Please visit these wonderful places:
For Sunday Morning worship: The Moody Church 1609 N LaSalle Street (at the tri-corner of Clark Street, North Avenue, and LaSalle Street). The website is: www.moodychurch.org
Senior Pastor, Dr Erwin Lutzer, and the saints at The Moody Church will give you a warm, hearty, and genuine welcome to be part of a historic congregation in the heart of the Windy City.
For a wonderful lunch:
The Signature Room on the 95th Floor of the John Hancock Building (North Michigan Avenue), the Buffet Lunch (Monday through Saturday) is about $18 and worth every penny of it. The fabulous view of the city alone is worth that price. And the food is scrumptious. And for really picky eaters, you can order from the menu.
And take the CTA buses and get a grand view of this spectacular city that I've called "home" now for almost six years.
Chicago: Home of the 2005 World Series Champion CHICAGO WHITE SOX!
Compassionate and Legal.....
With all the brouhaha about "illegal immigrants" and their so-called rights, I feel that I must weigh in on this one. I live in a largely Hispanic neighborhood here in Chicago, where I have bought my very first home. About 90% of my neighbors and the local businesses are Hispanic owned and operated. So I can speak somewhat knowledgeably about this issue. Here goes:
1) There is a RIGHT way to enter this country. Thousands enter this country the RIGHT way every year. And that rule should and MUST apply to everyone.
2) Anyone who enters this country illegally is breaking the laws of this land. We call that "crimes." Those are largely nonviolent crimes...but crimes nonetheless. And those crimes--and the people who commit them--should and must have consequences.
3) Businesses and employers who provide jobs (regardless of the wage structure of those jobs) to people who are not legally authorized to work in this country are committing crimes. Those crimes should and must have consequences as well. Regardless of who the employer is.
4) If someone wants to enter this country and become a permanent resident here, they should be STRONGLY encouraged to:
Learn the prevailing language of business and commerce: That would be ENGLISH.
Do everything possible to become a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Ensure that all family members/friends/etc understand that this is a nation of LAWS, and
those laws are not suggestions, nor arbitrary.
5) All 500,000 people who marched in Los Angeles last Saturday and Sunday are FREE to return to their "former countries" as far as I am concerned. If America is so great (and it is), then become an American, or at least come here legally. That means you will display the American flag when you are marching....not the Mexican flag, or from any other country. If you are so in love with your "native land"--then go back. It's that simple.
6) Our economy may take a few hits when we realize that obeying the labor laws is in our national interests both now and in the future. But the economy will rebound, and the nation will be better for it. As it stands now, we are setting ourselves up for a horrific tragedy from which we may never fully recover.
7) Our social and safety nets are there for a purpose. Empowering people to come and reside here illegally is NOT compassionate, socially responsible, or a good idea. We must become a people who respect the laws of this land again. And work to change those that are not compassionate, socially responsible or a good idea.
8) Every person who has ever come to this country LEGALLY from another land is being SLAPPED in the face by those who insist on coming here against the laws of this land. Tell the Pakistani taxi driver, or the Nigerian food service worker-- who has risked their lives to come here LEGALLY--that it can't be done. They have done it....Legally!
I am personally very tired of hearing about "we have the right to....." Because when you break the laws of the land, you have abdicated any privileges and rights that you may have otherwise eventually been able to obtain. No one has the right to break the IMMIGRATION laws of the United States of America, and get away with it.
It's that simple.
1) There is a RIGHT way to enter this country. Thousands enter this country the RIGHT way every year. And that rule should and MUST apply to everyone.
2) Anyone who enters this country illegally is breaking the laws of this land. We call that "crimes." Those are largely nonviolent crimes...but crimes nonetheless. And those crimes--and the people who commit them--should and must have consequences.
3) Businesses and employers who provide jobs (regardless of the wage structure of those jobs) to people who are not legally authorized to work in this country are committing crimes. Those crimes should and must have consequences as well. Regardless of who the employer is.
4) If someone wants to enter this country and become a permanent resident here, they should be STRONGLY encouraged to:
Learn the prevailing language of business and commerce: That would be ENGLISH.
Do everything possible to become a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Ensure that all family members/friends/etc understand that this is a nation of LAWS, and
those laws are not suggestions, nor arbitrary.
5) All 500,000 people who marched in Los Angeles last Saturday and Sunday are FREE to return to their "former countries" as far as I am concerned. If America is so great (and it is), then become an American, or at least come here legally. That means you will display the American flag when you are marching....not the Mexican flag, or from any other country. If you are so in love with your "native land"--then go back. It's that simple.
6) Our economy may take a few hits when we realize that obeying the labor laws is in our national interests both now and in the future. But the economy will rebound, and the nation will be better for it. As it stands now, we are setting ourselves up for a horrific tragedy from which we may never fully recover.
7) Our social and safety nets are there for a purpose. Empowering people to come and reside here illegally is NOT compassionate, socially responsible, or a good idea. We must become a people who respect the laws of this land again. And work to change those that are not compassionate, socially responsible or a good idea.
8) Every person who has ever come to this country LEGALLY from another land is being SLAPPED in the face by those who insist on coming here against the laws of this land. Tell the Pakistani taxi driver, or the Nigerian food service worker-- who has risked their lives to come here LEGALLY--that it can't be done. They have done it....Legally!
I am personally very tired of hearing about "we have the right to....." Because when you break the laws of the land, you have abdicated any privileges and rights that you may have otherwise eventually been able to obtain. No one has the right to break the IMMIGRATION laws of the United States of America, and get away with it.
It's that simple.
When It's All Said and Done....
A friend sent this to me a few days ago:
_________________________________
Ben Stein's Last Column...
For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called "Monday
Night At Morton's." (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be
frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now,
Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading
his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.
============================================
How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?
As I begin to write this, I "slug" it, as we writers say, which means I
put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is
"e-online FINAL," and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing
this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved
writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.
It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and
the world's change have overtaken it. On a small scale, Morton's, while
better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still
brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw
Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before
that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in
which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's
is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.
Beyond that, a bigger change has happened. I no longer think Hollywood
stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and
they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who
makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a
camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.
How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane
luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a "star" we mean someone
bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not
riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained
in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese
girls do their nails.
They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any
longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked
his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq. He could have been met
by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam
Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.
A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a
road north of Baghdad. He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him.
A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S.
soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded
ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her
aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family
desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad.
The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish
weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two
of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for
the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.
We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our
magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay
but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and
near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.
I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor
values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that
who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.
There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament...the policemen
and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they
will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who
have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and
nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children;
the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.
Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World
Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a
real hero.
I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that
matters. This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another
way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier
or as good a comic as Steve Martin...or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as
good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald.
Or even remotely close to any of them.
But I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above
all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to
be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well
with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared
for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my
father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered
immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.
This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers
in Iraq or the firefighters in New York. I came to realize that life lived
to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in
return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has
placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.
Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.
By Ben Stein
>
_________________________________
Ben Stein's Last Column...
For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called "Monday
Night At Morton's." (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be
frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now,
Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading
his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.
============================================
How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?
As I begin to write this, I "slug" it, as we writers say, which means I
put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is
"e-online FINAL," and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing
this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved
writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.
It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and
the world's change have overtaken it. On a small scale, Morton's, while
better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still
brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw
Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before
that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in
which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's
is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.
Beyond that, a bigger change has happened. I no longer think Hollywood
stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and
they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who
makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a
camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.
How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane
luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a "star" we mean someone
bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not
riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained
in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese
girls do their nails.
They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any
longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked
his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq. He could have been met
by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam
Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.
A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a
road north of Baghdad. He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him.
A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S.
soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded
ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her
aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family
desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad.
The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish
weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two
of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for
the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.
We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our
magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay
but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and
near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.
I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor
values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that
who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.
There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament...the policemen
and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they
will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who
have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and
nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children;
the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.
Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World
Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a
real hero.
I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that
matters. This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another
way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier
or as good a comic as Steve Martin...or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as
good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald.
Or even remotely close to any of them.
But I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above
all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to
be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well
with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared
for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my
father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered
immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.
This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers
in Iraq or the firefighters in New York. I came to realize that life lived
to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in
return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has
placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.
Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.
By Ben Stein
>
Happy Birthday to me!
There are few days in the calendar year that I expect someone to make a FUSS over me.
But my birthday is always one of them.
I was born on this date, 44 years ago in Huntsville, Alabama--and whew, what a ride it has been!
God has been good to me.
But my birthday is always one of them.
I was born on this date, 44 years ago in Huntsville, Alabama--and whew, what a ride it has been!
God has been good to me.
The Power of Words....
The last four months have been very difficult for me--on many different levels.
I've experienced firsthand the power of words to bless and heal, and conversely, the power of words to injure, wound, and destroy.
A man who was my pastor for more than 3 years called me some names that were not only unchristian, but untrue. I've not had a conversation with him now in almost four months. When he was confronted by another brother concerning this situation, this pastor claimed unmitigated innocence. Claiming to "love me"--but betraying those very claims with his own words. Those are the words that injure, wound, and destroy.
But a precious friend here continues to remind me of how very loved and special that I am--to their family and to God and His family. Those are the power of "healing words."
I want to use those "healing words" whenever and wherever possible.
I've experienced firsthand the power of words to bless and heal, and conversely, the power of words to injure, wound, and destroy.
A man who was my pastor for more than 3 years called me some names that were not only unchristian, but untrue. I've not had a conversation with him now in almost four months. When he was confronted by another brother concerning this situation, this pastor claimed unmitigated innocence. Claiming to "love me"--but betraying those very claims with his own words. Those are the words that injure, wound, and destroy.
But a precious friend here continues to remind me of how very loved and special that I am--to their family and to God and His family. Those are the power of "healing words."
I want to use those "healing words" whenever and wherever possible.
HEROES.....think about this...
The Bluegrass/Southern Gospel family group, The Isaacs (www.theisaacs.com) wrote and recorded a marvelous song a couple of years ago. It's called "Heroes."
This wonderful song talks about the "real heroes" in American society: those people who care for children with special needs--physical, emotional, and spiritual.
My next door neighbor is a single mom with a special needs child. He just turned 13 years old a few months ago...yet my neighbor loves his dearly. This song is for her:
Momma combs his hair and Daddy helps him brush his teeth
Day after day for thirty years the same routine
The special needs he lives with make life seem so unfair
But he thanks God every day
Because he knows Mom and Dad are there..
He's a hero and she's a hero
It doesn't matter that nobody knows their name
They keep on giving to make life worth living
Might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same
They tried for many years to have a baby of their own
But God knew a little girl who didn't have a home
Someone else's burden was their blessing in disguise
And now she's got a Mom and Daddy
there to hold her when she cries
Every single parent who must carry twice the load
And those who sacrifice to raise a child that's not their own
They dedicate their time
to make a difference in someone else's life
And in my eyes...
He's a hero, and she's a hero..
Does'nt matter if anyone knows their names....
They might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same.
Ain't it the truth?
This wonderful song talks about the "real heroes" in American society: those people who care for children with special needs--physical, emotional, and spiritual.
My next door neighbor is a single mom with a special needs child. He just turned 13 years old a few months ago...yet my neighbor loves his dearly. This song is for her:
Momma combs his hair and Daddy helps him brush his teeth
Day after day for thirty years the same routine
The special needs he lives with make life seem so unfair
But he thanks God every day
Because he knows Mom and Dad are there..
He's a hero and she's a hero
It doesn't matter that nobody knows their name
They keep on giving to make life worth living
Might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same
They tried for many years to have a baby of their own
But God knew a little girl who didn't have a home
Someone else's burden was their blessing in disguise
And now she's got a Mom and Daddy
there to hold her when she cries
Every single parent who must carry twice the load
And those who sacrifice to raise a child that's not their own
They dedicate their time
to make a difference in someone else's life
And in my eyes...
He's a hero, and she's a hero..
Does'nt matter if anyone knows their names....
They might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same.
Ain't it the truth?
"Abiding" on "Angel Lane"....Thanks OPRAH!
I happen to have the OPRAH show (www.oprah.com) on in my office right now. They are showing the many houses that the "Angel network" is building in the aftermath of the Katrina disaster last fall.
I know a preacher who will deride Oprah Winfrey every opportunity he gets. And I'm truly saddened for him because of his great disdain for this lady with whom he disagrees.
I don't agree with many of her "spiritual" positions either. Actually, I disagree with just about all of them...
But, I cannot ignore all the good that this lady who has worked hard, been generous, and become a household name, had done for the desperate and needy in the Gulf Coast area.
My only question would be: "How can the Church of Jesus Christ do the same thing?"
We have the resources. We have the people.
Now, do we have the heart?
That really is something to consider.
I know a preacher who will deride Oprah Winfrey every opportunity he gets. And I'm truly saddened for him because of his great disdain for this lady with whom he disagrees.
I don't agree with many of her "spiritual" positions either. Actually, I disagree with just about all of them...
But, I cannot ignore all the good that this lady who has worked hard, been generous, and become a household name, had done for the desperate and needy in the Gulf Coast area.
My only question would be: "How can the Church of Jesus Christ do the same thing?"
We have the resources. We have the people.
Now, do we have the heart?
That really is something to consider.
From My Kitchen.....It's YUMMY
Tomato/Red Pepper Soup
You will need:
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves of garlic, pressed OR 2 teaspoons chopped garlic (from the jar)
4-5 large red Bell peppers, halved, ribbed, and seeded
5 large tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups tomato juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
Directions:
1. In a large sauce pan, heat the oil and saute the onions and garlic over medium-low for five minutes while pan is covered. Set aside.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the bell peppers cut sides down, and flatted with palm of hand. Roast them for ten minutes under the broiler flame--skins will turn brown/black. Take them out of oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then place in a blender.
3. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the tomatoes cut sides down and broil them for ten minutes. Allow to cool and place them in the blender with red peppers.
4. Blend them into a fine puree.
5. Return the puree mixture to the sauce pan with the onions and garlic. Add tomato juice, and the remaining ingredients.
6. Simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes.
It is YUMMY!
And for my faithful readers, please tell me how you either LIKE or DIDN'T like this recipe.
You will need:
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves of garlic, pressed OR 2 teaspoons chopped garlic (from the jar)
4-5 large red Bell peppers, halved, ribbed, and seeded
5 large tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups tomato juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
Directions:
1. In a large sauce pan, heat the oil and saute the onions and garlic over medium-low for five minutes while pan is covered. Set aside.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the bell peppers cut sides down, and flatted with palm of hand. Roast them for ten minutes under the broiler flame--skins will turn brown/black. Take them out of oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then place in a blender.
3. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the tomatoes cut sides down and broil them for ten minutes. Allow to cool and place them in the blender with red peppers.
4. Blend them into a fine puree.
5. Return the puree mixture to the sauce pan with the onions and garlic. Add tomato juice, and the remaining ingredients.
6. Simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes.
It is YUMMY!
And for my faithful readers, please tell me how you either LIKE or DIDN'T like this recipe.
Family Matters...
Well, even though I try not to "self-indulge" here, I felt that I should share something very close to my heart today: Family.
I grew up without parents. My biological producers decided to divorce shortly after I arrived on the scene, and my paternal grandparents (mostly my Grandmother) accepted the laborious duty of making sure that I grew up reasonably sane.
But I've always considered the "church" my family. God's family is so very precious to me on so many levels.
Even though I do have biological relatives, we are close from a distance--and it works well for everyone involved.
Or at least it does for me.
Yet, the family of God--those wonderful Christians who know God as Father, Christ as Saviour and Forgiver--these people have been my family now for more than 37 years.
These are the people who loved and nurtured me, faithfully though imperfectly, as a teenager.
These are the same people who loved me, nurtured me, and cared for me as a backwards, bumbling, and completely broken college student.
The family of God made sure that I never slept out in the cold, or missed a meal because I didn't have access to food.
The family of God became even more precious to me when I entered the United States Air Force, moved away from familiar surroundings, and expanded my horizons--whether I liked it or not.
And I did like it. Very much.
I cannot overstate the importance of the "family"--God's family in my life.
How very precious these people are.
I grew up without parents. My biological producers decided to divorce shortly after I arrived on the scene, and my paternal grandparents (mostly my Grandmother) accepted the laborious duty of making sure that I grew up reasonably sane.
But I've always considered the "church" my family. God's family is so very precious to me on so many levels.
Even though I do have biological relatives, we are close from a distance--and it works well for everyone involved.
Or at least it does for me.
Yet, the family of God--those wonderful Christians who know God as Father, Christ as Saviour and Forgiver--these people have been my family now for more than 37 years.
These are the people who loved and nurtured me, faithfully though imperfectly, as a teenager.
These are the same people who loved me, nurtured me, and cared for me as a backwards, bumbling, and completely broken college student.
The family of God made sure that I never slept out in the cold, or missed a meal because I didn't have access to food.
The family of God became even more precious to me when I entered the United States Air Force, moved away from familiar surroundings, and expanded my horizons--whether I liked it or not.
And I did like it. Very much.
I cannot overstate the importance of the "family"--God's family in my life.
How very precious these people are.
Last night....I had a dream....
Last night...or very early this morning, I had a dream about someone whom I once considered a dear friend. A precious Christian brother, with whom I had tremendous fellowship for a while.
And due to some very terrible circumstances, our fellowship has been broken for a long time. I've not heard his voice for two years now. I've been rebuffed at every turn.
I often remember him, and wonder what I could have done, or could do even now to restore the fellowship that we once enjoyed.
I won't call names, but please pray for my friend. Pray for his safety, for his security, and for God our Heavenly Father to be close to him today.
Please.
And due to some very terrible circumstances, our fellowship has been broken for a long time. I've not heard his voice for two years now. I've been rebuffed at every turn.
I often remember him, and wonder what I could have done, or could do even now to restore the fellowship that we once enjoyed.
I won't call names, but please pray for my friend. Pray for his safety, for his security, and for God our Heavenly Father to be close to him today.
Please.
Happy Birthday, Kevin Moses!
In the Spring of 1997 I met one of the most amazing and godly people that I have ever known.
It was in the second semester of my Historical Theology course in seminary, that Kevin Moses and I became pals. He wasn't understanding everything that was being presented by the professor, and he asked if I would be willing to help him.
I said sure...and I'm glad that I did.
Later that week, Kevin came over to my apartment, and I just happen to be cooking. I asked if he would like to stay. He said "sure", and a deep friendship began that is still strong today.
Now 9 years later, Kevin and I have the strongest of friendships.
We were roommates for two years, less two months. We have traveled to California and New York City together--a first for him, and not for me.
His parents regard me as part of the family--and warm my soul every time I talk with them.
His wife Monica, is one of the most gifted and gracious people you would ever want to meet.
And Kevin turns 31 today!
Happy Birthday my precious friend.
It was in the second semester of my Historical Theology course in seminary, that Kevin Moses and I became pals. He wasn't understanding everything that was being presented by the professor, and he asked if I would be willing to help him.
I said sure...and I'm glad that I did.
Later that week, Kevin came over to my apartment, and I just happen to be cooking. I asked if he would like to stay. He said "sure", and a deep friendship began that is still strong today.
Now 9 years later, Kevin and I have the strongest of friendships.
We were roommates for two years, less two months. We have traveled to California and New York City together--a first for him, and not for me.
His parents regard me as part of the family--and warm my soul every time I talk with them.
His wife Monica, is one of the most gifted and gracious people you would ever want to meet.
And Kevin turns 31 today!
Happy Birthday my precious friend.
Who benefits from all of this?
In 2002 a major scandal erupted in the Roman Catholic Church here in the United States: Alleged sexual abuses, and worse yet, "cover ups" by the priests, archbishops, and cardinals who are responsible for "the church" here in the United States.
I'm not a Catholic. I never will be a Catholic, I'm pretty sure.
But I am concerned, and concerned on several levels.
If the "victims" were molested, violated, or abused in any way, why has it taken so long for them to come forward with their allegations?
I am not denying that sexual abuse ever happened in the Catholic Church, or in any other denomination for that matter. I'm sure it has, and it is sad indeed. And it should be dealt with here and now.
But what if the persons so accused are found to be "innocent" of the alleged abuses?
Who shepherds and cares for them? Who will be there to help them restore their lives? Who will be there to help them repair--if possible--their ministries and their personal reputations?
I am not denying the awful harm and the shame that surrounds those who have, in fact, been abused by people of the cloth, clergy and laity. It's shameful, it's illegal, and it should be dealt with. Now.
But, could some of this hullabaloo be about "money" and "anger" and other things?
For the sake of God's people--in every denomination--I pray the truth will come to light.
Sooner, rather than later.
I'm not a Catholic. I never will be a Catholic, I'm pretty sure.
But I am concerned, and concerned on several levels.
If the "victims" were molested, violated, or abused in any way, why has it taken so long for them to come forward with their allegations?
I am not denying that sexual abuse ever happened in the Catholic Church, or in any other denomination for that matter. I'm sure it has, and it is sad indeed. And it should be dealt with here and now.
But what if the persons so accused are found to be "innocent" of the alleged abuses?
Who shepherds and cares for them? Who will be there to help them restore their lives? Who will be there to help them repair--if possible--their ministries and their personal reputations?
I am not denying the awful harm and the shame that surrounds those who have, in fact, been abused by people of the cloth, clergy and laity. It's shameful, it's illegal, and it should be dealt with. Now.
But, could some of this hullabaloo be about "money" and "anger" and other things?
For the sake of God's people--in every denomination--I pray the truth will come to light.
Sooner, rather than later.
Living in 2006....
A friend recently sent this to me, via email. I thought it was pretty funny....and so very true.
*************************************************************
Subject: Living in 2006
YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2006 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )
12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this.
AND NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.
*************************************************************
Subject: Living in 2006
YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2006 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )
12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this.
AND NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.
Founder's Week 2006, Moody Bible Institute
http://www.foundersweek.org/defau1t.asp?SectionID=678AE4557481408D8E90682031C263D5
For many years, before I ever lived here in the Windy City, I listened to the Annual Founder's Week Conference, hosted by the Moody Bible Institute. It has always blest my soul, and encouraged me.
This is one of the premier Bible Conferences in the United States.
And thanks to modern technology, you can listen live over the Internet.
Check it out!
For many years, before I ever lived here in the Windy City, I listened to the Annual Founder's Week Conference, hosted by the Moody Bible Institute. It has always blest my soul, and encouraged me.
This is one of the premier Bible Conferences in the United States.
And thanks to modern technology, you can listen live over the Internet.
Check it out!
Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Alito
Justice Alito has been confirmed and sworn in as the nation's 110th Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States of America.
The 58-42 vote is one of the closest in judicial confirmation history. The rancorous debate is now over, thank the Lord.
He is replacing the now-retired Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor--the magnanimous, dignified, and marvelous lady whose legacy as the first lady to serve on the nation's highest court is now firmly minted.
She was often considered the "swing vote." I remember very well when the late President Ronald Reagan nominated her to be the first woman on the Supreme Court. She has served with clarity, dignity, and infintissimal sense of personal responsibility and class.
Now, let's pray that Justice Alito will follow in those same gracious, responsible, and dignified footsteps.
Let's pray that God would grant him the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job, and the clarity of Jesus in all that he is called to do.
He will need it, for sure.
The 58-42 vote is one of the closest in judicial confirmation history. The rancorous debate is now over, thank the Lord.
He is replacing the now-retired Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor--the magnanimous, dignified, and marvelous lady whose legacy as the first lady to serve on the nation's highest court is now firmly minted.
She was often considered the "swing vote." I remember very well when the late President Ronald Reagan nominated her to be the first woman on the Supreme Court. She has served with clarity, dignity, and infintissimal sense of personal responsibility and class.
Now, let's pray that Justice Alito will follow in those same gracious, responsible, and dignified footsteps.
Let's pray that God would grant him the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job, and the clarity of Jesus in all that he is called to do.
He will need it, for sure.
Caffeine Free--30 Days and Counting...
My good friend, Pastor Travis Bodden (we were Air Force buddies together in West Texas, aeons ago), challenged me--back in 1994--to give up Caffeine.
Now almost twelve years later, I've taken him upon on the challenge.
I am now 30 days without caffeine in any form. No coffee, no Mountain Dews--which I dearly loved, and no chocolate--what was I thinking? LOL
I feel great. I have lots of energy. I am sleeping very well.
I am saving money, and I've dropped a few pounds.
Actually, I'm pretty amazed that I've lasted this long, and pretty proud of myself.
Now almost twelve years later, I've taken him upon on the challenge.
I am now 30 days without caffeine in any form. No coffee, no Mountain Dews--which I dearly loved, and no chocolate--what was I thinking? LOL
I feel great. I have lots of energy. I am sleeping very well.
I am saving money, and I've dropped a few pounds.
Actually, I'm pretty amazed that I've lasted this long, and pretty proud of myself.
Thank you, Tony Campolo!
In my opinion, Dr Tony Campolo is a real "prophet" for this generation. I have read almost all of his books, have heard him speak a couple of times, and have grown tremendously in my worldview. He recently spoke at some type of Presbyterian meeting in Mississippi. Here's the report of what he said:
________________________
Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal:
"What should you buy for someone who has everything? Nothing!" Dr. Campolo said in the keynote address at St. Andrew Presbytery's "Tapestry" training event. "But we just came through Christmas, and you didn't have the guts to pull it off, did you?"
"A whole generation is being seduced by consumerism into a lifestyle diametrically opposed to Christian values," he said, lamenting that even education is sold as a way to make more money to buy more consumer goods."No!" he thundered, invoking Paul's admonition to Timothy. "An education is 'to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Campolo challenged audience members to aim for doing the most good, not having the most comfortable life. He recalled a former student of his who announced she had won a teaching position in a rich suburban school system over 200 other applicants."That's too bad," he told her, noting thousands of students in Philadelphia would fail because their inner-city schools were 600 teachers short. "Why would you spend your life where you aren't needed?"
Comfortable religion joins consumerism in killing the passion of youths, Campolo said. He told the largely Presbyterian audience that their denomination "is dying - losing its young people - not because we've made Christianity too hard for them, but because we've made it too easy.
"Youth was made for heroism, not pleasure," he said. "Jesus calls people to die to self."One of the ways he challenged those present to "die to self" was by not attacking worship music that appealed to others. A change from traditional to contemporary praise, Campolo said, had mushroomed attendance at Eastern University's chapel services. "I don't understand praise music. I don't get it," he said. "But those kids get it. Don't criticize what you don't understand. We've been singing your stuff for a thousand years."
Campolo said some critics have labeled the Christianity he preaches - that eschews war and supports the poor and demands a life sacrificed to the service of others - "dangerous.""When did Christianity cease being dangerous?" he asked.
"That's when it ceased being Christianity."
_____________________________________________
Dr Campolo, you've given this child of God much, much, much to think about!
Thank you! Thank you!
________________________
Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal:
"What should you buy for someone who has everything? Nothing!" Dr. Campolo said in the keynote address at St. Andrew Presbytery's "Tapestry" training event. "But we just came through Christmas, and you didn't have the guts to pull it off, did you?"
"A whole generation is being seduced by consumerism into a lifestyle diametrically opposed to Christian values," he said, lamenting that even education is sold as a way to make more money to buy more consumer goods."No!" he thundered, invoking Paul's admonition to Timothy. "An education is 'to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Campolo challenged audience members to aim for doing the most good, not having the most comfortable life. He recalled a former student of his who announced she had won a teaching position in a rich suburban school system over 200 other applicants."That's too bad," he told her, noting thousands of students in Philadelphia would fail because their inner-city schools were 600 teachers short. "Why would you spend your life where you aren't needed?"
Comfortable religion joins consumerism in killing the passion of youths, Campolo said. He told the largely Presbyterian audience that their denomination "is dying - losing its young people - not because we've made Christianity too hard for them, but because we've made it too easy.
"Youth was made for heroism, not pleasure," he said. "Jesus calls people to die to self."One of the ways he challenged those present to "die to self" was by not attacking worship music that appealed to others. A change from traditional to contemporary praise, Campolo said, had mushroomed attendance at Eastern University's chapel services. "I don't understand praise music. I don't get it," he said. "But those kids get it. Don't criticize what you don't understand. We've been singing your stuff for a thousand years."
Campolo said some critics have labeled the Christianity he preaches - that eschews war and supports the poor and demands a life sacrificed to the service of others - "dangerous.""When did Christianity cease being dangerous?" he asked.
"That's when it ceased being Christianity."
_____________________________________________
Dr Campolo, you've given this child of God much, much, much to think about!
Thank you! Thank you!
A Passion for the Church....
Dr Erwin W Lutzer, Senior Pastor, The Moody Church here in Chicago has been preaching from 1 Corinthians 12-14 on the theme "A Passion for the Church."
It has been very informative, very inspiring, and very edifying.
Having been part of the "church" since I was only 6 years old, I feel that I can write and speak with some degree of credibility and experience on what it means to "be the Church."
It seems that everyone is up in arms about how we "do church"....worship styles, preaching methods, assimilation techniques, evangelism programs....ad infinitum.
But how many of us really think about how to "be the Church" to each other, and to a watching world that pays more attention to us than we are ready to admit?
What does it mean to "be the Church" in 2006?
I have some ideas, and I don't think they are too far off-base at all:
1) It means that we get to the place where "great grace is upon them all..." (Acts 4:33).
2) To "be the Church" today means that we are more concerned about being a "community of faith" instead of just a "collection of individuals."
3) "Being the Church" means that we are less concerned with our "power struggles" and how much "authority" we may have...and more concerned with how God is forming us for His glory, so that He can fill us with His power for His purposes.
4) To "be the Church" means that we give people "due process." We protect those we like, and those we may not be so fond of...and we do it with an openness and evenhandedness that favoritism can never become part of the equation.
5) To "be the Church" means that we become people of God's Word. We study it, live it, rightly divide it, and hide it in our hearts.
So what does it mean to be the Church, in your opinion?
It has been very informative, very inspiring, and very edifying.
Having been part of the "church" since I was only 6 years old, I feel that I can write and speak with some degree of credibility and experience on what it means to "be the Church."
It seems that everyone is up in arms about how we "do church"....worship styles, preaching methods, assimilation techniques, evangelism programs....ad infinitum.
But how many of us really think about how to "be the Church" to each other, and to a watching world that pays more attention to us than we are ready to admit?
What does it mean to "be the Church" in 2006?
I have some ideas, and I don't think they are too far off-base at all:
1) It means that we get to the place where "great grace is upon them all..." (Acts 4:33).
2) To "be the Church" today means that we are more concerned about being a "community of faith" instead of just a "collection of individuals."
3) "Being the Church" means that we are less concerned with our "power struggles" and how much "authority" we may have...and more concerned with how God is forming us for His glory, so that He can fill us with His power for His purposes.
4) To "be the Church" means that we give people "due process." We protect those we like, and those we may not be so fond of...and we do it with an openness and evenhandedness that favoritism can never become part of the equation.
5) To "be the Church" means that we become people of God's Word. We study it, live it, rightly divide it, and hide it in our hearts.
So what does it mean to be the Church, in your opinion?
So, what are you saying?
Dr Gary Chapman, noted author, psychologist, and minister released a book several years ago, "The Five Love Languages".
What is/are your love language(s)?
Do you know?
Here's the website:
www.fivelovelanguages.com
Check it out.
What say ye?
What is/are your love language(s)?
Do you know?
Here's the website:
www.fivelovelanguages.com
Check it out.
What say ye?
This thing called "Love"
A good friend of mine compiled this list of "love" characteristics. He compiled them for use in a men's small group setting. I wanted to share them here:
Love must be observable
John 13:34 - "A New command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Continuing, consistent love results in joy
John 15:9-13 - "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command in this: Love each other as I have loved you."
Love admits or takes one another in, includes others
Romans 15:7 - "Accept (receive) one another, then just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God"
Purification precedes sincere love
1 Peter 1:22 -"Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart."
Deliberate love does not expose someone else's sin
1 Peter 4:8 -"Above all, love each other deeply (fervently), because love covers over a multitude of sins."
Love includes mutual affection
2 Corinthians 6:11-13 -"We have spoken freely to you Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange I speak as to my children - open wide your hearts also."
Love is not exclusive, our hearts can expand to include others, Love expresses approval, Love desires to be with the loved one
2 Corinthians 7:2-6 -"Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one. I do not say this to condemn you; I have said before that you have such a place in our hearts that we would live or die with you. I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds. For when we came to Macedonia, this body of our had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn - conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever."
Love is verbalized
2 Corinthians 2:4 -"For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you."
Love worries
2 Corinthians 2:12-13 -"Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found that the Lord had opened a door for me, I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said good-by to them and went on to Macedonia."
Loving the world leaves no time for loving others
1 John 2:15-17 -"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world - the cravings of sinful man, the lust of the eyes and the boasting of what he has and does - comes not from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
Your love reveals your father
1 John 3:10 -"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are; Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother."
God's presence is in our love
1 John 4:11-12 -"Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us."
If you don't love your brother, you don't love God
1 John 4:19-21 -"We love because he first loved us. If anyone says "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother."
Love considers how to love even more, Love equals Time
Hebrews 10:24-25 -"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Love is sincere, committed, humble
Romans 12:9-10 -"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."
Christ bought our freedom to love
Galations 5:13 -"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love."
Love must be observable
John 13:34 - "A New command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Continuing, consistent love results in joy
John 15:9-13 - "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command in this: Love each other as I have loved you."
Love admits or takes one another in, includes others
Romans 15:7 - "Accept (receive) one another, then just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God"
Purification precedes sincere love
1 Peter 1:22 -"Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart."
Deliberate love does not expose someone else's sin
1 Peter 4:8 -"Above all, love each other deeply (fervently), because love covers over a multitude of sins."
Love includes mutual affection
2 Corinthians 6:11-13 -"We have spoken freely to you Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange I speak as to my children - open wide your hearts also."
Love is not exclusive, our hearts can expand to include others, Love expresses approval, Love desires to be with the loved one
2 Corinthians 7:2-6 -"Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one. I do not say this to condemn you; I have said before that you have such a place in our hearts that we would live or die with you. I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds. For when we came to Macedonia, this body of our had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn - conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever."
Love is verbalized
2 Corinthians 2:4 -"For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you."
Love worries
2 Corinthians 2:12-13 -"Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found that the Lord had opened a door for me, I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said good-by to them and went on to Macedonia."
Loving the world leaves no time for loving others
1 John 2:15-17 -"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world - the cravings of sinful man, the lust of the eyes and the boasting of what he has and does - comes not from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
Your love reveals your father
1 John 3:10 -"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are; Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother."
God's presence is in our love
1 John 4:11-12 -"Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us."
If you don't love your brother, you don't love God
1 John 4:19-21 -"We love because he first loved us. If anyone says "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother."
Love considers how to love even more, Love equals Time
Hebrews 10:24-25 -"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Love is sincere, committed, humble
Romans 12:9-10 -"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."
Christ bought our freedom to love
Galations 5:13 -"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love."
When It's all said and done....
I made a big mistakes several days ago.
Someone whom I consider a friend (and Christian brother) read a post from mid-November, and he didn't like what I had written about a very ugly and unkind encounter at Chicago Tabernacle, where I was part of the congregation for more than three years.
This person is now on the pastoral staff of that congregation.
I saw him, by accident on Christmas Day, at a mutual friend's home. The first thing he said to me was that he was "upset" about my blog, and that I should delete the post about my ill-treatment from the Senior Pastor. I told him that I would delete the post.
I never should have made such a commitment.
I deleted that post, even though every word of it was true.
That person, hasn't made any movement towards contacting me since that day, even though he said that he wanted me back in the congregation, and that this "situation" could be resolved.
I was hurt, accused, and mislead---with no truth being represented anywhere on the part of the ones who mislead, accused or injured me.
So what am I to do?
Someone whom I consider a friend (and Christian brother) read a post from mid-November, and he didn't like what I had written about a very ugly and unkind encounter at Chicago Tabernacle, where I was part of the congregation for more than three years.
This person is now on the pastoral staff of that congregation.
I saw him, by accident on Christmas Day, at a mutual friend's home. The first thing he said to me was that he was "upset" about my blog, and that I should delete the post about my ill-treatment from the Senior Pastor. I told him that I would delete the post.
I never should have made such a commitment.
I deleted that post, even though every word of it was true.
That person, hasn't made any movement towards contacting me since that day, even though he said that he wanted me back in the congregation, and that this "situation" could be resolved.
I was hurt, accused, and mislead---with no truth being represented anywhere on the part of the ones who mislead, accused or injured me.
So what am I to do?
It's much easier to:
Make hasty judgments about brothers and sisters in Christ than it is to get to know them well, and find out that your "judgments" were wrong.
Do your "work" from home: Shopping, Bill-paying, emailing, etc than it is to actually have to "deal" with real human beings who have real faces, real emotions, and real personalities. After all, isn't it "all about you" anyway?
Preach a powerful message on the love-relationships that Christ calls us to in His Kingdom, but far more difficult to "live out" those same relationships--particularly with folk who don't always "march to our drumbeat."
Be a "collection of individuals" than it is to be a "community of faith." Being a "community of faith" means that we actually have to create commonalities, and be committed to one another--And not just on Sundays either.
Interact with someone in the "worldwideweb" than it is to actually "face" that person, and encounter the emotions/will/physical form and real presence of another human being. After all, we can just "click" or "delete" or "forward" whatever we don't like, right?
Do your "work" from home: Shopping, Bill-paying, emailing, etc than it is to actually have to "deal" with real human beings who have real faces, real emotions, and real personalities. After all, isn't it "all about you" anyway?
Preach a powerful message on the love-relationships that Christ calls us to in His Kingdom, but far more difficult to "live out" those same relationships--particularly with folk who don't always "march to our drumbeat."
Be a "collection of individuals" than it is to be a "community of faith." Being a "community of faith" means that we actually have to create commonalities, and be committed to one another--And not just on Sundays either.
Interact with someone in the "worldwideweb" than it is to actually "face" that person, and encounter the emotions/will/physical form and real presence of another human being. After all, we can just "click" or "delete" or "forward" whatever we don't like, right?
Some of my favorite lyrics...
Gloria Gaither continues to be one of my favorite poets of all time. She, along with her husband Bill, has penned some of the most powerful songs in the last fifty years. And almost thirty years ago, Gloria penned these timeless words:
Hold tight to the sound of the music of living
-Happy songs from the laughter of children at play;
Hold my hand as we run through the sweet fragrant meadows,
Making mem'ries of what was today.
Tiny voice that I hear is my little girl calling
For Daddy to hear just what she has to say;
And my little son running there down the hillside,
May never be quite like today.
Tender words, gentle touch, and a good cup of coffee,
And someone that loves me and wants me to stay;
Hold them near while they're here, and don't wait for tomorrow
To look back and wish for today.
Take the blue of the sky and the green of the forest,
The gold and the brown of the freshly-mown hay,
Add the pale shades of spring and the circus of autumn,
And weave you a lovely today.
For we have this moment to hold in our hands,
And to touch as it slips through our fingers like sand;
Yesterday's gone, and tomorrow may never come,
But we have this moment, today.
- Lyrics by Gloria Gaither. Music by William J. Gaither. © 1975 William J. Gaither.
Hold tight to the sound of the music of living
-Happy songs from the laughter of children at play;
Hold my hand as we run through the sweet fragrant meadows,
Making mem'ries of what was today.
Tiny voice that I hear is my little girl calling
For Daddy to hear just what she has to say;
And my little son running there down the hillside,
May never be quite like today.
Tender words, gentle touch, and a good cup of coffee,
And someone that loves me and wants me to stay;
Hold them near while they're here, and don't wait for tomorrow
To look back and wish for today.
Take the blue of the sky and the green of the forest,
The gold and the brown of the freshly-mown hay,
Add the pale shades of spring and the circus of autumn,
And weave you a lovely today.
For we have this moment to hold in our hands,
And to touch as it slips through our fingers like sand;
Yesterday's gone, and tomorrow may never come,
But we have this moment, today.
- Lyrics by Gloria Gaither. Music by William J. Gaither. © 1975 William J. Gaither.
We do indeed have "this moment today." I'm often reminded of what James 4 tells us that our life is but a vapor, and then it is gone.
So what kind of vapor is my life? Just what scent does it emit? What fragrance (or stench) would someone encounter when they interact with me?
Yes Gloria, I do have "this moment today."
Thanks for blessing my life, and our world with your extraordinary gifts.
Living Free....sounds good to me!
My counsel is this: Live freely, animated and motivated by God's Spirit. Then you won't feed the compulsions of selfishness. For there is a root of sinful self-interest in us that is at odds with a free spirit, just as the free spirit is incompatible with selfishness. These two ways of life are antithetical, so that you cannot live at times one way and at times another way according to how you feel on any given day. Why don't you choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence?
It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.
This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.
But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard--things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good--crucified.
Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.
*******************************************
From The Message, Galatians Chapter 5: 20ff
It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.
This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.
But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard--things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good--crucified.
Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.
*******************************************
From The Message, Galatians Chapter 5: 20ff
Truly Gifted Communicator: ANDY STANLEY
The first time I ever heard Andy Stanley preach was more than 20 years ago when I was visiting First Baptist Church, Atlanta--and his father Charles Stanley was out with a sprained back.
I had traveled more than 100 miles and wanted to hear Dr Stanley....again. I was very disappointed.
But once this great "youth pastor" got up to preach--I almost forgot that it was his dad that I had come to hear! "Andy" just knocked me over with a feather! What a great preacher.
Fast Forward some 17 years later, and Andy was one of the featured speakers for 2003 Founder's Week at the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago. And WOW! What a great sermon...what a great message...what a great communicator of the greatest message ever told: The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Andy Stanley is the Senior Pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Here's the link to their website:
http://www.northpoint.org/sermons
Several of my friends from the college days (now more than 20 years ago) are faithful members of North Point Church.
I can easily understand why.
I had traveled more than 100 miles and wanted to hear Dr Stanley....again. I was very disappointed.
But once this great "youth pastor" got up to preach--I almost forgot that it was his dad that I had come to hear! "Andy" just knocked me over with a feather! What a great preacher.
Fast Forward some 17 years later, and Andy was one of the featured speakers for 2003 Founder's Week at the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago. And WOW! What a great sermon...what a great message...what a great communicator of the greatest message ever told: The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Andy Stanley is the Senior Pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Here's the link to their website:
http://www.northpoint.org/sermons
Several of my friends from the college days (now more than 20 years ago) are faithful members of North Point Church.
I can easily understand why.
2006: The Year of the "Real Deal" or Is it?
Two-Thousand Five was quite the year:
The "Ladies' Trio" (Katrina, Rita, and Wilma) all slamming into the southern shores of this nation, and showing America (and the entire watching world) how woefully unprepared every level of government in our magnificently blest country is for such catastrophic events.
Indictments from just about every corner of the country--conservatives, liberals, in-betweens, and all the rest. So maybe the "Holier-than-you" crowd wasn't so holy after all, huh? We will indeed reap what we sow. At least that's what Galatians Chapter 6 said when I read it recently.
And so, now we have to ask "What is the real deal?"
And I'm still asking that.
I sat under the ministry of a person who was fond of using the phrase "the real deal" quite often. I even labeled him "the real-deal Pastor" one time when describing him to a friend of mine.
Recent events have caused me to journey along the road of "uncertainty" again--and particularly where certain persons are concerned. I'm not convinced they are the "real deal" after all.
And if they are, their actions--and lack of action--have certainly betrayed them.
Yet we know that our Heavenly Father sees everything, understands everything, and will ultimately judge everything.
At least that's what Hebrews Chapter Four tells me.
And when that time comes, it will be
THE REAL DEAL.
The "Ladies' Trio" (Katrina, Rita, and Wilma) all slamming into the southern shores of this nation, and showing America (and the entire watching world) how woefully unprepared every level of government in our magnificently blest country is for such catastrophic events.
Indictments from just about every corner of the country--conservatives, liberals, in-betweens, and all the rest. So maybe the "Holier-than-you" crowd wasn't so holy after all, huh? We will indeed reap what we sow. At least that's what Galatians Chapter 6 said when I read it recently.
And so, now we have to ask "What is the real deal?"
And I'm still asking that.
I sat under the ministry of a person who was fond of using the phrase "the real deal" quite often. I even labeled him "the real-deal Pastor" one time when describing him to a friend of mine.
Recent events have caused me to journey along the road of "uncertainty" again--and particularly where certain persons are concerned. I'm not convinced they are the "real deal" after all.
And if they are, their actions--and lack of action--have certainly betrayed them.
Yet we know that our Heavenly Father sees everything, understands everything, and will ultimately judge everything.
At least that's what Hebrews Chapter Four tells me.
And when that time comes, it will be
THE REAL DEAL.
Some things that I've learned....
H Jackson Brown Jr has compiled a terric little book, Live and Learn and Pass It On.
Here are some things that people from ages 5 to 95 have shared about life, love, and other stuff. I've only chosen a few:
I've learned that old women can get away with just about anything.
I've learned that failures always blame someone else.
I've learned that the important thing is now what others think of me...but what I think of me.
I've learned that my worst decisions were made when I was angry.
I've learned that meeting interesting people depends less on where you go than on who you are.
I've learned that no one is ever so powerful or successful that they don't appreciate a sincere compliment.
I've learned that comfortable shoes are a MUST..always.
I've learned that a woman would rather be complimented about her intelligence than her looks.
I've learned that you can never have too many smart people in your life.
I've learned that I still cannot eat an Oreo without first opening it up and licking off the filling.
I've learned that the best tranquilizer is a clear conscience
Here are some things that people from ages 5 to 95 have shared about life, love, and other stuff. I've only chosen a few:
I've learned that old women can get away with just about anything.
I've learned that failures always blame someone else.
I've learned that the important thing is now what others think of me...but what I think of me.
I've learned that my worst decisions were made when I was angry.
I've learned that meeting interesting people depends less on where you go than on who you are.
I've learned that no one is ever so powerful or successful that they don't appreciate a sincere compliment.
I've learned that comfortable shoes are a MUST..always.
I've learned that a woman would rather be complimented about her intelligence than her looks.
I've learned that you can never have too many smart people in your life.
I've learned that I still cannot eat an Oreo without first opening it up and licking off the filling.
I've learned that the best tranquilizer is a clear conscience
When it's all said and done....
2005 has been a remarkable year in so many ways.
As a nation, we have:
Watched the horror of almost 1/4 million people rush into eternity from the death-wielding power of the tsunami in Asia.
Watched several million people become homeless (though temporarily for many) on our own shores here with Hurricane Katrina--who didn't bother discriminating on racial, economic, religious, or educational terms.
Watched the face of the United States Supreme Court change: Welcoming our new Chief Justice John Roberts, bidding a very sad adieu to the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist, and the soon-to-be retirement of the first lady to ever don the robes of the Nation's highest judiciary, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Watched the indictment of Lewis "Scooter" Libby, the Chief of Staff for the Vice President of the United States on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.
Mourned the death of Peter Jennings--one of the truly great journalists and news anchors of my lifetime.
Mourned the death of Pope John Paul II--one of the truly marvelous religious and political figures of my life time.
Watched the selection and coronation of Pope Benedict XVI-- God's "rottweiler" has now become the German Shepherd. And time will tell...indeed.
Mourned the death of more than 2000 uniformed service personnel who have answered the call of the Commander in Chief--whether rightly or wrongly.
Celebrated the CHICAGO WHITE SOX as the 2005 World Series Champions in Baseball--the first time in 88 years!
It's been quite a year. And when it's all said and done, what will all this mean to us?
Time will tell, I'm sure.
As a nation, we have:
Watched the horror of almost 1/4 million people rush into eternity from the death-wielding power of the tsunami in Asia.
Watched several million people become homeless (though temporarily for many) on our own shores here with Hurricane Katrina--who didn't bother discriminating on racial, economic, religious, or educational terms.
Watched the face of the United States Supreme Court change: Welcoming our new Chief Justice John Roberts, bidding a very sad adieu to the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist, and the soon-to-be retirement of the first lady to ever don the robes of the Nation's highest judiciary, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Watched the indictment of Lewis "Scooter" Libby, the Chief of Staff for the Vice President of the United States on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.
Mourned the death of Peter Jennings--one of the truly great journalists and news anchors of my lifetime.
Mourned the death of Pope John Paul II--one of the truly marvelous religious and political figures of my life time.
Watched the selection and coronation of Pope Benedict XVI-- God's "rottweiler" has now become the German Shepherd. And time will tell...indeed.
Mourned the death of more than 2000 uniformed service personnel who have answered the call of the Commander in Chief--whether rightly or wrongly.
Celebrated the CHICAGO WHITE SOX as the 2005 World Series Champions in Baseball--the first time in 88 years!
It's been quite a year. And when it's all said and done, what will all this mean to us?
Time will tell, I'm sure.
The end of an era: PETRA retires...
Petra Retires
Christian Rock Pioneers Say Goodbye After 33 Strong Years
Nashville, TN - After 33 years of music and ministry, Christian rock pioneer PETRA will come to a close. December 2005 will mark the end to a ministry that has boldly and consistently proclaimed the gospel in the United States and abroad. The decision to retire the band was mutual by all members.
"It has been a privilege and honor to represent our Savior and participate in His Great Commission. We have nothing but thanks to God for all He has done," says PETRA founder, guitarist and primary songwriter Bob Hartman.
"God used PETRA in my life in so many ways, as He did in so many other lives," says lead singer since 1986, John Schlitt. "I am truly thankful for having been part of PETRA. We've had a good long run and have seen so much. We've seen God's hand at work in our music on every continent and in every language," he says.
The band has impacted generations of musicians and fans alike over the years with over seven million CDs sold, four Grammy Awards, 10 Dove Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. PETRA, initially formed in 1972 by Hartman on vocals and guitars, paved the way for the rock genre perhaps more than any other in the Christian music industry. Though a rotating cast of musicians comprised PETRA's lineup over the years, the band is closing 2005 strong with over 20 albums to its credit, the latest being the 2003 Grammy-nominated Jekyll & Hyde.
At present, Schlitt and Hartman have made no immediate plans for the future.
"I'm not sure what the future will bring for me," says Schlitt, "but when God chooses to show us His will, then we just go in faith and walk in faith toward Him. He has never let us down, and He never will."
There are currently talks of a live album or box set to release in the future. Final PETRA tours in the United States and Europe are in the planning stages. There will be no further concerts booked after this year.
"PETRA has always been one of the biggest names in Christian rock," says Inpop Records President Wes Campbell. "PETRA's contributions to our industry are innumerable, and the band was very instrumental in the beginning stages of newsboys career. We are honored to have supported PETRA in its ministry and music," he says.
_____________________________
Taken from their website : http://www.petraband.com/
One of their greatest songs, in my opinion became popular when I was a teenager (back in the late 70s). It is taken from Romans Chapter Eight. The title, "Why Should the Father Bother"
Why should the Father Bother to call us His children?
Why should the Spirit Hear it when we pray?
Why should the Father Bother to be concerned with all our needs?
It's all because of what the Son has done.
Once we were lost out on the ocean
With no direction or devotion
Tossed about by every wind and wave
Now we are in the world, not of it,
And we can surely rise above it
Because the Lord has risen from the grave!
And we cry, 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father', 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father', 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father'
Once were strangers from the promise
We were doubters worse than Thomas
'Til the Spirit opened up our eyes
Now He has offered us adoption
And we have taken up the option
To be His family eternally!
Thank you PETRA for ministering to my heart multitudes of times through the last 30+ years. Only Heaven will reveal how the Father used you to speak His truth to me.
Christian Rock Pioneers Say Goodbye After 33 Strong Years
Nashville, TN - After 33 years of music and ministry, Christian rock pioneer PETRA will come to a close. December 2005 will mark the end to a ministry that has boldly and consistently proclaimed the gospel in the United States and abroad. The decision to retire the band was mutual by all members.
"It has been a privilege and honor to represent our Savior and participate in His Great Commission. We have nothing but thanks to God for all He has done," says PETRA founder, guitarist and primary songwriter Bob Hartman.
"God used PETRA in my life in so many ways, as He did in so many other lives," says lead singer since 1986, John Schlitt. "I am truly thankful for having been part of PETRA. We've had a good long run and have seen so much. We've seen God's hand at work in our music on every continent and in every language," he says.
The band has impacted generations of musicians and fans alike over the years with over seven million CDs sold, four Grammy Awards, 10 Dove Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. PETRA, initially formed in 1972 by Hartman on vocals and guitars, paved the way for the rock genre perhaps more than any other in the Christian music industry. Though a rotating cast of musicians comprised PETRA's lineup over the years, the band is closing 2005 strong with over 20 albums to its credit, the latest being the 2003 Grammy-nominated Jekyll & Hyde.
At present, Schlitt and Hartman have made no immediate plans for the future.
"I'm not sure what the future will bring for me," says Schlitt, "but when God chooses to show us His will, then we just go in faith and walk in faith toward Him. He has never let us down, and He never will."
There are currently talks of a live album or box set to release in the future. Final PETRA tours in the United States and Europe are in the planning stages. There will be no further concerts booked after this year.
"PETRA has always been one of the biggest names in Christian rock," says Inpop Records President Wes Campbell. "PETRA's contributions to our industry are innumerable, and the band was very instrumental in the beginning stages of newsboys career. We are honored to have supported PETRA in its ministry and music," he says.
_____________________________
Taken from their website : http://www.petraband.com/
One of their greatest songs, in my opinion became popular when I was a teenager (back in the late 70s). It is taken from Romans Chapter Eight. The title, "Why Should the Father Bother"
Why should the Father Bother to call us His children?
Why should the Spirit Hear it when we pray?
Why should the Father Bother to be concerned with all our needs?
It's all because of what the Son has done.
Once we were lost out on the ocean
With no direction or devotion
Tossed about by every wind and wave
Now we are in the world, not of it,
And we can surely rise above it
Because the Lord has risen from the grave!
And we cry, 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father', 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father', 'Abba, Father'
'Abba, Father'
Once were strangers from the promise
We were doubters worse than Thomas
'Til the Spirit opened up our eyes
Now He has offered us adoption
And we have taken up the option
To be His family eternally!
Thank you PETRA for ministering to my heart multitudes of times through the last 30+ years. Only Heaven will reveal how the Father used you to speak His truth to me.
An 'Uphill Climb"
My great friend singer/songwriter Janet Paschal has battled breast cancer this year. I've posted updates on her a few times here. And according to her website, it seems like she has "beaten" it. Praise, Praise! (www.janetpaschal.com)
In one of her latest recordings, she sings a song that she and Joel Lindsey wrote, entitled Uphill Climb. Here are the words:
She's sitting by the window when he walks into the room
Holding twelve red roses in full bloom
He puts them in her arms and says, "I love you so..
Happy Anniversary from sixty years ago..."
She turns to softly ask him for his name..
A tear rolls down his check and then he whispers it again...
Sometimes love is an uphill climb
It's a lonely road to follow
It's a heavy load to bear
Sometimes love is very patient and kind,
But sometimes love is an uphill climb.
He made it look so easy, he made his coaches proud
He played his best and stood out from the crowd.
They gave him every honor
The highest to be had..
And he'd run home excited to show his Dad..
But some things he would learn to live without..
Because love just wasn't something his father talked about.
Sometimes love is an uphill climb
It's a lonely road to follow
It's a heavy load to bear.
Sometimes love is very patient and kind,
But sometimes love is an uphill climb.
Winners and losers,
The used and the users at the edge of the town
Fathers and mothers, sons and brothers
gathering around...
Some were there to mock the Stranger
Some were there to mourn the loss
But everybody watched as He picked up the wooden cross.
Sometimes love is an uphill climb....
(2004 by Maplesong Music/ASCAP).
Janet got it right....because God showed us His great love....by coming to live among us, and showing us what "life" really is like. He then climbed a hill--and gave us the eternal opportunity to really live.
We can do no less.
Blessings this day.
In one of her latest recordings, she sings a song that she and Joel Lindsey wrote, entitled Uphill Climb. Here are the words:
She's sitting by the window when he walks into the room
Holding twelve red roses in full bloom
He puts them in her arms and says, "I love you so..
Happy Anniversary from sixty years ago..."
She turns to softly ask him for his name..
A tear rolls down his check and then he whispers it again...
Sometimes love is an uphill climb
It's a lonely road to follow
It's a heavy load to bear
Sometimes love is very patient and kind,
But sometimes love is an uphill climb.
He made it look so easy, he made his coaches proud
He played his best and stood out from the crowd.
They gave him every honor
The highest to be had..
And he'd run home excited to show his Dad..
But some things he would learn to live without..
Because love just wasn't something his father talked about.
Sometimes love is an uphill climb
It's a lonely road to follow
It's a heavy load to bear.
Sometimes love is very patient and kind,
But sometimes love is an uphill climb.
Winners and losers,
The used and the users at the edge of the town
Fathers and mothers, sons and brothers
gathering around...
Some were there to mock the Stranger
Some were there to mourn the loss
But everybody watched as He picked up the wooden cross.
Sometimes love is an uphill climb....
(2004 by Maplesong Music/ASCAP).
Janet got it right....because God showed us His great love....by coming to live among us, and showing us what "life" really is like. He then climbed a hill--and gave us the eternal opportunity to really live.
We can do no less.
Blessings this day.
I'm thankful.....
For a loving, ever-merciful Heavenly Father who continually shows me what "real love" looks like--through His children.
For wonderful friends--all over the world--who continually humble me when they call me "brother" and "friend."
For a precious grandmother--now in heaven--who loved me enough to make sure that I had a home, and when others abandoned me (as a small child) took me in, and raised me.
For a great job...a wonderful boss, and some of the most fun people I've ever worked with. Coyne American Institute is a truly great company here in Chicago (www.coyneamerican.edu)
For peace of mind, and stillness of heart---even when both have been shattered by outward circumstances.
For David, Michael, Timothy, Stephanie, Phil Jr, Christian, Sarah, Jonathan, Matthew, Mitch and Lisa, Kevin and Monica, Dianne, Kyella and Glenn. These people are so very precious to me...even though I've not given their last names. They are a small representation of many, many more people who mean the world to me.
For a wonderful home that I can now call my own.
For the promise of Christ to never leave me alone. I depend on that daily.
For Dr R Hollis Gause is my "father" in so many ways. He will never know how much he means to me.
For Reverend Leonard Kendrick--a friend for more than 30 years--who is also a father to me in so many ways. God knew that I would need more than one.
So what are you thankful for?
For wonderful friends--all over the world--who continually humble me when they call me "brother" and "friend."
For a precious grandmother--now in heaven--who loved me enough to make sure that I had a home, and when others abandoned me (as a small child) took me in, and raised me.
For a great job...a wonderful boss, and some of the most fun people I've ever worked with. Coyne American Institute is a truly great company here in Chicago (www.coyneamerican.edu)
For peace of mind, and stillness of heart---even when both have been shattered by outward circumstances.
For David, Michael, Timothy, Stephanie, Phil Jr, Christian, Sarah, Jonathan, Matthew, Mitch and Lisa, Kevin and Monica, Dianne, Kyella and Glenn. These people are so very precious to me...even though I've not given their last names. They are a small representation of many, many more people who mean the world to me.
For a wonderful home that I can now call my own.
For the promise of Christ to never leave me alone. I depend on that daily.
For Dr R Hollis Gause is my "father" in so many ways. He will never know how much he means to me.
For Reverend Leonard Kendrick--a friend for more than 30 years--who is also a father to me in so many ways. God knew that I would need more than one.
So what are you thankful for?
A serious mistake....what else is new from the Bush Administration?
President Bush has accepted the withdrawal request of his latest Supreme Court nominee, Harriet Ellan Miers.
In my opinion, this is a serious mistake.
It is definitely Ms Miers' perogative to request a withdrawal of her name from the nomination.
But the President should have insisted on her receiving a hearing from the Senate Judiciary Committee. After all, the hearings were set to open on Monday, November 7th.
I understand her desire to "keep the peace"--what little may be left.
Whomever the "new nominee" may be, I sincerely hope that Jim Dobson (Focus on the Family) will keep his "inside information" to himself...and not breathe a word to anyone for any reason.
After all, Dr Dobson is not the President of these United States.
At least, not the last time I voted, he wasn't on the ballot.
In my opinion, this is a serious mistake.
It is definitely Ms Miers' perogative to request a withdrawal of her name from the nomination.
But the President should have insisted on her receiving a hearing from the Senate Judiciary Committee. After all, the hearings were set to open on Monday, November 7th.
I understand her desire to "keep the peace"--what little may be left.
Whomever the "new nominee" may be, I sincerely hope that Jim Dobson (Focus on the Family) will keep his "inside information" to himself...and not breathe a word to anyone for any reason.
After all, Dr Dobson is not the President of these United States.
At least, not the last time I voted, he wasn't on the ballot.
A Brief Testimony
Just felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to share this brief account of God's gracious hand in my life:
About 20 months ago I began a severe bout of depression that I had never encountered before. I was using some prescription medication, but it seemed to have little effect on me--and the effect it did have wasn't for the better either.
Unresolved hurts, injuries, and disappointments were keeping me in emotional and spiritual bondage--and I was convinced that I could be "free" whenever I wanted to be--and that wasn't anything close to the truth. Only the power of Christ could set me free, and help me love and trust Him and those around me again.
I performed all my duties (at work and elsewhere) out of pure obligation--and all the while keeping the fact of my depression as quiet as I possibly could. I even participated in local ministry meetings, and other Christian functions without letting anyone in on the fact that I was devastated on the inside of my heart.
One Sunday morning, at the end of the morning message, my Senior Pastor's wife (Chrissy Toledo) sat down at the piano and began singing this song:
In prisoners' chains
With bleeding stripes
Paul and Silas prayed that night
And in their pain began to sing
Their chains were loosed
And they were free!
I bless Your Name!
I bless Your Name!
I give You honor, give You praise!
You are the Life, the Truth, the Way
I bless Your Name!
I bless Your Name!
Some midnight hour
If you should find
You're in a prison in your mind
Reach out and praise
Defy those chains
And they will fall
In Jesus' Name!
Before Chrissy ever finished singing the song, I found myself in the front of the sanctuary, spread out on the floor, weeping uncontrollably--knowing that only God Himself could heal the hurts that I had carried--or that carried me--for so long.
The "prison of my mind" was more than I could bear!
It was that very phrase, "some midnight hour if you should find, you're in a prison in your mind, reach and praise..." I just had to surrender the pain in my heart and mind to Him--and believe that He could bring me to a place of deliverance and trust.
I just felt the Holy Spirit wanting me to share this very personal account with all of you. You can find this song on the latest CD of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, "I'm Amazed....Live."
About 20 months ago I began a severe bout of depression that I had never encountered before. I was using some prescription medication, but it seemed to have little effect on me--and the effect it did have wasn't for the better either.
Unresolved hurts, injuries, and disappointments were keeping me in emotional and spiritual bondage--and I was convinced that I could be "free" whenever I wanted to be--and that wasn't anything close to the truth. Only the power of Christ could set me free, and help me love and trust Him and those around me again.
I performed all my duties (at work and elsewhere) out of pure obligation--and all the while keeping the fact of my depression as quiet as I possibly could. I even participated in local ministry meetings, and other Christian functions without letting anyone in on the fact that I was devastated on the inside of my heart.
One Sunday morning, at the end of the morning message, my Senior Pastor's wife (Chrissy Toledo) sat down at the piano and began singing this song:
In prisoners' chains
With bleeding stripes
Paul and Silas prayed that night
And in their pain began to sing
Their chains were loosed
And they were free!
I bless Your Name!
I bless Your Name!
I give You honor, give You praise!
You are the Life, the Truth, the Way
I bless Your Name!
I bless Your Name!
Some midnight hour
If you should find
You're in a prison in your mind
Reach out and praise
Defy those chains
And they will fall
In Jesus' Name!
Before Chrissy ever finished singing the song, I found myself in the front of the sanctuary, spread out on the floor, weeping uncontrollably--knowing that only God Himself could heal the hurts that I had carried--or that carried me--for so long.
The "prison of my mind" was more than I could bear!
It was that very phrase, "some midnight hour if you should find, you're in a prison in your mind, reach and praise..." I just had to surrender the pain in my heart and mind to Him--and believe that He could bring me to a place of deliverance and trust.
I just felt the Holy Spirit wanting me to share this very personal account with all of you. You can find this song on the latest CD of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, "I'm Amazed....Live."
You can also go to their website:
Praise His name today!
Psalms 34:4
Hispanics to Bush: "You owe us one..."
And all I have to say to that absolute "nonsense" is "Oh really?"
That is almost like me calling the White House and telling the President, "Oh by the way Prez, I endorsed such and so...and you owe me one..."
I was reading a rather lengthy article in the Chicago Tribune on Friday, and the author was quoting several well-knowns in the political world (mostly Hispanic, I might add), and they were carping about how President Bush had "let them down twice." This being, he let them down because he did not nominate a Latino for the nation's highest judiciary.
Well, couldn't just about every "group" say that someone in Washington DC owes them something?
What about all those "evangelicals" who voted for the current President because they thought he would "kowtow" to their ever-changing agenda?
Sometimes the "religious right" can be oh, so very wrong!
As much as I respect James Dobson (a good Nazarene by the way) and Focus on the Family
I am greatly disturbed when Dobson and those associated with him express their displeasure at someone they do not know (Harriet Miers, in this case)--and believe the President "short changed them."
George W Bush is the President of the entire United States.
Not just the "evangelicals."
And yes, I'm a Bible-practicing, Bible-believing Christian. But I don't believe the President "owes me anything."
That is almost like me calling the White House and telling the President, "Oh by the way Prez, I endorsed such and so...and you owe me one..."
I was reading a rather lengthy article in the Chicago Tribune on Friday, and the author was quoting several well-knowns in the political world (mostly Hispanic, I might add), and they were carping about how President Bush had "let them down twice." This being, he let them down because he did not nominate a Latino for the nation's highest judiciary.
Well, couldn't just about every "group" say that someone in Washington DC owes them something?
What about all those "evangelicals" who voted for the current President because they thought he would "kowtow" to their ever-changing agenda?
Sometimes the "religious right" can be oh, so very wrong!
As much as I respect James Dobson (a good Nazarene by the way) and Focus on the Family
I am greatly disturbed when Dobson and those associated with him express their displeasure at someone they do not know (Harriet Miers, in this case)--and believe the President "short changed them."
George W Bush is the President of the entire United States.
Not just the "evangelicals."
And yes, I'm a Bible-practicing, Bible-believing Christian. But I don't believe the President "owes me anything."
A Justice Harriet Miers?
President Bush has fulfilled his Constitutional duty in sending the nomination of Harriet Miers to the United States Senate for their consideration to fill the seat of retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor--the first woman to ever sit on the United States Supreme Court.
Ms Miers has the confidence of the President of the United States of America.
But sadly some of the "Pharisaical" extremists don't have any confidence in the man they voted into the highest elected office of these "Nifty Fifty" United States.
This dear lady hasn't even had the FIRST hearing yet, and some of the modern-day Pharisees have already loosed a barrage of innuendo and presuppositions that have little, if any, truth to them.
Folks, you cannot have it both ways.
President Bush nominated, and we now have, Chief Justice John G Roberts Jr sitting as the Seventeenth Chief Justice of the United States. He, by all accounts, will do a superb job.
And hopefully so, for years to come.
But this lady--simply because she has refused to "kowtow" to the extreme fringes of the so-called "conservative right" of this nation--is being crucified before she ever has been heard.
From what I've read, I believe she is a stellar candidate, and will be one terrific Justice on the Supreme Court.
I'm personally glad the President did consult 80+ Senators, and listened to his wife as well. We do not need a bruising fight in this nation over such an important position.
From this point on, we should let the Senate Judiciary Committee do its job.
After all, we are paying them to do something other than take foreign trips and long vacations.
Ms Miers has the confidence of the President of the United States of America.
But sadly some of the "Pharisaical" extremists don't have any confidence in the man they voted into the highest elected office of these "Nifty Fifty" United States.
This dear lady hasn't even had the FIRST hearing yet, and some of the modern-day Pharisees have already loosed a barrage of innuendo and presuppositions that have little, if any, truth to them.
Folks, you cannot have it both ways.
President Bush nominated, and we now have, Chief Justice John G Roberts Jr sitting as the Seventeenth Chief Justice of the United States. He, by all accounts, will do a superb job.
And hopefully so, for years to come.
But this lady--simply because she has refused to "kowtow" to the extreme fringes of the so-called "conservative right" of this nation--is being crucified before she ever has been heard.
From what I've read, I believe she is a stellar candidate, and will be one terrific Justice on the Supreme Court.
I'm personally glad the President did consult 80+ Senators, and listened to his wife as well. We do not need a bruising fight in this nation over such an important position.
From this point on, we should let the Senate Judiciary Committee do its job.
After all, we are paying them to do something other than take foreign trips and long vacations.
Chief Justice John G Roberts Jr
Well friends and neighbors, the world has seen history in the making today.
John G Roberts Jr was confirmed by the United States Senate with a vote of 78-22 to become the seventeenth Chief Justice of the United States of America. He is the youngest (at age 50) to hold that exalted position sense the appointment of John Marshall in 1801--who was a whopping 45 at the time.
We Americans have EVERY reason to be proud of the way we have seen the peaceful transition of leadership and power in the nation's judiciary.
The highest court in the nation will take on a new look, and indeed embark on a new path--with Chief Justice Roberts leading the way. We are indebted to pray for God's wisdom to clothe him every day as long as he holds that position.
The resignation of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor--whom Justice Roberts was to originally replace--will be far more contentious than was this nomination and confirmation.
Being the graceful lady that she is, Justice O'Connor has consented to remain on the Supreme Court until her replacement has been nominated and confirmed.
Chief Justice Roberts, we welcome you. We salute you!
And most importantly, we pray for you!
John G Roberts Jr was confirmed by the United States Senate with a vote of 78-22 to become the seventeenth Chief Justice of the United States of America. He is the youngest (at age 50) to hold that exalted position sense the appointment of John Marshall in 1801--who was a whopping 45 at the time.
We Americans have EVERY reason to be proud of the way we have seen the peaceful transition of leadership and power in the nation's judiciary.
The highest court in the nation will take on a new look, and indeed embark on a new path--with Chief Justice Roberts leading the way. We are indebted to pray for God's wisdom to clothe him every day as long as he holds that position.
The resignation of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor--whom Justice Roberts was to originally replace--will be far more contentious than was this nomination and confirmation.
Being the graceful lady that she is, Justice O'Connor has consented to remain on the Supreme Court until her replacement has been nominated and confirmed.
Chief Justice Roberts, we welcome you. We salute you!
And most importantly, we pray for you!
"Commander in Chief"--I Liked it!
I'm probably the only person in the entire United States that has never seen a single episode of "Survivor" or "Fear Factor" or hardly any of the new "melodramas"--regardless of how slick their advance advertisements have been.
But I have been absolutely "enthralled" with ABC's new show, Commander in Chief starring Geena Davis.
I have waited all summer for this one....and it finally came to fruition.
Last night.
I think the plot was terrific, and the acting was superb.
Of course, being somewhat open-minded (others would call me a "flaming liberal"--but I'm really not anything close to that), I think the United States is well overdue a woman as the President of these "nifty Fifty."
Or at least in the role of Vice President.
I didn't vote for Geraldine Ferraro in 1984--and I think Walter Mondale made a colossal mistake in selecting her as his running mate. But I'm not sure he could have won that election regardless of whom he had selected for his VP mate.
But I do believe that now, 21 years removed, we are ready to have a strong, sensible, creative, and powerful woman in one of the top two slots in Washington DC.
So, who will it be?
And when?
But I have been absolutely "enthralled" with ABC's new show, Commander in Chief starring Geena Davis.
I have waited all summer for this one....and it finally came to fruition.
Last night.
I think the plot was terrific, and the acting was superb.
Of course, being somewhat open-minded (others would call me a "flaming liberal"--but I'm really not anything close to that), I think the United States is well overdue a woman as the President of these "nifty Fifty."
Or at least in the role of Vice President.
I didn't vote for Geraldine Ferraro in 1984--and I think Walter Mondale made a colossal mistake in selecting her as his running mate. But I'm not sure he could have won that election regardless of whom he had selected for his VP mate.
But I do believe that now, 21 years removed, we are ready to have a strong, sensible, creative, and powerful woman in one of the top two slots in Washington DC.
So, who will it be?
And when?
"Whatever Happened to Class"
A good friend of mine, Dr Stan Blevins (Senior Pastor, Highland Baptist Church, Lubbock, TX) wrote this almost ten years ago in their weekly church bulletin:
_________________________________
There is a difficult to define quality about people and society, that makes them concerned for the well-being of others and the country as a whole. Because it's hard to specifically define, it's sometimes called "class."
Americans used to have a lot of class. They were a people proud of their country, their community, and themselves. But somewhere in the last thirty or forty years, class has gone by the wayside.
Here are a few examples:
**When I was a boy we'd play on the lawn around the courthouse. Prominently displayed were signs that read, "$200 fine for spitting on the sidewalk." Yet today I constantly pull up behind someone in a pickup truck, stopped at a light, who opens his door and deposits the filth of his chewing habit in the middle of the street, often right where people must cross.
No class.
I'd favor restoring the fine system: "$1000 fine for depositing your germs in the middle of our community."
**It seems I often stop at a light and a vehicle pulls up beside me with speakers larger than the back seat. The sound is turned up as loud as it will go, blasting every person in every surrounding vehicle, not to mention anyone walking along the street.
How pathetic that our society has produced people so desperate for attention that they can only get it by making a public nuisance of themselves.
No class.
Perhaps there ought to be a fine for that as well.
I'll not go futher in detail, but one could pursue such issues as smoking in enclosed public places, cutting in waiting lines, being rude to customers, and the ever-present threat to sue.
No class in any case.
By the way, don't give me any of the popular baloney about "rights." Always remember that the rights of one individual end where they begin to intrude on the rights of another individual.
I liked our nation much better when we all had some class.
Let's each one do our part to restore what we can before it gets any worse.
______________________
Amen, Dr Stan, Amen!
_________________________________
There is a difficult to define quality about people and society, that makes them concerned for the well-being of others and the country as a whole. Because it's hard to specifically define, it's sometimes called "class."
Americans used to have a lot of class. They were a people proud of their country, their community, and themselves. But somewhere in the last thirty or forty years, class has gone by the wayside.
Here are a few examples:
**When I was a boy we'd play on the lawn around the courthouse. Prominently displayed were signs that read, "$200 fine for spitting on the sidewalk." Yet today I constantly pull up behind someone in a pickup truck, stopped at a light, who opens his door and deposits the filth of his chewing habit in the middle of the street, often right where people must cross.
No class.
I'd favor restoring the fine system: "$1000 fine for depositing your germs in the middle of our community."
**It seems I often stop at a light and a vehicle pulls up beside me with speakers larger than the back seat. The sound is turned up as loud as it will go, blasting every person in every surrounding vehicle, not to mention anyone walking along the street.
How pathetic that our society has produced people so desperate for attention that they can only get it by making a public nuisance of themselves.
No class.
Perhaps there ought to be a fine for that as well.
I'll not go futher in detail, but one could pursue such issues as smoking in enclosed public places, cutting in waiting lines, being rude to customers, and the ever-present threat to sue.
No class in any case.
By the way, don't give me any of the popular baloney about "rights." Always remember that the rights of one individual end where they begin to intrude on the rights of another individual.
I liked our nation much better when we all had some class.
Let's each one do our part to restore what we can before it gets any worse.
______________________
Amen, Dr Stan, Amen!
Unnamed and Unwanted....
I wrote this a few months ago. I wanted to share it here:
********************************************************
I recently heard someone give their testimony of God's faithfulness in their life. It moved me beyond what words can describe.
This person told of how his mother became pregnant as a teenager, and later abandoned him after his birth in the hospital of one of the nation's large cities.Many years later, he went to retrieve a birth certificate, and was startled at what he found.
The official document recording his birth labeled him "unnamed boy" and in the notations near the bottom, "unwanted, abandoned by the birth mother."All of his life he has wrestled with these "judgments" from the moment of his birth.
Even after he came to Jesus Christ for salvation, he still struggled with the issues of having been "unnamed" and then "unwanted."
I can identify with him in alot of ways.
Even though I was named at birth, I was later abandoned by the very two people responsible for bringing me to natural life. I have felt "abandoned" more than once since entering adulthood...yet I know these words are true:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
For I am the LORD your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I gave Egypt for your ransom,
Ethiopia and Seba in your place.
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Indeed, the Lord God, who spoke the universe into existence, and who sustains it by His own power, all by Himself, has called me by my name.
And I am His.
********************************************************
I recently heard someone give their testimony of God's faithfulness in their life. It moved me beyond what words can describe.
This person told of how his mother became pregnant as a teenager, and later abandoned him after his birth in the hospital of one of the nation's large cities.Many years later, he went to retrieve a birth certificate, and was startled at what he found.
The official document recording his birth labeled him "unnamed boy" and in the notations near the bottom, "unwanted, abandoned by the birth mother."All of his life he has wrestled with these "judgments" from the moment of his birth.
Even after he came to Jesus Christ for salvation, he still struggled with the issues of having been "unnamed" and then "unwanted."
I can identify with him in alot of ways.
Even though I was named at birth, I was later abandoned by the very two people responsible for bringing me to natural life. I have felt "abandoned" more than once since entering adulthood...yet I know these words are true:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
For I am the LORD your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I gave Egypt for your ransom,
Ethiopia and Seba in your place.
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Indeed, the Lord God, who spoke the universe into existence, and who sustains it by His own power, all by Himself, has called me by my name.
And I am His.
A Letter to President Bush
My precious friend, Philip C Morris, Jr--Senior Pastor of Parkway Church of God in Sevierville, TN recently sent this letter to President George W Bush. I want to post it here:
September 18, 2005
President George W. Bush
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear President Bush:
I honor you as our nation’s president and want you to know that you are constantly in my prayers, especially in light of the catastrophe involving Hurricane Katrina. I have heard you in recent days as you have addressed the nation and pledged to rebuild New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. I commend you for your response to those victimized by this horrible tragedy. However, as a citizen of the United States of America and as a Christian, I do have some concerns about how our tax dollars will be spent in the rebuilding process.
There are many industries and businesses in the Gulf Coast that are worthy of rebuilding. Others, in my opinion, are not. I urge you to please spend our tax dollars wisely as you help to rebuild the Gulf Coast.
Rebuild schools, but not the scandalous New Orleans establishments.
Rebuild industry, but not the sex industry, which exploits women and teenagers.
Rebuild hospitals, but not the bars and brothels which promote alcoholism and promiscuity.
Rebuild businesses that will build up our communities, not gambling casinos that only take things away.
Rebuild people’s houses, but not the whorehouses of prostitution that are a reproach to any nation.
Rebuild government, but not the kind of corrupt government that enslaves people in poverty and turns a blind eye to injustice.
Rebuild health clinics, but not the abortion clinics that have massacred children with brainwaves and heartbeats.
The name “Katrina” means “pure and clean.” Please use our tax dollars to rebuild those pure and clean establishments that will better our nation, instead of the establishments of vice and corruption.
We are praying for you. We are watching you. Please only rebuild those things that you will be proud to leave as your legacy as a strong Christian president.
God bless you,
Philip C. Morris, Jr.
Senior Pastor
___________________________________
It's always reassuring to know that God's people are indeed "thinking Christians." Not just someone who will blindly follow any leader, regardless of their political affiliation.
Phil, I've always loved you. You are a precious man, a wonderful brother, and a tremendous pastor. Know your buddy in Chicago is 1000% behind you.
September 18, 2005
President George W. Bush
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear President Bush:
I honor you as our nation’s president and want you to know that you are constantly in my prayers, especially in light of the catastrophe involving Hurricane Katrina. I have heard you in recent days as you have addressed the nation and pledged to rebuild New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. I commend you for your response to those victimized by this horrible tragedy. However, as a citizen of the United States of America and as a Christian, I do have some concerns about how our tax dollars will be spent in the rebuilding process.
There are many industries and businesses in the Gulf Coast that are worthy of rebuilding. Others, in my opinion, are not. I urge you to please spend our tax dollars wisely as you help to rebuild the Gulf Coast.
Rebuild schools, but not the scandalous New Orleans establishments.
Rebuild industry, but not the sex industry, which exploits women and teenagers.
Rebuild hospitals, but not the bars and brothels which promote alcoholism and promiscuity.
Rebuild businesses that will build up our communities, not gambling casinos that only take things away.
Rebuild people’s houses, but not the whorehouses of prostitution that are a reproach to any nation.
Rebuild government, but not the kind of corrupt government that enslaves people in poverty and turns a blind eye to injustice.
Rebuild health clinics, but not the abortion clinics that have massacred children with brainwaves and heartbeats.
The name “Katrina” means “pure and clean.” Please use our tax dollars to rebuild those pure and clean establishments that will better our nation, instead of the establishments of vice and corruption.
We are praying for you. We are watching you. Please only rebuild those things that you will be proud to leave as your legacy as a strong Christian president.
God bless you,
Philip C. Morris, Jr.
Senior Pastor
___________________________________
It's always reassuring to know that God's people are indeed "thinking Christians." Not just someone who will blindly follow any leader, regardless of their political affiliation.
Phil, I've always loved you. You are a precious man, a wonderful brother, and a tremendous pastor. Know your buddy in Chicago is 1000% behind you.
A Thought for Today...
From Max Lucado's Traveling Light
"You need only pause at the base of the Cross and be reminded of this: The Maker of the stars would rather die for you than live without you. And that is a fact."
May we be constantly reminded of His love for us.
I know that I will need it today.
And all the other days as well.
"You need only pause at the base of the Cross and be reminded of this: The Maker of the stars would rather die for you than live without you. And that is a fact."
May we be constantly reminded of His love for us.
I know that I will need it today.
And all the other days as well.
"Angry White Man" and "Hyphenated Patriotism"
Okay,
Yes, I'm not exactly singing the Doxology right now.
Here's why:
For the last three nights in a row, the Hispanics in my neighborhood have gone absolutely crazy after the sun has gone down.
Something about "Mexican Liberation Day" or something to that effect.
These "immigrants" have spent most of the dark hours driving like maniacs and honking their horns loudly for long periods of time, while waving the Mexican flag all over the street.
I'm the least "racist" person you will ever want to meet. But I'm also an angry white man.
If all these folks are so in love with "Mexico"--then please let's encourage them to return to Mexico--and the sooner the better.
We are in the United States of America. They came here of their own free will. So, now we should insist on these things:
1) You will learn to speak English, and you will use English in your dealings with commerce, every governmental agency, and in public life.
2) You will teach your children to speak English--first and foremost. Sure, teach them your native language--but if they plan on living here--in the nifty fifty--they will learn to speak English fluently.
3) You will respect "public peace" and "public decency." Period.
That includes my right to have a peaceful neighborhood, devoid of your stupidity and "hyphenated patriotism."
Yes, I'm angry...and I should be.
So should every other person who lives in this country, and wants to be an American.
Yes, I'm not exactly singing the Doxology right now.
Here's why:
For the last three nights in a row, the Hispanics in my neighborhood have gone absolutely crazy after the sun has gone down.
Something about "Mexican Liberation Day" or something to that effect.
These "immigrants" have spent most of the dark hours driving like maniacs and honking their horns loudly for long periods of time, while waving the Mexican flag all over the street.
I'm the least "racist" person you will ever want to meet. But I'm also an angry white man.
If all these folks are so in love with "Mexico"--then please let's encourage them to return to Mexico--and the sooner the better.
We are in the United States of America. They came here of their own free will. So, now we should insist on these things:
1) You will learn to speak English, and you will use English in your dealings with commerce, every governmental agency, and in public life.
2) You will teach your children to speak English--first and foremost. Sure, teach them your native language--but if they plan on living here--in the nifty fifty--they will learn to speak English fluently.
3) You will respect "public peace" and "public decency." Period.
That includes my right to have a peaceful neighborhood, devoid of your stupidity and "hyphenated patriotism."
Yes, I'm angry...and I should be.
So should every other person who lives in this country, and wants to be an American.
40 Best Christian Places to Work....
From a February Issue of Christianity Today, I found this list...and I think it is very interesting indeed.
What makes a "great place" to work? And particularly one who exalts the name and power of Christ in the labor environment?
Maybe we should ask these people. Here's the list:
Small Service and Product Organizations
Christian Medical and Dental Associations • Bristol, Tennessee
Council for Christian Colleges & Universities • Washington, D.C.
Whitehead, Phillipi & Harris • Penndel, Pennsylvania
The DeMoss Group • Duluth, Georgia
Large Service and Product Organizations
Evangelical Christian Credit Union • Brea, California
Association of Christian Schools Intl. • Colorado Springs, Colorado
DaySpring Cards • Siloam Springs, Arkansas (tie) Shepherds Ministries • Union Grove, Wisconsin
Small Missions and Parachurch Organizations
Medical Ambassadors International • Modesto, California
New Mission Systems International • Fort Myers, Florida
Team Expansion • Louisville, Kentucky
Partners International • Spokane, Washington
Large Missions and Parachurch Organizations
Coalition for Christian Outreach • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
SIM USA • Charlotte, North Carolina
Bible League • Chicago, Illinois
International Bible Society • Colorado Springs, Colorado
Small Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Phoenix Seminary • Scottsdale, Arizona
Beeson Divinity School • Birmingham, Alabama
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary • Springfield, Missouri
Denver Seminary • Englewood, Colorado
Medium Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Dallas Theological Seminary • Dallas, Texas (tie) Multnomah Bible College and Seminary • Portland, Oregon
Western Baptist College • Salem, Oregon (tie) Bryan College • Dayton, Tennessee
Large Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Whitworth College • Spokane, Washington
Spring Arbor University • Spring Arbor, Michigan
Moody Bible Institute • Chicago, Illinois
Cedarville University • Cedarville, Ohio
Small Media Organizations
Howard Publishing • West Monroe, Louisiana
Paraclete Press • Orleans, Massachusetts
InterVarsity Press • Westmont, Illinois
Far East Broadcasting • La Mirada, California
Large Media Organizations
Group Publishing • Loveland, Colorado
Zondervan • Grand Rapids, Michigan
Tyndale House • Carol Stream, Illinois
Multnomah Publishers • Sisters, Oregon
Private Christian Schools
Covenant Christian High School • Indianapolis, Indiana
Christian Heritage Academy • Northfield, Illinois
High Point Christian Academy • High Point, North Carolina
King's Way Christian School • Vancouver, Washington
What makes a "great place" to work? And particularly one who exalts the name and power of Christ in the labor environment?
Maybe we should ask these people. Here's the list:
Small Service and Product Organizations
Christian Medical and Dental Associations • Bristol, Tennessee
Council for Christian Colleges & Universities • Washington, D.C.
Whitehead, Phillipi & Harris • Penndel, Pennsylvania
The DeMoss Group • Duluth, Georgia
Large Service and Product Organizations
Evangelical Christian Credit Union • Brea, California
Association of Christian Schools Intl. • Colorado Springs, Colorado
DaySpring Cards • Siloam Springs, Arkansas (tie) Shepherds Ministries • Union Grove, Wisconsin
Small Missions and Parachurch Organizations
Medical Ambassadors International • Modesto, California
New Mission Systems International • Fort Myers, Florida
Team Expansion • Louisville, Kentucky
Partners International • Spokane, Washington
Large Missions and Parachurch Organizations
Coalition for Christian Outreach • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
SIM USA • Charlotte, North Carolina
Bible League • Chicago, Illinois
International Bible Society • Colorado Springs, Colorado
Small Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Phoenix Seminary • Scottsdale, Arizona
Beeson Divinity School • Birmingham, Alabama
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary • Springfield, Missouri
Denver Seminary • Englewood, Colorado
Medium Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Dallas Theological Seminary • Dallas, Texas (tie) Multnomah Bible College and Seminary • Portland, Oregon
Western Baptist College • Salem, Oregon (tie) Bryan College • Dayton, Tennessee
Large Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries
Whitworth College • Spokane, Washington
Spring Arbor University • Spring Arbor, Michigan
Moody Bible Institute • Chicago, Illinois
Cedarville University • Cedarville, Ohio
Small Media Organizations
Howard Publishing • West Monroe, Louisiana
Paraclete Press • Orleans, Massachusetts
InterVarsity Press • Westmont, Illinois
Far East Broadcasting • La Mirada, California
Large Media Organizations
Group Publishing • Loveland, Colorado
Zondervan • Grand Rapids, Michigan
Tyndale House • Carol Stream, Illinois
Multnomah Publishers • Sisters, Oregon
Private Christian Schools
Covenant Christian High School • Indianapolis, Indiana
Christian Heritage Academy • Northfield, Illinois
High Point Christian Academy • High Point, North Carolina
King's Way Christian School • Vancouver, Washington
"Evangelicals and Catholics Together"--Eleven years later
http://www.firstthings.com/ftissues/ft9405/articles/mission.html
I recently finished reading the marvelous "festschrift" edited by Chuck Colson and Father Richard John Neuhaus. I have renewed respect for my Catholic friends who love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ to the best of their knowledge and ability.
We have much in common--and many differences.
We must acknowledge and respect both!
I recently finished reading the marvelous "festschrift" edited by Chuck Colson and Father Richard John Neuhaus. I have renewed respect for my Catholic friends who love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ to the best of their knowledge and ability.
We have much in common--and many differences.
We must acknowledge and respect both!
Pastor Travis Johnson...visit his place!
Here's the link:
http://pastortrav.blogspot.com/
Travis and I have a "history." He was my single's leader at the North Cleveland Church of God in the late 90s. He has been a friend now for a long time. And he's got a wonderful wife.
Visit his "place" and take a look around. Tell him that Phil Hoover, in the Windy City, sent you.
http://pastortrav.blogspot.com/
Travis and I have a "history." He was my single's leader at the North Cleveland Church of God in the late 90s. He has been a friend now for a long time. And he's got a wonderful wife.
Visit his "place" and take a look around. Tell him that Phil Hoover, in the Windy City, sent you.
God bless WALMART.....
The WalMart Corporation really does look out for their associates. This is from their website, www.walmart.com:
Initially, more than 34,000 Wal-Mart associates were displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
Our goal is to help associates get back on their feet and move forward with their lives. The Wal-Mart Emergency Information Line, established to answer associates questions and concerns, has fielded more than 12,200 calls.
Any displaced associate can come and work in any other U. S. Wal-Mart store.
Displaced associates are eligible for up to $1,000 from our Associate Disaster Relief Fund if their homes were flooded or destroyed. We have already provided cash assistance to more than 6,100 associates.
The on-line Emergency Contact Service placed on walmart.com and samsclub.com for use by associates and the public to locate and communicate with their friends and family members has received more than 9,600 postings and more than 960,000 hits.
_______________________________________________
How many other large companies have made such offers to their displaced employees?
Initially, more than 34,000 Wal-Mart associates were displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
Our goal is to help associates get back on their feet and move forward with their lives. The Wal-Mart Emergency Information Line, established to answer associates questions and concerns, has fielded more than 12,200 calls.
Any displaced associate can come and work in any other U. S. Wal-Mart store.
Displaced associates are eligible for up to $1,000 from our Associate Disaster Relief Fund if their homes were flooded or destroyed. We have already provided cash assistance to more than 6,100 associates.
The on-line Emergency Contact Service placed on walmart.com and samsclub.com for use by associates and the public to locate and communicate with their friends and family members has received more than 9,600 postings and more than 960,000 hits.
_______________________________________________
How many other large companies have made such offers to their displaced employees?
Operation Compassion: I know these people....
http://www.operationcompassion.org/news.cfm?sid=1826
This organization is the compassionate ministries of the Church of God, Cleveland TN.
I know these people personally and very well, at that.
Please feel free to contribute to them, as generously as you possibly can!
This organization is the compassionate ministries of the Church of God, Cleveland TN.
I know these people personally and very well, at that.
Please feel free to contribute to them, as generously as you possibly can!
You can help...Here's how.
All of these agencies are bona fide emergency relief services. Please feel free to give generously to any or all of them:
FEMA listed the following agencies as needing cash to assist hurricane victims:
* American Red Cross, 800-HELP-NOW (435-7669) English, 800-257-7575 Spanish.
* America's Second Harvest, 800-344-8070.
* Adventist Community Services, 800-381-7171.
* Catholic Charities USA, 800-919-9338.
* Christian Disaster Response, 941-956-5183 or 941-551-9554.
* Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, 800-848-5818.
* Church World Service, 800-297-1516.
* Convoy of Hope, 417-823-8998.
* Lutheran Disaster Response, 800-638-3522.
* Mennonite Disaster Service, 717-859-2210.
* Nazarene Disaster Response, 888-256-5886.
* Operation Blessing, 800-436-6348.
* Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, 800-872-3283.
* Salvation Army, 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).
* Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief, 800-462-8657, Ext. 6440.
* United Methodist Committee on Relief, 800-554-8583
* Avoid Katrina-Related Scams and Hoaxes (Security Fix Blog)
FEMA listed the following agencies as needing cash to assist hurricane victims:
* American Red Cross, 800-HELP-NOW (435-7669) English, 800-257-7575 Spanish.
* America's Second Harvest, 800-344-8070.
* Adventist Community Services, 800-381-7171.
* Catholic Charities USA, 800-919-9338.
* Christian Disaster Response, 941-956-5183 or 941-551-9554.
* Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, 800-848-5818.
* Church World Service, 800-297-1516.
* Convoy of Hope, 417-823-8998.
* Lutheran Disaster Response, 800-638-3522.
* Mennonite Disaster Service, 717-859-2210.
* Nazarene Disaster Response, 888-256-5886.
* Operation Blessing, 800-436-6348.
* Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, 800-872-3283.
* Salvation Army, 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769).
* Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief, 800-462-8657, Ext. 6440.
* United Methodist Committee on Relief, 800-554-8583
* Avoid Katrina-Related Scams and Hoaxes (Security Fix Blog)
Hurricane KATRINA...what a mess!
Here's a link to the Washington Post story from this morning:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/31/AR2005083100724.html
This will turn out to be one of the most costly and destructive of any natural disaster in recent memory. The people of southern Louisiana, and southern Mississippi have a long road of retrieval, renewal, and repair.
Let's do everything we can to help them. That includes prayer.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/31/AR2005083100724.html
This will turn out to be one of the most costly and destructive of any natural disaster in recent memory. The people of southern Louisiana, and southern Mississippi have a long road of retrieval, renewal, and repair.
Let's do everything we can to help them. That includes prayer.
This one "takes the cake..."
Of all the idiotic things our Federal Government attempts to do, this one certainly takes the cake for supreme stupidity. Read on:
The Air Force's new guidelines for religious tolerance will discourage public prayer at official functions and urge commanders to be "sensitive" about personal expressions of religious faith, according to a draft obtained Monday by The Associated Press.
The draft directs chaplains to "respect the rights of others to their own religious beliefs, including the right to hold no beliefs."
The guidelines, which would apply to the entire Air Force, were drawn up after allegations that evangelical Christians wield so much influence at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs that anti-Semitism and other forms of religious harassment have become pervasive.
An Air Force task force concluded that some students and staff at the school have the perception that the academy favors evangelical Christians and is intolerant of those who do not share their faith.
The draft was provided to the Associated Press by Mikey Weinstein, an academy graduate and persistent critic of the school's handling of religion. Air Force spokeswoman Jennifer Stevens confirmed the accuracy of the draft and said it was expected to be officially released later Monday.
The draft does not ban public prayer outright and says short, nonsectarian prayers may be included in special ceremonies or events, but only to lend a sense of solemnity and not to promote specific beliefs.
Nor does it bar personal discussions of religion, including discussions between commanders and subordinates. It cautions Air Force members "to be sensitive to the potential that personal expressions may appear to be official expressions."
The draft states that members of the Air Force "will not officially endorse or establish religion, either one specific religion, or the idea of religion over non-religion."
It also says that "abuse or disrespect" of Air Force members based on their religious beliefs, or lack of such beliefs, is unacceptable.
*****************************************
Funny, but in my ten years of military service--Air Force, at that---not once did I see anyone "disrespected" or "abused" because of their religious beliefs, or lack thereof.
The absolute insanity of our government officials astounds me sometimes.
As well it should.
The Air Force's new guidelines for religious tolerance will discourage public prayer at official functions and urge commanders to be "sensitive" about personal expressions of religious faith, according to a draft obtained Monday by The Associated Press.
The draft directs chaplains to "respect the rights of others to their own religious beliefs, including the right to hold no beliefs."
The guidelines, which would apply to the entire Air Force, were drawn up after allegations that evangelical Christians wield so much influence at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs that anti-Semitism and other forms of religious harassment have become pervasive.
An Air Force task force concluded that some students and staff at the school have the perception that the academy favors evangelical Christians and is intolerant of those who do not share their faith.
The draft was provided to the Associated Press by Mikey Weinstein, an academy graduate and persistent critic of the school's handling of religion. Air Force spokeswoman Jennifer Stevens confirmed the accuracy of the draft and said it was expected to be officially released later Monday.
The draft does not ban public prayer outright and says short, nonsectarian prayers may be included in special ceremonies or events, but only to lend a sense of solemnity and not to promote specific beliefs.
Nor does it bar personal discussions of religion, including discussions between commanders and subordinates. It cautions Air Force members "to be sensitive to the potential that personal expressions may appear to be official expressions."
The draft states that members of the Air Force "will not officially endorse or establish religion, either one specific religion, or the idea of religion over non-religion."
It also says that "abuse or disrespect" of Air Force members based on their religious beliefs, or lack of such beliefs, is unacceptable.
*****************************************
Funny, but in my ten years of military service--Air Force, at that---not once did I see anyone "disrespected" or "abused" because of their religious beliefs, or lack thereof.
The absolute insanity of our government officials astounds me sometimes.
As well it should.
Happy Birthday to my former friend....
My former friend, Chris (in Minneapolis) is celebrating his 35th Birthday today! I wish I were there to celebrate it with him, and to let him know just how special he is to so many people.
But alas, that won't be the case.
Sadly enough...because Chris no longer considers me to be his friend, or even his brother in Christ.
Innuendoes, gossip, suspicions, and alot of loose-lipped people made sure this friendship wouldn't last. Like I said earlier...sadly enough.
I really didn't think that we followers of Christ could or (worse yet) would behave as we have in our relationships with one another...
But we do, we did, and we have.
Maybe someday, we will realize just how much we are grieving the heart of God in how we are treating and responding to one another.
Happy Birthday Chris Martino!
But alas, that won't be the case.
Sadly enough...because Chris no longer considers me to be his friend, or even his brother in Christ.
Innuendoes, gossip, suspicions, and alot of loose-lipped people made sure this friendship wouldn't last. Like I said earlier...sadly enough.
I really didn't think that we followers of Christ could or (worse yet) would behave as we have in our relationships with one another...
But we do, we did, and we have.
Maybe someday, we will realize just how much we are grieving the heart of God in how we are treating and responding to one another.
Happy Birthday Chris Martino!
For Heaven's sake, PAT...SHUT UP!
Every time M.G. "Pat" Robertson opens his mouth about governmental policy in this nation, he seems to INSERT BOTH OF HIS FEET.
In the meantime, he embarrasses the rest of the followers of Christ in this country. And this isn't the first time. Read on:
CARACAS, Venezuela - Venezuela's vice president accused religious broadcaster Pat Robertson on Tuesday of making "terrorist statements" by suggesting that American agents assassinate President Hugo Chavez.
Vice President Jose Vicente Rangel said Venezuela was studying its legal options, adding that how Washington responds to Robertson's comments would put its anti-terrorism policy to the test.
"The ball is in the U.S. court, after this criminal statement by a citizen of that country," Rangel told reporters. "It's huge hypocrisy to maintain this discourse against terrorism and at the same time, in the heart of that country, there are entirely terrorist statements like those."
The State Department distanced itself from Robertson's comments.
"We do not share his view, and his comments are inappropriate," spokesman Sean McCormack said.
There was no immediate comment from Chavez, who was winding up an official visit to Cuba on Tuesday. Scores of journalists awaited Chavez at the airport, where he was to board a plane for a trip to Jamaica to discuss a Venezuela initiative to supply petroleum to Caribbean countries under favorable financial terms.
On Monday, Robertson said on the Christian Broadcast Network's "The 700 Club": "We have the ability to take him out, and I think the time has come that we exercise that ability."
"We don't need another $200 billion war to get rid of one, you know, strong-arm dictator," he continued. "It's a whole lot easier to have some of the covert operatives do the job and then get it over with."
Chavez has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of President Bush , accusing the United States of conspiring to topple his government and possibly backing plots to assassinate him. U.S. officials have called the accusations ridiculous.
"You know, I don't know about this doctrine of assassination, but if he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think that we really ought to go ahead and do it," Robertson said. "It's a whole lot cheaper than starting a war ... and I don't think any oil shipments will stop."
Rangel called Robertson "a man who seems to have quite a bit of influence in that country," adding sarcastically that his words were "very Christian."
The comments "reveal that religious fundamentalism is one of the great problems facing humanity in these times," Rangel said.
Robertson's remarks appear likely to further stoke tensions between Washington and Caracas. Chavez has repeatedly claimed that American officials are plotting to oust or kill him — charges U.S. officials have denied.
The United States is the top buyer of Venezuelan crude, but Chavez has made it clear he wants to decrease the country's dependence on the U.S. market by finding other buyers.
Chavez has survived a brief 2002 coup, a devastating two-month strike that ended in early 2003 and recall referendum in 2004. The former army paratroop commander, a close ally of Cuban leader Fidel Castro, is up for re-election next year, and polls suggest he is the favorite.
********************************************************
Would someone please tell Pat to put a "lid on it."
PLEASE......
In the meantime, he embarrasses the rest of the followers of Christ in this country. And this isn't the first time. Read on:
CARACAS, Venezuela - Venezuela's vice president accused religious broadcaster Pat Robertson on Tuesday of making "terrorist statements" by suggesting that American agents assassinate President Hugo Chavez.
Vice President Jose Vicente Rangel said Venezuela was studying its legal options, adding that how Washington responds to Robertson's comments would put its anti-terrorism policy to the test.
"The ball is in the U.S. court, after this criminal statement by a citizen of that country," Rangel told reporters. "It's huge hypocrisy to maintain this discourse against terrorism and at the same time, in the heart of that country, there are entirely terrorist statements like those."
The State Department distanced itself from Robertson's comments.
"We do not share his view, and his comments are inappropriate," spokesman Sean McCormack said.
There was no immediate comment from Chavez, who was winding up an official visit to Cuba on Tuesday. Scores of journalists awaited Chavez at the airport, where he was to board a plane for a trip to Jamaica to discuss a Venezuela initiative to supply petroleum to Caribbean countries under favorable financial terms.
On Monday, Robertson said on the Christian Broadcast Network's "The 700 Club": "We have the ability to take him out, and I think the time has come that we exercise that ability."
"We don't need another $200 billion war to get rid of one, you know, strong-arm dictator," he continued. "It's a whole lot easier to have some of the covert operatives do the job and then get it over with."
Chavez has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of President Bush , accusing the United States of conspiring to topple his government and possibly backing plots to assassinate him. U.S. officials have called the accusations ridiculous.
"You know, I don't know about this doctrine of assassination, but if he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think that we really ought to go ahead and do it," Robertson said. "It's a whole lot cheaper than starting a war ... and I don't think any oil shipments will stop."
Rangel called Robertson "a man who seems to have quite a bit of influence in that country," adding sarcastically that his words were "very Christian."
The comments "reveal that religious fundamentalism is one of the great problems facing humanity in these times," Rangel said.
Robertson's remarks appear likely to further stoke tensions between Washington and Caracas. Chavez has repeatedly claimed that American officials are plotting to oust or kill him — charges U.S. officials have denied.
The United States is the top buyer of Venezuelan crude, but Chavez has made it clear he wants to decrease the country's dependence on the U.S. market by finding other buyers.
Chavez has survived a brief 2002 coup, a devastating two-month strike that ended in early 2003 and recall referendum in 2004. The former army paratroop commander, a close ally of Cuban leader Fidel Castro, is up for re-election next year, and polls suggest he is the favorite.
********************************************************
Would someone please tell Pat to put a "lid on it."
PLEASE......
My precious friend Gail!
www.westmorecog.org
Gail Lemmert has been a friend of mine now for many years. What a gracious, godly lady! And what a wonderful lady to call "mom"--among the many "moms" that I'm blest to have.
For many years she was the Director of Counseling and Testing at Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu) in Cleveland, TN. Now she is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation at the Westmore Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee. Her Senior Pastor is an old colleague of mine from college days, Bishop Kelvin Page.
This indeed is a small world.
Gail Lemmert has been a friend of mine now for many years. What a gracious, godly lady! And what a wonderful lady to call "mom"--among the many "moms" that I'm blest to have.
For many years she was the Director of Counseling and Testing at Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu) in Cleveland, TN. Now she is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation at the Westmore Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee. Her Senior Pastor is an old colleague of mine from college days, Bishop Kelvin Page.
This indeed is a small world.
From the mouth of children
A friend sent these to me:
_______________________________
A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales.
The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small.
The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible.
The little girl said, "When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah".
The teacher asked, "What if Jonah went to hell?"
The little girl replied, "Then you ask him ".
*******************************************
A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they were drawing. She would occasionally walk around to see each child's work.
As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, "I'm drawing God."
The teacher paused and said, "But no one knows what God looks like."
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, "They will in a minute."
*************************************************
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds.
After explaining the commandment to "honor" thy Father and thy Mother, she asked, "Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?"
Without missing a beat one little boy (the oldest of a family) answered, "Thou shall not kill."
***************************************************
One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head.
She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, "Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?"
Her mother replied, "Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white."
The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, "Momma, how come ALL of grandma's hairs are white?"
*********************************************
The children had all been photographed, and the teacher was trying to persuade them each to buy a copy of the group picture."
Just think how nice it will be to look at it when you are all grown up and say, 'There's Jennifer, she's a lawyer,' or 'That's Michael, He's a doctor.'
A small voice at the back of the room rang out, "And there's the teacher, she's dead."
***********************************************
A teacher was giving a lesson on the circulation of the blood. Trying to make the matter clearer, she said, "Now, class, if I stood on my head, the blood, as you know, would run into it, and I would turn red in the face."
"Yes," the class said."
Then why is it that while I am standing upright in the ordinary position the blood doesn't run into my feet?"
A little fellow shouted,"Cause your feet ain't empty."
********************************************
The children were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch.
At the head of the table was a large pile of apples.
The nun made a note, and posted on the apple tray:"Take only ONE. God is watching."
Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies.
A child had written a note, "Take all you want. God is watching the apples."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Laughter is, indeed, the best medicine.
_______________________________
A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales.
The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small.
The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible.
The little girl said, "When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah".
The teacher asked, "What if Jonah went to hell?"
The little girl replied, "Then you ask him ".
*******************************************
A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they were drawing. She would occasionally walk around to see each child's work.
As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, "I'm drawing God."
The teacher paused and said, "But no one knows what God looks like."
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, "They will in a minute."
*************************************************
A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds.
After explaining the commandment to "honor" thy Father and thy Mother, she asked, "Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?"
Without missing a beat one little boy (the oldest of a family) answered, "Thou shall not kill."
***************************************************
One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother had several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head.
She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, "Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?"
Her mother replied, "Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white."
The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, "Momma, how come ALL of grandma's hairs are white?"
*********************************************
The children had all been photographed, and the teacher was trying to persuade them each to buy a copy of the group picture."
Just think how nice it will be to look at it when you are all grown up and say, 'There's Jennifer, she's a lawyer,' or 'That's Michael, He's a doctor.'
A small voice at the back of the room rang out, "And there's the teacher, she's dead."
***********************************************
A teacher was giving a lesson on the circulation of the blood. Trying to make the matter clearer, she said, "Now, class, if I stood on my head, the blood, as you know, would run into it, and I would turn red in the face."
"Yes," the class said."
Then why is it that while I am standing upright in the ordinary position the blood doesn't run into my feet?"
A little fellow shouted,"Cause your feet ain't empty."
********************************************
The children were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch.
At the head of the table was a large pile of apples.
The nun made a note, and posted on the apple tray:"Take only ONE. God is watching."
Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies.
A child had written a note, "Take all you want. God is watching the apples."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Laughter is, indeed, the best medicine.
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