I had a spiritual encounter unlike any I had ever experienced before...or since.
Here's what happened:
I was living/stationed in Oslo, Norway at the time. I was active duty in the United States Air Force. This was a very difficult assignment in many ways...mainly because of the horrible working conditions/situation in which I was placed.
I was stressed beyond any reasonable limits, and was having a real spiritual battle in my heart, head, and soul as well. I felt as though I could tell no one, and that made me even more "isolated" than ever. I was part of two great congregations in the Oslo area (one met on Sunday mornings, and the other met on Sunday evenings). So "fellowship" and being part of a local congregation wasn't the "immediate need"--or at least I don't think it was.
May 1, 1992 was a holiday in Norway: "May Day"...Europeans love their holidays. And the American service/government personnel living in Norway also had the day off. On the night before, I had decided that it was 'time to do something' about the angst and confusion in my soul.
I lived about 500 feet from the train station in my neighborhood, so after work, I went home, changed clothes, and jumped on the train to go "downtown" for the evening. I was clearly wanting to engage in some type of activity that would help ease the "emotional pain" and the frustrations in my life.
Never been an alcoholic drinker (save for less than three glasses of wine, up to this point), but thought I might try it. [Beer looks like urine and smells worse, in my opinion, so that was definitely OUT]. I was 30 years old, so I could "do what I wanted with whomever, wherever I wanted"--or so I thought. As long as it was legal, and caused no "harm" to anyone else...hey, I was open to it. Even as a Christian, I was so troubled in my mind and heart, that I just wanted to find some "relief" for all the emotional turmoil and pain I was experiencing.
I went into a few bars--had a few Sprites. Went into a few clubs, and watched alot of people dance, and flirt, etc. Yet, the pain wasn't going away. The deep frustration in my soul wasn't being eased. Of course with only a SPRITE in my hand, the best I would get would be a "sugar buzz"...and I was just too cheap to buy anything stronger!
About 11 p.m. that evening, I was in OsloSentralStasjon (the main train hub in the center of the city), and knew that I needed to talk with someone...have someone pray for me...anything...
So I tried calling my friend Rick Polachek (at the time a Navigator in the USAF, stationed in Plattsburg, NY), from the pay phone in the train station. The line was continually busy. I needed to talk with him, and pour out my heart....I had to....I must!
After several failed attempts, I was about to give up, when a young Norwegian army fellow came by me, and asked about a pay phone. I pointed him to the nearest one. He was still dressed in his military uniform, and had traveled from the far northern part of the country. He was down to visit a friend of his.
He tried to call someone, and couldn't reach them. I heard him say a few things (nothing off-color, or vulgar), and went to see if I could assist him in some way. I identified myself as American military, attached to NATO/Embassy, and wanted to offer any help that I could. He explained his situation to me--he needed to reach his friend, so he would have a place to spend the evening.
I lived in a beautiful three bedroom home, and had plenty of room. I offered him the room for the evening, and after a short conversation, he accepted. His name was Jan Torge. I can't remember his surname. But that's beside the point.
We got in a taxi, and were on our way to my house. It was well after midnight by this time. As soon as we arrived, I showed him the guest bedroom, and the kitchen. (Every man needs to know where the food is stored...LOL). He asked if he could take a shower. I consented, and showed him where the "necessities" were.
He took a rather long shower....actually a REAL long shower.
I went in my bedroom, climbed into my bed, opened my Bible, and began my "guilt trip." I shed a few tears, and told God how sorry I was that I had disappointed Him, myself, and that I needed help. This little "episode" lasted for about 30 minutes.
About the time I was getting ready to turn out the light, my houseguest gets out of the shower, and knocks on my bedroom door. "May I come in? I need to tell you something..."
At this point, I really didn't want to talk about anything. I assumed I had already caused enough grief for myself and God for one day. However, Jan Torge then said, "While I was showering, the Lord spoke to me, and you need to know......"
BUSTED!
At that point, I knew that I needed to "hear" this good man out. (Keep in mind, when I offered him a place to stay, I didn't even know he was a Christian...maybe, because I never asked.)
I invited Jan to come in and talk with me. He made some small talk, and then said,
"Phil, my English isn't very good, but the Lord wants you to know that He loves you. He has seen every place that you have been tonite. You've been searching for _________, but God wants you to know that He has something so much better for you." He then proceeded to tell me everything that I had done that evening--to the place, not missing any details.
He then opened my Bible, and shared some passages with me. The next thing I knew, we were on our knees that evening weeping before the Lord, repenting, and confessing.
This lasted until about 3 a.m. in the morning.
The next morning, I got up, and started preparing breakfast for myself and my house guest. He asked if he could use the telephone to reach his "friend" whom he couldn't reach the previous evening. "Of course," I said, "Go right ahead."
Now this had to be God: The person he was trying to reach, Jon Erik Selle, was my very best friend from the Oslo Kristne Centre (the Sunday evening church where I worshipped and fellowshipped)!
So yes, God is still very active in the lives of His children today! That was sixteen years ago last night...and I remember it as though it were yesterday.
Final Salute: A Story of Unfinished Lives
A "must read." I just listened to an amazing radio interview with Colonel Steve Beck (USMC), and author Jim Sheeler about the "story" of fallen Marines from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The interview played on National Public Radio's program, "FRESH AIR" with Terri Gros. It was a riveting program.
So riveting, in fact, that I went to www.amazon.com and purchased the book which is due to be released tomorrow.
Let me encourage you to get this volume, and read it. Give a copy to a friend...to your pastor, or to someone whom you care about deeply.
Our brave men and women in uniform deserve our deepest respect, adulations, and heartfelt gratitude.
So riveting, in fact, that I went to www.amazon.com and purchased the book which is due to be released tomorrow.
Let me encourage you to get this volume, and read it. Give a copy to a friend...to your pastor, or to someone whom you care about deeply.
Our brave men and women in uniform deserve our deepest respect, adulations, and heartfelt gratitude.
Some "Points to Ponder"...
Taken from GINGER SNAPS: Fun Thoughts on Life (Compiled by Dian Ritter):
Weak men wait for opportunities; strong men make them.
Beaten paths are for beaten people.
There's no such thing as a ladder of success: It is a greased pole.
A friend is always delighted at your success--as long as it doesn't exceed their own.
Success tip: Start at the bottom and wake up.
There is no traffic jam on the "extra mile."
Our first energy crisis was known as Monday Morning.
Gambling is a way of getting nothing for something.
You can't take it with you, and it's getting harder to keep it while you're here!
Bringing up children is simple--if you don't have any.
I'm a light eater: As soon as it is light, I start eating!
Fight Truth Decay.
Frown--at least you'll get credit for thinking.
If you ask enough people, you can usually find someone who'll advise you to do what you were going to do anyway.
**Everyone has insecurities...but often about different things**
People carried away with their own importance seldom have far to walk back.
A great deal of what we see depends on what we are looking for.
**I came up with this one--all by myself!
Weak men wait for opportunities; strong men make them.
Beaten paths are for beaten people.
There's no such thing as a ladder of success: It is a greased pole.
A friend is always delighted at your success--as long as it doesn't exceed their own.
Success tip: Start at the bottom and wake up.
There is no traffic jam on the "extra mile."
Our first energy crisis was known as Monday Morning.
Gambling is a way of getting nothing for something.
You can't take it with you, and it's getting harder to keep it while you're here!
Bringing up children is simple--if you don't have any.
I'm a light eater: As soon as it is light, I start eating!
Fight Truth Decay.
Frown--at least you'll get credit for thinking.
If you ask enough people, you can usually find someone who'll advise you to do what you were going to do anyway.
**Everyone has insecurities...but often about different things**
People carried away with their own importance seldom have far to walk back.
A great deal of what we see depends on what we are looking for.
**I came up with this one--all by myself!
To the Chicago Tribune
I sent the following letter to the Chicago Tribune yesterday. Let's see if it gets published. Here it is:
We have had a rash of violence on the city's South side. I have been deeply troubled by all the "gun violence" and other forms of criminal activity that regularly makes the news here in Chicago.
I've lived here almost eight years, and it has troubled me for almost that entire time. I'm glad that Mayor Daley's office finally recognized that "parents" have responsibilities too. Now, if the parents will believe that ONE concept.
However, I was a teenager not too many years ago (less than 30 years ago), and I grew up without all the "stuff" that many teens (and their families) think necessary for survival today. I have some things for our "society" to think about.
First, for the parents:
Telling your child "NO" and meaning it, (and being willing to enforce the consequences) is not child abuse. It is your responsibility. This is particularly important when it comes to curfews, homework, and respect. If that child lives under your roof, eats from your table, then he/she should be served notice: they will observe and obey YOUR rules. That is your responsibility.
Knowing where your child is before, during, and after school hours is not "spying" on your children. It is YOUR responsibility to know where they are, and what they are doing.
Knowing your child's friends and other relationships is YOUR responsibility...it is not "emotionally abusing" to anyone...and particularly not to your child(ren).
Knowing (and respecting) your child's school teacher is YOUR responsibility. His/her job is already difficult enough, because 9 times out of 10, they are having to teach "your child" things that you should have taught them in the first place...IN YOUR HOME. Be grateful for your child's teacher, and support them every opportunity that comes along.
Telling your child that guns, gangs, and sexual activity are OFF-LIMITS to them (and meaning it) is your responsibility. Their "self-esteem" will be in much better shape when you give them boundaries, and consequences. They need both. We do not need more "babies" having babies, and "children" raising children. Abstinence still works. Your children must know this, and you must tell them. Abstinence from GUNS, GANGS, and SEXUAL ACTIVITY (until they are much more prepared than they currently are) is possible.
For the child/teenager:
I grew up without the love and guidance of my natural parents. They abandoned me when I was very, very small. But what I did have was alot of grown-ups who cared about me enough to make sure that I got a good education, and learned how to find my place in the society. I have some advice for you too:
It is not abuse when an adult insists that you use good manners. This includes "sir, ma'am" and "please" "thank you" and " you are welcome" in your conversations. It is your responsibility to learn these things, and it is the adult's right to insist that you learn them.
You are not entitled to the same "respect" as adults because you are not an adult--yet! When an adult tells you to comb your hair, pull up your pants, and look like a "prospect" instead of a "suspect"--listen to them! We have been down those "roads" before and we see how dangerous they can be. Your self-esteem will not suffer. And if it does, you will get over it. You will be grateful that someone cared enough about you to not let you "self-destruct".
Your friends are not always right. And if they live "without boundaries" chances are they are usually wrong. Show them what an intelligent, maturing person looks like, from your own example.
You can wear cheaper clothes, and cheaper shoes, and still live! The world will not stop rotating if you have to look "normal" and "presentable."
Respect your school teachers. Insisting that you learn and not be a "thug" the rest of your life is not abuse! It is what the taxpayers of this nation expect and deserve. If you are truly being abused, make sure that you tell an adult, and then let us help you. But insisting that you "learn the lessons" and become a productive member of the society is our right...and it is your responsibility.
We have had a rash of violence on the city's South side. I have been deeply troubled by all the "gun violence" and other forms of criminal activity that regularly makes the news here in Chicago.
I've lived here almost eight years, and it has troubled me for almost that entire time. I'm glad that Mayor Daley's office finally recognized that "parents" have responsibilities too. Now, if the parents will believe that ONE concept.
However, I was a teenager not too many years ago (less than 30 years ago), and I grew up without all the "stuff" that many teens (and their families) think necessary for survival today. I have some things for our "society" to think about.
First, for the parents:
Telling your child "NO" and meaning it, (and being willing to enforce the consequences) is not child abuse. It is your responsibility. This is particularly important when it comes to curfews, homework, and respect. If that child lives under your roof, eats from your table, then he/she should be served notice: they will observe and obey YOUR rules. That is your responsibility.
Knowing where your child is before, during, and after school hours is not "spying" on your children. It is YOUR responsibility to know where they are, and what they are doing.
Knowing your child's friends and other relationships is YOUR responsibility...it is not "emotionally abusing" to anyone...and particularly not to your child(ren).
Knowing (and respecting) your child's school teacher is YOUR responsibility. His/her job is already difficult enough, because 9 times out of 10, they are having to teach "your child" things that you should have taught them in the first place...IN YOUR HOME. Be grateful for your child's teacher, and support them every opportunity that comes along.
Telling your child that guns, gangs, and sexual activity are OFF-LIMITS to them (and meaning it) is your responsibility. Their "self-esteem" will be in much better shape when you give them boundaries, and consequences. They need both. We do not need more "babies" having babies, and "children" raising children. Abstinence still works. Your children must know this, and you must tell them. Abstinence from GUNS, GANGS, and SEXUAL ACTIVITY (until they are much more prepared than they currently are) is possible.
For the child/teenager:
I grew up without the love and guidance of my natural parents. They abandoned me when I was very, very small. But what I did have was alot of grown-ups who cared about me enough to make sure that I got a good education, and learned how to find my place in the society. I have some advice for you too:
It is not abuse when an adult insists that you use good manners. This includes "sir, ma'am" and "please" "thank you" and " you are welcome" in your conversations. It is your responsibility to learn these things, and it is the adult's right to insist that you learn them.
You are not entitled to the same "respect" as adults because you are not an adult--yet! When an adult tells you to comb your hair, pull up your pants, and look like a "prospect" instead of a "suspect"--listen to them! We have been down those "roads" before and we see how dangerous they can be. Your self-esteem will not suffer. And if it does, you will get over it. You will be grateful that someone cared enough about you to not let you "self-destruct".
Your friends are not always right. And if they live "without boundaries" chances are they are usually wrong. Show them what an intelligent, maturing person looks like, from your own example.
You can wear cheaper clothes, and cheaper shoes, and still live! The world will not stop rotating if you have to look "normal" and "presentable."
Respect your school teachers. Insisting that you learn and not be a "thug" the rest of your life is not abuse! It is what the taxpayers of this nation expect and deserve. If you are truly being abused, make sure that you tell an adult, and then let us help you. But insisting that you "learn the lessons" and become a productive member of the society is our right...and it is your responsibility.
"Stimulation Addiction"...We are Paying the Price...
I recently had a conversation with a very close "family" member, and they were telling me how "tired" they always seem to be--exhaustion is their current state of life. I did my best to must as much sympathy as I possibly could, but for some reason I wanted to say, "It's all your own fault."
This friend/family member has two almost-teenaged children, a boy and a girl. These two "almost teenagers" are constantly on the go: doing something every waking hour of the day. They are in school during the normal hours, then participate in every extra-curricular activity imaginable when they are not "in school." And they are not even teenagers yet!
This family doesn't have a clue what it means to be "still, and unoccupied"--not even for a few hours. I feel sorry for them.
Here's why:
Our entire culture seems to be addicted to activity and stimulation of one type or another.
All the time.
We make sure that something is stimulating our minds, nerves, or bodies at all times. We have long lost the concept of being "still" and just "being." It's the television, or the computer, or the radio, or the baseball/basketball/football/rugby/soccer et al and we never know when to say "it's enough. Now we are just going to enjoy each other, and the peace and quiet of life."
If it's not a cup of coffee (which these days more resembles a "chemistry experiment"), then it's something else that has to get us "jump started." That's a very sad commentary on what "contemporary culture" has become.
No wonder the Scriptures admonish us to "be still and know"....we seem to have so much 'going on' around us...but "know" so very little. We are constantly "on the go" and miss so much that God has to tell us, show us, and do within us.
I remember telling a friend (some years ago) that God often speaks clearly to me when I am in the shower in the mornings...and as funny as that may sound, it was true at the time. It seems that was the only time the Lord could have my complete attention....and it's not a very flattering commentary on my ability/desire/opportunities to "listen."
So, what do you think? Are you 'stimulation-addicted'? How do you know? What do you propose to do about it?
This friend/family member has two almost-teenaged children, a boy and a girl. These two "almost teenagers" are constantly on the go: doing something every waking hour of the day. They are in school during the normal hours, then participate in every extra-curricular activity imaginable when they are not "in school." And they are not even teenagers yet!
This family doesn't have a clue what it means to be "still, and unoccupied"--not even for a few hours. I feel sorry for them.
Here's why:
Our entire culture seems to be addicted to activity and stimulation of one type or another.
All the time.
We make sure that something is stimulating our minds, nerves, or bodies at all times. We have long lost the concept of being "still" and just "being." It's the television, or the computer, or the radio, or the baseball/basketball/football/rugby/soccer et al and we never know when to say "it's enough. Now we are just going to enjoy each other, and the peace and quiet of life."
If it's not a cup of coffee (which these days more resembles a "chemistry experiment"), then it's something else that has to get us "jump started." That's a very sad commentary on what "contemporary culture" has become.
No wonder the Scriptures admonish us to "be still and know"....we seem to have so much 'going on' around us...but "know" so very little. We are constantly "on the go" and miss so much that God has to tell us, show us, and do within us.
I remember telling a friend (some years ago) that God often speaks clearly to me when I am in the shower in the mornings...and as funny as that may sound, it was true at the time. It seems that was the only time the Lord could have my complete attention....and it's not a very flattering commentary on my ability/desire/opportunities to "listen."
So, what do you think? Are you 'stimulation-addicted'? How do you know? What do you propose to do about it?
A Cause for GREAT ALARM...
Many thanks to my friend, Pastor Jim Martin (out in the "Midwest") for this wonderful satire:
I see on the news that wind generators are popping up all over the United States. This causes me grave concern. I'm afraid that if every state in the union starts building wind generators, then all of our wind will be used up and we'll be forced to become dependent upon foreign wind. Do you realize that right now we have no wind reserve set up. This is a resource and must be managed correctly. If not, one day we'll go outside and want to fly a kite and be unable to because there will be no wind left for the common man. It will be all controlled by foreign own wind magnates with no concern for the well-being of the American people. All they will be interested in is making a profit and having enough wind for themselves. I think we also need to look at developing alternative sources of wind lest one day all the wind be used up and the people be left without power.
I have confidently assured him that as "long as there are Preachers and other public speakers, we will not have a shortage of either wind or hot air."
What say ye?
I see on the news that wind generators are popping up all over the United States. This causes me grave concern. I'm afraid that if every state in the union starts building wind generators, then all of our wind will be used up and we'll be forced to become dependent upon foreign wind. Do you realize that right now we have no wind reserve set up. This is a resource and must be managed correctly. If not, one day we'll go outside and want to fly a kite and be unable to because there will be no wind left for the common man. It will be all controlled by foreign own wind magnates with no concern for the well-being of the American people. All they will be interested in is making a profit and having enough wind for themselves. I think we also need to look at developing alternative sources of wind lest one day all the wind be used up and the people be left without power.
I have confidently assured him that as "long as there are Preachers and other public speakers, we will not have a shortage of either wind or hot air."
What say ye?
Happy Birthday, Raymond Pruitt: Eighty-Six Years Young!
One of my "heroes" in life celebrates his 86th birthday today!
Bishop Raymond M Pruitt, one of those gentle giants of the Pentecostal tradition and a lifetime hero of mine, turned 86 today.
I first met Raymond Pruitt when I was just a snotty-nosed teenager in the West Huntsville (AL) Church many years ago. At the time, he was a professor at Tomlinson College in Cleveland, TN. He is a prolific author, an extremely capable administrator--having served as overseer in Nebraska, Hawaii, Kansas, England, Canada, and elsewhere. His son Jim, and daughter-in-law, Mary Grace, were members of the West Huntsville congregation. Thus, I got to know, love and adore the Pruitt family. I loved them then, and now more than thirty years later, I still love them.
Bishop Pruitt and his wonderful wife Aleda began their ministry many years ago right here in Chicago. Few people have encouraged me over the last 3+ decades the way that Raymond Pruitt has encouraged me. Whether I was in the military, in seminary, or just living "life", this humble and godly man has always had a "timely" word of love and appreciation for me. There have been times when I just felt like calling he and Sister Pruitt to let them know how much they have meant to me over the years. I'm glad that I did. Both of them are such treasures in my life.
I could say so much about Raymond M. Pruitt. Right now, all I want to say is
Happy Birthday!
Bishop Raymond M Pruitt, one of those gentle giants of the Pentecostal tradition and a lifetime hero of mine, turned 86 today.
I first met Raymond Pruitt when I was just a snotty-nosed teenager in the West Huntsville (AL) Church many years ago. At the time, he was a professor at Tomlinson College in Cleveland, TN. He is a prolific author, an extremely capable administrator--having served as overseer in Nebraska, Hawaii, Kansas, England, Canada, and elsewhere. His son Jim, and daughter-in-law, Mary Grace, were members of the West Huntsville congregation. Thus, I got to know, love and adore the Pruitt family. I loved them then, and now more than thirty years later, I still love them.
Bishop Pruitt and his wonderful wife Aleda began their ministry many years ago right here in Chicago. Few people have encouraged me over the last 3+ decades the way that Raymond Pruitt has encouraged me. Whether I was in the military, in seminary, or just living "life", this humble and godly man has always had a "timely" word of love and appreciation for me. There have been times when I just felt like calling he and Sister Pruitt to let them know how much they have meant to me over the years. I'm glad that I did. Both of them are such treasures in my life.
I could say so much about Raymond M. Pruitt. Right now, all I want to say is
Happy Birthday!
Pope Benedict XVI and 45,000 people in Washington, DC
Let me say, first of all, that we Americans are delighted that the Bishop of Rome has come to visit the United States. His bright red shoes (8.5 shoe size, USA standards), his incredible intellect, and his good heart will definitely bring "something" to us during his very brief stay here on this side of the Big Pond.
But what about those forty-five thousand people who gathered into the baseball stadium in the District of Columbia to see "the Vicar of Christ"? I'm wondering if any of these people who were so "pleased and delighted and blest" to see the Pontiff will truly seek after the Christ whom He supposedly represents.
Now don't get me wrong here. I have MANY, MANY friends who are Roman Catholic. A few years ago, I had even given it a brief (yet very serious) consideration myself. Yet, somewhere in the depth of my "heart of hearts" I knew the corruption and contradictions the "Church of Rome" has made of the Holy Scriptures.
I always admired Pope John Paul II (Karol Wotilya), and was tremendously saddened when he died a few years ago. I felt then (and I feel now) that JP2 was a tremendous world leader, a great man of integrity, and someone who truly possessed a personal relationship with the Christ he proclaimed.
For the next few days, His Holiness Benedict XVI will have the world's attention while he is here in the United States--and that is as it should be. But what about all those "adoring faithful" once he leaves and returns to the "Eternal City"?
What about my Catholic friends who think nothing of regular drunkenness, sexual immorality, lack of personal integrity, and the "emptiness" of their rituals (once they get around to performing them)?
What about those "Catholics" who claim to see "The Blessed Virgin Mary" every time there is an unusual "natural phenomenon" (strong water stains, abnormal salt deposits)? While the Pope represents some 70 million Catholics in the USA, I wonder how many of them are really concerned about the Son of God that he preaches? Many will believe every report of the "miraculous" but won't come near the "truth of the Gospel" to save their lives and the life of those they love the most.
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life..No man comes to the Father except by Me."
I hope that 45,000 people remember that tonite, when the revelry and excitement of the "German Shepherd" has been muffled.
But what about those forty-five thousand people who gathered into the baseball stadium in the District of Columbia to see "the Vicar of Christ"? I'm wondering if any of these people who were so "pleased and delighted and blest" to see the Pontiff will truly seek after the Christ whom He supposedly represents.
Now don't get me wrong here. I have MANY, MANY friends who are Roman Catholic. A few years ago, I had even given it a brief (yet very serious) consideration myself. Yet, somewhere in the depth of my "heart of hearts" I knew the corruption and contradictions the "Church of Rome" has made of the Holy Scriptures.
I always admired Pope John Paul II (Karol Wotilya), and was tremendously saddened when he died a few years ago. I felt then (and I feel now) that JP2 was a tremendous world leader, a great man of integrity, and someone who truly possessed a personal relationship with the Christ he proclaimed.
For the next few days, His Holiness Benedict XVI will have the world's attention while he is here in the United States--and that is as it should be. But what about all those "adoring faithful" once he leaves and returns to the "Eternal City"?
What about my Catholic friends who think nothing of regular drunkenness, sexual immorality, lack of personal integrity, and the "emptiness" of their rituals (once they get around to performing them)?
What about those "Catholics" who claim to see "The Blessed Virgin Mary" every time there is an unusual "natural phenomenon" (strong water stains, abnormal salt deposits)? While the Pope represents some 70 million Catholics in the USA, I wonder how many of them are really concerned about the Son of God that he preaches? Many will believe every report of the "miraculous" but won't come near the "truth of the Gospel" to save their lives and the life of those they love the most.
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life..No man comes to the Father except by Me."
I hope that 45,000 people remember that tonite, when the revelry and excitement of the "German Shepherd" has been muffled.
What would "they" say about you?
At a men's small group meeting last Saturday morning, it was my responsibility to "lead the Bible discussion." I found out the week before that I was being "tagged" to lead the group's gathering for the following Saturday morning.
I thought all week about what we could discuss. I wanted to stay away from the "deep theological issues" (eschatology, pneumatology, etc). I felt that we should think about the "common stuff" in Scriptures that we often whiz right by, without paying much attention to what is there.
Here is the passage I used:
1 I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, 2 that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.
3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house.
Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. 6 Greet Mary, who labored much for us. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
8 Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. 10 Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.
12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.
__________________________________________________
If a church member was writing a letter that would possibly be read many years after it's writing, and your name was mentioned, what would be said about you?
Personally, I think Paul was doing more than just mentioning people who were "co-laborers" in the Gospel. I believe he was pointing out people who were "special" and had much to offer, and had the reputation for being everything a good faithful Christian should be. (We find in other passages where he was not so complimentary towards some folks).
So, now I ask the question: "If a member of your local church were writing a letter to be read to posterity years later, what would they say about you?"
I thought all week about what we could discuss. I wanted to stay away from the "deep theological issues" (eschatology, pneumatology, etc). I felt that we should think about the "common stuff" in Scriptures that we often whiz right by, without paying much attention to what is there.
Here is the passage I used:
1 I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, 2 that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.
3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house.
Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. 6 Greet Mary, who labored much for us. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
8 Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. 10 Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.
12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.
__________________________________________________
If a church member was writing a letter that would possibly be read many years after it's writing, and your name was mentioned, what would be said about you?
Personally, I think Paul was doing more than just mentioning people who were "co-laborers" in the Gospel. I believe he was pointing out people who were "special" and had much to offer, and had the reputation for being everything a good faithful Christian should be. (We find in other passages where he was not so complimentary towards some folks).
So, now I ask the question: "If a member of your local church were writing a letter to be read to posterity years later, what would they say about you?"
President Carter...Go home...
And stay there!
You have no business being in the Palestinian territory and negotiating anything with HAMAS.
You are a great man, and I have tremendous respect for you...but you have OVERSTEPPED your authority, and have brought an embarrassment to the United States, the Israelis, and the mutual allies of both countries.
You have had your time in the "limelight"....so go back to Plains, and be the "great former President" for which you have a reputation.
You have no business being in the Palestinian territory and negotiating anything with HAMAS.
You are a great man, and I have tremendous respect for you...but you have OVERSTEPPED your authority, and have brought an embarrassment to the United States, the Israelis, and the mutual allies of both countries.
You have had your time in the "limelight"....so go back to Plains, and be the "great former President" for which you have a reputation.
Confessions....Here goes...
I do believe that good, honest confession is necessary in the life of every believer.
First, it helps us to actually face our life and give it an evaluation that we otherwise would prefer to avoid.
Second, we allow ourselves to dig "deep" and find all of those "things" that we have so masterfully hidden from everyone, except God.
Finally, confession reminds us that we are still mortals, living in a fallen world.
Confessions:
1) I have battled with very deep-rooted insecurities for most of my life. I'm always wondering if I am "good enough..."
2) I've learned how to have a healthy "love" for my person--without being arrogant or cocky. Of course, in doing so, you never ever believe the "press reports."
3) I'm pretty sure that I will never get married. I'm 46 years old now, and don't see "wedded bliss" in my future. And quite honestly, that doesn't BOTHER me as much as it bothers some of the people who "love me."
4) I've pretty much decided that the "Richter Scale of public opinion" is not the way to live life. I'm a "pleaser" for the most part--but there are some folk who will never be pleased. I've stopped trying to pacify them.
5) My brothers and sisters in the Lord are my "real family." I place a high value on the local church, and on the kingdom of God. These people are the only "real family" that I've known.
6) My biological relatives are the most dysfunctional people in the whole world....or at least, they once were.
7) I enjoy being alone (sometimes), and am rarely "lonely." I know the difference between the two concepts.
8) I hate housework...and I can't afford a maid.
9) I'm pretty easy to please, most of the time. I realized long ago that the universe doesn't revolve around me....or you either.
10) The most precious times in my adult life have been when I knew God was doing something very special for someone, and allowed me to be part of what He was doing. He gets all the credit.
First, it helps us to actually face our life and give it an evaluation that we otherwise would prefer to avoid.
Second, we allow ourselves to dig "deep" and find all of those "things" that we have so masterfully hidden from everyone, except God.
Finally, confession reminds us that we are still mortals, living in a fallen world.
Confessions:
1) I have battled with very deep-rooted insecurities for most of my life. I'm always wondering if I am "good enough..."
2) I've learned how to have a healthy "love" for my person--without being arrogant or cocky. Of course, in doing so, you never ever believe the "press reports."
3) I'm pretty sure that I will never get married. I'm 46 years old now, and don't see "wedded bliss" in my future. And quite honestly, that doesn't BOTHER me as much as it bothers some of the people who "love me."
4) I've pretty much decided that the "Richter Scale of public opinion" is not the way to live life. I'm a "pleaser" for the most part--but there are some folk who will never be pleased. I've stopped trying to pacify them.
5) My brothers and sisters in the Lord are my "real family." I place a high value on the local church, and on the kingdom of God. These people are the only "real family" that I've known.
6) My biological relatives are the most dysfunctional people in the whole world....or at least, they once were.
7) I enjoy being alone (sometimes), and am rarely "lonely." I know the difference between the two concepts.
8) I hate housework...and I can't afford a maid.
9) I'm pretty easy to please, most of the time. I realized long ago that the universe doesn't revolve around me....or you either.
10) The most precious times in my adult life have been when I knew God was doing something very special for someone, and allowed me to be part of what He was doing. He gets all the credit.
How far does "Honor thy Father and Mother" go?
Here's something that continues to "stir around" in my small, 3lbs of gray matter:
WTTW-11 (The marvelous PBS station here in Chicago) aired a program last week entitled, "Caring for Your Parents." The main thrust of the documentary was what children often encounter when one or more parent(s) become incapable of caring for themselves. It was a tremendous look at four or five different family situations, and how these people handled the complexities of aging, incapacitated fathers and mothers.
My dilemma:
My parents abandoned me when I was a baby. To be completely honest, they abandoned each other, and later abandoned me. Neither parent ever "stepped up to the plate" and rendered the care that an infant/small child/youngster/teenager should have received.
Not at any point in life.
I've not seen nor heard from my biological father in almost 16 years (the last time being at his mother's funeral--my real caregiver until I left home for college). He was drunk at the funeral home viewing, and then almost drunk during the actual funeral service the following day. He has made no contact with me. I have no idea how to find him (not that I am,particularly itching to do so), and really don't know whether he is dead or alive. I'm pretty sure he is alive--or I would have already heard something from someone (at least I like to think that I would have been contacted). He divorced my stepmother (Marie, whom I absolutely adore), and basically abandoned his three children (my two half sisters, and half brother). The fundamental difference is that these three children were pretty much grown before the divorce happened. But that doesn't make it any less painful for them.
My two half-sisters (Cynthia and Sherry) feel the same way about him. He dropped out of their lives, and has had little if any contact with either of them. When he has "dropped in" he has been either intoxicated and completely embarrassing to both of them. I feel as they do: there's no love, no hate...but alot of indifference. It's not a matter of "forgiveness" either...that has already happened, and continues to happen as needed.
But what about that "3 a.m. call" (since that seems to be the ONLY TIME that "emergencies" can possibly happen, according to the current three Senators running for the White House) that says, "Mr Hoover, we have Bobby here, and we need someone to make some decisions..." I'm almost 700 miles away, and I'm not sure how I would/could/should respond.
What obligation do I, as a Christian who wants to be obedient to God's Word and will, have to this man, if I am contacted and told that he is completely incapacitated, and needs constant care?
Do I have any ethical, moral, or spiritual obligation to "care" for someone who abandoned me early in life, and has dropped out of my life (at his own convenience) ever since?
I really do want your opinions and ideas. Please share. I will be discussing my biological mother in a subsequent post.
WTTW-11 (The marvelous PBS station here in Chicago) aired a program last week entitled, "Caring for Your Parents." The main thrust of the documentary was what children often encounter when one or more parent(s) become incapable of caring for themselves. It was a tremendous look at four or five different family situations, and how these people handled the complexities of aging, incapacitated fathers and mothers.
My dilemma:
My parents abandoned me when I was a baby. To be completely honest, they abandoned each other, and later abandoned me. Neither parent ever "stepped up to the plate" and rendered the care that an infant/small child/youngster/teenager should have received.
Not at any point in life.
I've not seen nor heard from my biological father in almost 16 years (the last time being at his mother's funeral--my real caregiver until I left home for college). He was drunk at the funeral home viewing, and then almost drunk during the actual funeral service the following day. He has made no contact with me. I have no idea how to find him (not that I am,particularly itching to do so), and really don't know whether he is dead or alive. I'm pretty sure he is alive--or I would have already heard something from someone (at least I like to think that I would have been contacted). He divorced my stepmother (Marie, whom I absolutely adore), and basically abandoned his three children (my two half sisters, and half brother). The fundamental difference is that these three children were pretty much grown before the divorce happened. But that doesn't make it any less painful for them.
My two half-sisters (Cynthia and Sherry) feel the same way about him. He dropped out of their lives, and has had little if any contact with either of them. When he has "dropped in" he has been either intoxicated and completely embarrassing to both of them. I feel as they do: there's no love, no hate...but alot of indifference. It's not a matter of "forgiveness" either...that has already happened, and continues to happen as needed.
But what about that "3 a.m. call" (since that seems to be the ONLY TIME that "emergencies" can possibly happen, according to the current three Senators running for the White House) that says, "Mr Hoover, we have Bobby here, and we need someone to make some decisions..." I'm almost 700 miles away, and I'm not sure how I would/could/should respond.
What obligation do I, as a Christian who wants to be obedient to God's Word and will, have to this man, if I am contacted and told that he is completely incapacitated, and needs constant care?
Do I have any ethical, moral, or spiritual obligation to "care" for someone who abandoned me early in life, and has dropped out of my life (at his own convenience) ever since?
I really do want your opinions and ideas. Please share. I will be discussing my biological mother in a subsequent post.
Elianna Joy Brucato is here!
My "first" god-child is here: Miss Elianna Joy Brucato made her entrance last night around 6:20 p.m. She weighed in at 9 lbs, 7 ounces. I can hardly wait to go see her!
Her parents are precious friends of mine. Her dad, Mark Brucato, and I have been friends--very close friends for 7+ years now. Ruth--the wonderful, gorgeous, and exhausted mom of the bundle of love--is a marvelous, and terrific person in her own right. Hailing from Southern California, she met Mark when they were both students at the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago. Ruth's parents have been missionaries in Africa for many years.
Andrew and Linda Brucato (Elianna's ecstatic paternal grandparents) are missionaries in the Bologna region of Italy. Mark, along with his three brothers, (Ben, Luke, Michael) grew up in Italy, and until a few years ago, were more 'at home' in the Mediterranean than they were here in the United States. After all, when you grow up in the "land of Pizza and Pasta" that seems to be a given.
Back in November of last year, Mark and Ruth asked me to be the "godparent" of this wonderful little girl. Just the fact that I would be asked was such an honor, and it brought warm tears to my eyes. Since I've never married and have no children of my own, this is the next best thing.
Now I am a "godparent"--and I'm ecstatic....as soon as I see her, I'll give you all an update.
Her parents are precious friends of mine. Her dad, Mark Brucato, and I have been friends--very close friends for 7+ years now. Ruth--the wonderful, gorgeous, and exhausted mom of the bundle of love--is a marvelous, and terrific person in her own right. Hailing from Southern California, she met Mark when they were both students at the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago. Ruth's parents have been missionaries in Africa for many years.
Andrew and Linda Brucato (Elianna's ecstatic paternal grandparents) are missionaries in the Bologna region of Italy. Mark, along with his three brothers, (Ben, Luke, Michael) grew up in Italy, and until a few years ago, were more 'at home' in the Mediterranean than they were here in the United States. After all, when you grow up in the "land of Pizza and Pasta" that seems to be a given.
Back in November of last year, Mark and Ruth asked me to be the "godparent" of this wonderful little girl. Just the fact that I would be asked was such an honor, and it brought warm tears to my eyes. Since I've never married and have no children of my own, this is the next best thing.
Now I am a "godparent"--and I'm ecstatic....as soon as I see her, I'll give you all an update.
Think about these....
Here's some "gems" that I want to offer to my "vast readership"...LOL
1) It would be nice to have taxation without misrepresentation.
2) You can't spend yourself rich any more than you can "drink" yourself sober.
3) Summer is when kids slam the doors they left open all winter.
4) It's amazing how many things people turn on and off during the day--including other people.
5) He who gives in when he is wrong is wise. He who gives in when he is right is married.
6) Stickability is 95 percent of ability.
7) There aren't enough crutches in the world for all the lame excuses.
8) Dollars and sense do not always travel together.
9) The average man has probably thought twice about runing away from home: Once as a child, and the once as a husband.
10) " The gum-chewing student and the cud-chewing cow
Look quite alike, but they're different somehow.
What is the difference? I see it all now--
It's the intelligent look on the face of the cow!"
11) Ever notice how many people are "mistaken" at the top of their voice?
12) Poise is looking like an owl after behaving like a jackass.
13) If you can't stand solitude, then you probably bore others too!
14) A prune is a plum that has seen better days!
15) Middle age is when you begin to exchange emotions for symptoms!
16) Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side-effects.
17) A good sermon is one that goes over your head on Sunday--and then hits your neighbor!
18) The reason the Ten Commandments are "short and sweet" is that they were handed down "direct" and not through several committees.
19) If at first you succeed, try to hide your astonishment.
20) It doesn't make you an angel to be "always in the air" and "harping on something."
1) It would be nice to have taxation without misrepresentation.
2) You can't spend yourself rich any more than you can "drink" yourself sober.
3) Summer is when kids slam the doors they left open all winter.
4) It's amazing how many things people turn on and off during the day--including other people.
5) He who gives in when he is wrong is wise. He who gives in when he is right is married.
6) Stickability is 95 percent of ability.
7) There aren't enough crutches in the world for all the lame excuses.
8) Dollars and sense do not always travel together.
9) The average man has probably thought twice about runing away from home: Once as a child, and the once as a husband.
10) " The gum-chewing student and the cud-chewing cow
Look quite alike, but they're different somehow.
What is the difference? I see it all now--
It's the intelligent look on the face of the cow!"
11) Ever notice how many people are "mistaken" at the top of their voice?
12) Poise is looking like an owl after behaving like a jackass.
13) If you can't stand solitude, then you probably bore others too!
14) A prune is a plum that has seen better days!
15) Middle age is when you begin to exchange emotions for symptoms!
16) Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side-effects.
17) A good sermon is one that goes over your head on Sunday--and then hits your neighbor!
18) The reason the Ten Commandments are "short and sweet" is that they were handed down "direct" and not through several committees.
19) If at first you succeed, try to hide your astonishment.
20) It doesn't make you an angel to be "always in the air" and "harping on something."
Forty Years Ago Today...
Doctor Martin Luther King Jr was brutally assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. This nation lost an important and vital voice for the "rights of all human beings". I was a small child, barely 6 years old, and remember hearing my grandmother talking about the news reports on the television of this horrible, horrible tragedy. It was senseless then, and it's still senseless today.
May God help us to learn the "real lessons" from Dr King's legacy.
May God help us to learn the "real lessons" from Dr King's legacy.
Frank Howard: On to Glory!
Deacon Frank Howard--a man whom I've known, loved, and admired for more than 25 years, escaped the prison bars of his body this morning, and took his One-Way Flight to Heaven!
Brother Howard was a true original. He was one of the kindest, and most gracious men to ever live in Cleveland, TN. His wife, Elva Howard, was the Director of Women's Ministries for the Church of God of Prophecy for more than thirty years, and a powerful, powerful preacher/minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet, the "stability" and "rock" in their home was her husband, and she gladly acknowledges his wonderful, wonderful leadership.
I am always at such a loss when one of these precious saints of God leaves this earth. These are people who are my heroes. They have been my heroes for the greater majority of my life. These are the true spiritual GIANTS--men and women who stand so tall in life....yet have lived and served with humility that is beyond description, and beyond imagination for so many of us. In a world where we have the "gimme, gimme, take, take" syndrome/disease sweeping the land, Frank Howard was completely immune to such selfish nonsense. He was a deacon in the Peerless Road Church for many, many years. He was as faithful to his local church as the sun is to come up in the morning, and the nightfall to fulfill it's assignment.
Frank Howard was a real pray-er. He prayed like a prophet, a warrior, and a child. This gentle saint of God knew how to "bombard" Heaven with his prayers, and how to believe God for the answers to all he petitioned. He knew how to praise his Lord. He knew how to live in the humility and kindness that seems all but forgotten in contemporary society.
His wonderful wife Elva, his precious children Kathy Creasy and Randy Howard, are his great legacy to this world who desperately needs "heroes worthy emulating."
Frank Howard was such a hero.
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." And this one was precious to God.
Brother Howard was a true original. He was one of the kindest, and most gracious men to ever live in Cleveland, TN. His wife, Elva Howard, was the Director of Women's Ministries for the Church of God of Prophecy for more than thirty years, and a powerful, powerful preacher/minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet, the "stability" and "rock" in their home was her husband, and she gladly acknowledges his wonderful, wonderful leadership.
I am always at such a loss when one of these precious saints of God leaves this earth. These are people who are my heroes. They have been my heroes for the greater majority of my life. These are the true spiritual GIANTS--men and women who stand so tall in life....yet have lived and served with humility that is beyond description, and beyond imagination for so many of us. In a world where we have the "gimme, gimme, take, take" syndrome/disease sweeping the land, Frank Howard was completely immune to such selfish nonsense. He was a deacon in the Peerless Road Church for many, many years. He was as faithful to his local church as the sun is to come up in the morning, and the nightfall to fulfill it's assignment.
Frank Howard was a real pray-er. He prayed like a prophet, a warrior, and a child. This gentle saint of God knew how to "bombard" Heaven with his prayers, and how to believe God for the answers to all he petitioned. He knew how to praise his Lord. He knew how to live in the humility and kindness that seems all but forgotten in contemporary society.
His wonderful wife Elva, his precious children Kathy Creasy and Randy Howard, are his great legacy to this world who desperately needs "heroes worthy emulating."
Frank Howard was such a hero.
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." And this one was precious to God.
"His Music"...
I am a huge fan of Cynthia Clawson's music and ministry. Here's the last song from a recording titled, "The Way I Feel" released in 1978--thirty years ago:
A simple gift is all I have to bring to Him
To sing to Him, my love song.
To share as best I can about His blessing every day
How He hears me when I pray,
and He never turns away,
To use the very voice He gave to praise Him thankfully,
To put in words the way I feel and what He means to me:
When it's "spring" in my heart,
My Lord's the season,
And love's the easiest part,
He's the reason!
Whenever the sounds that often surround me
fall like sadness on my ears
I close my eyes till I hear HIS MUSIC.
When I'm lost and afraid,
My Lord's beside me
And though my direction has strayed
He will guide me.
Whenever I chance to dance to the piper
Who only brings me tears,
I look to Jesus and hear HIS MUSIC.
His music is the truest love song ever sung
It's for everyone, all children, old and young.
And if I reach a hundred I know there will never be another melody,
that's like the one HE sings to me.
For when I'm in the day
My Lord's the sunrise
For there's no clouds in the way
He's the strong and gentle wind,
And I'm so glad that He has given me
Much more than wealth or fame
He's called me by His name
And that's why I proclaim
The message of His grace....
Through HIS MUSIC!
________________________________
Cynthia has this to say about "His Music":
George (Gagliardi) said he wanted to write a song to help me express how I felt about singing "His Music." I am grateful to have a friend who understands--I remember George had just snashed his finger in the car door and was really in pain. But he wanted to play this song for me. He played the right hand and sang--I played the left hand and wept. Black and white keys, red stains, friends clustered around a studio piano sharing "the way I feel and what He means to me."
I've been a fan of Cynthia's music for many years...and I feel like weeping tears of great worship every time I hear this particular song.
Let it minister to you. Visit her website...www.cynthiaclawson.com
A simple gift is all I have to bring to Him
To sing to Him, my love song.
To share as best I can about His blessing every day
How He hears me when I pray,
and He never turns away,
To use the very voice He gave to praise Him thankfully,
To put in words the way I feel and what He means to me:
When it's "spring" in my heart,
My Lord's the season,
And love's the easiest part,
He's the reason!
Whenever the sounds that often surround me
fall like sadness on my ears
I close my eyes till I hear HIS MUSIC.
When I'm lost and afraid,
My Lord's beside me
And though my direction has strayed
He will guide me.
Whenever I chance to dance to the piper
Who only brings me tears,
I look to Jesus and hear HIS MUSIC.
His music is the truest love song ever sung
It's for everyone, all children, old and young.
And if I reach a hundred I know there will never be another melody,
that's like the one HE sings to me.
For when I'm in the day
My Lord's the sunrise
For there's no clouds in the way
He's the strong and gentle wind,
And I'm so glad that He has given me
Much more than wealth or fame
He's called me by His name
And that's why I proclaim
The message of His grace....
Through HIS MUSIC!
________________________________
Cynthia has this to say about "His Music":
George (Gagliardi) said he wanted to write a song to help me express how I felt about singing "His Music." I am grateful to have a friend who understands--I remember George had just snashed his finger in the car door and was really in pain. But he wanted to play this song for me. He played the right hand and sang--I played the left hand and wept. Black and white keys, red stains, friends clustered around a studio piano sharing "the way I feel and what He means to me."
I've been a fan of Cynthia's music for many years...and I feel like weeping tears of great worship every time I hear this particular song.
Let it minister to you. Visit her website...www.cynthiaclawson.com
Dear Senator McCain...
Dear Senator McCain,
Congratulations on winning the nomination of the Republican Party for the Presidency of the United States. I have every intention of voting for you in November. You were my choice for the GOP nomination in 2000, before you were "hi-jacked" and "side-swiped" by all the "Bushies" that were running rampant across the country.
Right now, Senator, it looks like the General Election is yours to lose. But, please don't. I'm not sure I would be able to hold my head up if we get another "on-the-job training" President--a "President Obama". We have already had the "OJT" President, and he's about to return to Crawford, Texas. And not a moment too soon.
I applaud you for your wonderful service to this country. Your years as a Marine, as a congressional representative, and as a United States Senator give you far superior experience to either of the Democratic potentials for the Oval Office. While I admire Senator Clinton's knowledge, tenacity and ability, I admire yours even more. You have my vote...
Unless you royally screw it up between now and the General Election.
I don't anticipate you doing that.
Senator, we have lots of problems in this nation...and the Iraq War is only a tip of the iceberg. Our infrastructure is pretty much in shambles. Our national debts and deficits are absolutely INSANE and UNCONSCIONABLE (except to the Bush Administration, of course). Our obligations to our military personnel must be met...and without delay, or bureaucratic boggling.
I know and trust your ability to help us "wade" through these issues.
Please pick someone as your running mate who will actually listen to the nation....unlike the current Vice President. No one says that "political leaders" have to "agree" with everything. As we all know, the "Richter scale" of public opinion is fickle at best. But those same elected leaders must be willing to "hear" and "listen"---or at least give us a believable pretense of listening.
The current administration hasn't even pretended to "listen." Sad, indeed
Senator McCain, I will be proud to call you "President McCain." Good luck, and God bless you.
Congratulations on winning the nomination of the Republican Party for the Presidency of the United States. I have every intention of voting for you in November. You were my choice for the GOP nomination in 2000, before you were "hi-jacked" and "side-swiped" by all the "Bushies" that were running rampant across the country.
Right now, Senator, it looks like the General Election is yours to lose. But, please don't. I'm not sure I would be able to hold my head up if we get another "on-the-job training" President--a "President Obama". We have already had the "OJT" President, and he's about to return to Crawford, Texas. And not a moment too soon.
I applaud you for your wonderful service to this country. Your years as a Marine, as a congressional representative, and as a United States Senator give you far superior experience to either of the Democratic potentials for the Oval Office. While I admire Senator Clinton's knowledge, tenacity and ability, I admire yours even more. You have my vote...
Unless you royally screw it up between now and the General Election.
I don't anticipate you doing that.
Senator, we have lots of problems in this nation...and the Iraq War is only a tip of the iceberg. Our infrastructure is pretty much in shambles. Our national debts and deficits are absolutely INSANE and UNCONSCIONABLE (except to the Bush Administration, of course). Our obligations to our military personnel must be met...and without delay, or bureaucratic boggling.
I know and trust your ability to help us "wade" through these issues.
Please pick someone as your running mate who will actually listen to the nation....unlike the current Vice President. No one says that "political leaders" have to "agree" with everything. As we all know, the "Richter scale" of public opinion is fickle at best. But those same elected leaders must be willing to "hear" and "listen"---or at least give us a believable pretense of listening.
The current administration hasn't even pretended to "listen." Sad, indeed
Senator McCain, I will be proud to call you "President McCain." Good luck, and God bless you.
Welcome Home, Paul!
One of my "real life heroes" "Major" Paul has safely returned from his tour of duty in Iraq! I got the text message from his wife very early this morning--about 1:45 a.m. (CST).
God heard my prayers and pleas for Paul's safe return. He is a wonderful, godly man who loves people, loves his country, and loves his Saviour, Jesus Christ. He continually inspires and encourages my heart.
Almost a year ago, I found myself crying out to God on Paul's behalf--for his safety, for his family, and for his tour of duty in the troubled land of Iraq. While Paul was anxious to go "to the front lines", most of his friends and family were less excited about his departure. I've kept all the emails that I was fortunate enough to receive from him during his time in the Middle East.
"Major" Paul continues to amaze me, and inspire me with his devotion to God and country.
In the borrowed words of Ty Pennington (somewhat less of a hero, but famous nonetheless), "There's only one thing left to say: Welcome home, Major...welcome home!"
God heard my prayers and pleas for Paul's safe return. He is a wonderful, godly man who loves people, loves his country, and loves his Saviour, Jesus Christ. He continually inspires and encourages my heart.
Almost a year ago, I found myself crying out to God on Paul's behalf--for his safety, for his family, and for his tour of duty in the troubled land of Iraq. While Paul was anxious to go "to the front lines", most of his friends and family were less excited about his departure. I've kept all the emails that I was fortunate enough to receive from him during his time in the Middle East.
"Major" Paul continues to amaze me, and inspire me with his devotion to God and country.
In the borrowed words of Ty Pennington (somewhat less of a hero, but famous nonetheless), "There's only one thing left to say: Welcome home, Major...welcome home!"
"Getting on with life..."
My wonderful friend and mentor, Dr R Hollis Gause, and I were chatting on our cell phones for a good while on Saturday night. This was the first time in a very long time that Brother G and I had the opportunity to just "talk about stuff" without alot of time constraints. It was so good for me, and very refreshing as well.
Even though he has known me for many years, I had the opportunity to share alot of the "personal pain" from my early childhood years--much of which he had no knowledge. Being the marvelously attentive listener that he is, Dr Gause demonstrated his wonderfully pastoral/fathering heart during the course of our conversation.
Afterwards, I realized just how much God has brought me through over the years. Even with the pain of an absentee father, a horrible mother, and abjecct poverty, God still brought me through it all! And now, many years later, I see just where I could have been, had it not been for the mercy and grace of our Lord!
On more than one occasion I have been reminded that love and mercy of Christ is far greater and more powerful than the "temporary" and "light afflictions" of this life.
Praise His holy name!
Even though he has known me for many years, I had the opportunity to share alot of the "personal pain" from my early childhood years--much of which he had no knowledge. Being the marvelously attentive listener that he is, Dr Gause demonstrated his wonderfully pastoral/fathering heart during the course of our conversation.
Afterwards, I realized just how much God has brought me through over the years. Even with the pain of an absentee father, a horrible mother, and abjecct poverty, God still brought me through it all! And now, many years later, I see just where I could have been, had it not been for the mercy and grace of our Lord!
On more than one occasion I have been reminded that love and mercy of Christ is far greater and more powerful than the "temporary" and "light afflictions" of this life.
Praise His holy name!
Four thousand and counting...
According to the recent reports from the United States Department of Defense, more than 4000 service personnel have now given their lives in the Iraq war. On March 19, 2008 the world marked the fifth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq by the United States and a small group of allies.
Now more than five years later, the United States is:
1) Engaged in a very heavy Presidential Election process
2) Engaged in the debate as to whether we should withdraw from Iraq and
3) Engaged in the lives of men and women who have so bravely served this nation in the military uniform.
From those FOUR THOUSAND men and women who have died in this war, 98% of them are men, 75% of them have been caucasians, and only 9% of them have been military officers. New York City has experienced more loss than any other city in the USA where military service personnel have called home.
I have two very, very dear brothers (not blood-related) who are currently serving in Iraq. Not a day goes by that I am not praying for their safety and protection.
I am praying for a very peaceful resolution of this awful situation.
May the Lord grant us His favor and peace.
Now more than five years later, the United States is:
1) Engaged in a very heavy Presidential Election process
2) Engaged in the debate as to whether we should withdraw from Iraq and
3) Engaged in the lives of men and women who have so bravely served this nation in the military uniform.
From those FOUR THOUSAND men and women who have died in this war, 98% of them are men, 75% of them have been caucasians, and only 9% of them have been military officers. New York City has experienced more loss than any other city in the USA where military service personnel have called home.
I have two very, very dear brothers (not blood-related) who are currently serving in Iraq. Not a day goes by that I am not praying for their safety and protection.
I am praying for a very peaceful resolution of this awful situation.
May the Lord grant us His favor and peace.
Oprah's BIGGIVE...could you do it?
Here's the scenario:
You are placed in a large city, where you are mostly unfamiliar with your surroundings. You are handed $100,000.00 (that's one hundred thousand dollars). You must spend it all within 24 hours. You can use any of it on yourself or your family.
You must:
1) Not give any recipient cash.
2) Not spend more than $500 on any one person's needs.
3) Not spend more than $10,000 at any one establishment.
4) Use this money to "enhance" or "better" the situation for someone, or a group of "someones."
Could you do it? You have 24 hours.....
What is your plan?
You are placed in a large city, where you are mostly unfamiliar with your surroundings. You are handed $100,000.00 (that's one hundred thousand dollars). You must spend it all within 24 hours. You can use any of it on yourself or your family.
You must:
1) Not give any recipient cash.
2) Not spend more than $500 on any one person's needs.
3) Not spend more than $10,000 at any one establishment.
4) Use this money to "enhance" or "better" the situation for someone, or a group of "someones."
Could you do it? You have 24 hours.....
What is your plan?
"Precious in the sight of the Lord" Dr Charles W Conn goes to glory!
Church of God officials, members, and friends are mourning the passing of Dr Charles W Conn, who was promoted to glory last night!
A prolific author, tremendous preacher, able administrator, and doting father/grandfather/great-grand father, Brother Conn was a genuine "original." I first became aware of this "giant" of a man when I was a teenager, and someone gave me a copy of Like A Mighty Army, his seminal volume on the history of the Church of God. Years later, I would have the opportunity to tell him personally how much I appreciated his views on early Pentecostal history. I remember Dr Conn and his Edna coming to the Pentecostal World Conference in Oslo, Norway in 1992. What a treat it was to see them.
Known as an able pastor, and better yet, as the father of twelve children, Brother Conn, brought his many gifts and abilities to bear on the Church of God, and Lee College (now University) in particular. From 1970-1982, he was the very able president of this fine institute (of which I am a staunchly proud alum). He served the Church of God as state overseer, headquarters official, General Overseer, Pastor, College President, and prolific historian and author. I have several of his books in my personal library. I often re-read "The Anatomy of Evil" and the "Rudder and the Rock" when I need to be informed and encouraged.
His son, Dr Charles Paul Conn, (the current president of Lee University) is one of my heroes. When I last visited Cleveland TN, I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Dr Paul, and his wife Darlia. I will always remember his words, "Well Phil, the 'Brother Conn' that you knew and loved isn't with us anymore...he's in his own little world right now." Alluding to his father's bout with Alzheimer's I could see the pain and sorrow in my good friend over the condition of his father.
The Scriptures tell us that the "death of a saint of God" is precious in the sight of the Lord. While this will be a very painful (though expected) loss for the Conn family, in time it will become a very precious gift to them.
Dr Charles was preceded in death by his wonderful wife Edna, and some of their children.
A prolific author, tremendous preacher, able administrator, and doting father/grandfather/great-grand father, Brother Conn was a genuine "original." I first became aware of this "giant" of a man when I was a teenager, and someone gave me a copy of Like A Mighty Army, his seminal volume on the history of the Church of God. Years later, I would have the opportunity to tell him personally how much I appreciated his views on early Pentecostal history. I remember Dr Conn and his Edna coming to the Pentecostal World Conference in Oslo, Norway in 1992. What a treat it was to see them.
Known as an able pastor, and better yet, as the father of twelve children, Brother Conn, brought his many gifts and abilities to bear on the Church of God, and Lee College (now University) in particular. From 1970-1982, he was the very able president of this fine institute (of which I am a staunchly proud alum). He served the Church of God as state overseer, headquarters official, General Overseer, Pastor, College President, and prolific historian and author. I have several of his books in my personal library. I often re-read "The Anatomy of Evil" and the "Rudder and the Rock" when I need to be informed and encouraged.
His son, Dr Charles Paul Conn, (the current president of Lee University) is one of my heroes. When I last visited Cleveland TN, I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Dr Paul, and his wife Darlia. I will always remember his words, "Well Phil, the 'Brother Conn' that you knew and loved isn't with us anymore...he's in his own little world right now." Alluding to his father's bout with Alzheimer's I could see the pain and sorrow in my good friend over the condition of his father.
The Scriptures tell us that the "death of a saint of God" is precious in the sight of the Lord. While this will be a very painful (though expected) loss for the Conn family, in time it will become a very precious gift to them.
Dr Charles was preceded in death by his wonderful wife Edna, and some of their children.
Dick Cheney is on DRUGS!
From 1989-1993 I was one of then-Secretary Dick Cheney's biggest fans! He was a marvelous leader of the Pentagon.
My, how times have changed him. He has been one of the absolute WORST Vice President's of my life time. He made unspeakably horrible assumptions about the "Iraq invasion"--telling MEET THE PRESS host Tim Russert that our troops would be "welcomed as liberators"....How wrong he was!
Now he has the audacity to say that our "mission in Iraq" has been a success.
Tell that to the families of 3,987 military personnel who will never share another day with their families. Tell that to the grieving husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, and friends.
Mr Cheney, I can hardly wait for you to leave office, and get out of Washington! The sooner, the better.
My, how times have changed him. He has been one of the absolute WORST Vice President's of my life time. He made unspeakably horrible assumptions about the "Iraq invasion"--telling MEET THE PRESS host Tim Russert that our troops would be "welcomed as liberators"....How wrong he was!
Now he has the audacity to say that our "mission in Iraq" has been a success.
Tell that to the families of 3,987 military personnel who will never share another day with their families. Tell that to the grieving husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, and friends.
Mr Cheney, I can hardly wait for you to leave office, and get out of Washington! The sooner, the better.
The Funniest people on RADIO
For years, I have listened faithfully to "Car Talk" with my never-have-met friends, Click and Clack....not their real names of course.
http://www.cartalk.com/menus/show.html
Very few people in the "broadcasting world" make me laugh as much, and as hard, as these two characters. I never drive...and as a matter of fact, I hate driving! Being behind the steering wheel makes me very nervous....honestly, it does!
But I absolutely will not miss "Car Talk" if I can help it. I laugh at these two for the entire hour! Listening to their recitation of the closing "credits" is worth the effort. National Public Radio got a real "winner" when they brought this show on board.
Listen at least once...you'll love it. I promise!
http://www.cartalk.com/menus/show.html
Very few people in the "broadcasting world" make me laugh as much, and as hard, as these two characters. I never drive...and as a matter of fact, I hate driving! Being behind the steering wheel makes me very nervous....honestly, it does!
But I absolutely will not miss "Car Talk" if I can help it. I laugh at these two for the entire hour! Listening to their recitation of the closing "credits" is worth the effort. National Public Radio got a real "winner" when they brought this show on board.
Listen at least once...you'll love it. I promise!
Manifold Thanks..."the day after"...
Okay, Okay...I lived through the big "46th" birthday. Everyone in my workplace was very gracious to me. I want to publicly thank my immediate supervisor, Peter Pauletti (Director of Admissions) for taking me to lunch. He is a joy to work with and for.
And in no particular order, I want to thank the following people for their greetings, and other forms of "good wishes" on my birthday:
Jim M
Rod
David
Larry
Gina
Dianne
Mark
Phil P
Jim P
Ed
Mitch and Lisa
Aaron and Kristy
Dr Gause
"Dadda" (I know who he is...LOL)
Debbie
Anita
Craig
Eddie
Peter
KariJay
Jonathan
Ken
Mary
Michael
Charles
Arick
Jane and Jim
Marti
Anthony
Joan
Frances
Fay and Ray
And all the others...
I just went "all out" for my birthday celebration. I left work a bit early, went home, and had a magnificent dinner: some unsalted cashews (straight from the can), and a couple glasses of caffeine free Ginger Ale.
Yep, me...the big-time spender....so I don't have to worry about this type of "drama" for another 364 days...
And in no particular order, I want to thank the following people for their greetings, and other forms of "good wishes" on my birthday:
Jim M
Rod
David
Larry
Gina
Dianne
Mark
Phil P
Jim P
Ed
Mitch and Lisa
Aaron and Kristy
Dr Gause
"Dadda" (I know who he is...LOL)
Debbie
Anita
Craig
Eddie
Peter
KariJay
Jonathan
Ken
Mary
Michael
Charles
Arick
Jane and Jim
Marti
Anthony
Joan
Frances
Fay and Ray
And all the others...
I just went "all out" for my birthday celebration. I left work a bit early, went home, and had a magnificent dinner: some unsalted cashews (straight from the can), and a couple glasses of caffeine free Ginger Ale.
Yep, me...the big-time spender....so I don't have to worry about this type of "drama" for another 364 days...
"Sixteen things"
I'm not sure where I found this one (many years ago), but here it is:
Sixteen Things it took me 46 years to learn:
1. You will never find anyone who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.
2. You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests you think she's pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at the moment.
3. The most powerful force in the universe is gossip.
4. The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic statusor ethnic background is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.
5. There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday.That time is age _____.
6. There is a VERY FINE line between "hobby" and"mental illness."
7. People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.
8. If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved, and never will achieve, it's full potential, that word would be"MEETINGS."
9. The main accomplishment of almost all organized protests is to annoy people who are not in them.
10. If there really is a God who created the entire universe with all of its glories, and He decides to deliver a message to humanity, He WILL NOT USE, as His messenger, a person on cable TV with a bad hairstyle.
11. You should not confuse your life with your career.
12. A person who is nice to you, but rude to the waiter is NOT a nice person.
13. NO matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously.
14. When trouble arises and things look bad, there is always one individual who perceives a solution and is willing to take command. Very often, THAT INDIVIDUAL IS CRAZY.
15. Your friends love you, anyway.
16. Nobody cares if you can't dance well...Just get up and dance.
Sixteen Things it took me 46 years to learn:
1. You will never find anyone who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.
2. You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests you think she's pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at the moment.
3. The most powerful force in the universe is gossip.
4. The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic statusor ethnic background is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.
5. There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday.That time is age _____.
6. There is a VERY FINE line between "hobby" and"mental illness."
7. People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.
8. If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved, and never will achieve, it's full potential, that word would be"MEETINGS."
9. The main accomplishment of almost all organized protests is to annoy people who are not in them.
10. If there really is a God who created the entire universe with all of its glories, and He decides to deliver a message to humanity, He WILL NOT USE, as His messenger, a person on cable TV with a bad hairstyle.
11. You should not confuse your life with your career.
12. A person who is nice to you, but rude to the waiter is NOT a nice person.
13. NO matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously.
14. When trouble arises and things look bad, there is always one individual who perceives a solution and is willing to take command. Very often, THAT INDIVIDUAL IS CRAZY.
15. Your friends love you, anyway.
16. Nobody cares if you can't dance well...Just get up and dance.
Forty-Six.....that sounds really old!
Tomorrow, March 13th, is my forty-sixth birthday....
I'm not sure how I feel about this one. My fortieth was very traumatic, and thanks to my innate acting abilities, very dramatic. The only people more glad to see #40 pass than myself were all my friends who were tired of the whining, moaning, and theatrics that I put them through, leading up to the fateful day. I took the "fortieth" really hard, to say the least...cried for three months leading up to it....ate lots of chocolate cake, and went to bed early that night...
Tomorrow's will not be anywhere near that "dramatic." One of my closest buds, Mark Brucato, has already told me, "Tomorrow has enough troubles of its' own." Fine time to start quoting scriptures to me, huh?
I have the very best friends on the planet. These people mean the world to me. I am Exhibit A that no man "is an island." Everything good thing that I may have received, or become, or contribute is due to all the wonderful people who have loved me, nurtured me, corrected me, laughed and cried with me, and have embraced me--so much that I truly haven't deserved--but am profoundly and profusely thankful that it was so.
A verse that I used often when I was in college and then in the Air Force seems very appropriate today: "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13).
For all those people who have "laid down their life" for me over the last many years, I am eternally indebted. I will do my best to "repay."
I'm not sure how I feel about this one. My fortieth was very traumatic, and thanks to my innate acting abilities, very dramatic. The only people more glad to see #40 pass than myself were all my friends who were tired of the whining, moaning, and theatrics that I put them through, leading up to the fateful day. I took the "fortieth" really hard, to say the least...cried for three months leading up to it....ate lots of chocolate cake, and went to bed early that night...
Tomorrow's will not be anywhere near that "dramatic." One of my closest buds, Mark Brucato, has already told me, "Tomorrow has enough troubles of its' own." Fine time to start quoting scriptures to me, huh?
I have the very best friends on the planet. These people mean the world to me. I am Exhibit A that no man "is an island." Everything good thing that I may have received, or become, or contribute is due to all the wonderful people who have loved me, nurtured me, corrected me, laughed and cried with me, and have embraced me--so much that I truly haven't deserved--but am profoundly and profusely thankful that it was so.
A verse that I used often when I was in college and then in the Air Force seems very appropriate today: "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13).
For all those people who have "laid down their life" for me over the last many years, I am eternally indebted. I will do my best to "repay."
"Father" issues.....
I've not posted for a while, and for those of you who like to read SOMETHING TO CONSIDER, I beg your forgiveness.
It's been a tough few weeks for me. The demands of work have been somewhat crazy, and I've not been particularly inspired to write a whole lot anyway.
My parents divorced when I was just a baby. I was later abandoned by both parents, and was rescued by my paternal grandparents. My father never, never played any type of active role in my life...
And thus...the "father" issues. Even though I will be 46 years old in a few days, I still feel like I was robbed...Cheated....abandoned.
Even though I've been a follower of Christ since my earliest years, I've always felt the "emptiness" of not having a "father" who loves me, cherishes me, and deeply cares for me. I know my Heavenly Father does...and that's not really the issue in my life.
I've not seen or had any communication with Bobby Hoover in almost 16 years. The last time I saw his face was at his mother's funeral....the woman who loved and raised me when her son refused to carry out his responsibilities.
I never learned to toss a football, dribble a basketball, or even hit a softball--all things my father should have taught me. I never learned what it would mean to be a "man"---mainly because the "important" men in my life (or those who should have been important in my life) were absentees....dropping in and out at their own convenience.
I'm not sure that I have ever learned what it means to be a "man"...except what I've learned in my military service, my seminary training, and from watching those "men" who have become such important people in my life.
Father's Day is always a hard holiday for me. For a long time I hated it...now I just tolerate it...and keep moving on with life. I've never married, and sometimes I wonder why. I don't know if it was something subconscious that warned me that I would be "no better" than my own parents...but I've never pursued marriage.
So yes, there are "father issues" in my life. But I am glad that my Heavenly Father is nothing like my biological one. And I'm also glad the Heavenly Father has given me lots of "fathers" who care about me, encourage me, instruct me, and love me....
It's been a tough few weeks for me. The demands of work have been somewhat crazy, and I've not been particularly inspired to write a whole lot anyway.
My parents divorced when I was just a baby. I was later abandoned by both parents, and was rescued by my paternal grandparents. My father never, never played any type of active role in my life...
And thus...the "father" issues. Even though I will be 46 years old in a few days, I still feel like I was robbed...Cheated....abandoned.
Even though I've been a follower of Christ since my earliest years, I've always felt the "emptiness" of not having a "father" who loves me, cherishes me, and deeply cares for me. I know my Heavenly Father does...and that's not really the issue in my life.
I've not seen or had any communication with Bobby Hoover in almost 16 years. The last time I saw his face was at his mother's funeral....the woman who loved and raised me when her son refused to carry out his responsibilities.
I never learned to toss a football, dribble a basketball, or even hit a softball--all things my father should have taught me. I never learned what it would mean to be a "man"---mainly because the "important" men in my life (or those who should have been important in my life) were absentees....dropping in and out at their own convenience.
I'm not sure that I have ever learned what it means to be a "man"...except what I've learned in my military service, my seminary training, and from watching those "men" who have become such important people in my life.
Father's Day is always a hard holiday for me. For a long time I hated it...now I just tolerate it...and keep moving on with life. I've never married, and sometimes I wonder why. I don't know if it was something subconscious that warned me that I would be "no better" than my own parents...but I've never pursued marriage.
So yes, there are "father issues" in my life. But I am glad that my Heavenly Father is nothing like my biological one. And I'm also glad the Heavenly Father has given me lots of "fathers" who care about me, encourage me, instruct me, and love me....
Some things to "consider"....
More than 20 years, a wonderful colleague gave me a neat little book, Ginger Snaps: Fun Thoughts on Life and I want to share some of these "gems" with you:
Hot heads and cold hearts never solved anything.
To err is human, but it takes a better excuse next time.
You can't shake hands with a clinched fist.
There is no reward for finding fault.
Summer is when kids slam the doors they left open all winter.
Courage is the power to let go of the familiar.
Any town is a delightful place if you are a delightful person.
Never confuse motion with action.
Time isn't your enemy unless you try to kill it.
Never cut what you can untie.
Don't put off until tomorrow what you can at overtime rates today.
Hot heads and cold hearts never solved anything.
To err is human, but it takes a better excuse next time.
You can't shake hands with a clinched fist.
There is no reward for finding fault.
Summer is when kids slam the doors they left open all winter.
Courage is the power to let go of the familiar.
Any town is a delightful place if you are a delightful person.
Never confuse motion with action.
Time isn't your enemy unless you try to kill it.
Never cut what you can untie.
Don't put off until tomorrow what you can at overtime rates today.
Here's the "chance of a lifetime"....LOL
The new owner of the TRIBUNE COMPANY, bazillionaire Sam Zell, announced recently that he would entertaining selling not one, but TWO icons of the city of Chicago:
The Chicago Cubs
Wrigley Field
Mr Zell bought the Tribune Company back in December, and immediately started his "renovations" of the newly-acquired, vast empire.
I just cannot imagine WRIGLEY FIELD being called anything else. But Zell has already said that he would gladly sell the "renaming rights" to the Friendly Confines.
Well, Bully for him!
And since the Cubs haven't won a World Series in 100 years...how could he possibly put them on the auction block as well?
If he does sell the Cubs, and that team leaves the Windy City, I would support a public flogging on the Magnificent Mile for Mr. Zell.
The Chicago Cubs
Wrigley Field
Mr Zell bought the Tribune Company back in December, and immediately started his "renovations" of the newly-acquired, vast empire.
I just cannot imagine WRIGLEY FIELD being called anything else. But Zell has already said that he would gladly sell the "renaming rights" to the Friendly Confines.
Well, Bully for him!
And since the Cubs haven't won a World Series in 100 years...how could he possibly put them on the auction block as well?
If he does sell the Cubs, and that team leaves the Windy City, I would support a public flogging on the Magnificent Mile for Mr. Zell.
Love this music!
The ministry of Cynthia Clawson's music has enriched my life for many, many years. Right now I have one of her CDs (from the early 1980s) playing on my computer in the office--"You're Welcome Here".....
Few people communicate with the brilliance, balance, and grace that Cynthia does. She can sing just about anything.
Check out her website:
www.cynthiaclawson.com
All of her music is just beyond fabulous!
Few people communicate with the brilliance, balance, and grace that Cynthia does. She can sing just about anything.
Check out her website:
www.cynthiaclawson.com
All of her music is just beyond fabulous!
One of my favorites...
One of the very first songs that I learned as a child was this precious, precious hymn of the Church:
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
That calls me from a world of care,
And bids me at my Father’s throne
Make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
My soul has often found relief
And oft escaped the tempter’s snare
By thy return, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
The joys I feel, the bliss I share,
Of those whose anxious spirits burn
With strong desires for thy return!
With such I hasten to the place
Where God my Savior shows His face,
And gladly take my station there,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
May I thy consolation share,
Till, from Mount Pisgah’s lofty height,
I view my home and take my flight:
This robe of flesh I’ll drop and rise
To seize the everlasting prize;
And shout, while passing through the air,
“Farewell, farewell, sweet hour of prayer!”
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
That calls me from a world of care,
And bids me at my Father’s throne
Make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
My soul has often found relief
And oft escaped the tempter’s snare
By thy return, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
The joys I feel, the bliss I share,
Of those whose anxious spirits burn
With strong desires for thy return!
With such I hasten to the place
Where God my Savior shows His face,
And gladly take my station there,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
May I thy consolation share,
Till, from Mount Pisgah’s lofty height,
I view my home and take my flight:
This robe of flesh I’ll drop and rise
To seize the everlasting prize;
And shout, while passing through the air,
“Farewell, farewell, sweet hour of prayer!”
Dear Senator Obama....
I am one of your constituents here in Illinois. I voted for you in 2004, and was very happy to cast my vote for you. In my opinion, the GOP basically had no "candidate"--because Ambassador Keyes made such a fool of himself, and should have never been on the Illinois ballots in the first place.
But now, we are some 9 months from the General election, and it appears that you have tremendous momentum. That has caused me to think alot, and pray very, very diligently for you and your wife, along with those two beautiful daughters in your care.
Months ago I decided that I could not support your candidacy, and those reasons are already listed. Yet, even without my endorsement (which, along with $1.95 will get you a hot cup of something at Caribou or Starbucks) you have captured the attention, enthusiasm, and imagination of these 50 United States. Congratulations!
But, even so, there is so much that needs to happen in this nation. As you have well documented in your great book, The Audacity to Hope, we are standing on the precipice of some engaging times here in America. We are, hopefully, beginning to see the end of our occupation in Iraq; we have seen what an abysmal failure "No Child Left Behind" has been; we are discovering, much to our dismay and horror, that our military healthcare delivery systems are in severe disrepair, and can't wait any longer for the "bureaucracy" to do something. These brave men and women need HEALTHCARE NOW...and deserve it NOW....
And those are just the domestic issues.
Our foreign policy seems to be "all over the place." We have Iran, North Korea, and Syria to deal with. We have the incredible instability in Lebanon, the fickle Saudis, and the rest of the Middle East where our national interests currently reside.
What about our friends in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, Africa and beyond? I've not heard you say anything about these "vital interests of the United States." Why not?
Senator, while your campaign has made alot of people "feel good" and get the "chills, thrills, and tingles"--there is real work to be done. My question is: Can you surround yourself with the people who are capable of doing it?
Should you become President of the United States, you will have my prayers, encouragement and support. But, make no mistake, there are some SERIOUS issues that will await you on January 21, 2009. And then you will have to "man up" and lead.
Are you ready for that?
But now, we are some 9 months from the General election, and it appears that you have tremendous momentum. That has caused me to think alot, and pray very, very diligently for you and your wife, along with those two beautiful daughters in your care.
Months ago I decided that I could not support your candidacy, and those reasons are already listed. Yet, even without my endorsement (which, along with $1.95 will get you a hot cup of something at Caribou or Starbucks) you have captured the attention, enthusiasm, and imagination of these 50 United States. Congratulations!
But, even so, there is so much that needs to happen in this nation. As you have well documented in your great book, The Audacity to Hope, we are standing on the precipice of some engaging times here in America. We are, hopefully, beginning to see the end of our occupation in Iraq; we have seen what an abysmal failure "No Child Left Behind" has been; we are discovering, much to our dismay and horror, that our military healthcare delivery systems are in severe disrepair, and can't wait any longer for the "bureaucracy" to do something. These brave men and women need HEALTHCARE NOW...and deserve it NOW....
And those are just the domestic issues.
Our foreign policy seems to be "all over the place." We have Iran, North Korea, and Syria to deal with. We have the incredible instability in Lebanon, the fickle Saudis, and the rest of the Middle East where our national interests currently reside.
What about our friends in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, Africa and beyond? I've not heard you say anything about these "vital interests of the United States." Why not?
Senator, while your campaign has made alot of people "feel good" and get the "chills, thrills, and tingles"--there is real work to be done. My question is: Can you surround yourself with the people who are capable of doing it?
Should you become President of the United States, you will have my prayers, encouragement and support. But, make no mistake, there are some SERIOUS issues that will await you on January 21, 2009. And then you will have to "man up" and lead.
Are you ready for that?
It's snowing again...
I really don't want to "complain"--but I've just about had all of the "snow" for this winter season that I can reasonably enjoy.
I've had my "Kodak" "Hallmark" and "Disney" moments already. I've had the "Currier and Ives" sentiment a few times since the first snow fall back in November.
Looking outside my office window right now, I see nothing but large flakes of white falling from the sky. Will it ever stop?
Of course while I am complaining, I must stop and remember that my friends down in Georgia are in desperate need of water. They've had very little precipitation in a very long time.
It would be my dream to just package all of this "white stuff" up and send it down to the Atlanta area...
But that won't happen. Even when I wish it could.
Thank God for the snow!
I've had my "Kodak" "Hallmark" and "Disney" moments already. I've had the "Currier and Ives" sentiment a few times since the first snow fall back in November.
Looking outside my office window right now, I see nothing but large flakes of white falling from the sky. Will it ever stop?
Of course while I am complaining, I must stop and remember that my friends down in Georgia are in desperate need of water. They've had very little precipitation in a very long time.
It would be my dream to just package all of this "white stuff" up and send it down to the Atlanta area...
But that won't happen. Even when I wish it could.
Thank God for the snow!
Teacher.....
"Of all the names that we have for the Son of God--Christ, Master, Lord, Redeemer, Messiah, Savior--one that often gets the least attention is TEACHER. Not, perhaps, because it is the most esoteric, abstract, or difficult to understand, but perhaps precisely because it is the easiest to understand. It is the one that is the closest to us and our experience, the one that is the closest to our status here on earth. We know something about teachers and students, and we have been one or the other or even both in our lives. However, do not have much experience being Messiahs.....
Most of us seldom think of ourselves as the students of the Teacher. We are Christians: card-carrying members of institutions that have codified His teaching after all these years. In the name of becoming mature Christians that St Paul envisioned, we too often forsake becoming and remaining the hungry students whom Jesus sought out and called His own...
It has always been easier to talk about how Jesus said what He said and where He said it than it has been to listen to what He said to those who would follow Him. It is easier to talk about the accuracy of the Scriptures than it is about what it will take for us to enter the kingdom. It is always easier to wrestle over manuscripts and origins and time frames and translations that is is to wrestle with how we are supposed to live...
'The trouble with really seeing and really hearing,' wrote Frederick Beuchner, 'is that then we really have to do something about what we have seen and heard.' What God had to say to those who heard Him first--and what He has to say to us today--is a good deal clearer, more simple, and more direct than we would like for it to be....
And when the words of the TEACHER become too clear, it makes us uncomfortable, because then we have to choose between living out the lesson or clouding it over. Anyone who is trying to save his life rather than lose it knows that confusion can be a pretty good defense. At least, in the short term."
taken from THE BODY BROKEN by Robert Benson (Colorado Springs: Water Brook Press) 2003.
Most of us seldom think of ourselves as the students of the Teacher. We are Christians: card-carrying members of institutions that have codified His teaching after all these years. In the name of becoming mature Christians that St Paul envisioned, we too often forsake becoming and remaining the hungry students whom Jesus sought out and called His own...
It has always been easier to talk about how Jesus said what He said and where He said it than it has been to listen to what He said to those who would follow Him. It is easier to talk about the accuracy of the Scriptures than it is about what it will take for us to enter the kingdom. It is always easier to wrestle over manuscripts and origins and time frames and translations that is is to wrestle with how we are supposed to live...
'The trouble with really seeing and really hearing,' wrote Frederick Beuchner, 'is that then we really have to do something about what we have seen and heard.' What God had to say to those who heard Him first--and what He has to say to us today--is a good deal clearer, more simple, and more direct than we would like for it to be....
And when the words of the TEACHER become too clear, it makes us uncomfortable, because then we have to choose between living out the lesson or clouding it over. Anyone who is trying to save his life rather than lose it knows that confusion can be a pretty good defense. At least, in the short term."
taken from THE BODY BROKEN by Robert Benson (Colorado Springs: Water Brook Press) 2003.
Somewhere, It's Snowing...
More than 23 years ago, I heard Candi Alford (daughter of Dr. Delton and Myrna Alford) sing this beautiful ballad:
I once read in a poem~ when snow covers
the earth,
That it hides the world's scars and
gives nature new birth.
And they say when a man turns from
sin to the Lord,
That forgiveness like snow covers him
evermore.
And it's told that the angels lift their hearts
and rejoice~
When one traveler turns homeward from
his way to the Lord's.
If somewhere someone's turning, he's giving
his all,
Then God's grace like the snow is beginning to fall.
And somewhere it's snowing,
see the soft drifting down,
As the snowflakes surrender
to the hardening ground.
Like the good grace of Jesus, that now
covers our sin.
In the kingdom of Heaven,
It's snowing again.
And I've never forgotten those marvelous words, and the great truths they proclaim.
Right outside my front door here in Chicago, I measured almost ten inches of snow this morning, as I was preparing to leave for work. And these words came flooding through my soul:
"Like the good grace of Jesus, that now covers our sin...."
I'm so gratefully, unspeakably grateful that "good grace of Jesus."
When my heart is hardened and cold with the sins and failures of life--that grace comes and warms, cleanses and restores my life.
And I'm so glad that "somewhere it's snowing." Let it snow, let it snow!
I once read in a poem~ when snow covers
the earth,
That it hides the world's scars and
gives nature new birth.
And they say when a man turns from
sin to the Lord,
That forgiveness like snow covers him
evermore.
And it's told that the angels lift their hearts
and rejoice~
When one traveler turns homeward from
his way to the Lord's.
If somewhere someone's turning, he's giving
his all,
Then God's grace like the snow is beginning to fall.
And somewhere it's snowing,
see the soft drifting down,
As the snowflakes surrender
to the hardening ground.
Like the good grace of Jesus, that now
covers our sin.
In the kingdom of Heaven,
It's snowing again.
And I've never forgotten those marvelous words, and the great truths they proclaim.
Right outside my front door here in Chicago, I measured almost ten inches of snow this morning, as I was preparing to leave for work. And these words came flooding through my soul:
"Like the good grace of Jesus, that now covers our sin...."
I'm so gratefully, unspeakably grateful that "good grace of Jesus."
When my heart is hardened and cold with the sins and failures of life--that grace comes and warms, cleanses and restores my life.
And I'm so glad that "somewhere it's snowing." Let it snow, let it snow!
Fortified Cities....
"A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a castle." (Proverbs 18:19)
Very few situations in life are more difficult to solve than "offended" people. The writer of the Proverbs tells us that an "offended" (brother or sister) is a stronger obstacle/barrier than a fortified city.
Let's think about fortified cities for a while:
1) Usually have good armies in place.
2) Usually have stable government in place.
3) Usually have good infrastructure (roads, highways, shelters) in place.
4) Usually have a sense of security, and a history of victory.
So, what is it about offended people in the kingdom of God?
I have often wondered why we are so quick to " judge" and make " assumptions" without all the facts--and thus run the possibility of offending someone without cause?
Have we become so calloused that we will believe anything about someone with whom we may disagree, or with whom we clash? I've clashed with more than one brother/sister in the church...but I would never seek to harm them, or to wish ill against them. I would also never gossip about them.
But we have God's Word: "offended" brothers/sisters are harder to win than fortified cities.
Thoughts?
Very few situations in life are more difficult to solve than "offended" people. The writer of the Proverbs tells us that an "offended" (brother or sister) is a stronger obstacle/barrier than a fortified city.
Let's think about fortified cities for a while:
1) Usually have good armies in place.
2) Usually have stable government in place.
3) Usually have good infrastructure (roads, highways, shelters) in place.
4) Usually have a sense of security, and a history of victory.
So, what is it about offended people in the kingdom of God?
I have often wondered why we are so quick to " judge" and make " assumptions" without all the facts--and thus run the possibility of offending someone without cause?
Have we become so calloused that we will believe anything about someone with whom we may disagree, or with whom we clash? I've clashed with more than one brother/sister in the church...but I would never seek to harm them, or to wish ill against them. I would also never gossip about them.
But we have God's Word: "offended" brothers/sisters are harder to win than fortified cities.
Thoughts?
Department of Justice: Do your Diligence!
Some silly Mexican woman has decided to hide out in a west side Church here in Chicago...again. This lady, Flor Crisostomo, is a criminal. She has used false documents to get into this country, to get a job, and has broken all the immigration laws of this nation.
Now, she is taking a cue from Elvira Arrellano (the criminal who was finally deported last year) and is seeking "sanctuary" in the Adalberto United Methodist Church in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago's west side.
She should and must be deported. And the sooner the better.
The Department of Justice, and Immigration and Naturalization should/must move into that facility IMMEDIATELY and remove this lady from the premises.
In addition, the Department of Justice should levy a very heavy fine against this local congregation, and this group should lose their TAX EXEMPT status for a long, long time--if they go along with this charade again.
The laws of this nation must mean something...and must be enforced.
And it must start now!
Now, she is taking a cue from Elvira Arrellano (the criminal who was finally deported last year) and is seeking "sanctuary" in the Adalberto United Methodist Church in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago's west side.
She should and must be deported. And the sooner the better.
The Department of Justice, and Immigration and Naturalization should/must move into that facility IMMEDIATELY and remove this lady from the premises.
In addition, the Department of Justice should levy a very heavy fine against this local congregation, and this group should lose their TAX EXEMPT status for a long, long time--if they go along with this charade again.
The laws of this nation must mean something...and must be enforced.
And it must start now!
Illegal Immigration: Here's what I would do
I am very, very tired of the bureaucrats "wringing their hands" and not doing anything about the problem of illegal immigrants in this country.
We must do something, and do it quickly! Although I will be voting from the former Governor of Arkansas in the February Primaries (Mike Huckabee), I do disagree with his approach to illegal immigration.
Here's what I propose:
1) Stop granting automatic citizenship to the children who are born in the United States, but their parents are not United States citizens. If their parents (one or both) are here on "Green cards", the child who is born here should share their status--nothing more, nothing less. If we make this our law and enforce it, fewer people will come here to have their "anchor babies."
2) Secure our borders, and rigorously enforce the immigration laws of this land. Start deporting those who are violating our laws.
We must do something, and do it quickly! Although I will be voting from the former Governor of Arkansas in the February Primaries (Mike Huckabee), I do disagree with his approach to illegal immigration.
Here's what I propose:
1) Stop granting automatic citizenship to the children who are born in the United States, but their parents are not United States citizens. If their parents (one or both) are here on "Green cards", the child who is born here should share their status--nothing more, nothing less. If we make this our law and enforce it, fewer people will come here to have their "anchor babies."
2) Secure our borders, and rigorously enforce the immigration laws of this land. Start deporting those who are violating our laws.
The Healer is Here...
Let me be very clear:
God is still a healing God! In an age where people tend to be skeptical about everything (and Christ-followers are not immune to this skepticism), we can know that God is still the same HEALER that He has always been.
Now, a few questions:
1) Does God hear every prayer for healing? Of course.
2) Does God answer every prayer for healing? Yes. He often says "yes" and He often says "no" and sometimes He will even say "wait." But God does answer the prayers for healing. We just may not get the answer that we want, when we want it.
3) How do I know that God heals today? His Word tells me that Christ is the same "yesterday, today, and forever." Christ healed many, many who came to Him--and He hasn't changed. I either believe His promises about Himself, or I don't.
4) Didn't the "miraculous" end when the Biblical Canon was completed? No. The Holy Spirit didn't leave us...and we are not second-class citizens of God's family. God, and God alone decides when, where, how, and why He will perform His mighty works--including salvation, healing, and any other miraculous act He chooses to perform.
God still heals people....and let's always ask Him, believe Him, and trust Him.
Even when He says "no."
God is still a healing God! In an age where people tend to be skeptical about everything (and Christ-followers are not immune to this skepticism), we can know that God is still the same HEALER that He has always been.
Now, a few questions:
1) Does God hear every prayer for healing? Of course.
2) Does God answer every prayer for healing? Yes. He often says "yes" and He often says "no" and sometimes He will even say "wait." But God does answer the prayers for healing. We just may not get the answer that we want, when we want it.
3) How do I know that God heals today? His Word tells me that Christ is the same "yesterday, today, and forever." Christ healed many, many who came to Him--and He hasn't changed. I either believe His promises about Himself, or I don't.
4) Didn't the "miraculous" end when the Biblical Canon was completed? No. The Holy Spirit didn't leave us...and we are not second-class citizens of God's family. God, and God alone decides when, where, how, and why He will perform His mighty works--including salvation, healing, and any other miraculous act He chooses to perform.
God still heals people....and let's always ask Him, believe Him, and trust Him.
Even when He says "no."
Memo to the GOP: Ronald Reagan is Dead!
With no intended disrespect to the "Gipper"....Ronald Reagan has been dead almost 4 years now. He has been out of the Oval Office for almost 20 years now. Move on!
I am basically tired of hearing Reagan's name invoked every time the Republican Candidates for the nomination get together on a platform.
Enough already!
Times are severely different than in the "times of Reagan":
1) There is no Iron Curtan, Soviet Union or Warsaw Pact now.
2) There is no more East and West Germany.
3) We do not need, want, nor desire another "Iran-Contra" scandal...or any other military scandal for that matter. Abu Ghraib will last enough more than long enough...
4) We need to get our exploding deficits under control, and paid off....
So Governors Huckabee and Romney, Senators McCain and Thompson, Mayor Giuliani---
STOP invoking Ronald Reagan. He's dead. He cannot help you.
Come up with some plans and ideas of your own.
I am basically tired of hearing Reagan's name invoked every time the Republican Candidates for the nomination get together on a platform.
Enough already!
Times are severely different than in the "times of Reagan":
1) There is no Iron Curtan, Soviet Union or Warsaw Pact now.
2) There is no more East and West Germany.
3) We do not need, want, nor desire another "Iran-Contra" scandal...or any other military scandal for that matter. Abu Ghraib will last enough more than long enough...
4) We need to get our exploding deficits under control, and paid off....
So Governors Huckabee and Romney, Senators McCain and Thompson, Mayor Giuliani---
STOP invoking Ronald Reagan. He's dead. He cannot help you.
Come up with some plans and ideas of your own.
"Meanest mom"...good for her...
An Iowa mother has done what MANY, MANY other parents should do:
She found alcohol in her 19-year old son's car. She has put that automobile up for sale.
She has taken out an ad in the local paper....admitting that she is the "meanest" mom in the world....
Good for her!
I only wish there were hundreds of thousands of other parents who were like this courageous woman.
But instead, we see teenagers abusing alcohol (and any teenager drinking is ABUSING, regardless of the intention or permission of the parents), and endangering the lives of others, as well as their own.
I'm glad this woman has taken the stand she did. Maybe some other parents will "grow up" and do the same thing.
We can only hope.
She found alcohol in her 19-year old son's car. She has put that automobile up for sale.
She has taken out an ad in the local paper....admitting that she is the "meanest" mom in the world....
Good for her!
I only wish there were hundreds of thousands of other parents who were like this courageous woman.
But instead, we see teenagers abusing alcohol (and any teenager drinking is ABUSING, regardless of the intention or permission of the parents), and endangering the lives of others, as well as their own.
I'm glad this woman has taken the stand she did. Maybe some other parents will "grow up" and do the same thing.
We can only hope.
It's an Election...not the END of the World...
I sure hope that people claiming to be "Christ-followers" will conduct and appropriate themselves as such during this election year.
After all this is an "election,not the "end of the world"--to quote the late Ann Richards, former governor of Texas.
While it is always important (and imperative) to cast an informed vote for--and to support, if one is so inclined--the candidate of their choice. But we must remember that this process is an "election"....not the judgment seat of Christ.
I refuse to demonize other Christ-followers who don't agree with my political preferences. I refuse to canonize those who do agree with them.
After all, we are still humans--prone to failure, flaws, and quick decisions.
I'm humbled to live in a country where we can see the "democratic" (notice little "d") process practiced freely. No one has to fear the "gestapo" coming in and arresting everyone for making their "political choices" public.
And when November 5th rolls around, let's remember that we live in the greatest country on earth. And let's come together to make this land an even better place to live, work, worship, and honor the Lord.
After all this is an "election,not the "end of the world"--to quote the late Ann Richards, former governor of Texas.
While it is always important (and imperative) to cast an informed vote for--and to support, if one is so inclined--the candidate of their choice. But we must remember that this process is an "election"....not the judgment seat of Christ.
I refuse to demonize other Christ-followers who don't agree with my political preferences. I refuse to canonize those who do agree with them.
After all, we are still humans--prone to failure, flaws, and quick decisions.
I'm humbled to live in a country where we can see the "democratic" (notice little "d") process practiced freely. No one has to fear the "gestapo" coming in and arresting everyone for making their "political choices" public.
And when November 5th rolls around, let's remember that we live in the greatest country on earth. And let's come together to make this land an even better place to live, work, worship, and honor the Lord.
Eleven Rules for the Contemporary Generation...
Not sure where these "eleven rules" originated, but I think they are CLASSIC:
Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!
Rule 2 : The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.
Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.
Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault , so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11 : Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.
Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!
Rule 2 : The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.
Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.
Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault , so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11 : Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.
Senators Clinton and McCain....
First, I can't believe that we are deep, deep in an election season! I'm still trying to recuperate from the 2000 and 2004 seasons---it can't be 2008 already!
But it is!
The New Hampshire (pronounced "nu hamsha" for all the non-New Englanders) Primaries were last night....and there were some surprises--delightful and otherwise.
The junior Senator from New York, Former First Lady Hillary Clinton won the Democratic primary, after taking a drubbing in the Iowa Caucuses last week. She worked hard from last Friday until last night...and she deserved to win. She barely squeaked past the junior Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, with 39% of the Democratic vote.
The senior Senator from Arizona, Vietnam War hero John McCain surprised everyone with his handy win in the Republican column. Just a few weeks/months ago, McCain was considered to be a very distant "also ran" only to be wonderfully resurrected to win the first Primary in the nation again. He handily beat George W Bush in 2000 during the New Hampshire primary.
I supported Senator McCain's bid in 2000--and think this country made a terrible mistake by nominating George W Bush instead of the War Hero.
And so, the "race" is wide open. Really, really open.
Those who were expecting to "crown" Senator Obama had to postpone the ceremonies, and return the "crown." Those who though that former Governor Mitt Romney's "dough" would buy him the primary found themselves crying over all the spilled cash.
Goes to show that "money can't buy everything." At least not in Iowa and New Hampshire.
While this is a fascinating process to watch, I just hope this nation doesn't experience "election fatigue" too early.
But it is!
The New Hampshire (pronounced "nu hamsha" for all the non-New Englanders) Primaries were last night....and there were some surprises--delightful and otherwise.
The junior Senator from New York, Former First Lady Hillary Clinton won the Democratic primary, after taking a drubbing in the Iowa Caucuses last week. She worked hard from last Friday until last night...and she deserved to win. She barely squeaked past the junior Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, with 39% of the Democratic vote.
The senior Senator from Arizona, Vietnam War hero John McCain surprised everyone with his handy win in the Republican column. Just a few weeks/months ago, McCain was considered to be a very distant "also ran" only to be wonderfully resurrected to win the first Primary in the nation again. He handily beat George W Bush in 2000 during the New Hampshire primary.
I supported Senator McCain's bid in 2000--and think this country made a terrible mistake by nominating George W Bush instead of the War Hero.
And so, the "race" is wide open. Really, really open.
Those who were expecting to "crown" Senator Obama had to postpone the ceremonies, and return the "crown." Those who though that former Governor Mitt Romney's "dough" would buy him the primary found themselves crying over all the spilled cash.
Goes to show that "money can't buy everything." At least not in Iowa and New Hampshire.
While this is a fascinating process to watch, I just hope this nation doesn't experience "election fatigue" too early.
A truly sad Obituary...
I learned about Mr. Common Sense early in my life. I was told that I would do well to call on him when making decisions. It seems he was always around in my early years but less and less as time passed by until today I read his obituary.
Please join me in a moment of silence in remembrance. For Common Sense had served us all so well for so many generations.
Obituary:Common Sense
Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.
He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm, life isn't always fair, and maybe it was my fault. Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not children are in charge).
His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.
Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job they themselves failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer Aspirin, sun lotion or a sticky plaster to a student; but could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar can sue you for assault. Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.
Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust; his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason. He is survived by three stepbrothers; I Know my Rights, Someone Else is to Blame, and I'm a Victim.
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.
Please join me in a moment of silence in remembrance. For Common Sense had served us all so well for so many generations.
Obituary:Common Sense
Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.
He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm, life isn't always fair, and maybe it was my fault. Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not children are in charge).
His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.
Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job they themselves failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer Aspirin, sun lotion or a sticky plaster to a student; but could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar can sue you for assault. Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.
Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust; his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason. He is survived by three stepbrothers; I Know my Rights, Someone Else is to Blame, and I'm a Victim.
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.
Now that IOWA is over...
Congratulations to both Senator Barack Obama (Democrat from Illinois), and Former Governor Mike Huckabee (Republican from Arkansas) on their first-place finishes in the IOWA Caucuses...
Now, we can remember there are FORTY-NINE other states in the Union....at least there were when I last counted.
This whole "election process" has started WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY too early for me. I'm tired of it already...and the "worst" is still to come.
What to do?
Now, we can remember there are FORTY-NINE other states in the Union....at least there were when I last counted.
This whole "election process" has started WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY too early for me. I'm tired of it already...and the "worst" is still to come.
What to do?
The Dangers of Spiritual Privilege
We live in a wonderful nation. We have a precious freedom in this nation that should never be discounted nor taken for granted.
As Christians, we have a precious, priceless freedom in the Lord Jesus. That freedom is costly. That's the reason that God became a human...
I've said all that to say this:
We humans are prone to nitpick, criticize, and complain. Sometimes these things are necessary---and rare. More often than not, we take great pleasure in our "fault-finding" and "examining" other people's motives, hearts, and actions.
That does no one any good, for the most part. My friend Kevin Bussey (www.kevinbussey.net) does a marvelous job of bringing the "absurd" to light and explaining the issues around "the issues." But rarely does he harshly judge another fellow Christian. And when his judgments are heavy (which is indeed a wonderfully rare thing), he has firm scriptural support for making such acclamations.
On New Year's Eve, I was invited to a gathering of Christian friends to celebrate the coming of 2008. All in all, it was a wonderful time, and the people were marvelous.
However, one certain person (whom shall remain nameless) decided to corner me. He behaved more like a prosecutor than a fellow believer. He wanted to know why I requested prayer in a recent gathering for some very sensitive situations in the Kingdom of God in another well-known area. He wasn't concerned about these fellow believers. And if he was, he certainly had a very horrifying way of showing his concern.
As Christians, we must be very, very careful. We must avoid spiritual snobbery, and even worse, spiritual "superiority." The words of the Apostle Paul to the Church at Corinth comes to mind here:
Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.
And then, to the Christians at Galatia,
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
It's so easy to be the "armchair quarterback" of someone else's ministry, activities, family, or personality.
God hasn't called us to that task. We should be discerning, wise as serpents, and harmless as doves (in the words of Christ Himself). And we should be very, very careful when we decide to place any kind of "judgment" on God's servants.
I'm not advocating the blind following of anyone....but I am concerned that we American Christians are more "critic" than we are "Christ-like."
As Christians, we have a precious, priceless freedom in the Lord Jesus. That freedom is costly. That's the reason that God became a human...
I've said all that to say this:
We humans are prone to nitpick, criticize, and complain. Sometimes these things are necessary---and rare. More often than not, we take great pleasure in our "fault-finding" and "examining" other people's motives, hearts, and actions.
That does no one any good, for the most part. My friend Kevin Bussey (www.kevinbussey.net) does a marvelous job of bringing the "absurd" to light and explaining the issues around "the issues." But rarely does he harshly judge another fellow Christian. And when his judgments are heavy (which is indeed a wonderfully rare thing), he has firm scriptural support for making such acclamations.
On New Year's Eve, I was invited to a gathering of Christian friends to celebrate the coming of 2008. All in all, it was a wonderful time, and the people were marvelous.
However, one certain person (whom shall remain nameless) decided to corner me. He behaved more like a prosecutor than a fellow believer. He wanted to know why I requested prayer in a recent gathering for some very sensitive situations in the Kingdom of God in another well-known area. He wasn't concerned about these fellow believers. And if he was, he certainly had a very horrifying way of showing his concern.
As Christians, we must be very, very careful. We must avoid spiritual snobbery, and even worse, spiritual "superiority." The words of the Apostle Paul to the Church at Corinth comes to mind here:
Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.
And then, to the Christians at Galatia,
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
It's so easy to be the "armchair quarterback" of someone else's ministry, activities, family, or personality.
God hasn't called us to that task. We should be discerning, wise as serpents, and harmless as doves (in the words of Christ Himself). And we should be very, very careful when we decide to place any kind of "judgment" on God's servants.
I'm not advocating the blind following of anyone....but I am concerned that we American Christians are more "critic" than we are "Christ-like."
From the Pen of Geron Davis
I first heard Geron Davis' fabulous music some twenty-four years ago when "Holy Ground" became such a "popular" song to sing in Christian circles. I've admired him ever since.
I went back through some of the taped services from Denver First Church of the Nazarene (www.denverfirstchurch.com) from years gone by...and found one where Geron, his wife Becky, and their friend Wesley Pritchard were ministering at DFC. They sang this wonderful, wonderful song:
When I stop and see,just where I've been
I'm really amazed I made it thru this place.
And I can honestly say
without a doubt in my mind
It's only because my life has been
Covered by His grace.
Is it any wonder they call it, "AMAZING GRACE?"
Great and small, every wrong erased.
When we were guilty as sin,
Jesus stepped in
And offered to take our place
Tell me, "is it any wonder they call it "AMAZING GRACE"?
All the debt was mine,
Jesus said "I'll pay"
A love so divine, has shattered both time and space.
And forevermore, hope had been reborn
For all of the world
had been introduced to God's Amazing Grace.
****************************************************
Indeed. We must never forget that Jesus did for us what we could never do for ourselves. We were not only lost in our sins...we were DEAD in our sins. God's only Son gave us the ability to "live again."
In 2008, let us remember this wonderful, unspeakable, indescribable GRACE.
I went back through some of the taped services from Denver First Church of the Nazarene (www.denverfirstchurch.com) from years gone by...and found one where Geron, his wife Becky, and their friend Wesley Pritchard were ministering at DFC. They sang this wonderful, wonderful song:
When I stop and see,just where I've been
I'm really amazed I made it thru this place.
And I can honestly say
without a doubt in my mind
It's only because my life has been
Covered by His grace.
Is it any wonder they call it, "AMAZING GRACE?"
Great and small, every wrong erased.
When we were guilty as sin,
Jesus stepped in
And offered to take our place
Tell me, "is it any wonder they call it "AMAZING GRACE"?
All the debt was mine,
Jesus said "I'll pay"
A love so divine, has shattered both time and space.
And forevermore, hope had been reborn
For all of the world
had been introduced to God's Amazing Grace.
****************************************************
Indeed. We must never forget that Jesus did for us what we could never do for ourselves. We were not only lost in our sins...we were DEAD in our sins. God's only Son gave us the ability to "live again."
In 2008, let us remember this wonderful, unspeakable, indescribable GRACE.
I must confess....
This has been one "eventful" year for me...in many ways.
I made it through another year of my very engaging (and exhausting) work at Coyne American Institute here in Chicago (www.coyneamerican.edu).
I finally became a member of The Moody Church--where I've been worshipping for quite a while now (www.moodychurch.org).
I lived through a serious bout with the flu, and later bronchitis (February/March) with subzero temperatures being the norm here in the Chicago area.
I survived the "subprime mortgage" debaucle, and took a great loss on my condo--which I no longer own. I am now, very happily, renting again.
I attended several weddings of friends who decided to "tie the knot"--and happily so. My friend Aaron Kuglin (in Decatur, GA) had a short engagement, and asked me to be part of his wedding...I was delighted, humbled, and honored.
I visited my old stomping grounds in Cleveland, TN during the weekend of Lee University's homecoming (www.leeuniversity.edu). God allowed me to see many, many people whom I've not seen in a long time...some more than 20 years. This caused my heart and soul to rejoice.
But not everything has been "so rosy":
I've fallen behind on my tithing and giving to the Lord. I don't like this feeling at all.
I've willfully sinned against God due to my own selfishness, and internal turmoils. Instead of running to Him, I've often run FROM Him. And I do honestly know better. I'm thankful for a Heavenly Father who loves me, draws me to Himself, and restores my soul. (No further details will be discussed here).
I've forsaken the wonderful Wednesday Evening Prayer Meeting at my local church. But no more...I will be there in 2008, regularly.
There is plenty more to confess, but this post can only be so long.
I made it through another year of my very engaging (and exhausting) work at Coyne American Institute here in Chicago (www.coyneamerican.edu).
I finally became a member of The Moody Church--where I've been worshipping for quite a while now (www.moodychurch.org).
I lived through a serious bout with the flu, and later bronchitis (February/March) with subzero temperatures being the norm here in the Chicago area.
I survived the "subprime mortgage" debaucle, and took a great loss on my condo--which I no longer own. I am now, very happily, renting again.
I attended several weddings of friends who decided to "tie the knot"--and happily so. My friend Aaron Kuglin (in Decatur, GA) had a short engagement, and asked me to be part of his wedding...I was delighted, humbled, and honored.
I visited my old stomping grounds in Cleveland, TN during the weekend of Lee University's homecoming (www.leeuniversity.edu). God allowed me to see many, many people whom I've not seen in a long time...some more than 20 years. This caused my heart and soul to rejoice.
But not everything has been "so rosy":
I've fallen behind on my tithing and giving to the Lord. I don't like this feeling at all.
I've willfully sinned against God due to my own selfishness, and internal turmoils. Instead of running to Him, I've often run FROM Him. And I do honestly know better. I'm thankful for a Heavenly Father who loves me, draws me to Himself, and restores my soul. (No further details will be discussed here).
I've forsaken the wonderful Wednesday Evening Prayer Meeting at my local church. But no more...I will be there in 2008, regularly.
There is plenty more to confess, but this post can only be so long.
What "tomorrow" brings....
Well, it's New Year's Eve, and in less than 12 hours, we will be starting the calendar year of 2008.
My, oh my, how time flies....
But we have "this moment today." While I look back on all the successes, failures, wishes, dreams, nightmares of 2007--I can't do anything about them. All I can do now is to commit them to the hands of an all-wise God....who sees the end from the beginning anyway.
As Gloria Gaither so wonderfully said,
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.
We have this moment, today.
May I remember those profound, yet simple truths in 2008.
My, oh my, how time flies....
But we have "this moment today." While I look back on all the successes, failures, wishes, dreams, nightmares of 2007--I can't do anything about them. All I can do now is to commit them to the hands of an all-wise God....who sees the end from the beginning anyway.
As Gloria Gaither so wonderfully said,
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.
We have this moment, today.
May I remember those profound, yet simple truths in 2008.
Youth With a Mission--Pakistan
In light of the tragic assassination of Benazir Bhutto--former Prime Minister of Pakistan--I wanted to post the link to a wonderful organization who is preaching the gospel of Christ to the people of this terribly divided nation.
http://www.ywampakistan.com/
We are commissioned to "preach the gospel" and sometimes this requires us to sacrifice everything.
In this time of unspeakable tragedy, let us pray for the spread of the Gospel in Pakistan.
Let us pray that God will "send forth more laborers." Pakistan needs more laborers.
Is God calling you there? Is God calling me there?
http://www.ywampakistan.com/
We are commissioned to "preach the gospel" and sometimes this requires us to sacrifice everything.
In this time of unspeakable tragedy, let us pray for the spread of the Gospel in Pakistan.
Let us pray that God will "send forth more laborers." Pakistan needs more laborers.
Is God calling you there? Is God calling me there?
Ron Paul for President: A RESOUNDING "NO!"
I woke up very early on Monday morning (like 3 a.m. central time), and just happen to stumble into the living room, and turned on the television. Much to my delight, Channel 5 (NBC) was re-airing Sunday's MEET THE PRESS with host/moderator Tim Russert.
His guest was Dr Ron Paul--the obstetrician-turned-Congressman from Texas.
I was sorta glad that Congressman Paul was on...so when I would eventually "go back to sleep" I knew that I wouldn't be missing very much.
The man's insanity--for some strange reason--fascinated me. He was "railing" against government--while he's been on the Federal payroll for more than a dozen years.
He was "railing" against foreign policy--yet his GOP has had control of the White House for the last 7+ years.
He was "railing" against federal taxes (which I could partially agree with him about), but he had no plan to pay for "anything"...
This man was very unprepared drama at it's worst.
And how anyone could possibly consider supporting him or giving a dime to his campaign is beyond me.
It is a resounding "NO" to Ron Paul...and particularly not for President of the United States.
His guest was Dr Ron Paul--the obstetrician-turned-Congressman from Texas.
I was sorta glad that Congressman Paul was on...so when I would eventually "go back to sleep" I knew that I wouldn't be missing very much.
The man's insanity--for some strange reason--fascinated me. He was "railing" against government--while he's been on the Federal payroll for more than a dozen years.
He was "railing" against foreign policy--yet his GOP has had control of the White House for the last 7+ years.
He was "railing" against federal taxes (which I could partially agree with him about), but he had no plan to pay for "anything"...
This man was very unprepared drama at it's worst.
And how anyone could possibly consider supporting him or giving a dime to his campaign is beyond me.
It is a resounding "NO" to Ron Paul...and particularly not for President of the United States.
We must do more!
National Public Radio's "All Things Considered" program is doing a special report on our military veterans who are suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)--a very serious problem for thousands of men and women who are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The link is http://www.npr.org/
Click on the left-side scroll that is labeled "All Things Considered."
My heart breaks to hear of the awful way this nation is allowing our military service personnel to be treated. Any person who is diagnosed with PTSD or TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) should be eligible to receive full medical benefits and treatment. No questions asked.
May God have mercy on our service personnel. May we learn to do the same.
The link is http://www.npr.org/
Click on the left-side scroll that is labeled "All Things Considered."
My heart breaks to hear of the awful way this nation is allowing our military service personnel to be treated. Any person who is diagnosed with PTSD or TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) should be eligible to receive full medical benefits and treatment. No questions asked.
May God have mercy on our service personnel. May we learn to do the same.
Some wonderful music from yesteryear...
I first heard of Cynthia Clawson more than 25 years ago, when I was just a sophomore in college.
A friend loaned me an LP album entitled "You're Welcome Here."
I fell in love with this woman's minstry from that point on.
She has recently re-released some of the wonderful, vintage music of her earlier ministry years.
Check it out here:
www.cynthiaclawson.com
My very favorites of Cynthia's music:
It Won't Rain Always
I Heard about a Man
You're Always Welcome Here
The Best if Yet to Come
Forever...
You will be blest and encouraged by this magnificent voice and the message she sings.
A friend loaned me an LP album entitled "You're Welcome Here."
I fell in love with this woman's minstry from that point on.
She has recently re-released some of the wonderful, vintage music of her earlier ministry years.
Check it out here:
www.cynthiaclawson.com
My very favorites of Cynthia's music:
It Won't Rain Always
I Heard about a Man
You're Always Welcome Here
The Best if Yet to Come
Forever...
You will be blest and encouraged by this magnificent voice and the message she sings.
Just in! My "evaluation"...
I received a holiday greeting from a long-time friend a few minutes ago, via this wonder called the "world wide web." I want to share it with all of you:
_______________________________________________________
After serious and cautious consideration…your contract of friendship has been renewed for the New Year 2008 !
It was a very hard decision to make. So try not to screw it up !!! (smile)
My wish for you in 2008:
May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts.
May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet for $100 bills.
May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips !
May you clothes smell of success and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy.
May the problems you had forget your home address!
In simple words……………….
May 2008 be the best year of your life !!!
____________________________
Thanks Al, I really, really needed that one today...and it has already encouraged me.
And I wish that for everyone who pays me a visit here in my "corner of the world."
_______________________________________________________
After serious and cautious consideration…your contract of friendship has been renewed for the New Year 2008 !
It was a very hard decision to make. So try not to screw it up !!! (smile)
My wish for you in 2008:
May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts.
May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet for $100 bills.
May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips !
May you clothes smell of success and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy.
May the problems you had forget your home address!
In simple words……………….
May 2008 be the best year of your life !!!
____________________________
Thanks Al, I really, really needed that one today...and it has already encouraged me.
And I wish that for everyone who pays me a visit here in my "corner of the world."
Integrity and Accountability...in Ministry...
Noted author and evangelist, Carl Richardson speaks clearly, yet boldly to the current "crises" facing "Christian ministries" here in the United States.
Read this article:
http://www.beyondborders.com/carl12-07.html
Read this article:
http://www.beyondborders.com/carl12-07.html
Here's a good one...
Someone shared this on another forum. I think it's great:
___________________________________________
'Twas The (Politically Correct) Night Before Christmas:
'Twas the night before Christmas and Santa's a wreck...
How to live in a world that's politically correct?
His workers no longer would answer to "Elves".
"Vertically Challenged" they were calling themselves.
And labor conditions at the north pole
Were alleged by the union to stifle the soul.
Four reindeer had vanished, without much propriety,
Released to the wilds by the Humane Society.
And equal employment had made it quite clear
That Santa had better not use just reindeer.
So Dancer and Donner, Comet and Cupid,
Were replaced with 4 pigs, and you know that looked stupid!
The runners had been removed from his sleigh;
The ruts were termed dangerous by the E.P.A.
And people had started to call for the cops
When they heard sled noises on their roof-tops.
Second-hand smoke from his pipe had his workers quite frightened.
His fur trimmed red suit was called "Unenlightened."
And to show you the strangeness of life's ebbs and flows,
Rudolf was suing over unauthorized use of his nose
And had gone on OPRAH, in front of the nation,
Demanding millions in over-due compensation.
So, half of the reindeer were gone; and his wife,
Who suddenly said she'd enough of this life,
Joined a self-help group, packed, and left in a whiz,
Demanding from now on her title was Ms.
And as for the gifts, why, he'd ne'er had a notion
That making a choice could cause so much commotion.
Nothing of leather, nothing of fur,
Which meant nothing for him. And nothing for her.
Nothing that might be construed to pollute.
Nothing to aim. Nothing to shoot.
Nothing that clamored or made lots of noise.
Nothing for just girls. Or just for the boys.
Nothing that claimed to be gender specific.
Nothing that's warlike or non-pacifistic.
No candy or sweets...they were bad for the tooth.
Nothing that seemed to embellish a truth.
And fairy tales, while not yet forbidden,
Were like Ken and Barbie, better off hidden.
For they raised the hackles of those psychological
Who claimed the only good gift was one ecological.
No baseball, no football...someone could get hurt;
Besides, playing sports exposed kids to dirt.
Dolls were said to be sexist, and should be passe;
And Nintendo would rot your entire brain away.
So Santa just stood there, disheveled, perplexed;
He just could not figure out what to do next.
He tried to be merry, tried to be gay,
you've got to be careful with that word today.
His sack was quite empty, limp to the ground;
Nothing fully acceptable was to be found.
Something special was needed, a gift that he might
Give to all without angering the left or the right.
A gift that would satisfy, with no indecision,
Each group of people, every religion;
Every ethnicity, every hue,
Everyone, everywhere...even you.
So here is that gift, it's price beyond worth...
"May you and your loved ones enjoy peace on earth."
_____________________________________________
This marvelous piece of poetry says so much about our culture and how far we have either progressed or drifted. I'll let you make the decision on the direction.
___________________________________________
'Twas The (Politically Correct) Night Before Christmas:
'Twas the night before Christmas and Santa's a wreck...
How to live in a world that's politically correct?
His workers no longer would answer to "Elves".
"Vertically Challenged" they were calling themselves.
And labor conditions at the north pole
Were alleged by the union to stifle the soul.
Four reindeer had vanished, without much propriety,
Released to the wilds by the Humane Society.
And equal employment had made it quite clear
That Santa had better not use just reindeer.
So Dancer and Donner, Comet and Cupid,
Were replaced with 4 pigs, and you know that looked stupid!
The runners had been removed from his sleigh;
The ruts were termed dangerous by the E.P.A.
And people had started to call for the cops
When they heard sled noises on their roof-tops.
Second-hand smoke from his pipe had his workers quite frightened.
His fur trimmed red suit was called "Unenlightened."
And to show you the strangeness of life's ebbs and flows,
Rudolf was suing over unauthorized use of his nose
And had gone on OPRAH, in front of the nation,
Demanding millions in over-due compensation.
So, half of the reindeer were gone; and his wife,
Who suddenly said she'd enough of this life,
Joined a self-help group, packed, and left in a whiz,
Demanding from now on her title was Ms.
And as for the gifts, why, he'd ne'er had a notion
That making a choice could cause so much commotion.
Nothing of leather, nothing of fur,
Which meant nothing for him. And nothing for her.
Nothing that might be construed to pollute.
Nothing to aim. Nothing to shoot.
Nothing that clamored or made lots of noise.
Nothing for just girls. Or just for the boys.
Nothing that claimed to be gender specific.
Nothing that's warlike or non-pacifistic.
No candy or sweets...they were bad for the tooth.
Nothing that seemed to embellish a truth.
And fairy tales, while not yet forbidden,
Were like Ken and Barbie, better off hidden.
For they raised the hackles of those psychological
Who claimed the only good gift was one ecological.
No baseball, no football...someone could get hurt;
Besides, playing sports exposed kids to dirt.
Dolls were said to be sexist, and should be passe;
And Nintendo would rot your entire brain away.
So Santa just stood there, disheveled, perplexed;
He just could not figure out what to do next.
He tried to be merry, tried to be gay,
you've got to be careful with that word today.
His sack was quite empty, limp to the ground;
Nothing fully acceptable was to be found.
Something special was needed, a gift that he might
Give to all without angering the left or the right.
A gift that would satisfy, with no indecision,
Each group of people, every religion;
Every ethnicity, every hue,
Everyone, everywhere...even you.
So here is that gift, it's price beyond worth...
"May you and your loved ones enjoy peace on earth."
_____________________________________________
This marvelous piece of poetry says so much about our culture and how far we have either progressed or drifted. I'll let you make the decision on the direction.
My Spiritual Home...The Moody Church
For the first time since 1973, I have become a member of a non-Pentecostal/non-Charismatic church...a true-blue, card-carrying member.
I remember hearing the worship services of the historical Moody Church in Chicago for many, many years before I ever actually moved to the Windy City. Thanks to the Moody Broadcasting Network (and WMBW-FM, Chattanooga in particular), I was able to join in the wonderful music, and the tremendous preaching from the sanctuary of The Moody Church on many occasions.
My very first visit to The Moody Church was in September 2000, less than one month after I arrived in Chicago. I fell in love with the place immediately. I made the decision (after much prayer and contemplation) to call "Moody Church" my home for the time being.
In October 2002, I felt the Lord pulling me elsewhere, and so I followed. For three years, I was a "card-carrying" member of another congregation in the city of Chicago. But I never forgot the wonderful "family" down @ 1609 N LaSalle Street.
As providence and circumstances would have it, I returned to The Moody Church in November 2005. It was an easy decision for me, once I decided to leave the former congregation.
Some two years later--November 2007--I became an official member of this wonderful historic congregation.
I am delighted...thrilled, honored, and humbled.
Check out the website: www.moodychurch.org
I remember hearing the worship services of the historical Moody Church in Chicago for many, many years before I ever actually moved to the Windy City. Thanks to the Moody Broadcasting Network (and WMBW-FM, Chattanooga in particular), I was able to join in the wonderful music, and the tremendous preaching from the sanctuary of The Moody Church on many occasions.
My very first visit to The Moody Church was in September 2000, less than one month after I arrived in Chicago. I fell in love with the place immediately. I made the decision (after much prayer and contemplation) to call "Moody Church" my home for the time being.
In October 2002, I felt the Lord pulling me elsewhere, and so I followed. For three years, I was a "card-carrying" member of another congregation in the city of Chicago. But I never forgot the wonderful "family" down @ 1609 N LaSalle Street.
As providence and circumstances would have it, I returned to The Moody Church in November 2005. It was an easy decision for me, once I decided to leave the former congregation.
Some two years later--November 2007--I became an official member of this wonderful historic congregation.
I am delighted...thrilled, honored, and humbled.
Check out the website: www.moodychurch.org
One More Day...
Famed author Mitch Albiom's book "For One More Day" is a profound gift to our nation and to humanity at large. It's such a profound work that OPRAH has made it into a primetime movie--to be seen this Sunday evening on ABC. And I hate this phrase, but it's apropos here: "Check your local listings."
But now I want to ask YOU a question.
If you knew, 1000% certain, that you had only one more day left, what would you do?
Who would you spend it with?
I'm absolutely certain there are some things I would NOT do:
Check my bank account balance
Mow the lawn (not that I do that anyway...my landlord does!)
Worry about what is in the kitchen cupboard
Check all the sports scores
Argue theology with those who don't see things the way I do exactly
Worry about who will occupy the Oval Office in January 2009
Worry about email or voice messages
Complain about the weather, traffic, or rude people.
What would you do if you only had "one more day"?
But now I want to ask YOU a question.
If you knew, 1000% certain, that you had only one more day left, what would you do?
Who would you spend it with?
I'm absolutely certain there are some things I would NOT do:
Check my bank account balance
Mow the lawn (not that I do that anyway...my landlord does!)
Worry about what is in the kitchen cupboard
Check all the sports scores
Argue theology with those who don't see things the way I do exactly
Worry about who will occupy the Oval Office in January 2009
Worry about email or voice messages
Complain about the weather, traffic, or rude people.
What would you do if you only had "one more day"?
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