While walking by the sea, "Come and follow Me" Jesus called.
Then all through Galilee, the sick and the diseased,
He healed them all!
Jesus hasn't changed, His power is still the same
As when He walked the shores.
This God of yesterday is still the healing Jesus
Now and evermore!
What a healing Jesus I've found in You!
What a healing Jesus, You refresh, restore, and renew!
You're my healing Jesus for such a time as this
Arise on healing wings, O Sun of Righteousness!
The Spirit of the Lord now is upon Me, anointing Me
To heal the broken heart, open prison doors, to set captives free.
To comfort those who mourn, and fill their lips with praise
To pour the oil of joy...
That we may be called "the trees of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord."
What a healing Jesus I've found in You!
What a healing Jesus, You restore, refresh, and renew!
You're my healing Jesus for such a time as this!
Arise on healing wings, O Sun of Righteousness.
**Thank you, Mary Brown, for allowing the Holy Spirit of God to inspire such a wonderful song, reminding us of the healing powers of our great Jesus! I've sang this song many, many times--watching God restore hope and life to those who have needed to hear that JESUS still heals today. Your ministry has blest the Body of Christ all over the world.
"Red Flags You Probably Missed"...
A Classic sermon on "marriage" by my senior Pastor, Dr Erwin W Lutzer. Here it is...He preached it last Sunday morning...
http://www.lightsource.com/ministry/running_to_win/20090913/
It was gripping, enlightening, entertaining, and sobering.
Listen to it....a couple of times.
http://www.lightsource.com/ministry/running_to_win/20090913/
It was gripping, enlightening, entertaining, and sobering.
Listen to it....a couple of times.
My heart is breaking....
Six and one-half weeks ago, a precious gift from God arrived here in Chicago. Asher Samuel Ramirez (nicknamed "Bear" by his father) arrived about 4.5 months early to his wonderful parents, Vince and Lark Ramirez. He was less than 2 lbs, and just a very, very tiny little fellow.
A few days later, I had the great joy of visiting him in the NICU at Northwestern Hospital...with his absolutely joyous Mom and Dad showing me his perfectly formed fingers and toes. I stood there, silently asking God to bring this child to his full and natural birth weight and growth. I knew that Asher was receiving the very best care he could get.
You can read about him here:
www.bearramirez.blogspot.com
Last Sunday (four days ago) I was able to pay my second visit over to Asher--now at Children's Memorial Hospital in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. His condition had worsened...considerably.
I just received word that this precious child is now in the arms of the LOVING SHEPHERD JESUS. I can't begin to imagine what Vince and Lark are going through right now. I'm wiping tears from my eyes as I am typing this note......
Before I left the hospital on Sunday afternoon, I put my arms around Vince and could hardly hold back the tears...not knowing how close to "going home" this adorable little boy would be.
He is now perfectly formed. He is now perfectly safe...He is now perfectly at rest...and waiting for his parents to see this wonderful place Whose Builder and Maker is God.
Please pray for my loving friends, Vince and Lark Ramirez.
I can't help but cry now.
A few days later, I had the great joy of visiting him in the NICU at Northwestern Hospital...with his absolutely joyous Mom and Dad showing me his perfectly formed fingers and toes. I stood there, silently asking God to bring this child to his full and natural birth weight and growth. I knew that Asher was receiving the very best care he could get.
You can read about him here:
www.bearramirez.blogspot.com
Last Sunday (four days ago) I was able to pay my second visit over to Asher--now at Children's Memorial Hospital in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. His condition had worsened...considerably.
I just received word that this precious child is now in the arms of the LOVING SHEPHERD JESUS. I can't begin to imagine what Vince and Lark are going through right now. I'm wiping tears from my eyes as I am typing this note......
Before I left the hospital on Sunday afternoon, I put my arms around Vince and could hardly hold back the tears...not knowing how close to "going home" this adorable little boy would be.
He is now perfectly formed. He is now perfectly safe...He is now perfectly at rest...and waiting for his parents to see this wonderful place Whose Builder and Maker is God.
Please pray for my loving friends, Vince and Lark Ramirez.
I can't help but cry now.
A blast from the past...
Tears often fall from my face in sorrow
As I walk on thru the long lonely night.
So often I cry and it seems no one hears me;
Then thru the shadows I can see the dawning of light.
The shadows may fall and my cross gets heavy,
Sometimes it seems that I'll never see another day dawning.
But I remember His words though the night finds me weeping
He promised me, and surely there'll be joy in the morning.
Soon this old life and all of it's trials
Will be left behind for there's a new day a dawning.
And the shadows of sin will vanish forever
forever I'll find the sun always shines
Joy in the morning!
I remember hearing this wonderful song more than 30 years ago. If my memory serves me correctly, Aaron Wilburn wrote it. The first time I can remember hearing it was when Jill Kendrick (Stone) came and sang it in our local church in Huntsville, Alabama. I've gone back to the message of this song many, many times.
The LORD does give us joy in the morning. Sometimes those nights are VERY, VERY long...but He brings peace and joy like no other. He brings victory and freedom. Praise His name!
As I walk on thru the long lonely night.
So often I cry and it seems no one hears me;
Then thru the shadows I can see the dawning of light.
The shadows may fall and my cross gets heavy,
Sometimes it seems that I'll never see another day dawning.
But I remember His words though the night finds me weeping
He promised me, and surely there'll be joy in the morning.
Soon this old life and all of it's trials
Will be left behind for there's a new day a dawning.
And the shadows of sin will vanish forever
forever I'll find the sun always shines
Joy in the morning!
I remember hearing this wonderful song more than 30 years ago. If my memory serves me correctly, Aaron Wilburn wrote it. The first time I can remember hearing it was when Jill Kendrick (Stone) came and sang it in our local church in Huntsville, Alabama. I've gone back to the message of this song many, many times.
The LORD does give us joy in the morning. Sometimes those nights are VERY, VERY long...but He brings peace and joy like no other. He brings victory and freedom. Praise His name!
Healthcare Reform: The 'forgotten factor"
It is no secret that I firmly believe that we need TRUE and REAL healthcare reform in this nation. I have many friends who are medical professionals (most of them very, very conservative in their thinking) who believe that we are YEARS behind where we should be in reforming our healthcare systems in this country.
But there is ONE factor that hasn't come up in the debate: Personal responsibility.
As I stated somewhere else (can't remember exactly where), NO HEALTHCARE REFORM will be effective, lasting, or worthwhile if the mindset of the "American consumer" is not considerably altered in how and why and when they access their "health care" options.
Example: My mother is a chain smoker. Has been all of my life, and I suspect YEARS before I was ever born. Her personal physician has warned her for years that the cigarettes would eventually kill her. She has suffered with many, many health problems--directly related to her nicotine habit. She REFUSES to stop smoking. Yet, she is seeing her doctor all the time to see how he can medicate her for various breathing/health ailments--all related to her cigarette smoking and self-abuse of her own health for more than four decades. Where does the insurance company, and the primary care physician say, "We aren't going to spend our resources on this patient who refuses to take responsibility for her own health"?
Example: I am preparing to be a kidney donor for a wonderful, wonderful friend who desperately needs a transplant. The surgical team performing the procedures have basically already given me instructions for "after-care" and what I can expect once my left kidney has been removed from my body and transplanted into the recipient. What if I completely IGNORE the advice and warnings and instructions...and later run into SEVERE medical/health problems because I didn't follow "medical instructions"? What kind of obligations does my health insurer have to me in this case? What repercussions must I assume, since I am the one deliberately not following professional, medical instructions after major surgery?
Example: I have worked in two separate medical facilities (smaller hospitals) in two very different settings (Cleveland, TN and Chicago, IL) as an Emergency Room Clerk, and on a medical-surgical ward. I've seen all the "repeat offenders" coming through both departments of the respective hospitals. Most of these people have some type of insurance--either private insurance, or one of the "public options" (Medicare, Medicaid, or Public Aid) that is already in place in both states. Ninety-Nine percent of these patients who present themselves to the Emergency Room(s) do so late at night, on a weekend, when their primary physician(s) are normally on call, or out of reach. Most of these situations are not "emergency"....in fact, most of these people refuse to see their own primary care physician, for whatever reason.
I remember one such person, who had just been discharged from the hospital in Tennessee, and about 20 minutes later was in the Walgreen Parking lot smoking a joint that someone had brought to him when they picked him up from the hospital. Later that night he was b ack in the Emergency Room of Bradley Memorial Hospital....complaining of severe breathing problems. What should be done in this case?
The forgotten factor, in my considered opinion, in this whole debate is how the American consumer should adjust to accessing their health care systems once the reforms have been passed and enacted. There is WIDESPREAD abuse in the health care systems, simply because NO ONE is being held accountable for abusing the consumption of services, unnecessarily.
This is the forgotten factor...the 8000 lb elephant in the room. He's not going anywhere as long as he's being ignored. Someone must realize he is there.
But there is ONE factor that hasn't come up in the debate: Personal responsibility.
As I stated somewhere else (can't remember exactly where), NO HEALTHCARE REFORM will be effective, lasting, or worthwhile if the mindset of the "American consumer" is not considerably altered in how and why and when they access their "health care" options.
Example: My mother is a chain smoker. Has been all of my life, and I suspect YEARS before I was ever born. Her personal physician has warned her for years that the cigarettes would eventually kill her. She has suffered with many, many health problems--directly related to her nicotine habit. She REFUSES to stop smoking. Yet, she is seeing her doctor all the time to see how he can medicate her for various breathing/health ailments--all related to her cigarette smoking and self-abuse of her own health for more than four decades. Where does the insurance company, and the primary care physician say, "We aren't going to spend our resources on this patient who refuses to take responsibility for her own health"?
Example: I am preparing to be a kidney donor for a wonderful, wonderful friend who desperately needs a transplant. The surgical team performing the procedures have basically already given me instructions for "after-care" and what I can expect once my left kidney has been removed from my body and transplanted into the recipient. What if I completely IGNORE the advice and warnings and instructions...and later run into SEVERE medical/health problems because I didn't follow "medical instructions"? What kind of obligations does my health insurer have to me in this case? What repercussions must I assume, since I am the one deliberately not following professional, medical instructions after major surgery?
Example: I have worked in two separate medical facilities (smaller hospitals) in two very different settings (Cleveland, TN and Chicago, IL) as an Emergency Room Clerk, and on a medical-surgical ward. I've seen all the "repeat offenders" coming through both departments of the respective hospitals. Most of these people have some type of insurance--either private insurance, or one of the "public options" (Medicare, Medicaid, or Public Aid) that is already in place in both states. Ninety-Nine percent of these patients who present themselves to the Emergency Room(s) do so late at night, on a weekend, when their primary physician(s) are normally on call, or out of reach. Most of these situations are not "emergency"....in fact, most of these people refuse to see their own primary care physician, for whatever reason.
I remember one such person, who had just been discharged from the hospital in Tennessee, and about 20 minutes later was in the Walgreen Parking lot smoking a joint that someone had brought to him when they picked him up from the hospital. Later that night he was b ack in the Emergency Room of Bradley Memorial Hospital....complaining of severe breathing problems. What should be done in this case?
The forgotten factor, in my considered opinion, in this whole debate is how the American consumer should adjust to accessing their health care systems once the reforms have been passed and enacted. There is WIDESPREAD abuse in the health care systems, simply because NO ONE is being held accountable for abusing the consumption of services, unnecessarily.
This is the forgotten factor...the 8000 lb elephant in the room. He's not going anywhere as long as he's being ignored. Someone must realize he is there.
Think about this.....
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." I'm thankful...I'm humbled, and I'm amazed at His grace. We all should be.
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." I'm thankful...I'm humbled, and I'm amazed at His grace. We all should be.
I'm not going...
I'm not going to Mark's ordination tomorrow (Sunday, September 6th). While I would love to support someone who has meant a great deal to me for more than eight years now; someone who lived in my apartment for two summers, and someone that I love as much as any one I can think of...I'm just can't make myself go to his ordination tomorrow evening.
I don't want to be bitter, angry, or even hurt. I'm not bitter...and I'm definitely not angry. I do feel some hurt...and this too shall pass.
Eventually.
I don't want to set myself up for something that I am not expecting, for something that could be very difficult. I just hope I made the right decision.
I don't want to be bitter, angry, or even hurt. I'm not bitter...and I'm definitely not angry. I do feel some hurt...and this too shall pass.
Eventually.
I don't want to set myself up for something that I am not expecting, for something that could be very difficult. I just hope I made the right decision.
This classic...
from the ministry of the late Dottie Rambo has been on my mind all day long:
I didn't come here to ask You for anything
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
You've answered a million prayers or more
That I forgot to thank You for,
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
Maybe tomorrow, there'll be trouble and sorrow
And a thousand tear drops may fall.
But until I face tomorrow's task
There is no special favor to ask,
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
It seems like we Christ-followers have a "wish list" or "request list" every time we want to talk with the Lord. Why is that? Would YOU want to talk with someone who never acknowledges/communicates with YOU unless THEY wanted something from YOU?
Quite honestly, NO, I wouldn't. I've gone so far (in the not too distant past) as to let my friends know that if the only time I hear from them is when they want something, then I'd rather not hear from them. I would hope that our relationship(s) are valued on the person(s), not just what someone can do for us.
I am beginning to feel the same way about my Lord Jesus. I want to love Him because HE IS....because I am so enamored and enchanted, and overwhelmed with HIM...not just what HE can do for me...
My friend Alex and I were talking about Matthew 6:24-34 again recently. We want to know Christ and the righteousness of God...not just for what HE can do for us...but because HE IS.
"So until I face tomorrow's task..."
I didn't come here to ask You for anything
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
You've answered a million prayers or more
That I forgot to thank You for,
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
Maybe tomorrow, there'll be trouble and sorrow
And a thousand tear drops may fall.
But until I face tomorrow's task
There is no special favor to ask,
I just came to talk with You, Lord.
It seems like we Christ-followers have a "wish list" or "request list" every time we want to talk with the Lord. Why is that? Would YOU want to talk with someone who never acknowledges/communicates with YOU unless THEY wanted something from YOU?
Quite honestly, NO, I wouldn't. I've gone so far (in the not too distant past) as to let my friends know that if the only time I hear from them is when they want something, then I'd rather not hear from them. I would hope that our relationship(s) are valued on the person(s), not just what someone can do for us.
I am beginning to feel the same way about my Lord Jesus. I want to love Him because HE IS....because I am so enamored and enchanted, and overwhelmed with HIM...not just what HE can do for me...
My friend Alex and I were talking about Matthew 6:24-34 again recently. We want to know Christ and the righteousness of God...not just for what HE can do for us...but because HE IS.
"So until I face tomorrow's task..."
What should I do?
This has troubled me for a day or two now. Let me see if I can lay all the information (in an understandable, coherent manner) out for you. I really do need some feedback on this one.
I have a friend...we'll call him Mark...he and I have been friends for more than eight years now. We can became good friends shortly after we both arrived here in the Chicago area. He is considerably younger than myself. A fine Christian, and just a good all around person.
We've been through a lot together. He's stayed in my home on two different occasions for a good length of time, and I was delighted to have him there. He knows more about me than most of my closest friends know about me. I've shared things with him that I have never shared with most people.
A few years ago, my friend got married, had a child (#2 is on the way), and started pursuing his dream of going to the mission field in full time ministry.
He lives out in the suburbs...but easily within a 30-45 minute commute.
He has basically ignored me for the last nine months. Pretended as though I either didn't exist, or just wasn't important enough to stay connected with...or maybe a combination of other things. The last time I saw him was at an event where I wound up being the pianist for the evening...completely unplanned...because the scheduled prepaid musician never showed up.
Ever since that time, I've almost been a non-entity.
I received an email (a couple weeks ago) telling me of his ordination examination at his local church...and how he wanted me to be there if at all possible....I received the EMAIL late one Saturday night...and the event was the very next day...and I already had obligations that couldn't be changed. He has all of my contact information (phone numbers, etc). I'd like to believe this was an oversight...but I'm having a hard time convincing myself of that.
His formal ordination into professional ministry is this Sunday, September 6th. In a very roundabout way, I've been invited to attend the ceremony. That means I'll have to get on the METRA, go out to the suburbs, attend a ceremony, and then come home. This was a last-minute, roundabout invitation that I received...
I'm very tempted to not go to the ceremony at all. While I love my friend dearly (I really, really do), I'm beginning to feel as though I'm disposable, and that I should let him "move on"--in other words, find the nearest "exit" out of his life. This possiblity causes me pain beyond description.
Or I could go to the ordination ceremony, keep my mouth shut, smile warmly, get back on the train, and return back to the city.
I'm just not sure. But I've got to make a decision soon.
I have a friend...we'll call him Mark...he and I have been friends for more than eight years now. We can became good friends shortly after we both arrived here in the Chicago area. He is considerably younger than myself. A fine Christian, and just a good all around person.
We've been through a lot together. He's stayed in my home on two different occasions for a good length of time, and I was delighted to have him there. He knows more about me than most of my closest friends know about me. I've shared things with him that I have never shared with most people.
A few years ago, my friend got married, had a child (#2 is on the way), and started pursuing his dream of going to the mission field in full time ministry.
He lives out in the suburbs...but easily within a 30-45 minute commute.
He has basically ignored me for the last nine months. Pretended as though I either didn't exist, or just wasn't important enough to stay connected with...or maybe a combination of other things. The last time I saw him was at an event where I wound up being the pianist for the evening...completely unplanned...because the scheduled prepaid musician never showed up.
Ever since that time, I've almost been a non-entity.
I received an email (a couple weeks ago) telling me of his ordination examination at his local church...and how he wanted me to be there if at all possible....I received the EMAIL late one Saturday night...and the event was the very next day...and I already had obligations that couldn't be changed. He has all of my contact information (phone numbers, etc). I'd like to believe this was an oversight...but I'm having a hard time convincing myself of that.
His formal ordination into professional ministry is this Sunday, September 6th. In a very roundabout way, I've been invited to attend the ceremony. That means I'll have to get on the METRA, go out to the suburbs, attend a ceremony, and then come home. This was a last-minute, roundabout invitation that I received...
I'm very tempted to not go to the ceremony at all. While I love my friend dearly (I really, really do), I'm beginning to feel as though I'm disposable, and that I should let him "move on"--in other words, find the nearest "exit" out of his life. This possiblity causes me pain beyond description.
Or I could go to the ordination ceremony, keep my mouth shut, smile warmly, get back on the train, and return back to the city.
I'm just not sure. But I've got to make a decision soon.
Why did you do that?
I was talking with a precious friend last night...about some deep stuff. This great brother in Christ is such a blessing in my life. The LORD knew exactly when this man should become a part of my life--and also how to bring him in. We actually became friends in the kitchen at Moody Church one Sunday evening, when I was preparing the "snacks" after the Sunday evening service. (I seem to develop a lot of friendships in the church kitchen.)
We've been praying for each other, and keeping each other encouraged in the dailyness of life. He's a gifted athlete, and aspires to be a college basketball coach some day. Now, he wants to be part of a "coaching team" somewhere...an admirable goal.
But as I was reading last night, the Lord brought him to mind. So, I called him. I wanted to share with him some of my life experiences about the "spotlight."
There is nothing wrong with having high aspirations and great goals in life. Nothing troubles me more than someone who never aims high at anything--because they will always achieve it, sadly enough. Yet, in our 'reaching for the top' we have to examine our motives. I always have to ask myself, "Why am I doing this?" Am I doing this because I want someone to see how 'accomplished' I have become? Am I doing this because I feel that I deserve the 'attention' that will come my way? Just why am I doing this?
About four years ago, I remember hearing someone famous person (can't remember their name for the life of me this morning) mention their personal addiction to the "narcotic of being noticed." And for those who think they are not addicted....I would encourage some close examination.
Why do I do what I do? Is it because I am personally gratified with a "job well done"? Is it because I want my "superiors" to promote me, or give me a raise, or elevate me? Am I performing because I want to "impress" someone, somewhere?
Honestly, I still struggle with "motives." We all do. That's where the power of God's love and acceptance...and His grace and glory come into play. My earnest and deepest prayer is that I will perform "well" because I want God to be pleased and glorified with the results of whatever I am doing. So "why did you do that"?
We've been praying for each other, and keeping each other encouraged in the dailyness of life. He's a gifted athlete, and aspires to be a college basketball coach some day. Now, he wants to be part of a "coaching team" somewhere...an admirable goal.
But as I was reading last night, the Lord brought him to mind. So, I called him. I wanted to share with him some of my life experiences about the "spotlight."
There is nothing wrong with having high aspirations and great goals in life. Nothing troubles me more than someone who never aims high at anything--because they will always achieve it, sadly enough. Yet, in our 'reaching for the top' we have to examine our motives. I always have to ask myself, "Why am I doing this?" Am I doing this because I want someone to see how 'accomplished' I have become? Am I doing this because I feel that I deserve the 'attention' that will come my way? Just why am I doing this?
About four years ago, I remember hearing someone famous person (can't remember their name for the life of me this morning) mention their personal addiction to the "narcotic of being noticed." And for those who think they are not addicted....I would encourage some close examination.
Why do I do what I do? Is it because I am personally gratified with a "job well done"? Is it because I want my "superiors" to promote me, or give me a raise, or elevate me? Am I performing because I want to "impress" someone, somewhere?
Honestly, I still struggle with "motives." We all do. That's where the power of God's love and acceptance...and His grace and glory come into play. My earnest and deepest prayer is that I will perform "well" because I want God to be pleased and glorified with the results of whatever I am doing. So "why did you do that"?
The challenge is on...
My friend Alex and I are challenging each other to memorize this very powerful passage from Sermon on the Mount:
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek.
For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek.
For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Nine Years Ago today...August 27, 2000
I moved from the safe environs of rural Cleveland, Tennessee, and moved to the windy city of Chicago, Illinois. I knew that God was in the move...even though there were many, many uncertainties that I would face.
These last nine years have been FULL of adventure. Finding jobs, changing jobs...finding a local church where I would be a parishioner, and even changing local churches at one point....living in FOUR different places...having a roommate on two different occasions. Writing a manuscript that I haven't published (which now needs some major revisions), getting involved with several worthy and worthwhile organizations that assist this nation's military veterans. Meeting great people all over the city...and from all over the world.
Living through the tragedy of September 11, 2001--I was working in an Emergency Call Center that day--and fearing that Chicago would be next. Thanking God for protecting this city on that fateful, awful day. Asking God to be with this nation, and particularly with the people of New York City as they sought to "recover" from the horrible pain inflicted upon them...and the nation.
Eating all the great "Chicago" food: Pizzas, Italian Beef Sandwiches, buffets, etc.
And becoming part of The Moody Church family (www.moodychurch.org) which is one of the very greatest joys in my entire life. Having listened to the "Moody Church Hour" for many years before moving here, I am still in awe and amazement every time I walk in the front door of my local church facilities. I feel so undeserving, and most definitely unworthy, of being part of such a historic, and wonderful place. This is God's plan in my life for this part of my life.
Yep, after nine years, I can say that I agree with these guys. Take a listen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3yX2ioutqk
They've got it just right. Come find out for yourself.
These last nine years have been FULL of adventure. Finding jobs, changing jobs...finding a local church where I would be a parishioner, and even changing local churches at one point....living in FOUR different places...having a roommate on two different occasions. Writing a manuscript that I haven't published (which now needs some major revisions), getting involved with several worthy and worthwhile organizations that assist this nation's military veterans. Meeting great people all over the city...and from all over the world.
Living through the tragedy of September 11, 2001--I was working in an Emergency Call Center that day--and fearing that Chicago would be next. Thanking God for protecting this city on that fateful, awful day. Asking God to be with this nation, and particularly with the people of New York City as they sought to "recover" from the horrible pain inflicted upon them...and the nation.
Eating all the great "Chicago" food: Pizzas, Italian Beef Sandwiches, buffets, etc.
And becoming part of The Moody Church family (www.moodychurch.org) which is one of the very greatest joys in my entire life. Having listened to the "Moody Church Hour" for many years before moving here, I am still in awe and amazement every time I walk in the front door of my local church facilities. I feel so undeserving, and most definitely unworthy, of being part of such a historic, and wonderful place. This is God's plan in my life for this part of my life.
Yep, after nine years, I can say that I agree with these guys. Take a listen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3yX2ioutqk
They've got it just right. Come find out for yourself.
Happy Birthday, Chris...
I know that I treasured your friendship, and our fellowship dearly. Something happened more than five years ago to our friendship...and we've not spoken since. I also know that today is your thirty-ninth birthday! I want to wish you a "Happy Birthday."
More than anything else, I'd like to see us make "right" what ever went 'wrong." As brothers in Christ, that is what we are called to be doing.
I pray for you often, and I think of you almost every Sunday evening...remembering how we once used that time to share our "hearts"--even though we were separated by many miles. Now I just talk to the Lord every Sunday evening at 9 p.m.
You are deeply and profoundly loved. Happy Birthday.
More than anything else, I'd like to see us make "right" what ever went 'wrong." As brothers in Christ, that is what we are called to be doing.
I pray for you often, and I think of you almost every Sunday evening...remembering how we once used that time to share our "hearts"--even though we were separated by many miles. Now I just talk to the Lord every Sunday evening at 9 p.m.
You are deeply and profoundly loved. Happy Birthday.
Happy Anniversary, TRAVIS and KELLY JOHNSON
Two of my great friends, Pastor Travis Johnson, and his INCOMPARABLE wife, Kelly Webb Johnson, are celebrating their TENTH Anniversary today.
These two are tremendous servants of God, and wonderful, wonderful people. There is SO much that could be said about both of them...but I'll leave that for my appearance on OPRAH someday...or at the very least, my interview with Barbara Walters...LOL
These two are tremendous servants of God, and wonderful, wonderful people. There is SO much that could be said about both of them...but I'll leave that for my appearance on OPRAH someday...or at the very least, my interview with Barbara Walters...LOL
Thirteen Years ago today...
I said "goodbye" to the United States Air Force. After TEN good years, it was time to hang up the uniform--and to face what the future would hold.
I remember it like it was yesterday. I had spent the night with my great friends, John and Laverne Dutkowsky (Laverne was active duty at the time) in Lubbock, Texas. Reese Air Force Base was my "last permanent duty" station...and four years in West Texas was MORE than enough for me.
I had a final breakfast with my great friend, Pastor David McQueen, from Trinity Church in Lubbock. David was (and continues to be) one of my very favorite people.
I flew from Lubbock, Texas to Chattanooga, Tennessee on that fateful day: August 20, 1996. I was headed back to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains so I could embark on the next "phase" of my life: Seminary.
Now, some 20 pounds heavier, and a lot less hair, I can look back and see the faithfulness of God in it all. I'm excited to see what the next 13 years (and hopefully more) will hold.
I remember it like it was yesterday. I had spent the night with my great friends, John and Laverne Dutkowsky (Laverne was active duty at the time) in Lubbock, Texas. Reese Air Force Base was my "last permanent duty" station...and four years in West Texas was MORE than enough for me.
I had a final breakfast with my great friend, Pastor David McQueen, from Trinity Church in Lubbock. David was (and continues to be) one of my very favorite people.
I flew from Lubbock, Texas to Chattanooga, Tennessee on that fateful day: August 20, 1996. I was headed back to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains so I could embark on the next "phase" of my life: Seminary.
Now, some 20 pounds heavier, and a lot less hair, I can look back and see the faithfulness of God in it all. I'm excited to see what the next 13 years (and hopefully more) will hold.
Of this I am sure...
"I know that my Redeemer lives:
What joy the blest assurance gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my Everliving Head!
He lives to bless me with His love!
He lives to plead for me above!
He lives my hungry soul to feed,
He lives to help in time of need.
He lives and grants me daily breath,
He lives and I shall conquer death!
He lives my mansion to prepare,
He lives to bring me safely there!
He lives, all glory to His name!
He lives, my Saviour, still the same!
What joy the blest assurance gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!
What joy the blest assurance gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my Everliving Head!
He lives to bless me with His love!
He lives to plead for me above!
He lives my hungry soul to feed,
He lives to help in time of need.
He lives and grants me daily breath,
He lives and I shall conquer death!
He lives my mansion to prepare,
He lives to bring me safely there!
He lives, all glory to His name!
He lives, my Saviour, still the same!
What joy the blest assurance gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!
Smartest thing I've read yet...
http://blog.sojo.net/2009/08/11/an-open-letter-to-conservative-christians-in-the-us-on-health-care/
Brian McLaren writes a powerful, thoughtful, and considerable essay/open letter regarding the health care debate/war/challenge that is currently sweeping this nation. This is, by far, one of the best things I've ever read....
Brian McLaren writes a powerful, thoughtful, and considerable essay/open letter regarding the health care debate/war/challenge that is currently sweeping this nation. This is, by far, one of the best things I've ever read....
What happened?
It seems like SO many in "my generation" (the crowd in their 40s now) have just 'done their own thing.' And I'm tremendously saddened and perplexed.
I was talking with a really close friend the other day about this. It seems that this crowd--raised in godly homes, good Pentecostal churches, and with good educations--has found no need for God or the family of God.
Especially the family of God.
A good friend of mine, whom I've not seen for more than 20 years...(but we've found each other on FaceBook recently)..raised in a pastor's home...great, godly people....has decided that the whole "organized religion" is not for him. He and his wife were raised in the church...and they know better. They suffered a couple of disappointments and just "left the whole thing."
Another friend of mine--from college days--has decided that GOD IS SILENT in his life...mainly because he has had some difficulties jobwise. At one point this man was a licensed minister...powerful, POWERFUL Pentecostal preacher...walked closely with Jesus...but has decided that since God won't "give him everything" he wants, that he will just leave God alone. He and his wife were raised in wonderful, godly homes, and in strong local churches. They have two teenagers....
Yet another friend, from youth camp days (back in the 1970s) has decided, in recent years---after a divorce for which he was mainly responsible---that he can "go it alone." In a recent conversation, he as much as told me, "I'm sick of the church folks...I'll stay at home, read my bible, and listen to the radio. I'm done with those people."
WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO MY GENERATION?
I was talking with a really close friend the other day about this. It seems that this crowd--raised in godly homes, good Pentecostal churches, and with good educations--has found no need for God or the family of God.
Especially the family of God.
A good friend of mine, whom I've not seen for more than 20 years...(but we've found each other on FaceBook recently)..raised in a pastor's home...great, godly people....has decided that the whole "organized religion" is not for him. He and his wife were raised in the church...and they know better. They suffered a couple of disappointments and just "left the whole thing."
Another friend of mine--from college days--has decided that GOD IS SILENT in his life...mainly because he has had some difficulties jobwise. At one point this man was a licensed minister...powerful, POWERFUL Pentecostal preacher...walked closely with Jesus...but has decided that since God won't "give him everything" he wants, that he will just leave God alone. He and his wife were raised in wonderful, godly homes, and in strong local churches. They have two teenagers....
Yet another friend, from youth camp days (back in the 1970s) has decided, in recent years---after a divorce for which he was mainly responsible---that he can "go it alone." In a recent conversation, he as much as told me, "I'm sick of the church folks...I'll stay at home, read my bible, and listen to the radio. I'm done with those people."
WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO MY GENERATION?
The Healthcare "Debate"...some considerations
It seems like all the "blowhards" and "talking heads" just don't want to stop and think about what "health care reform" COULD and SHOULD look like in these United States. The President, on more than one occasion, has tried to state what requirements any meaningful legislation must contain. While I didn't vote for Barack Obama to move into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, he is now our leader, and I have tremendous respect for his willingness to tackle this (and other) issue(s) head on. Here's what I see as the major "adjustments" and "considerations" for meaningful health care reform:
1) Preventive Maintenance. We Americans, for the most part, are just not "maintenance-minded." We far prefer to "repair" a health situation than we are disposed towards preventing the crises in the first place. A nurse practitioner recently told me that it is much easier (in the long run) for me to avoid diabetes and obesity than it is to "repair" myself if I come dangerously close to said conditions. But, in contemporary American thinking, "why should I avoid something that the doctors can fix anyway?" And thus, most of us are not disposed towards healthy preventive maintenance. It's far simpler to take a pill, or an injection, or an IV than it is to exercise more vigorously than we do (and for some of us, ANY exercise would be more vigorous than what we currently do--which is NONE.). Healthier lifestyles is the FIRST STEP to meaningful health care reform.
2. Importance of Primary Care. Far too many people still use the EMERGENCY ROOM as their "primary care facility." Many people (my observation from working in two hospitals in two different parts of the country) will go to the Emergency Room for things that are not even close being an "emergency." Many--both the privately insured, and the publicly insured--don't want the responsibility of seeing a regular physician...so they just show up at the Emergency Room whenever they jolly well feel like going. And current FEDERAL LAW states the ER personnel must give them medical attention. The Emergency Room is the MOST expensive and least effective means of continual medical care. The consuming public MUST stop abusing the Emergency Room facilities. These facilities are meant for EMERGENCIES only.
3. Insurance Reform. I am sick and tired of some non-medical professional at the insurance company telling MY primary care physician what treatments he can render on my behalf. While I understand the insurance companies must remain financially solvent....their SOLVENCY is not the first priority...my health is! I fully understand where the "concern" is about abusing the system...and that's where 'self-policing' and putting "restraints" on the medical facilities will come into play. We must curtail the abuse--HOWEVER, the insurance company CANNOT be allowed to dictate the level and quality of treatment my MEDICALLY TRAINED physicians can render on my behalf. Let the physicians do their jobs....
4. Tort Reform. Over the last 30+ years, the United States of America has become a LITIGATION-addicted nation. Doctors, nurses, and the rest of the medical professionals are HUMAN...just like the remainder of humanity. Mistakes will happen. Let me say that again: MISTAKES WILL HAPPEN. Having said that, every effort...ABSOLUTELY EVERY EFFORT must be made to minimize medical errors....and we must RESIST our urge to just "sue the daylights" out of everyone who unwittingly makes a mistake. These people (who make mistakes) should be held accountable...but running to the nearest ATTORNEY to file a lawsuit should be the ABSOLUTE last thing a Christian should be doing....We must have meaningful, workable tort reform where medical issues are concerned.
5. Lower the temperature. I remember someone saying (maybe it was from seminary days) that we need to have more "light than heat" in these debates. TOO MUCH HEAT from people who are swallowing all the misinformation that they can find. Too many people upset about things that have never been proposed, and will never be proposed. Too many people RUNNING OFF at the mouth instead of using their brain to think/process...or using their keyboards to send thoughtful/reasonable emails to their elected officials. A dear lady at my local church was all up in arms about "Obamacare"--and then when I asked her exactly what "Obamacare" would include, she had NO IDEA...but she was upset! She was downright frothing at the mouth...almost delirious...but had no idea what she was supposedly upset about....Needless to say, her credibility sunk like the Titanic...and much more quickly, I might add.
Like the rest of the nation, I am waiting to see what the proposals are for health care reform. I am convinced the BEST, most effective way to get good legislation and meaningful health care reform is to be involved in the process.
NOT frothing at the mouth, acting like an idiot, and behaving childishly. Every congressional representative (House and Senate) has an office with staff who answer their telephones. They all have email addresses. And if you are really old-fashioned, sit down and write them a reasonable, well-nuanced letter.
And turn LIMBAUGH/PALIN and Company off for a change. The silence will do you good.
1) Preventive Maintenance. We Americans, for the most part, are just not "maintenance-minded." We far prefer to "repair" a health situation than we are disposed towards preventing the crises in the first place. A nurse practitioner recently told me that it is much easier (in the long run) for me to avoid diabetes and obesity than it is to "repair" myself if I come dangerously close to said conditions. But, in contemporary American thinking, "why should I avoid something that the doctors can fix anyway?" And thus, most of us are not disposed towards healthy preventive maintenance. It's far simpler to take a pill, or an injection, or an IV than it is to exercise more vigorously than we do (and for some of us, ANY exercise would be more vigorous than what we currently do--which is NONE.). Healthier lifestyles is the FIRST STEP to meaningful health care reform.
2. Importance of Primary Care. Far too many people still use the EMERGENCY ROOM as their "primary care facility." Many people (my observation from working in two hospitals in two different parts of the country) will go to the Emergency Room for things that are not even close being an "emergency." Many--both the privately insured, and the publicly insured--don't want the responsibility of seeing a regular physician...so they just show up at the Emergency Room whenever they jolly well feel like going. And current FEDERAL LAW states the ER personnel must give them medical attention. The Emergency Room is the MOST expensive and least effective means of continual medical care. The consuming public MUST stop abusing the Emergency Room facilities. These facilities are meant for EMERGENCIES only.
3. Insurance Reform. I am sick and tired of some non-medical professional at the insurance company telling MY primary care physician what treatments he can render on my behalf. While I understand the insurance companies must remain financially solvent....their SOLVENCY is not the first priority...my health is! I fully understand where the "concern" is about abusing the system...and that's where 'self-policing' and putting "restraints" on the medical facilities will come into play. We must curtail the abuse--HOWEVER, the insurance company CANNOT be allowed to dictate the level and quality of treatment my MEDICALLY TRAINED physicians can render on my behalf. Let the physicians do their jobs....
4. Tort Reform. Over the last 30+ years, the United States of America has become a LITIGATION-addicted nation. Doctors, nurses, and the rest of the medical professionals are HUMAN...just like the remainder of humanity. Mistakes will happen. Let me say that again: MISTAKES WILL HAPPEN. Having said that, every effort...ABSOLUTELY EVERY EFFORT must be made to minimize medical errors....and we must RESIST our urge to just "sue the daylights" out of everyone who unwittingly makes a mistake. These people (who make mistakes) should be held accountable...but running to the nearest ATTORNEY to file a lawsuit should be the ABSOLUTE last thing a Christian should be doing....We must have meaningful, workable tort reform where medical issues are concerned.
5. Lower the temperature. I remember someone saying (maybe it was from seminary days) that we need to have more "light than heat" in these debates. TOO MUCH HEAT from people who are swallowing all the misinformation that they can find. Too many people upset about things that have never been proposed, and will never be proposed. Too many people RUNNING OFF at the mouth instead of using their brain to think/process...or using their keyboards to send thoughtful/reasonable emails to their elected officials. A dear lady at my local church was all up in arms about "Obamacare"--and then when I asked her exactly what "Obamacare" would include, she had NO IDEA...but she was upset! She was downright frothing at the mouth...almost delirious...but had no idea what she was supposedly upset about....Needless to say, her credibility sunk like the Titanic...and much more quickly, I might add.
Like the rest of the nation, I am waiting to see what the proposals are for health care reform. I am convinced the BEST, most effective way to get good legislation and meaningful health care reform is to be involved in the process.
NOT frothing at the mouth, acting like an idiot, and behaving childishly. Every congressional representative (House and Senate) has an office with staff who answer their telephones. They all have email addresses. And if you are really old-fashioned, sit down and write them a reasonable, well-nuanced letter.
And turn LIMBAUGH/PALIN and Company off for a change. The silence will do you good.
Shame on you, Sarah Palin!
I was thrilled when Senator John McCain snatched you out of the anals of obscurity last year, and gave you a platform.
I even voted for you. I deeply and sincerely hoped the McCain-Palin ticket would be in Washington, DC in January 2009. Even after you were such a hypocrite concerning "Oh no, Joe say it ain't so." I still believed you had good leadership abilities from which this nation could benefit. How wrong I was!
But your actions as of late have been disgraceful! Your lies and innuendoes concerning the healthcare debate are "beyond the pale." You insinuations about the "death panel" were so far beneath the dignity of thinking Americans, that I am completely embarrassed for you.
The entire nation applauded your decision to keep your precious little boy, even though he was diagnosed with Downs' Syndrome. You practiced what you preached concerning the "value of life." You endeared yourself to many people--even those who had no intention of voting for you.
But since the election, you have shown yourself to be less than professional. You quit a job that the people of Alaska hired to you do. You have added NOT ONE THING constructive to the healthcare debate that is currently going on (long overdue, I might add) in this country. Your vitriol is down right embarrassing to those of us who voted for you.
Sarah, OH NO, say it ain't so! But sadly, it is.
I even voted for you. I deeply and sincerely hoped the McCain-Palin ticket would be in Washington, DC in January 2009. Even after you were such a hypocrite concerning "Oh no, Joe say it ain't so." I still believed you had good leadership abilities from which this nation could benefit. How wrong I was!
But your actions as of late have been disgraceful! Your lies and innuendoes concerning the healthcare debate are "beyond the pale." You insinuations about the "death panel" were so far beneath the dignity of thinking Americans, that I am completely embarrassed for you.
The entire nation applauded your decision to keep your precious little boy, even though he was diagnosed with Downs' Syndrome. You practiced what you preached concerning the "value of life." You endeared yourself to many people--even those who had no intention of voting for you.
But since the election, you have shown yourself to be less than professional. You quit a job that the people of Alaska hired to you do. You have added NOT ONE THING constructive to the healthcare debate that is currently going on (long overdue, I might add) in this country. Your vitriol is down right embarrassing to those of us who voted for you.
Sarah, OH NO, say it ain't so! But sadly, it is.
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