My pastor, Erwin Lutzer, has written an incredible book that is a MUST read:
Slandering Jesus
I remember when Pastor Lutzer started preaching this series several years ago. It was powerful, and much needed.
Even more so is it needed today.
Please buy yourself a copy, and get one for a friend. Let's know the truth about God's Son!
To the land of "Biscuits and Gravy"
In about 24 hours, I will be headed to Midway Airport here in Chicago (south side), on my Southwest Airlines flight to Nashville, Tennessee. From there I will take a shuttle over to Chattanooga, TN...and my friend Dr Jimmy Harper will be picking me up, and taking me to his home in Cleveland TN--some 20 minutes north of Chattanooga. This is the "land of biscuits and gravy"...or at least one of them.
"What's the occasion?" you ask...wayul, lemme tell you all about it!
I'm really returning (temporarily) to the South for two wonderful reasons:
First, I am going to see some wonderful saints of God who have loved me (and whom I have been blest to love and know) for more than 30 years, before they graduate to Heaven. Far too many of these precious people went on to glory without me having the chance to say "Look for me." I can hardly wait to see these precious people...far too many to list here.
Second, I will be participating in the Homecoming events at my alma mater, Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu). I'll get to "reconnect" with alumni from all over the country, and with many of those great folk that I treasured when we were students at Lee--and treasure them even more now, some 20+ years later.
Of course, the South is known for it's wonderful "comfort" food.....and I plan to partake with great gusto and vigor.
Yep, it's the "land of biscuits and gravy" for me...
But I'll be back in The Windy City in no time...
"What's the occasion?" you ask...wayul, lemme tell you all about it!
I'm really returning (temporarily) to the South for two wonderful reasons:
First, I am going to see some wonderful saints of God who have loved me (and whom I have been blest to love and know) for more than 30 years, before they graduate to Heaven. Far too many of these precious people went on to glory without me having the chance to say "Look for me." I can hardly wait to see these precious people...far too many to list here.
Second, I will be participating in the Homecoming events at my alma mater, Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu). I'll get to "reconnect" with alumni from all over the country, and with many of those great folk that I treasured when we were students at Lee--and treasure them even more now, some 20+ years later.
Of course, the South is known for it's wonderful "comfort" food.....and I plan to partake with great gusto and vigor.
Yep, it's the "land of biscuits and gravy" for me...
But I'll be back in The Windy City in no time...
What I would like to see in America...
It seems that this nation barely survived the tumultuous election of 2004 (Bush Vs Kerry), and then the mid-term elections ( Republicans lost, and Democrats won--however temporary that may turn out to be), and now the 2008 Election Season is already in full swing! How can it be?
Be that as it may, there are some things I would love to see become "commonplace" in the United States of America:
1) A sense of civility returned to our society:
A) People with manners, both spoken and unspoken. "Yes sir" "No ma'am" and "Thank you", accompanied by "Please" and "How may I help you?"
B) Neighbors who remember they have neighbors. This includes, but is not limited to, playing electronic equipment of all kinds (that includes the Television) at a reasonable level, where no one else outside the confines of one's space can hear it. This also includes the kindness of checking on one's neighbors to make sure they are alright, and see if there are needs of any kind.
C) Employees (and employers) who realize that work is a privilege and responsibility in this nation. We are all better when we "work."
2) A sense of morality in our society again:
A) RESPONSIBILITY seems to be an awfully long word in a terribly foreign language lately. Everyone demands their "rights" but precious few want to own their "responsibilities" as well.
Where is the responsibility we all have for a safe, healthy environment? What about the responsibility to raise children in the fear and admonition of the Lord? What about the responsibility of "contribution" and not just "consumption"?
B) Our society has gone crazy sexually--and otherwise. We need to practice self-control and temperance again. Our appetites and desires are the force that "makes the world go 'round." Regardless of what the "tube" or anything else tells us, we must be a society that values "self-control" once again.
3) We must be a society that devalues "greed" in all it's forms:
A) I remember hearing someone say that "money is a great servant, and a horrible master." But it seems that "greed" is the new badge of honor. Recently someone told me that their boss only sees one color: GREEN. There is something terribly, horribly wrong with that picture.
B) Less is more. And if you don't believe me, trying "moving" your entire household--packing everything, finding boxes, and paying with it in blood, sweat, and tears...and backaches, etc. Do we really "need" all this stuff? I've decided that I don't.
These are issues that "politics" alone will not solve...and more than likely will never be addressed from the "stump."
But these are foundational issues...and our foundations in this nation seem to be crumbling...now is the time to stop the "rot."
Be that as it may, there are some things I would love to see become "commonplace" in the United States of America:
1) A sense of civility returned to our society:
A) People with manners, both spoken and unspoken. "Yes sir" "No ma'am" and "Thank you", accompanied by "Please" and "How may I help you?"
B) Neighbors who remember they have neighbors. This includes, but is not limited to, playing electronic equipment of all kinds (that includes the Television) at a reasonable level, where no one else outside the confines of one's space can hear it. This also includes the kindness of checking on one's neighbors to make sure they are alright, and see if there are needs of any kind.
C) Employees (and employers) who realize that work is a privilege and responsibility in this nation. We are all better when we "work."
2) A sense of morality in our society again:
A) RESPONSIBILITY seems to be an awfully long word in a terribly foreign language lately. Everyone demands their "rights" but precious few want to own their "responsibilities" as well.
Where is the responsibility we all have for a safe, healthy environment? What about the responsibility to raise children in the fear and admonition of the Lord? What about the responsibility of "contribution" and not just "consumption"?
B) Our society has gone crazy sexually--and otherwise. We need to practice self-control and temperance again. Our appetites and desires are the force that "makes the world go 'round." Regardless of what the "tube" or anything else tells us, we must be a society that values "self-control" once again.
3) We must be a society that devalues "greed" in all it's forms:
A) I remember hearing someone say that "money is a great servant, and a horrible master." But it seems that "greed" is the new badge of honor. Recently someone told me that their boss only sees one color: GREEN. There is something terribly, horribly wrong with that picture.
B) Less is more. And if you don't believe me, trying "moving" your entire household--packing everything, finding boxes, and paying with it in blood, sweat, and tears...and backaches, etc. Do we really "need" all this stuff? I've decided that I don't.
These are issues that "politics" alone will not solve...and more than likely will never be addressed from the "stump."
But these are foundational issues...and our foundations in this nation seem to be crumbling...now is the time to stop the "rot."
Friends...and then there's SOUTHERN FRIENDS...
A wonderful "southern lady" sent this to me. It is so very, very true!
_____________________________________________
"FRIENDS" VS. "SOUTHERN" FRIENDS
FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Always bring the food. And lots of it.
FRIENDS: Will say "hello".
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will give you a big hug and a kiss. More than one.
FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Call your parents Mom and Dad, and often.
FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Cry with you. And for you.
FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing, and just being together. Then do the dishes before leaving.
FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you. And most of the time know you better than you do yourself.
FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will kick the whole crowds' back-ends that left you. Then walk beside you in the front of the crowd.
FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Walk right in and say, "I'm home!" If you are not home they will wait.
FRIENDS: Are for a while.
SOUTHREN FRIENDS: Are for life. And then some.
FRIENDS: Might ignore this.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will forward this to all their Southern Friends.
_____________________________________________
"FRIENDS" VS. "SOUTHERN" FRIENDS
FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Always bring the food. And lots of it.
FRIENDS: Will say "hello".
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will give you a big hug and a kiss. More than one.
FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Call your parents Mom and Dad, and often.
FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Cry with you. And for you.
FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing, and just being together. Then do the dishes before leaving.
FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you. And most of the time know you better than you do yourself.
FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will kick the whole crowds' back-ends that left you. Then walk beside you in the front of the crowd.
FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Walk right in and say, "I'm home!" If you are not home they will wait.
FRIENDS: Are for a while.
SOUTHREN FRIENDS: Are for life. And then some.
FRIENDS: Might ignore this.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will forward this to all their Southern Friends.
California Burning---Not good!
Like the rest of the nation, I watched in absolute horror last night as Charlie Gibson brought a "Primetime Special Report: California Burning" right after Dancing with the Stars...
Having lived in Northern California for three years, I feel a very deep sorrow and grief for those wonderful people in San Diego County and the surrounding areas who have lost everything they owned to these wild fires.
These tragedies only remind me that we "can't take it with" us--regardless of how valuable it is.
The Scriptures tell us that God creates wealth, and He also brings disaster (Read Isaiah's prophecy), and in this awful time, these people must look to the God who never slumbers nor sleeps.
Now is the time for the people of God to be the "hands and feet of Christ" to more than one million people who have been affected by this disaster.
What can you do? What can I do?
Having lived in Northern California for three years, I feel a very deep sorrow and grief for those wonderful people in San Diego County and the surrounding areas who have lost everything they owned to these wild fires.
These tragedies only remind me that we "can't take it with" us--regardless of how valuable it is.
The Scriptures tell us that God creates wealth, and He also brings disaster (Read Isaiah's prophecy), and in this awful time, these people must look to the God who never slumbers nor sleeps.
Now is the time for the people of God to be the "hands and feet of Christ" to more than one million people who have been affected by this disaster.
What can you do? What can I do?
Where are the PARENTS in this nation?
I am continually shocked/amazed/alarmed when I see what is happening in contemporary American culture!
Now, I'm only 45 years old (will be 46 in March, 2008), but I remember a day back when:
Parents knew where their "underage" children were. (By "underage" I mean anyone less than 21 years old--and even those over 21 if they still lived in the parents' home.)
"Yes Ma'am" and "No Sir" were the only accepted answers to questions that required "two word" answers. (What happened? WHAT HAPPENED?)
Parents didn't have to worry about their ten-year old son being gunned down two blocks from his home by a stray bullet from "gang wars"....this just happened last night on Chicago's South side.....my heart breaks for that family.
Parents knew BETTER than to buy an arsenal of "anything" for their child that could harm someone else--but a mother in Pennsylvania bought an arsenal for her son to potentially harm an entire high school. The only reason the father didn't buy the boy a gun was because "Daddy is a felon"....What on earth?
I'm just wondering where the "adults" are in American society?
Have we abdicated the responsibility of civility to someone other than the "adults"?
Have "personal rights" become more necessary and absolute than "personal responsibility"?
Where are the parents/adults in this nation?
Now, I'm only 45 years old (will be 46 in March, 2008), but I remember a day back when:
Parents knew where their "underage" children were. (By "underage" I mean anyone less than 21 years old--and even those over 21 if they still lived in the parents' home.)
"Yes Ma'am" and "No Sir" were the only accepted answers to questions that required "two word" answers. (What happened? WHAT HAPPENED?)
Parents didn't have to worry about their ten-year old son being gunned down two blocks from his home by a stray bullet from "gang wars"....this just happened last night on Chicago's South side.....my heart breaks for that family.
Parents knew BETTER than to buy an arsenal of "anything" for their child that could harm someone else--but a mother in Pennsylvania bought an arsenal for her son to potentially harm an entire high school. The only reason the father didn't buy the boy a gun was because "Daddy is a felon"....What on earth?
I'm just wondering where the "adults" are in American society?
Have we abdicated the responsibility of civility to someone other than the "adults"?
Have "personal rights" become more necessary and absolute than "personal responsibility"?
Where are the parents/adults in this nation?
The Problem of Pain...
I'm not really sure why this "title" has been swimming around in my head all morning, but it has.
And it seems as though we Christ-followers aren't always ready to "answer" why we have the problem of pain.
And yet, so many of us really do deal with incredible pain:
Pain in our bodies
Pain in our relationships
Pain in our local churches
Pain in our job situations
Pain in our families
Pain, pain, PAIN!
I'm not sure of the exact source, but I do remember hearing someone quoting C S Lewis, "Pain is God's megaphone." Whether the late and great Mr Lewis said this or not, I'm not able to verify right at this moment.
But this much I can verify:
Pain is a part of life. There is no such thing as "Pain-free" living. Of course those who want to live "pain-free" can certainly do that...while they are living in absolute denial also.
What do we do with "the pain?"
Some answers are very simplistic:
"Give it to the Lord, and let Him take care of it."
I agree, and I often want to do just that.
OR
"Just forget about your pain, it will go away."
Yep, bet you've done that a bunch of times, huh?
So how do we Christians handle the "problem of pain?"
And it seems as though we Christ-followers aren't always ready to "answer" why we have the problem of pain.
And yet, so many of us really do deal with incredible pain:
Pain in our bodies
Pain in our relationships
Pain in our local churches
Pain in our job situations
Pain in our families
Pain, pain, PAIN!
I'm not sure of the exact source, but I do remember hearing someone quoting C S Lewis, "Pain is God's megaphone." Whether the late and great Mr Lewis said this or not, I'm not able to verify right at this moment.
But this much I can verify:
Pain is a part of life. There is no such thing as "Pain-free" living. Of course those who want to live "pain-free" can certainly do that...while they are living in absolute denial also.
What do we do with "the pain?"
Some answers are very simplistic:
"Give it to the Lord, and let Him take care of it."
I agree, and I often want to do just that.
OR
"Just forget about your pain, it will go away."
Yep, bet you've done that a bunch of times, huh?
So how do we Christians handle the "problem of pain?"
Congratulations to Aaron and Kristie
I am flying to "Hot"lanta tonite...(that's Atlanta for all the non-Southerners among us) to participate in the festivities of my great friend Aaron Kuglin. He and his wife-to-be, Kristy, will be exchanging their wedding vows on Saturday. I am so excited for them.
I first met Aaron back in 2001, during a morning service at Founder's Week--a bible conference sponsored and hosted by the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago.
He and I went to lunch (at Portillo's if my memory serves me correctly), and we have been pals ever since. I assisted his mom and dad with the "details" of his junior recital, and again for his senior recital in 2004.
He has been closer than a brother to me, and for many reasons to numerous to detail here.
I am so thrilled for him. I am so thrilled that he wants me to be at his wedding.
It is my honor and pleasure.
Kristie is getting a "saint" of a man. And she's marrying one of my dearest friends.
I first met Aaron back in 2001, during a morning service at Founder's Week--a bible conference sponsored and hosted by the Moody Bible Institute here in Chicago.
He and I went to lunch (at Portillo's if my memory serves me correctly), and we have been pals ever since. I assisted his mom and dad with the "details" of his junior recital, and again for his senior recital in 2004.
He has been closer than a brother to me, and for many reasons to numerous to detail here.
I am so thrilled for him. I am so thrilled that he wants me to be at his wedding.
It is my honor and pleasure.
Kristie is getting a "saint" of a man. And she's marrying one of my dearest friends.
What are your favorite Scripture verses?
When someone asks you to quote your favorite Scripture verses, what immediately comes to mind?
Here are two of mine:
"Greater love has no man than this, that he would lay down his life for a friend" (John 15:13)
"The Lord is the shade at your right hand. The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night." (Psalm 121:3).
So what are your favorites--without looking them up....
Go ahead, feel free to share them here
Here are two of mine:
"Greater love has no man than this, that he would lay down his life for a friend" (John 15:13)
"The Lord is the shade at your right hand. The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night." (Psalm 121:3).
So what are your favorites--without looking them up....
Go ahead, feel free to share them here
To the Chicago Tribune
Last Saturday's Chicago Tribune published a letter in the "Voice of the People" section entitled "The Benefits to Becoming Bilingual"--a direct reference to why we should all learn Spanish.
While I found the letter very well-written, I also found it infuriating. I sent this response to the editor of the Chicago Tribune today:
**********************************************
Regarding Missy Berry's well-written opinion in Saturday's "Voice of the People", I must respectfully and firmly disagree with just about every premise of her letter.
I do not feel threatened by anyone who speaks, looks, acts differently than myself....at least not in my country--the United States of America. I am very thankful for the great diversity of people that are found in this place--the freest nation in the history of humanity. But this is AMERICA...not Mexico, or Poland, or Zimbabwe, just to name a few foreign countries.
I am particularly not threatened by those Spanish-speakers who come here. I am more frustrated than threatened. And what is particularly frustrating to me, and to millions of my fellow citizens across this land is the unwillingness of many of the "Hispanics" "Latinos"--whatever they want to call themselves--to adapt this new country. I keep hearing some of the Hispanics say, "But in my country..."
If this isn't their country, what on earth are they doing here? No one goes somewhere for a 20-year visit.
Americans have every right to celebrate Independence Day because that is OUR national holiday. The Liberation of Poland, Mexico, or any other nation (outside of the USA) is not our national holiday, nor should it be.
As a military veteran, I am deeply disturbed by the fact that we Americans have become so "culturally diverse" and "openminded" that we forget we are Americans. I have no hyphenated patriotism...I am an American. It doesn't matter what the lineage is...what matters is that I am an American.
The benefits of people learning to speak the English language, should they decide to live here permanently (and having lived here for more than several months, I do believe that is their intentions) are manifold: Better chances for productive employment. Better chances for educational opportunities, and far better chances to climb the economic ladder.
The benefits of people learning to speak English here in the United States are also longlasting upon all who pay taxes to the local, state, and federal governments. Translating all those forms is expensive--and someone, somewhere has to pay the "fiddler" after the dancing is over. I pay my share. But I would have to pay less if we insisted that people adapt and assimilate into this country and to learn the prevailing language of commerce and society.
Wave the Flag of the United States, learn to speak English, and get on the path to becoming an American. No need to hyphenate your plans. Just do it.
While I found the letter very well-written, I also found it infuriating. I sent this response to the editor of the Chicago Tribune today:
**********************************************
Regarding Missy Berry's well-written opinion in Saturday's "Voice of the People", I must respectfully and firmly disagree with just about every premise of her letter.
I do not feel threatened by anyone who speaks, looks, acts differently than myself....at least not in my country--the United States of America. I am very thankful for the great diversity of people that are found in this place--the freest nation in the history of humanity. But this is AMERICA...not Mexico, or Poland, or Zimbabwe, just to name a few foreign countries.
I am particularly not threatened by those Spanish-speakers who come here. I am more frustrated than threatened. And what is particularly frustrating to me, and to millions of my fellow citizens across this land is the unwillingness of many of the "Hispanics" "Latinos"--whatever they want to call themselves--to adapt this new country. I keep hearing some of the Hispanics say, "But in my country..."
If this isn't their country, what on earth are they doing here? No one goes somewhere for a 20-year visit.
Americans have every right to celebrate Independence Day because that is OUR national holiday. The Liberation of Poland, Mexico, or any other nation (outside of the USA) is not our national holiday, nor should it be.
As a military veteran, I am deeply disturbed by the fact that we Americans have become so "culturally diverse" and "openminded" that we forget we are Americans. I have no hyphenated patriotism...I am an American. It doesn't matter what the lineage is...what matters is that I am an American.
The benefits of people learning to speak the English language, should they decide to live here permanently (and having lived here for more than several months, I do believe that is their intentions) are manifold: Better chances for productive employment. Better chances for educational opportunities, and far better chances to climb the economic ladder.
The benefits of people learning to speak English here in the United States are also longlasting upon all who pay taxes to the local, state, and federal governments. Translating all those forms is expensive--and someone, somewhere has to pay the "fiddler" after the dancing is over. I pay my share. But I would have to pay less if we insisted that people adapt and assimilate into this country and to learn the prevailing language of commerce and society.
Wave the Flag of the United States, learn to speak English, and get on the path to becoming an American. No need to hyphenate your plans. Just do it.
So what about your level of "commitment"?
I recently read a post on a forum where the pastor was all upset and out of sorts because his congregational members could only commit small amounts of time to local church activities each week.
I've been actively involved in the ministry of every local church where I've been a regular parishioner since I was a small child. But there are times when I have to say "no."
I don't like saying "no"--but I do have to work a full-time job. I also have to run my own household, and when something needs to get done "in my life" it's my turn.
So...what do you think? Are the expectations of "leaders" in church just waaaay too much, or are we "parishioners" just not involved enough?
I've been actively involved in the ministry of every local church where I've been a regular parishioner since I was a small child. But there are times when I have to say "no."
I don't like saying "no"--but I do have to work a full-time job. I also have to run my own household, and when something needs to get done "in my life" it's my turn.
So...what do you think? Are the expectations of "leaders" in church just waaaay too much, or are we "parishioners" just not involved enough?
When the "front runners" aren't in front...What's up with that?
I watched the "Republican Debate" on PBS last night, hosted by Tavis Smiley. It was good, it was engaging, and it was informative.
The only problem: The four Republican "front-runners" didn't come to the show, for whatever reasons.
I can't believe, not for one New York second, that Senator John McCain, Former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani, Former Governor Mitt Romney, and Former Senator Fred Thompson all had "scheduling conflicts" and couldn't appear at this historically black college (Morgan State) in the Baltimore area for a 90-minute debate.
This debate was one of the better ones that I've watched, save for the pontificating of perennial candidate Alan Keyes, Former Ambassador to the United Nations.
Why would McCain, Giuliani, Romney, and Thompson all "diss" the majority Black audience? This was their chance to show an otherwise "skeptical" group why they should be President.
You can't "show" if you don't "go."
Each of these candidates, in my opinion, have forfeited the opportunity to win the nomination of the GOP, and no American voter should even consider casting a vote for them.
The only problem: The four Republican "front-runners" didn't come to the show, for whatever reasons.
I can't believe, not for one New York second, that Senator John McCain, Former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani, Former Governor Mitt Romney, and Former Senator Fred Thompson all had "scheduling conflicts" and couldn't appear at this historically black college (Morgan State) in the Baltimore area for a 90-minute debate.
This debate was one of the better ones that I've watched, save for the pontificating of perennial candidate Alan Keyes, Former Ambassador to the United Nations.
Why would McCain, Giuliani, Romney, and Thompson all "diss" the majority Black audience? This was their chance to show an otherwise "skeptical" group why they should be President.
You can't "show" if you don't "go."
Each of these candidates, in my opinion, have forfeited the opportunity to win the nomination of the GOP, and no American voter should even consider casting a vote for them.
And on a less "spiritual note"...
DANCING WITH THE STARS begins tonite...ABC, 7 p.m. Central time.
It should be "quite the line-up" this time. Not sure whom I will pull for. My heart is still broken because "Laila Ali" lost the last season....
So, you all watch this time, okay?
It should be "quite the line-up" this time. Not sure whom I will pull for. My heart is still broken because "Laila Ali" lost the last season....
So, you all watch this time, okay?
Absolutely Amazing!
www.nationalchristianchoir.org
The world-renown National Christian Choir (from the nation's capitol) was in concert here in Chicago this past weekend! All I can say is "WOW..."
I first remember hearing the "choir" when I was stationed in South Korea, and would hear some wonderful christian music occasionally on the Armed Forces Network. I remember hearing them sing one of the great hymns of our faith, "Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us..." Even though that was more than 17 years ago, I remember it like it was yesterday.
And then, several years later, I was stationed with the United States Air Force in west Texas, and was scheduled for major surgery. I happened to be listening to the Christian station there in Lubbock very early one morning, and this wonderful choir once again ministered the love and grace of Christ to me during my time of need.
How thrilled I was to learn (a few months ago, actually) that Senior Pastor Erwin Lutzer of The Moody Church (www.moodychurch.org) had invited the National Christian Choir to come be with us here in Chicago for the weekend.
In conjunction with WMBI-FM, the flagship station of the Moody Broadcasting Network, the Choir did a marvelous concert of their music on Saturday evening to a full sanctuary at The Moody Church. This was the world premier of the choir's new recording, "People Need The Lord."
What was even more special was the Choir led us in worshipping our great God yesterday in the morning worship gathering. Once again, this ensemble of some 138 voices helped us court the presence of Christ as we gathered in His name.
One very special thing also for me, the pianist Mrs Kathy Bowman--who has been their only pianist for the last 23 years--once taught at my alma mater, Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu). It was such a joy to meet her and to reminisce about all the wonderful people that we both have known over the years.
Visit all of the websites here, and particularly the one for the National Christian Choir! You will be glad you did.
The world-renown National Christian Choir (from the nation's capitol) was in concert here in Chicago this past weekend! All I can say is "WOW..."
I first remember hearing the "choir" when I was stationed in South Korea, and would hear some wonderful christian music occasionally on the Armed Forces Network. I remember hearing them sing one of the great hymns of our faith, "Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us..." Even though that was more than 17 years ago, I remember it like it was yesterday.
And then, several years later, I was stationed with the United States Air Force in west Texas, and was scheduled for major surgery. I happened to be listening to the Christian station there in Lubbock very early one morning, and this wonderful choir once again ministered the love and grace of Christ to me during my time of need.
How thrilled I was to learn (a few months ago, actually) that Senior Pastor Erwin Lutzer of The Moody Church (www.moodychurch.org) had invited the National Christian Choir to come be with us here in Chicago for the weekend.
In conjunction with WMBI-FM, the flagship station of the Moody Broadcasting Network, the Choir did a marvelous concert of their music on Saturday evening to a full sanctuary at The Moody Church. This was the world premier of the choir's new recording, "People Need The Lord."
What was even more special was the Choir led us in worshipping our great God yesterday in the morning worship gathering. Once again, this ensemble of some 138 voices helped us court the presence of Christ as we gathered in His name.
One very special thing also for me, the pianist Mrs Kathy Bowman--who has been their only pianist for the last 23 years--once taught at my alma mater, Lee University (www.leeuniversity.edu). It was such a joy to meet her and to reminisce about all the wonderful people that we both have known over the years.
Visit all of the websites here, and particularly the one for the National Christian Choir! You will be glad you did.
Healthcare...why it matters...
For all the many "issues" facing this country, I do believe the most important "internal" issue is healthcare, and how it affects every person living here in the United States.
I was watching a special on PBS last night that featured five of the Democratic hopefuls for the nomination. The main topic of discussion was Healthcare...and what it means to America.
Senators Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Hillary Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, and Governor Bill Richardson were the guest panelists in this 90-minute forum hosted by PBS' Judy Woodruff.
I'm glad that "healthcare" is once again taking a prominent place in the "national conversation."
While I was going to seminary, I worked in a local hospital on two different occasions. I witnessed, firsthand, just what healthcare and access to such care means in our society.
The fact that we have almost 50 million people in this country--the richest on earth and in the history of humaity--is almost unthinkable...and definitely unconscionable.
Do any of the aforementioned politicians have all the answers? Of course not.
Is insuring 50 million people in this country an "easy" accomplishment? Of course not.
But we need to do something...and I'm glad that the Democrats have at least started talking about it.
I'll write more later.
I was watching a special on PBS last night that featured five of the Democratic hopefuls for the nomination. The main topic of discussion was Healthcare...and what it means to America.
Senators Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Hillary Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, and Governor Bill Richardson were the guest panelists in this 90-minute forum hosted by PBS' Judy Woodruff.
I'm glad that "healthcare" is once again taking a prominent place in the "national conversation."
While I was going to seminary, I worked in a local hospital on two different occasions. I witnessed, firsthand, just what healthcare and access to such care means in our society.
The fact that we have almost 50 million people in this country--the richest on earth and in the history of humaity--is almost unthinkable...and definitely unconscionable.
Do any of the aforementioned politicians have all the answers? Of course not.
Is insuring 50 million people in this country an "easy" accomplishment? Of course not.
But we need to do something...and I'm glad that the Democrats have at least started talking about it.
I'll write more later.
The Parable of the Bird Feeder...We must pay attention.
Manifold thanks to Pastor Gary Piepkorn (retired Air Force Chaplain, and personal friend for many years) for sending this to me. It makes LOTS of sense:
_______________________________________
A man bought a bird feeder. He hung it on his back porch and filled it with seed. Within a week he had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible food.
But then the birds started building nests in the boards of his
patio, above the table, and next to the barbecue.
Then came the poop. It was everywhere: on the patio tile,
the chairs, the table... everywhere.
Then some of the birds turned mean: They would dive bomb the
man and try to peck him even though he had fed them out of his own pocket.
And others birds were boisterous and loud: They sat on the
feeder and squawked and screamed at all hours of the day and night and demanded that he fill it when it got low on food. After a while, the man couldn't even sit on his own back porch anymore.
Well, the man took down the bird feeder and in three days the
birds were gone.
He cleaned up their mess and took down the many nests they had
built all over the patio. Soon, the back yard was like it used to be...quiet, serene and no one demanding their rights to a free meal.
Now let's see . . . . .
Our government gives out free food, subsidized housing, free
medical care, free education and allows anyone born here to be an
automatic citizen.
Then the illegals came by the tens of thousands. Suddenly. . .
Our taxes went up to pay for free services, small apartments are
housing 5 families:
You have to wait 6 hours to be seen by an emergency room
doctor:
Your child's 2nd grade class is behind other schools because over half the class doesn't speak English.
Corn Flakes now come in a bilingual box; I have to press "one"
to hear my bank talk to me in English, and people waving flags other than "Old Glory" are squawking and screaming in the streets, demanding more rights and free liberties.
Maybe it's time for our government to take down the bird
feeder.
_____________________________________
It absolutely is time to take down the "bird feeder." It was time many, many years ago...and we are fools if we continue to "feed the birds" the way we are currently doing.
_______________________________________
A man bought a bird feeder. He hung it on his back porch and filled it with seed. Within a week he had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible food.
But then the birds started building nests in the boards of his
patio, above the table, and next to the barbecue.
Then came the poop. It was everywhere: on the patio tile,
the chairs, the table... everywhere.
Then some of the birds turned mean: They would dive bomb the
man and try to peck him even though he had fed them out of his own pocket.
And others birds were boisterous and loud: They sat on the
feeder and squawked and screamed at all hours of the day and night and demanded that he fill it when it got low on food. After a while, the man couldn't even sit on his own back porch anymore.
Well, the man took down the bird feeder and in three days the
birds were gone.
He cleaned up their mess and took down the many nests they had
built all over the patio. Soon, the back yard was like it used to be...quiet, serene and no one demanding their rights to a free meal.
Now let's see . . . . .
Our government gives out free food, subsidized housing, free
medical care, free education and allows anyone born here to be an
automatic citizen.
Then the illegals came by the tens of thousands. Suddenly. . .
Our taxes went up to pay for free services, small apartments are
housing 5 families:
You have to wait 6 hours to be seen by an emergency room
doctor:
Your child's 2nd grade class is behind other schools because over half the class doesn't speak English.
Corn Flakes now come in a bilingual box; I have to press "one"
to hear my bank talk to me in English, and people waving flags other than "Old Glory" are squawking and screaming in the streets, demanding more rights and free liberties.
Maybe it's time for our government to take down the bird
feeder.
_____________________________________
It absolutely is time to take down the "bird feeder." It was time many, many years ago...and we are fools if we continue to "feed the birds" the way we are currently doing.
Now that General Petraeus has spoken...
I listened to as much of General David Petraeus' testimony as I possibly could earlier this week. He is a deeply committed public servant and, from all accounts, a terrific military leader.
I'm troubled that so many in Washington DC--including the President and Vice President of the United States--have really not heard what the General seems to be saying.
We are making "some" progress in Iraq. Not as much as we would hoped to have made...and not as little as the "naysayers" claim either.
While I was all for the Bush Administration's decision to "go to war" I was absolutely horrified that so little planning went into this "effort."
Retired General Eric Shinsecki warned both the Congress and the White House of what would be needed to bring about the desired results in this conflict. Less than one month later General Shinsecki was relieved of his duties as the Chief of Staff, United States Army.
Now retired, Former Secretary of State, (Retired General, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff) Colin Powell also candidly and clearly advised the Bush Administration of the obstacles and hurdles that would need to be crossed and cleared. But alas, Rumsfeld and Cheney--neither of them war heroes in the stretch of anyone's imagination--thought they knew better than the "proven heroes." Secretary Powell, however, had been the brilliant architect of the First Gulf War in 1991. But he too, was pushed aside and silenced by this brain-dead Administration.
Now, almost 4000 American service personnel have given their lives. And the talking heads in Washington still aren't listening too closely.
Why?
I'm troubled that so many in Washington DC--including the President and Vice President of the United States--have really not heard what the General seems to be saying.
We are making "some" progress in Iraq. Not as much as we would hoped to have made...and not as little as the "naysayers" claim either.
While I was all for the Bush Administration's decision to "go to war" I was absolutely horrified that so little planning went into this "effort."
Retired General Eric Shinsecki warned both the Congress and the White House of what would be needed to bring about the desired results in this conflict. Less than one month later General Shinsecki was relieved of his duties as the Chief of Staff, United States Army.
Now retired, Former Secretary of State, (Retired General, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff) Colin Powell also candidly and clearly advised the Bush Administration of the obstacles and hurdles that would need to be crossed and cleared. But alas, Rumsfeld and Cheney--neither of them war heroes in the stretch of anyone's imagination--thought they knew better than the "proven heroes." Secretary Powell, however, had been the brilliant architect of the First Gulf War in 1991. But he too, was pushed aside and silenced by this brain-dead Administration.
Now, almost 4000 American service personnel have given their lives. And the talking heads in Washington still aren't listening too closely.
Why?
The "OPRAH" factor for Senator Obama...
The reigning Queen of Talk Shows...Oprah Winfrey...has unabashedly thrown her entire reputation and support behind the political campaign of the junior senator from Illinois, Barack Obama.
Miss Winfrey, as a law-abiding American, has every right to support whomever she wants to support for whatever political office someone wants to pursue. This time, OPRAH has decided that Barack Obama--a good man, with a beautiful wife and lovely daughters--should be president of the United States, come January 2009.
I personally disagree with Oprah on this one.
She has always seem to be one of the "voices of reason" concerning most issues in contemporary society. On many occasions, I have found myself agreeing with her. I have deeply appreciated her philanthropic efforts around the world. I have admired the fact that she is a hard-working, tremendously gifted, and gracious woman.
I even admire the fact that she has decided to get involved in the political process.
What bugs me though is the fact that she has now alienated millions of her viewers who have decided, deep in their heart of hearts, that Senator Obama is not ready for the Oval Office.
At least not yet.
Miss Winfrey, as a law-abiding American, has every right to support whomever she wants to support for whatever political office someone wants to pursue. This time, OPRAH has decided that Barack Obama--a good man, with a beautiful wife and lovely daughters--should be president of the United States, come January 2009.
I personally disagree with Oprah on this one.
She has always seem to be one of the "voices of reason" concerning most issues in contemporary society. On many occasions, I have found myself agreeing with her. I have deeply appreciated her philanthropic efforts around the world. I have admired the fact that she is a hard-working, tremendously gifted, and gracious woman.
I even admire the fact that she has decided to get involved in the political process.
What bugs me though is the fact that she has now alienated millions of her viewers who have decided, deep in their heart of hearts, that Senator Obama is not ready for the Oval Office.
At least not yet.
I Then Shall Live...
I've often stated that GLORIA GAITHER is probably my favorite living poet/songwriter. In response to a book written by the late Dr Francis Schaeffer in the 1980s, she penned this wonderful poem, set to the music of Jean Sebelius's FINLANDIA:
___________________________________________________
I then shall live as one who's been forgiven;
I'll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I'll forgive another;
The law of love I gladly will obey.
I then shall live as one who's learned compassion;
Ive been so loved that I'll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see anothers point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I'll be there to care and follow through.
Your kingdom come around and through and in me,
Your powr and glory, let them shine thru me.
Your Hallowed Name O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
__________________________________________
What a powerful song/prayer/statement of commitment.
___________________________________________________
I then shall live as one who's been forgiven;
I'll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I'll forgive another;
The law of love I gladly will obey.
I then shall live as one who's learned compassion;
Ive been so loved that I'll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see anothers point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I'll be there to care and follow through.
Your kingdom come around and through and in me,
Your powr and glory, let them shine thru me.
Your Hallowed Name O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
__________________________________________
What a powerful song/prayer/statement of commitment.
I sang this song 23 years ago...
And I still love it:
_____________________________
Down from His glory
Everliving story,
My God and Saviour came
And Jesus was His name.
Born in a manger,
To this earth a stranger
A man of sorrows, tears, and agony.
Oh how I love Him!
How I adore Him!
My breath, my sunshine
My all in all!
The great Creator
Became my Saviour!
And all God's fulness
Dwells in Him!
__________________________
And that is no less true today. I love this God-Man, Jesus Christ! I adore this God-Man, Jesus Christ! In Him dwells all the fulness of God.
That's something to consider.
_____________________________
Down from His glory
Everliving story,
My God and Saviour came
And Jesus was His name.
Born in a manger,
To this earth a stranger
A man of sorrows, tears, and agony.
Oh how I love Him!
How I adore Him!
My breath, my sunshine
My all in all!
The great Creator
Became my Saviour!
And all God's fulness
Dwells in Him!
__________________________
And that is no less true today. I love this God-Man, Jesus Christ! I adore this God-Man, Jesus Christ! In Him dwells all the fulness of God.
That's something to consider.
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