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.
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.
What should I have done?
On August 27, 2009, I will celebrate my NINTH anniversary of being a "Chicagoan." It has been quite the ride...to say the least. It has been an education--that I would have not acquired any other way....
It is just a "normal day's routine" to pass five, ten, twenty people who are asking for money, making claims of being homeless or hungry or both. I usually just walk on by.....and have done so for many years....with a few nonmemorable exceptions.
However, last Sunday evening, I was in Millenium Park for the FREE concert by the United States Coast Guard. I had stopped by the local SUBWAY sandwich shop, and taken advantage of the $5.00 footlongs (love those things!) so I could have something to eat before the concert.
I only ate half of my sandwich, putting the remaining half in the backpack...fully intending to take it home, and eat it for breakfast Monday morning.
As I was leaving the concert, I saw a man sitting on the sidewalk, holding a sign saying he was hungry. This time, completely out of character for me, I stopped, and gave him the half sandwich. I told him that it was good, that it was somewhat fresh, and that if he were really hungry that he should eat it.
I'm wondering what he did with the other half of that sandwich. I'm wondering if he really ate it, or just throw it away as soon as I got out of eye sight.
I've bought people food before, and watched them throw it in the garbage can as soon as I got out of eye-sight from them. Most of them never knew I was watching them...until I confronted them.
I know what Jesus said about feeding the poor, and clothing the naked, and tending to prisoners....but what about the "abuses"? That part still bothers me...
It is just a "normal day's routine" to pass five, ten, twenty people who are asking for money, making claims of being homeless or hungry or both. I usually just walk on by.....and have done so for many years....with a few nonmemorable exceptions.
However, last Sunday evening, I was in Millenium Park for the FREE concert by the United States Coast Guard. I had stopped by the local SUBWAY sandwich shop, and taken advantage of the $5.00 footlongs (love those things!) so I could have something to eat before the concert.
I only ate half of my sandwich, putting the remaining half in the backpack...fully intending to take it home, and eat it for breakfast Monday morning.
As I was leaving the concert, I saw a man sitting on the sidewalk, holding a sign saying he was hungry. This time, completely out of character for me, I stopped, and gave him the half sandwich. I told him that it was good, that it was somewhat fresh, and that if he were really hungry that he should eat it.
I'm wondering what he did with the other half of that sandwich. I'm wondering if he really ate it, or just throw it away as soon as I got out of eye sight.
I've bought people food before, and watched them throw it in the garbage can as soon as I got out of eye-sight from them. Most of them never knew I was watching them...until I confronted them.
I know what Jesus said about feeding the poor, and clothing the naked, and tending to prisoners....but what about the "abuses"? That part still bothers me...
Confession time: All I ever wanted to do
I have two "dreams" in my life...and sometimes, I am near tears wondering if these things will ever come to pass..again.
First, I love to sing. Nothing stirs my soul, and causes me to praise God like good singing. I've been privileged to sing all over the world...and I thank both the Lord and the United States Air Force (in that exact order) for giving me that privilege. I am fully convinced the Lord can use the words and music to good singing to powerfully reach someone's heart...because He has done that just for me. As one great gospel song from my childhood says, 'I was there when it happened and I guess I ought to know.' My absolute favorite devotional/worship tool is my worn-out Nazarene hymnal that someone gave me about 22 years ago when I was worshipping at Denver First Church. That hymnal goes just about everywhere with me.
Second, I love to encourage people through preaching and teaching. I've not done nearly enough of that for a very, very long time. Somehow, I got sidetracked...or more accurately, "off track" with these things, and have never 'found my way' back to using these desires and gifts. I love to see the transformation that God works in someone's thinking and life through the power of His Spirit and His Word.
If I had the opportunity to go into full-time "Christian ministry" right now, I'd go...without a second thought. But, alas, now I want to make sure the Lord Himself has opened the door...and sometimes while we wait for the "assurance" of open doors, we miss the door altogether.
I'll confess more later....I promise.
First, I love to sing. Nothing stirs my soul, and causes me to praise God like good singing. I've been privileged to sing all over the world...and I thank both the Lord and the United States Air Force (in that exact order) for giving me that privilege. I am fully convinced the Lord can use the words and music to good singing to powerfully reach someone's heart...because He has done that just for me. As one great gospel song from my childhood says, 'I was there when it happened and I guess I ought to know.' My absolute favorite devotional/worship tool is my worn-out Nazarene hymnal that someone gave me about 22 years ago when I was worshipping at Denver First Church. That hymnal goes just about everywhere with me.
Second, I love to encourage people through preaching and teaching. I've not done nearly enough of that for a very, very long time. Somehow, I got sidetracked...or more accurately, "off track" with these things, and have never 'found my way' back to using these desires and gifts. I love to see the transformation that God works in someone's thinking and life through the power of His Spirit and His Word.
If I had the opportunity to go into full-time "Christian ministry" right now, I'd go...without a second thought. But, alas, now I want to make sure the Lord Himself has opened the door...and sometimes while we wait for the "assurance" of open doors, we miss the door altogether.
I'll confess more later....I promise.
One more small detail....
and I will be cleared to give a kidney to my precious friend, Dr Bill George. I found out today that my 24 Hour Urine/Creatinine Clearance test was perfectly normal...Praise the Lord....I have, personally, botched the last three of those myself---I simply overhydrated. This time I followed the "letter of the law" to the nth degree. It came out as it should.
I take my last round of shots tomorrow morning, early...very early. My doctor will send a professional statement/opinion to the Surgical Team at University of Alabama Renal Transplant Center before 3 p.m. and we should have a final decision sometime on Thursday morning.
I am getting more excited about this now. I am convinced that I heard from God back in early April...even though this entire process has been frustrating to no end. If you want hear the testimony of how God spoke to me, follow this link:
http://www.moodyradio.org/brd_programarchive.aspx?id=31078
Scroll down to June 10th, and listen to my conversation with Chris Fabry for the first 10-12 minutes of the broadcast. (That very afternoon I flew to Birmingham, and underwent RIGOROUS medical procedures the next day to determine my suitability to be a kidney donor).
Now, we are seeing the "all clear sign"---almost....please continue praying over this situation. I want to make sure that I'm doing exactly what I need to be doing to be obedient.
This has been a real learning experience...and a great education for me. It has been a learning experience in that I've had to rely on the wisdom that comes only from God....and to follow His leading....however imperfect my following has been.
I am getting excited again.
I take my last round of shots tomorrow morning, early...very early. My doctor will send a professional statement/opinion to the Surgical Team at University of Alabama Renal Transplant Center before 3 p.m. and we should have a final decision sometime on Thursday morning.
I am getting more excited about this now. I am convinced that I heard from God back in early April...even though this entire process has been frustrating to no end. If you want hear the testimony of how God spoke to me, follow this link:
http://www.moodyradio.org/brd_programarchive.aspx?id=31078
Scroll down to June 10th, and listen to my conversation with Chris Fabry for the first 10-12 minutes of the broadcast. (That very afternoon I flew to Birmingham, and underwent RIGOROUS medical procedures the next day to determine my suitability to be a kidney donor).
Now, we are seeing the "all clear sign"---almost....please continue praying over this situation. I want to make sure that I'm doing exactly what I need to be doing to be obedient.
This has been a real learning experience...and a great education for me. It has been a learning experience in that I've had to rely on the wisdom that comes only from God....and to follow His leading....however imperfect my following has been.
I am getting excited again.
Whatever happened to:
1) Professional courtesy? When you call an office, or a place of business, you should ALWAYS identify yourself. NO ONE should ever have to ask your name before you start into your "35 questions". If you aren't willing to "identify" yourself...then don't use the telephone. It's that simple.
2) Being Punctual? Your appointment is for 10 a.m. You show up at 10:15, with no real reason for doing so. You have a cell phone, but you didn't bother calling to inform the person WAITING FOR YOU that they must wait a little while longer. The "10:20" appointment has just shown up, and so did you. Should the "10:20" appointment wait because you were late? Not in my office. You were late....I'll get to you as soon as I can.
3) Using decent English? "Naw" and "Yeah" are not acceptable in my office. "No" and "Yes" are perfectly acceptable and expected. I keep reminding students, who come in my office, that we are professionals, and that we will comport ourselves as professionals. "Gnaw" is what a rat does...and I don't keep cheese in my work space.
4) Turning your iPod down? If I wanted to hear your music, I'd let you know. There are reasons these gadgets have headphones, and you plug them in YOUR ears. Not mine. I don't want to hear your music....so turn it down. And do it now!
5) Keeping your eyes and attention on the road? I was absolutely horrified to see some young female riding her bicycle down one of Chicago's busiest streets, with no helmet, had an iPod plugged in her skull, and then talking on a telephone as well...ON A BICYCLE, no less.
Where were the Chicago Police when this was happening? This person should have been arrested...yes, ARRESTED, for reckless endangerment.
more later.
2) Being Punctual? Your appointment is for 10 a.m. You show up at 10:15, with no real reason for doing so. You have a cell phone, but you didn't bother calling to inform the person WAITING FOR YOU that they must wait a little while longer. The "10:20" appointment has just shown up, and so did you. Should the "10:20" appointment wait because you were late? Not in my office. You were late....I'll get to you as soon as I can.
3) Using decent English? "Naw" and "Yeah" are not acceptable in my office. "No" and "Yes" are perfectly acceptable and expected. I keep reminding students, who come in my office, that we are professionals, and that we will comport ourselves as professionals. "Gnaw" is what a rat does...and I don't keep cheese in my work space.
4) Turning your iPod down? If I wanted to hear your music, I'd let you know. There are reasons these gadgets have headphones, and you plug them in YOUR ears. Not mine. I don't want to hear your music....so turn it down. And do it now!
5) Keeping your eyes and attention on the road? I was absolutely horrified to see some young female riding her bicycle down one of Chicago's busiest streets, with no helmet, had an iPod plugged in her skull, and then talking on a telephone as well...ON A BICYCLE, no less.
Where were the Chicago Police when this was happening? This person should have been arrested...yes, ARRESTED, for reckless endangerment.
more later.
Why we MUST have healthcare reform!
My friend Joe Misek (www.joemisek.blogspot.com) tells me that I am very passionate about some things.
Joe is right. Health care reform is one of them. While I may not agree with a lot that is in the current plan making its way through Congress, we have ignored this problem long enough.
Of course, there are so many angles to real, effective Health Care Reform. Everyone must be involved:
1) First and foremost, the American populace. How does the "public" get involved?
We start with preventative measures: Leading healthier lifestyles, watching our over-consumption of just about everything, exercising, etc. NO amount of medical care in the world (free or otherwise--and someone will be paying for it ALWAYS) will take the place of good health habits.
2) The Medical Access Act of 1981 has turned on us. When I was a teenager, one dared not go to the Emergency Room unless said person had adequate health insurance, or adequate cash. While it wasn't always fair (and I almost died of an illness when I was 15 years old), hospitals and doctors' offices were not overwhelemed with "non-payers." Thanks to President Reagan--who meant well--every Emergency Room in the country must now treat whomever presents themselves to an emergency "facility." With or without insurance. With or without the means to pay for services rendered.
Unfortunately, far too many people living here in these United States have seriously ABUSED this well-intentioned law. Now, instead of going to their regular family physician, many just show up at the ER for whatever happens to be ailing them at the time. With or without ability/means to pay for services rendered. The Emergency Room is the least effective and most expensive form of medical care, on a long-term basis. The Emergency Room is meant for EMERGENCIES only. Aunt Sally's runny nose is NOT an emergency. Neither is the headache that you've had for the last 4 days....in most instances.
3) Physicians must be encouraged AND allowed to be the "caregivers" and "healers" for whence they have trained for many years. NOT just a paper-pusher, or a servant to the insurance bureaucracies. Too many insurance companies are calling the medical shots...and they are NOT QUALIFIED TO DO SO.
more on this later.
Joe is right. Health care reform is one of them. While I may not agree with a lot that is in the current plan making its way through Congress, we have ignored this problem long enough.
Of course, there are so many angles to real, effective Health Care Reform. Everyone must be involved:
1) First and foremost, the American populace. How does the "public" get involved?
We start with preventative measures: Leading healthier lifestyles, watching our over-consumption of just about everything, exercising, etc. NO amount of medical care in the world (free or otherwise--and someone will be paying for it ALWAYS) will take the place of good health habits.
2) The Medical Access Act of 1981 has turned on us. When I was a teenager, one dared not go to the Emergency Room unless said person had adequate health insurance, or adequate cash. While it wasn't always fair (and I almost died of an illness when I was 15 years old), hospitals and doctors' offices were not overwhelemed with "non-payers." Thanks to President Reagan--who meant well--every Emergency Room in the country must now treat whomever presents themselves to an emergency "facility." With or without insurance. With or without the means to pay for services rendered.
Unfortunately, far too many people living here in these United States have seriously ABUSED this well-intentioned law. Now, instead of going to their regular family physician, many just show up at the ER for whatever happens to be ailing them at the time. With or without ability/means to pay for services rendered. The Emergency Room is the least effective and most expensive form of medical care, on a long-term basis. The Emergency Room is meant for EMERGENCIES only. Aunt Sally's runny nose is NOT an emergency. Neither is the headache that you've had for the last 4 days....in most instances.
3) Physicians must be encouraged AND allowed to be the "caregivers" and "healers" for whence they have trained for many years. NOT just a paper-pusher, or a servant to the insurance bureaucracies. Too many insurance companies are calling the medical shots...and they are NOT QUALIFIED TO DO SO.
The Kidney Transplant Donor Update...
I'm hoping that I can see the "end" or the "clearance" from here...I'm taking shots for an infection that I had a LONG TIME ago, but that still shows up as "reactive" when a blood strain is done.
I'm very grateful for the wonderful medical staff at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Renal Transplant Center. These men and women are being SUPER CAUTIOUS, and I'm thankful for this---as tedious and wearing as it is. If I were the one "receiving" the kidney, I would certainly want this same type of caution.
As of right now, it looks like the transplant will be in Mid-late August at the very earliest. God is in control of all these things, and I'm going to trust it into His loving, careful hands. (At this point, I really don't have a choice anyway....not that I ever did).
But please keep praying over this situation. I am still excited...I just need to stay that way. I need to keep trusting that the Lord will bring it all to pass...
I'm very grateful for the wonderful medical staff at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Renal Transplant Center. These men and women are being SUPER CAUTIOUS, and I'm thankful for this---as tedious and wearing as it is. If I were the one "receiving" the kidney, I would certainly want this same type of caution.
As of right now, it looks like the transplant will be in Mid-late August at the very earliest. God is in control of all these things, and I'm going to trust it into His loving, careful hands. (At this point, I really don't have a choice anyway....not that I ever did).
But please keep praying over this situation. I am still excited...I just need to stay that way. I need to keep trusting that the Lord will bring it all to pass...
Jesus, The Healer!
http://nazarenemedialibrary.org/channels/General-Assembly-Video/video/06-27/GA-2009-June-27---PM.aspx
My great friend, (now-retired General Superintendent, the International Church of the Nazarene), Dr Jim Diehl preached this wonderful message on "Jesus, The Healer" about 10 days ago at the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene, which convened in Orlando, Florida.
Go to the link, and scroll over to the 1:22 (one hour, 22 minutes) segment, and listen to one of the most powerful messages you will ever hear on healing.
Praise the Lord for His healing power!
My great friend, (now-retired General Superintendent, the International Church of the Nazarene), Dr Jim Diehl preached this wonderful message on "Jesus, The Healer" about 10 days ago at the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene, which convened in Orlando, Florida.
Go to the link, and scroll over to the 1:22 (one hour, 22 minutes) segment, and listen to one of the most powerful messages you will ever hear on healing.
Praise the Lord for His healing power!
Everyone has an appointment...
And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.
I woke up this morning with this very passage (from Hebrews 9) on my mind. Of course, I've heard this all my life--and I've believed it all my life as well. But, for some reason, this morning the reality of it all hit me in the face. With the recent deaths of John Calloway, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson (all famous, wealthy celebrities), it seems that our culture has forgotten that we humans are not the "Designer" nor the "end" of our eternal destiny.
God is.
I was reminded that all the fame, fortune, philanthropy, good works, social graces, and personal privileges in the world cannot save me. Only God can do that! He has designated HIS Son--Jesus Christ--to be the Savior of all who will call on His name, and trust His grace!
But I must "call on His name" and "trust His grace." That's my part. No one can do that for me. I must willingly participate in this process. I can't do it in abstentia. I can't trust "Grandma's salvation" (and I have two godly grandmothers--one already in heaven, and the other one waiting to go there).
God saw that I would need a Saviour, and His Son, Jesus Christ is that Saviour! Buddha, Allah, Confucious, Mohammed, and Reverend Moon can't do for me what Jesus can do--and has already done!
As one of the great songs of the past so wonderfully proclaims, "I come in the merits of Jesus..."
My only merit is that which Jesus Himself has purchased for me. In a time when "God is back" but JESUS is still rejected, I want to loudly proclaim that Jesus still saves! We can still call on Him, believe His word, and trust His grace!
When we do, we can have no fear of our "appointment." And we will have that appointment. And we will be on time.
I woke up this morning with this very passage (from Hebrews 9) on my mind. Of course, I've heard this all my life--and I've believed it all my life as well. But, for some reason, this morning the reality of it all hit me in the face. With the recent deaths of John Calloway, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson (all famous, wealthy celebrities), it seems that our culture has forgotten that we humans are not the "Designer" nor the "end" of our eternal destiny.
God is.
I was reminded that all the fame, fortune, philanthropy, good works, social graces, and personal privileges in the world cannot save me. Only God can do that! He has designated HIS Son--Jesus Christ--to be the Savior of all who will call on His name, and trust His grace!
But I must "call on His name" and "trust His grace." That's my part. No one can do that for me. I must willingly participate in this process. I can't do it in abstentia. I can't trust "Grandma's salvation" (and I have two godly grandmothers--one already in heaven, and the other one waiting to go there).
God saw that I would need a Saviour, and His Son, Jesus Christ is that Saviour! Buddha, Allah, Confucious, Mohammed, and Reverend Moon can't do for me what Jesus can do--and has already done!
As one of the great songs of the past so wonderfully proclaims, "I come in the merits of Jesus..."
My only merit is that which Jesus Himself has purchased for me. In a time when "God is back" but JESUS is still rejected, I want to loudly proclaim that Jesus still saves! We can still call on Him, believe His word, and trust His grace!
When we do, we can have no fear of our "appointment." And we will have that appointment. And we will be on time.
Thank You, President Obama...for being a Father...
Dear Mr President,
First, let me thank you for emphasizing how important "fathers" are in our society, and to humanity as a whole. I remember, well, your message last Father's Day at Apostolic Church of God here in Chicago. You emphasized the absolute ESSENTIAL nature and responsibilities of what it means to be a "father." You said that "anyone can help conceive, but it takes a MAN to help raise and train" that child that has been produced.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj1hCDjwG6M
Thank you!
I grew up without the love and nurture of my biological father. As you well know, Mr. President, there is 'hole' created by that absence/negligience and it's not easily filled. I'm not sure that my "father hole" will ever be filled. HOWEVER, God Himself has been a "father" to this fatherless boy.
I know the identity of my biological father. I used to know the man pretty well, and over the last 17 years he has dropped out of my life. While that is sometimes disappointing, it is an absence that I learned to live with. I also learned that God will send people to love and care about the "fatherless" just when those people need that care the most. He certainly did, and continues to do so, for this "fatherless" boy.
Robert Lewis, in his groundbreaking/monumental ministry of Men's Fraternity, addressed the "Father Wound"...and much of that wound comes from the "absentee father." I have known that wound very well. And it has taken me most of my life to find "healing" for that wound in my heart.
But, something happened to me about 15 years ago, and I was able to "lay my father" to rest. No, he isn't dead yet. But I was able to "grow up" and "move on in life" without his guidance or interference. I was able to make peace in my own soul concerning the hand that both parents dealt me.
Thank you, President Obama, for emphasizing what it means to be a father. Thank for you for being a wonderful father to your two gorgeous little girls. You and Michelle are doing a terrific job. The Presidency will come to an end...but the love and affections of your family will not. Always remember that.
First, let me thank you for emphasizing how important "fathers" are in our society, and to humanity as a whole. I remember, well, your message last Father's Day at Apostolic Church of God here in Chicago. You emphasized the absolute ESSENTIAL nature and responsibilities of what it means to be a "father." You said that "anyone can help conceive, but it takes a MAN to help raise and train" that child that has been produced.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj1hCDjwG6M
Thank you!
I grew up without the love and nurture of my biological father. As you well know, Mr. President, there is 'hole' created by that absence/negligience and it's not easily filled. I'm not sure that my "father hole" will ever be filled. HOWEVER, God Himself has been a "father" to this fatherless boy.
I know the identity of my biological father. I used to know the man pretty well, and over the last 17 years he has dropped out of my life. While that is sometimes disappointing, it is an absence that I learned to live with. I also learned that God will send people to love and care about the "fatherless" just when those people need that care the most. He certainly did, and continues to do so, for this "fatherless" boy.
Robert Lewis, in his groundbreaking/monumental ministry of Men's Fraternity, addressed the "Father Wound"...and much of that wound comes from the "absentee father." I have known that wound very well. And it has taken me most of my life to find "healing" for that wound in my heart.
But, something happened to me about 15 years ago, and I was able to "lay my father" to rest. No, he isn't dead yet. But I was able to "grow up" and "move on in life" without his guidance or interference. I was able to make peace in my own soul concerning the hand that both parents dealt me.
Thank you, President Obama, for emphasizing what it means to be a father. Thank for you for being a wonderful father to your two gorgeous little girls. You and Michelle are doing a terrific job. The Presidency will come to an end...but the love and affections of your family will not. Always remember that.
An Update on me....Kidney Donor status....
Wayul, friends and neighbors
I made the trip down to Birmingham, Alabama on 10 June, and spent all day on 11 June at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Renal Transplant Center. This day, even though it was in a hospital, was fascinating.
Having been a BIOLOGY major in "another life" I have always loved the medical sciences. Even though I was the "specimen" this time, I found it fascinating.
From the original 16 tubes (YES, SIXTEEN) of blood that I gave as my "lab tests" to the CT Scan, and the Chest X-ray, and the Electrocardiogram (ECG), and finally the Nuclear Renal Scan, it was all an educational experience. (No, Joe, they didn't stick a nuclear warhead up my butt...LOL)
The tests all turned about just about perfect...except, I'm having to repeat a couple of tests...and it's more aggravating than anything else. What I was hoping would be an early July surgery date is now an uncertain date...but definitely before the end of August. There are just a few more "medical things" that need to be settled.
I'm confident they will turn out just fine....and I'll be cleared for surgery. The Proverbs teach us that the "steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD." I also believe the "stops" of a good man are ordered by HIM too.
Keep praying for me.
I made the trip down to Birmingham, Alabama on 10 June, and spent all day on 11 June at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Renal Transplant Center. This day, even though it was in a hospital, was fascinating.
Having been a BIOLOGY major in "another life" I have always loved the medical sciences. Even though I was the "specimen" this time, I found it fascinating.
From the original 16 tubes (YES, SIXTEEN) of blood that I gave as my "lab tests" to the CT Scan, and the Chest X-ray, and the Electrocardiogram (ECG), and finally the Nuclear Renal Scan, it was all an educational experience. (No, Joe, they didn't stick a nuclear warhead up my butt...LOL)
The tests all turned about just about perfect...except, I'm having to repeat a couple of tests...and it's more aggravating than anything else. What I was hoping would be an early July surgery date is now an uncertain date...but definitely before the end of August. There are just a few more "medical things" that need to be settled.
I'm confident they will turn out just fine....and I'll be cleared for surgery. The Proverbs teach us that the "steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD." I also believe the "stops" of a good man are ordered by HIM too.
Keep praying for me.
My "mom" needs your prayers...
My (step)mom--whom I love and adore--has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
She found out yesterday. Understandably, she is upset and very unsure about everything right now. The specialist hasn't told her what stage it is in...but she will be informed very soon. My 'mom' is a wonderful Christian who loves everyone. She has firmly committed her life to the Lord.
Please pray for her. I'll keep you all updated.
She found out yesterday. Understandably, she is upset and very unsure about everything right now. The specialist hasn't told her what stage it is in...but she will be informed very soon. My 'mom' is a wonderful Christian who loves everyone. She has firmly committed her life to the Lord.
Please pray for her. I'll keep you all updated.
Thursday is almost here!
Less than 48 hours from now, I will be flying to Birmingham, Alabama. On Thursday morning, June 11, I will be admitted into the University of Alabama-Birmingham Renal Transplant Center for extensive evaluation as a potential Kidney Donor to my great friend, Dr Bill George.
I am very excited (and humbled) by the opportunities set before me. I have been thinking and praying, and contemplating, and musing. I simply want to be an obedient child of God--hearing and obeying what I discern to be His instructions to me in this matter.
Thus far, the blood types/samples have been great. The 12-Hour Urine specimen has been very good, and the blood pressure logs/records have been very, very sufficient.
My home church, The Moody Church (www.moodychurch.org) has been bathing this situation in fervent prayer, and for this august group of God's saints, I'm eternally, and unendingly grateful.
Let's see what the Lord will have in this situation for myself and Dr Bill George. I covet your prayers.
I am very excited (and humbled) by the opportunities set before me. I have been thinking and praying, and contemplating, and musing. I simply want to be an obedient child of God--hearing and obeying what I discern to be His instructions to me in this matter.
Thus far, the blood types/samples have been great. The 12-Hour Urine specimen has been very good, and the blood pressure logs/records have been very, very sufficient.
My home church, The Moody Church (www.moodychurch.org) has been bathing this situation in fervent prayer, and for this august group of God's saints, I'm eternally, and unendingly grateful.
Let's see what the Lord will have in this situation for myself and Dr Bill George. I covet your prayers.
The "Muslim" Speech...
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Remarks-by-the-President-at-Cairo-University-6-04-09/
I'm still reading through President Obama's speech at Cairo University--the one aimed directly to and about the Muslim world.
Disclaimer: My personal physician, Dr Nadira Ali-Khan is a Muslim from India...and I absolutely adore her! She is probably the very best doctor I've ever had...and I'm thrilled that she would take me on as her patient.
I'm still reading through President Obama's speech at Cairo University--the one aimed directly to and about the Muslim world.
Disclaimer: My personal physician, Dr Nadira Ali-Khan is a Muslim from India...and I absolutely adore her! She is probably the very best doctor I've ever had...and I'm thrilled that she would take me on as her patient.
I love this!
http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/us_world/Church-Hands-50000-To-Parishoners.html?yhp=1
The leaders of an Alabama church got it right! They want to "bless others." I'd love to see many other congregations doing the very same thing. What a difference it would make! What a witness it would be!
The leaders of an Alabama church got it right! They want to "bless others." I'd love to see many other congregations doing the very same thing. What a difference it would make! What a witness it would be!
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