2011 Where Have You Gone

As we near the end of another year , thought I would just put down some highlights that come from my personal reflection on the year. As cliched as it is to say , where did the time go ?

Two things that happened in 2011 that were major highlights for me , were 2 events that I really did not think I would see perhaps in my lifetime. The first was back in March , when I traveled to Moncton , New Brunswick to see my all time favorite  artist , Steven Curtis Chapman. Truly thinking he would never venture close to my neck of the woods , needless to say I was pumped. It was a great concert . Front row tickets thanks to my oldest son . Truly something I will never forget.

The second thing coming just a couple of months after in June was watching the Boston Bruins defeat the Vancouver Canucks in 7 games to hoist the Stanley cup . As any one can tell you , if one is a hockey fan , you live and die as your team goes . It was an amazing run that included 3 seven game series , a thrilling defeat of the Bruins arch nemesis , Montreal in overtime in the 7th game and defeating the Canucks on their home ice to hold the holy grail of hockey.  The house was a rocking that night .

So how could it get better than that you ask ? Simple , it has been 4 years now that my wife has been cancer free. In the grand scheme of things , that is the most important thing in my life , to have my wife whom I treasure , still in my life . For that I thank God for His grace and mercy . To go through life with someone who has been your constant friend and companion through these 27 years has been a true blessing . Best decision I ever made was going on that date my sister set up ( thanks Sis ) .

My sons are now young men . My oldest is in his third year of University . Hard to really fathom that within less than 2 years he will be hopefully making his mark within the business world . My youngest is still searching to figure out what road to travel on . I see in him amazing gifts to write and just pray that he will find the confidence and courage to pursue his dreams. I'm truly proud of them and the men they are becoming.

The year itself had many ups and downs but through it all , God was faithful even when I wasn't . His grace and mercy are truly amazing . So as this year closes and a new one begins here a few of my favorite things from 2011.

Music : Downhere - At The Alter of Love
             Jason Gray - A Way to See in The Dark
             Steven Curtis Chapman - Re : Creation
             Aaron Shust - This is What We Believe
             Josh Wilson - See You
             Matt Redman - 10000 Reasons
             Matt Mahar - The Love in Between
             Phil Wickham - Response

New Christmas Albums played the most for 2011 : David Crowder - Oh For Joy , The Getty's - Joy and Matthew West - The Heart of Christmas

Movies : Didn't see very many this year but Thor , Captain America and Rise of the Planet of the Apes were all good . Still looking forward to seeing MI4 , War Horse and Sherlock Holmes.

Books : Michael Horton - The Christian Faith : Systematic Theology  for Pilgrims on the Way

Fav Website/Blog : Tim Challies

On a final note I'm truly thankful for my family both blood and Church. May 2012 be one full of God's grace and I pray that He will be proclaimed to the ends of the earth . Nuff said.

So What is Your Christmas About

This video presentation concerning Christmas and how apart from Jesus , it is a empty and vapid holiday , is excellent. But for those in Christ and celebrating the incarnation , that changes everything . Enjoy.

Christmas Wars

Much has been said lately over the erosion of Christmas . With many adopting Happy Holidays or Season Greetings so as not to offend those of other traditions . Even Christmas specials seem to be the generic love is the meaning of the season , blah,blah ,blah . In schools , Christmas concerts have been changed to winter celebrations or  whatever politically correct term they can come up with . So is there a war against Christmas  ,  on the surface the war  on Christmas is not on the day . It is more personal .

Yes it is true there is no clear mandate for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus but as said before , taking in account all the events form the prophecies and expectation , to the joy and worship that came  with Jesus arrival , one can infer its a wonderful thing to celebrate the birth of the Savior. So once the Church began to invade the pagan celebrations , although there is evidence that as early as 200 AD - 300 AD , there was a movement to mark the birth of Christ , once Dec 25th was designated the day that Christians would declare Jesus was born to the world , it overtook all pagan traditions and transformed them . Light turned darkness to something amazing .

However with the onslaught of secular humanism within our culture , aggressive  atheist , multiculturalism and a general falling away of the Church being the center piece in the community it used to be , Christian holy days have been under attack . But the days are under assault not for the day and all the fun its brings . Our Pastor pointed out this morning people are fine with the day off , the parties , the food , the gifts , the warm and fuzzy its all about love , family but insert the person of Jesus Christ and well , that changes everything .

So if there is a war against Christmas its not with the day , it is with the person of Jesus . The very word Christmas indicates a Christ - mass . A celebration of the the Lord's table within Catholic tradition . So in a way saying Merry Christmas is to invoke worship of Jesus , even if I disagree with Catholics understanding of the mass , it still reveres Jesus . So when someone is trying to erase  saying Merry Christmas or take it out of a school concert , its a removal is a clear indication that the day is special because it points to a point in time when God came to earth , clothed himself in flesh as the Son , the second person of the trinity .

Its a personal war not against a day or event or gifts but against the very person of Jesus . One could say the very first attack against Christmas , if you will , happened when Herod had all the boys under 2 put to death in Bethlehem because he was a evil , jealous man who was threatened  by the King of Kings . In his desire to remain in power , he wanted to kill this newborn King . God of course had other plans and it was not Jesus time yet to die . Those who wish to put to death Christmas in a sense wish the same as Herod . To be confronted with Jesus will not let a man or woman sit on any fence . But by trying to remove Him , we exult our idols which make us happy and safe . Family , kids , love all those things that try to kill Jesus at this time of year but Jesus cannot be ignored . Just as Herod could not , the world will rail and scream against Jesus but He is the Lord God , He is control not you or me.

If the world hates Christmas or wants to change it , it has to do with our hatred of God's Son . The world hates Christ , the devil and all his demons hate Jesus and we , in our sinful , fallen state are enemies against God. We rage , we will not bow down and worship , we want to live our own way and give the One who we owe our very existence to , no time .

But the beauty and wonderful , amazing , spectacular good news that was  announced by the Angels on the hillside outside of Bethlehem  is a Savior has come for all mankind . That Jesus  , the sinless God-man , came  to undo the fall of Adam by living a perfectly obedient life , gave His life on the Cross , took the wrath of God due us and through His blood , His death and resurrection all who repent and believe this good news are reconciled to a God that is holy.

That's what people rail against . Its not the day , but the person of Christ and His gospel . So no question in my mind there is a war , but its not against the generic fuzzy hallmark special Christmas. Its against the sin forgiving , all powerful , incarnate cross baring person of Jesus Christ.

Jesus warned His followers that we should not be surprised at hatred and hostility  , " If the world hates you , you know that it has hated Me before it hated you " , John 15:18.

So what should we as Christians do ? Should we get upset at the world , the unbelieving  world that they are not joining in , sulk and stamp our feet. Here is my take . Let them rail against the "day"  and remove the name and get a hate on , its their natural state . A state we were once in apart from God's grace . So understanding God's grace to towards us , I think the Shepherds in the field some 2000 years ago give us the answer . Use the day as a conversation piece and proclaim the good news of Jesus and the gospel. The Shepherds made haste Luke tells us , went to see Jesus and after that astonishing event , told all who encountered the blessing they had of the Angels announcement and witnessing the Savior .
So sing the carols , give and love , share the good news and know that our joy is  Jesus and His love for us . The war was won , when Christ broke forth from the grave on that 3rd day . The battles are still being waged but our King is on the throne reigning till He comes at the second advent. So wish people Merry Christmas , proclaim and give no quarter , light always overcomes darkness . 

One of My Favorite Stories Concerning Luther

An exchange between Martin Luther and his wife Katharina:

“Once, when Martin was so depressed that none of Kate’s counsel would help, she put on a black dress.

Luther noticed it and asked, ‘Are you going to a funeral?’

‘No,’ Kate replied, ‘but since you act like God is dead, I wanted to join you in your mourning.’

Luther got the message and recovered.”

—Rudolf K. Markwald and Marilynn Morris Markwald, Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life (Saint Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2002), 139-140.


A godly wife is such a blessing when it comes to a man who can be "moody" (right dear). This little story has always been one of my favorites concerning Luther and his wife . 

Making Sad Things Untrue

Is everything sad going to come untrue? What's happened to the world.
The Lord of the Rings Sam Wise 


The quote from Lord of the Rings really resonants with this compelling story and video about little Dax who was too young to have to say good bye to. As a parent who has watched his boys grow into young men , I'm truly thankful but these stories remind me that the world is not right , that it is broken . This story is not alone . We know from watching the news , reading news on the net or papers, and in our own circle of family and friends , that many this Christmas will be faced with an empty table spot and one less gift under the tree. 


We long for sad things coming untrue , as Samwise said. When we hear of the sad stories we want them to come untrue , we want a happy ending.This Christmas as we think of the coming of God's son , entering humanity to undue the curse of sin and death , and make all things sad untrue, may we praise His holy name. Jesus was born to die , on a cross outside Jerusalem to satisfy God righteous judgement against our sin , our rebellion and break the chains of sin and death in His resurrection. Trusting in Him , we pass from death to life, from sitting under sins curse and His wrath , to forgiveness and reconciliation. 


It is still true , we will physically die , for all things have not been completed but those who have believed in the message of the gospel have hope of eternal life and not damnation. The first advent has happened and with it God's story is moving towards the conclusion . At the second coming , Jesus Christ will make all things new . Death and sin will be no more and God Himself will wipe the tears from our eyes . Sadness will be no more . 

So for little Dax it may have been his last Christmas here but he is in the arms of God with Jesus where no more pain nor the wages of sin have claim on him. One day his Mom and Dad will see him again as they worship the one who makes all sad things come untrue.

Killjoys Go Away !

I like the Puritans in general . Much of what they wrote and taught is spot on, but one blind spot they had was the celebration of Christmas. So concerned to make sure they cut themselves off from any accommodation to Catholic dogma  and all the Popish traditions , they rejected any form of celebration of Christmas. Sorry guys but I don't get you there.

Now I know many Christians even today will rain on the day , telling us that the 25th wasn't the day , that the scripture doesn't give any clear commands to celebrate Jesus birth , all the pagan traditions that have been absorbed , well you get the picture . The constant barrage is constant and annoying to be honest to someone who loves the day set apart to declare , something amazing had happened , the Messiah has come.

So let me list a few things that I hold that indicated that its not only alright to celebrate the coming of Jesus but that it is a good  and  wonderful thing to do so .

If a day is to be special , even in culture , announcements are made and signs are posted to let others know that something cool is going to happen. Well going all the way back to Genesis 3 , right after the fall of Adam and Eve , God promises a coming of a Messiah that would redeem and crush the evil ones head.  Jumping ahead to Abraham , God promises to make him a nation through one to come , who's descendant will not be able to be counted. The prophet Isaiah tells us a virgin will conceive and bare  a son and His name will be wonderful counselor , Mighty God , Everlasting Father , Prince of Peace . Micah promises one who would rule would be born in  Bethlehem . There are  more promises of the coming of the Messiah but its clear that a major event was being foretold to the people that God was going to do something amazing .

Jumping to the New Testament there is a huge amount of activity . The appearance of Angels to numerous people is astounding . Lets look at them. Zecharias had an Angel appear to him in the temple to tell him Elizabeth would have a son and his name would be John . He would be great in the eyes of the Lord and be the forerunner. Then the Angel Gabriel appears to Mary and announced  that she would conceive and bare a Son , by the power of the Holy Spirit , fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah about a virgin conceiving a son. The Shepherds are told  of the great news of a Savior born in the city of David ( Bethlehem ) and a multitude of the heavenly host praise God over the birth of Jesus. The Shepherds make haste and go to Bethlehem and see the a babe , telling others of the wonders they had seen .   Add into the mix both Simeon and Anna  rejoicing over Jesus  , all of these events have a celebratory nature . A proclamation of something great , awesome and amazing had occurred.

Then the magi enter into the scene . Having scene "His star " they traveled to find the one who was born King of the Jews so that the could worship Him . How many Magi or wise men there were is never mentioned but we do know they came baring gifts of frankincense , myrrh and gold . In this part of the story we have a major celestial event , a star and a group of wise men who came to worship and give Him gifts.

Consider also the appearance of Angels . Typically they only appeared when something major was about to occur and they are all over the birth of Jesus. Can one read the story of the Shepherds and marvel that perhaps thousands of Angels praise God in unison over this birth. Is that not a celebration.

So stepping back and looking at all the rejoicing , the heralding and the joy of this good news of the Son of God coming , I do not think its a leap to say , to celebrate the birth of Christ is not only a good thing to do but although not explicitly commanded , taking all the promises of Jesus birth and the actual joy over His birth ,  I believe and hold its the right thing to do .

So to all the naysayers and "humbugs" out there within the flock of God , go back and re read the promises , the fulfillment and see a pattern of expectation and rejoicing when Jesus comes . Christmas is awesome not for family , for kids ,for gifts , for food , for decorations but for who came over 2000 years ago so that sinners like you and me might be reconciled to God . Christmas is a marvelous and amazing story of God showing His love and grace to a fallen world . If you can't celebrate that , then you don't get how awesome the birth of Jesus was.

A Hard Thing but a Good Thing

Ok , this blog post is going to be very indulgent . Indulgent in my praise and respect I have for my wife . So let me explain .

Since her cancer diagnoses over 4 years ago , I have watched her grow deeper and deeper in her faith that truly amazes me. But not only deeper in her faith and love for Jesus but she has been a tour de force in witnessing and sharing her faith . Its not that she Bible thumps but I have seen her engage others and then enter into dialog with them concerning the truth of the gospel. I still recall her telling a VON nurse that was talking about positive thinking , that she trust in God no matter in life or death because of Jesus . I don't know if Kathy saw the VON's face but it was funny to see her reaction.

In her place of work , since she returned she has has numerous chances to speak the truth in love and respect , sharing the hope that she has . Just the other day she was talking about the biblical teaching on headship and how it is not oppressive . She gives no quarter but is never arrogant , she shows grace and understanding .

But I think what has impressed me the most has been her help and support she is extending to her best friend , who's Mom is nearing the end of her life. This is never a easy thing to walk into a house where its obvious death is closing in on someone . You can feel it and sense it. I recall when my Mom was diagnosed with only a few months to live , many of her so called friends did not even come around. Why? Because they did not want to be faced with their own mortality.

But when you have stared death in the face yourself , have the Lord in your life , it should give you a strength that is alien to you and I have seen my wife filled with the Holy Spirit and given wisdom and compassion. I know its not going to be easy for her , for she has considered her friends Mom a friend as well. But she is doing what a good Christian is called to do , to show love , compassion , to mourn with those who weep . By doing so she is being a witness .

What she is doing is simply the command of our Lord to be salt and light to a world that is in darkness. The world and those around us need to see that light because sometimes this world can be a pretty dark and sad place . But , don't you love that word , in Christ all things change . So a tip of hat to a wife that is putting doctrine into practice .

Carols , Decorating and 18 Days

Last year I was late getting to watch the numerous Christmas Carols that have been made over the years. This year I have made it a silent pack to myself to watch them all before Christmas. Each one has some scenes that I really love. The only one I do not like very much is the musical ones and the comedy featuring Bill Murray. It just didn't work for me . So we started with my youngest son's favorite starring Patrick Stewart. It is one of the most faithful to the book and Stewart captures the meanness and cold heart nature of Scrooge very well. The cast is stellar and it has numerous scenes that really stick out.So one down and 4 to go.

Today I hope to get the tree. It has been a tradition to take the boys with me and let them choose , fortunately , Jordan ( the youngest ) always had a decent eye . Now that they are older , Jacob ( the oldest and in his 3rd year of University) will just let Jord do his magic.  As the boys near the day they will leave our house , each Christmas is very special to me . I savor them and Lord willing hope one day they will have grand children to fill my house at Christmas time.

So now that its only 18 days away I remind myself that no matter if there is snow or not , the blessing of Christmas is wrapped up in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Recently had a very short conversation with someone who was debating to even put up a tree or buy gifts etc... why? Because their kids are all working on Christmas day and they have no need for anything. After saying I look forward to Christmas no matter what , I wished him a merry Christmas and left. After leaving it saddened me to think how many think this way .

The truth of the matter without one celebrating the birth of Jesus , God in that stable , why really continue to partake in the day. Yes I know the pagans say we "stole" their traditions , get over it. For when ever God touches the ordinary He transforms it. If Christians didn't start to go against the pagan  celebrations . would we even have special day in December . Let me tell you emphatically not.

So I will continue to enjoy and celebrate Christmas , taking the traditions borrowed and transformed for Christ and no matter how old I get , I will play carols , buy gifts , put up a real tree ,use some mistletoe  to kiss my lovely wife hang decorations and enjoy the day that commemorates when the Savior came to save sinners like me. What is not to celebrate and tell the world that good news.

Good news from heaven the angels bring,
Glad tidings to the earth they sing:
To us this day a child is given,
To crown us with the joy of heaven.

~ Martin Luther

---

Celebrating the Birth of Christ

Feature Song Christmas Like a Child - Third day

When your a little kid , the wonder of Christmas is ever present. The specials on TV , the tree trimming , the build up to presents but once one gets older , it can lose its wonder . But the wonder of Christmas doesn't have to diminish or go away if we worship the one who came . To comprehend that the God who created the universe entered into this world as a baby that amazing night should leave one overwhelmed with awe . Does its , it should . So whenever I listen to this song by Third Day , I remind myself what Jesus said , that unless one comes as a little child , one will not see the kingdom of God.

Don't Get The Problem

Over the last little while I have read numerous blogs,articles concerning what the Church main task should be in this world. While it is true , some have emphasized a social gospel over the cross and preaching Christ to confusing good works as the primary force , I don't get the struggle.

Perhaps its because I do not have the mental capacity to think this through but the tension between keeping the gospel the main thing , discipleship inside the Church and at the same time calling them to do good works ,share what they have . love one another , love your neighbor is not something that seems that hard to do. The two do not function against each other but one is powered by the other.

The call of the gospel and proclaiming Jesus Christ , His life ,death and resurrection must be of the first order. The urgency to call sinners to repent and be saved from the wrath of God to come has to be the first order  message of any true Church. The next step is the matter of preaching the word and feeding the flock so that they move unto to maturity and holiness . To grow in doctrine and be firm in the faith.

That is what gives the engine steam to move to the second stage as I see it.Not just playing lip service but actual works. It could be very simple things from helping someone carrying groceries , shoveling , to donating to a food bank , sponsoring a child , giving time to a friend or neighbor in need , loving your family etc. If one has means what is the mandate of scripture to hoard it , to buy bigger better and take it to your grave . No , one will be hard pressed to read scripture and not be hammered over the head about giving , sharing and helping. Yes its true , one must and should work , keep oneself from being idle and seek not to be a burden but in this fallen , sinful broken world sometimes things happen and people need more than just empty prayers.

The truth is if one calls oneself a Christian and has no works to validate that claim , then you are speaking empty words. For if one truly knows Jesus and the gospel , it cannot help but change you . If your heart is not prone to giving , to sharing , to loving , to forgiving the take a close look in the mirror.

So why all the confusion . The Church needs to about making disciples and being a light on the hill to a world that is consumed with self and greed .

Featured Song by Matthew west

Featured song. Over the next couple of weeks I will feature a song about Christmas . Most will be new songs and I hope they will speak to you as we prepare to sing God's praises this holy season.

Matthew West - Day After Christmas 

This song is so true . Jesus doesn't get packed away like tinsel or garland . He is alive , He is Lord , He is King , He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is with us now . He is coming again and one day we will see Him face to face . So remember that the day after is just as full of Christ presence as any day . So may we reflect this truth and may Christmas just remind us that one day , when all things are made new when Jesus comes again and God dwells with us forever , it will be Christmas everyday , but better.

Its Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

Dec 1st , which means the real countdown begins to Christmas day . Since I'm what they say , between jobs in this politically correct world , I will be handling , along with my youngest son , Jordan , the decor of the house. My lovely wife will have veto if we go too gaudy , but we will attempt not to .

Its something that I truly look forward to . Most men are so Scrooges when it comes to Christmas but not me . My wife calls me "Mr.Christmas" and its true. I love the music . I love the Lights , I love being on Christmas day with family and most importantly I love the Lord Jesus Christ and what he came to do on my behalf.

So hopefully over the next week or so I will post some pics of our decorating ability. I will not let the commercialization of Christmas ruin my Christmas as Charlie Brown said, to that I say AMEN!

It Must Be Close To Bashing Time

So here we go again . As we near Christmas it will be very time to bash not only Christmas but Jesus . Already I have read the tiresome ,well you know the whole Christmas theme was borrowed from pagan sources foolishness , as if Pagan religions had any coherent writings (not)  . Plus as real historians have pointed out over ad nauseaum , Pagan influence within the early Church is not there. Christianity rose form its Jewish roots and once one honestly investigates , you see the other legends emerge later , even 100's of years removed . It is more likely they were influenced by the Christians. Plus there evidence that early Christians began to celebrate around 200 ad  some form of celebration of the birth of Christ. Yes , many customs over the years have been incorporated but as with anything Christ touches , it has been transformed . So give no quarter to the pagans on this matter .

Then we have the utter blasphemy,  the ridicule and hostility leveled towards Christians, the Church and Jesus . From a movie that I will not mention here but has scenes so depraved and portraying our Lord in a totally offensive way that it comes from the pit of hell . Then you have "holiday" comedy special running on a Canadian network, that is full of irreverent humor and disrespect towards the story of Christmas ( What the Tolerant Must Tolerate you read about it here) .  The point is each year over the last while the attacks , the disrespect  and disdain is growing. From schools dropping the name "Christmas" concert so as not to offend to stores running "holiday" specials. Christmas has become a dirty word .

I still recall a time as a child , that even though being raised in a non-christian home , that the respect and reverence was still witnessed. That I recall singing songs about Jesus at our school concerts and even a visible nativity scene on display, boggles my mind now. There was no question that even with all the "other" trappings and traditions borrowed , the celebration had religious significance at its core. Much has changed within less than 40 years.

We in the west have been spoiled rotten. In other places in the world the gospel , the message of the cross has been attacked and persecuted fiercely. Our shores have been a quiet place. One could practice a safe belief for a long time . But with the emergence of atheism that is very strident and hateful , along with the push to except the depravity of homosexuality as normal , we are seeing a rise of hatred against the Church and Jesus we have never seen in my lifetime. But we should not be surprised . Jesus said that the world hated Him first and if we are in Him and are His disciples , it will hate us as well.

So brace yourself and know what you believe , stand firm and be not afraid . For it is a great honor to enter into suffering for Jesus sake . For He is worth it . So stand up and prepare for a spiritual war . But know we have the truth of the gospel of Christ and it will expose the deeds of darkness and bring glory to  God .

Too Many Words

So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.

How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.

(James 3:5-10 ESV)

When one is tired , stressed , struggling with pain and maybe fighting feeling defeated , one should learn  not say anything before thinking it through .  As James reminded me instantly after I said perhaps the stupidest thing I have ever said , which I confess there have been others in the past , but this one was uncalled for and in hindsight  , came out wrong and not in the way I intended . The problem with the tongue is that it reflects the heart.  I'm reminded how Martin Luther  said many great things but at the same time , could say so many things that can make one cringe. 


But suffering from the various illnesses  he suffered and all the stress he was under , I get how he would spout off and say things , that I bet if he could step back , perhaps he would have calmed his tongue and pen. But he didn't and it is out there for all the world to see. That is the thing about words , they linger . Once you say a thing it is not something like a bone that's broke and mends , words rip and tear at the soul . Words carry poison to the heart and can leave a damage that unless the gospel is applied , can render deep emotional wounds that heal very slowly. 


We all have a tendency to say things as well to the ones we love the most . It is our spouse or kids that will usually take the brunt of our words. Why ? I believe our sinful nature , warring with our new nature , fed by the world and Satan fanning those fires , causes our testimony of Christ to be weakened and even null and void of any power. By causing tension and conflict within a household and rendering the home in discord , it guts the gospel witness. 


So in a real and public way , I want to ask for forgiveness from my Wife , who is the most blessed thing God has placed in  my life , whom I would die for in a heart beat , for the words I said in a cloud of fatigue,stress and despair. I let my old nature rule me , the world sift  and the devil to laugh in victory with my uncalled for words that hurt you. Instead of fleeing to Christ and letting Him take my weariness , it came outwards toward you and for that I'm repented  and tearfully sorry . 


May this be a lesson to me and anyone else , when tempted by the flesh to use the tongue to hurt , may the Holy Spirit take the word and yield it as a mighty sword to defeat the sin within and instead and use James 3 to shut your mouth and re open it for God's glory with words of grace, love and encouragement .  

A Few New Christmas Musical Journeys

Since I have been a bit slack in posting new material lately , I thought what better way to kick off a new start of post with Christmas music. There are a few new ones I hope to purchase over the next couple of weeks . Plus since it now is past November 15th , the countdown begins in earnest. This weekend we will dig out the decorations and begin to make the house reflect that Christmas is coming. So here is a quick list of a few releases I hope to be listening to as the day we celebrate the birth of the Saviour , Jesus Christ , the Son of God , comes .
1. Keith & Kristyn Getty - Joy ,An Irish Christmas
2. David Crowder Band - Oh For the Joy
3.Matthew West - The Heart of Christmas
4.Small Town Poets - Christmas
5.Jadon Lavik - Christmas

I'm sure there will be a few more but for now that is my list . Now for the Egg Nog , candy canes and oh yeah , need to get the mistletoe out as well . 39 sleeps till Christmas !

A Time To Pause

Friday is a day we stop and recall the sacrifice of all those who have served and some who paid the ultimate price to secure our freedoms. Those who have served in the military throughout the years deserve our respect and  thanks. May we comprehend how precious it is we live in a free country and stand up when free speech is trying to be stifled .

So thank you for all who serve still . May we never forget.



In Flanders fields the poppies blow
      Between the crosses, row on row,
   That mark our place; and in the sky
   The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
   Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
         In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
   The torch; be yours to hold it high.
   If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
         In Flanders fields.

Super Grover Always Makes Me Laugh

Tough Subject and the Truth

Recently on a show that is broadcasted on the CBC , a personality went on a rant concerning bullying.  There was a clear connection to the suicides of young people resulting from being bullied about being gay. As anyone knows , High-school is a breeding place for bullies. From being fat , ugly  ,slow, black different in anyway , you can be a target . Within that list add the young and gay. They have been told to be who they are , come out and be proud. But the world is a place that is full of those who will hate and bully. But many will list Christians in the hate and bully camp . Is this so and do Christians play a role in this tragedy.

First I will with no apologies say the Bible teaches clearly  , that the only sexuality that God is pleased with and has given to humanity is within marriage between a man and woman. The word says the marriage bed is undefiled.  That its sanctified by God's blessing . That it for both intimacy and children . Any other form is sin . Sex outside of marriage is sexually immoral  and is listed in 1 Corinthians 6 as one of the sins of those who are under God's wrath. Within that list it also homosexuality as well .

Homosexuality is sin , serious sin against a holy God . But any sin is a serious sin against God. As a Christian we must be very careful not to exult homosexuality above or move beyond what God's word tells us concerning any behavior that is against God. To tell someone that God does not approve of their lifestyle choices is not the same as hating or bullying as long as we maintain a biblical understanding of how to call out sinners to repentance

First we have to see others as made in the image of God. That every person is a image bearer although fallen ,broken and a sinner . But that in itself gives each person worth.

Second , we are all sinners . No one is righteous , no one is without temptations. Each person will struggle with different sins , that are the result of our fallen nature. So homosexuality and same sex attraction is one of those sins many may fight all their lives.

Third , we knowing we are saved by grace alone , by faith alone , in Christ alone should give a Christian any room for arrogance or self righteousness .

Fourth , one must make no room for hatred , speech that is unbecoming and incites any type of harm to a person period. Jesus said to love your enemies. Who are the enemies ? Anyone who opposes the gospel of Christ.

Fifth , we must at the same time be willing to proclaim the truth of the gospel of Christ without editing . But the point to start is we are all sinners in need of God's forgiveness , not a peculiar sinful behavior . That may come into the conversation but shouldn't be the starting point.

Sixth , make it clear when it comes to "christian's" who expound hate and advocate a gospel that is no gospel , that you are not in the same boat. Explain the difference.

Last , reach out in love without compromising what the Bible teaches . One will face hostility and sometimes even threats but return this with love . Just as Jesus did facing the cross and his persecutors , show compassion and forgiveness .

These are just simple thoughts from a Christian who is deeply saddened by bullying but I do not hold sharing God's truth in love , falls under this category . Bullying has no place in a Christians life . Nuff said.

Reformation Still On

There have been those in the last 20 years or so who have pushed that the reformation is all but over. With a push by Chuck Colson and others , the Evangelicals and Catholics together movement has made  some to believe we are all one big family. However once you look at the central differences , one will come to the conclusion , unless you are willing to surrender any pursuit of truth in matters of doctrine, the gap still exist as wide as ever.

The  5 sola's of the reformation still stand in complete contrast to all central Catholic understanding of those matters. No we need to continue to defend the gospel , hold to the what was started in the reformation and carry the torch still . Many may be confused because when some say I believe in Jesus , well that settles it . But the Mormons , Jehovah Witnesses say as much , yet most realize they do not believe in the Jesus of the Bible. Well in a real way neither does the Catholic Church in matters pertaining to Jesus Christ being our only reason for salvation. It Jesus plus works , its salvation found within the Church , Marian dogma, praying to saints , the mass , the treasury of merit , the Pope .

Now granted many Catholics are saved despite the doctrines of the Church. They believe it is only Christ that saves and secures but within its system , many are deceived and in the dark . It is another gospel . The reformation insistence  on scripture alone , by faith alone , by grace alone , in Christ alone and to the glory of God alone still needs to proclaimed . so may we look back to stand form as we move into the future.

Give It Back to the Kids or Good Grief , I Got a rock!

There have been many articles of late lamenting Halloween and these coming from secular sources. Basically they argue and with some sadness , how Halloween has been co-opted by adults. That its all about the parties and has become very overtly sexual in the costumes worn by many. It has become a adult "holiday" to throw off the restraints of society and be who you really want to be .

The sad thing about all this is , the little kids have been left out in the cold . If you don't think that is the case , visit the Halloween costume section of your local department store. The section for grown ups has pretty much over taken the kids section almost.

Now I will tell you right up front , I have never been a huge fan of Halloween. Yes I did go out trick or treating but pretty much stopped when I was around 11. It just never appealed to me . That being said , I'm not a kill joy . Seeing little kids dressed up in cool costumes and having fun getting free candy is fine. But its just gone way too over the top for adults .

Why has this occurred is perhaps in no time recent  history have we had a group of parents raised in the era of sex  , drugs and rock n roll. This  told them to rebel , be young forever , embrace the hidden you and do what you want . I have heard of in some situations the adults were more excited about Halloween than their kids. I find that strange and a bit disturbing. The quest to be forever young I hold plays a part .

So my thought is simple , let the kids have the day back . Let them take it over and return it to the fun it used to be before grown ups , acting as kids took it over. So costumes off and grow up and be an adult , or all you should get on Halloween is a rock . Nuff said.

Final Post of the 95 Theses from Martin Luther

 So there we have it , all 95 . It was the beginning of the rescue of the gospel from oppression, corruption  and superstition. There of course were pre-reformers as well like John Hus and John Wycliffe , so it was clear that God was moving to shine a light and once again show that the  gates of hell will never prevail. So happy reformation day and be thankful for a German monk , a mallet and a piece of paper.


             Luther's 95 Theses 

69. Bishops and curates are bound to admit the commissaries of apostolic pardons, with all reverence.
70. But still more are they bound to strain all their eyes and attend with all their ears, lest these men preach their own dreams instead of the commission of the pope.
71. He who speaks against the truth of apostolic pardons, let him be anathema and accursed!
72. But he who guards against the lust and license of the pardon-preachers, let him be blessed!
73. The pope justly thunders against those who, by any art, contrive the injury of the traffic in pardons.
74. But much more does he intend to thunder against those who use the pretext of pardons to contrive the injury of holy love and truth.
75. To think the papal pardons so great that they could absolve a man even if he had committed an impossible sin and violated the Mother of God -- this is madness.
76. We say, on the contrary, that the papal pardons are not able to remove the very least of venial sins, so far as its guilt is concerned.
77. It is said that even St. Peter, if he were now Pope, could not bestow greater graces; this is blasphemy against St. Peter and against the pope.
78. We say, on the contrary, that even the present pope, and any pope at all, has greater graces at his disposal; to wit, the Gospel, powers, gifts of healing, etc., as it is written in I. Corinthians xii.
79. To say that the cross, emblazoned with the papal arms, which is set up [by the preachers of indulgences], is of equal worth with the Cross of Christ, is blasphemy.
80. The bishops, curates and theologians who allow such talk to be spread among the people, will have an account to render.
81. This unbridled preaching of pardons makes it no easy matter, even for learned men, to rescue the reverence due to the pope from slander, or even from the shrewd questionings of the laity.
82. To wit: -- "Why does not the pope empty purgatory, for the sake of holy love and of the dire need of the souls that are there, if he redeems an infinite number of souls for the sake of miserable money with which to build a Church? The former reasons would be most just; the latter is most trivial."
83. Again: -- "Why are mortuary and anniversary masses for the dead continued, and why does he not return or permit the withdrawal of the endowments founded on their behalf, since it is wrong to pray for the redeemed?"
84. Again: -- "What is this new piety of God and the pope, that for money they allow a man who is impious and their enemy to buy out of purgatory the pious soul of a friend of God, and do not rather, because of that pious and beloved soul's own need, free it for pure love's sake?"
85. Again: -- "Why are the penitential canons long since in actual fact and through disuse abrogated and dead, now satisfied by the granting of indulgences, as though they were still alive and in force?"
86. Again: -- "Why does not the pope, whose wealth is to-day greater than the riches of the richest, build just this one church of St. Peter with his own money, rather than with the money of poor believers?"
87. Again: -- "What is it that the pope remits, and what participation does he grant to those who, by perfect contrition, have a right to full remission and participation?"
88. Again: -- "What greater blessing could come to the Church than if the pope were to do a hundred times a day what he now does once, and bestow on every believer these remissions and participations?"
89. "Since the pope, by his pardons, seeks the salvation of souls rather than money, why does he suspend the indulgences and pardons granted heretofore, since these have equal efficacy?"
90. To repress these arguments and scruples of the laity by force alone, and not to resolve them by giving reasons, is to expose the Church and the pope to the ridicule of their enemies, and to make Christians unhappy.
91. If, therefore, pardons were preached according to the spirit and mind of the pope, all these doubts would be readily resolved; nay, they would not exist.
92. Away, then, with all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, "Peace, peace," and there is no peace!
93. Blessed be all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, "Cross, cross," and there is no cross!
94. Christians are to be exhorted that they be diligent in following Christ, their Head, through penalties, deaths, and hell;
95. And thus be confident of entering into heaven rather through many tribulations, than through the assurance of peace.

Nearing the End of the 95 Theses

Keep in mind that as you read these it was the start of Luther's journey out of the  Catholic Church. At this point he stilled held many basic views of the Roman Catholic Church. However this was the snowball that began to roll and would not stop.

Luther's 95 Theses 


53. They are enemies of Christ and of the pope, who bid the Word of God be altogether silent in some Churches, in order that pardons may be preached in others.
54. Injury is done the Word of God when, in the same sermon, an equal or a longer time is spent on pardons than on this Word.
55. It must be the intention of the pope that if pardons, which are a very small thing, are celebrated with one bell, with single processions and ceremonies, then the Gospel, which is the very greatest thing, should be preached with a hundred bells, a hundred processions, a hundred ceremonies.
56. The "treasures of the Church," out of which the pope. grants indulgences, are not sufficiently named or known among the people of Christ.
57. That they are not temporal treasures is certainly evident, for many of the vendors do not pour out such treasures so easily, but only gather them.
58. Nor are they the merits of Christ and the Saints, for even without the pope, these always work grace for the inner man, and the cross, death, and hell for the outward man.
59. St. Lawrence said that the treasures of the Church were the Church's poor, but he spoke according to the usage of the word in his own time.
60. Without rashness we say that the keys of the Church, given by Christ's merit, are that treasure;
61. For it is clear that for the remission of penalties and of reserved cases, the power of the pope is of itself sufficient.
62. The true treasure of the Church is the Most Holy Gospel of the glory and the grace of God.
63. But this treasure is naturally most odious, for it makes the first to be last.
64. On the other hand, the treasure of indulgences is naturally most acceptable, for it makes the last to be first.
65. Therefore the treasures of the Gospel are nets with which they formerly were wont to fish for men of riches.
66. The treasures of the indulgences are nets with which they now fish for the riches of men.
67. The indulgences which the preachers cry as the "greatest graces" are known to be truly such, in so far as they promote gain.
68. Yet they are in truth the very smallest graces compared with the grace of God and the piety of the Cross.

Continuing With Luther

I am afraid that the schools will prove the very gates of hell, unless they diligently labor in explaining the Holy Scriptures and engraving them in the heart of the youth.
Martin Luther

Luther's 95 Theses 

34. For these "graces of pardon" concern only the penalties of sacramental satisfaction, and these are appointed by man.

35. It is not according to Christian doctrine to preach and teach that contrition is not necessary for those who intend to buy souls out of purgatory or to buy confessional licenses.

36. Every truly repentant Christian has a right to full remission of penalty and guilt, even without letters of pardon.

37. Every true Christian, whether living or dead, has part in all the blessings of Christ and the Church; and this is granted him by God, even without letters of pardon.

38. Nevertheless, the remission and participation [in the blessings of the Church] which are granted by the pope are in no way to be despised, for as I have said, they are the declaration of divine remission.

39. It is most difficult, even for the very best theologians, to commend to the people the abundance of pardons while at the same time encouraging true contrition.

40. True contrition seeks and loves penalties, but generous pardons only relax penalties and cause them to be hated, or at least, furnish an occasion [for hating them].

41. Papal pardons should be preached with caution, lest people falsely think they are preferable to other good works of love.

42. Christians should be taught that the pope does not intend the purchase of pardons to be compared in any way to works of mercy.

43. Christians should be taught that he who gives to the poor or lends to the needy does a better work than buying pardons;

44. Because love grows by works of love, and a man becomes a better man; but by pardons he does not grow better, only escapes penalty.

45. Christians should be taught that he who sees a person in need, and passes him by, and then purchases pardons, purchases not the indulgences of the pope, but the indignation of God.

46. Christians should be taught that unless they have more than they need, they are bound to keep what is necessary for their own families, and should by no means squander it on pardons.

47. Christians are to be taught that the buying of pardons is a voluntary matter, and not a legal requirement.

48. Christians should be taught that in granting pardons the pope needs and desires their devout prayer for him more than the money they bring.

49. Christians are to be taught that the pope's pardons are useful only if they do not put their trust in them; but altogether harmful, if they lose their fear of God because of them.

50. Christians should be taught that if the pope knew the exactions of the pardon-preachers, he would rather that St. Peter's church be reduced to ashes than be built up with the skin, flesh and bones of his sheep.

51. Christians should be taught that it would be the pope's wish, as it is his duty, to give of his own money, even though the church of St. Peter might have to be sold, to many of those from whom certain hawkers of pardons cajole money.

52. The assurance of salvation by letters of pardon is useless, even though the commissary, or indeed even though the pope himself, were to stake his soul upon it.

No Excuses From a Arm Chair Theologian

With the US election coming next year and the search for the republican candidate  in full swing , the issue concerning Mitt Romney and his Mormonism has played out. The issue whether or not a Evangelical Christian should vote for a Mormon and even further whether it is within the scope of the Christian faith.So the light has been shining on this belief system.

So many talk shows and news related items have been popping up. recently the famous smiling , tickle your ears Pastor , Joel Osteen , has been asked to comment about Romney and Mormon belief . I do not care about his responses concerning Romney as a candidate but it was his comments about Mormon beliefs that was so maddening. More or less he didn't take Mormon doctrine out of the flow of the Christian truth and all his answers where so , weak. Then he excused himself in a way saying he hasn't gone to seminary. 

Give me a break . First is his head in the sand that he doesn't have the time in a week to read a chapter from Walter Martin's Kingdom of the Cults and see how Mormonism and historic Christianity have no relationship at all. That the terms they use like Jesus ,God etc.. their teaching concerning sin , the virgin birth , well the list could go on and on are foreign to classic Christian teaching. To think this man has sold millions of books , attracts 20000 people each week and he uses an excuse , he never attended a seminary.

 In no time in history have Christians been so blessed to have excess to so much solid material. From solid christian histories by Phillip Schaff , John Calvin's Institutes , Luther works, Spurgeons sermons to more contemporary writers like Sproul, Horton , White , MacArthur to websites like Ligoinier ,White Horse Inn , Alpha and Omega Ministries , well I could keep going but you get my point. The resources are amazing.

Now I consider myself a arm chair theologian. I have amassed a decent library and have books about pretty much every major doctrine from the Trinity to the atonement. Along with numerous commentaries and study bibles , if asked whether  Mormonism is Christian  , I would answer clearly no and could give a basic over view why this is so . Guess what Joel , I have never set foot within a seminary. Fathom that !

In my opinion , no one who calls himself a pastor and shepherd of the flock and cannot discern falsehood , is fit to call themselves a pastor of Christ Church.

Osteen needs to step up or step down. He is simple embarrassing and is the poster boy of the type of person Paul says people will want for he tickles ears and feeds the masses what they want to hear. This is also why doctrine and teaching is crucial. But with all the resources out there , Osteen and anyone like him who thinks Mormonism is Christian in any way , are without excuse.Nuff said.

Continuing Luther's 95 Theses

Amazing what happened with a hammer and a nail .One note I would like to make . Luther at this time still held to the reality of purgatory , so keep this in mind as you read through his 95 theses . However as the reformation took hold and Luther made his complete break from Catholicism and allow scripture to be the standard of truth not a Pope or Magisterial board , by around 1530 , he had totally rejected purgatory . Luther said that not one passage from the word of God could be used to teach this doctrine .


25. The power which the pope has, in a general way, over purgatory, is just like the power which any bishop or curate has, in a special way, within his own diocese or parish.
26. The pope does well when he grants remission to souls [in purgatory], not by the power of the keys (which he does not possess), but by way of intercession.
27. They preach man who say that so soon as the penny jingles into the money-box, the soul flies out [of purgatory].
28. It is certain that when the penny jingles into the money-box, gain and avarice can be increased, but the result of the intercession of the Church is in the power of God alone.
29. Who knows whether all the souls in purgatory wish to be bought out of it, as in the legend of Sts. Severinus and Paschal.
30. No one is sure that his own contrition is sincere; much less that he has attained full remission.
31. Rare as is the man that is truly penitent, so rare is also the man who truly buys indulgences, i.e., such men are most rare.
32. They will be condemned eternally, together with their teachers, who believe themselves sure of their salvation because they have letters of pardon.
33. Men must be on their guard against those who say that the pope's pardons are that inestimable gift of God by which man is reconciled to Him;
34. For these "graces of pardon" concern only the penalties of sacramental satisfaction, and these are appointed by man.
35. They preach no Christian doctrine who teach that contrition is not necessary in those who intend to buy souls out of purgatory or to buy confessionalia.
36. Every truly repentant Christian has a right to full remission of penalty and guilt, even without letters of pardon.
37. Every true Christian, whether living or dead, has part in all the blessings of Christ and the Church; and this is granted him by God, even without letters of pardon.

Let the Word Speak

The main task of the pastor is to preach. To proclaim the word of God and expound on its truths and meaning to the congregation each Lord's day. It is a lofty and serious task to open the word of God for with doing so comes great responsibility  . One has the eternal nurture of the flocks souls. The pastor is called to feed the sheep . Just as any shepherd needs to care for his sheep , the pastor must fulfill this role with due diligence.

As a pastor he is called to do primarily three things with the text. To use hermeneutics , exegesis and exposition of the text. Hermeneutics is the science of interpretation , exegesis the examination of the text and its meaning in context and exposition is the applying what one has learned and preaching out the meaning for application to congregation. However first and foremost , one is preaching for God's glory and to Him , therefore how one handles the word should be done with the utmost reverence and seriousness to get it right.

The pastor is to hold to sound doctrine ( Titus 1:9) and be able to handle the word of God rightly ( 2 Tim 2:15). A pastor should not be carried away with trends and novelty nor apply his own thoughts or thinking over the clear teaching of scripture just to try and make a point . If he twist the scripture and wrestles it out of context to say something it really doesn't  , he is misrepresenting the word and by doing so , God . When a pastor does this it is called , eisegesis. Unlike exegesis , which seeks to draw out the meaning of the text , eisegesis is the reading into the text ones own interpretation  , doing violence to the word of God.

I have heard over the years many abuses like this and wonder why or how it could happen . I realize certain teachings we will encounter slight differences of opinion but if the pastor at least tries to handle the text honestly , no problem. But recently I heard what was one of the worse I have eve heard .

The text handled was the story form 2 Kings concerning the Prophet Elisha . It was just after Elijah had anointed Elisha as his successor as Prophet of the Lord . Elijah then is taken up into heaven by the Lord's chariot and Elisha shortly after performs two miracles .Using Elijah's cloak , he parts the river Jordan and crosses over . Then he heals the water near Jericho that was bad and not safe . So he shows himself confirmed to be the Lord's prophet.

The main part of the text that was so misused was the next part of the story . As Elisha is approaching Bethel , a mob of youth or young boys begins to taunt him and call out to him , "Go up , Baldhead , Go Up , Baldhead ". Now first we must understand Bethal was in a apostate way as one can read about in 1  Kings 12 . So to have this mob of youth show disrespect to the Lord's prophet is nothing more than an extension of Bethel's apostasy.  Plus to show contempt or disrespect to God's prophet is to disrespect God Himself , since the prophet is the representative of God.

So this mob of youth , numbering probably over 50 and we can conclude with some certainly , Elisah might have been in real danger knowing the the situation of Bethel , Elisha curses them and 2 female bears come out and 42 are mauled to death. God honored Elisha's cry and sent judgement upon them justly. The basic premise is , do not mock God's anointed or prophet . It is a theme that runs through Kings.

But what was said had something to do with cursing the next generation of youth who will be the leaders of the Church . Elisha it seems should have blessed these apostate , menacing youth and even though he was given a double portion of blessing , he failed to use it to pass the torch to these youth . May we not curse our youth but pray they do more then us . WHAT????

Do you see the problem . The text does not in any way go there . It was a just judgement towards a mob of hostile youth against God and His prophet.  But when one wants to make a point and allows there own agenda take over , the word of God becomes puddy in a one mouth to say what one wants it to say.

Is that rightly handling the word ? No it is not. We must be careful and understand that we have no right to inject a meaning into any text just to suit our own schemes or plans . Just like many who cheery pick scripture , which does violence to the context and meaning. I ask that we be like the Bereans who it is said of ,  "Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
(Acts 17:11 ESV)

May we follow their example and listen , read and examine to see if what is being preached and written truly honors God's word and is sound in its interpretation and application.Nuff said.

Some Context Concerning the 95 Theses by Luther

In This short but insightful interview , Dr. Carl Trueman , Professor of Historical Theology and Church History, and Academic Dean, at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia , flushes out a bit  info concerning Luther and the posting of the 95 Theses. Hope its insightful as we move towards Reformation day . 

Luther’s 95 Theses: An Interview with Carl Trueman

How Love Wins (Thief) by Steven Curtis Chapman

Amazing song featuring Steven Curtis Chapman from the album entitled Music Inspired by the Story. A stellar album that weaves the narrative of the Bible. It features Chapman,Mac Powell, Bart Millard , Chris Tomlin,Jeremy Camp etc.. a who's who of Christian music. Excellent album worth getting .

Is it not amazing how the Lord loves us in that while we were still sinners , He died for us . That is how love wins .

Counting Down to Reformation Day

Today we will continue with Luther's 95 Theses . I had a interesting conversation about Luther at Church last week concerning some of his later writings concerning Jews . I won't comment yet but all I will say is all of us hold a better theology than how we live up to that theology.

Anyway we continue.

Martin Luther 95 Theses

11. This changing of the canonical penalty to the penalty of purgatory is quite evidently one of the tares that were sown while the bishops slept.
12. In former times the canonical penalties were imposed not after, but before absolution, as tests of true contrition.
13. The dying are freed by death from all penalties; they are already dead to canonical rules, and have a right to be released from them.
14. The imperfect health [of soul], that is to say, the imperfect love, of the dying brings with it, of necessity, great fear; and the smaller the love, the greater is the fear.
15. This fear and horror is sufficient of itself alone (to say nothing of other things) to constitute the penalty of purgatory, since it is very near to the horror of despair.
16. Hell, purgatory, and heaven seem to differ as do despair, almost-despair, and the assurance of safety.
17. With souls in purgatory it seems necessary that horror should grow less and love increase.
18. It seems unproved, either by reason or Scripture, that they are outside the state of merit, that is to say, of increasing love.
19. Again, it seems unproved that they, or at least that all of them, are certain or assured of their own blessedness, though we may be quite certain of it.
20. Therefore by "full remission of all penalties" the pope means not actually "of all," but only of those imposed by himself.
21. Therefore those preachers of indulgences are in error, who say that by the pope's indulgences a man is freed from every penalty, and saved;
22. Whereas he remits to souls in purgatory no penalty which, according to the canons, they would have had to pay in this life.
23. If it is at all possible to grant to any one the remission of all penalties whatsoever, it is certain that this remission can be granted only to the most perfect, that is, to the very fewest.
24. It must needs be, therefore, that the greater part of the people are deceived by that indiscriminate and highsounding promise of release from penalty.

So Where Would Jesus Go?

When one reads the gospels , you are confronted with the people Jesus interacted with. He is one who associated with the outcast,the sinners , the losers , the poor and the hurting. Those who thought they had it all together or the religious He didn't shun but had His most intense language with.

But Jesus growing up in Nazareth would have been very aware of being poor and considered a outcast. Often its said that Joseph was a carpenter and in today's world , those of us who know a carpenter knows very well from the homes many have , the cars they drive , they are not poor. But in Jesus day a carpenter was just a worker with his hands. Maybe he made chairs,common tools etc... but it had no status or economic advantage. Even the town of Nazareth was insulted , for it seemed to have a bit of a reputation.Much like we would think of a trailer park today.

I often wonder if the Church in the west have lost the understanding the gospel is for all . Not just the upper middle class white families living in fancy subdivisions. The blame for this can be laid at the Church growth movement who began to target certain groups of people. Lets face it , no one is going to be able to build a fancy Church by targeting the poorer sections of a town or city. But I guarantee you , those are the areas that Jesus would be preaching.

I'm not saying that the gospel should have barriers , in fact it should be preached and shared with all . The rich,the poor,the weak,the hurting,the arrogant etc.. We have done a big disservice to the gospel when we break it done to target groups in order to build a Church. I don't see Jesus doing that throughout the Gospels. Nor do I see it in the rest of the New Testament by Paul , Peter , James , John . In fact by succumbing to target groups and programs we show our lack of faith in proclaiming the gospel of Christ.

Jesus often takes us to places we don't like or want to go but know this , we never walk alone. So if He had no blinders on His eyes but preached without prejudice to the poor , the needy which we all are in reality , may we do the same . For do we  follow an amazing Lord.

Wonderful Song from Jason Gray

Gray has a wonderful way with words. This song talks about how wastes no hurt or pain . Is this not true . For even in our weakness, our suffering and even our struggles , He will make beauty out of darkness.

The Reformation Day Draws Near

With the end of Oct drawing close , on the 31st we mark the day that Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to a door , a public billboard and ended up starting a revolution within Christiandom and its the reason when I attend my Baptist church , I'm a protestant. So over the next couple of weeks on any given day , I will feature some info on the reformation and the men who shaped it and thanks to them the gospel of Jesus Christ was recovered .

So to kick it off , I will begin by posting over the next few days all of the 95 theses Dr.Luther famously posted and caused a tidal wave of change. Enjoy.


Martin Luther


Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, the following propositions will be discussed at Wittenberg, under the presidency of the Reverend Father Martin Luther, Master of Arts and of Sacred Theology, and Lecturer in Ordinary on the same at that place. Wherefore he requests that those who are unable to be present and debate orally with us, may do so by letter.
In the Name our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

1. Our Lord and Master Jesus Christ, when He said Poenitentiam agite, willed that the whole life of believers should be repentance.
2. This word cannot be understood to mean sacramental penance, i.e., confession and satisfaction, which is administered by the priests.
3. Yet it means not inward repentance only; nay, there is no inward repentance which does not outwardly work divers mortifications of the flesh.
4. The penalty [of sin], therefore, continues so long as hatred of self continues; for this is the true inward repentance, and continues until our entrance into the kingdom of heaven.
5. The pope does not intend to remit, and cannot remit any penalties other than those which he has imposed either by his own authority or by that of the Canons.
6. The pope cannot remit any guilt, except by declaring that it has been remitted by God and by assenting to God's remission; though, to be sure, he may grant remission in cases reserved to his judgment. If his right to grant remission in such cases were despised, the guilt would remain entirely unforgiven.
7. God remits guilt to no one whom He does not, at the same time, humble in all things and bring into subjection to His vicar, the priest.
8. The penitential canons are imposed only on the living, and, according to them, nothing should be imposed on the dying.
9. Therefore the Holy Spirit in the pope is kind to us, because in his decrees he always makes exception of the article of death and of necessity.
10. Ignorant and wicked are the doings of those priests who, in the case of the dying, reserve canonical penances for purgatory.

Sometimes We Can't See

 I always find it striking when you read through the gospels how the disciples really only saw and listened to what they wanted. Even though the intimate time spent with Jesus and His clear warning that He would have to die , they preferred to see the miracles and embraced the message of the power Messiah . For Jesus was going to restore the glory of Israel and became the greatest King , even over David. Of course that was shattered when Jesus was arrested , tried and crucified.

His closest followers ran scared , lied about knowing Him and wept in shame over what had happened. I can only think some of the tears where as well for thinking , I have given up all and now I will be marked as well. For what ? As well for the shattered hope of Jesus being triumphant over the enemies of Israel .

Sometimes as I have read through the gospels and tried to place myself there , I ask would I have not done the same. For I know my heart and often see how I can easily slip into the same error these men did. I want Jesus on my terms. The one the blesses me and gives me what I want. But when He calls me to enter to Hos sufferings and take up my cross daily , not so much. I want the Jesus that gives me rest but not the one who calls who tells me the world will hate me if I follow Him because it hated Him first.

So even though we have the whole of Scripture and know the rest of the story that the disciples did not , we really are worse in some ways. The disciples of course were transformed . After the resurrection of Jesus and the coming of the Holy Spirit in His fullness , they turned the world upside down. They fully grasped and understood the whole story. A light bublb moment if you will .

We must always do the same. Its so easy and tempting to only hear and see what we want. Cheery picking Christians make very shallow ones. For they fail to see the majesty,wonder and splendor of the whole truth of following Jesus . So may we read the whole story and look to God in all His amazing love and truth . That will help us not get blinders on that makes us see only what we want to see or hear with our ears.

Open Hands

Christians are called to bare fruit in our lives as a clear sign we are truly born again. But when it comes to money , how many are truly free from the allure of the world . To live in this world with open hands means that we will not hold on to money like the world. That the treasure we want to store up is found in heaven . They are good works done in Christ and for God by serving our fellow believers and neighbours .

Yes we need to pay our bills, feed our families etc... but to hoard and to act like the world shows that we have a root in our lives that needs to be pruned. Money is a great tool and gift from God . If we have been blessed with much or little , we all need to look in the mirror to see  if we are clutching on to money like Scrooge prior to his visits from those three faithful ghost.

As James says , what good is our faith if we see a need and just pray and say go your way but we have resources to help in a real tangible way. That is no faith and we deceive ourselves if you can look around at your life and see no compassionate giving , no mercy and no open hands in some real way that impacts another person. It could be family,stranger,friend,charity or a little girl/boy sponsored in some poor country but you should be able to have a check-list of giving . A giving that exults God and honours Jesus.

The question is how can we not when we ponder what God has given to us , His son , Jesus who is our treasure . The more He becomes our treasure then our hands will be open to others freely .

This Movie Never Gets Old

This film was a one that I did not really think I would like. But after viewing years ago , it was instantly one of my all time favourite films. This movie has a little of everything . Its action packed , a love story , a family movie that can be enjoyed with the whole family. So if you haven't seen it , get some popcorn , find a rental place or netflix and get your whole family and enjoy.Pure film magic.

Preaching The Gospel To Yourself

This amazing song by Jason Gray reflects the truth that we are new creations in Christ. That we are hidden in Christ . That our sins are forgiven . May we preach the gospel to ourselves each day. We are being made new. Amen.

To Live is Christ , To Die is Gain

Death is the great equalizer between the poorest of the poor living in the third world and the richest of the rich in the west. No one escapes it, no matter how much one has or possesses , it claims the rich as well as the poor. It comes with no bias .

So as the world awakes tomorrow and commentators speak of the impact Steve Jobs has had on this world , I will leave that to them . I'm not a computer geek kinda of guy , so my knowledge about Jobs is limited but do know that through Apple and I-Tunes , I have been touched by Steve Jobs company and inventions. No question he has had a impact on the world . Some have said a modern day Thomas Edison. Perhaps, but there can be no denying the Apple logo and brand is known the world over.

But death has come to Jobs and my prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends.

I do not presume to know his relationship with Christ . From all accounts he followed a hybrid type of Buddhism and new age thought.

One thing I do know , that even though death will come to all , if your faith is in Jesus Christ , then death is a defeated enemy . It no longer has the sting , the power over you . Christ has made you His own and in the power of His resurrection , you , a sinner , deserving of the wrath of God eternally in hell , are now forgiven through the precious blood of Jesus.

May we say with Paul , " For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better."
(Philippians 1:21-23 ESV)