Anyone who grew up with me knows that school and I did not get along . It wasn't because I was unable to do the work but the bottom line for me , if it doesn't grab me , I just didn't care .Of course it didn't help that I just didn't like very many of the teachers that I had . Plus I still hold that some should have never been allowed in a classroom. A piece of paper does not qualify one to do any job . It should match ones talents and passion as well and then you have a winning combo.
However for all the ones I did not care for, a few really stood out . My grade 2 teacher Mrs.Alport, who was from England. She was a fun teacher who really poured her love for teaching into her classroom. She challenged us ,marked hard but tried to instill a element of fun into each day. When she moved back to England, on the last day of school she hugged all her students and those who had her earlier , made sure they said goodbye.
Then in grade 5 it was Mrs. MacIntyre . She was my one and only teacher crush that I ever had. But besides thinking that she was hot , she was a excellent teacher. I still remember her putting in extra time to help those who struggled and the freedom she gave us in creative writing. Although she always thought my stuff was a bit dark. I even kept in touch with when she moved to British Colombia .
The last teacher was the unique Mr.MacKenzie. He was a hippy , a bit radical but he really made me want to work for him in math. He showed us respect but demanded it back.He was the only teacher in high school that went the extra mile for me . I still recall needing help in grade 9 math . So after school I went to his class and waited for him to the few of us gathered for help. The first thing he did was get us some Pepsi or Cokes and chips . Then for almost an hour and an half he taught while listening to rock music . How cool is that. Then he even drove us home. Plus how could you not like him because a few of the other stuffed shirt staff didn't like him ,and that was the seal of approval for me.
The point of what I'm saying , if one does not have the gift to teach , the passion for what you are teaching then do all the students you have under you and stop . Teaching is a great profession and one I think I should have pursued .Plus having worked as a custodian in 4 schools , I have chatted with many and respect many deeply . One of my best friends is a teacher , so I truly understand the challenges they face each day . So God bless them in a very challenging career.
Verse Of The Day : You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
(John 13:13 ESV)
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Just A Few Thoughts
Just a few random thoughts that have been running in my head over the last couple of days .
How did the Church survive and continue to exist without all the programs,plans and power-points that penetrate most services in the North American Church each Sunday . When was the last time one heard this , you should come to my home Church because it glorifies God by proclaiming clearly the gospel Christ each Sunday. You are more likely to hear , we have this and that program from youth , nursery,seniors,dance,sports etc...on the list could go . I guess I'm old fashioned but I just want the worship to exult God , the word properly preached, with the gospel at the core and the ordinances or sacraments administered regularly.
My son has been involved in a Sociology class in grade 12 . The last unit covered religion and guess which one was picked on the most . Christianity is becoming a dirty word. The myths and misconstrued truths of the faith are accepted because the masses have been swallowing a shallow constant diet of jabs from everyone from British comedians , journalist and scientist who's utter hatred is one display every time they open their mouths . A new day is has dawned and we need to see Canada as just as much a mission field as China or some amazon rain forest.
Why do TV comedies have to have a sexual innuendo every second joke.Tried to watch a show the other night and it seemed 5 seconds could not go by without a crude remark being made. I was reminded of what Paul says of refraining from anything that gives the appearance of evil . I'm not saying to throw the TV out but I just want to be more mindful of what I'm investing my mind with. But then shows like The Road To Avonlea are just as bad with its sanitized, moralistic tripe. Just portray life in a honest way be it comedy or drama. God did give us the gift of artistry in many mediums and even a pagan can still at times show the truth thanks to God's common grace.
Last on my mind is my brothers surgery this Monday. He has a rare seizure disorder that is extremely painful in his face . It effects his talking,eating,thinking when it acts up. In fact it is so painful it is called the suicide disease. Since his medication is no longing working as well as the past , and how it can be utterly life devastating , he has opted for brain surgery to fix it. He is a Christian and therefore I know of his final home , and with any surgery one has to always be honest that no matter how low , problems can happen. With that in mind, join me in prayer that God will guide the hands of the surgeon and he will heal well . May God get the glory in all things .
Verse OF The Day : Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
(John 14:27 ESV)
How did the Church survive and continue to exist without all the programs,plans and power-points that penetrate most services in the North American Church each Sunday . When was the last time one heard this , you should come to my home Church because it glorifies God by proclaiming clearly the gospel Christ each Sunday. You are more likely to hear , we have this and that program from youth , nursery,seniors,dance,sports etc...on the list could go . I guess I'm old fashioned but I just want the worship to exult God , the word properly preached, with the gospel at the core and the ordinances or sacraments administered regularly.
My son has been involved in a Sociology class in grade 12 . The last unit covered religion and guess which one was picked on the most . Christianity is becoming a dirty word. The myths and misconstrued truths of the faith are accepted because the masses have been swallowing a shallow constant diet of jabs from everyone from British comedians , journalist and scientist who's utter hatred is one display every time they open their mouths . A new day is has dawned and we need to see Canada as just as much a mission field as China or some amazon rain forest.
Why do TV comedies have to have a sexual innuendo every second joke.Tried to watch a show the other night and it seemed 5 seconds could not go by without a crude remark being made. I was reminded of what Paul says of refraining from anything that gives the appearance of evil . I'm not saying to throw the TV out but I just want to be more mindful of what I'm investing my mind with. But then shows like The Road To Avonlea are just as bad with its sanitized, moralistic tripe. Just portray life in a honest way be it comedy or drama. God did give us the gift of artistry in many mediums and even a pagan can still at times show the truth thanks to God's common grace.
Last on my mind is my brothers surgery this Monday. He has a rare seizure disorder that is extremely painful in his face . It effects his talking,eating,thinking when it acts up. In fact it is so painful it is called the suicide disease. Since his medication is no longing working as well as the past , and how it can be utterly life devastating , he has opted for brain surgery to fix it. He is a Christian and therefore I know of his final home , and with any surgery one has to always be honest that no matter how low , problems can happen. With that in mind, join me in prayer that God will guide the hands of the surgeon and he will heal well . May God get the glory in all things .
Verse OF The Day : Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
(John 14:27 ESV)
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Prepare Your Heart and Mind to Hear God's Word
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As we gather together on Sunday , may we prepare our hearts and minds to hear the word of God. The preacher is to bring the word to the people.He is not preach himself , his experiences but God's word.He is to preach the word in season and out , if is unpopular with popular culture , if it rubs people the wrong way . Gods word proclaimed is the source in which people come to believe. It points to the word made flesh , Jesus Christ. What an awesome blessing it is to open God's word and hear it preached.
Pray for those faithful Pastor's who labor with reverence to get it right .
Verse Of The Day : I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: [2] preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
(2 Timothy 4:1-2 ESV)
As we gather together on Sunday , may we prepare our hearts and minds to hear the word of God. The preacher is to bring the word to the people.He is not preach himself , his experiences but God's word.He is to preach the word in season and out , if is unpopular with popular culture , if it rubs people the wrong way . Gods word proclaimed is the source in which people come to believe. It points to the word made flesh , Jesus Christ. What an awesome blessing it is to open God's word and hear it preached.
Pray for those faithful Pastor's who labor with reverence to get it right .
Verse Of The Day : I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: [2] preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
(2 Timothy 4:1-2 ESV)
Friday, January 28, 2011
Time For , Drum Roll Please....Catechism Friday
I have been thinking about setting certain days for specific topics and after reading about the lost teaching tool that was Catechizing believers , I decided to start featuring some of the famous Catechisms on Friday. Hold your applause .But the truth is they are neglected treasures . So hope you enjoy .
Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)
This catechism was written by Zacharias Ursinus (1534-1583) and Caspar Olevianus (1536-1584) in Heidelberg, Germany and published in 1563 in German. It was endorsed by the Synod of Dort and embraced by Reformed Churches in many different countries. It is the custom of many churches that use it to explain it from the pulpit every Sunday afternoon, so it is divided into fifty-two sections.
1. Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?
A. That I am not my own,[1] but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death,[2] to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ.[3] He has fully paid for all my sins with His precious blood[4], and has set me free from all the power of the devil.[5] He also preserves me in such a way[6] that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head;[7] indeed, all things must work together for my salvation.[8] Therefore, by His Holy Spirit He also assures me of eternal life[9] and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for Him.
[1] I Cor. 6:19, 20 [2] Rom. 14:7-9. [3] I Cor. 3:23; Tit. 2:14. [4] I Pet. 1:18, 19; I John 1:7; 2:2. [5] John 8:34-36;Heb. 2:14, 15; I John 3:8. [6] John 6:39, 40; 10:27-30; II Thess. 3:3; I Pet. 1:5. [7] Matt. 10:29-31; Luke 21:16-18. [8] Rom. 8:28. [9] Rom. 8:15, 16; II Cor. 1:21, 22; 5:5; Eph. 1:13-14. [10] Rom. 8:14.
Verse Of The Day : For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.”
(Galatians 3:10 ESV)
Pompeii,Wrath and Wake Up!
Tonight on TV they had a show on the last day of Pompeii. The great Roman city was built unknowingly at the foot of a major volcano , Mount Vesuvius. It was a thriving and busy city , unaware of the looming danger right before them.Then in 79 AD , the volcano erupted in apocalyptic proportions.Over the span of 2 days what was once a beautiful city was buried and thousands of men ,women and children were dead. Prior to this event , there was recorded earthquakes but no one was aware of Volcanic activity .We know now that before this tragic event , there would have been tremors , warning signs something was about to occur. But the people would not have had any clue what awaited them.
As I watched this show and how it humanized the events that took place , made me pause and think that they were souls that perished. How many of them had heard the gospel was my next thought. From the digs , there is evidence that a Christian presence was in the city . Some faithful souls knew the gospel of Jesus Christ . Which made me think that although they did not survive the wrath of a volcano , they did not have to face the wrath of God.
But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God's righteous judgment will be revealed.
(Romans 2:5 ESV)
In reality is not the whole world on a time limit. The day of Pompeii will be like a walk in Disney land when the wrath of God is revealed in complete righteousness and holiness.In fact we are storing up wrath for ourselves if we do not repent and trust in Christ who on the cross ,took the wrath due us for our sin. When one does a study of the day of the Lord , you cannot walk away without being shaken. It is terrifying to read about .
So just as I watched a reenactment of Pompeii's destruction and thought of those souls that came into God's hands without the blood of Christ to cover them , it made me want to scream and warn others of the wrath to come. If you knew a major event like this was to take place, would you not tell all to flee. To find shelter in a safe haven.
Perhaps one of the reasons we do not share the gospel is we either do not grasp the magnitude of the wrath of God ,have a deep enough love for our neighbor or we have been under preaching so tepid and lukewarm that we think little of the end of all things.
We need to awaken to the urgency of praying and asking God to open doors. For we do not know when that day will come
[2] For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
(1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 ESV)
Although as Christians we are told by Jesus to be aware , we still will be just as surprised as the citizens in Pompeii. However the difference is we will rejoice at the Lord's coming . We have a warning to share , which we must be urgent with. There is a terrible day of wrath coming but we have the message of hope in Christ to escape that day. May this truth change us and soften our hearts to those who are storing up wrath for themselves on that day.
Verse Of The Day : [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. [18] Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
(John 3:17-18 ESV)
As I watched this show and how it humanized the events that took place , made me pause and think that they were souls that perished. How many of them had heard the gospel was my next thought. From the digs , there is evidence that a Christian presence was in the city . Some faithful souls knew the gospel of Jesus Christ . Which made me think that although they did not survive the wrath of a volcano , they did not have to face the wrath of God.
But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God's righteous judgment will be revealed.
(Romans 2:5 ESV)
In reality is not the whole world on a time limit. The day of Pompeii will be like a walk in Disney land when the wrath of God is revealed in complete righteousness and holiness.In fact we are storing up wrath for ourselves if we do not repent and trust in Christ who on the cross ,took the wrath due us for our sin. When one does a study of the day of the Lord , you cannot walk away without being shaken. It is terrifying to read about .
So just as I watched a reenactment of Pompeii's destruction and thought of those souls that came into God's hands without the blood of Christ to cover them , it made me want to scream and warn others of the wrath to come. If you knew a major event like this was to take place, would you not tell all to flee. To find shelter in a safe haven.
Perhaps one of the reasons we do not share the gospel is we either do not grasp the magnitude of the wrath of God ,have a deep enough love for our neighbor or we have been under preaching so tepid and lukewarm that we think little of the end of all things.
We need to awaken to the urgency of praying and asking God to open doors. For we do not know when that day will come
[2] For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
(1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 ESV)
Although as Christians we are told by Jesus to be aware , we still will be just as surprised as the citizens in Pompeii. However the difference is we will rejoice at the Lord's coming . We have a warning to share , which we must be urgent with. There is a terrible day of wrath coming but we have the message of hope in Christ to escape that day. May this truth change us and soften our hearts to those who are storing up wrath for themselves on that day.
Verse Of The Day : [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. [18] Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
(John 3:17-18 ESV)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Classic Crack Up
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In this classic scene from The Carol Burnett Show , Tim Conway and his antics crack up Harvey Korman. One of the funniest things about the show was one never knew when a cast member was going loose it. Usually it was always Korman working with Conway . Enjoy.
Verse Of The Day : All the days of the afflicted are evil,
but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.
(Proverbs 15:15 ESV)
In this classic scene from The Carol Burnett Show , Tim Conway and his antics crack up Harvey Korman. One of the funniest things about the show was one never knew when a cast member was going loose it. Usually it was always Korman working with Conway . Enjoy.
Verse Of The Day : All the days of the afflicted are evil,
but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.
(Proverbs 15:15 ESV)
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Christianity the Answer
One cannot help where one is born.It is by God's grace you are where you are.If it happens to be a third world country , under a oppressive regime or the affluent west . But one thing is for certain , if you have been blessed to live in the west , you are living in a time of riches . The fact is while I sit in my living room,typing on a laptop ,sipping tea , while I watch a big screen TV would tell about 90% of the world I'm rich .
But in truth under the Canadian guide lines for poverty ,my family lives under the income measurement for poverty. In reality poverty has to be taken in context. Granted the house we live in is a barn in winter(it was so cold yesterday in certain rooms you could see your breath) , however it supplies shelter,has a flushing toilet,clean fresh water.The fact of the matter , in the west you will not find the same type of absolute poverty you find in so many countries.
But why is this so? Why has the west been so blessed that even the poorest of poor ,in general ,are well off if one does a comparison. Its the fact the west has been deeply influenced by Christianity . Yes that dastardly religion that is evil according to the new atheist . Of course they mock it all the while being blessed by the freedoms under Christian thought brings. Ironic is it not.
When the gospel of Jesus Christ impacts a person , it changes the way you see the world around you. You realize that there is a creator , that all humans are have value , we are not just evolved blobs . That women have value and are created in God's image as well. Then once you open the Bible you encounter that your are to love your neighbor , do good unto others as you would have others do unto you ,show mercy,forgiveness , help the poor,the orphan and widow,to protect the weak , to pay a fair wage,to be a giver , not a taker , do not murder and on the list could go.
From education to hospitals , to the ending of slavery, Christians have been at the forefront in history . It even stopped a revolution . When the France was in a bloody revolution , England was under going a revival of faith that many historians believe stopped what could have been a similar fate in England. The gospel radically changes things.
Think about it , why should anyone be altruistic or giving if Darwinism is true.If we are no more than a random group of talking cells , who thanks to mutation and chance , evolved by survival of the fittest , then why should I care if you starve in Africa or China. Why should I care if you are born with a defect and want to see dollars spent over your lifetime to keep you alive . Your inferior DNA junk , if the species is to survive put it down.
Jesus called His followers to be salt and light to a dying and broken ,sin tainted world. At times we have not fulfilled that role as well as we should have .Yes there have been things done that have been awful in the name of Christianity , but the good far out weighs the bad. The bottom line , when God's word is properly read and applied , it will correct and convict those who have done evil in the name of the faith .
So whever there is poverty , injustice ,violence and oppression ,the gospel is the answer . It does something that education and programs can't do , change a dead and sinful heart , who's god is self and awaken it alive to God . That is the power of an encounter with the risen Lord Jesus Christ.
Verse Of The Day : By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
(John 13:35 ESV)
Verse Of The Day : By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
(John 13:35 ESV)
Monday, January 24, 2011
A Wife is a Blessing
One of my all time favorite love songs. Since this is my blog and my thoughts , I just want any who happen to read this little blog know how much my wife has mean't to me over the these 26 years. I cannot imagine not waking each morning next to her. I truly love being with her .
Verse Of The Day :
Proverbs 5:18-19
18Let your fountain be blessed,
and rejoice in the wife of your youth,
19a lovely deer, a graceful doe.
Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight;
and rejoice in the wife of your youth,
19a lovely deer, a graceful doe.
Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight;
be intoxicated always in her love.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Lost For Words
It has been said that a healthy prayer life anchors the soul in our daily walk in this fallen world . There have been a ton of books written on prayer . How to pray more effectively , how to pray with purpose,with power , on and on the list goes. The scripture does tell us to pray without ceasing. Many use the Lords prayer as a template to pray . That is a good place to start .
But if we are truly honest , there are times we are at a loss . We simply do not have a heart to pray. We seem to go through the motions and it seems tiresome. It lacks any sense of depth,urgency,affection or purpose. We lament our lack of passion in our prayers . We struggle sometimes in even knowing what to say . For we struggle to pray for what God wills .
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
(Romans 8:26 ESV)
In those seasons this passage is such a comfort . The Holy Spirit knowing our weakness ,our inability at times to know what to pray , intercedes on our behalf. He knows us , He understands our state and knowing the Fathers will perfectly for us , does the job perfectly for us . So when we are off , or struggling with what to say , trust that the Holy Spirit is in your corner . What a blessing and great encouragement this truth is.
Verse Of The Day : Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. [24] He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
(1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ESV)
But if we are truly honest , there are times we are at a loss . We simply do not have a heart to pray. We seem to go through the motions and it seems tiresome. It lacks any sense of depth,urgency,affection or purpose. We lament our lack of passion in our prayers . We struggle sometimes in even knowing what to say . For we struggle to pray for what God wills .
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
(Romans 8:26 ESV)
In those seasons this passage is such a comfort . The Holy Spirit knowing our weakness ,our inability at times to know what to pray , intercedes on our behalf. He knows us , He understands our state and knowing the Fathers will perfectly for us , does the job perfectly for us . So when we are off , or struggling with what to say , trust that the Holy Spirit is in your corner . What a blessing and great encouragement this truth is.
Verse Of The Day : Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. [24] He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
(1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ESV)
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The Getty's Get It Right
This song is simply the way new hymns should be written .It is full of depth and will be sung for a long time .
May this song help prepare your heart and mind for worship .
Verse Of The Day : but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 ESV)
Friday, January 21, 2011
A Great Western , Truly Grittier
I will not go into the story because the trailer gives it away and if you have seen the Wayne version , its basically a tale revenge . But the biggest difference was the use of the Bible , the talk of providence and unlike the first one , this one truly showed that pursuing vengeance can take a real toll. The characters were deeper , more serious in tone and showed a real element of what the wild west was like .
This was a wonderful surprise .Plus the use of a religious theme that penetrated the whole movie was a welcome surprise as well . This in one I will gladly purchase and place next to the Dukes version.
Verse Of The Day : Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
(Romans 12:19 ESV)
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Brain , Faith and Bubblegum Diplomas
With the rise of the the more belligerent form of atheism , one of the cat calls coming from their camp has been more or less , if you have a brain and use it , then you cannot believe in the God of the Bible. If you listen to these men and the more public mockers like Bill Mahar,then you would think that anyone who preaches and teaches the Bible is God's word , must have gotten their education from a bubble gum machine.
16] For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
(2 Peter 1:16 ESV)
Its not like this type of opposition is new . Peter in his letter assures believers that what they have been told are not cleverly devised myths but that they behold the truth of Jesus Christ with their own eyes . The charge leveled against Christians is that we follow a myth but in truth , from the time of the death of Christ ,to the emerging of the Church and the earliest gospels and epistles, not enough time went by to allow for the development of myth of Jesus. Plus reading the accounts in the gospels and the plain nature of them compared to real myths, and the difference is striking. So even back in Peter's day , mockers of the truth of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ were in full force.
But Peter after saying he was an eyewitness , tells us we have something even better , the word of God.
[19] And we have something more sure, the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, [20] knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
(2 Peter 1:19-21 ESV)
The best defense we have against the attacks and accusations that we are just not that bright , is opening up the word of God. Apologetics and defending the faith is important ,but sharing the gospel is the only thing that will awaken a dead sinner. The mind is hostile against God (Romans 8:7) .We are all dead in trespasses and sins.So when debating someone who has been influenced by the new atheistic rants, we need to be aware that we can point to many brilliant men and women in the past, and today from all disciplines, including science ,who trust the Bible and believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We can present counter arguments but evidences alone will never save . It is the word of God that the Holy Spirit will take and awaken the dead sinners heart to their need to repent and trust in Christ.
Belief in God , who has given us His word that we may know Him , is not a call to check our brain in the dumb dock , but to truly engage our minds.
Just a brief list of Bible believing idiots ,past and present. Blaise Pascal,Copernicus,Francis Bacon,Johannes Kepler, Galileo,Louis Pasteur,Lord Kelvin,Max Planck,John Lennox,Edgar Andrews,Stephen B Meyers . Then what do you make of contemporary theologians like James White,RC Sproul,D.A Carson,Alvin Plantinga ,Ravi Zacharius ,John Frame,Michael Horton . Well you get my point .
Verse Of The Day : And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
(Matthew 22:37 ESV)
16] For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
(2 Peter 1:16 ESV)
Its not like this type of opposition is new . Peter in his letter assures believers that what they have been told are not cleverly devised myths but that they behold the truth of Jesus Christ with their own eyes . The charge leveled against Christians is that we follow a myth but in truth , from the time of the death of Christ ,to the emerging of the Church and the earliest gospels and epistles, not enough time went by to allow for the development of myth of Jesus. Plus reading the accounts in the gospels and the plain nature of them compared to real myths, and the difference is striking. So even back in Peter's day , mockers of the truth of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ were in full force.
But Peter after saying he was an eyewitness , tells us we have something even better , the word of God.
[19] And we have something more sure, the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, [20] knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. [21] For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
(2 Peter 1:19-21 ESV)
The best defense we have against the attacks and accusations that we are just not that bright , is opening up the word of God. Apologetics and defending the faith is important ,but sharing the gospel is the only thing that will awaken a dead sinner. The mind is hostile against God (Romans 8:7) .We are all dead in trespasses and sins.So when debating someone who has been influenced by the new atheistic rants, we need to be aware that we can point to many brilliant men and women in the past, and today from all disciplines, including science ,who trust the Bible and believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We can present counter arguments but evidences alone will never save . It is the word of God that the Holy Spirit will take and awaken the dead sinners heart to their need to repent and trust in Christ.
Belief in God , who has given us His word that we may know Him , is not a call to check our brain in the dumb dock , but to truly engage our minds.
Just a brief list of Bible believing idiots ,past and present. Blaise Pascal,Copernicus,Francis Bacon,Johannes Kepler, Galileo,Louis Pasteur,Lord Kelvin,Max Planck,John Lennox,Edgar Andrews,Stephen B Meyers . Then what do you make of contemporary theologians like James White,RC Sproul,D.A Carson,Alvin Plantinga ,Ravi Zacharius ,John Frame,Michael Horton . Well you get my point .
Verse Of The Day : And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
(Matthew 22:37 ESV)
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
What Was I Thinking
Had a few of these toys and I loved them . Looking back on all the cool stuff I had as a kid , I shake my head about not keeping so many of them . From my comic books,records, to G.I Joe and so many really cool collections , I had a sweet "geeks" collection. I did lose some stuff when my Grandfathers house was lost to fire, but I gave away and sold off the rest. I regret it to the max .
So word up , its one thing to grow up , but by giving up so many things that truly meant much to me , thinking that I was all grown up now ,was actually stupid. So my Lord of Rings toys are going no where ! Maybe its my second childhood.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Worship Songs and Men
Matt Redman makes an excellent point in this brief interview.How often I have set in Church and heard absolutely horrid worship songs that you cannot tell if the song is about the Lord or a girlfriend.Worship leaders and songwriters need to become more steeped in doctrine and the grand truths of scripture.
I'm not saying all the old songs are great but the great hymns of the past that have stood the test of time are richer,deeper and need to be rediscovered by our youth. Plus they are more manly .
Verse Of The Day : Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;
worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.
(Psalm 29:2 ESV)
Monday, January 17, 2011
The Profane and Freedom
Recently a popular song by a well known band came under fire for its use of the word faggot . In all honesty I don't like the word . Its use in the song, if taken in context , you get who the artist are poking fun at and its not homosexuals. But it offended someone , who in turn filed a complaint and was deemed offensive . It either has to be edited or not played. For the gay community it is deemed a profane word , offensive . I can understand that reaction. Even though as a Bible believing Christian who holds that homosexuality is sin , just like fornication,murder,adultery etc... , all forgiven if one repents and walks in trust with Christ daily , it still is a word that is meant to invoke hatred and harm.We are all sinners , but still bearing the image of God .
But at the same time , if we are to be free and have a real honest exchange of ideas and world views , the use of words even in a negative sense , should not be censored. The cost of freedom comes with the real possibility of being offended. If you don't like the song because of its word , don't listen to it . Shut it off or get thicker skin.
As a Christian , I cannot go anywhere without listening to some one profane my Lord's name . Just yesterday while getting oil , a clerk drops a paper and what came out of her mouth . In the coffee shops ,grocery stores ,at restaurants it is constant. Am I offended yes , that they would so casually use Jesus Christ as a curse word . But lets not stop there . From movies to TV , music to books , the Christian faith is mocked , blasphemed and if you don't believe me , just do a little research . Rock artist have a long history of poking fun at God and Christians . In the metal genre , if you want to read hate literature against Christ and the church , its not hard to find. So I understand the offense. But I will not push for censorship in the courts but in the court of the heart and mind.
Each person born has a inherit dignity because we bare the image of God. Broken and sin stained , dead in trespasses and sins , yes , but we in a general sense, are all God's image bearers. So to willfully insult or tear someone down , I believe is a direct attack on God. Now we can disagree with each other passionately concerning religion and morality , but at the same time withhold personal insults and ad hominem attacks.
[21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
(Romans 12:21 ESV)
In attacks of speech ,we must overcome the abuse not by stooping to the same level and return the insults or slander but with argumentation that is smart and articulate . Its a dangerous slope to begin to ban certain words. Plus who is to say what should be banned ? To remove words or limit free speech is a scary thing. One may not agree with certain words,slogans,opinions or movements but book burning , song banning and limiting debate on any issue ,shows a society moving towards a State controlled society . That scares me. Plus I find those who have a weak position tend to be the ones wanting censorship or limit debate.
Verse Of The Day : See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.
(1 Thessalonians 5:15 ESV)
But at the same time , if we are to be free and have a real honest exchange of ideas and world views , the use of words even in a negative sense , should not be censored. The cost of freedom comes with the real possibility of being offended. If you don't like the song because of its word , don't listen to it . Shut it off or get thicker skin.
As a Christian , I cannot go anywhere without listening to some one profane my Lord's name . Just yesterday while getting oil , a clerk drops a paper and what came out of her mouth . In the coffee shops ,grocery stores ,at restaurants it is constant. Am I offended yes , that they would so casually use Jesus Christ as a curse word . But lets not stop there . From movies to TV , music to books , the Christian faith is mocked , blasphemed and if you don't believe me , just do a little research . Rock artist have a long history of poking fun at God and Christians . In the metal genre , if you want to read hate literature against Christ and the church , its not hard to find. So I understand the offense. But I will not push for censorship in the courts but in the court of the heart and mind.
Each person born has a inherit dignity because we bare the image of God. Broken and sin stained , dead in trespasses and sins , yes , but we in a general sense, are all God's image bearers. So to willfully insult or tear someone down , I believe is a direct attack on God. Now we can disagree with each other passionately concerning religion and morality , but at the same time withhold personal insults and ad hominem attacks.
[21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
(Romans 12:21 ESV)
In attacks of speech ,we must overcome the abuse not by stooping to the same level and return the insults or slander but with argumentation that is smart and articulate . Its a dangerous slope to begin to ban certain words. Plus who is to say what should be banned ? To remove words or limit free speech is a scary thing. One may not agree with certain words,slogans,opinions or movements but book burning , song banning and limiting debate on any issue ,shows a society moving towards a State controlled society . That scares me. Plus I find those who have a weak position tend to be the ones wanting censorship or limit debate.
Verse Of The Day : See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.
(1 Thessalonians 5:15 ESV)
Sunday, January 16, 2011
By Faith
Hope your worship was full of grace and truth . That God was glorified , the gospel preached , Jesus exulted and that the Holy Spirit blessed you . Grace and peace .
Verse Of The Day : For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
(Romans 3:28 ESV)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Are You Thankful for All Things
Its so easy to be thankful and praise God when money flows, the body is full of health and success seems to be running on your street, But what occurs when disease upsets the body , when you fail and fall , receiving the discipline of the Lord or your job is gone .Can you cry out to God and thank Him for bringing both a loving Fathers hand to discipline you or a trial to sharpen you?
If we cling only to this earth ,then we will not be able to grasp the bigger picture . God will use whatever He ordains for His glory and for the best for His sheep. But lets be honest ,it is hard to fathom at times. We cannot see beyond the forest , but God knows what lies beyond . Even when we are left speechless, may we trust in Him who is trustworthy.
Verse Of The Day : And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?
“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,
nor be weary when reproved by him.
For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and chastises every son whom he receives.”
It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?
(Hebrews 12:5,6-7 ESV)
Friday, January 14, 2011
Doctrinal Books Are Devotionals
B. B. Warfield:
The lion of Princeton , the great theologian B.B Warfield hits the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned. Prayer is a vital component of a healthy walk with God , but unless you know God , His work ,His ways and comprehend what Jesus Christ has done for you , your prayer life will be anemic .
The point of the quote is , learning of God is not something that you stick you head in the sand of devotionals , read a brief little life quote and walk away knowing God. I still recall after first becoming a Christian and picking up the Daily Bread . A hugely popular devotional . Hoping for some food to feast on about God , Christ ,the cross etc... what I got was not even pablum . It was so empty of any substance that it was giving a man dying of thirst a thimble for drink.
Apart from the Bible , I have found reading doctrinal books not only educational but soul stirring and a heart delight to inspire devotion and prayer.The first real introduction I had to a doctrinal book was Knowing God by J.I Packer . It touched on God's character . the gospel,the sovereignty of God in salvation etc.. From there I have moved on to books on the works of grace , the substitutionary atonement of Christ,Justification and numerous others that have greatly helped me dig deeper into the word.
That is why I'm so excited to anticipate the release of Michale Horton's Systematic Theology , The Christian Faith : A Systematic Theology For Pilgrims on the Way . Horton's books have greatly shaped my understanding of the faith . His writing is reformed , solid biblically and so well written that it truly stirs my heart to want to know the Bible better , and therefore God better. I only own two other books one would call systematic theologies ,one by the late Dr.James Boice called Foundations of the Christian Faith and being a Calvinist , John Calvin's Institutes . So needless to say , I look forward to using this book along with Boice's and Calvin's to deepen my knowledge of God.
So for me doctrinal books are my devotionals. They feed the soul . Too many people seem to be intimidated by the word doctrine , but real theologians write to feed the sheep , not sit in ivory towers stirring at their intellectual belly lint.
Side-note : The daily Bread is a daily dud but one devotional has depth, real meat to chew on and solid articles to challenge you and that is Table Talk , a ministry by RC Sproul. Get it , Now !
Verse Of The Day : He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. (Titus 1:9 ESV)
Sometimes we hear it said that ten minutes on your knees will give you a truer, deeper, more operative knowledge of God than ten hours over your books. What! Than ten hours over your books on your knees?”
The lion of Princeton , the great theologian B.B Warfield hits the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned. Prayer is a vital component of a healthy walk with God , but unless you know God , His work ,His ways and comprehend what Jesus Christ has done for you , your prayer life will be anemic .
The point of the quote is , learning of God is not something that you stick you head in the sand of devotionals , read a brief little life quote and walk away knowing God. I still recall after first becoming a Christian and picking up the Daily Bread . A hugely popular devotional . Hoping for some food to feast on about God , Christ ,the cross etc... what I got was not even pablum . It was so empty of any substance that it was giving a man dying of thirst a thimble for drink.
Apart from the Bible , I have found reading doctrinal books not only educational but soul stirring and a heart delight to inspire devotion and prayer.The first real introduction I had to a doctrinal book was Knowing God by J.I Packer . It touched on God's character . the gospel,the sovereignty of God in salvation etc.. From there I have moved on to books on the works of grace , the substitutionary atonement of Christ,Justification and numerous others that have greatly helped me dig deeper into the word.
That is why I'm so excited to anticipate the release of Michale Horton's Systematic Theology , The Christian Faith : A Systematic Theology For Pilgrims on the Way . Horton's books have greatly shaped my understanding of the faith . His writing is reformed , solid biblically and so well written that it truly stirs my heart to want to know the Bible better , and therefore God better. I only own two other books one would call systematic theologies ,one by the late Dr.James Boice called Foundations of the Christian Faith and being a Calvinist , John Calvin's Institutes . So needless to say , I look forward to using this book along with Boice's and Calvin's to deepen my knowledge of God.
So for me doctrinal books are my devotionals. They feed the soul . Too many people seem to be intimidated by the word doctrine , but real theologians write to feed the sheep , not sit in ivory towers stirring at their intellectual belly lint.
Side-note : The daily Bread is a daily dud but one devotional has depth, real meat to chew on and solid articles to challenge you and that is Table Talk , a ministry by RC Sproul. Get it , Now !
Verse Of The Day : He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. (Titus 1:9 ESV)
Thursday, January 13, 2011
May We Stand Prepared
What this triggered in me was a reminder that we should never forget that Satan and his demons are real . In the west perhaps due to how advanced we think we are , belief in the devil seems to have been placed in the forgotten box. But the Bible clearly portrays him as a real enemy to God , the gospel and Christians. The world ,the flesh and the Devil are all our enemies . But for some reason in that unholy trinity , Satan seems at times to be the quiet partner.
[8] Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
(1 Peter 5:8 ESV)
We need to awaken the reality that he is our adversary . We may never encounter him personally in a spiritual attack for he is not omnipresent , but his demons and in worldly influence we may. It is a real threat and real danger . To be sober-minded is to realize we have an enemy and discern his ways so that we resist him .
[7] Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
(James 4:7 ESV)
We must call on God , draw near to Him and in His strength ,and do battle. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness , each time He used the word of God to respond to the Devils attacks. The word of God is our weapon ,our sword to repel the Devil . May we remember when Jesus was crucified , died and rose again , Satan has been given a death blow . His time is short ,he knows his destiny and may we stand firm in the power of the gospel , in Jesus and be courageous . Drawing near the Lord , He will not leave us unable but will be our protector and victor.
Verse Of The Day : [11] Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. [12] For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. EPHESIANS 6:11-13
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Storms and Hot Chocolate !
It has been said many times before and will again , but life is full of storms that wage against the soul . From the moment of birth , life is a real struggle . It is a hard world , full of broken dreams, pain and tears. Yes it is mingled with much joy,laughter and successes but it is the times of distress that we truly want a safe place to go , a shelter against the storm . Living in a broken and sinful world , we need to first deal with the storm within first.
We know a storm of sin wages inside our hearts. Our conscious condemns us and the law of God comes like a hurricane to convict us that before a holy God , we stand in the storm of His wrath . Our destination is straight to the never ceasing winds of hell . For our cosmic rebellion . But the good news the coming storm of God's wrath can be calmed and has been. On calvary's tree , on the cross ,Jesus the perfect lamb ,took all the wrath so that we may have the peace of forgiveness and reconciliation. His call is for us to repent , believe and follow . Trusting in His life ,death and resurrection.
Second ,when we have peace with God ,we become beneficiaries of having a loving Father in heaven we can cry out in times of trouble. The promise of Jesus that all who came to Him will be given rest . If we are weary , broken and worn form our earthly toil , Jesus calls us to rest in Him. He will give us peace and rest. Not that we will have no pain ,suffering or an ever flowing flow of cash but what will happen , our desires and will be changed so that we will see this life as a gift to glorify God in all that comes our way . If we see this life in perspective in light of eternity , as Paul says , then our present toils seem as nothing.
I admit I have struggled at times to take God at His word and for that I need to confess , repent and trust in the promises of God's word . He is our refuge and will ever be . I guess that is one of the reasons the Holy Spirit is called the comforter . Now for some more hot chocolate and the Pilgrims Progress.
Verse Of The Day : There will be a booth for shade by day from the heat, and for a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain.
(Isaiah 4:6 ESV)
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Their Blood Cries Out
When one thinks of a martyr for the faith , most Christians in general think of those long ago . Perhaps those who died under Roman rule or even up to the reformation time frame. In reality those who who have been put to death for their faith in Jesus Christ in the last 100 or so years ,outnumber all the martyrs of the past 1900 years.
In the west , we have been blessed with a free and open democratic society , the product of Christian influence . For over 100 years we have lived in relative safety . The rest of the world in the east is a different story . From China to the middle east , Christians have been imprisoned , tortured and killed because of their allegiance to the Saviour , Jesus Christ. To openly share the gospel , possess a Bible and assemble to worship ,can openly leave one a target .
If you want to read a moving account of those killed for their faith , go to http://www.challies.com and read the story of John and Betty Stam . It is a story that will leave you in tears and praise at the same time .
After I read their story , it made me wonder about me . If I was placed in a situation that to openly proclaim Christ would mean persecution and possible death , what would I do? I don't think we need to seek it , as Paul reminds us that if possible , live in peace but at the same time a society can turn to the point that just sharing the gospel will be hated and despised. Read the stories of missionaries who even though they were helping feed the poor and needy , were killed solely because they were Christian.
I hope and pray that if ever faced with that day , I would honor my Lord , who gave His life that I might have life. Christians need not fear the sword for nothing can separate from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus .
For now God is allowing it to occur . Sometimes we cannot understand but there is coming a day when the day of grace is over .
Revelation 6:9-11
[9] When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. [10] They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” [11] Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been.
Those who have killed the Lord's sheep ,will face a day and on that day they will wish they have never been born . As the martyrs cry out to the Lord , when will you avenge our blood , they are promised that day will come but for now they rest before His throne. A day of reckoning is coming when Jesus Christ comes again in all His holy wrath against those who oppose Him and have harmed His sheep. Till then we need to remain faithful , pray for those in countries where the persecution is happening and support them in whatever ways we can. May we stand firm with them , sharing the gospel with those who are their persecutors. May we not forget our brother and sisters who are in peril . To our shame if we do.
Verse Of The Day : I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33 ESV)
Monday, January 10, 2011
Miscellaneous Monday
Another crazy shoots people in Arizona . The news has been playing every angle and some from a very biased blind spot .Bottom line ,said individual was a disturbed , mentally unstable person . A ticking time bomb of many messed up ideologies. But the part that disturbed me was that he could face the death penalty because he murdered a Federal Judge in the shootings .
Now I believe in the death penalty and hold that officials need to be protected but a judge or a police officer's life is no more valuable than any person murdered by a heinous person. The little girl killed by this madman has just as much value as a judge . If this person is found to be mentally competent , knowing right from wrong , then he deserves the death penalty for his reckless disdain of life by killing all those poor victims , all baring the image of God. Sickening and a clear example of a fallen and depraved world .
The average student coming out of University in Canada will owe between 30,000 dollars and beyond. It has risen at a ridiculous amount over the last 30 years .My generation(I'm 47) could get an under grad and come out with maybe 9000 in debt . Today unless the parents can afford a good chunk of change , it can easily top 40000. The expense of getting a good education is putting a huge burden of many trying to get started with thier lives. It doesn't help that text books are outrageously expensive.
My oldest son recently had to order two books that he needed for his business degree. The total cost , 1100 bucks . These books will hopefully pay off , enabling him earn more money but the bottom line , they are ridiculously over priced. For one , they are soft cover , printed on standard paper and have a combined page count under a 1000. They don't even come with a slip cover or special stands to display thier awesomeness. Bad enough young men and women are getting fleeced at tuition , but its criminal the books that they need cost . If I didn't know better , I would say the mafia is in charge .
I have been reading through Pilgrim's Progress again . It is the new edition released by Crossway last year . It is beautifully done . What the Editors have done was tweak what Bunyan masterfully wrote back in the the 1600 hundreds during his imprisonment and released in 1678 . They modernized some of the English phrases that would be awkward today but maintaining the beauty of what Bunyan wrote. It seems fresh and I'm throughly enjoying reading of Christians pilgrimage from the City of destruction to the Celestial City . Plus it features new art wonderfully done by Mike Wimmer. Highly recommend it.
Verse For The Day: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13 ESV)
Now I believe in the death penalty and hold that officials need to be protected but a judge or a police officer's life is no more valuable than any person murdered by a heinous person. The little girl killed by this madman has just as much value as a judge . If this person is found to be mentally competent , knowing right from wrong , then he deserves the death penalty for his reckless disdain of life by killing all those poor victims , all baring the image of God. Sickening and a clear example of a fallen and depraved world .
The average student coming out of University in Canada will owe between 30,000 dollars and beyond. It has risen at a ridiculous amount over the last 30 years .My generation(I'm 47) could get an under grad and come out with maybe 9000 in debt . Today unless the parents can afford a good chunk of change , it can easily top 40000. The expense of getting a good education is putting a huge burden of many trying to get started with thier lives. It doesn't help that text books are outrageously expensive.
My oldest son recently had to order two books that he needed for his business degree. The total cost , 1100 bucks . These books will hopefully pay off , enabling him earn more money but the bottom line , they are ridiculously over priced. For one , they are soft cover , printed on standard paper and have a combined page count under a 1000. They don't even come with a slip cover or special stands to display thier awesomeness. Bad enough young men and women are getting fleeced at tuition , but its criminal the books that they need cost . If I didn't know better , I would say the mafia is in charge .
 |
| Christian fleeing the City of Destruction |
Verse For The Day: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13 ESV)
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Must Be My Irish Blood
Certain songs always come into my mind when I'm reflecting on life or just thinking about the past . John Denver was always one of my favorite artist growing up . Even when I embraced heavy rock from Zepplin to Iron Maiden , there would be John Denver . His songs just spoke to my heart .
Plus when Dr.James White , one of my favorite reformed baptist theologians , list John Denver as one of his favorite artist , well that seals it.
Today was a strange one . I spent time in quiet thought over many things . How thankful and blessed I'm and sad at the same time thinking of those I can no longer talk to and see . My wife tells me my mood or happy/sad at the same time come from my Irish roots so who am I to argue . So John's song pretty much summed up my head space today.
John Denver -Looking For Space
On the road of experience
I’m trying to find my own way
Sometimes I wish that I could fly away
When I think that I’m moving
Suddenly things stand still
I’m afraid ‘cause I think they always will
And I’m looking for space
And to find out who I am
And I’m looking to know and understand
It’s a sweet sweet dream
Sometimes I’m almost there
Sometimes I fly like an eagle and
Sometimes I’m deep in despair
All alone in the universe
Sometimes that’s how it seems
I get lost in the sadness and the screams
Then I look in the centre
Suddenly everything’s clear
I find myself in the sunshine and my dreams
And I’m looking for space
And to find out who I am
And I’m looking to know and understand
It’s a sweet sweet dream
Sometimes I’m almost there
Sometimes I fly like an eagle and
Sometimes I’m deep in despair
On the road of experience
Join in the living day
If there’s an answer
It’s just that it’s just that way
When you’re looking for space
And to find out who you are
When you’re looking to try and reach the stars
It’s a sweet sweet sweet dream
Sometimes I’m almost there
Sometimes I fly like an eagle and
Sometimes I’m deep in despair
Sometimes I fly like an eagle
Like an eagle, I go flying high, ooh
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Hopelessness
Watched an excellent movie called My Boy Jack . Based on the true events of Jack Kipling enlisting and. death in WW1 . Based on the poem of his famous father Rudyard Kipling , author of books such a The Jungle Book and Gunga Din. It was brought to life by British actor David Haig , who wrote a play based on the poem . It was a one man production but in 2008 was adapted to film by Haig.
It is wonderfully done and a very moving piece of the tragedy and cost of war . If you get a chance to watch the movie do so .
What I found fascinating was the feature after the show . The actors that were involved spoke of making the film and gave commentary as well . But one comment made by Haig jumped out at me. Haig speaking about the death of Kipling's son and thousands of other young men in that war , and other wars ,reflected on how it truly impacts a community. That with each death the family is devastated. Then he mentioned , that with those without any faith or religious beliefs , it must be a feeling of utter hopelessness. The person that you loved is gone forever , off into oblivion .
The honesty to say hopelessness was so refreshing . Most who hold even atheistic beliefs will talk of death as if its somehow purposeful . That we can keep them alive in our hearts nonsense. But as Haig said in the segment , it must in truth lead to a hopeless agony. Apart from a faith in God and an afterlife , death in war or in any sense must lead to despair if one is truthful .
But the gospel invades this despair with hope and peace.Telling us there is more . Jesus Christ is our life giver. When He stood outside the tomb of Lazarus and called out for him to rise , He showed His power over death . Telling Mary and Martha , “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
(John 11:25-26 ESV) Jesus defeated sin,death and hell on the cross and opened the doors of heaven , rising from the dead.
That is the hope available to all who will acknowledge their sinfulness, repent and trust in Jesus . This the only true hope of all . I cannot even fathom living without this hope. Many do . So if we have this hope , should we not share it .
It is wonderfully done and a very moving piece of the tragedy and cost of war . If you get a chance to watch the movie do so .
What I found fascinating was the feature after the show . The actors that were involved spoke of making the film and gave commentary as well . But one comment made by Haig jumped out at me. Haig speaking about the death of Kipling's son and thousands of other young men in that war , and other wars ,reflected on how it truly impacts a community. That with each death the family is devastated. Then he mentioned , that with those without any faith or religious beliefs , it must be a feeling of utter hopelessness. The person that you loved is gone forever , off into oblivion .
The honesty to say hopelessness was so refreshing . Most who hold even atheistic beliefs will talk of death as if its somehow purposeful . That we can keep them alive in our hearts nonsense. But as Haig said in the segment , it must in truth lead to a hopeless agony. Apart from a faith in God and an afterlife , death in war or in any sense must lead to despair if one is truthful .
But the gospel invades this despair with hope and peace.Telling us there is more . Jesus Christ is our life giver. When He stood outside the tomb of Lazarus and called out for him to rise , He showed His power over death . Telling Mary and Martha , “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
(John 11:25-26 ESV) Jesus defeated sin,death and hell on the cross and opened the doors of heaven , rising from the dead.
That is the hope available to all who will acknowledge their sinfulness, repent and trust in Jesus . This the only true hope of all . I cannot even fathom living without this hope. Many do . So if we have this hope , should we not share it .
Friday, January 7, 2011
One of My Fav Magnum P.I Scenes
Magnum PI was one of my all time favorite TV shows. It had action,great chemistry between the actors , some comedic elements and some very gripping scenes.
The one featured is one . Magnum confronts Ivan and after asking the question about the sunrise , blows Ivan away . He had tried to kill Magnum but ended up killing his friend Mac. It just goes against the PC correct ending many would expect. Sometimes when dealing with evil , deadly force is needed . When I first watched it , I knew Magnum would not let Ivan walk away without paying for his evil deed.
Would I do this if in a situation similar ? If you know me , I guarantee you know that answer .
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Odds,Ends and Around The Bends
By now unless you are living under a big rock , you have heard or see the story of Ted Williams. He is a homeless man for Columbus ,Ohio. Panhandling on a busy corner with a sign saying he has a been blessed with a golden voice and would be grateful for any help . He has fallen into hard times due to drug addiction and had lost his job as announcer years ago , but is now apparently 2 years clean and sober . A local reporter featured the story , the video went viraland has now over 11 million hits. Since then its been a whirlwind for this man . He has been on TV , radio and has been offered numerous jobs for voice over work .
This is a feel good story . This man is going to be given a second chance after , by his own admission, making many mistakes and falling down. How many people do you know have made mistakes or sins , fallen down and now they need a hand to lift them to their feet . Not a handout but a chance to reboot their lives . If your a Christian , you have to believe in a fresh start and new beginning because you get one every day. God is a forgiving and loving God who in Christ , has supplied His grace and mercy to you by dong everything for us . I really hope and pray this man reboots, renews and stands firm in the chance God has given him . I will pray that he will not be tempted back into drugs or alcohol.
[22] The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
[23] they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
(Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
Second on my Odds and ends list is the collapse of Canada at the world junior hockey championship in Buffalo against the Russians . Taking a 3-0 lead into the third period , the Russians exploded for 5 unanswered goals and dominated the play. As disappointed as they must have been , labeling chokers as has been said is harsh. I'm sure they tried , its not like they intentionally wanted to let 5 unanswered goals in. Sometimes no matter how hard one tries or works at it , winning , running a succesful buiness or landing that great job just doesn't come true. So they lost ,get over it. Its hockey , not Armageddon.
I will end with this what is a real attack on the Christian faith . Out west pamphlet were being spread around saying that God raped Mary . A clear and ignorant attack of Mary being conceived by the Holy Spirit. These type of juvenile attacks will be more frequent . Buoyed by the brashness of Hitchens and Dawkins , these type of assaults will increase. Now I do not mind if you want to argue against Christianity , but at the very least argue with an understanding of what your talking about . I do not fear healthy debate because God's truth will prevail .However we better be ready for these type of attacks . May we react with clarity and be clear in our gospel presentation.
This is a feel good story . This man is going to be given a second chance after , by his own admission, making many mistakes and falling down. How many people do you know have made mistakes or sins , fallen down and now they need a hand to lift them to their feet . Not a handout but a chance to reboot their lives . If your a Christian , you have to believe in a fresh start and new beginning because you get one every day. God is a forgiving and loving God who in Christ , has supplied His grace and mercy to you by dong everything for us . I really hope and pray this man reboots, renews and stands firm in the chance God has given him . I will pray that he will not be tempted back into drugs or alcohol.
[22] The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
[23] they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
(Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
Second on my Odds and ends list is the collapse of Canada at the world junior hockey championship in Buffalo against the Russians . Taking a 3-0 lead into the third period , the Russians exploded for 5 unanswered goals and dominated the play. As disappointed as they must have been , labeling chokers as has been said is harsh. I'm sure they tried , its not like they intentionally wanted to let 5 unanswered goals in. Sometimes no matter how hard one tries or works at it , winning , running a succesful buiness or landing that great job just doesn't come true. So they lost ,get over it. Its hockey , not Armageddon.
I will end with this what is a real attack on the Christian faith . Out west pamphlet were being spread around saying that God raped Mary . A clear and ignorant attack of Mary being conceived by the Holy Spirit. These type of juvenile attacks will be more frequent . Buoyed by the brashness of Hitchens and Dawkins , these type of assaults will increase. Now I do not mind if you want to argue against Christianity , but at the very least argue with an understanding of what your talking about . I do not fear healthy debate because God's truth will prevail .However we better be ready for these type of attacks . May we react with clarity and be clear in our gospel presentation.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
What I Have is Not My Own
Currently I'm not employed in any formal sense of the word . I do not rise and put on a suit or uniform , clock in and clock out . I have looked for work and tried to become self employed but so far that has had mixed results. Plus if another person asks me what I do during the day , I may just decide to write it down what I do . My day is full . From offering counsel to my sons and their friends , to making sure my wife is able to continue in her career ,one that she loves . I guess one could say I'm the house manager of sorts .
Would I like to find a place to be employed , that I could plant time and work well till at least I'm 65 (18 years Lord willing) of course. My body is not going to be able to do certain jobs anymore and I have accepted that. Plus I will not jump into any job , did that in the past too many times and it was a mistake. No this time I'm trying to bind my time.
But one thing that has happened over the last couple years has been the clear thinking that what I have been given is not my own . From money,to my sons and even my wife . All these blessing are from God. In His graciousness , he has given them to me under my headship to love and lead .Sometimes well, others I have fallen on my face . But I keep getting up like Rocky , dust myself off and enter the ring again a little wiser I hope.
As to money , the older I get the only real reason I want to earn a decent income again to to give back . First to God , wanting to support ministries that are having an impact preaching and defending the gospel , helping the poor , needy,orphan and widow. To my family by sharing what I have been given and Lord willing one day many grandchildren . Money is a gift to give away .
Why do people hoard it or live in such a lavish way it leaves little to share ? They have an idol and its greed and possessions. We should be responsible with money , we have to live but it its not our own .
[15] As he came from his mother's womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand.
(Ecclesiastes 5:15 ESV)
I have said it before and will again , but we take nothing with into eternity . From the womb we come naked and into the grave we go naked as well. So why do we hold onto things like it will go one forever?
[15] As he came from his mother's womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand.
(Ecclesiastes 5:15 ESV)
I have said it before and will again , but we take nothing with into eternity . From the womb we come naked and into the grave we go naked as well. So why do we hold onto things like it will go one forever?
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
If Only Time Could Stand Still
I always get a bit down after Christmas . Its the putting away the decorations and throwing out the tree . Signifying another year gone by probably has to do with part of it and as I approach the big 50 in a couple of years, time seems more precious to me .So when Christmas day occurs and we have not suffered missing family at the table , I just want to drink in the moment . To be thankful and grateful for family and friends.
I always think Christmas is just a little taste of heaven . There is always a moment just before we open presents and having just read the Bible, telling of Jesus birth , I try to soak in that moment. Almost as if I'm trying to slow it down just a bit. We rush through so many moments in our lives . Neglecting or even begrudging at times , time spent with our children , our spouses , friends and even God . We act as if we all are going to be around on this earth forever , when the hard , reality is we are not. Each Christmas for the last 18 years, an empty spot is there without my Mom and with the recent passing of a family friend , not taking others for granted is weighing on my mind.
Parents lament and rush children out the door . Husband and wives in the pursuit of things work so much thinking that in retirement that is when we will connect , they get there and don't know each other. We fill our lives with so much we drown out time with God , failing to remember He is the life giver , redeemer and sustainer.
No , time cannot stand still like in some bad sci-fi show but we can use it more wisely . Getting our priorities right will help in going a long way in using the time God has given us to serve and worship Him and love our families, neighbors well.
So with that in mind , may we indeed use our time well .
I always think Christmas is just a little taste of heaven . There is always a moment just before we open presents and having just read the Bible, telling of Jesus birth , I try to soak in that moment. Almost as if I'm trying to slow it down just a bit. We rush through so many moments in our lives . Neglecting or even begrudging at times , time spent with our children , our spouses , friends and even God . We act as if we all are going to be around on this earth forever , when the hard , reality is we are not. Each Christmas for the last 18 years, an empty spot is there without my Mom and with the recent passing of a family friend , not taking others for granted is weighing on my mind.
Parents lament and rush children out the door . Husband and wives in the pursuit of things work so much thinking that in retirement that is when we will connect , they get there and don't know each other. We fill our lives with so much we drown out time with God , failing to remember He is the life giver , redeemer and sustainer.
No , time cannot stand still like in some bad sci-fi show but we can use it more wisely . Getting our priorities right will help in going a long way in using the time God has given us to serve and worship Him and love our families, neighbors well.
So with that in mind , may we indeed use our time well .
Monday, January 3, 2011
A Christian Without a Church ....Really !
Once again I heard this statement uttered and like a kick to the gut , it gets me a bit bothered under the collar.Why you might ask ? Well there was a fool that uttered these very words and it just didn't pan out too well . That fool would be me . I mentioned before on this blog about my wandering in the wilderness of self affliction , thinking I was so right . Needless to say and without going into all the gory details , it was a mitigated disaster .
So when one says I can be a believer and not go to Church , my first reaction is , your joking right! Now let me clarify , I do not believe going to Church makes one a Christian and in extreme circumstances , one may find one self without a place to attend for a brief season due to doctrinal issues or health . But with the advent of a car and transportation , one can surely find a decent Church to go to . perhaps it won't be all perfect doctrinally , but unless its preaching rank heresy , you are called to attend.If you do not and you become a nit picker , its root is pride . What you are saying is I'm all knowing . I know the Pastor is this , the people are that , the teaching is this and one hides their disgust towards Jesus church , pretending to be all pious .
But in reference to the statement that I heard , here is the rub of the matter. If I say I love my wife and children and truly desire a relationship with them and I neglect to spend time with them then how can that statement be true . Love shows itself in action. To love ones wife is to talk with her and listen , to serve her and be intimate with her . Same with children , one needs to be with them , enjoying their company .
When God calls us out of darkness , He doesn't place us back into isolation and say go your merry way , good luck. No , when Peter preached his famous sermon in Acts and thousands were saved , it says they were added to the Church . The Church was bought with Christ blood . He laid down his life to establish the Church , made up of His sheep.
Acts 2: 42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
The act to gather together came about quickly . There was no lone ranger believer attitude . Even when some began to drift away from faithful fellowship , the writer of Hebrews admonishes to not do so (Hebrews 10:25) but to continue on meeting to encourage one another. To say you love the Lord Jesus Christ and want nothing to do with His Church is at best a contradiction and at worst shows a spiritually sick heart , one that even deceive oneself in thinking they are in the right but in truth it can hide a self righteous and legalistic spirit. See it , been it and had the T-shirt.
To gather in God's house to worship , to hear God's word preached , to commune with other Christians is a sweet breath to the soul. We come together not as a perfect family , but one who acknowledges we are broken , sinners in need our a Savior . Yes , the Church will have warts , it will have problems but like the great preacher Spurgeon has said , if your looking for the perfect Church , you won't find one because as soon as you join , its not.
Jesus in Revelation even commends the faithful Christians who remained faithful in a not do perfect Church but He doesn't say go out in the forest and sit and worship , alone. Attending Church regularly shows a heart willing to submit under God's word . It also recognizes the need to be accountable to a larger community . The preached word acts like a surgeon's knife and without a weekly dose of the gospel , one can be so close off to ones blind spots . We can hold one to pride, be unforgiving , hold grudges etc... and think we are all right with God .
So please , unless you are on a desert island with your Bible and a coconut , do not say I can believe and be a faithful Christian without the Church . You will be open to sin and attack . It can show up as real rebellion and a fall or a moralistic , self righteous,false piety . Equally as dangerous and against the gospel of grace .
You cannot have God for your Father
Unless you have the Church
for your Mother.
Cyprian, Third Century Bishop of Carthage
"The bible knows nothing of solitary religion." John Wesley
"Church attendance is a vital to a disciple as a transfusion of rich, healthy blood to a sick man." D.L Moody
So when one says I can be a believer and not go to Church , my first reaction is , your joking right! Now let me clarify , I do not believe going to Church makes one a Christian and in extreme circumstances , one may find one self without a place to attend for a brief season due to doctrinal issues or health . But with the advent of a car and transportation , one can surely find a decent Church to go to . perhaps it won't be all perfect doctrinally , but unless its preaching rank heresy , you are called to attend.If you do not and you become a nit picker , its root is pride . What you are saying is I'm all knowing . I know the Pastor is this , the people are that , the teaching is this and one hides their disgust towards Jesus church , pretending to be all pious .
But in reference to the statement that I heard , here is the rub of the matter. If I say I love my wife and children and truly desire a relationship with them and I neglect to spend time with them then how can that statement be true . Love shows itself in action. To love ones wife is to talk with her and listen , to serve her and be intimate with her . Same with children , one needs to be with them , enjoying their company .
When God calls us out of darkness , He doesn't place us back into isolation and say go your merry way , good luck. No , when Peter preached his famous sermon in Acts and thousands were saved , it says they were added to the Church . The Church was bought with Christ blood . He laid down his life to establish the Church , made up of His sheep.
Acts 2: 42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
The act to gather together came about quickly . There was no lone ranger believer attitude . Even when some began to drift away from faithful fellowship , the writer of Hebrews admonishes to not do so (Hebrews 10:25) but to continue on meeting to encourage one another. To say you love the Lord Jesus Christ and want nothing to do with His Church is at best a contradiction and at worst shows a spiritually sick heart , one that even deceive oneself in thinking they are in the right but in truth it can hide a self righteous and legalistic spirit. See it , been it and had the T-shirt.
To gather in God's house to worship , to hear God's word preached , to commune with other Christians is a sweet breath to the soul. We come together not as a perfect family , but one who acknowledges we are broken , sinners in need our a Savior . Yes , the Church will have warts , it will have problems but like the great preacher Spurgeon has said , if your looking for the perfect Church , you won't find one because as soon as you join , its not.
Jesus in Revelation even commends the faithful Christians who remained faithful in a not do perfect Church but He doesn't say go out in the forest and sit and worship , alone. Attending Church regularly shows a heart willing to submit under God's word . It also recognizes the need to be accountable to a larger community . The preached word acts like a surgeon's knife and without a weekly dose of the gospel , one can be so close off to ones blind spots . We can hold one to pride, be unforgiving , hold grudges etc... and think we are all right with God .
So please , unless you are on a desert island with your Bible and a coconut , do not say I can believe and be a faithful Christian without the Church . You will be open to sin and attack . It can show up as real rebellion and a fall or a moralistic , self righteous,false piety . Equally as dangerous and against the gospel of grace .
You cannot have God for your Father
Unless you have the Church
for your Mother.
Cyprian, Third Century Bishop of Carthage
"The bible knows nothing of solitary religion." John Wesley
"Church attendance is a vital to a disciple as a transfusion of rich, healthy blood to a sick man." D.L Moody
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Forward , Onward and Upward
Took a couple days off of writing. Had a funeral to go to on New Years Day of a friend that died after a battle with cancer . He was a solid Christian. So it kinda framed the rest of the day for me as I entered 2011.
Then yesterday I also took advantage of the weather and went to visit my Mom's grave site. So in the quiet of the grave yard , with the wind slightly blowing over the snow covered ground I prayed .
I resolved to look forward . For way too many years I have spent too much time lingering and dwelling on past sins ,mistakes and failures. I do believe one should try to heal hurts one has caused , seeking forgiveness and reconciliation , undoing the wrongs one has done to the best of ones ability but at the same time if we dwell there if things don't go the way we want , we will be stuck in the past. We must except that if we confess of sins , God is faithful to forgive our sins . To linger and let them bog us down is ultimately an insult . Therefore looking forward I will resolve to read Psalm 51 daily , to mark my life with repentance and trust in the promises that in Jesus Christ , I'm whiter than snow . My sins are remembered no more .
I also resolve to move onward in the call to take up my cross ,deny myself and follow my Lord where He leads me (Mark 8:34 ). To truly desire growth and grow in grace in my life not for the purpose to naval gaze , but to exult Jesus Christ ,to glorify the Father and be filled with the Holy Spirit so that I can be more effective in my witness to others and service to my home Church . I want to love more, forgive much and share more .
Finally I want to press upward ." I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."Philippians 3:14) I want to set my eyes upward and set my sights on Jesus . This life can pummel you and leave you barren and weak. The flesh(sinful nature) the world and the devil want to rob your joy and peace one has in the Lord. So the the hope that is found only in Christ , is what I wish to press towards. Just as a runner that sprints for the finish line , one must fix ones eyes on the finish line . Most successful runners will tell you , to run well you must not focus on who is behind,beside or even ahead of you . One should focus on your goal that you see for yourself ahead to succeed . May the gospel of Jesus Christ, the wonder of the cross and the power of the resurrection be ever in our sight.
So those are my brief resolutions for 2011. May this year be full of God's grace and His glory be the goal . God bless .
Then yesterday I also took advantage of the weather and went to visit my Mom's grave site. So in the quiet of the grave yard , with the wind slightly blowing over the snow covered ground I prayed .
I resolved to look forward . For way too many years I have spent too much time lingering and dwelling on past sins ,mistakes and failures. I do believe one should try to heal hurts one has caused , seeking forgiveness and reconciliation , undoing the wrongs one has done to the best of ones ability but at the same time if we dwell there if things don't go the way we want , we will be stuck in the past. We must except that if we confess of sins , God is faithful to forgive our sins . To linger and let them bog us down is ultimately an insult . Therefore looking forward I will resolve to read Psalm 51 daily , to mark my life with repentance and trust in the promises that in Jesus Christ , I'm whiter than snow . My sins are remembered no more .
I also resolve to move onward in the call to take up my cross ,deny myself and follow my Lord where He leads me (Mark 8:34 ). To truly desire growth and grow in grace in my life not for the purpose to naval gaze , but to exult Jesus Christ ,to glorify the Father and be filled with the Holy Spirit so that I can be more effective in my witness to others and service to my home Church . I want to love more, forgive much and share more .
Finally I want to press upward ." I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."Philippians 3:14) I want to set my eyes upward and set my sights on Jesus . This life can pummel you and leave you barren and weak. The flesh(sinful nature) the world and the devil want to rob your joy and peace one has in the Lord. So the the hope that is found only in Christ , is what I wish to press towards. Just as a runner that sprints for the finish line , one must fix ones eyes on the finish line . Most successful runners will tell you , to run well you must not focus on who is behind,beside or even ahead of you . One should focus on your goal that you see for yourself ahead to succeed . May the gospel of Jesus Christ, the wonder of the cross and the power of the resurrection be ever in our sight.
So those are my brief resolutions for 2011. May this year be full of God's grace and His glory be the goal . God bless .
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