Sunday Quotes

I imagine a number of you reading this have come to see yourselves as “done” in the worst possible way. You are overcome by the world around you, overwhelmed by the circumstances of your life, and have nothing left. Perhaps through frailty or failure you have drawn the conclusion that you are defeated and all hope is lost. Today, consider this word from Isaiah 41:14,

Fear not, you worm Jacob,
you men of Israel!
I am the one who helps you, declares the LORD;
your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.

God doesn’t call his people “worms” because he despises them, or because they are less than human. He identifies them as worms here because they recognized themselves to be weak, pitiable, and trampled underfoot by the world. Throughout the chapter he says, in effect, “Though you are as worms, I am still your God. I will redeem you, and through me you will be more than conquerors!”  Joe Thorn

Its Been a Keith Green Kinda Week

This past week marked the 29th year that Keith Green died in a plane crash . He perished with 2 of his young children as well on that tragic day. However his legacy lives in his music and ministry he and his wife started. He was a truly passionate follower of Jesus Christ . The sad part that at the time of his death , he was truly starting to deepen and grow in doctrine and was understanding the dynamic of law and gospel .

The day of that marked his anniversary of his death , I watched a documentary of his life and began listening to some of his music again.Then I went into Rainbows End located in Wolfville ,NS . One of my favorite places in Wolfville .They sale used books,DVD's,CD's,Comics and LP's . Its a great little place to find cool stuff and chat with the owners Jim and Susan. A little plug there. Anyway , the day I went in ,low and behold they had just got in 4 Keith Green Lp's . God's providence or what . I snatched up all 4 and was very pleased. They are in great shape.

Listening to his music again I realize what a gift he was . He wanted all to be done for God's glory and wanted  to share the gospel of Jesus  only Christ. But God had other plans and called him home at only 28. But in his music and ministry , countless lives have been effected and God used his music and life to call many to Jesus.

Preacher Feature

In honor of John Stott who went home to be with his Lord this week at the age of 90.( 27 April 1921 – 27 July 2011) 

Every time we look at the cross Christ seems to say to us, “I am here because of you. It is your sin I am bearing, your curse I am suffering, your debt I am paying, your death I am dying.” Nothing in history or in the universe cuts us down to size like the cross. All of us have inflated views of ourselves, especially in self-righteousness, until we have visited a place called Calvary. It is here, at the foot of the cross that we shrink to our true size.   John Stott  

Hard Question

 This is one of the toughest questions that I have ever had tried to answer as Christian. When someone is sick of a serious disease or condition that could cost them their life and one is spared ,healed and another is not , how come ? Are certain peoples prayers more righteous or effective? Did those who prayed perhaps doubt or didn't pray earnest enough if their loved one was spared or healed. Lets face some hard facts , these are real questions , real pains and how you view God will determine the answer.

I had a very callous so called Christian friend when my Mom was given the news her cancer had gone terminal , suggest it was a matter of faith , just believe more or better. Thankfully I was sitting in a car otherwise I'm afraid what my Irish temper might have done. Was the prayers said on behalf of my Mom , only 52 , done by a bunch of doubters. The same with a dear friend who passed way last year , a member of my wifes family just recently , did the people praying for them lack that it factor with God. 

So why do some prayers seem to hit a ceiling and not reach God's ears. Is it because we don't believe enough,have enough faith or trust. Didn't Jesus say if we have faith like a mustard seed and say to a mountain move ,it would be done. What of the prayer request Jesus said ask in His name and it would be done as well. How can we reconcile these when someone is not healed, that job does not come and they lose the house ,that starving child in Africa who perishes even though her mother prayed and cried her eyes out! 

First all prayers in Christ name are heard by the Father . Jesus even intercedes on our behalf .When we cannot figure out what to say the Holy Spirit is said to pray for us. Is it then because of the certain people have a "special" line to God ? That can't be it either because those same people will pray for some who are spared and others who are not. 

So Why ? The ultimate answer to this question or dilemma is the reality that God is sovereign in all matters over life and death. If God does not respond in a way we want or make sense to us , we must trust that God is good no matter. All the promises of God most be seen in light of all of scripture. If we read through the word we will see sometimes God delivers , heals and other times does not. No matter what be it in health or sickness ,life or death our Lord calls us to trust Him , believe in Him and cast ourselves on Him.

When God answered Job about all the suffering and pain Job had gone through , His reply gave no real answer but said , oh man , where were you when I hung the stars . In other words , God is God. As a finite being and possessing a mind incapable of comprehending the ways of God , I cannot get my head around this mystery.Plus sometimes going through the valley , the storms are the vary thing we need to glorify God.

Was Jesus pleading prayer not earnest when He asked for the cup of wrath that He would face on the cross be taken from Him not truly sincere? Of course not. But it was through that dark night and day our redemption was secured. Jesus trusted the Father to bring about something amazing . As it is with our lives when things don't make sense in our pain or grief.

I don't have a clear answer but  know I'm called to trust and submit to God's will and call in my life. To exult Jesus and continue to pray which God ask us to do . I don't fully comprehend all the whys at times when some are spared and others are not but will trust . Trust because God is good and that is enough.

Psalm 31:14

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

 ¹⁴ But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD,
I say, “You are my God.”

The Blessing of Knowing God's Word

Our Pastor has shared on more than one occasion the blessing and comfort of knowing the Bible well. This comes into play in a real rubber meets the road way when illness , death, economic hardship suddenly enter your life. Even when temptation from the world ,the Devil or your sinful nature rears its ugly head , the word can be used as a sword to slay those enemies . When Jesus was tempted by the Devil , He used the word to defeat the enemy . Just as a warrior learned how to use his sword back when steel was used as the primary weapon of defense and offense. One would become so one with the sword , it was an extension of the body. You would know when to wield it lightly or like the a broadsword of a Scottish warrior to send the enemy fleeing.


Apart form fighting inward sin and worldly temptations , the sweetest sounds of God's word come into play when one is confronted with illness .When yourself or someone one you dearly love is facing illness , God's promises and comfort spoken in His word can give one both hope and peace in the most darkest places. It can be a lighthouse beacon of comfort , a sweet song to the soul and a source of strength .


Why ? Because it is living and active as Paul tells us in Ephesians. It is the word of life , it is God's word . It is the very words of our Lord Jesus. He said all of scripture testifies of Him and is about Him . In those words are the very words of life.

John 6:68-69

English Standard Version (ESV)

⁶⁸Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, ⁶⁹and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God."

When we read the word or have it read to us upon a hospital bed , pray through it , we encounter Jesus . The Holy Spirit takes the word applies it to our lives . Its not that our believing makes it the word of God , for it is the truth no matter if one believes it or not.But there is at the same time no mystery if one wants to be comforted and given peace, its as simple as opening the Bible. It has the words of life . Jesus tells us come , drink from the life giving waters , eat of the bread of life and rest in Him . 


The blessing of knowing God's word will and does give us a peace that surpasses all understanding.There are stories of captive Christians who sustained themslves through horrific ordeals because they recalled God's word.Even facing death , God's words flowed from their lips and just think, that moment of death , they were embraced by the Word himself.


My goal for the time God has given me is to know my Bible better and not just to know it , but to encounter my Lord and enter into a relationship with my Saviour ,sit at His feet and drink from His well , the word of God .Then take that word and share the gospel. 

Tuesday Thoughts

The tragedy that happened in Norway a couple of days ago was an act of utter evil . It was by a coward and sad day for so many people its hard to get ones head around. At first the media jumped on this idea that he was a right wing "Christian" fundamentalist. But as his manifesto was released for all to read , his writings reveal a man who has no idea what a Christian is . His has links to neo-Nazi's , is more of a Darwinist and his Christian views are twisted and pure pragmatic and cultural.May we pray for those who are in both grief and shock and with true Christian compassion, demonstrate what a real believer acts like.

The media has been having a frenzy over the news of Amy Winehouse's death at only 27. Her lifestyle and addiction finally looks like it took its toll. Once again the dark side of the "rock" lifestyle reared its ugly head and sucked its tentacles into another. The sad fact is we all have this capacity in us .We are sinful to the core and apart from God's grace we could be devoured by sin ourselves. To seek satisfaction in anything but Christ is doomed . Drugs,sex,alcohol,money,fame or whatever ultimately will only lead to death of the soul . Sad to see another soul lost to this evil age.

Social media may have some draw backs but at the same time it has much to commend it . This week a good friends Mom suffered a heart attack and is in the hospital fighting to recover . It may be a long road but through social media , we have been able to get updates , have prayer request asked for and send our love and prayers . In a real way it allows anyone in a need of support not to feel as alone. So three cheers for blogs and facebook .

Wanting to end on a good note. Despite the fact Christians in China have been subject to periods of intense persecution, the Church is growing leaps and bounds. It is awesome to read of the faithfulness and courage of our Chinese brothers and sister share Jesus despite the cost. May that give us boldness .

Nuff said for Tuesday .

Praying ,Praying,Praying

We are told to pray and Jesus taught the disciples how to when they asked in what manner they should pray. This is famously known as the Lord's prayer. Looking at it one is struck with how basic but profound it is. Its simplicity marks its beauty . It touches on what we should strive for when we pray.

1.That God's name would be revered and glorified . In all the triune majesty of the Godhead . May the name of our Lord be hallowed .
2.That the kingdom would come . How? By the preaching of Jesus and people repenting ,believing. That the Church reflect that the kingdom reign of Jesus is being manifested among the world and will be made complete when Jesus returns to establish the kingdom forever.
3. That God's will would be done on earth as it is in heaven. This speaks of His revealed will that is pleasing to God as given to us in the word of God. As Christians we should delight it God's law and seek to obey the commands of our Lord . Not that they save us but show a world we are different . Love one another, show mercy,compassion .
4. That our basic needs to met. Ultimately all out blessings are in Christ but here Jesus tells us to ask for daily bread,food for  life. Bread was a daily staple of life , needed to live and at this time. Most lived day to day .So the urgency and need for food was a concern .
5.Forgive our sins . We should live a pilgrims life of repentance and faith. Trusting in the completed work of Christ , knowing He is making intercession for us and clothing us with His righteousness. To acknowledge we are sinners in need of the great Redeemer.
6.To show forgiveness toward others. To understand our own sin , need of grace and forgiveness the result should be a heart overflowing with forgiveness and mercy towards others.
7.To lead us not into temptation. Although God will not deliberately lead us into sin , He will allow a time of testing or hardship to discipline or shape us. But we can ask to be spared .
8. Cry to God to deliver us from evil. When confronted by evil , be it  in the struggle within with the old man , external with the world or Satan , we are to call on God to deliver us . The Holy Spirit that indwells every believer is ever present in our time  of need . Run to God , get on ones knees and call out to Jesus . His promises are sure , that He will not leave us nor forsake us.

So just a few thought concerning the Lord's prayer. It is a great place to start . What a privilege and blessing it is to pray to God.

Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our debts,

as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil."

Sunday Quotes

Doctrinal preaching certainly bores the hypocrites; but it is only doctrinal preaching that will save Christ's sheep.   J.I Packer 

Great New Song

This is a great new worship song from Matt Redman off his new album with the same name. As I mentioned in my brief review,he continues to write excellent new worship songs. We will be singing this song at my home Church tomorrow. Do we not have 10000 reasons to sing his praises.


⁹ Worship the LORD in holy attire; 
Tremble before Him, all the earth.  Psalm 96:9

Preacher Feature

Since we worked our way through the Heidelberg Catechism I was pondering what to do with Friday's. So I thought I would feature some of my favorite Pastors current and long gone . Letting their thoughts encourage and instruct at the end of a hectic week for many . Hope you will enjoy .

John MacArthur


We all have to admit that worry is a common temptation in life--for many it is a favorite pastime. America, the most affluent society in the world is also the most worry-filled society in the world--that is, if spending on security, mental illnesses, and intoxicants are any indication. Americans worry, and worry is a sin. It is neither insignificant, nor inconsequential. And for the Christian, it is absolutely contrary to faith Christ.
Jesus categorically prohibited worry in a familiar portion of the Sermon on the Mount--Matthew 6:25-34. Three times in that short passage He commanded, "Do not worry!", and the way He said it shows the comprehensiveness of His charge. In verse 25 He acknowledges worry as a common practice and says, "Stop worrying;" in verses 31 and 34 He uses the same word, but in a way that means "Don't even start worrying." To continue worrying about anything, or to start worrying in the first place, is to violate the Lord's command.
If you worry, what kind of faith do you manifest? "Little faith," according to Jesus (Matt. 6:30). Now if you are a child of God, by definition you have a Heavenly Father. To act like you don't--nervously asking, "What shall I eat? What shall I drink? With what shall I clothe myself?"--is to act like an unbeliever in God's eyes (vv. 31-32).
Think about it this way: Christians who worry believe God can redeem them, break the shackles of Satan, take them from hell to heaven, put them into His kingdom, and give them eternal life, but just don't think He can get them through the next couple of days. That is pretty ridiculous, isn't it? That we can believe God for the greater gift and then stumble and not believe Him for the lesser one reveals an embarrassing lack of faith.
The Worrier Strikes Out at GodSomeone might say, "Why make a big deal out of worry? It's just a trivial sin." No, it is not. I suspect a majority of mental illnesses and some physical illnesses are directly related to worry. Many cases of drunkenness and drug addiction are symptomatic of worry. And because of worry, many make foolish life decisions, incurring painful consequences. Worry is devastating. But more important than what worry does to you is what you are communicating about God. When you worry you are saying in effect, "God, I just don't think I can trust You." Worry strikes a blow at the person and character of God.
The Worrier Disbelieves ScriptureIt breaks my heart to hear some Christians claim to believe in the inerrancy of Scripture, and then live as perpetual worriers. If you do that, you are saying one thing out of one side of your mouth, and another thing out of the other. It is incongruous to say how much you believe the Bible and then worry about God fulfilling what He says in it.
The Worrier Is Mastered by CircumstancesWhen you worry, you are choosing to be mastered by your circumstances instead of by the truth of God. The vicissitudes and trials of life pale in comparison to the greatness of salvation. Jesus wants you to realize it doesn't make sense to believe God can save you from eternal hell, but not help you in the practical matters of life. The Apostle Paul reflects a similar desire in Ephesians 1:18-19: "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe." When you catch yourself worrying, go back to Scripture and let God open your eyes again.
The Worrier Distrusts GodWhen you worry, you are not trusting your Heavenly Father. That means you don't know Him well enough. Take heart--there's an effective remedy: Study the Word of God to find out who He really is and how He has supplied the needs of His people in the past. That will build confidence for the future. Stay fresh in the Word every day so that God is in your mind. Otherwise Satan is apt to move into the vacuum and tempt you to worry about something. Let God's track record in Scripture and in your own life assure you that worry is needless because of God's bounty, senseless because of God's promise, useless because of its impotence to do anything productive, and faithless because it is characteristic of unbelievers.
Worry Is Unwise Because of Our FutureJesus said, "Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matt. 6:34). He was saying, "Don't worry about the future. Even though it will have its share of problems, they have a way of working themselves out at the time. Just deal with them as they come, for there's no way to solve them in advance." Providing for tomorrow is good, but worrying about tomorrow is sin because God is the God of tomorrow just like He is the God of today. Lamentations 3:23 tells us His mercies "are new every morning." He feeds us like He fed the Children of Israel--with just enough manna for the day.
Worrying paralyzes you, making you too upset to accomplish anything productive. It will seek to do that to you by taking you mentally into tomorrow until you find something to worry about. Refuse to go along for the ride. The Lord says you have enough to deal with today. Apply today's resources to today's needs or you will lose today's joy.
God gives you the glorious gift of life today; live in the light and full joy of that day, using the resources God supplies. Don't push yourself into the future and forfeit the day's joy over an anticipated tomorrow that may never happen. Today is all you really have, for God permits none of us to live in tomorrow until it turns into today.
Understand this: God gives you strength one day at a time. He gives you what you need when you need it and doesn't encumber you with excess baggage. Perhaps your worst fear is how you'd handle a loved one's death. Let me assure you as a pastor who has kept watch over many Christians finding themselves in that situation, this is the attitude I most often encounter: "It is so wonderful how God has sustained me! I naturally miss my beloved, but I feel such incredible strength and confidence and a gladness in my heart that my loved one is with the Lord." God gives us His grace in the hour we need it. If we worry about the future now, we double our pain without having the grace to deal with it.
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, yes and forever" (Heb. 13:8). That means He will be doing the same thing tomorrow that He was doing yesterday. If you have any question about the future, look at the past. Did He sustain you then? Don't worry--He will sustain you in the future as well.

---

Crank It Up For God's Glory

There is much within modern worship music that I do not care for but one artist that seems to be hitting all the right notes is Matt Redman. Hailing from Sussex England , he has become a staple in worship music with many of his songs constantly showing up in Church services. 

His new album called 10000 Reasons was recorded live at a worship event earlier this year . Usually I'm not one to enjoy live albums , especially when they feature all new songs but this album makes the audience a part of the recording not just noise. In portions of songs when the audience sings on mass , its like having a huge choir and it is very effective . 

As with his other recordings it features both upbeat numbers like the infectious opener We Are The Free and more reflective slower ones Here For You. The one thing that this album continues to show is Redman's desire to continue to deepen and grow in his hunger and passion to show God's glory that shines through the gospel of Christ. Songs like Where Would We Be , pointing to the fact apart from God loving us we would be still in darkness to the anthem Magnificent ,this album makes much of  God's greatness and supremacy over all things. One of the great strengths of his songs they are written for the purpose to be sung in worship. In this capacity you will not be disappointed . 

So once again Redman has shown modern worship music can be written well . It can lift us up , instruct,encourage and be sound all at the same time. 10000 Reasons is a another solid effort and I'm sure we will singing many of these songs in our Churches before long. 

Favs :  Never Once , 10000 Reasons,Holy,Where Would We Be,Endless Hallelujah 

Great Scene From LOTR

This scene always gives me a lump in my throat . So much cinema isn't worth the time but the great stories and movies have what is called the hero's quest . A tale of a journey ,courage,sacrifice and ultimately good overcoming evil . Sound familiar ?

What Do You Want to Be Remembered For

[24] But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
(Acts 20:24 ESV)

Paul was speaking to a group of fellow believers before he was to head off to Jerusalem. He knew that his course of action would set off a series of conflicts against him and later in the same address , tells those with him they would not see his face again.

But this passage really struck me with force as I was thinking on my life and where I'm going . What shall I be remembered for . Paul tells them that his life is of no importance to himself , his only hope is that he finish the ministry that had been set before by Jesus  and proclaim the  gospel of God's grace.

His love for Jesus and his bold ,clear proclamation was a staple of Paul's ministry. His witness , his preaching,his love for the church,the people was all framed by his love for God found in the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ.It would cost him his life in Rome . Tradition tells us he was beheaded. But as we look at his life , his love and heart for Jesus shines so bright that it is blinding. This love translated in his love for the lost , for those saved and for God's church.

As one approaches 50(only 2 years away) one begins to look back and wonder what has this life been about so far. One wants to be a good husband,father, friend,worker etc... but ultimately I would desire, going forward ,to have Jesus so frame my life that all those things that are good, be are gospel saturated. To testify of the love of God , found in Jesus Christ. That is what I want to be remembered for .

Using Jesus

I have been reading The Pilgrims Progress again and just finished a section concerning a group of men following Christian and Hopeful on the way . They had a conversation concerning if one could use religion to gain favor with men and the world . Using , God if you will to better their standing and financial ends . For a Preacher to accommodate the message so his audiences would increase and there by gain a fatter pocket book to boot.After a bit of tongue wagging ,the group all agreed that this was both a good thing and still a honest endeavor.

Calling out to Christian and Hopeful , who had parted from one of them earlier(rightly so as well) , this group wanted his view on the matter. Christian wasted no time in rebuking this notion of using God for your advantage.Citing numerous examples Hamor and Shecham who circumcised themselves because they coveted Jacobs daughters, the Pharisee's long prayers and posturing to gain widow's houses and esteem,Judas and his desire to control the money purse and Simon the witch who wanted the power of the Holy Spirit for his own benefit . You can read all of these users of God and see how it worked out for them .Hint , it was not good.

In reality if we are honest all of us have been users of God at one time or another. Crying out to God saying just get me through this and I will do whatever . The classic have no time for God but then boom , along come trouble and then your all over God . These are bad and we need to repent of this type but the more insidious using of Jesus is for personal gain .

It can come into two major flavors. The first is adopting Jesus to suit the audience you happen to be around. Taking off the cutting razor sharp edges of the gospel so you don't get into trouble or look like a fool . So your Jesus is open to other religions , is loving to all and just wants us to be compassionate. Forget about the cross, hell ,wrath ,sin and any of those other controversial things. This way you will look progressive ,with it and fit right in.

The next is the heretical prosperity style of Gospel that God wants you healthy and wealthy. Just use Jesus as a heavenly Genie or Santa Claus. Name it and claim it . You can have your best life right now . No suffering , no cross bearing.Tap into the divine and before you know it you will have that BMW,cottage on the lake and a bank account that will be bulging.

The reason we should come to Jesus is because of what He did for us , who He is and His love shown towards us that while we were yet sinners , He died for us. He is God in the flesh , He cannot be used .  He is to be our reward,our treasure ,our joy ,our peace to the glory of the Father. Then we will be slaves for Christ and our hearts cry will not to be users but our call will be , use me Lord for your glory.

Quote Sunday

To dwell on the past simply causes failure in the present. While you are sitting down and bemoaning the past and regretting all the things you have not done, you are crippling yourself and preventing yourself from working in the present. Is that Christianity? Of course it is not.   Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Saturdays Song Selection

I thought that each Saturday going forward ,I would post a song to prepare our hearts and minds toward Jesus  as we head into the Lord's day for worship.

Magic Ooze

Walked by a magazine about Darwinism and this article caught my eye, From Ooze To Us. I didn't have time to pick up and scan the article but I have read enough evolutionary dogma concerning the cosmic goop we sprang from to get what was being said.

Doesn't that make one go , wow I have a purpose , meaning and a , wait if all I'm is walking goo and will return to goo , and all I accomplish in on this insignificant planet in a vast meaningless universe that will eventually go the way to nothing in say another 40 billion years or so , then I'm nothing.All my love,concerns and hopes are just empty and totally devoid of any weight in life . Feel good about things now , you amazing magic ooze. Oh and lets not forget if suffering comes , its just nature showing its tooth and claw . Getting rid the the defective ooze so too bad.

Oh and lets not go down that highway of morality . Its just a fools errand forced upon us by those stupid religious folk who want the weak and vulnerable to continue their existence . Should not the strong dominate or if it sees fit , eliminate the weak. After all its just ooze to the trash , right.

That is the reality if you think we are walking ,evolved ooze no matter how you try to sale it. No matter what the atheist try , underneath the shiny clothes they try to put on , a rotting truth is underneath. But the human heart knows that we are not ooze and cosmic goo . We know there is something , that something is wrong. No matter how much they try to sell their magic ooze to the world , the truth of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ will confound and transform  that magic ooze form a wretched sinner to a saint ,saved by the precious blood shed on Calvary's cross.

Envy,Jobs and Mordor

Envy , it can be a very insidious sin. But sometimes it is easier said than done to not succumb to it. The bottom line is when you see others enjoying either success or going to a job they generally enjoy , I admit it is one that I have to fight against .  I currently don't have a paying job, which I know affects my thinking  . Looking for a decent job has been a trial in patience and frustration. I know my body and I cannot do certain jobs without knowing it will cost me pain and problems in the future . So when I see someone going to career or job they truly like and even enjoy, I feel a bit of , why not me ?

I have been passed over from  certain jobs I thought that I had  a decent shot at , and after a while you begin to wonder if it is ever going to change. Plus at 47, the next position I get needs to make sense . It has to be something that long term I can do . It has to be flexible and fit into my wife's schedule. She is currently beating cancer and  it makes me very aware of time spent with her. So no back shifts or split shifts.Not going to happen .  Last , I want a job where I can go to and enjoy for a change. In all my working years I have never had that. If asking for that is a bit selfish , then so be it .

Having watched my Dad's body destroyed thanks to plant work and regretting not making changes in his 40's, it was a lesson watched and learned . It took me way too long to figure that out but I got it now.

As of right now , its like I'm stuck in the darkness of Mordor , seeking to destroy the ring of envy and missed opportunities that hang around my neck weighing me down. Perhaps its just over the horizon but sometimes , if I'm honest , it looks very dark and far away . I could wax at this point about some grand spiritual truth but that would dishonest .  Sometimes all one can do is relate to the Psalmist and cry out where are you ? Its been a trying couple of weeks on many fronts and concerns for others have no question , pushed me deeper. Thats my head space today.

We Need To Hear This

Sometimes You Need a Laugh

Quote Sunday

"Whomever the Lord has adopted and deemed worthy of His fellowship ought to prepare themselves for a hard, toilsome, and unquiet life, crammed with very many and various kinds of evil."   John Calvin  

A Song For The Way This Week Has Been

This has been a rough week and a half for many people that I know or know of . This song really spoke to me and I hope it will minister to others. There is indeed hope no matter what may come . Jesus is the answer, Jesus is our hope and Jesus is our life. Cast all your cares on Him and stand firm .

Catechism Friday

Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)

127. Q. What is the sixth petition?

A. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.  That is: In ourselves we are so weak that we cannot stand even for a moment.[1] Moreover, our sworn enemies -- the devil,[2] the world,[3] and our own flesh[4] -- do not cease to attack us.  Wilt Thou, therefore, uphold and strengthen us by the power of Thy Holy Spirit, so that in this spiritual war[5] we may not go down to defeat, but always firmly resist our enemies, until we finally obtain the complete victory.[6]

[1] Ps. 103:14-16; John 15:1-5. [2] II Cor. 11:14; Eph. 6:10-13; I Pet. 5:8. [3] John 15:18-21. [4] Rom. 7:23; Gal. 5:17. [5] Matt. 10:19, 20; 26:41; Mark 13:33; Rom. 5:3-5. [6] I Cor. 10:13; I Thess. 3:13; 5:23.

128. Q. How do you conclude your prayer?

A. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.  That is: All this we ask of Thee because, as our King, having power over all things, Thou art both willing and able to give us all that is good,[1] and because not we but Thy holy Name should so receive all glory for ever.[2]

[1] Rom. 10:11-13; II Pet 2:9. [2] Ps. 115:1; Jer. 33:8, 9; John 14:13.

129. Q. What does the word Amen mean?

A. Amen means: It is true and certain.  For God has much more certainly heard my prayer than I feel in my heart that I desire this of Him.[1]

[1] Is. 65:24; II Cor. 1:20; II Tim. 2:13.

That Old Testy God

How often have you read or heard from others that I can perhaps put up with Jesus but that Old Testament God,well He is a nasty piece of work . Full of wrath, vengeance ,hate ,well you get the picture. Those who do so paint with such a broad brush and then cheery pick text , often out of context , to try and prove their misguided point.

So I would like to share one of the my favorite passages from that old testy God that speaks grace and hope to this repenting sinner everyday.`



The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
  they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
                                         (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)


When I reflect on my day and think of how many times I have blown it or failed to do what I should have done , I'm thankful that as I turn in humility and repentance to God through Christ , I can trust in His love,His mercies each and everyday. This is not a licence to live as we want , sinning and then going hey , we will just repent each day , but a call to live a life of repentance and trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ. In reality to make this promise your own will breath new life into your pilgrimage .

So much for that "Old Testy" Deity !

To React

When soldiers go  to battle what saves their lives is the intense training they receive to  react to any situation without hesitating. The training they get is out of that to prepare them to not hesitate but to in a blink of an eye actin any situation. The same for police officers . They never know what they will encounter and in a heartbeat of time something can cause that training to kick in. I have read stories of Navy Seals and Swat teams talking about the repetitive task and training they go through , so that by the time a lethal situation occurs , they know what to do and how to react to defend and protect.

As a Christian , lets understand clearly we are in a battle zone of life. In a instant life can lob a grenade into your theater of life. How we react will depend on how well we are truly versed in our faith. It is one thing to call one self a believer but when the heat hits the fan , how will you react to these situations. The reality is we are called to renew our minds , to study scripture ,understand doctrine, be daily in prayer , faithfully attending Church to hear the word preached , part take in the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's supper that we react as followers of Christ when these sudden attacks or bombs go off.

But in truth we know that this does not always happen. Just as with soldiers and police officers , though trained very well sometimes it does not go as planned and tragedy happens. We do fail sometimes to react the way we should and as a believer , it can cost us . The bomb goes off and we fail , we stumble . So what then? 

We should fall back on the one who never turned back. May we trust in Christ . Even at times when we are faithless may these words comfort us , ..... if we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself.

(2 Timothy 2:13 ESV)

Reconciliation Brings Tears

There is a new show on TV that shows US soldiers being reunited with their families. To watch these encounters take place and see the joy of both participants  is truly a wonderful sight to witness. Unless you are very heartless , even the manliest man will be laid low , fighting tears and biting ones lip . I know because to watch Dad's and Husbands reunited with their wife's and children or their parents ,stirs something within the human soul.I admit a tear or two.

Why? I think in a real way , to be reconciled to someone who is away is a longing in all our souls . As we get older we understand that death will separate us from loved ones . My mom has been gone for almost 19 years and there is not a day I do not miss her . The reality is there will be many more of these broken relationships when death comes to call and breaks the fellowship of love one has with someone. All of us ,if honest , know that death is not right , that it is a enemy and no matter how one tries to phrase it , we cannot buy into that lie.

So when we see a family restored , a Dad embrace a child or wife , a Mom hug her son , it hits us at the very core of any broken relationships we have and long to have back.

At the very heart of Christianity is the story of reconciliation. The scripture tells us that there is rejoicing in heaven when one sinner repents and trust in Jesus Christ ,who is our redeemer. Just think  God the Father , sent the Son , who gave His life on the cross , rose again and by the Holy Spirit , awakes dead sinners to life and its God who seeks,saves and surprises us with His grace. That is the ultimate reconciliation.

May we rejoice and shed tears of joy when we hear of a lost , wandering sinner saved , embraced by God and carried into His everlasting arms.

Verse Of The Day  :    [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [11] More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
(Romans 5:10-11 ESV)

Quote Sunday

“Some writers may toy with the fancy of a ‘Christ-myth,’ but they do not do so on the ground of historical evidence. The historicity of Christ is as axiomatic for an unbiased historian as the historicity of Julius Caesar. It is not historians who propagate the ‘Christ-myth’ theories.”

- F.F. Bruce 

A Weird Experience

Today at my home Church I gave my testimony or faith walk to our men's group that meets once a month. But to be honest it is strange to talk about myself. What I tried to do was speak of God's work in my life and share the highlights and low points of this pilgrimage that I have been on. Ending with what I hope is my goal for the rest of my life. That is to serve Christ more faithfully and follow where and what He calls me to.

I believe sharing God's work in ones life has a place but ultimately it should never take the place of witnessing to the objective truth of the gospel of Christ. Personal testimony can end up being too much see how great my walk is . I would rather have people look to Jesus and His story. Not mine .

Catechism Friday

Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)

. Q. Why has Christ commanded us to address God as Our Father?

A. To awaken in us at the very beginning of our prayer that childlike reverence and trust toward God which should be basic to our prayer: God has become our Father through Christ and will much less deny us what we ask of Him in faith than our fathers would refuse us earthly things.[1] [1] Matt. 7:9-11; Luke 11:11-13. 121.  

121. Q. Why is there added, Who art in heaven?  

A. These words teach us not to think of God's heavenly majesty in an earthly manner,[1] and to expect from His almighty power all things we need for body and soul.[2]

[1] Jer. 23:23, 24; Acts 17:24, 25. [2] Matt. 6:25-34; Rom. 8:31, 32.

122. Q. What is the first petition?

A. Hallowed be Thy Name.  That is: Grant us first of all that we may rightly know Thee,[1] and sanctify, glorify, and praise Thee in all Thy works, in which shine forth Thy almighty power, wisdom, goodness, righteousness, mercy, and truth.[2] Grant us also that we may so direct our whole life -- our thoughts, words, and actions -- that Thy Name is not blasphemed because of us but always honoured and praised.[3]

[1] Jer. 9:23, 24; 31: 33, 34; Matt. 16:17; John 17:3. [2] Ex. 34:5-8; Ps. 145; Jer. 32:16-20; Luke 1:46-55, 68-75;Rom. 11: 33-36. [3] Ps. 115:1; Matt. 5:16.

123. Q. What is the second petition?

A. Thy kingdom come.  That is: So rule us by Thy Word and Spirit that more and more we submit to Thee.[1] Preserve and increase Thy church.[2] Destroy the works of the devil, every power that raises itself against Thee, and every conspiracy against Thy holy Word.[3] Do all this until the fulness of Thy kingdom comes, wherein Thou shalt be all in all.[4]

[1] Ps. 119:5, 105; 143:10; Matt. 6:33. [2] Ps. 51:18; 122:6-9; Matt. 16:18; Acts 2:42-47. [3] Rom. 16:20; I John 3:8. [4] Rom. 8:22, 23; I Cor. 15:28; Rev. 22: 17, 20.

124. Q. What is the third petition?

A. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.  That is: Grant that we and all men may deny our own will, and without any murmuring obey Thy will, for it alone is good.[1] Grant also that everyone may carry out the duties of his office and calling[2] as willingly and faithfully as the angels in heaven.[3]

[1] Matt. 7:21; 16:24-26; Luke 22:42; Rom. 12:1, 2; Tit. 2:11, 12. [2] I Cor. 7:17-24; Eph. 6:5-9. [3] Ps. 103:20,21.

125. Q. What is the fourth petition?

A. Give us this day our daily bread.  That is: Provide us with all our bodily needs[1] so that we may acknowledge that Thou art the only fountain of all good,[2] and that our care and labour, and also Thy gifts, cannot do us any good without Thy blessing.[3] Grant therefore that we may withdraw our trust from all creatures, and place it only in Thee.[4]

[1] Ps. 104:27-30; 145:15, 16; Matt. 6:25-34. [2] Acts 14:17; 17:25; James 1:17. [3] Deut. 8:3; Ps. 37:16; 127:1,2; I Cor. 15:58. [4] Ps. 55:22; 62; 146; Jer. 17:5-8; Heb. 13:5, 6.

126. Q. What is the fifth petition?

A. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.  That is: For the sake of Christ's blood, do not impute to us, wretched sinners; any of our transgressions, nor the evil which still clings to us,[1] as we also find this evidence of Thy grace in us that we are fully determined wholeheartedly to forgive our neighbor.[2]

[1] Ps. 51:1-7; 143:2; Rom. 8:1; I John 2:1, 2. [2] Matt. 6:14, 15; 18:21-35.