Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Jackie Evancho, 10 (Opera Singer) on America's Got Talent YouTube Special
Check this young lady out. I've caught bits and pieces of America's Got Talent this year and watched the last 30 minutes Tuesday night and got to experience this 10 year old girl. Simply amazing.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Neither Here Nor There
What's up with the Rangers?
My mind is fragmented again, hence few new posts.
The following video doesn't make George Bush a better President or a great man or cause me to want to say bad things about the current President. I think it's just a representation of a kind heart and pretty dang cool.
Grace and peace to you.
My mind is fragmented again, hence few new posts.
The following video doesn't make George Bush a better President or a great man or cause me to want to say bad things about the current President. I think it's just a representation of a kind heart and pretty dang cool.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Passion
I'm off to a late start this morning so a brief thought about something I saw last night.
Lou Pinella has retired from baseball early to spend time with his ailing mother. I suppose the Cubs not going anywhere in the postseason makes it easier to retire now but what struck me last night was this big, loud, demonstrative man when mad was weeping while speaking about it being the last time he would wear a uniform. Weeping. His passion for what he does and has spent a lifetime involved with was obvious.
I remember Paul Faulkner reading the account of Jesus' death in my freshman Bible class and weeping.
I heard someone recount visiting a cave in the Holy Lands and their guide telling them it may very well be the cave where Jesus was praying before his captivity while sweating drops of blood and the man weeping while trying to recount the story.
Passion.
Passion for Christ is something that has been building in my life for a while now. I admit that reading the account of Christ's death or the account of his heavy prayer didn't hit me hard enough to bring me to tears at one time and today there are some songs we sing in worship that I almost can't get through, readings in the Bible that leave wet pages in my Bible and time spent thinking about my God that cannot end without tears. Tears of grief for what had to be given for me, tears of joy for who I am as a son of God, tears of thanksgiving for the reward that awaits me because God is a loving God.
I hope my passion for Christ will continue to grow by leaps and bounds, day after day.
Grace and peace to you.
Lou Pinella has retired from baseball early to spend time with his ailing mother. I suppose the Cubs not going anywhere in the postseason makes it easier to retire now but what struck me last night was this big, loud, demonstrative man when mad was weeping while speaking about it being the last time he would wear a uniform. Weeping. His passion for what he does and has spent a lifetime involved with was obvious.
I remember Paul Faulkner reading the account of Jesus' death in my freshman Bible class and weeping.
I heard someone recount visiting a cave in the Holy Lands and their guide telling them it may very well be the cave where Jesus was praying before his captivity while sweating drops of blood and the man weeping while trying to recount the story.
Passion.
Passion for Christ is something that has been building in my life for a while now. I admit that reading the account of Christ's death or the account of his heavy prayer didn't hit me hard enough to bring me to tears at one time and today there are some songs we sing in worship that I almost can't get through, readings in the Bible that leave wet pages in my Bible and time spent thinking about my God that cannot end without tears. Tears of grief for what had to be given for me, tears of joy for who I am as a son of God, tears of thanksgiving for the reward that awaits me because God is a loving God.
I hope my passion for Christ will continue to grow by leaps and bounds, day after day.
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, August 20, 2010
The Spiritual Realm
I am still rolling around the idea of how the spiritual realm responds to my daily decisions that my friend shared with me. I don't understand what all is involved with the spiritual realm completely but I do get the idea that good and evil are fighting for my soul and that they are all watching me (and you) to see what decisions I will make (and you will make) and one group or the other is celebrating the little victories. Wow, how I hate to think I have disappointed the heavenly hosts of angels, as I have too many times. But, WOW, how I love to think about what the good guys are doing when I choose to follow God's will, when I choose to walk in the footsteps of Christ.
All this has added a potential new chapter to my book-in-process idea about how we think about "our" reputations. Most of us in my generation and older have certainly heard that our name is important, meaning the way people see us is something we should be highly concerned with. I think the danger with that thinking is that it can cause some to take pride in their name and what they are doing and pride can lead to some sinful decisions. I think the other danger is that we forget which name we carry that is the important one. My family name is known by many but doesn't lead to eternal joy. The name Christian is the name I want to take stock in, the name that I want to glorify. I have heard Proverbs 22:1 pointed out as the source for why so many hold their name, their reputation, their good deeds, in high esteem. On the other hand, I seldom hear reference to Proverbs 21:24.
I must be careful what I hold up as important. For me, concern with my family name leads to pride that leads to doing un-Christlike things to try and protect my name when what I really need to do is be honest about my temptations, my thoughts, my sins and my victories. I have control over all of them but to stop and think who is celebrating with me when I give in to temptation and sin as opposed to who celebrates with me when I follow the path to victory is much more awe-inspiring than to think about who thinks I am a good person. If I spend my days celebrating with God because I am living in accordance with His will, my name is the last thing I will need to worry about.
Grace and peace to you.
All this has added a potential new chapter to my book-in-process idea about how we think about "our" reputations. Most of us in my generation and older have certainly heard that our name is important, meaning the way people see us is something we should be highly concerned with. I think the danger with that thinking is that it can cause some to take pride in their name and what they are doing and pride can lead to some sinful decisions. I think the other danger is that we forget which name we carry that is the important one. My family name is known by many but doesn't lead to eternal joy. The name Christian is the name I want to take stock in, the name that I want to glorify. I have heard Proverbs 22:1 pointed out as the source for why so many hold their name, their reputation, their good deeds, in high esteem. On the other hand, I seldom hear reference to Proverbs 21:24.
I must be careful what I hold up as important. For me, concern with my family name leads to pride that leads to doing un-Christlike things to try and protect my name when what I really need to do is be honest about my temptations, my thoughts, my sins and my victories. I have control over all of them but to stop and think who is celebrating with me when I give in to temptation and sin as opposed to who celebrates with me when I follow the path to victory is much more awe-inspiring than to think about who thinks I am a good person. If I spend my days celebrating with God because I am living in accordance with His will, my name is the last thing I will need to worry about.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The Evil Men (and Women) Do
I removed the gadget on my blog that shows my followers because a naked lady appeared in one. I don't know how long she was there because I seldom look at it but I do appreciate the reader who told me about (thanks MY!).
It's sad that something I started to be helpful to me can be turned around and used for evil. The Internet is full of pictures, videos, stories and many other things that are used to draw people in to Satan's trap. How I know it all too well. It's bad enough that people start their own porn sites but when they start abusing the space of others who want nothing to do with their mess, it becomes more frustrating.
I had a great lunch today with a new friend and we discussed what must happen to Satan and his forces when people praise the name of God in the midst of their sufferings, how they must be confused and maddened at the same time. My friend went on to say that he also thinks about the heavenly hosts, that they likely stand and salute the one who is praising God's name in their suffering, how they must shout cheers of victory. When I think about it like that, it makes me want to strive even harder to glorify the name of God in the midst of evil, in the midst of suffering, in the midst of the things that are being done to tear me down.
God, I praise you in this space. I praise you before the people who read this. I praise you before the ones who would try to infest this space with evil. I praise you before the one who wants to fill people with sadness, doubt and to steal their hope. I praise you because you have prepared a banquet for me and for others who use this space and the words here to draw closer to you. I praise you because you are alive in my mind and in my heart and give me words to put in blank places that might touch one heart you know that needs to hear it. I praise you because you love me for all that I am - fallen, sinful, hurting. I praise you because you have a vision of who I will be by following your desire for me - a light in the darkness, a hand to help someone up, a son of yours, a son of the great and almighty God.
Grace and peace to you.
It's sad that something I started to be helpful to me can be turned around and used for evil. The Internet is full of pictures, videos, stories and many other things that are used to draw people in to Satan's trap. How I know it all too well. It's bad enough that people start their own porn sites but when they start abusing the space of others who want nothing to do with their mess, it becomes more frustrating.
I had a great lunch today with a new friend and we discussed what must happen to Satan and his forces when people praise the name of God in the midst of their sufferings, how they must be confused and maddened at the same time. My friend went on to say that he also thinks about the heavenly hosts, that they likely stand and salute the one who is praising God's name in their suffering, how they must shout cheers of victory. When I think about it like that, it makes me want to strive even harder to glorify the name of God in the midst of evil, in the midst of suffering, in the midst of the things that are being done to tear me down.
God, I praise you in this space. I praise you before the people who read this. I praise you before the ones who would try to infest this space with evil. I praise you before the one who wants to fill people with sadness, doubt and to steal their hope. I praise you because you have prepared a banquet for me and for others who use this space and the words here to draw closer to you. I praise you because you are alive in my mind and in my heart and give me words to put in blank places that might touch one heart you know that needs to hear it. I praise you because you love me for all that I am - fallen, sinful, hurting. I praise you because you have a vision of who I will be by following your desire for me - a light in the darkness, a hand to help someone up, a son of yours, a son of the great and almighty God.
Grace and peace to you.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Blah Blah Blah
Blogging has been hard for several weeks now and it's been difficult to write congruent thoughts without creating a book. While writing has been an outlet for me, it is also a barometer of the stress and strain of what is going on in my life. More so, it is a barometer of where I stand in my relationship with God because when I am trusting Him completely there is a peace around me that is certainly supernatural, but, when I am in the old mode of wanting what I want and struggling with emotions that are neither healthy nor productive, there is no peace and I am a tangled mass of confusing thoughts and feelings. This isn't a good recipe for writing.
Moving on, last night I watched a study video from the Frances Chan book , Crazy Love and was again reminded of what this world might look like if we tried to live more like Jesus and less like Americanized Christians. I will read this book again and hope that it is used to teach a class at our church one day. All the while, I know there are many people who would fight against what it teaches because of the author's convictions. One of his comments in the study video is something along the line of "have you ever looked around your church and wondered who might not get into heaven because they are lukewarm?" That's a pretty strong thought but one I support because I feel I was one of those lukewarm Christians - ready to do whatever I needed to do in the church but doing little, if anything, outside the church where the lost are wandering around. I assume the people in the church at Laodicea were all baptized believers and God was ready to spit them out of His mouth. Woe be it to me if I find myself in that situation ever again.
I look to the day I climb out of this valley and hope and pray that I will be hot, that my words and my actions will be geared to glorifying God and shining a light on the path that is traveled by the lost so that they may also find their way home to the Father who is waiting to run and greet them, arms stretched open ready to wrap them up in His good and perfect love.
Grace and peace to you.
Moving on, last night I watched a study video from the Frances Chan book , Crazy Love and was again reminded of what this world might look like if we tried to live more like Jesus and less like Americanized Christians. I will read this book again and hope that it is used to teach a class at our church one day. All the while, I know there are many people who would fight against what it teaches because of the author's convictions. One of his comments in the study video is something along the line of "have you ever looked around your church and wondered who might not get into heaven because they are lukewarm?" That's a pretty strong thought but one I support because I feel I was one of those lukewarm Christians - ready to do whatever I needed to do in the church but doing little, if anything, outside the church where the lost are wandering around. I assume the people in the church at Laodicea were all baptized believers and God was ready to spit them out of His mouth. Woe be it to me if I find myself in that situation ever again.
I look to the day I climb out of this valley and hope and pray that I will be hot, that my words and my actions will be geared to glorifying God and shining a light on the path that is traveled by the lost so that they may also find their way home to the Father who is waiting to run and greet them, arms stretched open ready to wrap them up in His good and perfect love.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Followers
I continue to watch the analytics of this blog with part fascination, part curiousness about who and why people are following my site. In the last 30 days I've had people come to this blog from the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, India, Malaysia and couple of other far flung places and I've had people start following me that I don't know. Some of the people stopping by have bad intentions wanting to get visitors to their sites that want money from you and I try to delete those as fast as I can. When I started this blog, it was for me and I guess I never expected anyone else to read it. Then a few people found out and Rick and Kyle even responded. Now I've had 951 unique visitors in the past 30 days. It adds a bit of fear to what I do because most of what I right is about me, emotions I'm not sure I want to share with people I don't know. On the other hand, I wonder if it is an opportunity to reach out to people and let them know they are not alone in their struggles, in their failings, in their fears and in their victories. I need to decide where I want to go with this I suppose.
That said, yesterday was a struggle for me but today I feel lifted up. I feel like today is a better day because I have asked a few very, very close friends to pray for me and for some emotions I am battling. I believe I am feeling better today because their prayers are at work on my behalf. My point is this, if you don't have some close friends you can share everything with, you are in a tough situation. To go a step further, I am convinced men need men in their lives they can tell their sins to, tell their temptations to, tell their darkest fears to who will love them unconditionally. The tragedy is most men are afraid of that level of intimacy but I am here to tell you that once you make that step, your life will make a turn for the better. Granted, it has to be someone you can trust and someone who isn't going to gossip about what they've heard but once you find that person or group of people, more peace will enter your life than you think possible. I assume women need that same type of connection and I think it might be easier for them but I don't know. Being a man, it's just easier for me to speak about men. :)
I know this. I have walked through some dark, dark days and I can't imagine how I would have come through it without some very good friends who let me cry, let me talk and cry some more, who listened without judgment or unsolicited opinion, who asked questions that made me search my heart and who have prayed prayer after prayer for me and my relationship with God and people. I love them dearly and I thank God for bringing them into my life.
Grace and peace to you.
That said, yesterday was a struggle for me but today I feel lifted up. I feel like today is a better day because I have asked a few very, very close friends to pray for me and for some emotions I am battling. I believe I am feeling better today because their prayers are at work on my behalf. My point is this, if you don't have some close friends you can share everything with, you are in a tough situation. To go a step further, I am convinced men need men in their lives they can tell their sins to, tell their temptations to, tell their darkest fears to who will love them unconditionally. The tragedy is most men are afraid of that level of intimacy but I am here to tell you that once you make that step, your life will make a turn for the better. Granted, it has to be someone you can trust and someone who isn't going to gossip about what they've heard but once you find that person or group of people, more peace will enter your life than you think possible. I assume women need that same type of connection and I think it might be easier for them but I don't know. Being a man, it's just easier for me to speak about men. :)
I know this. I have walked through some dark, dark days and I can't imagine how I would have come through it without some very good friends who let me cry, let me talk and cry some more, who listened without judgment or unsolicited opinion, who asked questions that made me search my heart and who have prayed prayer after prayer for me and my relationship with God and people. I love them dearly and I thank God for bringing them into my life.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Storms and Rough Seas
Another day where I can't get my thoughts into words. Too much hurt, too much confusion and not enough peace makes writing hard. Today is just one of those days.
Let's talk Rangers. They go 10 innings with the Yankees and a future Hall of Fame closer throwing and little-heralded David Murphy drives in the winning run. Wow! Cliff Lee is on the mound tonight. While I wanted to watch one of my favorite shows tonight, as soon as I get home from church the Ranger game will be on and I'll have to try and catch a replay of the show. I'll be at the game Friday night for the Red Sox. I can't wait.
How about the airline attendant that opened the emergency chute and took off? He's being considered a folk hero by some. Craziness.
That's it. I haven't watched the news this week and don't know what's going on elsewhere. Oh yeah, Obama did make a stop in Texas. I think I'm done with politics.
If you read this and haven't read Crazy Love yet, go get it. Everyone I know who has read it thinks it is a great read and very thought-provoking.
That's all I've got today.
Grace and peace to you.
Let's talk Rangers. They go 10 innings with the Yankees and a future Hall of Fame closer throwing and little-heralded David Murphy drives in the winning run. Wow! Cliff Lee is on the mound tonight. While I wanted to watch one of my favorite shows tonight, as soon as I get home from church the Ranger game will be on and I'll have to try and catch a replay of the show. I'll be at the game Friday night for the Red Sox. I can't wait.
How about the airline attendant that opened the emergency chute and took off? He's being considered a folk hero by some. Craziness.
That's it. I haven't watched the news this week and don't know what's going on elsewhere. Oh yeah, Obama did make a stop in Texas. I think I'm done with politics.
If you read this and haven't read Crazy Love yet, go get it. Everyone I know who has read it thinks it is a great read and very thought-provoking.
That's all I've got today.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, August 09, 2010
I Wish You Enough
My life changed dramatically 16 years ago today. It's hard to believe it's been 16 years. It seems it was just a week a few weeks ago this tiny baby grabbed hold of my finger and grabbed hold of my heart. I haven't been the same since. She has been a priceless treasure, a gift from the Creator that has blessed my life time and time again. She has helped me understand unconditional love and how God feels about me. 16 years ago today, my life became better because my daughter was born. Thank you God.
This is a story I heard in the past but recently read again in an email from a friend. I think it strikes me more today than it did before. Today, goodbyes are harder for me, crushing at times. I find myself saying goodbye to very special people and it is a painful experience. Reading this poem stirs many emotions, one being what do I leave with the people I tell goodbye.
The whole story can be read here:http://www.bobperks.com/wish.htm
This is a story I heard in the past but recently read again in an email from a friend. I think it strikes me more today than it did before. Today, goodbyes are harder for me, crushing at times. I find myself saying goodbye to very special people and it is a painful experience. Reading this poem stirs many emotions, one being what do I leave with the people I tell goodbye.
The whole story can be read here:http://www.bobperks.com/wish.htm
Recently I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together. They had announced her departure and standing near the security gate, they hugged and he said, "I love you. I wish you enough." She in turn said, "Daddy, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Daddy."
They kissed and she left. He walked over toward the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say goodbye to someone knowing it would be forever?"
"Yes, I have," I replied. Saying that brought back memories I had of expressing my love and appreciation for all my Dad had done for me. Recognizing that his days were limited, I took the time to tell him face to face how much he meant to me.
So I knew what this man experiencing.
"Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever goodbye?" I asked.
"I am old and she lives much too far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is, the next trip back would be for my funeral," he said.
"When you were saying goodbye I heard you say, "I wish you enough." May I ask what that means?"
He began to smile. "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone." He paused for a moment and looking up as if trying to remember it in detail, he smiled even more."When we said 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them," he continued and then turning toward me he shared the following as if he
were reciting it from memory.
were reciting it from memory.
"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much
bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Goodbye."
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much
bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Goodbye."
I wish you enough.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
More Brain Tired Ramblings
I think I'm finally sleeping better but still not enough.
I'm tired of the Palin's being in the news. Not a fan of mom or daughter getting much attention.
Cuban might buy the Rangers? Tell me it isn't so. I think he loves owning the team but he hasn't brought a championship to Dallas yet. Let the baseball guys buy the baseball team. Please.
I'm tired of LeBron and I hope Miami wins 1 game this year. I enjoyed watching him play but doubt I will see any more of him than what is forced on me through ESPN highlights. I like Jordan and Magic's thoughts. Both said "I wanted to beat Bird/Jordan/Magic, not play with them." That's a competitor spirit.
Electronics not working used to never bother me. Now I just want to throw them out and get something else. I've lost patience for these devices not working when they are all supposed to be better.
I'm still thankful for good friends.
I love the Psalms. They are filled with heartfelt visits with God, many of the same heartfelt talks I have had with Him.
Grace and peace to you.
I'm tired of the Palin's being in the news. Not a fan of mom or daughter getting much attention.
Cuban might buy the Rangers? Tell me it isn't so. I think he loves owning the team but he hasn't brought a championship to Dallas yet. Let the baseball guys buy the baseball team. Please.
I'm tired of LeBron and I hope Miami wins 1 game this year. I enjoyed watching him play but doubt I will see any more of him than what is forced on me through ESPN highlights. I like Jordan and Magic's thoughts. Both said "I wanted to beat Bird/Jordan/Magic, not play with them." That's a competitor spirit.
Electronics not working used to never bother me. Now I just want to throw them out and get something else. I've lost patience for these devices not working when they are all supposed to be better.
I'm still thankful for good friends.
I love the Psalms. They are filled with heartfelt visits with God, many of the same heartfelt talks I have had with Him.
Grace and peace to you.
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
It's Only Tuesday?
Last week I kept thinking it was later in the week than it was. Today I find it hard to believe it's only Tuesday. Go figure.
I heard a spot on the news this morning about the Muslim Center they are wanting to build near Ground Zero in New York. Now, I must say some of the people opposing the center have gone over the imaginary line of good conduct but doesn't anyone in the Muslim community understand the sensitivity of this issue? It seems if they were really wanting to promote peace, they would get out and do something positive for the New York community instead of building their own fun center/prayer mosque.
I am very thankful for good friends. It's hard to imagine where I would be right now without some people who are praying for me and willing to help me in different ways.
My daughter takes incredible pictures. Photography isn't something she is aspiring to do as a profession but she has a great eye for a good picture. I may steal one from her one day and post it here.
Kids are an incredible blessing. I've got friends who are struggling today from the loss of a child and I am praying that God will give them healing and peace. I don't get to be around my kids as much as I want to and it is not an easy thing to cope with emotionally. I am thankful for every moment I have with them and pray each day that God will fill them up with all He knows they need to be strong in Him.
God is good.
Grace and peace to you.
I heard a spot on the news this morning about the Muslim Center they are wanting to build near Ground Zero in New York. Now, I must say some of the people opposing the center have gone over the imaginary line of good conduct but doesn't anyone in the Muslim community understand the sensitivity of this issue? It seems if they were really wanting to promote peace, they would get out and do something positive for the New York community instead of building their own fun center/prayer mosque.
I am very thankful for good friends. It's hard to imagine where I would be right now without some people who are praying for me and willing to help me in different ways.
My daughter takes incredible pictures. Photography isn't something she is aspiring to do as a profession but she has a great eye for a good picture. I may steal one from her one day and post it here.
Kids are an incredible blessing. I've got friends who are struggling today from the loss of a child and I am praying that God will give them healing and peace. I don't get to be around my kids as much as I want to and it is not an easy thing to cope with emotionally. I am thankful for every moment I have with them and pray each day that God will fill them up with all He knows they need to be strong in Him.
God is good.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, August 02, 2010
See The Light
To see the light, I need to look for the light.
In my darkest days, it is easy to leave my thoughts on the darkness that seems to overwhelm me. It is easy to get caught up in questions and accusations and emotions. I find myself questioning God and wondering why He isn't using His power the way I want Him to, asking if He has forgotten me, wondering what I've done that is so bad God won't reach down and help me. Yet all I have to do is take my eyes off of myself for an instant and I see the light of God shining all around me. It's there, I just have to be willing to open my eyes and look for it. I see the brightness of God shining in the people who are praying for me and who are helping me in ways big and small. I see it in the words of love spoken to me and in invitations to share a meal.
I want my heart to be attuned to God. I want it to be easy to see the light and have the darkness blocked from my sight. I want to rejoice in the warmth of God's light, I want to worship in the warmth of God's light, I want to take each step and breathe each breath in the warmth of God's light. It is there. He is there.
Grace and peace to you.
In my darkest days, it is easy to leave my thoughts on the darkness that seems to overwhelm me. It is easy to get caught up in questions and accusations and emotions. I find myself questioning God and wondering why He isn't using His power the way I want Him to, asking if He has forgotten me, wondering what I've done that is so bad God won't reach down and help me. Yet all I have to do is take my eyes off of myself for an instant and I see the light of God shining all around me. It's there, I just have to be willing to open my eyes and look for it. I see the brightness of God shining in the people who are praying for me and who are helping me in ways big and small. I see it in the words of love spoken to me and in invitations to share a meal.
I want my heart to be attuned to God. I want it to be easy to see the light and have the darkness blocked from my sight. I want to rejoice in the warmth of God's light, I want to worship in the warmth of God's light, I want to take each step and breathe each breath in the warmth of God's light. It is there. He is there.
Grace and peace to you.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Jesus Wept
43When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" 44The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.
Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."
Yesterday, a very dear friend reminded me of this story in Luke 11. He told me how many of us go through a death of some sort while we are still alive; we lose something, a child, a spouse, something truly important and the loss is like a death. As Jesus pulls us back into life from that death, as we begin to walk a little straighter, as our minds begin to untangle what happened and begins to focus on today, Jesus tells us to take the grave clothes off because we have come back from the dead.
I'm not doing an adequate job explaining it the way my friend did but it was a poignant moment in my day when we talked because it hit me again, in just the right way, that Jesus is waiting for me and is preparing my way so that I can remove the grave clothes and enter into a new life, a different life for sure but life. I don't forget the death or what was lost but I learn to life in a new way and I know Jesus is there.
As I reread the story, I remembered it included the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." Right then, when I read those words, I knew they were for me. I know Jesus has cried for me. I know Jesus has hurt for me and has shed tears for me, and I know he's waiting on the other side of this walk, ready for me to take the grave clothes off and to begin to live again.
For me, it was a beautiful story delivered at just the right time. Even more, it was a beautiful story reminding me of who is right in front of me, waiting, arms open, ready to lead me into new paths and new life. I haven't stepped out far enough to meet Him yet but I know He is there. Praise God.
Grace and peace to you.
Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."
Yesterday, a very dear friend reminded me of this story in Luke 11. He told me how many of us go through a death of some sort while we are still alive; we lose something, a child, a spouse, something truly important and the loss is like a death. As Jesus pulls us back into life from that death, as we begin to walk a little straighter, as our minds begin to untangle what happened and begins to focus on today, Jesus tells us to take the grave clothes off because we have come back from the dead.
I'm not doing an adequate job explaining it the way my friend did but it was a poignant moment in my day when we talked because it hit me again, in just the right way, that Jesus is waiting for me and is preparing my way so that I can remove the grave clothes and enter into a new life, a different life for sure but life. I don't forget the death or what was lost but I learn to life in a new way and I know Jesus is there.
As I reread the story, I remembered it included the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." Right then, when I read those words, I knew they were for me. I know Jesus has cried for me. I know Jesus has hurt for me and has shed tears for me, and I know he's waiting on the other side of this walk, ready for me to take the grave clothes off and to begin to live again.
For me, it was a beautiful story delivered at just the right time. Even more, it was a beautiful story reminding me of who is right in front of me, waiting, arms open, ready to lead me into new paths and new life. I haven't stepped out far enough to meet Him yet but I know He is there. Praise God.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Rollercoasters
I've never been a big fan of rollercoasters but have ridden several and might ride more in the future if I can get my legs in the cart. Several years ago, I was riding the Shockwave at Six Flags. There isn't much legroom so my knees were jammed against the front wall with my feet dangling above the floor. As we went through the first upside-down loop, I got a cramp in my hamstring and because of the force couldn't do anything but scream. The girl sitting next to me starting saying, "don't be scared, it will be over soon." Fortunately, she was a stranger so I didn't have to hear stories of me screaming on the roller coaster but that is the one incident that makes me hesitant to willingly get on a roller coaster. Yet, that is where I find myself right now, on an emotional rollercoaster. Emotions come and go and I can't predict which one is next. I described it to a friend as riding a rollercoaster in the dark because I don't know if I'm about to go up or go down.
I can tell you that I'm no fan of this emotional ride. Maybe there is benefit in some of it but I'm tired and just want to "be" for awhile. As I'm learning, what I want isn't all that important to the rest of the physical or spiritual worlds. I rationalize my down times by reminding myself that I have close friends who have been in much worse situations than my own yet my situation is the worst one I have experienced. Thankfully, I can gain insight from them and from their experiences where our paths are parallel. The other fear is that I don't know how long this ride will last. At least on a real rollercoaster, you can see the end. Not so with the emotional ride.
Today, I will just do my best to put one foot in front of the other and trust in the Lord to make things right. He certainly is acting on my timetable so I will also ask him for an extra dose of patience while I learn to wait on him, to be still knowing that He will fight for me against the spiritual forces that want to tear me down. My fight is not against flesh and blood but the powers of darkness. In that realm, I nothing more than a 90 pound weakling but I have faith that God is mighty, that He can part the Red Seas and calm the storms of my life if I will simply wait on Him.
Grace and peace to you.
I can tell you that I'm no fan of this emotional ride. Maybe there is benefit in some of it but I'm tired and just want to "be" for awhile. As I'm learning, what I want isn't all that important to the rest of the physical or spiritual worlds. I rationalize my down times by reminding myself that I have close friends who have been in much worse situations than my own yet my situation is the worst one I have experienced. Thankfully, I can gain insight from them and from their experiences where our paths are parallel. The other fear is that I don't know how long this ride will last. At least on a real rollercoaster, you can see the end. Not so with the emotional ride.
Today, I will just do my best to put one foot in front of the other and trust in the Lord to make things right. He certainly is acting on my timetable so I will also ask him for an extra dose of patience while I learn to wait on him, to be still knowing that He will fight for me against the spiritual forces that want to tear me down. My fight is not against flesh and blood but the powers of darkness. In that realm, I nothing more than a 90 pound weakling but I have faith that God is mighty, that He can part the Red Seas and calm the storms of my life if I will simply wait on Him.
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Petitions and Weekends
Several people have started a new petition for Decatur to be able to sell more alcohol. I'm not even sure what it's for but I think it's to allow liquor stores into the city. What a wonderful addition. I remember when the first election came up, it was all about being able to bring a big-name grocery store to town and extra tax dollars to fix our roads. How did that work out? We still have Wal-Mart and IGA and some very bumpy roads. My former yard did see an increase in the number of empty beer cans/bottles but that may have more to do with a changing demographic than alcohol sales themselves. Anyway, I just wish the people pushing these things would be honest and say it is simply for convenience, nothing more, nothing less. Do not misunderstand me, I'm not condemning the use of alcohol in a safe and responsible way, only the reasoning that is often employed to justify the decision.
The weekend is almost here and it is one I dread because of tasks that are before me. It will be a hard weekend and if you are in a praying mood, please pray for me to keep my head up and moving forward seeing what God has in front of me and for thanksgiving for the people who are helping me.
I stood in line for 2 hours last night with a friend waiting for his new iPhone. People will stand in line a long time for these things but don't want to spend more than an hour in church where they can find something much more valuable and useful for all eternity instead of something good until the next version comes out. What's wrong with us humans? The good part was that I was with a friend I love and respect and I didn't mind waiting it out and having a good time and good discussion over dinner.
God is love. I hope people will see God living in me this weekend and in the days to come.
Grace and peace to you.
The weekend is almost here and it is one I dread because of tasks that are before me. It will be a hard weekend and if you are in a praying mood, please pray for me to keep my head up and moving forward seeing what God has in front of me and for thanksgiving for the people who are helping me.
I stood in line for 2 hours last night with a friend waiting for his new iPhone. People will stand in line a long time for these things but don't want to spend more than an hour in church where they can find something much more valuable and useful for all eternity instead of something good until the next version comes out. What's wrong with us humans? The good part was that I was with a friend I love and respect and I didn't mind waiting it out and having a good time and good discussion over dinner.
God is love. I hope people will see God living in me this weekend and in the days to come.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
More Reading...Yeah!
It's been awhile since I could sit down and read a book. Too much going through my muddled mind but I finally finished one while on vacation and have started The Christian Atheist by Craig Groeschel. I got through Chapter 2 last night dealing with our shame. I didn't understand what shame did to us, how it worked in the deepest parts of who we are, until I started opening up and talking about it with some professional listeners. Shame is a tool of evil that is used to put us in our place, to remind us we are not worthy of God's love and that He can't really want a child like us, one who does bad things. Yet, the Bible is filled with stories of people who did shameful things and were reconciled with God. Peter may be one of my favorites. Jesus tells Peter that he will deny Jesus three times and Peter responds with (I'm paraphrasing a bit) "nope, not me, never." And then, guess what? Peter denies Jesus three times and then feels the grief of his actions. So what does Jesus do? He tells Peter to go and feed the flock, to proclaim the good news. Now, I would be inclined to go proclaim the good news quietly, still ashamed of my actions but Peter uses Pentecost for his pulpit. Do I think Peter still wishes he hadn't denied Jesus? You bet. Did Peter let his shame continue to hold him back? No.
I hope more and more Christians will learn to deal with their shame and guilt, to get it out and feel the forgiveness that God showers on us so that they may move forward with God and not be stuck in the past.
Grace and peace to you.
I hope more and more Christians will learn to deal with their shame and guilt, to get it out and feel the forgiveness that God showers on us so that they may move forward with God and not be stuck in the past.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The Christian Atheist
I started a new book last night titled The Christian Atheist by Craig Groeschel. I'm into it after 1 chapter because it's something I think I have experienced and called my "Intellectual Christian" phase. Basically, Groeschel brings up the question of why we call ourselves Christian but often don't live like we are trying to follow Christ. Does going to church on Sunday but doing little, if anything, to teach and reach the lost during the week signify real discipleship? Does talking to God but never listening to God signify discipleship? Does reading His word (Bible) on Sunday and setting the book on the coffee table the rest of the week signify real discipleship? I'm looking forward to getting deeper into the book. I don't think it's going to impact me as much as The Shack or Crazy Love but I might more closely identify with it.
I love the Psalms. Groeschel mentions Psalm 63 in part of the 1st chapter.
1 O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
3 Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
Some of these words are hard for me right now because I still feel somewhat disconnected from God yet the words resonate because I want to know God better - partially in hope that I will better understand what He has planned for me and might reveal why I have been through the season I have and, to a greater degree, to be closer to my Creator, my Savior, my LORD simply because He is who He is and loves me unconditionally for who I am.
Verse 3 stands out to me as I think about 2 dear friends. His love is better than life. Being in His presence is better than life. I continue to look forward to the day I can experience His love face to face and do not have to face the pain, the pitfalls and the evil of this world.
Grace and peace to you.
I love the Psalms. Groeschel mentions Psalm 63 in part of the 1st chapter.
1 O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
3 Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
Some of these words are hard for me right now because I still feel somewhat disconnected from God yet the words resonate because I want to know God better - partially in hope that I will better understand what He has planned for me and might reveal why I have been through the season I have and, to a greater degree, to be closer to my Creator, my Savior, my LORD simply because He is who He is and loves me unconditionally for who I am.
Verse 3 stands out to me as I think about 2 dear friends. His love is better than life. Being in His presence is better than life. I continue to look forward to the day I can experience His love face to face and do not have to face the pain, the pitfalls and the evil of this world.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, July 19, 2010
What's Up?
I've been away for a bit. I spent a week in Colorado with my kids and while the trip was hampered by some severely painful back issues, I cherished the time with them in the beautiful landscape that God created. I still think that God put South Fork, Colorado on earth so I would have a small glimpse of how wonderful Heaven will be.
While there, I finished a book co-authored by a good friend, David Terry, entitled The Original Sanctuary. I was struck by the idea that South Fork has been my original sanctuary, the place I felt I could go that was safe, where I could feel God's presence. My dream would be to spend a summer or own a house there. It might never happen but it is the place I always feel closest to God.
I continue to struggle with what God is doing in my life. A dear friend has reminded me of the saying "what doesn't kill us makes us stronger." I don't feel stronger but maybe, like working out, it takes time and perseverance to become stronger. I keep asking God where he is and what, if anything, he is doing in my life. I read David's words in the Psalms and can understand his questions so clearly. All the while I experience support and love from so many people and I know it comes from their heart and desire to by the hands and feet of God for me. Sometimes I can't help but think I need to spend more time exploring my belief that I would have made a great Israelite, someone who keeps seeing God do things and then turning around and wanting more from God done the way I want things done. He gives me manna while I try to demand prime rib.
Today, I am so very grateful for God's patience with me and His overwhelming forgiveness.
Grace and peace to you.
While there, I finished a book co-authored by a good friend, David Terry, entitled The Original Sanctuary. I was struck by the idea that South Fork has been my original sanctuary, the place I felt I could go that was safe, where I could feel God's presence. My dream would be to spend a summer or own a house there. It might never happen but it is the place I always feel closest to God.
I continue to struggle with what God is doing in my life. A dear friend has reminded me of the saying "what doesn't kill us makes us stronger." I don't feel stronger but maybe, like working out, it takes time and perseverance to become stronger. I keep asking God where he is and what, if anything, he is doing in my life. I read David's words in the Psalms and can understand his questions so clearly. All the while I experience support and love from so many people and I know it comes from their heart and desire to by the hands and feet of God for me. Sometimes I can't help but think I need to spend more time exploring my belief that I would have made a great Israelite, someone who keeps seeing God do things and then turning around and wanting more from God done the way I want things done. He gives me manna while I try to demand prime rib.
Today, I am so very grateful for God's patience with me and His overwhelming forgiveness.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Great Days, Crazy Days
LeBron is going to South Beach. Aren't we all better off knowing that big piece of information? I don't know what to think about the big ESPN special for his announcement.
It might rain. I should be a meteorologist. And how can the Rangers lose to Baltimore?
Every good bit of news is followed by something negative lately. I don't get it. I wonder if it is a test and, if it is, wonder if it's a test from God or from the evil one.
My daughter has made the decision to be baptized. I am so proud of her and full of joy for her decision to put on Christ. I love the imagery of baptism I find in Romans 6:1-8 - 1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. 6For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
8Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
I grew up in an environment that taught baptism is essential to salvation. I read Romans 6 and come away believing that baptism is essential to be united with Christ, not something that gives us a reward but something that gives us a daily direction and challenge - to be like Christ because we have now been united with him through baptism.
I'm sure I don't do a good job describing how incredibly important I find the process of baptism to be in starting us on a journey with Jesus but I'm eternally thankful that I can be intimately united with him through baptism.
I'm off for another blogging holiday as I try to catch loads of trout over the next week. Yea!
Grace and peace to you.
It might rain. I should be a meteorologist. And how can the Rangers lose to Baltimore?
Every good bit of news is followed by something negative lately. I don't get it. I wonder if it is a test and, if it is, wonder if it's a test from God or from the evil one.
My daughter has made the decision to be baptized. I am so proud of her and full of joy for her decision to put on Christ. I love the imagery of baptism I find in Romans 6:1-8 - 1What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. 6For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin— 7because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
8Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
I grew up in an environment that taught baptism is essential to salvation. I read Romans 6 and come away believing that baptism is essential to be united with Christ, not something that gives us a reward but something that gives us a daily direction and challenge - to be like Christ because we have now been united with him through baptism.
I'm sure I don't do a good job describing how incredibly important I find the process of baptism to be in starting us on a journey with Jesus but I'm eternally thankful that I can be intimately united with him through baptism.
I'm off for another blogging holiday as I try to catch loads of trout over the next week. Yea!
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, July 05, 2010
BOOM!
Last night was another fun night of making things go boom. I love the artillery shells.
I have noticed so many signs proclaiming "freedom is not free" leading up to the 4th and have contemplated on how true that statement rings. I know it is primarily intended to remind us of our fighting forces that protect this country but it relates the same to the fighting forces that are working to protect our hearts. Freedom comes from the cross and it was not free. Freedom comes from denying ourselves but it doesn't come easy. Freedom comes from confession but it is not without pain. Freedom is not free.
I look forward to the day when we can recall our troops from harms way while wondering if that day will ever come again. While I want to envision peace and prosperity for our nation and for the world, I can't help but look around and wonder if we have entered a time when fighting and the desire of nations won't only continue but will escalate.
I'm so thankful my life doesn't simply consist of what happens in this world. As much as I enjoy people and things that are here, I know that the true reward, the ultimate glory comes in a world after this one.
Baseball and more baseball this week while dodging the rain.
The Lord is my shepherd...
Grace and peace to you.
I have noticed so many signs proclaiming "freedom is not free" leading up to the 4th and have contemplated on how true that statement rings. I know it is primarily intended to remind us of our fighting forces that protect this country but it relates the same to the fighting forces that are working to protect our hearts. Freedom comes from the cross and it was not free. Freedom comes from denying ourselves but it doesn't come easy. Freedom comes from confession but it is not without pain. Freedom is not free.
I look forward to the day when we can recall our troops from harms way while wondering if that day will ever come again. While I want to envision peace and prosperity for our nation and for the world, I can't help but look around and wonder if we have entered a time when fighting and the desire of nations won't only continue but will escalate.
I'm so thankful my life doesn't simply consist of what happens in this world. As much as I enjoy people and things that are here, I know that the true reward, the ultimate glory comes in a world after this one.
Baseball and more baseball this week while dodging the rain.
The Lord is my shepherd...
Grace and peace to you.
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