Seems like all around me right now are people who are going through a storm. I read this article on a Greg Laurie post and thought it was a great reminder for us all today.
"Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God.
--Acts 27: 25
One night on a storm-tossed ship in the Mediterranean, the apostle Paul headed toward Rome. He had been persecuted and imprisoned, and he was going to appear before Caesar for judgment.
On the way, a horrendous storm came up. It was so bad that the sailors on the ship thought they were going to die. They hadn't seen the sun or stars for days; they didn't know where they were.
But Paul was able to stand up on the deck of that tempest-tossed ship and say to that fearful crew,
"I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me." (Acts 27:22--26)
It's a wonderful thing when we as Christians can say those words, "I believe God."
It's especially good to be able to say that in this crazy world that seems to get darker and stormier and even more wicked. In fact, we are living in a time when wrong seems to be right and right seems to be wrong. Everything is turned around.
But God is eternal, He never changes. He said to the prophet Malachi, " 'I am the Lord, I do not change' " (Malachi 3:6). We can trust Him. Like the apostle Paul, we can say, "I believe God."
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
What's Next?
If you have been reading my blog for long, you know I am not a fan of President Obama. But I do think we need to be praying fervently for Him. If I didn't think so before I definitely do after reading this article. Please join me.
100 days in office, coronated Messiah
Arms outstretched, he wears crown of thorns on his brow
Posted: April 25, 2009
7:13 pm Eastern
by Drew Zahn
© 2009 WorldNetDaily
"On his 100th day in office, President Obama will be "crowned" in messianic imagery at New York City's Union Square.
Artist Michael D'Antuono's painting "The Truth" – featuring Obama with his arms outstretched and wearing a crown of thorns upon his head – will be unveiled on April 29 at the Square's South Plaza.
According to a statement released about the portrait, "The 30" x 54" acrylic painting on canvas depicts President Obama appearing much like Jesus Christ on the Cross: atop his head, a crown of thorns; behind him, the dark veil being lifted (or lowered) on the Presidential Seal. But is he revealing or concealing, and is he being crucified or glorified?"
Even the title of the piece, "The Truth," suggests a play on biblical themes, as Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
"More than a presidential portrait," writes D'Antuono on a website touting the painting, "'The Truth' is a politically, religiously and socially-charged statement on our nation's current political climate and deep partisan divide that is sure to create a dialogue."
Like others in the news who have depicted Obama in Christ-like imagery, D'Antuono insists he isn't claiming the man is Messiah, but only inviting "individual interpretations."
"'The Truth,' like beauty, is in the eyes of the beholder," claims the exhibit's press release.
D'Antuono even invites the public to email him with reactions to the piece, answering his posed question, "What's your truth?"
As WND has reported, D'Antuono follows others who have cast Obama in messianic imagery.
In January, artist Matthew J. Clark paraded a sculpture of Obama riding a donkey and preceded by waving palm fronds, reminiscent of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem in the 21st chapter of Matthew as foretold by the prophet Zechariah: "Behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass."
Like D'Antuono, Clark was also unclear about whether his piece was proclaiming Obama to be the Christ or making some social commentary. Clark's website described the sculpture in vague terms:
"This project was inspired by my thoughts about 'icons' and religious symbols and whether they represent truth or merely represent," Clark's website reads. "The sculpture poses a question that relates to social conventions, metaphysics, and the collective response of society in reaction to fearful and uncertain times, but doesn't impose an answer. For me, it has much more to do with the general public as followers than any leader granted power."
Others, such as Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, have been far clearer in their nearly religious adoration of Obama. As WND reported, Farrakhan declared last year that when Obama talks, "the Messiah is absolutely speaking."
Addressing a large crowd behind a podium with a Nation of Islam Saviour's Day 2008 sign, Farrakhan proclaimed, "You are the instruments that God is going to use to bring about universal change, and that is why Barack has captured the youth. And he has involved young people in a political process that they didn't care anything about. That's a sign. When the Messiah speaks, the youth will hear, and the Messiah is absolutely speaking."
Farrakhan pointed out that the man Nation of Islam followers refer to as "the Savior," Fard Muhammad, had a black father and a white mother, just as Obama did.
"A black man with a white mother became a savior to us," he said. "A black man with a white mother could turn out to be one who can lift America from her fall."
WND previously reported a website called "Is Barack Obama the Messiah?" capturing the wave of euphoria that followed the Democratic senator's remarkable rise.
The site is topped by an Obama quote strategically ripped from a Jan. 7 speech at Dartmouth College just before the New Hampshire Primary in which he told students, "… a light will shine through that window, a beam of light will come down upon you, you will experience an epiphany, and you will suddenly realize that you must go to the polls and vote" for Obama.
WND also reported on near-religious experiences surrounding Obama on the campaign trail, as supporters who came to hear him speak on several occasions fainted in the middle of the candidate's speeches. As WND reported, some compared the fainting to fanatical swooning in the midst of a mesmerizing preacher; others, like radio host Michael Medved, thought the collapses were staged moments; and still others believed it was simply a matter of people standing in the crowds too long and growing dehydrated.
P.J. Gladnick of NewsBusters, in an article about D'Antuono's painting on the eve of the Obama administration's 100-day-mark, notes that the messianic parallels begun early in the presidential campaign don't seem to be stopping:
"The artist quite clearly portrays Obama as a latter day Christ-like figure, considering the outstretched arms and the crown of thorns. Obama worship, complete with halo images, has been noted before," writes Gladnick, "but it was nothing compared to current expressions in awe of 'The One' as we approach his hundredth day in office on Wednesday."
100 days in office, coronated Messiah
Arms outstretched, he wears crown of thorns on his brow
Posted: April 25, 2009
7:13 pm Eastern
by Drew Zahn
© 2009 WorldNetDaily
"On his 100th day in office, President Obama will be "crowned" in messianic imagery at New York City's Union Square.
Artist Michael D'Antuono's painting "The Truth" – featuring Obama with his arms outstretched and wearing a crown of thorns upon his head – will be unveiled on April 29 at the Square's South Plaza.
According to a statement released about the portrait, "The 30" x 54" acrylic painting on canvas depicts President Obama appearing much like Jesus Christ on the Cross: atop his head, a crown of thorns; behind him, the dark veil being lifted (or lowered) on the Presidential Seal. But is he revealing or concealing, and is he being crucified or glorified?"
Even the title of the piece, "The Truth," suggests a play on biblical themes, as Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
"More than a presidential portrait," writes D'Antuono on a website touting the painting, "'The Truth' is a politically, religiously and socially-charged statement on our nation's current political climate and deep partisan divide that is sure to create a dialogue."
Like others in the news who have depicted Obama in Christ-like imagery, D'Antuono insists he isn't claiming the man is Messiah, but only inviting "individual interpretations."
"'The Truth,' like beauty, is in the eyes of the beholder," claims the exhibit's press release.
D'Antuono even invites the public to email him with reactions to the piece, answering his posed question, "What's your truth?"
As WND has reported, D'Antuono follows others who have cast Obama in messianic imagery.
In January, artist Matthew J. Clark paraded a sculpture of Obama riding a donkey and preceded by waving palm fronds, reminiscent of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem in the 21st chapter of Matthew as foretold by the prophet Zechariah: "Behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass."
Like D'Antuono, Clark was also unclear about whether his piece was proclaiming Obama to be the Christ or making some social commentary. Clark's website described the sculpture in vague terms:
"This project was inspired by my thoughts about 'icons' and religious symbols and whether they represent truth or merely represent," Clark's website reads. "The sculpture poses a question that relates to social conventions, metaphysics, and the collective response of society in reaction to fearful and uncertain times, but doesn't impose an answer. For me, it has much more to do with the general public as followers than any leader granted power."
Others, such as Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, have been far clearer in their nearly religious adoration of Obama. As WND reported, Farrakhan declared last year that when Obama talks, "the Messiah is absolutely speaking."
Addressing a large crowd behind a podium with a Nation of Islam Saviour's Day 2008 sign, Farrakhan proclaimed, "You are the instruments that God is going to use to bring about universal change, and that is why Barack has captured the youth. And he has involved young people in a political process that they didn't care anything about. That's a sign. When the Messiah speaks, the youth will hear, and the Messiah is absolutely speaking."
Farrakhan pointed out that the man Nation of Islam followers refer to as "the Savior," Fard Muhammad, had a black father and a white mother, just as Obama did.
"A black man with a white mother became a savior to us," he said. "A black man with a white mother could turn out to be one who can lift America from her fall."
WND previously reported a website called "Is Barack Obama the Messiah?" capturing the wave of euphoria that followed the Democratic senator's remarkable rise.
The site is topped by an Obama quote strategically ripped from a Jan. 7 speech at Dartmouth College just before the New Hampshire Primary in which he told students, "… a light will shine through that window, a beam of light will come down upon you, you will experience an epiphany, and you will suddenly realize that you must go to the polls and vote" for Obama.
WND also reported on near-religious experiences surrounding Obama on the campaign trail, as supporters who came to hear him speak on several occasions fainted in the middle of the candidate's speeches. As WND reported, some compared the fainting to fanatical swooning in the midst of a mesmerizing preacher; others, like radio host Michael Medved, thought the collapses were staged moments; and still others believed it was simply a matter of people standing in the crowds too long and growing dehydrated.
P.J. Gladnick of NewsBusters, in an article about D'Antuono's painting on the eve of the Obama administration's 100-day-mark, notes that the messianic parallels begun early in the presidential campaign don't seem to be stopping:
"The artist quite clearly portrays Obama as a latter day Christ-like figure, considering the outstretched arms and the crown of thorns. Obama worship, complete with halo images, has been noted before," writes Gladnick, "but it was nothing compared to current expressions in awe of 'The One' as we approach his hundredth day in office on Wednesday."
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Graduation Time
It is time for high school graduation celebrations. Today I hosted a tea for two of our senior girls. In looking for help for a blessing to read over them, I found this story and thought it was worth a post.
Graduation Blessings - God Bless Us Every One
"They walked in tandem, each of the ninety-three students filing into the already crowded auditorium. With rich maroon gowns flowing and the traditional caps, they looked almost as grown up as they felt.Dads swallowed hard behind broad smiles, and moms freely brushed away tears. This class would not pray during the commencements ----- not by choice but because of a recent court ruling prohibiting it. The principal and several students were careful to stay within the guidelines allowed by the rules. They gave inspirational and challenging speeches, but no one mentioned divine guidance and no one asked for blessings on the graduates or their families. The speeches were nice, but they were routine......until the final speech received a standing ovation. A solitary student walked proudly to the microphone. He stood still and silent for just a moment, and then, it happened. All 92 students, every single one of them, suddenly SNEEZED!!!!The student on stage simply looked at the audience and said, "GOD BLESS YOU, each and every one of you!" And he walked off stage...The audience exploded into applause. The graduating class found a unique way to invoke God's blessing on their future with or without the court's approval."
I call that creative thinking! Don't know how these kids grow up so fast! It just seems like yesterday we were going to camp.
Graduation Blessings - God Bless Us Every One
"They walked in tandem, each of the ninety-three students filing into the already crowded auditorium. With rich maroon gowns flowing and the traditional caps, they looked almost as grown up as they felt.Dads swallowed hard behind broad smiles, and moms freely brushed away tears. This class would not pray during the commencements ----- not by choice but because of a recent court ruling prohibiting it. The principal and several students were careful to stay within the guidelines allowed by the rules. They gave inspirational and challenging speeches, but no one mentioned divine guidance and no one asked for blessings on the graduates or their families. The speeches were nice, but they were routine......until the final speech received a standing ovation. A solitary student walked proudly to the microphone. He stood still and silent for just a moment, and then, it happened. All 92 students, every single one of them, suddenly SNEEZED!!!!The student on stage simply looked at the audience and said, "GOD BLESS YOU, each and every one of you!" And he walked off stage...The audience exploded into applause. The graduating class found a unique way to invoke God's blessing on their future with or without the court's approval."
I call that creative thinking! Don't know how these kids grow up so fast! It just seems like yesterday we were going to camp.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Emergency Room Visit
I spent nine hours today in the emergency room with what I thought was a heart attack. Monday I woke up to a chest cold. Tight chest and dry cough. I went to the doctor yesterday afternoon when things weren't getting better knowing that I have a really busy weekend and could not just wait to get better on my own. He gave me an antibiotic and cough syrup. Went to bed early and then awoke about 11:30 coughing so I decided to take some Nyquil (which always kills the cough and allows me to sleep) Well, then I awoke about 3:00 to very sharp chest pains and difficulty breathing. When I sat up I broke out in a cold sweat. I woke Steve up and told him I needed to go to the emergency room, that I thought I was having a heart attack. They took me right away and did an EKG but it did not show any abnormalities. They gave me a nitroglycerin and then a little later I was sick to my stomach. After vomiting a little, the pain subsided for about 15 minutes, and then it returned with a vengeance so they gave me 2 shots of morphine. That knocked me out :) They did blood work and then sent me for a chemical stress test. Fortunately, that showed there were no heart problems. My heart is strong and I have no blockages. Praising God for that news! So nine hours later I left with a diagnosis of esophageal spasm (which is related to acid reflux), two more medications to take.
I didn't panic during any of this process and did have somewhat of a peace, but at the same time I kept saying "God why now?". I have so much to do this week to get things in order for a tea I am hosting on Saturday for two of our senior girls. I had asked for a group of ladies to pray for me yesterday and was wondering why once again God was choosing to answer my prayer in a way I could not immediately see? But it was okay, I have learned that His ways are not my ways and I trust Him. But I am being honest in saying that if it had been my heart and I had been hospitalized I wonder if I could have remained at peace? I hope so.
I didn't panic during any of this process and did have somewhat of a peace, but at the same time I kept saying "God why now?". I have so much to do this week to get things in order for a tea I am hosting on Saturday for two of our senior girls. I had asked for a group of ladies to pray for me yesterday and was wondering why once again God was choosing to answer my prayer in a way I could not immediately see? But it was okay, I have learned that His ways are not my ways and I trust Him. But I am being honest in saying that if it had been my heart and I had been hospitalized I wonder if I could have remained at peace? I hope so.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Can Not Believe It!
Did you see in the news today the footage of the Miss USA Pageant last night and how Miss California, Carrie Prejean, was asked a loaded question by Perez Hilton (who is he anyway???). Anyway.. she was asked "“Vermont recently became the 4th state to legalize same-sex marriage. Do you think every state should follow suit. Why or why not?”
First of all who in the world allowed that question to be submitted?? What is a neutral answer to that question? Once again the homosexual agenda was being forced. But Carrie stood up for her beliefs and did not compromise and stated that she actually believes that marriage is between one man and one woman.
The reports are that she was the front runner to win until that answer, and she just got runner up. Because Perez (who is a homosexual) rated her so low it tanked her scores. Fortunately, she has been asked to speak on several different shows, where she has been able to say that she would not change her answer, even if it meant the crown.
So my question is how does one judge with his own agenda get to ask a question that is that volatile? If a Christian judge had asked the same question and had rated her high because he approved of her answer would not everyone be yelling "unfair"??
May the Lord bless us all with the courage of Carrie, to stand up for His truth regardless of the personal cost. May we all daily remember to pray 2 Chronicles 7:14 and beg for God to heal our land. Our country is not just going to turn back to Him on their own.
First of all who in the world allowed that question to be submitted?? What is a neutral answer to that question? Once again the homosexual agenda was being forced. But Carrie stood up for her beliefs and did not compromise and stated that she actually believes that marriage is between one man and one woman.
The reports are that she was the front runner to win until that answer, and she just got runner up. Because Perez (who is a homosexual) rated her so low it tanked her scores. Fortunately, she has been asked to speak on several different shows, where she has been able to say that she would not change her answer, even if it meant the crown.
So my question is how does one judge with his own agenda get to ask a question that is that volatile? If a Christian judge had asked the same question and had rated her high because he approved of her answer would not everyone be yelling "unfair"??
May the Lord bless us all with the courage of Carrie, to stand up for His truth regardless of the personal cost. May we all daily remember to pray 2 Chronicles 7:14 and beg for God to heal our land. Our country is not just going to turn back to Him on their own.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Give Us This Day...
"Day by day we are given not what we want but what we need. Sometimes it is a feast and sometimes....sweet crumbs. but by faith we believe it is enough."
Barbara Brown Taylor
Barbara Brown Taylor
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Husband Accolades
I know that I have bragged on Steve before, but here are a few more things about him that I love.
-he unloads the dishwasher
-he does the laundry
-he fills my cpap machine up with water for me every night
-he keeps the toilet paper dispenser filled with toilet paper
-he refills the napkin dispenser
-he NEVER leaves the seat up on the toilet
-he always compliments my meals and says "thank you"
-AND BEST OF ALL...he rubs my feet
Now there are many, many more important things Steve does but what makes these unique is that he does all these faithfully without me ever asking or saying a word. They are all things that he doesn't have to do, none of them are major time consumers, but he just does them out of love for me. I try to tell him thank you often, as I never want him to think that I take all the things he does for granted.
Saw these quotes in "Readers Digest" about marriage and thought they were good.
"The formula for a happy marriage? It's the same one for living in California: when you find a fault, don't dwell on it." Jay Trachman
"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." Mignon McLaughlin
"A happy marriage is the union of two forgivers." Ruth Bell Graham
-he unloads the dishwasher
-he does the laundry
-he fills my cpap machine up with water for me every night
-he keeps the toilet paper dispenser filled with toilet paper
-he refills the napkin dispenser
-he NEVER leaves the seat up on the toilet
-he always compliments my meals and says "thank you"
-AND BEST OF ALL...he rubs my feet
Now there are many, many more important things Steve does but what makes these unique is that he does all these faithfully without me ever asking or saying a word. They are all things that he doesn't have to do, none of them are major time consumers, but he just does them out of love for me. I try to tell him thank you often, as I never want him to think that I take all the things he does for granted.
Saw these quotes in "Readers Digest" about marriage and thought they were good.
"The formula for a happy marriage? It's the same one for living in California: when you find a fault, don't dwell on it." Jay Trachman
"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." Mignon McLaughlin
"A happy marriage is the union of two forgivers." Ruth Bell Graham
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Lowering The Veil
Steve and I are blessed to be in a Bible Study on Wednesday nights where we are going through A.W. Tozer's book "Pursuit of God". Our discussion tonight centered around our ability to come into God's presence because when Jesus died for us the curtain of the temple was torn in half. It is just amazing to think that only the high priest were allowed to enter into God's presence in the OT, but now we are all invited. How can that be? I am definitely not as holy as a high priest? Because Jesus is the ultimate high priest and He made it possible for all of us to be invited into God's presence. So Tozer asks this question "Why do we consent to abide all our days just outside the Holy of Holies and never enter to look upon God. 'Let me see Thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is they voice, and thy countenance is comely' (Song of Solomon 2:14) We sense the call is for us, but still we fail to draw near, and the years pass and we grow old and tired in the outer courts of the tabernacle. What hinders us?"
Tozer says it is our fleshly nature. Not things we do, but who we are. "To be specific, the self-sins are self-righteousness, self-pity, self-confidence, self-sufficiency, self-admiration, self-love and a host of others like them."
So what can we do about it? The only thing we can do is bring our self-sins to the cross and lay them there for judgement. "God must do everything for us. Our part is to yield and trust. We must confess, forsake and repudiate the self-life and then reckon it reconciled."
Again this lesson went hand in hand with our Ladies Bible Class lesson this morning which was "Rendering Your Heart". The lesson was on David and Psalm 51. If you have not read that Psalm lately, take some time and you will encounter what it means to really come into God's presence. Just lay it all at His feet and be assured that His mercy, kindness and grace will cover the multitude of your sins. Then praise God that He is who He says He is and praise our Lord Jesus for His work on the cross. Then enjoy God's presence.
Tozer says it is our fleshly nature. Not things we do, but who we are. "To be specific, the self-sins are self-righteousness, self-pity, self-confidence, self-sufficiency, self-admiration, self-love and a host of others like them."
So what can we do about it? The only thing we can do is bring our self-sins to the cross and lay them there for judgement. "God must do everything for us. Our part is to yield and trust. We must confess, forsake and repudiate the self-life and then reckon it reconciled."
Again this lesson went hand in hand with our Ladies Bible Class lesson this morning which was "Rendering Your Heart". The lesson was on David and Psalm 51. If you have not read that Psalm lately, take some time and you will encounter what it means to really come into God's presence. Just lay it all at His feet and be assured that His mercy, kindness and grace will cover the multitude of your sins. Then praise God that He is who He says He is and praise our Lord Jesus for His work on the cross. Then enjoy God's presence.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Resurrection Realizations
Hope everyone had a wonderful resurrection celebration. It is impossible to come through Easter weekend without being untouched by the sacrifice that Jesus made for us and once again being amazed by the victory that He won for us. Today a couple of things have been on my mind. First of all even though my robe will be white in heaven because of Him (Revelation 7:9, 7:13 and 7:15) His robe will still have blood on it. Even in eternity it is His blood that continually cleanses me from all sin.
"He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God." Revelation 19:13
Secondly, I cannot even wrap my mind that the same resurrection power that raised Christ from the dead is living in me. "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you." Romans 8:11
Why is it I so often feel powerless if this kind of power resides inside of me? Next time Satan tries to convince me of my powerlessness, I need to remember to quote this scripture to Him and know that God's resurrection power lives inside of me. How awesome is that?
"He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God." Revelation 19:13
Secondly, I cannot even wrap my mind that the same resurrection power that raised Christ from the dead is living in me. "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you." Romans 8:11
Why is it I so often feel powerless if this kind of power resides inside of me? Next time Satan tries to convince me of my powerlessness, I need to remember to quote this scripture to Him and know that God's resurrection power lives inside of me. How awesome is that?
Saturday, April 11, 2009
He Is Risen
This is the first Easter weekend in 15 years that I was not committed at Leadership Training For Christ. I tried to go down last year but it was just too hard on me to walk the long hallways. I didn't want to ask Steve to push me around in the wheelchair (and he even offered). So I wanted to take advantage of the slower pace this weekend and really concentrate on the ressurection of my Lord Jesus.
So last night Steve and I went to our first Good Friday service at the Presbyterian church. (first Good Friday and first Presbyterian service). We enjoyed the simple service of readings and music in a small environment. Focusing on the crucifixion actually prepared our hearts to focus on the ressurection.
Tonight we went to Prestonwood Baptist to particpate in their Saturday night Easter service. It was a great celebration of the ressurection. There were two songs that caused tears to flow tonight. The first was "They Didn't Know" and the second was "In Christ Alone".
Jack Graham then preached a sermon that reinforced a message that the Lord has been giving me for a few weeks now. If I truly am a believer in Christ, His ressurection and that He is in Heaven waiting for me than it should impact the way I live today. Every day is a gift and I must be present to receive it. His text was 1 Peter 1:3-5 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time."
Keeping an eternal perspective makes every day extroadinary. Heaven is just not a location or destination, it is our motivation. While he was preaching I could not help but remember a song I used to love by Newsong called "Fingertips and Noses". If only I would keep my eyes to the skies in anticipation of my Lord's return, I am sure I would live life differently.
Hope you have a wonderful Ressurection Celebration!
Up in the hills somewhere in Kentucky
In a little old school way back in the nothing
Where special kids born with special needs
Are sent to learn life's ABCs
Their teacher, Mrs. Jones, tells them all about Jesus
How in the twinkling of an eye He's coming back to get us
About streets of gold and pearly gates
How they want to go, they just can't wait
And she can't keep them in their seats
They're all at the windows straining to see
And it's
Fingertips and noses pressed to the windowpanes
Longing eyes, expectant hearts for Him to come again
All they know is that they love Him so
And if He said He'd come, He's coming
And they can't keep their windows clean
For fingertips and noses
She tried to explain to the kids about His coming
She tried to calm them down, but they just wouldn't listen
They just giggled and they clapped their hands
They're so excited that He's coming for them
And the first thing you know they're out of their seats
Back at the windows straining to see
Where will Jesus find us when He comes again?
Will we be like little children waiting just for Him?
With our
Fingertips and noses pressed to the windowpanes
Longing eyes, expectant hearts for Him to come again
All we know is that we love Him so
And if He said He'd come, He's coming
And we can't keep our windows clean
For our fingertips and noses
So last night Steve and I went to our first Good Friday service at the Presbyterian church. (first Good Friday and first Presbyterian service). We enjoyed the simple service of readings and music in a small environment. Focusing on the crucifixion actually prepared our hearts to focus on the ressurection.
Tonight we went to Prestonwood Baptist to particpate in their Saturday night Easter service. It was a great celebration of the ressurection. There were two songs that caused tears to flow tonight. The first was "They Didn't Know" and the second was "In Christ Alone".
Jack Graham then preached a sermon that reinforced a message that the Lord has been giving me for a few weeks now. If I truly am a believer in Christ, His ressurection and that He is in Heaven waiting for me than it should impact the way I live today. Every day is a gift and I must be present to receive it. His text was 1 Peter 1:3-5 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time."
Keeping an eternal perspective makes every day extroadinary. Heaven is just not a location or destination, it is our motivation. While he was preaching I could not help but remember a song I used to love by Newsong called "Fingertips and Noses". If only I would keep my eyes to the skies in anticipation of my Lord's return, I am sure I would live life differently.
Hope you have a wonderful Ressurection Celebration!
Up in the hills somewhere in Kentucky
In a little old school way back in the nothing
Where special kids born with special needs
Are sent to learn life's ABCs
Their teacher, Mrs. Jones, tells them all about Jesus
How in the twinkling of an eye He's coming back to get us
About streets of gold and pearly gates
How they want to go, they just can't wait
And she can't keep them in their seats
They're all at the windows straining to see
And it's
Fingertips and noses pressed to the windowpanes
Longing eyes, expectant hearts for Him to come again
All they know is that they love Him so
And if He said He'd come, He's coming
And they can't keep their windows clean
For fingertips and noses
She tried to explain to the kids about His coming
She tried to calm them down, but they just wouldn't listen
They just giggled and they clapped their hands
They're so excited that He's coming for them
And the first thing you know they're out of their seats
Back at the windows straining to see
Where will Jesus find us when He comes again?
Will we be like little children waiting just for Him?
With our
Fingertips and noses pressed to the windowpanes
Longing eyes, expectant hearts for Him to come again
All we know is that we love Him so
And if He said He'd come, He's coming
And we can't keep our windows clean
For our fingertips and noses
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
This is an appropriate devotional thought for this Good Friday, that touched my heart from Michael Card.
He Shed His Blood So I Can Be White As Snow
"'Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.' Hebrews 13:12
The love of Jesus washed Golgotha in cardinal hues. Darkening to terracotta, and then to nearly black, His blood left a mark on thorns, iron, wood, and soil. And it stained the hands of His oppressors. But here is an enduring mystery of the cross: When you kneel there, the dark stains on your hands disappear. By the miracle of grace, the blood of Christ cleanses you completely. “The blood of Jesus…purifies us from all sin,” wrote John (I John 1:7).
According to Revelation, the miracle of Jesus’ blood will be one of the grand hymns of eternity: 'You are worthy…because you were slain,and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.' (Revelation 5:9) Even in heaven, Jesus will appear 'dressed in a robe dipped in blood' (Revelation 19:13). But if you have let His blood stain you, you will be as white as snow.
Prayer
Jesus, You who bled and died for me,
Bring me now to the foot of Your cross.
Let me see Your wounds.
Let me hear the sound of Your blood
crying out to the Father…for me.
By Your grace give me to understand,
as much as I am able, that it was my sin
that brought such violence to You,
and Your love that allowed it.
I fall before You in thanksgiving for
the grace of cleansing through Your blood.
Praise You, my Savior!
Praise You for all Your have done!
Amen"
He Shed His Blood So I Can Be White As Snow
"'Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.' Hebrews 13:12
The love of Jesus washed Golgotha in cardinal hues. Darkening to terracotta, and then to nearly black, His blood left a mark on thorns, iron, wood, and soil. And it stained the hands of His oppressors. But here is an enduring mystery of the cross: When you kneel there, the dark stains on your hands disappear. By the miracle of grace, the blood of Christ cleanses you completely. “The blood of Jesus…purifies us from all sin,” wrote John (I John 1:7).
According to Revelation, the miracle of Jesus’ blood will be one of the grand hymns of eternity: 'You are worthy…because you were slain,and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.' (Revelation 5:9) Even in heaven, Jesus will appear 'dressed in a robe dipped in blood' (Revelation 19:13). But if you have let His blood stain you, you will be as white as snow.
Prayer
Jesus, You who bled and died for me,
Bring me now to the foot of Your cross.
Let me see Your wounds.
Let me hear the sound of Your blood
crying out to the Father…for me.
By Your grace give me to understand,
as much as I am able, that it was my sin
that brought such violence to You,
and Your love that allowed it.
I fall before You in thanksgiving for
the grace of cleansing through Your blood.
Praise You, my Savior!
Praise You for all Your have done!
Amen"
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Ah-ha Moment
Tomorrow marks the 4th anniversary of my car accident. It is hard to believe that it has been that long ago, and yet it seems like yesterday. One of the things I have struggled with over the past four years has been "what was the purpose?". Not so much about the accident itself, but why the Lord did not heal me completely. Don't get me wrong, I try to be thankful for what He did do and the fact that I do have a leg and it did not have to be amputated, I am indeed grateful for. But everyday, the pain I have been left with reminds me over and over again that I am not completely healed.
Well, this week God revealed the purpose for me. I am currently in three Bible studies. One is with my Life Group "God Is Closer Than You Think", one is in Ladies Bible Class "I Saw The Lord" and the last is on Wednesday evenings "The Pursuit of God". I don't think it is a coincidence that all three of these studies are interconnected. I think it is deliberate on God's part to get my attention. (yes, it is hard to get my attention). I began to hear Him speaking over the weekend, but yesterday afternoon He came through loud and clear and I did hear him. There was no mistaking His voice.
This is a quote I wrote down in yesterday morning's study "God keeps me in a deficit position so I will realize His strength and the way He completes me. He will always call me to be over my head so that He can show me His sufficiency."
Then in last night's study we were talking about God asking Abraham to sacrifice Issac. A.W. Tozer's thoughts on the issue are that Abraham had elevated Issac to a place in his heart as his beloved son that replaced God's place. He says this about the sacrifice "
God let the suffering old man go through it up to the point where He knew there would be no retreat and then forbade him to lay a hand upon the boy. To the wondering patriarch He know says in effect 'It's all right Abraham, I never intended that you should actually slay the lad. I only wanted to remove him from the temple of your heart that I might reign unchallenged there. I wanted to correct the perversion in your love. Now you may have the boy sound and well."
That was my ah-ha moment. See more painful than losing my leg strength in my accident has been the lost of "my ministry". Notice I called it "my ministry"...that would be the problem. I did not see my ministry with children as God's ministry. I had too much pride in it. I took pleasure when other's noticed and would invite me to do a workshop or presentation on how things were done at Richardson East. Don't get me wrong, I would include God in my ministry by asking His blessing quite frequently, but it was always AFTER I had made the plans. I never asked Him to lead it, just to bless it. I know I have posted before that I have learned I was too busy "doing for God" and not "being with God". I actually had to have ministry removed from me so that God could once again take His proper position in the throne of my heart. But then because I could not see that I have allowed endless hours of television watching and being on the computer to take up the space He has wanted to regain.
I now join Tozer in praying this prayer "Father, I want to know Thee, but my cowardly heart fears to give up its toys. I cannot part with them without inward bleeding, and I do not try to hide from Thee the terror of the parting. I come trembling, but I do come. Please root from my heart all those things which I have cherished so long and which have become a very part of my living self, so that Thou mayest enter and dwell there without a rival. Then shalt Thou make the place of Thy feet glorious. Then shall my heart have no need of the sun to shine in it, for Thyself wilt be the light of it, and there shall be no night there." In Jesus Name.
Amen.
I am thankful to God for this revelation and pray that He will continue to reveal Himself to me. I know He will because that is what He has promised in Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Well, this week God revealed the purpose for me. I am currently in three Bible studies. One is with my Life Group "God Is Closer Than You Think", one is in Ladies Bible Class "I Saw The Lord" and the last is on Wednesday evenings "The Pursuit of God". I don't think it is a coincidence that all three of these studies are interconnected. I think it is deliberate on God's part to get my attention. (yes, it is hard to get my attention). I began to hear Him speaking over the weekend, but yesterday afternoon He came through loud and clear and I did hear him. There was no mistaking His voice.
This is a quote I wrote down in yesterday morning's study "God keeps me in a deficit position so I will realize His strength and the way He completes me. He will always call me to be over my head so that He can show me His sufficiency."
Then in last night's study we were talking about God asking Abraham to sacrifice Issac. A.W. Tozer's thoughts on the issue are that Abraham had elevated Issac to a place in his heart as his beloved son that replaced God's place. He says this about the sacrifice "
God let the suffering old man go through it up to the point where He knew there would be no retreat and then forbade him to lay a hand upon the boy. To the wondering patriarch He know says in effect 'It's all right Abraham, I never intended that you should actually slay the lad. I only wanted to remove him from the temple of your heart that I might reign unchallenged there. I wanted to correct the perversion in your love. Now you may have the boy sound and well."
That was my ah-ha moment. See more painful than losing my leg strength in my accident has been the lost of "my ministry". Notice I called it "my ministry"...that would be the problem. I did not see my ministry with children as God's ministry. I had too much pride in it. I took pleasure when other's noticed and would invite me to do a workshop or presentation on how things were done at Richardson East. Don't get me wrong, I would include God in my ministry by asking His blessing quite frequently, but it was always AFTER I had made the plans. I never asked Him to lead it, just to bless it. I know I have posted before that I have learned I was too busy "doing for God" and not "being with God". I actually had to have ministry removed from me so that God could once again take His proper position in the throne of my heart. But then because I could not see that I have allowed endless hours of television watching and being on the computer to take up the space He has wanted to regain.
I now join Tozer in praying this prayer "Father, I want to know Thee, but my cowardly heart fears to give up its toys. I cannot part with them without inward bleeding, and I do not try to hide from Thee the terror of the parting. I come trembling, but I do come. Please root from my heart all those things which I have cherished so long and which have become a very part of my living self, so that Thou mayest enter and dwell there without a rival. Then shalt Thou make the place of Thy feet glorious. Then shall my heart have no need of the sun to shine in it, for Thyself wilt be the light of it, and there shall be no night there." In Jesus Name.
Amen.
I am thankful to God for this revelation and pray that He will continue to reveal Himself to me. I know He will because that is what He has promised in Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Childhood Friends
Today I had a six hour lunch at the Cheesecake Factory with two girls from my high school youth group. One I hadn't seen in about five years and the other forty years. Jane had reconnected with me via Facebook and when she asked if we could have lunch, I called Carol to see if she wanted to join us. We had a great time catching up. We talked about many things but one of the things that we talked about is what it was in our backgrounds that helped all of to remain faithful to the Lord. We all agreed that our youth group significantly contributed to that . We all agreed that the youth group was where we had our identity. It was not at school. While we all had friends at school our best friends were in the youth group. We had much more fun doing youth group activities than any activities school offered. Every Friday night after football games there was an activity at the building, so even though we probably attended 5 or more high schools we would all come together and eat and play together.
It was interesting to share our stories of faith and see all the places the Lord has taken us. It made me want to get together with other friends I have lost touch with and see where life has taken them as well.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Not The Song Of My Youth
If you have been reading my blog for very long, you know I love to post about song lyrics that speak to me. Today as I was getting dressed for a luncheon, I had my cable station on the Contemporary Music station and a song came on that I did not think I had heard before (although I have the CD, so I am sure I had) Nevertheless when it started, I thought to myself this is not the song of my childhood, just the words. But it is so filled with truth about how Satan takes us down the road to sin in such small steps at a time that eventually we are waist deep in it, and often have left a path of destruction. See what you think.
Slow Fade by Casting Crowns
Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands
As darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you
That are sure to follow
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade
It's a slow fade
Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattering leads to compromises
The end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises
Leave broken hearts astray
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
Slow Fade by Casting Crowns
Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands
As darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you
That are sure to follow
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade
It's a slow fade
Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattering leads to compromises
The end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises
Leave broken hearts astray
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking
It's a slow fade
When you give yourself away
It's a slow fade
When black and white are turned to gray
And thoughts invade, choices are made
A price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
Sunday, April 05, 2009
A Bird's View
Yes, I know I am not always original in my posts, but sometimes you just have to share a good story or quote :)
Ginger Steinmetz sent this out tonight and I thought it was really good. She said Lynda Monroe gave it to her (to make sure everyone gets proper credit)
THE BUZZARD:
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.
THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.
THE BUMBLEBEE:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up! That's the answer, the escape route and the solution to any problem! Just look up.
Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, But faith looks up!
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and trust in our Creator who loves us.
Ginger Steinmetz sent this out tonight and I thought it was really good. She said Lynda Monroe gave it to her (to make sure everyone gets proper credit)
THE BUZZARD:
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.
THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.
THE BUMBLEBEE:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up! That's the answer, the escape route and the solution to any problem! Just look up.
Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, But faith looks up!
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and trust in our Creator who loves us.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Times Are Changin'
My friend Andrea sent me this and I thought it was fun for those of us who are Baby Boomers to take a trip down memory lane,
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints. We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking. As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat. We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank koolade made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because.
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING ! We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem. We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms.......WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays,made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's ho use and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them! Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of.
They actually sided with the law!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of them . . . CONGRATULATIONS!
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints. We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking. As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat. We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank koolade made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because.
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING ! We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem. We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms.......WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays,made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's ho use and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them! Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of.
They actually sided with the law!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of them . . . CONGRATULATIONS!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Happy 40th Anniversary Mother and Daddy
Today my parents celebrated 40 years of marriage. Steve and I were blessed to celebrate it with them. We went to a Chinese buffet on Park (don't remember the name)and it was very good. I actually ate Sushi for the first time and really enjoyed it. We then just enjoyed the pleasure of each other's company for the rest of the day.
I wrote them this poem that cannot begin to express all that I could say about their 40 years of marriage and what a blessing it has been to see them loving each other and their God all these years.
Celebrating 40 Years Of Love
Forty years ago today you two become one,
After you each had each other’s heart won.
But we know that the real matchmaker was God
Today we thank Him and praises do laud.
You came together as husband and wife
And committed to the plan He had for your life.
It included doubling your families to six,
A better mother or father we each could not pick.
Side by side you served the Lord from the start
You have shown each of us the look of His heart.
Your love for each other has been centered in Him
Sacrificial giving, serving and lost souls to win.
Your children for sure have all had the blessing
Of never wondering, or worrying or guessing,
If the two of you would stay faithful and true
We rise up and bless you, for praise you are due.
For long after the Lord has called you both home
The roots of your love will continue to grow.
A lifetime of lessons planted deep in our hearts
Will be eternal even when we’re apart.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
How Can It Be??
So I really don't think I can be accused of having my head in the sand, but the things I have been posting about the past couple of days just make me wonder if I am really in touch with the true spiritual battle that is going on in the world for the hearts of our children and for that matter all of us. This recent alert by the American Family Association just made me sick at my stomach.
I have never watched the Family Guy, I just figured it would be too much like the Simpsons, and have found that show to be more offensive than not. But after seeing an episode of the Family Guy on an AFA notice, I could not believe how far we have gone in allowing such to be on prime time television. I understand that we all have control of our remotes, but this particular episode really
hit me at far we have allowed our values as One Nation Under God to erode.
AFA is asking that you boycott Pepsi as one of the major sponsors of this show. I was hesitant to do so, not because I drink Pepsi, but because I love Fritos and Frito Lay is a subsidary of Pepsi. But after watching the show, I signed the petition. Now the bigger question for me is can I actually boycott Fox?? After all American Idol and 24 are two of my favorite shows. At best for now, I do plan on writing Fox a letter expressing my disapproval.
I do not want to post the video here on my blog and subject anyone else to the perverseness of it. If you would like to watch it you can go to: http://www.afa.net/familyguy2.htm
Just suffice it to say the father allows himself to be given the "gay gene" by a shot so that he can be paid $125.00 and comes home and pronounces he is a homosexual, later resisting the sexual advances of his wife and then bringing home his new boyfriend and kissing him in front of his family. There was also a scene where he is sleeping naked and a horse walks into the bedroom and starts licking his bottom, which he mistakes for advances from his wife. And even more corrupt things than the few I have listed here.
Don't know about you, but I don't think we can just stand idly by as more and more things are thrown at us in attempt to "normalize" them. I think it is our call to stand up for what is right. I do think we need to do that in ways that honor God and do not inflame.
Perhaps the greatest weapon of all that we have in are arsenal is prayer.
I have never watched the Family Guy, I just figured it would be too much like the Simpsons, and have found that show to be more offensive than not. But after seeing an episode of the Family Guy on an AFA notice, I could not believe how far we have gone in allowing such to be on prime time television. I understand that we all have control of our remotes, but this particular episode really
hit me at far we have allowed our values as One Nation Under God to erode.
AFA is asking that you boycott Pepsi as one of the major sponsors of this show. I was hesitant to do so, not because I drink Pepsi, but because I love Fritos and Frito Lay is a subsidary of Pepsi. But after watching the show, I signed the petition. Now the bigger question for me is can I actually boycott Fox?? After all American Idol and 24 are two of my favorite shows. At best for now, I do plan on writing Fox a letter expressing my disapproval.
I do not want to post the video here on my blog and subject anyone else to the perverseness of it. If you would like to watch it you can go to: http://www.afa.net/familyguy2.htm
Just suffice it to say the father allows himself to be given the "gay gene" by a shot so that he can be paid $125.00 and comes home and pronounces he is a homosexual, later resisting the sexual advances of his wife and then bringing home his new boyfriend and kissing him in front of his family. There was also a scene where he is sleeping naked and a horse walks into the bedroom and starts licking his bottom, which he mistakes for advances from his wife. And even more corrupt things than the few I have listed here.
Don't know about you, but I don't think we can just stand idly by as more and more things are thrown at us in attempt to "normalize" them. I think it is our call to stand up for what is right. I do think we need to do that in ways that honor God and do not inflame.
Perhaps the greatest weapon of all that we have in are arsenal is prayer.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
The Next Generation, Part 2
So I don't want to be accused of being a "Chicken Little" and go around pronouncing doom and gloom. But neither can I just close my eyes and ears and pretend all is well. Hear is another article I read yesterday.
Allie Martin, One News Now
"The Institute on Religion & Democracy is blasting the religious denomination of President Barack Obama for its recent stance on condom distribution inside houses of worship.
Recently, the HIV and AIDS Network of the United Church of Christ (UCC) said condoms should be handed out at places of worship. The statement was issued during a presentation to the denomination's Wider Church Ministries Board and also advocated making condoms available at faith-based educational settings.
A UCC executive said that condom distribution is a matter of life and death and that condoms should be made available to save the lives of young people.
Calling it the denomination's "moral responsibility" to make condoms available, the UCC's executive for health and wellness advocacy said "people of faith make condoms available because we have chosen life so that we and our children may live."
Alan Wisdom, with the Institute on Religion & Democracy, believes the UCC's statement is dangerous. "It sends a message to youth particularly, the kids who meet in their Sunday schools, that the church really has no expectation of them in terms of sexuality, that it expects them to enter into multiple sexual relationships in the same way the world does, and that its only concern is they not pick up diseases," he notes.
The UCC's condom distribution is the latest step in the denomination's departure from its Puritan roots, Wisdom concludes."
Begs us to question does the end justify the means?? What is wrong with teaching abstinance to our children? What is my responsibility? What is yours?
Allie Martin, One News Now
"The Institute on Religion & Democracy is blasting the religious denomination of President Barack Obama for its recent stance on condom distribution inside houses of worship.
Recently, the HIV and AIDS Network of the United Church of Christ (UCC) said condoms should be handed out at places of worship. The statement was issued during a presentation to the denomination's Wider Church Ministries Board and also advocated making condoms available at faith-based educational settings.
A UCC executive said that condom distribution is a matter of life and death and that condoms should be made available to save the lives of young people.
Calling it the denomination's "moral responsibility" to make condoms available, the UCC's executive for health and wellness advocacy said "people of faith make condoms available because we have chosen life so that we and our children may live."
Alan Wisdom, with the Institute on Religion & Democracy, believes the UCC's statement is dangerous. "It sends a message to youth particularly, the kids who meet in their Sunday schools, that the church really has no expectation of them in terms of sexuality, that it expects them to enter into multiple sexual relationships in the same way the world does, and that its only concern is they not pick up diseases," he notes.
The UCC's condom distribution is the latest step in the denomination's departure from its Puritan roots, Wisdom concludes."
Begs us to question does the end justify the means?? What is wrong with teaching abstinance to our children? What is my responsibility? What is yours?
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