Tresia Eason sent this via email, but I thought it would be fun to post and then tag everyone who is reading to either give your answers in the comments, or post to your own blog.
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper.
2. Real tree or Artificial? Have artificial, but love the real deal.
3. When do you put up the tree? Friday after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? January 1st
5. Do you like eggnog? Not so much
6. Favorite gift received as a child? A Toodles doll and a T.V.
7. Hardest person to buy for? Usually Steve, because he doesn't enjoy getting gifts
8. Easiest person to buy for? My mom
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? MAIL!
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Some Gloria Vanderbilt perfume
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? All year long if I see something I know someone would like
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? yes (Gloria Vanderbilt perfume)
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? pumpkin roll
16. White lights or colored lights on the tree? this year colored
17. Favorite Christmas song? Do You Hear What I Hear
18. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? Love to travel, but usually stay home
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph!
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Goes by too fast.
23. What theme or color are you using? Very electic, but mostly red and white
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner - Ham
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? We aren't buying presents this year but taking the money we would have spent and giving it to someone in need.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Yeah! It's Christmas Time!
I do love Thanksgiving, but I am always excited when it is over because it means it is time for Christmas. So first thing is change the blog layout to a Christmas layout. I am thankful for Cutest Blog On The Block that makes it easy and fun to change my format. So now it is get out the Christmas Cd's, put up the tree and get out all the decorations. So in honor of Christmas who can say it better than Alvin and the Chipmunks?
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
If you are reading this, know that I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving! I pray in the midst of eating, sleeping, playing, watching football, etc. that you have some time to stop and spend time with our Father thanking Him for the many blessings that He has given you. I thought it would be an appropriate time to post the story behind the author and the song "Count Your Blessings". Does it surprise you to know that song was written in 1897 and yet it is still so relevant today? I am envious of those that can write songs. I think it is a great thing to be able to put your feelings of praise for God into lyrics. Perhaps the only thing that stands in my way is taking the time to do so???
"Rev. Johnson Oatman, Jr., was one of the important and prolific gospel song writers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He was born near Medford, New Jersey, on April 21, 1856. As a child he became acquainted with the hymns of the church through the singing talents of his father. At the age of nineteen Oatman joined the Methodist Church and several years later was granted a license to preach in local Methodist congregations. Though he wrote over 5,000 hymn texts, Oatman was busily engaged throughout his life in a mercantile business and later as an administrator for a large insurance company in New Jersey. Other gospel favorites by Johnson Oatman include "Higher Ground", and "No, Not One!"
"Count Your Blessings" is generally considered to be Oatman's finest hymn. It first appeared in Songs for Young People, compiled and published by Edwin O. Excell in 1897. Perhaps no American was ever received with such enthusiasm in Great Britian as this hymn. The London Daily, in giving an account of a meeting presided over by Gypsy Smith, reported, "Mr. Smith announced the hymn 'Count Your Blessings.' Said he, 'In South London the men sing it, the boys whistle it, and the women rock their babies to sleep on this hymn.'"
Count Your Blessings
Verse 1
When upon life's billows You are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged Thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings Name them one by one,
And it will surprise you What the Lord hath done.
Chorus:
Count your blessings Name them one by one.
Count your blessings See what God hath done.
Count your blessings Name them one by one.
Count your many blessings See what God hath done.
Verse 2
Are you ever burdened With a load of care,
Does the cross seem heavy You are called to bear.
Count your many blessings Every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing As the days go by.
Verse 3
When you look at others With their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised You His wealth untold.
Count your many blessings Money cannot buy,
Your reward in heaven Nor your home on high.
Verse 4
So amid the conflict Whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged God is over all.
Count your many blessings Angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you To your journey's end.
You can find more on this story and others in 101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth Osbeck.
"Rev. Johnson Oatman, Jr., was one of the important and prolific gospel song writers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He was born near Medford, New Jersey, on April 21, 1856. As a child he became acquainted with the hymns of the church through the singing talents of his father. At the age of nineteen Oatman joined the Methodist Church and several years later was granted a license to preach in local Methodist congregations. Though he wrote over 5,000 hymn texts, Oatman was busily engaged throughout his life in a mercantile business and later as an administrator for a large insurance company in New Jersey. Other gospel favorites by Johnson Oatman include "Higher Ground", and "No, Not One!"
"Count Your Blessings" is generally considered to be Oatman's finest hymn. It first appeared in Songs for Young People, compiled and published by Edwin O. Excell in 1897. Perhaps no American was ever received with such enthusiasm in Great Britian as this hymn. The London Daily, in giving an account of a meeting presided over by Gypsy Smith, reported, "Mr. Smith announced the hymn 'Count Your Blessings.' Said he, 'In South London the men sing it, the boys whistle it, and the women rock their babies to sleep on this hymn.'"
Count Your Blessings
Verse 1
When upon life's billows You are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged Thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings Name them one by one,
And it will surprise you What the Lord hath done.
Chorus:
Count your blessings Name them one by one.
Count your blessings See what God hath done.
Count your blessings Name them one by one.
Count your many blessings See what God hath done.
Verse 2
Are you ever burdened With a load of care,
Does the cross seem heavy You are called to bear.
Count your many blessings Every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing As the days go by.
Verse 3
When you look at others With their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised You His wealth untold.
Count your many blessings Money cannot buy,
Your reward in heaven Nor your home on high.
Verse 4
So amid the conflict Whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged God is over all.
Count your many blessings Angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you To your journey's end.
You can find more on this story and others in 101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth Osbeck.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
God On Trial
Another daily read that I get from Crosswalk.com is Chuck Colson's Breakpoint. Today he posted information about a movie on PBS called "God On Trial", that I found interesting. I hope to watch it soon. Just in case you had not heard about it, I thought I would post his entry. I am thankful that I love a God who allows us to wrestle with our faith but keeps on loving us unconditionally.
'GOD ON TRIAL'
Chuck Colson
He Suffers with Us
PBS stations around the country are currently running a deeply sobering film that is a must-see for people of faith. Called God on Trial, the film tells the story of a group of Jewish inmates at Auschwitz who don't understand why God seems indifferent to their suffering. (Because of profanity, disturbing images, and other elements, the film is not suitable for children.)
The film begins on the "day of selection," on which some of the prisoners are chosen for extermination to make room for more prisoners. As the chosen ones await their fate, though some of the prisoners insist that God is still with them and that "suffering is a part of God's plan," many others feel abandoned and bitter. A young man named Moche complains, "[God] should be here, not us. . . . We should put [God] on trial; then maybe He'll hear us."
So the prisoners decide to bring a charge of "breach of contract" against God for breaking His covenant with the Jewish people. What follows is a compelling exploration of suffering, sin, and faith.
An older man named Kuhn insists, "This is a test of our faith. . . . The point is to keep faith." He even suggests that the Jews have broken the covenant themselves by forgetting their Scriptures and disobeying God's law. But as Kuhn's son Mordechai points out, the new prisoners who have just arrived are devout followers of the Torah, and yet they're being punished along with the Jews who have lapsed from their faith.
The arguments go on and on, covering such subjects as what crime they might have committed, whether the punishment is proportionate, why their torturers thrive if God is just, and whether there might be some possible redemption or purification that will come from their suffering-the kind of questions that people of faith have always wrestled with. They even face the possibility that God has withdrawn His favor from them and made a new covenant with the Nazis.
The arguments are hard to hear and the film is very hard to watch. Not because we haven't heard arguments against God before-many of us have been hearing them and debating them for years-but because we hear them in a situation like this, among men who have so much at stake. As one character remarks, appeals to reason mean little in a world that seems to be run by madness.
But this makes it all the more meaningful when, even though they cannot understand God, they realize how desperately they need Him. One young father who had his three little boys taken from him surprisingly speaks in favor of God: "I know He is here, even though I don't understand Him. . . . Maybe God is suffering with us." Even when they feel furthest from Him, God is embodied in the sacrificial love of some of the prisoners.
I don't want to give away too much here, but I recommend that you watch the film if it airs on your local PBS station, or pick up a copy of the DVD, which will be released in January. Consider watching it with your church group or a close circle of friends. Don't be afraid to wrestle with the emotionally painful and intellectually challenging questions about God and suffering-and how it could be, possibly, that God suffers with us.
'GOD ON TRIAL'
Chuck Colson
He Suffers with Us
PBS stations around the country are currently running a deeply sobering film that is a must-see for people of faith. Called God on Trial, the film tells the story of a group of Jewish inmates at Auschwitz who don't understand why God seems indifferent to their suffering. (Because of profanity, disturbing images, and other elements, the film is not suitable for children.)
The film begins on the "day of selection," on which some of the prisoners are chosen for extermination to make room for more prisoners. As the chosen ones await their fate, though some of the prisoners insist that God is still with them and that "suffering is a part of God's plan," many others feel abandoned and bitter. A young man named Moche complains, "[God] should be here, not us. . . . We should put [God] on trial; then maybe He'll hear us."
So the prisoners decide to bring a charge of "breach of contract" against God for breaking His covenant with the Jewish people. What follows is a compelling exploration of suffering, sin, and faith.
An older man named Kuhn insists, "This is a test of our faith. . . . The point is to keep faith." He even suggests that the Jews have broken the covenant themselves by forgetting their Scriptures and disobeying God's law. But as Kuhn's son Mordechai points out, the new prisoners who have just arrived are devout followers of the Torah, and yet they're being punished along with the Jews who have lapsed from their faith.
The arguments go on and on, covering such subjects as what crime they might have committed, whether the punishment is proportionate, why their torturers thrive if God is just, and whether there might be some possible redemption or purification that will come from their suffering-the kind of questions that people of faith have always wrestled with. They even face the possibility that God has withdrawn His favor from them and made a new covenant with the Nazis.
The arguments are hard to hear and the film is very hard to watch. Not because we haven't heard arguments against God before-many of us have been hearing them and debating them for years-but because we hear them in a situation like this, among men who have so much at stake. As one character remarks, appeals to reason mean little in a world that seems to be run by madness.
But this makes it all the more meaningful when, even though they cannot understand God, they realize how desperately they need Him. One young father who had his three little boys taken from him surprisingly speaks in favor of God: "I know He is here, even though I don't understand Him. . . . Maybe God is suffering with us." Even when they feel furthest from Him, God is embodied in the sacrificial love of some of the prisoners.
I don't want to give away too much here, but I recommend that you watch the film if it airs on your local PBS station, or pick up a copy of the DVD, which will be released in January. Consider watching it with your church group or a close circle of friends. Don't be afraid to wrestle with the emotionally painful and intellectually challenging questions about God and suffering-and how it could be, possibly, that God suffers with us.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Holidays and Family
I think the time that I really regret that our family is so far apart is at the holidays. This will be Steve and mine 20th Thanksgiving together. During those 20 years we have spent 8 with family members other than my mother and father and never has our entire family been together for Thanksgiving. It even gets worse for Christmas. We have spent 4 with other family members. I get really envious when I hear about families that all get together for one or the other and even more so for those who get to do both!
I understand that when it comes to my family we live far apart (Olympia, Washington, Denver, Colorado and West Monroe, Lousiana, Omaha, Nebraska) and that complicates things. But you would think every 5 years or so we could all get together?? If it were up to me we would, but I can only convince Steve to travel(that in itself is no easy feat)not everyone else, and other family members are concerned about the weather and traveling. So they would rather stay home than risk the "what if's". And when it comes to Christmas my brothers never want to be away from their own homes, first it was for their kids, now it is their grandkids. So even if we travel to one place, we don't all get together. So if you are reading this join my pity party and say "Awh". Then if you are blessed to be with your family say a prayer of Thanksgiving and don't take that time for granted.
Here's an addendum: Our second Christmas, I convinced Steve to go to my parents who at the time they were living in Parma, Idaho. I assured him that the weather would not be a factor. Well...wouldn't you know they had the worst snowstorm they had in 30 years and it broke the gas main so there was no heat in the house! They did not have a fireplace either. So we decided to go to the movie in a neighboring town just to get warm. When we went to get in the car the battery was dead. My father plugged it in downstairs and put a replacement in the car. But when Steve went to start the car he flooded it so we had to go back into the house which by then was smoke filled, because the battery had caught on fire. My dad grabbed the battery and through it out of the back door into the snow bank. We all got a good laugh. We were thankful that Steve flooded the car, otherwise we would have left and the house would have burned down. Anyway...mention traveling at the holidays and Steve is quick to remind me of that fun time!
I understand that when it comes to my family we live far apart (Olympia, Washington, Denver, Colorado and West Monroe, Lousiana, Omaha, Nebraska) and that complicates things. But you would think every 5 years or so we could all get together?? If it were up to me we would, but I can only convince Steve to travel(that in itself is no easy feat)not everyone else, and other family members are concerned about the weather and traveling. So they would rather stay home than risk the "what if's". And when it comes to Christmas my brothers never want to be away from their own homes, first it was for their kids, now it is their grandkids. So even if we travel to one place, we don't all get together. So if you are reading this join my pity party and say "Awh". Then if you are blessed to be with your family say a prayer of Thanksgiving and don't take that time for granted.
Here's an addendum: Our second Christmas, I convinced Steve to go to my parents who at the time they were living in Parma, Idaho. I assured him that the weather would not be a factor. Well...wouldn't you know they had the worst snowstorm they had in 30 years and it broke the gas main so there was no heat in the house! They did not have a fireplace either. So we decided to go to the movie in a neighboring town just to get warm. When we went to get in the car the battery was dead. My father plugged it in downstairs and put a replacement in the car. But when Steve went to start the car he flooded it so we had to go back into the house which by then was smoke filled, because the battery had caught on fire. My dad grabbed the battery and through it out of the back door into the snow bank. We all got a good laugh. We were thankful that Steve flooded the car, otherwise we would have left and the house would have burned down. Anyway...mention traveling at the holidays and Steve is quick to remind me of that fun time!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Psalm 145
This morning as I was getting ready for worship I was listening to a sermon by Charles Stanley. I listen to him every week as I think he just has such practical lessons. Steve and I are excited that we will be doing an Alaskan cruise with him this summer. Anyway, this morning his sermon was on Psalms 145 and gratitude. He stated that you don't have to feel like thanking God but you do it anyway. Our thanks isn't motivated by our cirucumstances but by our knowledge of God's goodness.
There is not anything that happens to me that has not been through God's hands first and for that I can be truly thankful. I came home and read Psalm 145 and think it is probably the way I should start everyday, reading this Psalm as there is a wealth of comfort in this Psalm. Hope you will be blessed by it as well.
1 I praise your greatness, my God the King;
I will praise you forever and ever.
2 I will praise you every day;
I will praise you forever and ever.
3 The Lord is great and worthy of our praise;
no one can understand how great he is.
4 Parents will tell their children what you have done.
They will retell your mighty acts,
5 wonderful majesty, and glory.
And I will think about your miracles.
6 They will tell about the amazing things you do,
and I will tell how great you are.
7 They will remember your great goodness
and will sing about your fairness.
8 The Lord is kind and shows mercy.
He does not become angry quickly but is full of love.
9 The Lord is good to everyone;
he is merciful to all he has made.
10 Lord, everything you have made will praise you;
those who belong to you will bless you.
11 They will tell about the glory of your kingdom
and will speak about your power.
12 Then everyone will know the mighty things you do
and the glory and majesty of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom will go on and on,
and you will rule forever.
The Lord will keep all his promises;
he is loyal to all he has made.
14 The Lord helps those who have been defeated
and takes care of those who are in trouble.
15 All living things look to you for food,
and you give it to them at the right time.
16 You open your hand,
and you satisfy all living things.
17 Everything the Lord does is right.
He is loyal to all he has made.
18 The Lord is close to everyone who prays to him,
to all who truly pray to him.
19 He gives those who respect him what they want.
He listens when they cry, and he saves them.
20 The Lord protects everyone who loves him,
but he will destroy the wicked.
21 I will praise the Lord.
Let everyone praise his holy name forever.
There is not anything that happens to me that has not been through God's hands first and for that I can be truly thankful. I came home and read Psalm 145 and think it is probably the way I should start everyday, reading this Psalm as there is a wealth of comfort in this Psalm. Hope you will be blessed by it as well.
1 I praise your greatness, my God the King;
I will praise you forever and ever.
2 I will praise you every day;
I will praise you forever and ever.
3 The Lord is great and worthy of our praise;
no one can understand how great he is.
4 Parents will tell their children what you have done.
They will retell your mighty acts,
5 wonderful majesty, and glory.
And I will think about your miracles.
6 They will tell about the amazing things you do,
and I will tell how great you are.
7 They will remember your great goodness
and will sing about your fairness.
8 The Lord is kind and shows mercy.
He does not become angry quickly but is full of love.
9 The Lord is good to everyone;
he is merciful to all he has made.
10 Lord, everything you have made will praise you;
those who belong to you will bless you.
11 They will tell about the glory of your kingdom
and will speak about your power.
12 Then everyone will know the mighty things you do
and the glory and majesty of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom will go on and on,
and you will rule forever.
The Lord will keep all his promises;
he is loyal to all he has made.
14 The Lord helps those who have been defeated
and takes care of those who are in trouble.
15 All living things look to you for food,
and you give it to them at the right time.
16 You open your hand,
and you satisfy all living things.
17 Everything the Lord does is right.
He is loyal to all he has made.
18 The Lord is close to everyone who prays to him,
to all who truly pray to him.
19 He gives those who respect him what they want.
He listens when they cry, and he saves them.
20 The Lord protects everyone who loves him,
but he will destroy the wicked.
21 I will praise the Lord.
Let everyone praise his holy name forever.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Twilight
So...I don't know about you but I have wondered what all the hubbub has been about Twilight. I have pretty much ignored it thinking it is just another version of "Buffy The Vampire Slayer", but apparently I am wrong. I didn't know the series was written by a Mormon who has made a point to maintain some ethical standards. So, just in case you also didn't know much about the movie, I thought I would post this review from "Ignite Your Faith" which I found on a link to Christianity Today Magazine (which by the way reviews movies all the time).
What Shines in Twilight by Stacey Lingle
"Some of my Christian friends are concerned about these books centering on "demonic" creatures. Aren't vampires evil? Shouldn't we stay away from anything Satanic? These are good questions, and it's so crucial to be careful about what we feed our minds.
As I read the Twilight books, I found that the vampires in these books don't fit the classic vampire mold. No protruding fangs, no coffins, and they're not repelled by garlic or crosses. They have no dark mission, demonic connection, or contact with the spiritual underworld. They aren't "spiritual beings," but are more like humans with a horrible contagious disease. The only thing "vampiric" about them is that they feed on blood—which of course is forbidden by the Bible. Other than their thirst for blood, these vampires operate very like human beings. They have free will. They can choose to do good or to do evil. Edward and his family choose to do good because they believe that even vampires are not exempt from ethical standards. Unlike most vampires, this clan doesn't feed on humans, but they do drink the blood of animals because they must to live. Edward's father, Carlisle, even believes that they have souls and an afterlife. To me, it seems the vampires in these books are not demonic at all, but are metaphors for the human experience. These vampires' darks sides represent the very real monsters inside each of us. They are fighting against the temptation to do evil, which is what we as humans have to do everyday.
Nevertheless, spirituality is certainly relevant to the reading of Twilight. After all, part of the allure of the Twilight series is that it is "other-worldly." It's a fantasy. Sorry ladies, but there aren't really gorgeous, shimmering, chivalrous vampires and werewolves out there waiting to complete your life and mine. Yet the idea of them is captivating. Why? Because we are, essentially, spiritual beings. We know this world is not all there is, and we long for more. But fantasies like Twilight can become a distraction to our faith when we allow them to become a replacement for what we should be "fantasizing" about—spending eternity in the presence of God.
Bella is a clear example of someone who has misplaced her affections in this way. In her whirlwind romance with Edward, she directs all her love and desire toward Edward. She is so single-minded that the she doesn't even blink at the thought of giving up her soul (which is what would happen if she became a vampire so that she could be with Edward forever). This should strike us Christians as seriously wrong. She is choosing romantic love over her soul? As Jesus said: "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?" (Matthew 16:26, NIV) Now Jesus wasn't talking about becoming a vampire, but he was saying that our soul is the most important thing about us. Our soul, and our relationship with God, should be something we treasure and nurture, not willingly damage or discard for an earthly high.
One last spiritual note: The books don't have a great amount of God content (no major characters are believers), but the stories also don't discourage or deny God's existence. In fact, the characters live in a world—like that of most vampire fiction—where God is present. For instance, Carlisle, the respected leader of Edward's vampire family, mentions at one point that it wasn't his choice to become a vampire and lose his soul. For most vampires it isn't and so he hopes there's a way they can be saved and enjoy an afterlife."
If interested, you can find the entire review at http://www.christianitytoday.com/teens/special/web/twilight.html
OR
Christianity Today's review at www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/2008/twilight.html.
What Shines in Twilight by Stacey Lingle
"Some of my Christian friends are concerned about these books centering on "demonic" creatures. Aren't vampires evil? Shouldn't we stay away from anything Satanic? These are good questions, and it's so crucial to be careful about what we feed our minds.
As I read the Twilight books, I found that the vampires in these books don't fit the classic vampire mold. No protruding fangs, no coffins, and they're not repelled by garlic or crosses. They have no dark mission, demonic connection, or contact with the spiritual underworld. They aren't "spiritual beings," but are more like humans with a horrible contagious disease. The only thing "vampiric" about them is that they feed on blood—which of course is forbidden by the Bible. Other than their thirst for blood, these vampires operate very like human beings. They have free will. They can choose to do good or to do evil. Edward and his family choose to do good because they believe that even vampires are not exempt from ethical standards. Unlike most vampires, this clan doesn't feed on humans, but they do drink the blood of animals because they must to live. Edward's father, Carlisle, even believes that they have souls and an afterlife. To me, it seems the vampires in these books are not demonic at all, but are metaphors for the human experience. These vampires' darks sides represent the very real monsters inside each of us. They are fighting against the temptation to do evil, which is what we as humans have to do everyday.
Nevertheless, spirituality is certainly relevant to the reading of Twilight. After all, part of the allure of the Twilight series is that it is "other-worldly." It's a fantasy. Sorry ladies, but there aren't really gorgeous, shimmering, chivalrous vampires and werewolves out there waiting to complete your life and mine. Yet the idea of them is captivating. Why? Because we are, essentially, spiritual beings. We know this world is not all there is, and we long for more. But fantasies like Twilight can become a distraction to our faith when we allow them to become a replacement for what we should be "fantasizing" about—spending eternity in the presence of God.
Bella is a clear example of someone who has misplaced her affections in this way. In her whirlwind romance with Edward, she directs all her love and desire toward Edward. She is so single-minded that the she doesn't even blink at the thought of giving up her soul (which is what would happen if she became a vampire so that she could be with Edward forever). This should strike us Christians as seriously wrong. She is choosing romantic love over her soul? As Jesus said: "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?" (Matthew 16:26, NIV) Now Jesus wasn't talking about becoming a vampire, but he was saying that our soul is the most important thing about us. Our soul, and our relationship with God, should be something we treasure and nurture, not willingly damage or discard for an earthly high.
One last spiritual note: The books don't have a great amount of God content (no major characters are believers), but the stories also don't discourage or deny God's existence. In fact, the characters live in a world—like that of most vampire fiction—where God is present. For instance, Carlisle, the respected leader of Edward's vampire family, mentions at one point that it wasn't his choice to become a vampire and lose his soul. For most vampires it isn't and so he hopes there's a way they can be saved and enjoy an afterlife."
If interested, you can find the entire review at http://www.christianitytoday.com/teens/special/web/twilight.html
OR
Christianity Today's review at www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/2008/twilight.html.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Really Ooked
Okay, so "ook" isn't in the dictionary, but tonight it is the only word I can think of to describe the way I felt on my way to a ladies retreat meeting tonight. I was pulling up at the corner of Beltline and Plano Road and saw a male and female walking and thought to myself "it isn't really cold enough for the male to have a scarf wrapped around his neck", until I realized it was a boa constrictor!! I immediately reached over and locked my door! After all what if it had jumped off his neck and into my car through my closed window?????? Anyway who knew you take snakes for a walk? Whatever...there is no way I could wrap a snake aound my neck!!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
It's Too Early
Steve's Sunday Morning Bible Class is called "We Know It's Early" but this post is not about that. Tonight as I was driving home from dinner with friends, I saw three houses decorated and lit up for Christmas. I absolutely LOVE Christmas, but lights up before Thanksgiving?? I think it is too early. I want to enjoy one holiday before getting ready for the next. Guess I am just wierd that way. But only 7 more days and I can start playing the Christmas music.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Here He Comes
In our daily Bible reading we read the parable of the ten virgins. Then Greg Laurie's devotional happened to be on the same topic. "We have all played the childhood game, Hide-and-Seek, where one person closes his or her eyes while the others hide. My favorite part of the game comes after you count to 20 and get to yell, "Ready or not, here I come!" In a sense, that is what Jesus is saying in the Parable of the 10 Bridesmaids: "Ready or not, here I come!" In this parable, Jesus compares His second coming to 10 bridesmaids who "took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom" (Matthew 25:1). Five of the bridesmaids had oil in their lamps and were ready. The other five had no oil in their lamps and weren't prepared to meet the bridegroom. The five unprepared bridesmaids went to buy oil at the last minute, the bridegroom appeared and took everyone who was ready in with him to the marriage feast.
Suddenly, the five unprepared bridesmaids found themselves locked out and saying, "Sir, open the door for us!" (verse 11). But the bridegroom could only reply, "I don't know you!" (verse 12). This parable is a warning to be ready for the Lord's return. You might describe it as a wake-up call from God."
So today I am asking myself am I prepared? Do I live each moment of each day totally ready for my bridegroom to come? I hope so, but I am afraid not always as much as I should. How do you prepare yourself?
Suddenly, the five unprepared bridesmaids found themselves locked out and saying, "Sir, open the door for us!" (verse 11). But the bridegroom could only reply, "I don't know you!" (verse 12). This parable is a warning to be ready for the Lord's return. You might describe it as a wake-up call from God."
So today I am asking myself am I prepared? Do I live each moment of each day totally ready for my bridegroom to come? I hope so, but I am afraid not always as much as I should. How do you prepare yourself?
Sunday, November 16, 2008
God's Faithfulness
Our 5th grade Bible class lesson today was about God keeping His promises. I asked five of our "senior saints" to come in and share what their favorite promise of God is and how He has been faithful to keep that promise in their lives. I think it is so important that our young people hear the faith stories of those that have gone before them. This was such a blessed time today as the children paid such good attention to the senior saints as they shared. Hopefully, through their testimonies our children had a few roots grow a little deeper.
Here are the verses that were shared:
Sheridan-Ephesians 5:15 "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise." Sheridan told the kids that this verse helps him to remember at all times he is representing Christ no matter how someone else acts towards him.
Lynda-John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son." Lynda told the kids that if God loved her this much then there is nothing that will happen to her that He will not be concerned about. She says when your young "everlasting life" seems like a very long time away, but as you get older you realize that it could be soon. When she had a heart attack she was not afraid because she knew even if she were to die she would live with God forever.
Margie-1 Peter 5:7-"Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you." Margie explained that her family did not go to church when she grew up and a teacher invited her to church and when she was baptized she tried to talk to her father, but he told her he did not want to hear it. She prayed that something would happen that would change his mind, and sometime later she and Bill had a little boy named Scottie who had Down's Syndrome. When her father saw how lovingly she and Bill cared for Scottie and how at peace they were, he wanted to be baptized. She talked to the kids about the importance of prayer and that sometimes it make take awhile before you see God's answers, but He always answers.
Denola-Hebrews 13:5-6 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,"Never will I leave you;never will I forsake you."
and Psalms 51:10 "Create in me a pure heart, O God,and renew a steadfast spirit within me." Denola shared with the kids that when she was a child her parents had her memorize a verse and this was the one she chose. She is so thankful that over her life she has known that God is always with her. She had open heart surgery and was able to go through it with peace because she knew God was right there beside her.
One of her favorite hymns is "Purer In Heart O' God" so the Psalm verse has always been important to her for her growth.
Barbara-Told the kids she too was not raised going to church and lived in a very small town in New Hampshire where there was only one school and 21 in her graduating class. A friend needlepointed a frame for her that had the Serenity Prayer on it and that prayer has got her through a lot of difficult times especially the past few years when she had to have her leg amputated.
I pray that I will walk in the footsteps of these precious saints and love and serve my Father who is forever faithful to His promises.
Here are the verses that were shared:
Sheridan-Ephesians 5:15 "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise." Sheridan told the kids that this verse helps him to remember at all times he is representing Christ no matter how someone else acts towards him.
Lynda-John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son." Lynda told the kids that if God loved her this much then there is nothing that will happen to her that He will not be concerned about. She says when your young "everlasting life" seems like a very long time away, but as you get older you realize that it could be soon. When she had a heart attack she was not afraid because she knew even if she were to die she would live with God forever.
Margie-1 Peter 5:7-"Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you." Margie explained that her family did not go to church when she grew up and a teacher invited her to church and when she was baptized she tried to talk to her father, but he told her he did not want to hear it. She prayed that something would happen that would change his mind, and sometime later she and Bill had a little boy named Scottie who had Down's Syndrome. When her father saw how lovingly she and Bill cared for Scottie and how at peace they were, he wanted to be baptized. She talked to the kids about the importance of prayer and that sometimes it make take awhile before you see God's answers, but He always answers.
Denola-Hebrews 13:5-6 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,"Never will I leave you;never will I forsake you."
and Psalms 51:10 "Create in me a pure heart, O God,and renew a steadfast spirit within me." Denola shared with the kids that when she was a child her parents had her memorize a verse and this was the one she chose. She is so thankful that over her life she has known that God is always with her. She had open heart surgery and was able to go through it with peace because she knew God was right there beside her.
One of her favorite hymns is "Purer In Heart O' God" so the Psalm verse has always been important to her for her growth.
Barbara-Told the kids she too was not raised going to church and lived in a very small town in New Hampshire where there was only one school and 21 in her graduating class. A friend needlepointed a frame for her that had the Serenity Prayer on it and that prayer has got her through a lot of difficult times especially the past few years when she had to have her leg amputated.
I pray that I will walk in the footsteps of these precious saints and love and serve my Father who is forever faithful to His promises.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Why Didn't They Ask?
So I am wondering why one of the questions we did not hear at the Presidential debates was "what Executive Orders would you put in place?". Guess in my naivity I didn't know the President could just put things in place without Congressional approval (not that he wouldn't have it anyway).
It really bothers me that not only is Obama going to push the pro-abortion agenda here in the states, but one of his first orders will be to rescind the Executive Order that President Bush established in 2001.
"The prohibition on federal funding for international family-planning agencies that provide abortions -- or counseling and information about abortion -- even in countries where the procedure is legal. This policy, known as the Mexico City initiative, was initially put in place by Ronald Reagan and reaffirmed by the current president's father. Bill Clinton removed it in 1993; President Bush restored it two days after taking office in 2001."
We are in a financial crisis here, but we are going to fund abortions overseas??
He will also probably rescind the ban on stem cell research on embryo's even though it has been proven that the same research can be done on adult with even better results.
"The ban on federal funding for research on new lines of embryonic stem cells. In August 2001, Bush limited government funding to the embryonic stem cell lines then in existence and prohibited any funding for development of new embryonic stem cell lines"
"Put in place in August 2001, the policy prevents taxpayers from paying for new embryonic research that involves the destruction of human life. Bush directed most of the public funding for the science to adult stem cells, which are more ethical and have proven more effective than their embryonic counterparts.
Embryonic stem cells, in addition to including the destruction of days-old unborn children, has yet to work in humans because of significant problems after they are injected into the body -- ranging from the growth of tumors to immune system rejection issues.
The Washington Post reports that the transition team members are working with top special interest groups and leading pro-abortion members of Congress on prioritizing the executive orders that Obama will reverse."
These quotes are in several of the major newspapers such as the Washington Post and Los Angeles Times. I just wonder what else is coming down the pike that we absolutely have no say in because America had their say in nominating Obama as our next president? Plenty of reasons for us not to let up on our prayers.
It really bothers me that not only is Obama going to push the pro-abortion agenda here in the states, but one of his first orders will be to rescind the Executive Order that President Bush established in 2001.
"The prohibition on federal funding for international family-planning agencies that provide abortions -- or counseling and information about abortion -- even in countries where the procedure is legal. This policy, known as the Mexico City initiative, was initially put in place by Ronald Reagan and reaffirmed by the current president's father. Bill Clinton removed it in 1993; President Bush restored it two days after taking office in 2001."
We are in a financial crisis here, but we are going to fund abortions overseas??
He will also probably rescind the ban on stem cell research on embryo's even though it has been proven that the same research can be done on adult with even better results.
"The ban on federal funding for research on new lines of embryonic stem cells. In August 2001, Bush limited government funding to the embryonic stem cell lines then in existence and prohibited any funding for development of new embryonic stem cell lines"
"Put in place in August 2001, the policy prevents taxpayers from paying for new embryonic research that involves the destruction of human life. Bush directed most of the public funding for the science to adult stem cells, which are more ethical and have proven more effective than their embryonic counterparts.
Embryonic stem cells, in addition to including the destruction of days-old unborn children, has yet to work in humans because of significant problems after they are injected into the body -- ranging from the growth of tumors to immune system rejection issues.
The Washington Post reports that the transition team members are working with top special interest groups and leading pro-abortion members of Congress on prioritizing the executive orders that Obama will reverse."
These quotes are in several of the major newspapers such as the Washington Post and Los Angeles Times. I just wonder what else is coming down the pike that we absolutely have no say in because America had their say in nominating Obama as our next president? Plenty of reasons for us not to let up on our prayers.
Friday, November 14, 2008
House Markings
Steve and I have taken a few meals to people in the past couple of weeks and have been suprised at how poorly marked addresses are. We actually almost delivered to the wrong house because GPS said "arriving at your destination" and we were on the porch when we finally saw the number and we were two houses off. I wonder if anyone with a poorly marked house ever worries that emergency vehicles would not be able to find them easily in an emergency? Guess I won't complain about paying the $10.00 for the curb markings the next time we are asked.
Everyone have a great weekend.
Everyone have a great weekend.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Another Song Question
So last night at Oasis we sang "Jesus Is Coming Soon". Does anyone else have trouble singing an upbeat "many will meet their doom"?
Just wonder what the writer of that song was thinking. Was doom the only word that rhymed with soon? It's not like I don't know that people will meet their doom when Jesus comes again, but singing about it in the midst of praise just doesn't seem right?
Jesus is coming soon
Morning night or noon
Many will meet their doom
Trumpets will sound
All of the dead shall rise
Righteous meet in the sky
Going where no one dies
Heavenward bound!
Just wonder what the writer of that song was thinking. Was doom the only word that rhymed with soon? It's not like I don't know that people will meet their doom when Jesus comes again, but singing about it in the midst of praise just doesn't seem right?
Jesus is coming soon
Morning night or noon
Many will meet their doom
Trumpets will sound
All of the dead shall rise
Righteous meet in the sky
Going where no one dies
Heavenward bound!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
A Few Laughs
Sometimes I think my posts are just a little too serious. Why? Because I am mostly a serious person, but I do enjoy a good laugh, and thought this blog needed some laughs today, so here are just a few I found today. Hope they make you chuckle a little too.
"I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area so I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because they were trained professionals and I was in good hands.'Now,' she asked me, 'has your plane arrived yet?'"
Top 12 Things You Should Not Say To The Officer Who Pulled You Over
l. I can't reach my license unless you hold my beer.
2. Sorry, Officer, I didn't realize my radar detector wasn't plugged in.
3. Aren't you the guy from the Village People?
4. Hey, you must've been doin' about 125 mph to keep up with me. Good job!
5. Are you Andy or Barney?
6. I thought you had to be in relatively good physical condition to be a police officer.
7. You're not gonna check the trunk are you?
8. I pay your salary!
9. Gee, Officer! That's terrific. The last officer only gave me a warning too!
10. Do you know why you pulled me over? Okay, just so one of us does.
11. I was trying to keep up with traffic. Yes, I know there are no other cars around. That's how far ahead of me they are.
12. When the Officer says "Gee Son...Your eyes look red, have you been drinking?' You probably shouldn't respond with, "Gee Officer your eyes looked glazed, have you been eating donuts?
Father Boudreaux and pastor Thibodeaux were fishing on the side of the road. They thoughtfully made a sign saying "De End is Near! Turn yourself around now before it's too late!," and showed it to each passing car. Well this one car that passed didn't appreciate the sign and was shouting at them: "Leave us alone you religious nuts!" All of a sudden they heard a big splash, looked at each other, and Father Boudreaux said....."You think we should just put up a sign that says: 'bridge out' instead ?"
Tragically, three friends die in a car crash, and they find themselves at the gates of heaven. Before entering, they are each asked a question by St. Peter. "When you are in your casket and friends and family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you?", asks St. Peter. The first guy says, "I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man." The second guy says, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher who made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow." The last guy replies, "I would like to hear them say...... LOOK!!! HE'S MOVING!!!!!"
"I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area so I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because they were trained professionals and I was in good hands.'Now,' she asked me, 'has your plane arrived yet?'"
Top 12 Things You Should Not Say To The Officer Who Pulled You Over
l. I can't reach my license unless you hold my beer.
2. Sorry, Officer, I didn't realize my radar detector wasn't plugged in.
3. Aren't you the guy from the Village People?
4. Hey, you must've been doin' about 125 mph to keep up with me. Good job!
5. Are you Andy or Barney?
6. I thought you had to be in relatively good physical condition to be a police officer.
7. You're not gonna check the trunk are you?
8. I pay your salary!
9. Gee, Officer! That's terrific. The last officer only gave me a warning too!
10. Do you know why you pulled me over? Okay, just so one of us does.
11. I was trying to keep up with traffic. Yes, I know there are no other cars around. That's how far ahead of me they are.
12. When the Officer says "Gee Son...Your eyes look red, have you been drinking?' You probably shouldn't respond with, "Gee Officer your eyes looked glazed, have you been eating donuts?
Father Boudreaux and pastor Thibodeaux were fishing on the side of the road. They thoughtfully made a sign saying "De End is Near! Turn yourself around now before it's too late!," and showed it to each passing car. Well this one car that passed didn't appreciate the sign and was shouting at them: "Leave us alone you religious nuts!" All of a sudden they heard a big splash, looked at each other, and Father Boudreaux said....."You think we should just put up a sign that says: 'bridge out' instead ?"
Tragically, three friends die in a car crash, and they find themselves at the gates of heaven. Before entering, they are each asked a question by St. Peter. "When you are in your casket and friends and family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you?", asks St. Peter. The first guy says, "I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man." The second guy says, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher who made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow." The last guy replies, "I would like to hear them say...... LOOK!!! HE'S MOVING!!!!!"
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Thank You To Our Veterans
I have to admit that most Veteran's Days I am pretty oblivous to the reason we celebrate it and go on about my business without giving much thought or thanks for the freedoms we have in America. Neither do I contemplate the men and women who have given their lives so that I can have the blessing of living in this "land of the free and home of the brave". Ihope you will take a minute to join me today in saying a prayer of thanksgiving for all of those who have served or are currently serving in our Armed Forces.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
All to Jesus I Surrender
Is it just me, or does anyone else have trouble singing this song? Most of the time I cannot sing this song because I cannot honestly say the words. I wish I could, but I know I don't surrender all. This would be how I need to sing the song.
Some to Jesus I surrender,
Some to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and try to trust Him,
In His presence try to daily live.
I surrender some,
I surrender some.
Some to thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender some.
All to Jesus I want to surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures some forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
All to Jesus I want to surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
I usually listen as other people sing this song, wishing I could sing it and mean it.
I still have a long way to go before I can sing it, but perhaps next time I sing it I will be able to say I have surrendered a little more.
Some to Jesus I surrender,
Some to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and try to trust Him,
In His presence try to daily live.
I surrender some,
I surrender some.
Some to thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender some.
All to Jesus I want to surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures some forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
All to Jesus I want to surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
I usually listen as other people sing this song, wishing I could sing it and mean it.
I still have a long way to go before I can sing it, but perhaps next time I sing it I will be able to say I have surrendered a little more.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Don't know about you, but this hit home for me. I constantly struggle with wanting to hunger and thirst for God's Word. Seems like it is just not as easy for me to open as my computer or as this post says my cell phone.
Cell phone Vs. The Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our
cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forget it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities? And no dropped calls!
Cell phone Vs. The Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our
cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forget it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities? And no dropped calls!
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Letter to President Elect Obama
So...I also wrote a letter to President Elect Obama.
"Dear President Elect Obama,
Last night in your acceptance speech you said “I may not have your vote, but I hear your voice and I am your President too.” I hope that that is a true statement. I did not vote for you because you say you are pro life, but will not make sure that life is protected. You say that you believe marriage is defined as between a man and a woman, but you will not take a stand to protect our families. You assumed I was more concerned about money (tax refunds) than about being “one nation under God”. I am trying very hard to follow the Lord’s Word in Luke 6:37 and not judge you.
I just wanted to let you know that much more important than hearing my voice, is that I pray that you will hear God’s voice. Today we received a message from the Presidential Prayer Team that we have been a part of for the past eight years. We wondered if the prayer team that originated with George Bush would now disband. We are glad that it is not and they are now telling us specifics as to what we can pray for you. 2 Timothy 2:2-3 tells me that I am to pray for you and I do commit to do so.
My specific prayer is that you will seek the Lord and His will for this great nation. God has already used you to show how all of His children are important and equal. I do rejoice that you have been able to show us all there is nothing that is impossible in America. So I am hoping you will also lead the way in showing what it looks like when a country does put God first. 2 Chronicles 7:14 says ”If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” This verse indicates that a country can turn from God and need forgiveness and lose His blessing.
Every speech I heard you make you closed by saying “and God bless the United States of America.” So I am asking you Mr. Obama to please protect the rights of our unborn children. I am also asking that you will stay true to your word “not to be a Democrat but an American” and protect our heritage of family by not supporting the homosexual agenda.
Thank you for listening to this one American’s voice. I know that God will bless America if we keep Him and His ways at the center of all we do. May He bless you with the wisdom you will need for the hard decisions ahead."
"Dear President Elect Obama,
Last night in your acceptance speech you said “I may not have your vote, but I hear your voice and I am your President too.” I hope that that is a true statement. I did not vote for you because you say you are pro life, but will not make sure that life is protected. You say that you believe marriage is defined as between a man and a woman, but you will not take a stand to protect our families. You assumed I was more concerned about money (tax refunds) than about being “one nation under God”. I am trying very hard to follow the Lord’s Word in Luke 6:37 and not judge you.
I just wanted to let you know that much more important than hearing my voice, is that I pray that you will hear God’s voice. Today we received a message from the Presidential Prayer Team that we have been a part of for the past eight years. We wondered if the prayer team that originated with George Bush would now disband. We are glad that it is not and they are now telling us specifics as to what we can pray for you. 2 Timothy 2:2-3 tells me that I am to pray for you and I do commit to do so.
My specific prayer is that you will seek the Lord and His will for this great nation. God has already used you to show how all of His children are important and equal. I do rejoice that you have been able to show us all there is nothing that is impossible in America. So I am hoping you will also lead the way in showing what it looks like when a country does put God first. 2 Chronicles 7:14 says ”If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” This verse indicates that a country can turn from God and need forgiveness and lose His blessing.
Every speech I heard you make you closed by saying “and God bless the United States of America.” So I am asking you Mr. Obama to please protect the rights of our unborn children. I am also asking that you will stay true to your word “not to be a Democrat but an American” and protect our heritage of family by not supporting the homosexual agenda.
Thank you for listening to this one American’s voice. I know that God will bless America if we keep Him and His ways at the center of all we do. May He bless you with the wisdom you will need for the hard decisions ahead."
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Letter to President Bush
Just thought I would share with you the letter I wrote to President Bush last night.
Dear President Bush,
As I sit here watching the election results, my heart is sad. I am sad that the American people have been blinded by what is temporary and have lost focus on what it means to be “one nation under God”. That getting more money in their pockets was more important than preserving the sanctity of life or preserving family by supporting traditional marriage. The only hope I have is that 2 Chronicles 7:14 tells us that when we turn from our wicked ways and pray that the Lord will heal our land and bless us once again.
I just wanted to take time to write to you and thank you for the way that you have served our country as President. I appreciate all that you and Laura have sacrificed to help make this country a better place for us all. I know that things have not been easy for you, and I know that there are many things they are blaming you for. But, we know that with the Democratic control of Congress that you did not have the opportunity to fulfill your dreams.
I have been privileged to be part of the Presidential Prayer Team for the past eight years and have prayed many times that God would protect you and help you stand for His ways. President Bush, I appreciate the way you have maintained your integrity and the way you have upheld your faith. While this country may not reward you, our God will.
Thank you President Bush. I pray that the Lord will bless you with an enjoyable retirement. May you continue to find ways to serve Him. May you and Laura continue to have a blessed life as you enjoy your daughters and your future grandchildren. I close with the blessing of Numbers 6:24-26 “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Dear President Bush,
As I sit here watching the election results, my heart is sad. I am sad that the American people have been blinded by what is temporary and have lost focus on what it means to be “one nation under God”. That getting more money in their pockets was more important than preserving the sanctity of life or preserving family by supporting traditional marriage. The only hope I have is that 2 Chronicles 7:14 tells us that when we turn from our wicked ways and pray that the Lord will heal our land and bless us once again.
I just wanted to take time to write to you and thank you for the way that you have served our country as President. I appreciate all that you and Laura have sacrificed to help make this country a better place for us all. I know that things have not been easy for you, and I know that there are many things they are blaming you for. But, we know that with the Democratic control of Congress that you did not have the opportunity to fulfill your dreams.
I have been privileged to be part of the Presidential Prayer Team for the past eight years and have prayed many times that God would protect you and help you stand for His ways. President Bush, I appreciate the way you have maintained your integrity and the way you have upheld your faith. While this country may not reward you, our God will.
Thank you President Bush. I pray that the Lord will bless you with an enjoyable retirement. May you continue to find ways to serve Him. May you and Laura continue to have a blessed life as you enjoy your daughters and your future grandchildren. I close with the blessing of Numbers 6:24-26 “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Suit Up
Interesting that the past few weeks I have been in the midst of studying about spiritual warfare on a couple of different fronts. We had a discussion several weeks in our Life Group and then the past two weeks it has been the topic of our lessons with the 5th grade Bible class I help teach on Sunday morning. The challenging part about teaching kids, is that you so much want them to get what you know now at their age so they will be further ahead in their walk than you were at their age. Yet, the truth is this walk takes maturing and those sweet kids still have many many lessons to learn before they are mature in their faith. Never the less, I think it is important that they understand what it means to be covered in the armor of God. In one of the devotional thoughts I get by email that was the topic today...spiritual warfare...and Greg Laurie can definitely teach it a lot better than me.
Suit Up!
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. (Ephesians 6:13)
When the apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, he was chained to a Roman guard. So when we come to his description of the armor of God beginning in chapter 6, it's worth noting that Paul had a lot of time to observe Roman armor. There it was, 24 hours a day: breastplate . . . helmet . . . shield . . . sword.
This description was not given in a haphazard manner off the top of Paul's head to pass the time. Rather, these words are inspired by God. There is significance behind every word Paul attached to each piece of armor.
Paul identifies six pieces of armor altogether. The first three--the belt, breastplate, and shoes, were for long-range protection and were never removed on the battlefield. The second three--the shield, the helmet, and the sword--were kept in readiness for use when actual fighting began. So we see that each piece was important.
After all, you could wear your helmet, breastplate, and shield, but without a sword, you would find yourself in the unfortunate position of only defending or holding ground. Or, you might be wearing your sandals, your belt, and have your sword in hand, enabling you to attack enemy strongholds, but you would quickly lose what you gain due to inadequate defense.
We need all of the armor. It is not for us to pick and choose; it is a package deal. God has given us clear and defined spiritual weapons to fight with. Understanding what they are and how to use them can make all the difference in our spiritual battles.
Suit Up!
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. (Ephesians 6:13)
When the apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, he was chained to a Roman guard. So when we come to his description of the armor of God beginning in chapter 6, it's worth noting that Paul had a lot of time to observe Roman armor. There it was, 24 hours a day: breastplate . . . helmet . . . shield . . . sword.
This description was not given in a haphazard manner off the top of Paul's head to pass the time. Rather, these words are inspired by God. There is significance behind every word Paul attached to each piece of armor.
Paul identifies six pieces of armor altogether. The first three--the belt, breastplate, and shoes, were for long-range protection and were never removed on the battlefield. The second three--the shield, the helmet, and the sword--were kept in readiness for use when actual fighting began. So we see that each piece was important.
After all, you could wear your helmet, breastplate, and shield, but without a sword, you would find yourself in the unfortunate position of only defending or holding ground. Or, you might be wearing your sandals, your belt, and have your sword in hand, enabling you to attack enemy strongholds, but you would quickly lose what you gain due to inadequate defense.
We need all of the armor. It is not for us to pick and choose; it is a package deal. God has given us clear and defined spiritual weapons to fight with. Understanding what they are and how to use them can make all the difference in our spiritual battles.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Election Thoughts
So since the election is on all of our minds I thought I would post about it today. I have heard so many people say "God's Will, will be done in the election. Whoever He wants to be president will be president." I disagree. I don't think whoever God wants to be president will be president. It will be whoever the electoral college votes for. I think He will allow us to make a mistake and then use that person for His purposes. Unfortunately, His purposes could be to bring us all to our knees. America cannot be surprised if that happens when we have moved further and further away from the heart of God. I am among the guilty who has allowed prayer to be removed from school, the ten commandments to be removed from buildings, homosexuality to become an acceptable alternative lifestyle, not standing up for the rights of the unborn and on an on it goes. Did you know that teachers in the Plano school district have been told they cannot wear crosses as jewelry,but muslim teachers can still wear their hijabs? It's another example of the way we are moving away from God's heart. I'm not apathetic, I am just uninvolved in making a difference. I do take great hope in 2 Chronicles 7:14 that God will give us another chance when we fall to our knees and pray and seek His ways.
I liked this list that Anita sent today in an email. It does give us all hope.
TEN PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION:
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost.
I liked this list that Anita sent today in an email. It does give us all hope.
TEN PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION:
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost.
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