The Crisis of Defining What Christmas Means.

Happy Holidays. Seasons Greetings. Happy Hanukkah. Happy Kwanza. Ho-Ho-Ho. Big Sale Today Only. The many languages of Christmas echo today! The message of Christmas has changed in recent years to an inclusive “anything goes” motif. The excuse is given that we are a free country and many come from other traditions. But, is this real true? If so, why it is that store merchant’s issue edicts restricting the use of Christ is the Holiday greetings by its employees. The social norms are changing.

What has happened to us that we have so secularized and commercialized this time of year that Santa Claus is more important than Christ in the Manger?

Employee parties are now called Seasonal Events. Holiday spirits now only refer to the open bars. Town parades are Winter Festivals. Nativities are removed. School parties are Mid-year Class Parties. Kids are encouraged to bring non-religious gifts.

Christmas is having an identity crisis. The real reason for our celebration is lost. We have become trapped in a land of the abyss! Now, I am not a Grinch or scrooge. I enjoy the fun in Santa and the heritage of Hanukkah. These traditions at least embrace a godly and biblical value of giving and goodwill.

The problem is that the definition of Christ in Bethlehem is lost. The society we live in is much like the Inn Keeper who made little sacrifice to welcome a needy pregnant woman. The Inn Keeper had no room!

A side from the reality that the Inn Keeper rejected our Savior, his business made no previsions for the poor or someone in crisis. Shame on this busy business owner! The least what he could have done was let them rest near his the fire.

Perhaps the real Grinch this Christmas are those, like the Inn Keeper, who have relished the materialistic commerce and profit and squeezed out anything of charity and goodwill! What has happened that the real meaning of Christ’s birth announcing His gift to the world has been re-defined? This year, even though the merchants don’t say “MERRY CHRISTMAS” I hope that I am willing to announce the good news of Christ’s birth to all. Just because my boss refuses to acknowledge the Reason for the Season, may I bring goodwill to all! Even though there was no room for Christ’s birth at the Inn, may I always welcome love and charity into my home! Who knows, we just might remember the real significance of Christmas!

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS: A NEW LOOK AT AN OLD CHRISTMAS CAROL!

Today is not the First Day of Christmas but some interest thoughts occurred to me as I reflect upon this familiar Christmas jingle. (See: http://www.crivoice.org/cy12days.html // Quote from this web site: “Contrary to much popular belief, these are not the twelve days before Christmas, but in most of the Western Church are the twelve days from Christmas until the beginning of Epiphany (January 6th; the 12 days count from December 25th until January 5th). In some traditions, the first day of Christmas begins on the evening of December 25th but the following day is considered the First Day of Christmas (December 26th).”)

The history of this jingle goes back to a time when Christians celebrated Christmas in secret due to the religious conflict in their society, war, and the persecution of Christians. The odd gifts were coded messages of the real meaning of Christmas. (Quote from web site: “The popular song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually seen as simply a nonsense song for children. However, some have suggested that it is a song of Christian instruction dating to the 16th century religious wars in England, with hidden references to the basic teachings of the Faith. They contend that it was a mnemonic device to teach the catechism to youngsters. The "true love" mentioned in the song is not an earthly suitor, but refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person who is part of the Christian Faith. Each of the "days" represents some aspect of the Christian Faith that was important for children to learn.”) None the less, here are my reflective thoughts.

A side from spiritual, here are a few interpretive ideas from the 12 Days of Christmas song.

Firsts are always the most exciting. The first day of Christmas gift is a partridge in a pear tree. What a first gift! The receiving of this gift is certainly a metaphor of Christ’s birth*. Remember your first date? Remember your first kiss? Remember the first time you drove a car? Many first are remembered best. This first gift must have been hard to top. Never the less, it is being first that sets it a part from the other gifts.

(*From the web site: Quote: “The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus the Christ, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on December 25, the first day of Christmas. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge that feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings, recalling the expression of Christ's sadness over the fate of Jerusalem: "Jerusalem! Jerusalem! How often would I have sheltered you under my wings, as a hen does her chicks, but you would not have it so . . . ." (Luke 13:34)”)

Secondly, I have a question. What did "my true love" ever do with all of those strange gifts? What would you do with them? It gives new meaning to public storage! This series of gifts, like so many gifts today, are stored and neglected. Over time, they make great garage sale items. Perhaps what makes these 12 Days of Christmas gifts worth while is the sentimental value placed upon them of the understanding of their spiritual metaphoric significance. It is very hard to “throw away” those sentimental items, isn’t it?

Third, how would the giver of such gifts ever top these gifts next Christmas? You've done it too. You have given gifts that you wonder, how can I top that one? The gift is so extravagant or such a perfect fit, you will have a hard time doing better next year.

Well, you wonder, what's the point? My silly ramblings do have a point. That being said, here are three principles to consider when looking for a gift.

Never give your best gift first unless you intent to give gifts the eleven other days of Christmas. Perhaps the 12 Days of Christmas followed by eleven other days because he had to top day one, day two and so on!

Never give a gift that has the potential of becoming someone's "white elephant" gift exchange or garage sale item next year.

Never out-give yourself. Don't give a gift that you can not improve upon. It must have been hard for the giver of the 12 Days gifts to top these gifts.

Perhaps the best advice I offer is to make the gift practical. Think for a moment if you would use it? If so, go ahead and give it. Another word of advice for those who are thinking about someone in the family; you should give something that you can share or do together like dinner of a game you can share together later. The most practical gift of the 12 days of Christmas is perhaps the “eight maids a milking.” Something to eat is perhaps the best gift!

One more idea is to make something not just something you buy. The 12 Days gifts were mostly purchased but one gift that may mean the most to the ‘true love' is something made. In this case it must have been the “five golden rings!”

Don't stress yourself this year. More than half of all gifts purchased this year will be on a charge card this 18% interests. Don't create a crisis about bearing gifts. In the case of the wise men, they each brought something that was undoubtedly from their own possessions and the gifts they brought were practical! See: http://www.christiananswers.net/dictionary/wisemen.html // ("The record does not specifically say that there were three, or that they were kings; this is assumed by some from the number and types of gifts that were given to Jesus (gold, frankincense, and myrrh). The gifts reflected the aspects of Christ's nature: gold to a king, myrrh to one who will die, and incense, as homage to a God. None of the Church Fathers suggested that these men were kings, but there was obvious wealth involved. It is possible that the wealth was theirs, or that they were religious or scholarly envoys of royalty in a distant land.")

I Met The Christmas Story Yesterday!

Yesterday I met a man who is the Christmas story! His name is Dennis. I know, you expected me to say Jesus and refer to an Advent Sermon. But, as I reflect on the incredible testimony and witness of faith, I am once again brought low to the humble manger scene and Christ's humble birth.

Hope is defined through adversity! Dennis is a local pastor who is afflicted with a brain tumor. His prognosis isn't real positive. He will die. Yet, when I saw him yesterday, he spoke of faith and gave praise to God. It is through his adversity that his faith is strongest. Dennis has every reason to give up and complain about his situation. Life has been very unfair to him. Yet, he didn't bad mouth his condition, he welcomed it and spoke of how his faith has grown. WOW! It is through adversity and testing that hope is born.

Mary and Joseph faced many hardships not to mention Herod's attempted on their young son's life! Yet as the Magi visited them, they realized that hope was born. Jesus was born in humble means and through adversity and yet his birth brought so much hope. Mary undoubtedly experienced the pain of giving birth but also would come to know of the inner pain of loosing a son to death on a cross. Yet, her courage is clear. In the scripture she held onto hope through out her life.

Today, as we face hardships and problems, may we experience hope. It will bring joy to our soul and carry us through any adversity.

Dennis has hope. That is why he can face such a difficult illness. It is why he has a living and wonderful testimony for others. He knows of a hope that the world did not and can not give! His hope is in the Lord.

Just remember today, friend, that our joy is not circumstance driven. It is based on eternal value.

Jesus is the reason!

Waiting: What Mary has to offer!

Ever wonder about how Mary, the mother of Jesus, dealt with the waiting of her first born son? Now I know little of the physical and emotional attachments of pregnancy. Yet I wonder what it was like for Mary to have to wait for the birth of her first born son. The Bible offers a few brief glimpse. We see in the Song of Mary that she pondered the reality of giving birth to the King of Kings. Another example is the description that is given about Mary. The Bible says that Mary "pondered" in her heart the profound reality of an immaculate conception.

Perhaps the most interesting perspective on waiting is told of how Mary and her espoused husband, Joseph traveled miles to their home town of Bethlehem to register for the census. It must have been terribly alarming for this young expected mother. Every situation she was confronted with was new. This young couple would experience for the first time all things: awkwardness of a young relationship, moving, a strange pregnancy, living in humble circumstances (a stable), and the visitation of unknown messengers; shepherds and wise men. How incredible were her circumstances.

The many questions she must have had. She must have been overwhelmed!

It is interesting to me that we see Mary so patiently involved. The fact that Mary was so patiently waiting for the deliver of her son, our saviour. WOW! Her profound faith is evident. She took a promise and carried the hope for the world in her womb and gave birth to the One who would save her people, and us, from sin. The message of waiting is profound!

I find that Mary has such incredible understanding of the meaning of waiting. I find at least three ideas that come from Mary in how she was able to wait.

1. Her pondering included questions that deepened her faith.
2. She was willing to take the journey (to Bethlehem) because of a promise, though it was not yet realized.
3. Her faith was not dependent upon having all the answers before she acted.

There simple truths can be applied to our journey too. Our questions deepen our resolve to believe. We are waiting for a hope net yet realized fully. Our faith is not dependent upon having all the answers before we act according to our faith. May this Christmas, though we wait, bring us a renewed hope in Christ.

The Attitude of Gratitude Changes Things!

This Thanksgiving season I reflect on the attitude. It is my conviction that our attitude determines much of the outcome of negative circumstances. In life, it seems that our ability to overcome negative situations is determined by way we look at things. Ninety percent of what happens to us is not circumstantial but attitudinal. It is about how we handle what happens to us that matters!

The problems with problems is that we give up too quickly when we fall on hard times. The challenges of life have little to do with the life and death issues but more about attitude. Pastor Bob, my pastor, gave a simple illustration about a squeeze bottle of honey. He asked, "If I squeeze the bottle, what will come out? Honey!" He continued, "What if the bottle contained vinegar?" The point is clear. Whatever is in us will come out when we are squeezed.

Under pressure we produce what we are. If our attitude us expectant of bad outcomes, so too will be our resolve. It is not that the circumstances of a situation changes but how we deal with a negative circumstance can effect the outcomes. It seems that Romans 8:28 rings familiar here. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that are called according to His purpose."

God has a plan, just as Jeremiah realized when he penned the words, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not harm you." God does want His best for us! Even in trouble, God can make something good come of it. So remember, that when times are hard, we don't have to become hard and bitter. When times treat us badly, we have a wonderful God who has a plan. Our part is to have the right attitude; an attitude of gratitude because it will change things!

FW: Quick thought on crisis.

Finding Christ in Crisis is the unique role of the church. When the
church is being what it is called to be, its witness of Christ is
evident.

I am glad when I discover a church being a reflection of Christ! So
that those in Crisis see the church respond with the Presence of Christ
with empathy and compassion.

Tragedy Followed By God's Touch!

2 Corinthians 1:3-6
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. New International Version

When tragedy strikes any home there is a tremendous amount of confusion, questions, blame and numbness. Tragedy overwhelms our capacity to process and make sense of a situation. Those involved are so overwhelmed by the sudden loss their emotions become unable to process and they become overloaded! Grief takes over!

Recenly the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church was called upon to bring help, healing and comfort because of a tragic suicide. The whole church was impacted by this sudden and tragic death. The suicide of anyone no matter the age is tough to cope with but a loss of a teen is epecially difficult. This loss brought out difficult emotions for many.

Today, I wish to address a couple of issues that the church faces in times of incredible tragedy and loss. I wish to say first of all to anyone reading this article that I was so appreciative and impressed with the role our pastors served. Their compassion and outreach to the family was a witness to the love our God has for us in Christ. They brought a ministry of God's presence and they lifted up the hurting in such a wonderful way. They each dedicated themselves to prayer and spiritual guidance that helped the family and also assisted the church people through their own grief and loss. This article is not intended to bring complain or criticism to our staff or leadership at Brookhaven.

The first thing that happens in times of tremendous loss like this is a sense of helplessness. Many unanswered questions arise during these kinds of situations. Some may even feel frustrated and experience unrelated hurt and personal grief. For those that have experienced any loss during their lives they experience compounded grief. They are grasping to find condolence for their past grief while also feeling a responsibility to bring comfort to those closest to the family. Their grief is compounded because they also carry personal hurt and anquished unresolved from previous loss.

Another issue that occurs in the church body is a feeling of responsibility. Many questions why this tragedy was not overted. Some are dealing with the blaming cycle of grief. Others are faced with disbelief that such tragedy could have even happened at their church. They might even make comments wondering what is wrong that our church that such a tragedy could happen. Some may look to "fix"this tragedy and develop programs that can prevent such tragedy in the future.

For these brief reason I write this article. These two common issues stem from a desire to resolve to such unresolved grief. While it is understandable and with the best of intentions that the church looks for ways to prevent tragedy in the future, it is unrealistic to believe that somehow the church can. I wish to encourage the people of Brookhaven and other churches faced with such a tragedy. Clearly, this tragedy is unsettling and it is completely normal to feel uncomfortable. Tragedy is never giving, it only takes!

The role of the church as a community is never intended to prevent tragedy but it stands ready to serve those in need. A church at this is compassionate and caring will always be called upon to help the hurting and bring comfort to those in difficult situations. The church should not and can not create a "bubble" that prevents its people from experiencing pain and suffering. As long as we live we will be faced with hardship and tough times! I wish to encourage the church to believe that the reason Brookhaven was called upon in this way is because God knows that it can and will be a place of hope, healing and help in the Name of Christ!

Now a word about the two issues addressed. For those that have faced loss of a loved one, realize your own grief when other's face tragedy. Know that your grief is part of the process of healing you are still experiencing and that you will continue to experience your grief for many years to come. Acknowledge that you do hurt and it is okay to feel! Reach out to someone and let them care for you.

For the church that feels responsible. There is no amount of planning and prevention that can keep these tragedies from our door-step! While closeness and community have its place and every church should intentionally reach out to eachother, there are times when tragedies just happen. It is a fact of life this side of heaven! A church that is overly responsible may infact create greater stress on its membership and staff by always trying to "safe guard." Bad things just happen! Please do not miss this, the church is not designed to avoid, prevent, or keep tragedy from coming! The church's role is designed to respond to tragedy and be a compassionate extension of our savior's love!

A church is at its best when it stands ready to bring comfort and the message of God's love to those hurting. We will always wish we could avoid tragedy but may we never avoid it or those in need of the ministry that the church (the body of Christ) can provide! Thank God that the church did respond in time of need. What an incredible witness of God's love!

Crisis and Happiness

The impact of trauma effects our happiness if happiness is but only circumstance-driven. Happiness is deeper than this. Many think happiness is related to materialism or even tied to good times. Happiness is not simply related to a feeling. It isn't just an emotion.

Psalm 1 says blessed is.... It relates to far more than an internal attitude. Its source is found in God.

So, when the storms of life come, we don't need to give up happiness. Sure, there is a time of mourning. There is an effect that is negative when trauma impacts our lives. I am not saying that we pretend to be happy when life's circumstance is negative. But, the inner strength of mankind should not easily taken away when faced with crisis.

Happiness is an inner confidence. It comes from the joy department of the inner soul! It is not simply to laugh or become cynical. It has an inner confidence that God is able to take this circumstance and make something beautiful. (Romans 8:28)

A Crisis Evangelist will demonstrate an inner strength - a joy - that goes deeper than trauma and circumstance. They are able to convey a sense of confidence. They are patient and empathetic. They provide a calming presence. While the world is rocked by crisis the evangelist will not preach but demonstrate a peace that passes all understanding.

Practicing the presence of God is our strength. We know that no matter the circumstance, God is with us.

Tools That Help!

What's in your toolbelt that serves people in crisis?

Every plumber I ever called for service had an adequate supply of resources. They have proper tools, pipes and knowledge that provided assistance to resolve my problems. The same is true for every profession. Having the right "stuff" is key to providing assistance.

The same is true in crisis evangelism. While many tools are intangible, having the right tools is key. What are these tools?

One. A heart that listens intently.

Two. Time.

These two resources are the answers needed for those in crisis.

Many people believe that they need to have the right answer and feel the need to fix the problems. But this puts a barrier for those in crisis.

The next time someone is in need, start with intentional listening and be willing to take the time necessary to demonstrate compassion and the presence of Christ.

Quote on Adversity

Victor Frankl one wrote, "A weak faith is weakened by perdicaments and catastrophes whereas a strong faith is measured by them."

Think about it. God intends to help is in our weaknesses.

Job 19:25-27

Job 19:25-27

19:25- I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
19:26- And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;
19:27- I myself will see him with my own eyes--I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

New International Version

In The Midst Of It All!

In the midst of hard-ache and trouble the Bible tells us that God is with us. His comfort and hope of eternal life abides ever sure. As you face hardship, know that God is your strength.

As Job suffered hard ache at the hand of our arch enemy. He drew his strength from God. While the hardship brought loneliness and pain, he knew that God would deliver him. (Job 1:13-22)

In the midst of pain and trouble we are challenged to give up. But Job looked to God. Job did not charge God with his trouble.

Today I am reminded that we should prepare for the storms of life. Pastor Bob of the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church encouraged us to spiritually prepare for the difficult days. Job's loss is an example for us. He was the most prestigous and wealthy of his day. He was a God-fearing and pure, moral example. This was a time where God's blessing was not seen!

In times of trouble, we should look to God.

In my many times that I have met with people who are suffering heart-ache. The enemy would like us to give up but God has something in it that would ultimately bless us. I have tried to console many who are suffering with the words that bring comfort and hope. Much of the time I have had no words but have sat in silence with someone who is hurting. Words are so shallow in these times anyways.

Crisis Evangelism is all about the presence of God in times of trouble. Christians should be present in times of trouble. There is no greater, more sacred time to comfort the brokenhearted. (See Isaiah 61)

Today, take time to bring a ministry to the hurting and broken-hearted.

Is belief a matter of signs and miracles?

John taught the Jesus came to speak belief into us through our receiving of His message. Many believe because of good times and good fortune. Others believe because of miracles. Yet other believe because of a condition set.

I contend, as does Dr. Smith in chapel today, that belief is in you because of the Word of God in us! See John 15 for a context where belief is comprised. Is your belief based on signs or upon abiding in Christ's words?

In times of trouble, believe in Him. No matter the times, believe. In good and bad, believe. Our belief is not in me if it is circumstance oriented.

See 1 John for further clarification on belief. See John 3 to see how one man discovers the "new birth" of belief! Later we see this man burying the Man of Christ! He believed! It is a resurrection faith!

The danger of loosing heart!

There is a problem we all encounter. It is complacency. The danger often causes us to risk becoming indifferent and cold-hearted. The things that we once were concerned about become non-essential.

Such indifference causes us to loose heart within as well as disconcerned about those in need around us. Complacency has its effect on our world view as well as what we choose to become involved in.

Every profession has within it the danger of becoming so familier with our duty that we loose the human emotion. Perhaps the routines that occupy our day no longer become interesting. We may even forget why we even do what we do. Police Officers and EMT worker run this risk. Nurses may also run this risk. They become complacent and indifferent.

As Christians, we too run the risk of knowing everything about doctrine and the Bible but loose heart. We become routine-driven! While on the other hand, there are many who suffer pain and heart-ache. We may even believe that someone's pain is their fault! Our heart becomes cold and indifferent.

The point is to know the Truth and have a heart for those in need. I encourage you reach out to the disadvantaged and hurting. You may even discover that the feeling and attitude of complacency will fade as you get engaged in the needs of the lost and hurting.

Don't loose heart! Care for those in need. It may even surprise you to learn that as you care and demonstrate grace, your own spirit will be renewed.

The Amish Witness

(Taken from thepoint.breakpoint.com)

A day after the tragic, execution-style murders of Amish girls in a one-room Lancaster County schoolhouse, the lead for this story on ABC's World News Tonight was not school safety, the sordid past of the shooter, or the ever unanswerable "why?" It was forgiveness. Amish relatives of the dead and injured girls stood before the cameras and told the world that they believe God is in control and that God's forgiveness of them leads them to forgive others.

The Amish are part of the Holiness Movement. The name derives from their theology, but there is something about these separatists, and their more worldly cousins the Brethren and Mennonites, that radiates holiness. You see it on their faces and feel it in their presence. Confronted with a tragic evil, the world that usually only sees quaint buggies and handmade quilts got a glimpse of the very real faith that undergirds this community They withdrew from the world, but when the world came to them, they were ready.

Posted by Kristine Steakley on October 03, 2006 at 09:57 PM in Religion & Society Permalink

Something ENLIGHTENING to think about...

ONLY IN AMERICA:

 

Only  America...do drugstores make the sick walk all the way to the back of the store to get their prescriptions while healthy people can buy cigarettes at the front!

 

 

Only in America...do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries and a diet coke!

 

 

Only in America...do banks leave both doors open and then chain the pens to the counters!

 

 

Only in America...do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and! put our useless junk in the garage!

 

 

Only in America...do we buy hot dogs in packages of ten and buns in packages of eight

 

 

Only in America...do we use the word 'politics' to describe the process so well: 'Poli' in Latin meaning 'many' and 'tics' meaning 'bloodsucking creatures'!

 

 

Only in America...do they have drive-up ATM machines with Braille lettering!

 

 

EVER WONDER...

 

 

Why the sun lightens our hair, but darkens our skin?

 

 

Why women can't put on mascara with their mouth closed?

 

 

Why you never see the headline "Psychic Wins Lottery"?

 

 

Why "abbreviated" is such a long word?

 

 

Why doctors call what they do "practice"?

 

 

Why lemon juice is made with artificial flavor, and dishwashing liquid made with real lemons?

 

 

Why the man who invests all your money is called a broker?

 

 

Why the time of day with the slowest traffic is called rush hour?

 

 

Why there isn't mouse-flavored cat food?

 

 

 

Why Noah didn't swat those two mosquitoes?

 

Why they sterilize the needle for lethal injections?

 

You know that indestructible black box that is used on airplanes? Why don't they make the whole plane out of that stuff?!

 

 

Why don't sheep shrink when it rains?

 

 

Why are they called apartments when they are all stuck together?

 

 

If con is the opposite of pro, is Congress the opposite of progress?

 

 

If flying is so safe, why do they call the airport the terminal?

------------------

 

Now that you've smiled at least once, it's your turn to spread the stupidity and send this to someone you want to bring a smile to,

 

(maybe even a chuckle)...in other words, send it to everyone. We all need to smile every once in a while.

Demas loved the world.

In 2 Timothy 4:9 we read that Paul encouraged the believer to live a life worthy of receiving a crown or prize for eternity. This is good advice. He also illustrates this by giving a negative example in Demas.

Little is known of Demas. We know that he has left the faith. He chose the goods of this life and missed the eternal reward of God. Imagine reading the Sunday's paper only to find your name in print for choosing not the things of God.

In life, many would rather choose the things that bring pleasure and accumulate stuff of this world. But what of the non-tangibles? There are many whose worldly intangibles are just as worldly. Think about the many worries we amass. Think of the many anxieties we worry about. They are not things but have the same results.

We, like Demas, who live worldly lives. Worry and anxiety are just as natural. These things will also distract us from the faith God wants to give us.

The next time you find yourself in a crisis and you resort to worldly influence, consider this; God will reward our enduring faith that is laid up for Christ's glory. Storms will come (just as the disciples realized when caught up in a storm with Jesus) and they will challenge our faith. God wants to strengthen us and help us in times of trouble. He is faithful.

Let us run the race marked out for us. Let it not be said that (insert your name) "Demas" loved the world.

NOW! It isn't always the right time.

1 Peter 5:6 says to “Humble yourselves, therefore under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

WAITING is perhaps the hardest thing to do. In our hurry up and "get ‘r done" attitude, instant-everything, microwave, fast food eating and tivo entertainment we expect that our personal lives should function the same. In reality, it just doesn’t work that way!

We may thing that the problem is within ourselves. We feel guilty if our problems carry over into tomorrow or even next week. We think that we ought to “have it together” all the time. But, some things just take time! There are times when we just have to wait on God. He patiently develops perseverance and trust during these times. He reveals His nature and plan during those times when life seems to be on-hold.

Peter has it right, in due time God will lift you up. In His time table not ours. God knows best. William Cowper once wrote; “Events of all sorts creep or fly exactly as God pleases.” Be sure, God who is in control is also just on time. He is never too late or too early. He, who created the universe through the spoken word and holds the stars in place by His mighty hand, can surely handle your grief and suffering.

We may desire instant solution and demand an answer NOW! This may not be the right time. Be patient, draw near to God and He will unfold His works in due time.

An Illustration I found on-line...

As a group of amateur climbers scaled part of the Matterhorn near Zermatt, Switzerland, a vicious gust of wind came along at a narrow ledge. The guide quickly shouted, "Get down on your knees! You are safe only on your knees!" That’s good advice for all of us: The ledges of life are narrow, and the winds are strong. Only on our knees, seeking God relentlessly in our prayers, can we find safety and security.

 

Stay low to the ground – on our knees to Jesus!

 

In Keeping With Devotional Life - Practicing the Presence of God

Today I read my devotions and made a discovery that caught my attention.  In working with people who are dealing with difficult times and crisis in their lives, I often have consoled people who believe that God has abandoned them in their time of need.  Many in Biblical days like Job and David have felt that God has abandoned them.  Their grief was so over whelming that their interpretation of God’s presence was misunderstood.

 

In one scene you find David contemplating the immeasurable greatness of God.  In Psalm 139:7-10 you find his narrative.  He asks the question, “Where can I go from your Spirit?  Where can I flee from your presence?”  See the end of this blog for the complete passage.   It seems that at this time in David’s life the reality of God’s greatness is clear.  In keeping with this, Meister Eckhart wrote: “God is nearer to me than I am to myself; my existence depends on the nearness and the presence of God.” 

 

The part that caught my attention is the thought that if God isn’t near that many assume that He has not moved but that we have somehow gotten away from Him.  Well, this thought, while rational, isn’t exactly accurate.  If God is capable of being near always, should not we assume that He tracks our ever subtle movement away from Himself.  While this may be semantics, I think that we should realize that as humans, we are may feel like God is far away when in reality He isn’t.  Because we are self-centered and narcissistic creatures we loose focus on the reality of God’s presence but He is never far away.  No matter where we may go!  The problem of God’s presence isn’t found in God but in ourselves.  We “loose touch” with Him and believe that somehow God takes a vacation away from us. 

 

God isn’t always interested in our good times.  He is interested in our bad times too.  He isn’t afraid to draw near to us in sad times.  He, in fact loves to reveal His presence to us even in bad times.  The next time you ruminate over this issue of God’s presence, realize that it is impossible to escape God’s presence!  The only separation many will realize is in eternity but in this life, He is near.  No matter if we recognize, ignore or attempt to deny the presence of God.  HE IS ALWAYS NEAR AND NOT THAT FAR AWAY!

 

New International Version

1 O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. 5 You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! 18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. 19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God! Away from me, you bloodthirsty men! 20 They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord, and abhor those who rise up against you? 22 I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

New International Version

 

Does God Really Love Me? How can I be Sure?

Many ask, does God love me? They wonder, if God loves me, why doesn't He make life easier for me? If he loves us, why is there so much suffering and global poverty? Shouldn't He make life easier. If He love me, wouldn't He provide, protect and preserve me; keeping me from harm or hardship.

The Bible is clear. God loves me. Never do we need to doubt this. Passage after passage the Bible is clear. However, many look at life and judge God's love by what inequaties they see. Perhaps you also see this and wonder too. The news and media certainly provide enough evidence that may cause you to doubt God's love. Why, even the weather report is bad news!

The author of 1 John certainly speaks to this theme. His message is that of God's love. These inspired words of God provide a clear answer to the question of love. It also speaks of the fallen world we occupy. There are many who suffer. There is world hunger. We know of terribly evil deeds that occure. Wars exist. Hate is evident. Greed is on the rise.

God is aware of all of this. He so loved us that He sent a means of hope and rescue from this world. This is the message of the evangelicals and the mission of evangelization. We know our redeemer lives so that we too can live.

Now, for the message on suffering. The Bible says that we walk by faith and not by sight. If we were to gather all the evidence we see and ignore the evidence we do not see we miss the fundamental Truth of God's unfailing Love. God knows of our suffering and the hurt and pain of those living in poverty, sickness and hardship of every kind. He has provided peace in the midst of broken pieces. We live in a sin-fallen world but God, through Christ, has give us new life and a hope of an eternal home in heaven. This is a place where there is no more suffering or pain.

Does God really love me? How can I be sure? Read Psalm 84. His master plan of salvation is trustworthy! In verse ten it reads, "A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked." We can be sure of His love because of the precious hope in Jesus. Read John 3:16-17 and discover this blessed hope for yourself.

Being An Influence!

Ezekiel 33:7-11 tells us a message that we must proclaim. God has sent
us as a watchman for those in need.

There are many courageous deeds we can do that changes a life for the
better. Even if our acts are not dramatic or life-changing, we all have
contributed good-will for others.

Ezekiel tells us that there is a message we know that changes the lives
of others. He says that there is a message we carry in which we are
responsible to communicate. We are not responsible for the choice
someone makes but we have a duty to communicate the message. God says
that while he will hold us responsible for another's choice, we have an
obligation to announce God's good news.

As we encounter those in need, we have the power over the life and death
of another. Your decision to love another possesses the power of
influence! Your act of kindness releases the extraordinary power of
influence! Your gift of time or talent unleashed the incredible power
of influence! You, yes you, when you take your watchman responsibility,
will change a life for the better!

Our message is not of judgement but that of love. Our message is not of
rebuke but of a hope of life eternal. Our message is not of my will but
of a Will and plan God has for those in need of life everlasting.

Today, what message will I no longer resist telling? What person will I
now influence? What will I sacrifice that will give and support
another?

Am I a lighthouse - life-saving station? Do people know me as a
spiritual hospital aid? Am I too busy to give for the sake of others?

Ezekiel provides us with a purpose and meaning to our influence. Not
that I gain but that others received because I didn't.

9/11 Rememberance Event

Local heroes lead county in 9/11 retrospective
Speakers at downtown ceremony remind of need for awareness
BY RACHEL KIPP - rlkipp@marion.gannett.com

She was born several years before the World Trade Center opened, but as a child sightseeing in New York City, Laurie Marx thought the Twin Towers had forever been part of the skyline. "I was born in 1966 - I turned 40 this summer - and it opened in the 1970s," said Marx, Marion. "When you're a kid, you don't realize that kind of thing." Forever ended five years ago this week, with images that are seared in everyone's memory. Carrying American flags, dressed in uniform or in red, white and blue, area emergency responders and others gathered in Marion City Hall on Monday evening to honor those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and to thank those who continue to fight in wars overseas and at home. "It's important that we don't forget the day's importance and that we remember every day that we're still at war with terrorism," Marion Mayor Wayne Seybold said. "We have people who put their lives on the line every single day, whether it's here at home or whether it's abroad, so we as Americans can live our lives as we have for many years." Seybold, who was in Thailand recently with a group of local children participating in the World Children's Games, recalled stories told by the Israeli team of taking shelter from regular bomb threats. But he said the threat of terror is not always so far away. "There are things that go on that we don't let you know, sometimes in Marion, Indiana," he said. "So let's not forget this nation, Indiana, Marion, Indiana, we're still at war." Marion police and fire honor guards carried to the front of the crowd two memorial wreaths. During the ceremony, they flanked a memorial quilt Marx is piecing together from blocks she and others made after the material was passed out during 2002's National Quilting Day in Marion. She hopes to donate the finished product to a proposed Sept. 11 memorial museum. "It should make a nice large wall hanging," Marx said. Growing up, Dianna Newton was asked where she was when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. A different question, about their whereabouts on Sept. 11, 2001, will be posed to today's youth, she said. "I can remember sitting with my co-workers watching the plane fly behind the second tower and saying to another dispatcher, 'Where did that plane go?'" said Newton, a dispatcher at Marion Police Department. "It still had not dawned on me that a plane could go into the tower. I never thought I would see anything like it." Other Grant County residents described seeing the devastation at Ground Zero in person. Taylor University spokesman Jim Garringer boarded a bus bound for New York City with a group of students and staff several weeks after Sept. 11. Their trip was not to include a visit to the World Trade Center site, but that soon changed. Many times since, Garringer has been asked to name the most enduring memory of the experience. "It wasn't seeing the buildings; I'd seen that on television. When I saw it in real life, it was just a smoking ruin," he said. "As awful as that was, what made a greater impact on me, on my heart, were the people we met. "We talked to a police officer whose eyes teared up when we told him we were praying for him," Garringer continued, his voice cracking. "We met a 12-year-old girl who said, 'We're here looking for my mother.'" Grant County Commissioner Mark Bardsley, chaplain for the Marion Police Department, read entries he wrote in a journal while in New York counseling workers at Ground Zero. He read about a night spent praying for the dead over and over again as rescuers found more human remains. "'After a 14½-hour shift and more bodies exhumed, the day was done,'" Bardsley read. "'But this is what I came for - to serve.'" As the service drew to a close, the group recognized those in the room who serve in Grant County, providing emergency services to area residents. As their names were called, members of local police and fire departments, paramedics, conservation officers, dispatchers and others raised a hand and were acknowledged for their efforts. Marion fire Capt. Paul Thompson recalled attending a ceremony in New York when families received medals on behalf of more than 300 firefighters killed Sept. 11. "I say to you all, God bless their memory and to their families, and may God keep us safe," Thompson said. "They raised the bar. They set a standard for us to live up to. ... They may be gone, but they are not forgotten." Originally published September 12, 2006

The Body of Christ - Living and Active!

Tonight I am considering the work of the Body of Christ. The passage found in Romans 12:4-6 teach us about the works of the Body -- Ask yourself, what does the body of Christ mean?
Some say: Love - Support - Accountability - Refuge - Care - Community - Family - Belonging!
While these attributes describe the qualities, the Church is much more. How about - TEAM WORK?

Is the body of Christ a personal walk in Christ? Isn't it a personal spiritual walk in Holiness and religious piety? Certainly that is a part of it but isn't there more?

The work of the Body is dynamic and active. It has a responsibility for meeting needs. It is responsible for those who have little. It is a living and powerful "dynamo" that impacts those around us.

Jesus said that we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. This is a mandate not an option! It is a requirement to love others not just a busy social life.
Each of us have gifts to offer! The living church is a loving and active verb - not a noun. It is not a stained glass cathedral or quiet museum of historical artifacts. The church will be judged by it's quality of love not it's professional portfolio.

I have heard it said that love is spelled t-i-m-e. I also believe that love is spelled t-i-m-e s-p-e-n-t l-o-v-i-n-g.

Our test in heaven will be in relationship with Christ for eternity sake but we will be judge based on what we do in Christ to love our neighbors!

So, if you are asked to carry your brothers coat one mile, carry it two miles!

A Fresh Start

Tomorrow I begin a new position at Indiana Wesleyan University. I am the new Alumni Director. This new position is both exciting and scary. I have many new things to learn, people to meet and work to do! This change comes after much prayer and searching for God's direction. There are many interesting changes that have occurred over the summer months but suffice to say, God has led every step!

Beginning something new also means facing new challenges, meeting new people and changing many routines. This change also offers a fresh start. For this reason, I contemplate the passage of scripture that says: (22) You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; (23) to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (24) and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:22-24

When something is new it is initially exciting and feared. Many questions arise. You feel vulnerable. You tend to question yourself more; second guessing many typically held views. Even when change comes as part of your Christian walk, your natural tendency to question the implications of the unknown. This is especially true when change is negative and unexpected.

God is showing me that He can further deepen my faith and strengthen my walk with Him. I have a new heightened understanding of truth and faith in God. Often we thing of this passage referring to new believers but it may also apply to those who have walked with the Lord for many years. God, who is forming me in His image, has many lessons yet to teach me. Just in changing jobs there are many new experiences, so too in our walk with Christ.

This new position is a fresh start. It is an opportunity to learn and also to grow in my relationship with Christ. While many things remain the same, there are many more things that will further develop me personally and spiritually.

The right thing at the right time with the right motive

"I'm not concerned about all hell breaking loose, but that a PART of hell will break loose... It'll be much harder to detect. " George Carlin - US comedian and actor (1937 - )

I like this saying in general. It is especially profound when complacency sets in. While I can not endorse everything George Carlin has said or written, I like this interesting quote with a slight variation. "I am not concerned about all hell breaking loose, but that if it does, it will be hard to detect." It says to me that I must be on my guard at all times of my life. For me, the concern I have is that the work of Satan may be underway while I remain unaware of it's influence. As a believer, the problem may not be in the "out and out" sinful selection of it's influence but in missing the best God has for me.

There are times when crisis comes and I fully miss God's lesson for me. While at other times, when life seems to be going so well, do I miss the opportunity to fully depend on Him? I am thankful that God is patient willing to guide me, eventhough it may take a while.

In recent days I have come to conclude that Christ is with me in a whole new, refreshing way! This profound truth is like I have never really known this before. Sure, I have preached it and counseled many but may have missed it for me personally. Like a bolt of lightning, I understand this truth as if it were the first time!

The challenge in life is not doing the wrong thing - this is all to obvious to all of us! The challenge is doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason. God's divine direction is living on the cutting edge of a personal relationship that will revolutionize the soul daily.

When crisis comes, do we see Christ in the midst of it? On this one-year and one day anniversary of Hurricane Katrina have we learned the obvious lesson that Christ is with us even in the midst of tragedy as well in the midst of calm.

Emergency Workers are dealing with stress and crisis every day. Read the following stat and realize the importance of praying for and supporting Law Enforcement Personnel.

SEVENTY-FIVE OFFICERS KILLED IN FIRST HALF OF 2006; TRAFFIC-RELATED FATALITIES ON THE RISE

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The number of police officers killed nationwide during the first half of 2006 increased by more than seven percent over the same period last year. Seventy-five federal, state, and local law enforcement officers were killed during the first six months of 2006, according to preliminary numbers recently released jointly by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) and the Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS). This is an increase from the 70 officers who lost their lives during the same period in 2005.

California and New York were the deadliest states for law enforcement officers during the first half of the year, both with eight deaths. Illinois and Texas both ranked second with six fatalities apiece, followed by Virginia with five deaths and Florida with four law enforcement fatalities. Of the 75 officers killed in 2006, 30 were shot, 22 died in automobile accidents, 11 officers succumbe to job-related illnesses, five were struck by automobiles while outside of their own vehicles, four officers died in motorcycle accidents, two were killed in helicopter accidents, and one officer was killed in a bomb blast. Over the past 10 years (1996-2005), a total of 1,635 law enforcement officers across the nation were killed in the line of duty.

According to NLEOMF Chairman Craig W. Floyd, one of the most troubling trends is the growing number of officers killed in automobile crashes. "The number of officers killed in automobile crashes has increased by 40 percent over the last three decades and by 22 percent over the past year," Mr. Floyd stated. "For the last eight years, the number of officers killed in traffic-related incidents has surpassed the number of officers killed in shootings. It appears that this trend is continuing in 2006." He added that increased driver training for officers, improved safety systems in law enforcement vehicles and citizens who are more attentive to officers stopped on the side of the road will help to reduce these fatality figures.

"The increase of law enforcement deaths in 2006 means that COPS will be reaching out to 75 more families who are going through the worst pain and heartache they have ever known," cited Jean Hill, National President of Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS). "Concerns of Police Survivors understands the pain that families feel when losing their officer. The safety of all our officers is in the hands of every American and we all need to do whatever it takes to keep law enforcement families from becoming members of COPS."

Visit the NLEOMF website for this and other Facts & Figures.: <http://www.nleomf.com/TheMemorial/facts.htm>

A HURRICANE OF COMPASSION!

Time and time again I heard the phrase, “If it weren’t for the Church….” In March I had the incredible opportunity of joining the thousands who provided Hurricane Relief throughout the Gulf States. Serving as community chaplain with Samaritan’s Purse organization was an experience I will never forget. I, like many others, was overwhelmed by the impact of Hurricane Katrina. The devastation was incredible. The poor in those communities seemed to be impacted the most. Hurricane Katrina took lives, destroyed property and disrupted the lives of thousands of people in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Mile after mile I drove along the Gulf shore and witnessed homes and businesses leveled to the ground because of the Hurricane’s impact. No one could imagine how destructive a storm could be.

As I spent time with local Police Departments, city leaders and residents I heard over and over again the impact that the Church has made. There have been hundreds of Churches and Church groups that have participated in the clean up and human services. I was impressed with the commitment of many who “stuck it out” through enormous circumstances. Many who stayed in their homes during the storm shared dramatic stories of survival. Many shared inspiring stories of everyday heroes who took incredible risks and displayed outstanding courage to help those in need. One resident spoke of how local first responders went above and beyond the call of duty to rescue a victim. There were many who spoke of powerful examples of a local community coming together to provide basic services until national help arrived.

One day I held a meeting with the Deputy Chief of a Police Department. His comment surprised me. He described that after the storm their basic services were overwhelmed. They soon realized that they had to come together and meet the basic needs of people. He talked about creating a “make shift” cafeteria to feed the people. “But soon our resources ran out,” he commented. “But, at that moment, help arrived.” He described the support that arrived first was a church group from Georgia. They were loaded with water, food and cooking supplies. “If it weren’t for the church, we could not have hung on!” He added. The church represented a hurricane of a different kind; a hurricane of compassion! Hundreds of church-based groups and thousands of people have emerged to meet needs.

I left Mississippi inspired. I gained a new motivation for working to unite churches together to meet needs. The witness of Christ’s compassion and Church cooperation was revealed to me in a whole new way! What a powerful example the body of Christ at work in a community! We can do this here in DuPage County. Churches can work together to serve the needs of the poor. LOVE Christian Clearinghouse is the networking resource for reaching needy families locally. We can have our own Hurricane of compassion!

Bad has it's good news!

TODAY we contemplate the the wonderful gift we have of sins forgiven. What is so important about Good Friday, you ask? What's that big deal? It is because of Jesus that we can find hope of eternal life with Him.

My brother offers a few reminders of God's grace extended to us:

1. CRUCIFIED Together With Christ (Galatians 2:20)
2. BURIED Together With Christ (Romans 6:4)
3. RAISED Together With Christ (Colossians 3:1)
4. SUFFERERS Together With Christ (Romans 8:17)
5. GLORIFIED Together With Christ (Romans 8:17)
6. CAUGHT UP Together With Christ (I Thessalonians 4:17)
7. ENTHRONED Together With Christ (Revelations 3:21)

"We acknowledge the Death of Jesus on our behalf. It was on the cross where Jesus took the entire weight of sin, though sinless, He took our sin upon Himself. Three days later He AROSE victor over the grave and death. Because He lives we celebrate these Seven Together's. Happy Easter!" - Brother Bob Carder

The sacrifice Jesus gave for the redemption of my lostness is an incredible gift! Thank God for what He did. This day was certainly not a good day for our Lord! May I never forget to be grateful.

As I look at those around me in distress and unaware of the tremendous gift of His shed blood, death and resurrection, may I re-affirm my commitment to care for others rather than to be cared for. May I re-affirm my need to serve other than be served by other. May I re-affirm the message of hope in Christ!

The good news is that even though the day may be filled with distress and frustration - a bad day, we can celebrate the good news. Even bad has it's good news of Hope eternal in Jesus Christ!

Life's Uncertainties and Love's Unshakable Foundation!

Few things are certain in this life. The Psalmist knew of the sure foundation when storm clouds draw close. In the 16th book of Psalm we find that although life has uncertainties, love is a certain foundation.

Living can be a scary business. It takes courage to cope and to navigate through life.
Psalm 16 is one of six psalms which have headings describing them as “miktams.” (See Psalms 56 – 60.) No one knows for sure what the word “miktam” means, but each of these psalms (especially 56 - 60) was written by David in times of extreme danger. Knowing this, we can make Psalm 16 our “miktam”– a psalm to live by when life gets scary.

When Life Gets Scary Be Sure To Turn To These Unshakable Truths:

* God is my Protector. (v. 1)

* God is my Provider. (vv. 2 - 6)

* God is my Counselor. (v. 7)

* God is my Hope. (vv. 8 - 11)

“I have set the LORD always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
Psalm 16:8.

Can you claim Psalm 16 as your own? If so, then you can face life with courage regardless of how scary it gets.

Remember that God is love and perfect love cast out fear!

Final Word on the Rapid Response Team Efforts

I write this brief update blog as I wait for my flight out of Atlanta.

We passed the baton onto three incoming chaplains out of North Carolina. It is exciting to know that our efforts will be furthered as we head home. We built on the efforts of those before us, watering the seeds planted and planting new ones. What a joy to be part of such a national team!

This is Kingdom work! We build upon those before us and others come along after us. Each of us give out of our giftedness and somehow, the Lord pulls all our efforts together.

No different on the local church level. Each member of the body of Christ pitches in and together we reach people for Christ. We saw many who gave their "bits and pieces" of time and talent that has eternally changed the hearts and lives of people.
(Many of our times were shared by the work of Samaritan's Purse and the United Methodist Church disaster relief group).

As Paul told the Corinthian church about the spiritual gifts, I imagine that many were excited to discover how they fit into the Kingdom efforts. So too should we. We should be excited to give of ourselves for the cause of Christ.

My part of the work as chaplain has ended and there were many powerful opportunities. While I may have completed my efforts in the Gulf for now, by no means have I ended my ministry of helps and service to people in need. I have much to do in my neighborhood too!

Each of us have the same opportunity. Perhaps not as obvious as the need in the Gulf but, lost people live nearby each of us. Our efforts are vast before us all as we consider those neighbors around where we live!

So, I say, let the mission continue!

Pray for lost people because they matter to God!

Pray for those I have touched in Jesus' Name in the Gulf.

Pray for the continued efforts of The Rapid Response Team chaplains.

Pray that the seeds planted will also see harvest.

Thank you for your prayers and support!

Day Seven - Worship and Rest

Sunday is the day to worship God and rest. That's pretty much what I did!

We worshipped at The Morningstar Missionary Baptist Church. This is Odell and Carol's church. Today they has quite a celebration. Several guests attended the church representing people who are leading the celebration of a mortgage burning and groundbreaking ceremony for their new construction. Some of these guests were the architect and contractor and the Mayor's wife of Gulfport was present too.

We were escorted right to the front of the church when we arrived. Later in the service we were given the opportunity to introduce ourselves if we were guests. I told my story on how I met Odell and Carol at the airport when I arrived. I was impressed that this congregation could be so positive after such devastation. Their faith was so refreshing. They sang, the minister cast his vision, and the youth sang (they had 40 youth in the congregation alone). Odell was involved in burning the mortgage. He was also part of the groundbreaking ceremony. It was a great service.

It was refreshing to hear a southern gospel altar call and message. I loved being there and felt the blessing of God.

That was a wonderfully refreshing worship experience! As for the rest, well, I have to admit that sitting around and doing nothing ain't my style. So, I did my laundry and packing. I cleaned my room. And I read a bit. We did get more pictures!

I felt refreshed after a bit of laundry. Perhaps this is because I could take my time, lounge around between loads and cat nap.

The day is not quite over yet so anything could possibly yet happen. I did hear that there are some folks arriving tonight from Northern Indiana. Perhaps I might make more new friends!

Until I post again,

Live From Biloxi, MS