Why I Watch Political National Conventions.

This is a narrative of my experiences over the years. I am a glutton for punishment. I have been a fierce defender of our Democratic Republic. I do believe in the constitution. I have read many books on the history of this country, which I love and serve.

Some people have strange addictions. Mine is watching political debates. Is it because I like conflict? Not really. I do like debates that produce better outcomes! 

Over the last several years, I make every effort to watch the political campaign and see if I can make sense of the Party positions in order to have an informed decision. I base my understanding on the values that I hold near to me.

A lot of people just like to grab their political signs and flags and a rebellious manner. I would prefer to listen and learn as best I can where people are coming from. I am trying to listen more and speak less. By the way, this is a particularly difficult discipline for me.

This year in particular, I have listened to both the Republican National Convention and the Democrat National Convention. Of course, I have seen lies on both sides. You might call them perspectives, but they are subtle yet can skew from truth in many ways.

My effort today is to tell you why I would be such a glutton for political conversations.

I do not plan to tell you how I will vote in November, but I will give you a couple of bullet points for why I remain curious. I remain a skeptic in the political climate of today. 

I think that we have never been divided in my lifetime than we are at this present moment. It is also clearly obvious that the sharp lines of division have never been more clear than they are right now. It seems as though the parties shout with ever increasing intensity about a position that seems so divided.

Ultimately, I believe in the hope of Jesus Christ. We will never solve our political divide through government, interventions of all types or even programs. Even those with the best intentions will fall short because we all have sinned and have fallen short.

By the way, the fact that I use the word sin in this article means that I may be labeled as radical. I do believe that no one is perfect and no candidate will save us from ourselves.

Why would I do this to myself?

1. I want to be known as someone who has clarity in my decision-making.

I prefer to remain independently objective and base my decisions based on facts, not fiction. I am a dreamer, but also a realist! I have a need to know how the party aligns with my values! 

Making decisions means being informed. Making decisions that better others is why I am listening and reading about policies and positions that are available to inform me. 

2. I want to be somebody who is known for listening more than talking.

Although it takes a bit of discipline for me, I am trying to learn to listen more than speak. It’s hard but necessary. I am learning to ask good questions. 

I don’t like everything about every party, but hopefully I am learning and growing as a human being. Hopefully my beliefs in the Bible and my faith are helping me to become a better leader. I have to discover what aligns with my values and beliefs. 

3. I want to be somebody who is not stubborn but remains open minded.

I do think that I double down on positions that I believe to be at the core of my values. However, I am trying to remain open minded enough to find a common place for me to learn. I know that I could be stubborn, but hopefully I could be someone that is learning at the same time. 

I offer respect to everyone and make every effort to find common ground to have a civil discussion. I believe that we can have a good decision if we support liberty. 

4. I want to be somebody who operates out of principles and a set of values more than simply emotional. 

I do think that people who are different than one another can find common value even if we do not agree. yet, all of us has a desire to resolve conflict when possible. Values that we hold may be what is the key to solving real problems in neighborhoods and communities where we live. 

Local politics are far more fun for me because you get to know the various people that are involved in the decisions that affect you. 

National politics does not do this anymore for any one of us. Somehow, we think that we have elected representatives who speak on our behalf, unfortunately, too often people enter into politics as a career and spend their entire career defending their right to stay on the government payroll. 

I am grateful that we live in a country that has a Constitution that is worth defending. The values it promotes began with God not man! 

I am grateful to live in a country that affords us the opportunity of an opinion in the chance to be a productive citizen. I am thankful that we have rights that are given to us, not by government or political persuasion, but by God! 

We know that if the government can give you something, than they can also take it away! These right of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is foundational. 

However, I also believe, this country has a foundation in which every other country in the world remains envious.

No matter our difference, we can have a civil discussion. We can find a better way! We can solve the issues of the day. 

Let’s chat! 

Legacy is…

Today I want to focus on legacy. It is a term that depicts generational impact we can have on others. A parent to a child is one way; through a family legacy. A mentor and mentee; personal interactions and as an apprentice. There are many type of relationships that can influence someone in a positive way. 

I love the saying, “You impress people from a distance but you impact them close.” We are encouraged to make a difference in someone! 

Legacy is important! We all have it! Some good and for others bad. A legacy is what someone gives. It may be generational (as in a blessing or a curse). 

The word legacy depicts a heritage given. We think of it as always good but in actuality it can be negative. 

Today, we need to look at what is positive. A good heritage!  The Bible says that a good name is better than gold. (Proverbs 22:1) With a good heritage we can make a positive impact in the lives of people we may never meet.

By definition, legacy refers to a lasting impact and the way they will be remembered for generations to come. 

Legacy can be career accomplishments, financial assets, or a loved one's incredible character. 

How you define legacy will determine how you spend your life. When people give of themselves in the lives of others, that is legacy. When we help another we are developing legacy. 

Leave a legacy! Do something that will outlast your lifetime! 

Abraham planted a tamarisk tree. In Genesis 21:33 we read that next to the altar, Abraham planted a tree of which he would never enjoy the shade of. In the dessert he planted a tree that takes 400 years to fully grow and cast a shadow for weary travelers.

Lead From Behind and Other Notions!

Leadership is so important! Like a good parent, lead by developing your team. 

I have heard that we should lead from behind. In fact, there is a book with this title: Leaders Eat Last. Lead with humility is not just an idea. Let me share a few ideas.

Honest humility is a great beginning.

Awesome authenticity is a great way to show up.

Timely arrivals and stand up for your team.

These ideas will shape your potential to lead. Leadership is too often defined as someone who is tallest and best looking. This is a shallow and hollow experience. If you have ever had a terrible boss then you know how not to lead. If you have a better manager than a leader, you know what I mean. If you have ever grown frustrated with your leaders/bosses, you will understand these ideas better than others.

1. Honest humility is not false humility. It is not being shy or meek. It is not our telling others that we are humble. 

It is obvious to people when someone is humble! They don’t brag about it. They don’t show off their goodness.

Leaders who are confident can lead with humility. It is a meekness that is a controlled inner confidence. They know who they are and why they exist! 

Leaders know where they are going but they don’t push others out of the way to get where they are going. Leaders do take others with them. Yet, good leaders lead humbly. They choose humility. If they promote success, they tell what others are doing. 

Honesty is key to their effectiveness. They prepare well. Execute well. Gather what they need. Encourage and empower people. They come to humility naturally. 

Look at 1 & 2 Peter to know more about humility! Peter learned through major changes he experienced in life and through God’s amazing grace he learned humility. 

2. Awesome authenticity is a great way to show up. 

No one likes being in communication with robots. Scripted people are hard to connect with. Everyone resonates with authentic people. They like human conversations! 

When we show up and be ourselves, we gain ground. We grow in relational well-being. 

When people act like human beings, we grow stronger in meaningful relationships. Even more, when leaders share their vulnerabilities we are more likely to follow. Why? We can relate to them. We are human beings. It is not the calendar that leads meaningful relationships. Tasks don’t make us warm and fuzzy. Leaders that demand from us without authenticity will not lead long. 

Take a look at the way Jesus led others. See Matthew 25. Jesus told us to serve people well. 

We can lead from the back of the room when we are authentic. Those upfront are not necessarily leaders. They have titles but they may not connect to the heart of those in the room.

3. Timely arrivals and stand up for your team.

Leaders who use others are not leading. They are thieves. They rob your team of the best ideas and make them their own. 

Leaders show up first! They stand ready to drive the goals. They show their support and do their part. 

Also, leaders stand up for their team. They go to the mat for their team. They own the outcomes and don’t shift blame! Leaders don’t take credit; they choose humility. 

Their success is not for selfish glory. They share the benefits of success. See Philippians 2:5-11.

These three ideas will reshape your humility while leading yourself and others. 

Read more:

Of the different styles of leadership, a leader who leads from behind is behaving as a servant leader. Servant leaders see to the needs of the team, which helps create the conditions that allows individuals to shine, making the best use of themselves and available resources. - Sophia Johnson.

What Is Your TESTimony?

We live in an age of instant feedback. We can make comments about anything online. Look at any social media page of any business and you will see it. Some comments can make or break a business. In fact, comments about the quality of food or service can go viral. Look at how many responded to the negative comments that were leveled against organizations that promoted DEI policies in their advertisement. John Deere and Tractor Supply reversed their Corporation statements when people "spoke up."

The church has similar ramifications. Call it consequential or casual, those that make comments about a particular ministry or church experience can cause significant changes. If someone reports that they had a negative experience or is concerned about the church's teaching can diminish their impact in the community. Also, when Christianity is labeled negatively, the impact, while less subtle, can keep people away from Church attendance. 

We see this in real time. When there is a particular message that deems every church as hateful (toward a certain people group) then the consequences are damaging. Or if a church steps up to help after a significant national crisis or disaster, the church has many fans!

What about your personal witnessing brand?  I call this a brand because your reputation does represent more than just you but also your community, family, neighbors, and even coworkers or school classmates. Your testimony can make a difference. 

Say, for example, you go out to eat (especially on a Sunday) and you show that you are a Christian but you show disrespect for the waitress or complain about your service. You create an impression. Your reputation is not only damaged but also the Church as a whole. Why? Your testimony or "Christian Brand" is impacted too. Or, what if you represent yourself as a Christian on Sunday but on Monday you act like the world?  It damages your ability to speak about Christ. 

A testimony means witness. It is a witness of what God is doing in your life. It needs to be authentic and genuine. It needs to reflect Christ as being filled with honesty and grace. It needs to show what you are promoting by how you act (when no one is watching). 

I am writing this short blog today to also point to other articles and messages I have written on evangelism. Check these articles out. 

I am also wanting to talk about the word that is a part of the word TESTimony. It is the word TEST. 

We all have been through experiences that inform our testimony. Some experiences are mere tests. We are tested as Christians. We all have been through hard times. We all have seen our share of tough things. 

What if your journey was such that you can relate to the journey of others? What if your hardship was such that you can speak into the hardship of others? 

Our struggles mean that we are alive!  Our struggles mean that our journey is not yet complete. 

While we may be Christian yet, our experiences can inform and strengthen our walk with God, in Christ. 

What TEST are you going through right now?  What is your struggle?  What have you found victory in? How can you share your journey of faith?

God may have put that test on you, as a believer so that you can share how God walked with you and strengthen you on the way. 

Join in this discussion by sharing what you have experienced and how God used it for His Glory. Send me your TESTimony to rickecarder@outlook.com

I am certain that there is someone who is about to give up. I am certain that there is someone wondering if God even cares. I am certain that there is someone who is losing hope. 

It is our opportunity to share our story and help others who are yet to discover the walk with Jesus that you are having. 

Why Is Not Just A Question!

I hear this all the time. People complain and cry out, “Why?”

You have done this. Me too. We are a people who love to complain. No matter the age, we find reasons to complain. 

It is part of our nature. Complaining is found in the Bible many times. See Lamentations. It is just one place where you find this attitude. We lament! We complain!

So, what do we do with this? It is human nature to be afraid, troubled, and complain. We hate to read the book of Lamentations but we enjoy living in lamentation.

 

We love to complain about the weather. It is something that we cannot control yet, we find ways to complain about it! We all go through hard times. We all find it hard to say nice things. We know how to justify our complaints.

I have a theory on this subject. It is simple. If we can’t say anything good, don’t say anything. However, we find excuses for our complaints. 

Politics or preferences, we love to complain. We all seem to ask questions of things we don’t understand. Moses’ people complained for over 40 years! As a nation, they were given everything that they needed. Yet, they wanted something else. They were, like many of us, fickle! We too often know what we want but we complain the same as them.

So, what do we do with the many questions of why?

Why is this happening to me?

Why do I have to (fill in the blank)? 

We are never satisfied. We never cease from our striving. But, what if we simply become content? Instead of why, we can ask, why not?

Why not? Yes, we need to ask why not? We should understand that if our attitude is positive, we can have a “can-do” attitude. 

If you are asking why, how much better is it to say why not!

Jesus knows - cares - heals. He has been here right where you are? He did not complain? We can’t say that Jesus never asked why?  He showed us that it is okay to ask why. It is not the end of the world.

God wants to hear from you! Let your complaint lead you to God! Let your hardship force you to come to Christ for help! 

So, why not just ask God and take your complaint to Him instead of everyone else. He, in fact wants to let God help! 

By the way, the cure for complaining is gratitude. No matter how dark it is, find something to thank God for. Thankfulness is the cure for those negative experiences and complaints. 

Catch The Spirit of Generosity!

Remember when you received a free gift?  Not just that gift you got when you signed up for your bank account or other subscription-based club. What did you feel when someone just surprised you with that one special gift that you didn't earn or deserve?

Generosity is becoming a popular theme!  It is a major theme today in churches and other community organizations. We are encouraged to give not out of obligation but out of good will. It is a good feeling to give when no one tells you that you have to. When it is spontaneous it is meaningful. Surprises are fun! It is like a rainbow that demonstrates grace and hope. A Biblical sign from God that reinforces the covenant God gave all people. He blessed us so we can bless others. 

I am writing this entry from both a personal experience as well as a reminder for all of us to act with grace and with generosity. It is both practical and Biblical. It included the highly relational as well as touching our very soul. It brings joy and energy in all we do and say. It is like an energy drink that is infused with vitamin enriching qualities that are also enriching to the soul. It is like a spiritual revival to the soul.

Being generous does something to our physical body as well. In the very act of giving releases something in our brain that like a drug. Studies have shown this to me true. Read this article. 

We are commanded to be people who give more than we take. It is not only a Biblical command to give but also a societal norm. It is called reciprocity; an act that causes others to give as well. We are made to be givers. Check this out! These Truths are timeless! 

Recently someone shares a gift with me. It was a spontaneous act! It showed me something that God needed me to know. It also caused me to have a spirit of giving. It is contagious - like a germ that generates an ongoing impact. It spreads like a germ that can be fatally - compassionate. 

Generous people are thankful people. They find ways to praise God for what He has provided. They see the best in people. They see potential in people and desire to invest in their lives. They choose to enrich people. 

I have been reading lately the book, “I Like Giving” by Brad Formsma. It’s a book filled with stories and practical ideas for how to be generous. In the book, the author says the following:

Living generously is about giving your life to other people so that everything you do – whether it is your work, your charitable giving, or your contribution to your neighborhood – becomes both a gift to others and rewarding yourself.

It is an attitude that always hopes and chooses to believe in people that make them generous. They realize that it is not about themselves! It is about others. 

The benefit to one’s self is the feeling that you get when you help another. With no expectations for a return on investment or treating it as a loan with expectations that someone will return with payment. Generous people see their acts of kindness as simply a gift! 

 

Gardening Reminders!

I’m taking on a few new hobbies these last few years. One of them is gardening. I have a lot to learn, but today I wanted to give focus to some of the lessons that I have learned and some of the ways that I am improving on this hobby.

A few years prior, I have primarily tried to grow tomatoes because I love to make salsa. Last year I made over 50 jars that I stored away. In fact, I’ve been averaging around 50 jars annually. I would not necessarily call that success. Last year my tomatoes did terrible so I had to cut a deal with the local neighbor/farmer, who came through on my behalf. Roma tomatoes are the best! My particular farmer, Kirkpatrick grows fresh Red Gold brand quality. 

This year not only did I cultivate, but I added fertilizer which really helped in the process. Though I am early this season to report on my progress, I’m amazed at how quickly my garden is producing. I already have tomatoes along with other things.

Thanks to my neighbors. I am continuing to learn, but here are a few lessons that seems simple, yet, very helpful.

The Bible talks about the parable of the sower. When Jesus gave this parable, I don’t think he was necessarily talking about the seed exclusively. He wanted us to know that we should be people who “spread the gospel“ but also realize the types of soil that there are. Being faithful is one thing but the need for the right soil is quite another. See Matthew 13.

1. The soil needs cultivated and nurtured. 

The Earth needs stewarded. God has given us the responsibility to care for his creation. Part of that means stewarding.. I know that my plants appreciate it when I have provided the right kind of cultivation and nutrition.

I know it sounds common to think about, but often we don’t prepare well. Have a friend who is more of a farmer than I will ever be who has been trying to teach me how to best provide for the right kind of soil. He’s been teaching me, how I should weed and feed my plants but also my soil. 

Jesus certainly knew what he was talking about when he said that there is some seed that falls on rocky soil. He also indicated that some may fall along weeds and thorns. Caring for the soil may seem peculiar. We just assume that if we plant it, it will grow. When I plant in my raised beds, I cultivate a rich soil filled with nutrients. However, leaves much to be desired. It is filled with Clay among other things that choke out, whatever I plan. 

I have been cultivating my ground for quite a few years. I’ve had to pull out rocks and thistles. I’ve had to work hard to weed out those things that choke my plants.even when my plants begin to grow, I have to continually work to remove the weeds before they take deep route that would ultimately choke out my plants.

2. The plant’s health is paramount.

Once my plants have begun to grow, I’ve noticed that there are subtle indicators of their health. Recently, my tomato plants showed signs of stress. their leaves had curled up at the end which indicates a problem. Of course, I went to the Internet and YouTube to figure out what it could be. Some said that it was too much water while other said it was not enough water, and yet other sites said that it was too much fertilizing. Whatever the case, I had to carefully, consider what steps would improve the health of my plants. 

In the story of the sower, we find here too examples of the right type of soil that would yield an abundance of fruit. Especially those seeds that take route, but are not healthy. Some seeds that fall along the rocky soil or among thorns, present stress, and that their roots cannot go deep enough to find the nutrients needed. Read more about the meaning of the parable. 

My other neighbor, Dale grew most of my plants in his greenHe gave them a great start. They survived being transplanted into my soil, but nonetheless, they were healthy when they were given to me.

In my garden, I am discovered that I need to continually work the soil to produce the right kind of fruit for an abundant harvest. For me, just having enough tomatoes for salsa mix is important.

Every kind of seed produces a plant that may be different than another. There needs are not the same. In my herb garden, I treat the soil differently and in my larger plants. I’m more careful about how I care for them.

3. Pruning is necessary. 

The third lessons that I have learned has to do with properly cutting off a part of the plant that does not produce. In someways it’s obvious that a stem looks unhealthy. Consequently, I would want to cut that part off so that the rest of the plant can thrive. Every plant is different. 

There are times when my plants have gotten diseased, and if I’m properly caring for the plant, I will want to cut off anything that could destroy the remaining fruit. Sometimes we can ignore the problem too long, which would result in our plants suffering

In Jesus parable, we find that he encourages the Sower to care for and grow fruit. The soil that does take route needs to be properly cared for. We might call this discipleship which means mentoring others for health.

Though my lessons are both physical and spiritual, it’s important that I take heed to listen to the experts and to be diligent in my their care and welfare. I’m not only my soil, but also my plans for an abundant harvest.

There are some plants that do not like direct sunlight, and there are other plants that do not like the cold. I have to know which season I should plant and where those plants will thrive. Whether in the shade or in the sun, they are careful instructions for each type of seed. we neither want to overwater them nor ignore them because each can be a problem. 

Although I’m not an expert, I am learning bit by bit how to improve upon my results. I am learning from my past mistakes and from experts to avoid other mistakes.

Jesus is the master gardener. He understands me more than anyone else, even myself. He knows what nutrients are needed for me to produce fruit. He knows what kind of soil I have been planted in and what needs to happen in order for my seed. For his glory.

Memorials :: Reminders and Honoring Legacy

I am writing this entry on Memorial Day weekend. It is a special time to remember and honor those who sacrificed for freedom. We reflect on the freedoms we have because of the legacy of those who lived before us. 

We set off fireworks as symbols of battles won and lost. Many died and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy. We honor those that served and sacrificed for our freedom. They took responsibility that made better for others. We remember those that gave.

In the Bible, we find that a memorial was established as a reminder of the sacrifice and gift of those who lived prior to our arrival. 

Joshua 4:19-22 :: 
19 The people came up out of the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and they encamped at Gilgal on the east border of Jericho. 20 And those twelve stones, which they took out of the Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 And he said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’22 then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ 

The leader of the people, Joshua made sure to set up a reminder for the people. It was something that they could remember that pointed to the past. They were to remember what God did for them. Interestingly, he made sure to include those that were warriors (read prior verses).

Today, our reminder is to reflect on what God has done in our past. This is an indication of what He will do in the future.

Memorials are important because of what others have done that benefit our lives today. Veterans are support to be honored. They served to protect others. 

Take time to say thank you! Thank you, God! Thank you! Thank a veteran. Freedom isn’t free! 

We need to thank God for His Son, Jesus who sacrificed his life through suffering and death so that we can inherit hope of Salvation and spiritual victories in the battles of life. Take time to thank God for His Word that shows us the way of salvation. We can have a thankful heart that rejoices because of the work of the Holy Spirit that guides and convicts us, keeping us on the right path. 

This Memorial weekend, let us consider what our responsibilities are to leave a legacy for others. We are free to love, serve, and give because someone paid in full the debt we could not pay! 

What Rock Is In My Way?

Rocks are building materials. They are used to build a solid foundation. They are good as firm footers in the building structure. They are used as the means of support. Rocks are abundant and even through ancient times have been the source of all things that stand the test of time. 

Psalms 18:2 tells us, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.”

They can also be in the way. The wrong use of rocks can destroy. They are useful in the right conditions favored by God. The image here shows how even the stone will cry out in praise to God! They are part of the orchestra of anthems and praise songs!  

Jesus is a firm foundation, a cornerstone that builders can use. Yet, they are stones that, if rejected, can become a stone that causes others to stumble. The foundation upon which the gospel is laid will stand the test of time. There are those that may stumble and those that will build upon its foundation. 

The rock of salvation is what the writer is referencing in his analogy. It is a fortress, proving shelter and protection. The rock is a shield and a place of safety. (For those that seek to rest with in its walls.)

This week has been our annual retreat for the Northern chapter of youth for Christ. We’ve taken time to intentionally step away from our busy agendas and activities and focus on team development the interpersonal, our team, and ourselves. It’s been an incredible time that I am even now taking note of.

In a beautiful retreat setting where we are spending time isolating from others as well as doing group games and activities. Is it time to learn how to do life and spiritually develop better with ourselves and within our team. Speakers have focused on sabbath rest as well as our mission as an organization.

We have celebrated, for God’s glory, the things that have been accomplished. We’ve been challenged on things yet to be done.

I have written down goals in my personal journal as well as takeaways from these brief moments of time. John 15 helped us to understand our interdependence and our need to be connected to the vine of our virtues Jesus Christ. We have spent time reading through the story of Moses and learning the importance of finding hope and help. I have made notes to say that God is enough and asking the question of whether I am desperate enough for God to work?

We have shared incredible times of fellowship and have grown in our knowledge and awareness of one another; in our needs and our story. I have purposefully taken time to listen and learn.

Casting a vision for any organization is never easy. Everyone that lives at the ground level, consider that through the lens of each of our busy activities and schedule. Developing an understandPurpose is important for any organization. We may ask ourselves questions related to our personal needs, but I enjoyed what our leader encouraged us to think about as he laid out three essential questions during our vision casting time together.

These three questions are:

Where have we been? 

Where are we now? 

Where are we going?

For some, it feels like we have entered into the conversation late and have missed a few things along the way. For others, they have a long history and track record that builds perspective. For me, I’m going into my third year and I believe I am still attempting to draw context for each guiding principal and action.

Recently, I heard a devotional that has helped shape my capacity for learning. The devotional centered on the importance of understanding God‘s plan and purpose. The leader of that devotional shared that God has purpose, but that I have an assignment. It may be too simple but, for me, I strive to understand my role and responsibilities within the context of our mission as an organization. 

I often pray, “Lord, show me just enough success so that I will understand your favor, but not too much that I will take away from your glory.”

God chooses to use each of us yet it is only through his power and grace that anything could be accomplished for his glory.

So my question is, what rock is in my way? Perhaps, I need to understand that the rock of our Lord Jesus Christ is not a stumbling stone, but that it is a steppingstone for which I can build upon and develop. 

As I and others got away for a personal retreat, I have to ask myself the question; am I in the way? I got away in order to get out of the way of what God is doing, and yet, join him By taking my assignment in His Kingdom work

The Cross of Christ

Traveling home from Saint Louis I came upon a crossroads of Effingham, Illinois. There stood a large cross. This cross was placed by donors in hopes that it would remind people of the importance of the Cross of Christ. It is a representation of the hope we have through the suffering of Christ and His death. It also stands to represent the resurrection of Christ. Christ is no longer on the cross! It stands as a crossroad for all of us!

The crossroad of life is that place where a decision is made on every journey. It is the space where we either go on our journey deliberately choosing which way to go. 

These crossroads may be moral choices. They may be career related. They may be daily challenges that we can have to choose the correct attitude of life. 

Crossroads are where Christ meets us, daily. With Christ helping us through the work of the Holy Spirit, the Truth of His Word, and the patterns of life the last honors God as creator. We have opportunities that await us when we arrive at these crossroads.

The Cross is where, for many we have found grace and the blessings of a relationship with Christ. The cross is where many are yet to find this hope. The cross is how we understand the work that Christ wants to do in us and through us. 

If you reading this and wonder how to have a personal relationship with Christ, please message me. 

While in Saint Louis, I attended a Presbyterian Church. The pastor and leader of the conference I attended shared a profound message. His statement (shown here) reads: “Too many people look to their weaknesses rather than their strength… God gives us hope we can count on!” - William  (Bill) McConkey. We can grow as a disciple only if we depend on Him. Yet, God has given us gifts and through the Spirit we also discover the Fruit of the Spirit. These are the strengths we inherit for God’s purpose. 

At the conference I attended a devotional was shared that reminded me that God has a purpose but we have an assignment! I get my assignment by knowing Christ!

If you have already found the grace the cross represents, celebrate and keep going as a disciple of Christ. The Bible is the only authority we have as we proclaim our testimony and life-change. 

Colossians 3:10 simply tells us to “put on the new nature…” This is the goal of every crossroad of life. The nature of God, through what Christ did in the cross, is meant to change us from within. 

Every crossroad should bear the reminder of the Cross. This should put us in the right path of The Way of salvation and the furtherance of grace! 

The Sheep Hear My Voice.

This morning, my friend, John Wood, missionary and Bible translator for Wycliffe Associates, shared a wonderful illustration. He compared a relationship he has with his pet dog. 

It’s an impressive analogy that he drew upon. He was finishing up his veterinary appointment with his dog at a local veterinarian hospital in which somebody commented about his relationship being likened to a parent and a child. He quickly drew exception, and said, “No, more accurately, it is the relationship between God and His creation.” He reminded us that in Genesis the responsibility that we have to God’s creation is to have dominion and care over it. It’s a delegated responsibility.

Further, he went on to explain that dogs are pack animals and it’s important that the animals know who the alpha is in the relationship. Animals respond through obedience, but also they develop trust much like humans do with God. To clarify, John shared that we although we do not understand fully our relationship with God, because He is infinite, but in some small way in our finite to finite relationship with our pet we can gain some understanding. 

John’s devotional gave way for me to reflect upon the scripture of the Good Shepherd. A while back, I preached several sermons related to the relationship that is talked about in the story of the Good Shepherd.

John 10:11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

Our son, Jon is a Deputy and K-9  handler for a county Sheriff Department. In recent years, we’ve had many discussions about his relationship to his canine partner.

One of those conversations that we shared related to how his K-9 is specifically trained to respond to the commands of his handler. This relationship is such a tight bond. No other person can give orders to the dog. My son said to me something that is very profound. He said, “My dog knows my voice and only responds to commands at the hearing of my voice.” He further illustrated and he said that “everything that I have on my body, including my weapon and my taser can be used against me. If a suspect were to take my dog from me however, my k-9 cannot be taken from me and used against me.”

This relationship is similar with the good Shepherd. Jesus indicated that the sheep know His voice. Sheep like dogs are pack animals. 

Our relationship with our heavenly father is easily illustrated through both what my friend John Wood shared in his devotional, the experience that my son has with his trained K-9 and The sheep and the God Shepherd.

This is the lesson for us today. We should have a relationship with our God who is the Alpha and Omega. Our relationship should be such that we know the voice of the good Shepherd. It is further convicting in that the Good Shepherd lays down his life for His sheep. Of course, we know that Jesus will be the gate that will protect the sheep who are within the shelter of the fence. It’s important to note the role of the Shepherd as provider and protector.

One thing further that we can drop on in this analogy is that God is our protector from predators. The one defense that sheep have is that they can cluster together so that the wolves will see them as one large unit, but if you were to ever separate one from the group, they become vulnerable. 

Many times we feel that we do not need to be with others, but it is clear that we must remain in the fold, that is the fellowship of others, in order to find protection within the group

A Total Eclipse of the Heart

I know that this is a hit title of a song from the 80’s by Air Supply, Bonnie Tyler yet, I have chosen this title for this blog entry. In just a few day millions will witness a total eclipse. April 8 is one of the most anticipated dates in the 2024 calendar. 

In recent years, we have all seen highly promoted astronomical events. Along with these event has come with many prophetic interpretations. A fascination with the track of cosmos and biblical named cities will cross in the United States has raised doomsday warnings. 

This article is not about any of those prophecies.  It is about the prophecies that revealed the Christ thousands of years before the death of Christ. My article centers on Psalm 22 as well as a unique translation found in the New American translation of Luke 23:44-45. This is an account of the Crucifixion of Christ.  

One translation reads, "It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon because of an eclipse of the sun."

The prophecy of Psalm 22 sheds a great deal more detail over 1,000 years before the Romans invented the cruelest form of execution, death on a cross. In just the first 22 versus of this passage of scripture we can learn of 17 prophecies being fulfilled. King David wrote this Psalm of the Suffering Savior while also writing of his on grief and suffering yet, this description goes beyond just David’s own experiences. It points to the death of Christ on the cross. 

In a recent sermon I shared at a community Pre-Easter Week I shared the details and the purpose of the Suffering Savior. Jesus suffered and God turned His back away from His Son (the Bible reads forsaken) so that we will not be rejected or forsaken but found in righteousness through His death on a cross. Our suffering is not in vain and our salvation is not for our vanity alone. God can redeem our suffering and give us a testimony of grace through forgiveness. Our suffering is not in vain. Neither is our salvation in vanity. It is not that we become better than others but that we are able to tell if God’s great love and others can experience this grace extended to all that believe. 

Although the sun was blocked but not darkened by an eclipse lasting more than 3 minutes, as darkness over the three hours that hung over the cross, yet we know that Jesus, we took on the sins of the world, experienced those hours of darkness while suffering the agony of the cross. He took on our sin so that he would be the perfect sacrifice that threw him alone we find redemption and forgiveness of our sins. Romans 6:8 reads that “…God showed His love for us in that while we were still sinners He died for us.” (ESV) We also read with greatest clarity Romans 3:23, “…all have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God.” (USCCB-Conference of Catholic Bishops)

There is hope for all who feel forsaken and need forgiven for the sin we are born in to and experience in our transgressions. 

Trust Be Like…

A bank is likened to trust. Though there are deposits and withdrawals that happened there, we have to believe that God is the holder of these resources. We hold loosely to that which is not ours because, as a believer in Jesus Christ, we believe that God owns everything. 

Today I have a new appreciation for time. Why? Well, we are given an extra 24 hours today, this being leap day. It is a sacred trust that has been given to all of us. Even though it is adjusting the calendar it is nevertheless an opportunity for us to never waste what has been given to us.

I hope that everyone can take advantage of this day, and not make too many withdrawals, but provide deposit into the lives of others more than ourselves.

We could always Google the history of this particular day and find interesting and fascinating nuggets of truth yet, I wanted to share how encouraging it is for me to be part of a team that is strengthening & trust in one another.

Not to sound like an old man, but I am trying to grow and develop even though I’m as old as the Super Bowl, but as young as the Ford Mustang. Each generation defines the strategy for building trust differently. My generation is rather old-school. We believe that trust is earned not given. But this generation today has flipped that idea on his head. While my generation peers skeptically into relationships, young people seem more open and vulnerable. Perhaps naïvely believing that trust is automatic, you have to respect the notion nonetheless. Life passes quickly so plant a tree of which you will not enjoy the shade of.

Trust is so essential for all of us. Communication is a tool that I think will further help us. I believe that trust is given, and not based on merit or earned.

Though tested at times we can believe that someone has our best interest in mind at whatever they are doing.

Stephen M. R. Covey, the son of the famous thinker wrote the book, The Speed of Trust. I read it often as I am reminded of the importance of trust. 

Take this quote as an example:

“In a high-trust relationship, you can say the wrong thing, and people will still get your meaning. In a low-trust relationship, you can be very measured, even precise, and they'll still misinterpret you. The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is today.”

See what I mean? Even Stephen Covey, the father, made sure we understood that true leadership is based on the ability to inspire others to do what they don’t have to do. 

Trust is a key component of every relationship! 

So, God has trusted us to give us this additional day, so make the best use of it! In fact, the day, after mankind was created, God gave a day of rest. Perhaps it could be said that even before we do anything that proves ourselves, God blesses us with a day off.

So extend trust as you can, and especially knowing that God has given us this day. Make the most of it because this particular day will not show up again for another four years.

I love the devotional that my friend Pastor Gene Rohrer shared recently through email.

"Leap day a gift of 24 hours that only comes every four years. Picture a child standing anxiously at the edge of a swimming pool, trying to muster the courage to jump into his father's arms. That child is you.

What leap of faith will you take to show that you trust God? What is holding you back?" (Missy Buchanan)

"You of little faith, why did you doubt?" --Matthew 14:31

- Pastor Gene E. Rohrer

What are three things that you can do today that can provide for somebody else’s tomorrow?