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

Sunday Morning Summary And Reminder!

Routine is how we mark our time. This week has been marked not by routine or time, but opportunity. I have learned this week that the south doesn't stress themselves with the same things that I do. I usually start my day by getting the boys off to school and then I grab my cup of Panera Bread coffee. I spend time reading a devotional thought, a conversation with a "drinking buddy" who is sipping a cup of coffee too and writing a few thoughts, many of which are posted to my blog sites. Then I go about my day doing fairly routine activities. Meetings, phone calls, office work and planning. At the end of the day I head home to have dinner with my family. The next day it starts all over again in keeping with my routine. Sundays are no different. I start out my Sunday routine and usually can be found occupying a seat at WWC. Routine dictates my actions.

This week I have begun my day with breakfast at the camp kitchen and then someone leads in devotions and we chat over a cup of coffee. But this is where the similarities ends. I found that I just never knew what the day was going to bring. We would make plans but something better diverted our plans. Even my Sunday was impacted. I found that my routine changed and even my plans had to cooperate with another plan.

At home I account for every hour. I pack my day to make the most of every moment. Nothing entered my schedule unless I planned for it - for the most part. I live a very deliberate life now filled with routines.

Coming to the Gulf has changed this. It reminds me of how I used to live just a few years ago. I would start out with my plans and God would lead something else along my path that was better. I enjoyed the "divine interruptions" to my day. God's agenda came first!

Just this morning I planned on going to an 8:30 church service but instead I am posting a blog. There is no 8:30 service here until next Sunday. The hurricane has shifted the routines of many people. I have decided to attend a Gulfport church at 10:30 - Odell and Carol's church. They have had to shift their routine as well. Their church sanctuary has been damaged and they plan to have an outdoor service.

I love the "flow of the spirit" since coming and makes me long for the days when my routine allowed for interruptions from the Lord.

If there is anything I carry with me from this experience beyond the stories will be that God loves to surprise us with His presence and agenda. I am glad that my routine has been interrupted. This week the Lord changed our plans and placed us in situations that stretch our comfort zones. It was in those "less-than-routine" situations that God did His work through our lives.

Only God can take disaster, interruption, crisis-filled moments and shape a better outcome. I am glad for the reminder that His ways are always perfect. His ways are not my ways!

Oh, how I long to have daily divine interruptions!

Day Six!

Day six! It is the end of the day on Saturday. It has been a l-o-n-g day....

I started out at 5 am by meeting with the Gulfport Police Department. It is so interesting that I planned on coming and be in Gulfport and upon my arrival I was sent to Biloxi being told that Gulfport was no longer a site and later God opened a door for us to serve mostly in Golfport. Today I rode 6 hours with an officer Chris at Gulfport. This provided an opportunity to connect with several police officers and also talk with the dispatch personnel.

Interesting, as I spoke with the dispatch personnel I learned that two of them had been on duty during the hurricane. It was really dramatic to hear what they had to deal with. One dispatcher said that the only way she was able to get through the shift was to cry. She had to tell terrified and injured people that no emergency personnel were being sent out for rescue relief until after the storm. One man was seriously injured and had to wait 12 hours for help. That was the worst part about their job. They were not able to do anything except take calls, listen and cry.

I was able to make contact at the county jail also. We were transporting an arrested man and I was able to introduce myself to the ministry of chaplaincy to some personnel there.

In the late afternoon I was able to have free-time. Later in the evening I met up with the chaplains and project coordinator for dinner.

This is the conclusion to day six.

Day Five

Today is Friday. We started out pretty much like every other day, devotions and singing at breakfast. One of the things I have been blessed with is the testimonial and reports from the teams. Today is no exception. We heard from team members who have been working on the houses. They have had many wonderful reports. We also heard some singing from Willy Nelson tunes to Johnny Cash tunes. I have enjoyed the flashbacks to my mother and father's 8-track days. I forgot those old country gospel songs.

Our team of chaplains decided to go out as a whole team today. There were three of us and one in-training. I was the only man!

We visited the home of a Gulfport police officer, Leonard, whose home was being torn down. A group of Methodist from Georgia were the demo team. They accidentally struck a gas line just as we arrived. The whole place smelled of gas and we were beginning to get a little silly by the end of the hour with them. This would explain our next bit of trouble.

We were able to pray for that officer and also we were given the opportunity to share Christ with a Captain who "just happened" to arrive. We shared with him and prayed for him as tears filled his eyes. What a neat time! We learned that today was his wife's birthday. She is a nurse. We decided to go get a gift and take it to her at the hospital. (ladies will come up with any excuse to go shopping.). But this is where our trouble began. (More a bit later.)

On our way, however, we were given our next divine appointment. As we took a restroom break at the nearby Burger King (another thing women seem to do in groups), an elderly little woman approached us for food money. I dealt with her along with the chaplain in-training. This little woman appeared homeless and by her size she looked malnourished and very needy. She was specific about where she wanted to eat. She asked for a taco from a Taco Bell 2 blocks away. We walked her over and let her order whatever she wanted. The cashier stated that she was impressed with our generosity. To which I acknowledge that Jesus is the reason for any kindness in this world. As we stood at the counter I felt compelled to pray for her so I did, right there where we stood. The cashier join us in prayer as did the dozen in line with us. I did not notice right away the crowd until after my prayer - long as usual - and quickly apologized for my holding up the line. The people did not mind at all. We finished our ministry to this woman and shared the message of the gospel off to the side but loud enough that everyone had to hear us for sure.

Well, we finished with this great witness opportunity and headed over to the hospital with our gift in hand in search of the police officer's wife. Upon our arrival we begin to inquire about where this birthday girl and nurse could be found. We gave the name to several people who said that they didn't know her. We were persistent from desk to desk and several floors. We eventually went to human resources, who said they didn't know her. We asked that she be paged over the hospital speakers. They did it. And they did it again and again. But she did not reply. We went searching again floor to floor. I felt like I was part of an episode of "Designing Women." Finally our mystery was solved - by our Chaplain in-training. She began to ask around and found a nurse with the same first name who also happened to have a birthday today and whose husband is a Gulfport police officer. Our problem was that we had crossed last names of the two police officers we spoke with at the beginning of the day. We never laughed so hard! I think that the gas had affected our brains!!

The long and the short of it was that our mission was complete. We gave our gift and expressed our love and got out of the hospital before security escorted us to the nearest exit!

We completed our day by heading to the Gulfport PD and having a second meeting with the Deputy Chief and other staff. What an incredible blessing and openness we felt.

Late in the afternoon we finally got lunch. We were really hungry.

I finished my evening with one more round of site-seeing and picture-taking in Gulfport.

After dinner several of us did the kitchen clean up and dish duty.

I lay here refreshed with enthusiasm and thank God for the wonderful opportunities.

I will be getting us on Saturday by 5 AM to participate in a ride-a-long for the day with the Gulfport PD. Good night for now!

Supplimental Thoughts

The Word of the Lord reminds us of a very important point as we serve those in crisis relief work. Especially as we serve in the Gulf Coast area.

1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal. 3 Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. 4 Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 5 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. 7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death--even to death on a cross. (Phil. 2:1-8)

Jesus did not come to be served but to serve. This passage tells us to be ready to give of ourselves and do the work as unto the Lord, serving the interests of others.

As we have seen and many have testified to us that the church, the body of Christ were the first to be on the ground here in the Gulf Coast region. The other day and again today as I spoke with the Deputy Chief of Gulfport and Biloxi I am reminded of the wonderful witness of the church as each commented that if it were not for the church, many would have suffered hunger and incredible loss. The relief from the church came within hours not days! Praise the Lord!

Even now there are hundreds of Christian organizations and thousands working together providing relief and mostly, the Love of Christ. We are seeing the humble efforts of God's people working to give material goods, labor and hope to many. They are doing this with an attitude of a servant. This is a powerful demonstration.

Just think, one year ago many of the families devastated by the fury of Katrina are now hearing that still, soft voice of a gentle Savior. Just one year ago, many homes had not read a Bible passage or heard a word of prayer and now there are thousands of Christian people leading others to Christ and praying for their families in these very homes every day.

Having the mind of Christ and being a servant for Christ is powerful!

Thank God that His army is marching to the orders of a grace-giving and loving commander; who emptied Himself...and gave Himself unto death on the cross.

Thank the Lord for the many wonderful witness of believers from all over the world!

Day Four

Thursday started out a bit chilly but it eventually got up to 69 degrees. My evening with Odell and Carol was very relaxing. We shared a wonderful evening and we ate Salmon cooked over a grill. Odell is a great cook!

Our day took us to Gulfport for some follow up to a family whose home was re-roofed by Samaritan's Purse. (And just when I thought we were done there!) What a great opportunity to share the gospel with them and pray for Glendora. She is the daughter and caregivers to her parents and she provides help to her brother who has MS. His home was re-roofed next door just yesterday. Pray for Ranson and Viola as well as their son, Ranson Jr.

From there we visited Gulfport and went to the police department. What incredible timing! Today was the Deputy Chief's (Alfred) first official day in his new position. I took that occasion to pray for him and bless his first day and new position. I told him that God ordained this day and meant for us to lift him up and cover his position with authority under God. He has been on the department for 21 years. We also inquired about a follow up to my contact from Chicago. I was told to connect with the Fellowship of Christian Police Officers (FOCPO) chapter while here. Just as God planned it, we arrived just in time to have lunch with the FOCPO group's monthly meeting. They invited us to join them and heard about an exciting way to connect with the rebuilding efforts of first responders. I will have to share with you about a way to give toward the rebuilding efforts for first responders. They are working 12 hour shift and well over 50 hours a week. Tomorrow we will participate in the destruction of Officer Leonard's home and the rebuilding ceremony. If a team could be organized to come to Gulfport in the summer, more help is needed in this effort to rebuild the homes of first responders. There has been a group from Canada who have given leadership to the local effort and the work of FOCPO chapter. Pray for the Chief of Police who has been in his position for a week and the Deputy Chief who I prayed for. Also the other 115 Officers and additional staff. We also handed out contact cards to the officers present that provides 24 hour, 7 days a week on-call chaplain hotline for those first responders needing to talk. On Saturday I plan to participate in a ride-a-long with this department.

We also were able to tour the destruction there in Gulfport.

We also learned about a serious issue with a man who is having his leg amputated today. He was featured in the Decision Magazine having prayer with Franklin Graham in the fall. His home is being worked on and there is hope that he will be able to arrive home as the work is completed. His daughter is also in our prayers. She is 5 years old and needs to have her second open heart surgery next month. Pray for this family.

A productive day indeed! We love divine appointments and wonderful opportunities. I could do this everyday! Perhaps not here though because I have yet to see a Panera Bread... :-). I love the hands-on pastoral, personal role I have been honored to serve in here.

That is all for now. I will report to you again on our further efforts in Gulfport and whatever the Lord has in store for us.

Day Three

Wednesday has been a very event-filled day. I am posting this blog report early because I am going to spend the evening with Odell and Carol. Finally, a home-cooked meal!

We started out this morning with "work orders." These are follow up visits to people that Samaritan's Purse (SP) helped build or repair homes hardest hit in Biloxi. What a treat! The people have been very gracious.

We visited a great grandmother, Fannie and her 4 year old great-grandson, Anias. She told her story to us. She and Anias and two others stayed. The storm surge came all-at-once. It filled the one-story house up to 8 feet. They climbed into the ceiling rafters to escape. Anias said that his grandmother was "sucked into the water" and almost drown. She fell through the ceiling panels into the rapidly rising waters. In as quick as the water entered the house it also left. And this happened each time the surge came in. They remained in the ceiling crawl space for hours as the storm raged. What a terribly frightening event. Anias was still living out that horrible event. Pray for little Anias.

We also had the awesome privilege of meeting with a single mother who has started her own business in the poor neighborhood of town which was also hard hit by the storm. I asked if a group of us could stop into the new store and bless it for God. She agreed. We met with her and as we prayed with her she wept. She was very grateful. We bought some things too. Her first sales to people outside of the state! Cool! She is very courageous. While many are leaving, she has decided to stay and start this business. I have taken many pictures so I can show you the items she is selling in case you want to place an order too! Pray for Teshina and her 5 year old daughter and 12 year old son. Her mother and father's home is being remodeled by SP team. (She and her kids live with her parents.)

We also met with the Dep. Chief of the Biloxi Police Department to pray for him and his staff. Dep. Chief McGilvary is an incredible leader. While his home was destroyed in the storm along with 46 other officers' homes, he guided, fed and networked nationally to help thousands. Keep them in your prayers.

One more story. We met with a woman who needed help moving boxes to storage. We helped and wouldn't you know, her adult daughter was helping and I discovered that she lives in Naperville, IL. What a fun connection! She is employed at Lucent. We talked and prayed together. She even knows where Wheaton Wesleyan Church is. I invited her to attend there, of course.

That is all for now. Be blessed!

Day Two

Day two - WOW! What an incredible eye opening experience it has been. I can't wait to share my photos with you of the tremendous devastation I have witnessed today and of the hope that people have.

First, prayer requests.
Last night we met Darlene. It was a divine appointment. We were at the airport to pick up another chaplain and she was sitting on a bench. Her story was one of incredible disappointment and loss. When we pulled up to the curb she recognized our vehicle I'd tag. She said that she was blessed by the efforts of Samaritan's Purse (SP). We prayed for her and shared the hope of Christ with her. She was very receptive. She will be traveling to North Carolina to pick up her adult daughter who is dealing with illness.

Pray for Che Che and Ione who we met today. They are needing the Lord. Ione will have her power cut off tonight because she isn't able to pay her bill. These ladies were very blessed to have our support and prayer. SP was involved in placing a new roof on Ione's home last month and they also were involved in the demolition of Che Che's home and cleanup. These women are widows and need the Lord. Che Che's son is in need of medical help and social security assistance.

A couple of us toured the Kiln and Bay area - hardest hit areas. Many of the homes - entire neighborhoods - were completely leveled. There is debris everywhere. I have many pictures to share with you of this area. There is one office building - a small home-like structure that was lying on it's side wedged between an electrical pole and a fallen tree. An amazing image.

Many stories can be shared. One story is told by a chaplain about a house that was completely under water. Everything was destroyed. SP was involved in the demolition work. The saddest part of that experience was having to demolish a grand piano. The home owner is a widow who cried as the team removed the piano. All her personal items were destroyed.

I am going to remain in Biloxi for the week. SP has finished all their work in Gulfport. There is plenty of need here.

Pray for the team leader, Marilyn who has served the Gulf Coast area since the fall. She is overwhelmed! Pray also for the 200 workers here from across the country working on the Methodist Camp here and several homes in the community. Pray also for the other chaplain, who is from Seattle. This is her second trip here. Her chaplain work in Seattle serves local police and fire personnel.

This evening is very relaxing. It is refreshing to hear what work others are doing.

I look forward to checking in with you again tomorrow.

Day One

I write you nearing the end of day one. I flew into Gulfport, MS this afternoon. Not so much of an adventure but a rather turn of events occurred. As I got off the plane here a couple approached me saying, "Hey, Pastor Rick!" I couldn't believe it but (as many may know from WWC) my former neighbor was on the same flight. Two years ago Odell and his wife moved south but I had lost contact with them. Wouldn't it just be like the Lord to renew Christian brotherhood clear across the country! It was a nice personal touch to meet familiar faces clear down here!

I am settled now in my dorm-room at a United Methodist Camp in Biloxi, MS. It was hit hard by Katrina because it sits right on the Gulf Coast. I can see the coast just a few hundred yards from my dorm. There are still many things to be done here. The nearby buildings are leveled or severely damaged.

I took a tour via car ride to see the devastation. Things along the shore are really in bad shape. A few miles in things appear to be taking shape. There are many opportunities to serve all around.

I will be trained and receive my orientation in the morning. I am not sure how God will choose to use me but I stand ready. Pray for me.

Until Tuesday, Rick

Live from Biloxi...

Final Preparation

It is the night before I head to Gulfport. As I prepare myself mentally I can't help but think about what a tremendous opportunity I will have to share Christ's love with hurting people.

With such devestation and hardship facing many in the Gulf states the opportunity share God's love is tremendous. My hope is to be a positive reflection of God's love and share His Word with people who are hurting.

I appreciate your prayers as I head out. I ask God to help me to be a blessing to people and that I receive His wisdom as I deal with circumstances and hear the hurts and life challenges of people.

Until my next blog.

Testing

This is a test. All through life you will be tested. The goal is not to avoid being tested. The goal is to be trustworthy! Testing will determine trust. Live from Gulfport - daily blog by Rick Carder

Packing up...

Next week at this time I hope you will be reading daily updates about my efforts in Gulfport, MS. I will be flying out on Monday morning to do my part in the hurricane relief efforts. I will be serving as a chaplain (see related article) through the Rapid Response Team. I am very excited and a little nervous.

I am just now trying to decide what I may need to pack. I know I need comfortable shoes. Check! I need to be sure to take the necessary clothes. Check! I need by Bible. Check! Perhaps a Bible study and sermon. Check, check! Oh yea, I need to take my cell phone; how can I live without that? Check! I will be posting messages to this blog from my cell phone. Technology is great!

What I really need to be sure to take with me is the Holy Spirit. I know that God is always with me. However, sometimes I forget the power of His Holy Spirit! I must lean upon His discerning power. I need to lean upon His wisdom. I need to draw my strength from Him. Many times, when working with people in crisis we can run the risk of serving in our own effort and strength.

I ask you to pray for me so that I will have the Spirit's touch upon my life. I need His help!
Pray for my protection. Pray for my family back home. Pray for wisdom and opportunity. Pray that the Lord of the harvest uses me to sow and reap souls for Him. Pray for positive relational contacts.

Until next week, same time, same station, stay tuned!

What is the Rapid Response Team?

In just a few weeks (March 20th) I will be heading out to Gulfport, MS to assist in the Hurricane Relief efforts. I will be participating as part of a Rapid Response Team through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). Many have asked me, What is the Rapid Response Team? What will you be doing?

In a recent article from Decision Magazine it featured the Rapid Response Team. The article was entitled, "After the Storms...Ministering Christ's Presence." It told of some of the heartbreaking stories of people who have lost so much in the aftermath of Hurricanes. One story is about a man named Beal. At 71 year old man who has been impacted by the love and compassion of a Chaplain named Wick.

Jack, a leader of the BGEA's Rapid Response Team, was quoted as saying, "When we talk about chaplains, we're not talking about preaching...It's coming alongside people and loving them and being available to share the Gospel with them." I call this "sharing good news in bad times." There are many in temporary housing still. Homes are not all built so many who are displaced are returning today with nothing and no place to call home. They are in hotels and other temporary housing programs.

Our message is Jesus and his care for you. We know that being a Christian doesn't exempt us from trouble and heart ache. For those who are not Christian really don't understand this. They feel that God has abandoned them. But Chaplains share the truth of the gospel, Jesus loves them and cares about them! Our ministry is one of listening and prayer. Our ministry is one of presence. Our ministry is one of demonstrated compassion. It is showing that God does care and offering the good news of the gospel. This provides hope through faith in Christ.

Another aspect of the ministry we provide is a ministry of oneness. The body of Christ is working together. Those in need don't see Baptist or Methodist. They see the church as one, working together to show love to those in need. Our message is united; God knows and cares about your need! Just as Jesus spoke, we will have troubles. There are those who think all is lost. Our hope is to be a minister of Christ's presence to those in need.

Anne Graham Lotz writes; "When disaster strikes, how are God's people supposed to respond besides weaping? ... There is one thing God's people can do more effectively than anyone else. Pray."

Skip Heitzig wrote another article in this edition of Decision Magazine. He says, "Being good or godly doesn't make us immune from disaster or from wicked events. Sometimes God calms the storm; other times, He calms His child in the storm." He offers five principles that we can share with those responding to crisis. These include:

Vigilance, Confidence, Reverence, Odedience and Expectance. If we can share our faith in Christ and apply these basic principles, our witness to others will help provide hope. As C.S. Lewis sayd, "God wispers to us in our pleasures...but shouts in our pains: It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world."

Pray for me as I prepare to head out and join the Rapid Response Team in Gulfport, MS.

(Reference: Decision Magazine, November 2005)

I read a great little reminder today...

“O Lord, let my words be sweet for tomorrow they may be mine to eat.” GULP!

When working with those in crisis and dealing with anxieties and fear it is common for people to say things that they really don’t mean. In the crisis of the moment the words just blurt out! I have dealt with people who have cursed me, yelled at me, said that they hated me, and even threatened me. I have had to remain calm and not become defensive. When dealing with these kinds of outburst you have to understand that these are not rational actions and certainly can not be taken seriously. My response must be calm and non-responsive. I often try to remember to keep my cool and attempt to de-escalate the situation. These words are on my board and remind me today of the importance of thinking first what to say and how my words may impact the other.

Think about it!

Updates to ministry!

My orders to depart came in!

I have been given my "shipping out" dates. I will leave March 20th for a week of ministry in the hurricane devastated area of Gulfport, MS. I will be participating as part of a Chaplain's Corp through the Billy Graham Association, Rapid Response Team. I am excited about the opportunity to help others in the name of Christ.

I will be participating as a Chaplain with the local police and fire departments there as well as assisting "those responding to crisis" who are working to restore their lives and property.

I will keep you informed via my blog articles while in Gulfport. Daily articles will be posted as to my activities and opportunities. You can find my blog updates at: http://love-cc.blogspot.com/ -or- http://rickcarder.blogspot.com/ (or via www.compassdriven.com or www.love-cc.org )

There will be two different views of my efforts being posted. One that related to serving low-income families in the name of Christ and another focused on helping provide Chaplain services and ministries to local first responders.

You can take a peak at my blogs weekly and see some of the new updates and articles posted. Since I post "raw" materials and random thoughts there you can also check out my news items related at my corresponding web sites:

http://www.love-cc.org/ -or- http://www.compassdriven.com/

I usually post articles from the media on topics related to each ministry.

Your prayers are appreciated as I prepare myself for a fast-paced exciting week! I also appreciate your prayers as I provide counsel and emergency chaplain services to those in-need.

LOST!

There are few things that provide healthy detachment from the pressures and worries of my real world. One of these is a spending a limited time watching TV. Everyone needs to take a break from the realities of life. I have chosen to follow the TV series, LOST. I justify taking the time because it is only one hour a week.

LOST is about a group of people who are stranded on an island in the south pacific after a terrible plane crash. There are about 46 survivors who struggle against injury, illness, mistrust and an island that is full of scary things, like large creatures and an evil black cloud that seems to attach very randomly. When each survivor confronts their fear of these strange creatures it seems that the evil cloud no longer appears. But then there are the "others" that are adding a whole new layer of threat. Given all their trauma and threat I often think that they need a chaplain! Perhaps they have one in the character Mr. Eko. He seems to introduce Christian themes into the series.

Without trying to stretch the metaphor I have to say that nearly every episode causes me to think about those who are LOST spiritually. There is a whole generation of people living in our neighborhoods that have little to no interest in Christian things. They are people that have at best, a blending of religion that forms a generic spirituality. I think about some of my neighbors who maintain a distance to Christian faith. In fact, just the other day I was told that Christianity is really not that important! My look of surprise may have said enough. I stared at him with the look of "What!?" This man shared that he was once an ordained minister with a conservative church and later became ordained to a more liberal church and more recently he became a Catholic. He left his more conservative views for more liberal views to finally end up in a very religiously symbolic church. He confessed that he doesn't know if he was "de-evolving or evolving." He rationalized his actions by saying that at least he was helping others who were in need. I shared my simple faith with him and said that it is about Jesus' shed blood for my sin. Pray for this man, we will call him "Jack."

I wish that I could have convinced this person that Christianity is more than just going to church. For this man and many others, they don't understand the personal, relational opportunity God longs to have with us. For many, Christianity is only about going to church on Sundays. For the cast of LOST the reality of being trapped on a threatening island experience is a daily reality. In our comfortable life we don't seem to be LOST but in reality without Christ we are forever LOST.

I met another man the other day who shared with me his spiritual journey. He talked about being at the top of his career ladder, making a lot of money and feeling very empty inside. He said that the change in his life occurred when he went to Statesville Prison (south of Chicago) on a tour with his co-workers. When he entered the jail the heavy door was slammed behind him and suddenly he said, "I was a prisoner." He realized that he was not so different than those being incarcerated. His life was a prison of its own. He said that after seeking out a local pastor in the city near his home he found freedom in Christ's shed blood and forgiveness. It was a chance for him to start all over again! He was rescued from the treat, fear and loneliness of being LOST! Let's call him "Hurley."

Many are like these two men. They may not be concerned about their need or even aware of it but they are still LOST. For those that are dealing with great crisis in their lives, they may be more aware of their need but they need a "Mr. Eko" to guide them and help them find faith. You may be just the person God can use to rescue the LOST. Jesus came to seek and save the LOST. What He may choose to use is you and me!

As for the TV series, we will have to watch and wait to see what comes next. Chances are that those stranded on the island of LOST will never be rescued off the island. It is a Gilligan's Island story in a modern day setting. However, for those of us who are also on this island and know Jesus (like Mr. Eko seems to) our mission is to share Christ's love and hope of salvation to anyone we encounter.

So, send out the search party or let God use you today to rescue the dying and heal the brokenhearted. Let God use you today to point the Way. Let us reach out to the cast of those who are LOST. They are people we know like, Sayid, Claire, Sawyer, Sun, Jin, Locke or Kate. Let us provide hope in Christ to the cast of those LOST in our community today!

For help with this blog: http://www.lost-tv.com/cast/

One Nation or Under God?

I recently read an article regarding the Pledge of Allegiance. (*) In the Pledge of Allegiance the words "under God" were added in 1954 as a means of unifying America against other forms of government that were completely secular. It was an extraordinary move of our government to assert the will of the people who were religious. The vast majority of elected officials support the current wording of the Pledge. The US Senate has voted 99 to 0, and the House 416 to 3, to keep "God" in the Pledge. Even today the majority of our government leadership is supportive of the current pledge as we saw with the majority of government leadership reciting the pledge publicly.

I can't help but wonder, are we a nation under God? Given how our country has become such a divided by such a simple statement. There are many debates about the pledge and even the "In God We Trust" statement on our money. However, the majority of Americans and even those who immigrate to this country accept this pledge as a form of patriotism, having little concern over it's content.

In the article by Warren Richey, he says:

"Not every organization strongly opposed to religious activities in public schools is opposed to the Pledge. In a friend-of-the-court brief, the National Education Association says even with the reference to God, the Pledge is a patriotic observance rather than a religious exercise.

Using the words " 'under God' does not convert the Pledge into a state-sponsored profession of religious belief," writes Robert Chanin in the NEA brief. "Rather, the words are best understood as a reflection of the simple historical fact that the founders believed in a supreme being, and that their belief led them to dedicate the nation to the fundamental secular precept that all men have unalienable rights to liberty and justice," Mr. Chanin says."

We are not one nation if we remove under God in our pledge. I think that a greater majority of people would be oppose to taking out the words "under God" than would those who would be opposed to taking out the words "one nation." The Bible certainly tells us that our nation is blessed whose God is the Lord! If I had to choose between one nation or under God, I would have to keep God in my pledge! Divided we may be but under God we must be!

We are a nation that historically and nationally embrace God in belief and ethic. We are a nation of laws which have historical roots to Judaism and mosaic law. We are a nation who believe prefer the belief of God. In fact, Barna reports that over 90% of Americans believe in God. So the problem is not the limitation of liberty here. We are a free and democratic nation because we are under God. We understand our freedom of choice and responsibility of action because of God.

Let us wave our flag of freedom of religion not freedom from religion. That is the freedom to worship God, call on His name in prayer and look to God for wisdom and strength. I say, "one nation, UNDER GOD with liberty and justice for all." Apart from God our liberties are left to the cruel authorities of dictators and tyrants act as though they have no accountability unto God.

(*) The US Supreme Court is at the center of a debate over the Pledge of Allegiance.
(11/3/2004) www.csmonitor.com
By Warren Richey Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor

Psalms 90: 1 - 17 - Study This Chapter

1 Lord, You have been our refuge in every generation. 2 Before the mountains were born,before You gave birth to the earth and the world,from eternity to eternity, You are God. 3 You return mankind to the dust,saying, ";Return, descendants of Adam."; 4 For in Your sight a thousand yearsare like yesterday that passes by,like a few hours of the night. 5 You end their life; they sleep. They are like grass that grows in the morning- 6 in the morning it sprouts and grows;by evening it withers and dries up.

Today I am reminded that God is in charge of my days. No matter the trouble or even the provision of God, He is the master of them both. Job was a righteous man yet he faced enourmous loss. Our God is a faithful God who loves us and no matter the crises we face, He is with us and is our provision.

Be blessed in good times and bad!

Rapid Response Team Opportunity!

I am excited to report that one of my prayer request has been answered. I recently made application to the Billy Graham Association to participate in their "Rapid Response Team" being deployed to the Gulf Coast region. My application has been approved!

I will now be making a trip (short-term missions) to assist in the hurricane relief effort. I will participate as a chaplain to local first responders as well as those affected by the distructive force of the hurricane. I will be part of this deployment team for one week and am making preparation to depart in the early spring. I appreciate your prayers!

Your prayers are working, so keep it up! I stand ready to serve God where He directs.

Being blessed,

Rev. Rick Carder

A Quote To Ponder On Injustice

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." - Martin Luther King

When working with people in crisis one thing remains true for all. That is, God is very much aware of their plight! God sees the oppressed and hurting victim of life's injustice. Many see the inconsistancy of life, the extreems of wealth and poverty and wonder where is God. Many see the disadvantanged and express frustration with the seemingly non-responsive nature of God. Many grow in their woundedness and become bitter and indifferent. Many simply give up! But the message we deliver is that God loves mercy!

Martin Luther King was a man who's ideals for human justice shaped a nation's treatment the rights of people. His Christian ethic wove into his political "justice for all" idealism. He won this battle the rights of black Americans. But it was sacrificed by the shedding of his blood by an assassin. His words now echo into the landscape of American idealism; a justice for all.

In the scope of world hunger, death, dictatorships and world disorder we all wonder, where is God? But, the good news is that God is just and loves mercy. He knows the sin-fallen nature of mankind. He know about man's self-districtive nature. He sees the suffering of the oppressed. He knows we are like "sheep without a shepherd." He has sent a Great Shepherd to rescue us who is Jesus Christ.

He has responded!

His response is to love mercy. His response is to pronounce judgment upon injustices. The problem is our response to embrace this Truth. We want justice on our terms. We hold back mercy when it is within our power to deliver. We reject the gift of Christ's love and hope for eternal life. Just ask anyone you meet, "If you could be god, how would you right the wrongs of this world?" Seldom will you find an answer, "For God...(I)...so loved the world that He (I) gave my only son (so that) whosoever believes in Me would not die but have eternal life." (Would we be willing to love as Jesus demonstrated on the cross and say, "Father, forgive them"?

King had it right, injustice for any one is a threat to justice for everyone. But, in the eyes of the our Holy God, his justice will come and let us prayer that we receive His mercy throught Jesus Christ, our Lord.

We carry a message for those in crisis. It is a message of HOPE through FAITH in Jesus Christ. Our efforts to deliver help to the hurting is to bring good news in bad times; it is to help people find CHRIST in CRISIS!

Wesleyan Theology and Post Modernism

Research from Rev Rick Carder

The central claim of this article is that debates over the integration of psychological theories and findings, on the one hand, and Christian doctrine, on the other, largely boil down to differences in theological methodology, and that the theological methodology often associated with John Wesley offers a compelling model of such integration. Section I lays out how it is that while there are logical and normative matters involved in discussions of theoretical integration, methodological issues are at the heart of such discussions, and hence, how it is that one's theological methodology determines one's theory of integration. Given this thesis, Section II outlines the general contours of Wesleyan theological methodology. This methodology involves four mutually interacting though hierarchically arranged sources of knowledge: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. The final section elucidates the manner in which this understanding of theological method can be taken as a viable and vital model of the theoretical integration of psychology and theology.

from: Wesleyan theological methodology as a theory of integration. by Porter, Steven L.

source: Journal of Psychology and Theology, September 22, 2004.

via: HighBeam&amp;trade; Research

COPYRIGHT 2004 Rosemead School of Psychology