This Thanksgiving season I reflect on the attitude. It is my conviction that our attitude determines much of the outcome of negative circumstances. In life, it seems that our ability to overcome negative situations is determined by way we look at things. Ninety percent of what happens to us is not circumstantial but attitudinal. It is about how we handle what happens to us that matters!
The problems with problems is that we give up too quickly when we fall on hard times. The challenges of life have little to do with the life and death issues but more about attitude. Pastor Bob, my pastor, gave a simple illustration about a squeeze bottle of honey. He asked, "If I squeeze the bottle, what will come out? Honey!" He continued, "What if the bottle contained vinegar?" The point is clear. Whatever is in us will come out when we are squeezed.
Under pressure we produce what we are. If our attitude us expectant of bad outcomes, so too will be our resolve. It is not that the circumstances of a situation changes but how we deal with a negative circumstance can effect the outcomes. It seems that Romans 8:28 rings familiar here. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that are called according to His purpose."
God has a plan, just as Jeremiah realized when he penned the words, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not harm you." God does want His best for us! Even in trouble, God can make something good come of it. So remember, that when times are hard, we don't have to become hard and bitter. When times treat us badly, we have a wonderful God who has a plan. Our part is to have the right attitude; an attitude of gratitude because it will change things!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Sunday, November 12, 2006
FW: Quick thought on crisis.
Finding Christ in Crisis is the unique role of the church. When the
church is being what it is called to be, its witness of Christ is
evident.
church is being what it is called to be, its witness of Christ is
evident.
I am glad when I discover a church being a reflection of Christ! So
that those in Crisis see the church respond with the Presence of Christ
with empathy and compassion.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Tragedy Followed By God's Touch!
2 Corinthians 1:3-6
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. New International Version
When tragedy strikes any home there is a tremendous amount of confusion, questions, blame and numbness. Tragedy overwhelms our capacity to process and make sense of a situation. Those involved are so overwhelmed by the sudden loss their emotions become unable to process and they become overloaded! Grief takes over!
Recenly the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church was called upon to bring help, healing and comfort because of a tragic suicide. The whole church was impacted by this sudden and tragic death. The suicide of anyone no matter the age is tough to cope with but a loss of a teen is epecially difficult. This loss brought out difficult emotions for many.
Today, I wish to address a couple of issues that the church faces in times of incredible tragedy and loss. I wish to say first of all to anyone reading this article that I was so appreciative and impressed with the role our pastors served. Their compassion and outreach to the family was a witness to the love our God has for us in Christ. They brought a ministry of God's presence and they lifted up the hurting in such a wonderful way. They each dedicated themselves to prayer and spiritual guidance that helped the family and also assisted the church people through their own grief and loss. This article is not intended to bring complain or criticism to our staff or leadership at Brookhaven.
The first thing that happens in times of tremendous loss like this is a sense of helplessness. Many unanswered questions arise during these kinds of situations. Some may even feel frustrated and experience unrelated hurt and personal grief. For those that have experienced any loss during their lives they experience compounded grief. They are grasping to find condolence for their past grief while also feeling a responsibility to bring comfort to those closest to the family. Their grief is compounded because they also carry personal hurt and anquished unresolved from previous loss.
Another issue that occurs in the church body is a feeling of responsibility. Many questions why this tragedy was not overted. Some are dealing with the blaming cycle of grief. Others are faced with disbelief that such tragedy could have even happened at their church. They might even make comments wondering what is wrong that our church that such a tragedy could happen. Some may look to "fix"this tragedy and develop programs that can prevent such tragedy in the future.
For these brief reason I write this article. These two common issues stem from a desire to resolve to such unresolved grief. While it is understandable and with the best of intentions that the church looks for ways to prevent tragedy in the future, it is unrealistic to believe that somehow the church can. I wish to encourage the people of Brookhaven and other churches faced with such a tragedy. Clearly, this tragedy is unsettling and it is completely normal to feel uncomfortable. Tragedy is never giving, it only takes!
The role of the church as a community is never intended to prevent tragedy but it stands ready to serve those in need. A church at this is compassionate and caring will always be called upon to help the hurting and bring comfort to those in difficult situations. The church should not and can not create a "bubble" that prevents its people from experiencing pain and suffering. As long as we live we will be faced with hardship and tough times! I wish to encourage the church to believe that the reason Brookhaven was called upon in this way is because God knows that it can and will be a place of hope, healing and help in the Name of Christ!
Now a word about the two issues addressed. For those that have faced loss of a loved one, realize your own grief when other's face tragedy. Know that your grief is part of the process of healing you are still experiencing and that you will continue to experience your grief for many years to come. Acknowledge that you do hurt and it is okay to feel! Reach out to someone and let them care for you.
For the church that feels responsible. There is no amount of planning and prevention that can keep these tragedies from our door-step! While closeness and community have its place and every church should intentionally reach out to eachother, there are times when tragedies just happen. It is a fact of life this side of heaven! A church that is overly responsible may infact create greater stress on its membership and staff by always trying to "safe guard." Bad things just happen! Please do not miss this, the church is not designed to avoid, prevent, or keep tragedy from coming! The church's role is designed to respond to tragedy and be a compassionate extension of our savior's love!
A church is at its best when it stands ready to bring comfort and the message of God's love to those hurting. We will always wish we could avoid tragedy but may we never avoid it or those in need of the ministry that the church (the body of Christ) can provide! Thank God that the church did respond in time of need. What an incredible witness of God's love!
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. New International Version
When tragedy strikes any home there is a tremendous amount of confusion, questions, blame and numbness. Tragedy overwhelms our capacity to process and make sense of a situation. Those involved are so overwhelmed by the sudden loss their emotions become unable to process and they become overloaded! Grief takes over!
Recenly the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church was called upon to bring help, healing and comfort because of a tragic suicide. The whole church was impacted by this sudden and tragic death. The suicide of anyone no matter the age is tough to cope with but a loss of a teen is epecially difficult. This loss brought out difficult emotions for many.
Today, I wish to address a couple of issues that the church faces in times of incredible tragedy and loss. I wish to say first of all to anyone reading this article that I was so appreciative and impressed with the role our pastors served. Their compassion and outreach to the family was a witness to the love our God has for us in Christ. They brought a ministry of God's presence and they lifted up the hurting in such a wonderful way. They each dedicated themselves to prayer and spiritual guidance that helped the family and also assisted the church people through their own grief and loss. This article is not intended to bring complain or criticism to our staff or leadership at Brookhaven.
The first thing that happens in times of tremendous loss like this is a sense of helplessness. Many unanswered questions arise during these kinds of situations. Some may even feel frustrated and experience unrelated hurt and personal grief. For those that have experienced any loss during their lives they experience compounded grief. They are grasping to find condolence for their past grief while also feeling a responsibility to bring comfort to those closest to the family. Their grief is compounded because they also carry personal hurt and anquished unresolved from previous loss.
Another issue that occurs in the church body is a feeling of responsibility. Many questions why this tragedy was not overted. Some are dealing with the blaming cycle of grief. Others are faced with disbelief that such tragedy could have even happened at their church. They might even make comments wondering what is wrong that our church that such a tragedy could happen. Some may look to "fix"this tragedy and develop programs that can prevent such tragedy in the future.
For these brief reason I write this article. These two common issues stem from a desire to resolve to such unresolved grief. While it is understandable and with the best of intentions that the church looks for ways to prevent tragedy in the future, it is unrealistic to believe that somehow the church can. I wish to encourage the people of Brookhaven and other churches faced with such a tragedy. Clearly, this tragedy is unsettling and it is completely normal to feel uncomfortable. Tragedy is never giving, it only takes!
The role of the church as a community is never intended to prevent tragedy but it stands ready to serve those in need. A church at this is compassionate and caring will always be called upon to help the hurting and bring comfort to those in difficult situations. The church should not and can not create a "bubble" that prevents its people from experiencing pain and suffering. As long as we live we will be faced with hardship and tough times! I wish to encourage the church to believe that the reason Brookhaven was called upon in this way is because God knows that it can and will be a place of hope, healing and help in the Name of Christ!
Now a word about the two issues addressed. For those that have faced loss of a loved one, realize your own grief when other's face tragedy. Know that your grief is part of the process of healing you are still experiencing and that you will continue to experience your grief for many years to come. Acknowledge that you do hurt and it is okay to feel! Reach out to someone and let them care for you.
For the church that feels responsible. There is no amount of planning and prevention that can keep these tragedies from our door-step! While closeness and community have its place and every church should intentionally reach out to eachother, there are times when tragedies just happen. It is a fact of life this side of heaven! A church that is overly responsible may infact create greater stress on its membership and staff by always trying to "safe guard." Bad things just happen! Please do not miss this, the church is not designed to avoid, prevent, or keep tragedy from coming! The church's role is designed to respond to tragedy and be a compassionate extension of our savior's love!
A church is at its best when it stands ready to bring comfort and the message of God's love to those hurting. We will always wish we could avoid tragedy but may we never avoid it or those in need of the ministry that the church (the body of Christ) can provide! Thank God that the church did respond in time of need. What an incredible witness of God's love!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Crisis and Happiness
The impact of trauma effects our happiness if happiness is but only circumstance-driven. Happiness is deeper than this. Many think happiness is related to materialism or even tied to good times. Happiness is not simply related to a feeling. It isn't just an emotion.
Psalm 1 says blessed is.... It relates to far more than an internal attitude. Its source is found in God.
So, when the storms of life come, we don't need to give up happiness. Sure, there is a time of mourning. There is an effect that is negative when trauma impacts our lives. I am not saying that we pretend to be happy when life's circumstance is negative. But, the inner strength of mankind should not easily taken away when faced with crisis.
Happiness is an inner confidence. It comes from the joy department of the inner soul! It is not simply to laugh or become cynical. It has an inner confidence that God is able to take this circumstance and make something beautiful. (Romans 8:28)
A Crisis Evangelist will demonstrate an inner strength - a joy - that goes deeper than trauma and circumstance. They are able to convey a sense of confidence. They are patient and empathetic. They provide a calming presence. While the world is rocked by crisis the evangelist will not preach but demonstrate a peace that passes all understanding.
Practicing the presence of God is our strength. We know that no matter the circumstance, God is with us.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Tools That Help!
What's in your toolbelt that serves people in crisis?
Every plumber I ever called for service had an adequate supply of resources. They have proper tools, pipes and knowledge that provided assistance to resolve my problems. The same is true for every profession. Having the right "stuff" is key to providing assistance.
The same is true in crisis evangelism. While many tools are intangible, having the right tools is key. What are these tools?
One. A heart that listens intently.
Two. Time.
These two resources are the answers needed for those in crisis.
Many people believe that they need to have the right answer and feel the need to fix the problems. But this puts a barrier for those in crisis.
The next time someone is in need, start with intentional listening and be willing to take the time necessary to demonstrate compassion and the presence of Christ.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Quote on Adversity
Victor Frankl one wrote, "A weak faith is weakened by perdicaments and catastrophes whereas a strong faith is measured by them."
Think about it. God intends to help is in our weaknesses.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Job 19:25-27
Job 19:25-27
19:25- I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
19:26- And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;
19:27- I myself will see him with my own eyes--I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!
New International Version
In The Midst Of It All!
In the midst of hard-ache and trouble the Bible tells us that God is with us. His comfort and hope of eternal life abides ever sure. As you face hardship, know that God is your strength.
As Job suffered hard ache at the hand of our arch enemy. He drew his strength from God. While the hardship brought loneliness and pain, he knew that God would deliver him. (Job 1:13-22)
In the midst of pain and trouble we are challenged to give up. But Job looked to God. Job did not charge God with his trouble.
Today I am reminded that we should prepare for the storms of life. Pastor Bob of the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church encouraged us to spiritually prepare for the difficult days. Job's loss is an example for us. He was the most prestigous and wealthy of his day. He was a God-fearing and pure, moral example. This was a time where God's blessing was not seen!
In times of trouble, we should look to God.
In my many times that I have met with people who are suffering heart-ache. The enemy would like us to give up but God has something in it that would ultimately bless us. I have tried to console many who are suffering with the words that bring comfort and hope. Much of the time I have had no words but have sat in silence with someone who is hurting. Words are so shallow in these times anyways.
Crisis Evangelism is all about the presence of God in times of trouble. Christians should be present in times of trouble. There is no greater, more sacred time to comfort the brokenhearted. (See Isaiah 61)
Today, take time to bring a ministry to the hurting and broken-hearted.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Is belief a matter of signs and miracles?
John taught the Jesus came to speak belief into us through our receiving of His message. Many believe because of good times and good fortune. Others believe because of miracles. Yet other believe because of a condition set.
I contend, as does Dr. Smith in chapel today, that belief is in you because of the Word of God in us! See John 15 for a context where belief is comprised. Is your belief based on signs or upon abiding in Christ's words?
In times of trouble, believe in Him. No matter the times, believe. In good and bad, believe. Our belief is not in me if it is circumstance oriented.
See 1 John for further clarification on belief. See John 3 to see how one man discovers the "new birth" of belief! Later we see this man burying the Man of Christ! He believed! It is a resurrection faith!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
The danger of loosing heart!
There is a problem we all encounter. It is complacency. The danger often causes us to risk becoming indifferent and cold-hearted. The things that we once were concerned about become non-essential.
Such indifference causes us to loose heart within as well as disconcerned about those in need around us. Complacency has its effect on our world view as well as what we choose to become involved in.
Every profession has within it the danger of becoming so familier with our duty that we loose the human emotion. Perhaps the routines that occupy our day no longer become interesting. We may even forget why we even do what we do. Police Officers and EMT worker run this risk. Nurses may also run this risk. They become complacent and indifferent.
As Christians, we too run the risk of knowing everything about doctrine and the Bible but loose heart. We become routine-driven! While on the other hand, there are many who suffer pain and heart-ache. We may even believe that someone's pain is their fault! Our heart becomes cold and indifferent.
The point is to know the Truth and have a heart for those in need. I encourage you reach out to the disadvantaged and hurting. You may even discover that the feeling and attitude of complacency will fade as you get engaged in the needs of the lost and hurting.
Don't loose heart! Care for those in need. It may even surprise you to learn that as you care and demonstrate grace, your own spirit will be renewed.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
The Amish Witness
(Taken from thepoint.breakpoint.com)
A day after the tragic, execution-style murders of Amish girls in a one-room Lancaster County schoolhouse, the lead for this story on ABC's World News Tonight was not school safety, the sordid past of the shooter, or the ever unanswerable "why?" It was forgiveness. Amish relatives of the dead and injured girls stood before the cameras and told the world that they believe God is in control and that God's forgiveness of them leads them to forgive others.
The Amish are part of the Holiness Movement. The name derives from their theology, but there is something about these separatists, and their more worldly cousins the Brethren and Mennonites, that radiates holiness. You see it on their faces and feel it in their presence. Confronted with a tragic evil, the world that usually only sees quaint buggies and handmade quilts got a glimpse of the very real faith that undergirds this community They withdrew from the world, but when the world came to them, they were ready.
Posted by Kristine Steakley on October 03, 2006 at 09:57 PM in Religion & Society Permalink
A day after the tragic, execution-style murders of Amish girls in a one-room Lancaster County schoolhouse, the lead for this story on ABC's World News Tonight was not school safety, the sordid past of the shooter, or the ever unanswerable "why?" It was forgiveness. Amish relatives of the dead and injured girls stood before the cameras and told the world that they believe God is in control and that God's forgiveness of them leads them to forgive others.
The Amish are part of the Holiness Movement. The name derives from their theology, but there is something about these separatists, and their more worldly cousins the Brethren and Mennonites, that radiates holiness. You see it on their faces and feel it in their presence. Confronted with a tragic evil, the world that usually only sees quaint buggies and handmade quilts got a glimpse of the very real faith that undergirds this community They withdrew from the world, but when the world came to them, they were ready.
Posted by Kristine Steakley on October 03, 2006 at 09:57 PM in Religion & Society Permalink
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Something ENLIGHTENING to think about...
ONLY IN
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
Only in
Only in
Only in
Only in
Only in
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.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
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.
Friday, September 29, 2006
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.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
An Illustration I found on-line...
As a group of amateur climbers scaled part of the Matterhorn near
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. |
Monday, September 25, 2006
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.
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.
Monday, September 18, 2006
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.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
9/11 Rememberance Event
Local heroes lead county in 9/11 retrospective
Speakers at downtown ceremony remind of need for awareness
She was born several years before the "I was born in 1966 - I turned 40 this summer - and it opened in the 1970s," said Marx, 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 "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 "There are things that go on that we don't let you know, sometimes in 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 "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 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 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 "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 |
Monday, September 11, 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!
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!
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