Sorry I haven't written in a few days. Been a weird week!
Our Daily Bread
I had a discussion with some friends recently about heaven and about how we were all looking forward to it. I made the statement that even if there wasn't a heaven, I would still be a follower of God. That sparked some discussion!
Yes, the promise of a heavenly eternity is wonderful! I prefer to focus on the heaven on earth! Most people would not consider their existence on this planet as "heaven on earth". That is our choice really. We have a choice of how we react to the things around us regardless of what we encounter in our lives.
Here is an example. When I walked through my portico last night, I scared a bird trying to next in one of my ficus trees. The bird fluttered around and around. I shielded my eyes (naturally). The bird eventually found his way out of of the portico. I noticed this morning that I literally scared the crap out of the bird because it was all over my jacket! I had to put it in the wash! I could have gotten mad. Instead I laughed about it! The lesson is that we can choose to laugh about things even when we get crapped on! hehehe
Lord, I want to make my life heaven on earth. Not so much in the things I encounter, but in spite of them!
Technology Thursday
Lots of fluttering going on in the technology world these days. Here are a few topics.
Tablet computers.
The iPad2 stirred up the tablet computer world again. Yes, there are some competitors that don't totally suck for those that don't like Apple products. The Motorola Xoom is about the only one that can come close. The Samsung devices aren't horrible. We will see how things shake out. I recently discovered some interesting tablets with basic featues, which are all most folks will use, that run less than $200. Very interesting option.
Wireless Providers
There is still much buzz about the ATT-TMobile buyout. Not sure it will pass the regulators. I know Sprint does NOT what this to happen! hehehe
PCs
There is a lot of talk about the reduced interest in desktop computers. The interest in smartphones and tablet computers is a big part of that decrease. I think another reason is the lack of innovation in processors. There used to be a huge difference in the processors in desktop computers vs laptops and smaller devices. Not so much any more! For guys like me that build their own PCs, catching sales on computer parts is pretty cool!
Other Stuff
My eyes are doing OK. They continue to heal. I am thankful.
I have an appointment with a cardiologist tomorrow for a check up. I will post how things go. Diabetes can cause lots of festive things to happen to your body.
I got my lab results back last night. My a1c went down a little, though I still need to work on it some more. My cholesterol is close to the specs (total cholesterol is good). I started my new blood pressure medicine on Tuesday. We will see how that goes.
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Drawing the line...
Our Daily Bread
I loved the text and the scripture for the Monday devotional. While the topic is one of my favorites, it is also one that I struggle with the most. Where do I draw the line?
Where do I draw the line at thinking of others instead of myself? I feel that I think of others way more than what is healthy most of the time. I do this because of some of the things I learned in my early Christian formation. The problem is that I think of others so much that I forget about my own needs. I forget that I can't minister or give out of an empty well. I need refreshed. I need for my needs to be met. How does that happen when you think of others first?
God keeps telling me that he will meet all of my needs. I will admit that I sometimes confuse wants with needs. I am working on that! I still have difficulty trusting God to meet my needs when I am thinking primarily of others. This concept is very evident in my personal relationships. I have a tendency to give too much. I get upset when the other person doesn't give back or care about my needs. As I wrote last week, I have been sorting out the people in my life that are "cactus people". I am doing a better job of keeping those folks at a distance while still being a friend.
What about you? How about your desire to think about others? What is your story? ;-)
Lord, thank you for helping me understand how I need to think of others more. I want to trust you to meet my needs.
Movie Monday
Lots of movies to review! I have been a movie fiend the past few weeks! I think I am almost caught up on my movies now. Most of the ones I want to see are on video now! The movie for this week is Sucker Punch.
Sucker Punch
This is a pretty wild fantasy movie that teenagers will probably love. The girls are cute. The girls are strong and conquering. The fantasy and special effects are pretty impressive. The story is odd, but it sort of works. In short, a wicked stepfather kills the main characters little sister and then pins the murder on her. He gets her committed so he can inherit her late mother's estate. Apparently, she was very wealthy. The rest of the movie happens in the insane asylum and in the girls' fantasies. Pretty wild stuff.
I give this movie 2 beare paws. See it at the theater on the big screen for the special effects.
Other Stuff
Going to the doctor for my annual physical today. I will post the results of my tests when I get them back.
I have a fun week planned. I will see how it goes. Lots of fun planned.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I loved the text and the scripture for the Monday devotional. While the topic is one of my favorites, it is also one that I struggle with the most. Where do I draw the line?
Where do I draw the line at thinking of others instead of myself? I feel that I think of others way more than what is healthy most of the time. I do this because of some of the things I learned in my early Christian formation. The problem is that I think of others so much that I forget about my own needs. I forget that I can't minister or give out of an empty well. I need refreshed. I need for my needs to be met. How does that happen when you think of others first?
God keeps telling me that he will meet all of my needs. I will admit that I sometimes confuse wants with needs. I am working on that! I still have difficulty trusting God to meet my needs when I am thinking primarily of others. This concept is very evident in my personal relationships. I have a tendency to give too much. I get upset when the other person doesn't give back or care about my needs. As I wrote last week, I have been sorting out the people in my life that are "cactus people". I am doing a better job of keeping those folks at a distance while still being a friend.
What about you? How about your desire to think about others? What is your story? ;-)
Lord, thank you for helping me understand how I need to think of others more. I want to trust you to meet my needs.
Movie Monday
Lots of movies to review! I have been a movie fiend the past few weeks! I think I am almost caught up on my movies now. Most of the ones I want to see are on video now! The movie for this week is Sucker Punch.
Sucker Punch
This is a pretty wild fantasy movie that teenagers will probably love. The girls are cute. The girls are strong and conquering. The fantasy and special effects are pretty impressive. The story is odd, but it sort of works. In short, a wicked stepfather kills the main characters little sister and then pins the murder on her. He gets her committed so he can inherit her late mother's estate. Apparently, she was very wealthy. The rest of the movie happens in the insane asylum and in the girls' fantasies. Pretty wild stuff.
I give this movie 2 beare paws. See it at the theater on the big screen for the special effects.
Other Stuff
Going to the doctor for my annual physical today. I will post the results of my tests when I get them back.
I have a fun week planned. I will see how it goes. Lots of fun planned.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, March 27, 2011
How do you view God?
Our Daily Bread
I am participating in a progressive Christianity class at church this month. I have been writing about it on my Tuesday blog entries. We are studying and discussing Marcus Borg's Embracing an Adult Faith series.
Most of the series talks about the topic of the devotional today. How do you view God? How do you view Jesus? How do you view your relationship to God? Most of us have a tendency to view religion from the things we were taught while we were growing up. That can be very different for each person depending on how they were reared! hehehe
I started questioning things very early in life. I accepted Christ as my savior at 8 years of age. I started studying the Bible fervently at 12 years of age. I continued that through college, and a few years later in seminary. God always seemed to be a crucial part of my life. After many years away from God, I started rekindling the relationship in 2007. It has been a blessing ever since!
Where are you in your relationship to God? How do you see God? Check out my Tuesday entries for the past few weeks. Try answering the questions yourself. Question everything you think you know. God will be there to lead you through the wilderness if you seek Him.
Lord, thank you for being a God of personal relationship. Thank you for being my God and King!
Psalm Sunday
The psalm for this week is Psalm 7. This psalm has a very vivid way of expressing stuff. Look at verse 14:
Psalm 7
A shiggaion[b] of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush, a Benjamite.
1 LORD my God, I take refuge in you;
save and deliver me from all who pursue me,
2 or they will tear me apart like a lion
and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me.
3 LORD my God, if I have done this
and there is guilt on my hands—
4 if I have repaid my ally with evil
or without cause have robbed my foe—
5 then let my enemy pursue and overtake me;
let him trample my life to the ground
and make me sleep in the dust.[c]
6 Arise, LORD, in your anger;
rise up against the rage of my enemies.
Awake, my God; decree justice.
7 Let the assembled peoples gather around you,
while you sit enthroned over them on high.
8 Let the LORD judge the peoples.
Vindicate me, LORD, according to my righteousness,
according to my integrity, O Most High.
9 Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure—
you, the righteous God
who probes minds and hearts.
10 My shield[d] is God Most High,
who saves the upright in heart.
11 God is a righteous judge,
a God who displays his wrath every day.
12 If he does not relent,
he[e] will sharpen his sword;
he will bend and string his bow.
13 He has prepared his deadly weapons;
he makes ready his flaming arrows.
14 Whoever is pregnant with evil
conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.
15 Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out
falls into the pit they have made.
16 The trouble they cause recoils on them;
their violence comes down on their own heads.
17 I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness;
I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.
Other Stuff
I had a nice time visiting family yesterday. I got home about 9:30 after taking Mom to a late afternoon movie and then to dinner. I got to eat at Tumbleweed. I love that place!
We had a nice service at Morning Blend this morning. It was nice seeing friends and making some new ones.
I went to the movies after church. I know. I see a lot of movies.... hehehe Took a nap when I got home. It is a lazy day. Getting ready for dinner group tonight will be pretty easy.
Not sure what will happen this week at work or in my personal life. I will keep stepping forward even though I cannot make out the road ahead of me. I have my annual physical tomorrow. That should be a hoot... ;-(
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I am participating in a progressive Christianity class at church this month. I have been writing about it on my Tuesday blog entries. We are studying and discussing Marcus Borg's Embracing an Adult Faith series.
Most of the series talks about the topic of the devotional today. How do you view God? How do you view Jesus? How do you view your relationship to God? Most of us have a tendency to view religion from the things we were taught while we were growing up. That can be very different for each person depending on how they were reared! hehehe
I started questioning things very early in life. I accepted Christ as my savior at 8 years of age. I started studying the Bible fervently at 12 years of age. I continued that through college, and a few years later in seminary. God always seemed to be a crucial part of my life. After many years away from God, I started rekindling the relationship in 2007. It has been a blessing ever since!
Where are you in your relationship to God? How do you see God? Check out my Tuesday entries for the past few weeks. Try answering the questions yourself. Question everything you think you know. God will be there to lead you through the wilderness if you seek Him.
Lord, thank you for being a God of personal relationship. Thank you for being my God and King!
Psalm Sunday
The psalm for this week is Psalm 7. This psalm has a very vivid way of expressing stuff. Look at verse 14:
14 Whoever is pregnant with evil
conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.
Wow! That sounds like a horror flick! hehehe
Psalm 7
A shiggaion[b] of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush, a Benjamite.
1 LORD my God, I take refuge in you;
save and deliver me from all who pursue me,
2 or they will tear me apart like a lion
and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me.
3 LORD my God, if I have done this
and there is guilt on my hands—
4 if I have repaid my ally with evil
or without cause have robbed my foe—
5 then let my enemy pursue and overtake me;
let him trample my life to the ground
and make me sleep in the dust.[c]
6 Arise, LORD, in your anger;
rise up against the rage of my enemies.
Awake, my God; decree justice.
7 Let the assembled peoples gather around you,
while you sit enthroned over them on high.
8 Let the LORD judge the peoples.
Vindicate me, LORD, according to my righteousness,
according to my integrity, O Most High.
9 Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure—
you, the righteous God
who probes minds and hearts.
10 My shield[d] is God Most High,
who saves the upright in heart.
11 God is a righteous judge,
a God who displays his wrath every day.
12 If he does not relent,
he[e] will sharpen his sword;
he will bend and string his bow.
13 He has prepared his deadly weapons;
he makes ready his flaming arrows.
14 Whoever is pregnant with evil
conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.
15 Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out
falls into the pit they have made.
16 The trouble they cause recoils on them;
their violence comes down on their own heads.
17 I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness;
I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.
Other Stuff
I had a nice time visiting family yesterday. I got home about 9:30 after taking Mom to a late afternoon movie and then to dinner. I got to eat at Tumbleweed. I love that place!
We had a nice service at Morning Blend this morning. It was nice seeing friends and making some new ones.
I went to the movies after church. I know. I see a lot of movies.... hehehe Took a nap when I got home. It is a lazy day. Getting ready for dinner group tonight will be pretty easy.
Not sure what will happen this week at work or in my personal life. I will keep stepping forward even though I cannot make out the road ahead of me. I have my annual physical tomorrow. That should be a hoot... ;-(
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, March 26, 2011
What are you peddling?
Our Daily Bread
I watched an episode of All in the Family last night at a friend's house. Archie did one of his classic "the Bible says this, Edith" lines. It was hilarious! It was also self-serving because he didn't want to go to his daughter's house for the weekend. He and meat head were at odd again!
That is the way we can use the Bible or our relationship with God if we are not careful. We can misinterpret the things that God tells us. We can misinterpret the things the Bible says. We can make the relationship with God all about us and how we want to live our lives instead of living a Godly life.
Is there something in your life that you are twisting around to your advantage? It is easy to do when you are tired, lonely and impatient for what God has for you. I know I have done it. I don't want to do it again....
Lord, I am not always sure of your will for my life. I want to be sure that I am not using things as an excuse for acting badly. Thank you for your patience with me.
Simply Saturday
The Buckeyes lost! Crap! I have mixed feelings because I am also a Kentucky fan after living in the state for 20 years. I really wanted OSU to move on in the NCAA tournament. Oh well. We will see what happens next year. We have three starters coming back, but will not have the experience and personnel that we have this year.
I am driving up north today to visit family. I am going to visit my great aunt first. I think this will be a big surprise for her. Then drive to my aunt's house that is only about ten miles away, then on to my Mom's place. I plan to take her to a movie and then dinner. Should be a fun day.
I had a great time at my walking buddy's home last night. We had a great supper and great company.
I also got to spend some time with Fly bear before dinner. I hadn't seen him in a few weeks. We got caught up on things.
I documented my education hours and renewed my PMP certification on Thursday. Woohoooo!
I scanned a Hale and Wilder duet so I could email it to him for review. I would like to sing it with him at the Illuminati concert in May.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I watched an episode of All in the Family last night at a friend's house. Archie did one of his classic "the Bible says this, Edith" lines. It was hilarious! It was also self-serving because he didn't want to go to his daughter's house for the weekend. He and meat head were at odd again!
That is the way we can use the Bible or our relationship with God if we are not careful. We can misinterpret the things that God tells us. We can misinterpret the things the Bible says. We can make the relationship with God all about us and how we want to live our lives instead of living a Godly life.
Is there something in your life that you are twisting around to your advantage? It is easy to do when you are tired, lonely and impatient for what God has for you. I know I have done it. I don't want to do it again....
Lord, I am not always sure of your will for my life. I want to be sure that I am not using things as an excuse for acting badly. Thank you for your patience with me.
Simply Saturday
The Buckeyes lost! Crap! I have mixed feelings because I am also a Kentucky fan after living in the state for 20 years. I really wanted OSU to move on in the NCAA tournament. Oh well. We will see what happens next year. We have three starters coming back, but will not have the experience and personnel that we have this year.
I am driving up north today to visit family. I am going to visit my great aunt first. I think this will be a big surprise for her. Then drive to my aunt's house that is only about ten miles away, then on to my Mom's place. I plan to take her to a movie and then dinner. Should be a fun day.
I had a great time at my walking buddy's home last night. We had a great supper and great company.
I also got to spend some time with Fly bear before dinner. I hadn't seen him in a few weeks. We got caught up on things.
I documented my education hours and renewed my PMP certification on Thursday. Woohoooo!
I scanned a Hale and Wilder duet so I could email it to him for review. I would like to sing it with him at the Illuminati concert in May.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, March 25, 2011
Unqualified...
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today spoke to me yet again. It is about God not disqualify for his service due to our imperfection. Thank God! I know I am not perfect!
I have folks in my life that constantly bring up my relationship to God when I act in a way they do not think is appropriate. I keep telling them that I am not perfect. I do the best I can. That is all any human can do. It is no excuse for purposely hurting someone, but it is a reason that accidental hurt and transgressions can occur. Life is too short to be mean! hehehe
Lord, thank you for letting an imperfect man like me serve you! I want to serve you better!
Foodie Friday
Here is a simple recipe for a game time snack!
2 large jars of Frito Lay queso cheese dip.
1 pound chorizo sausage
Brown the chorizo sausage in a frying pan. Drain all the grease off and pat dry on some paper towels. Mix the sausage into the two jars of queso dip in a sauce pan and warm it up OR mix together in a crock pot. Warm it up. Dip tortilla chips or pita chips or your favorite bread into the dip. Enjoy!
Other Stuff
My eyes are doing OK. The left eye is healing nicely. The right eye is blurry then clear then blurry, etc. I will keep plugging away at taking care of myself. I think I have enough energy now to further refine my eating habits. I can do this...
I have a nice weekend planned. I am visiting my family on Saturday, including a great aunt that is in a nursing home. I found out about her last night when I spoke to my mother. It will a nice surprise for me to stop by for a visit. I will stop to see my aunt. I will take my mother to a movie and dinner.
I have my church dinner group on Sunday. No new recipes this week. I plan to take some frozen appetizers for our wine tasting event. Very easy this month. I am having the group over in April. I am looking forward to that.
I learned some more things about myself last night during a conversation with a close friend. He also learned some things about me. Cool.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
The devotional today spoke to me yet again. It is about God not disqualify for his service due to our imperfection. Thank God! I know I am not perfect!
I have folks in my life that constantly bring up my relationship to God when I act in a way they do not think is appropriate. I keep telling them that I am not perfect. I do the best I can. That is all any human can do. It is no excuse for purposely hurting someone, but it is a reason that accidental hurt and transgressions can occur. Life is too short to be mean! hehehe
Lord, thank you for letting an imperfect man like me serve you! I want to serve you better!
Foodie Friday
Here is a simple recipe for a game time snack!
2 large jars of Frito Lay queso cheese dip.
1 pound chorizo sausage
Brown the chorizo sausage in a frying pan. Drain all the grease off and pat dry on some paper towels. Mix the sausage into the two jars of queso dip in a sauce pan and warm it up OR mix together in a crock pot. Warm it up. Dip tortilla chips or pita chips or your favorite bread into the dip. Enjoy!
Other Stuff
My eyes are doing OK. The left eye is healing nicely. The right eye is blurry then clear then blurry, etc. I will keep plugging away at taking care of myself. I think I have enough energy now to further refine my eating habits. I can do this...
I have a nice weekend planned. I am visiting my family on Saturday, including a great aunt that is in a nursing home. I found out about her last night when I spoke to my mother. It will a nice surprise for me to stop by for a visit. I will stop to see my aunt. I will take my mother to a movie and dinner.
I have my church dinner group on Sunday. No new recipes this week. I plan to take some frozen appetizers for our wine tasting event. Very easy this month. I am having the group over in April. I am looking forward to that.
I learned some more things about myself last night during a conversation with a close friend. He also learned some things about me. Cool.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Thursday, March 24, 2011
It is right to do so...
Sorry I missed my posting yesterday! This has been another busy week!
Our Daily Bread
The devotional for today talks about praising God. Seems simple, doesn't it? It doesn't have to be difficult. Just open your mouth or use your body or your talents to praise him. Many people think that they can't praise God because they can't sing. DOH! Singing is not the only way to praise God!
Many years ago an author wrote a very popular book called The Power of Positive Thinking. How much more positive can you get when you are praising God and being grateful for all the blessings in your life? That is positive!
As humans, it is easy to focus on the things that aren't so positive. You know what those things are for you. For me, it is my weight, being single, my health, blah, blah, blah. Those things are important, but being grateful and in a spirit of praise are much more important. The positive attitude brings more good things your way than be a Bitter Betty! heheheh
Lord, with a heart of gratefulness and praise, I want to live this day and every day for you.
Technology Thursday
Lots of press these days about new phones and about wireless carriers.
Phones
The major wireless phone carriers are all announcing 4G phones to take advantage of their 4G networks (the faster network technology) . Verizon's first phone, the Thunderbolt is pretty cool. It is an Android-based phone that is a little bigger than an iPhone. I tried it at the Verizon store last week. It is pretty cool. Verizon plans to have their 4G network rolled out to all the major markets by the end of 2011. We will see how that goes.
ATT released their first 4G phone, if they ever get their 4G network up and going. ;-( ATT is going to update their current 3G network to be faster then upgrade to the 4G capabilities.
Sprint and TMobile have both been offering 4G phones and 4G service for a while now.
Wireless Carriers
The big announcement this week was the ATT purchase of TMobile. If the regulators approve the purchase, ATT will become the largest wireless carrier in the US, surpassing Verizon. Speculation is that Verizon will buy Sprint if the ATT deal goes through. Is that really good for consumers or not? We will see.
Other Stuff
My eyes are doing better. I am having a physical on Monday to see if I can handle some health issues better. I might need to take a different blood pressure medicine. I will see how that goes. High blood pressure and high blood sugar can affect my eyes, so I need to keep both under tighter control. I can always eat better. ;-p
I attended the Illuminati rehearsal last night. My singing voice is sooooooo out of shape! I am singing second tenor since the need was greatest there. I can sing most of the parts, but there are some that lay too high for me. I let the other guys take care of those notes! I enjoyed seeing my chorus friends again.
I scheduled a long weekend trip to San Diego the first weekend in May. I used my free flight on Southwest to visit a new place. I am staying in the Gaslamp district. I want to see the San Diego Zoo. I am sure there are some other things to do as well. Woohooooo!
I am spending this evening at home getting the house straightened up after the dinner party on Tuesday. I have a few other things to do as well. I may need to work a little. I will see how today goes. I am trying to avoid working on Saturday.
Finally, it is amazing how God can deliver and heal us. I am grateful and praise God for moving through some things that have tortured me for a few years now. In some ways I wish things were different. In most ways, I am glad they worked out the way they did. God is so good.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Our Daily Bread
The devotional for today talks about praising God. Seems simple, doesn't it? It doesn't have to be difficult. Just open your mouth or use your body or your talents to praise him. Many people think that they can't praise God because they can't sing. DOH! Singing is not the only way to praise God!
Many years ago an author wrote a very popular book called The Power of Positive Thinking. How much more positive can you get when you are praising God and being grateful for all the blessings in your life? That is positive!
As humans, it is easy to focus on the things that aren't so positive. You know what those things are for you. For me, it is my weight, being single, my health, blah, blah, blah. Those things are important, but being grateful and in a spirit of praise are much more important. The positive attitude brings more good things your way than be a Bitter Betty! heheheh
Lord, with a heart of gratefulness and praise, I want to live this day and every day for you.
Technology Thursday
Lots of press these days about new phones and about wireless carriers.
Phones
The major wireless phone carriers are all announcing 4G phones to take advantage of their 4G networks (the faster network technology) . Verizon's first phone, the Thunderbolt is pretty cool. It is an Android-based phone that is a little bigger than an iPhone. I tried it at the Verizon store last week. It is pretty cool. Verizon plans to have their 4G network rolled out to all the major markets by the end of 2011. We will see how that goes.
ATT released their first 4G phone, if they ever get their 4G network up and going. ;-( ATT is going to update their current 3G network to be faster then upgrade to the 4G capabilities.
Sprint and TMobile have both been offering 4G phones and 4G service for a while now.
Wireless Carriers
The big announcement this week was the ATT purchase of TMobile. If the regulators approve the purchase, ATT will become the largest wireless carrier in the US, surpassing Verizon. Speculation is that Verizon will buy Sprint if the ATT deal goes through. Is that really good for consumers or not? We will see.
Other Stuff
My eyes are doing better. I am having a physical on Monday to see if I can handle some health issues better. I might need to take a different blood pressure medicine. I will see how that goes. High blood pressure and high blood sugar can affect my eyes, so I need to keep both under tighter control. I can always eat better. ;-p
I attended the Illuminati rehearsal last night. My singing voice is sooooooo out of shape! I am singing second tenor since the need was greatest there. I can sing most of the parts, but there are some that lay too high for me. I let the other guys take care of those notes! I enjoyed seeing my chorus friends again.
I scheduled a long weekend trip to San Diego the first weekend in May. I used my free flight on Southwest to visit a new place. I am staying in the Gaslamp district. I want to see the San Diego Zoo. I am sure there are some other things to do as well. Woohooooo!
I am spending this evening at home getting the house straightened up after the dinner party on Tuesday. I have a few other things to do as well. I may need to work a little. I will see how today goes. I am trying to avoid working on Saturday.
Finally, it is amazing how God can deliver and heal us. I am grateful and praise God for moving through some things that have tortured me for a few years now. In some ways I wish things were different. In most ways, I am glad they worked out the way they did. God is so good.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Sometimes you have to get a little dirty...
Our Daily Bread
I planted some bulbs the other day. Yes, I know I am about five months too late to plant bulbs. I looked at them and they were starting to sprout inside their packages! I thought it couldn't hurt to plant them. I will see what happens.
The devotional today is about cultivating -- God cultivating us like gardeners would their beloved plants. Gardeners know (and I did not) that you have to shake things up for plants to be healthy. You have to loosen and turn the soil to let in water and air to the plant roots.
God allows things to happen to us at times to shake us up. To turn the soil that we grow in to let in water and nutrients so we can grow. I know it is difficult to deal with. I find that I listen to God more intently during times of isolation. The alone time I spent over the weekend helped me to realize some things about the way my life is going to be. First, I need to love, but not cuddle with the cactus people in my life. You know the people I am talking about. I also call them energy vampires. I also know that I need to trust God more and love myself like God loves me.
Lord, I want to love like you love. I ask for your strength and guidance.
Teachings Tuesday
The chapter for this week in the Embracing an Adult Faith workbook is about Salvation. Here are a few of the questions and my answers.
What words, images, memories, and experiences do you associate with the word salvation?
Forgiveness
sacrifice
forsaking self
The little Sunday School class where I accepted Christ as my Savior
A new beginning
Sin is another problematic word for many. What is your current understanding of this word? How has that changed from earlier years?
Sin used to be the things that my parents didn't want me to do. Now I understand sin as the things that God doesn't want me to do or not doing the things I should be doing.
What images, symbols, words. rituals and practices support you in the way?
Prayers, songs, acts of gratitude, self-reflection, serving others, listening.
Other Stuff
My right eye is trying to heal from the laser surgery last Wednesday. That is a relief. It will take a few months for it to heal completely. The left eye is doing great.
I figured out some issues at work yesterday. Looking forward to fixing some more stuff today. Woohooo!
I am looking forward to making dinner for friends tonight.
God moved me past some things over the weekend. Like I keep saying, I have no idea where this road is going. I will keep walking. What does it matter where it goes as long as God is leading? And yes, I admit that NOT knowing drives me nuts sometimes! I am only human! God, please throw me a bone sometime! hehehe I discovered something very important -- there is peace on this road. The peace that passeth all understanding.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I planted some bulbs the other day. Yes, I know I am about five months too late to plant bulbs. I looked at them and they were starting to sprout inside their packages! I thought it couldn't hurt to plant them. I will see what happens.
The devotional today is about cultivating -- God cultivating us like gardeners would their beloved plants. Gardeners know (and I did not) that you have to shake things up for plants to be healthy. You have to loosen and turn the soil to let in water and air to the plant roots.
God allows things to happen to us at times to shake us up. To turn the soil that we grow in to let in water and nutrients so we can grow. I know it is difficult to deal with. I find that I listen to God more intently during times of isolation. The alone time I spent over the weekend helped me to realize some things about the way my life is going to be. First, I need to love, but not cuddle with the cactus people in my life. You know the people I am talking about. I also call them energy vampires. I also know that I need to trust God more and love myself like God loves me.
Lord, I want to love like you love. I ask for your strength and guidance.
Teachings Tuesday
The chapter for this week in the Embracing an Adult Faith workbook is about Salvation. Here are a few of the questions and my answers.
What words, images, memories, and experiences do you associate with the word salvation?
Forgiveness
sacrifice
forsaking self
The little Sunday School class where I accepted Christ as my Savior
A new beginning
Sin is another problematic word for many. What is your current understanding of this word? How has that changed from earlier years?
Sin used to be the things that my parents didn't want me to do. Now I understand sin as the things that God doesn't want me to do or not doing the things I should be doing.
What images, symbols, words. rituals and practices support you in the way?
Prayers, songs, acts of gratitude, self-reflection, serving others, listening.
Other Stuff
My right eye is trying to heal from the laser surgery last Wednesday. That is a relief. It will take a few months for it to heal completely. The left eye is doing great.
I figured out some issues at work yesterday. Looking forward to fixing some more stuff today. Woohooo!
I am looking forward to making dinner for friends tonight.
God moved me past some things over the weekend. Like I keep saying, I have no idea where this road is going. I will keep walking. What does it matter where it goes as long as God is leading? And yes, I admit that NOT knowing drives me nuts sometimes! I am only human! God, please throw me a bone sometime! hehehe I discovered something very important -- there is peace on this road. The peace that passeth all understanding.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, March 21, 2011
Better using honey than vinegar...
Our Daily Bread
My grandmother used to tell me "It is easier to attract a bee with honey than vinegar". I didn't understand that when I was younger. I finally realized that she meant it is easier to overcome agreements with folks by being nice (honey) instead of being nasty (vinegar). Do you think that is true?
I have seen it work both ways. There are some folks and some times when using honey is definitely the way to go. I realize there have been times when I was nice and charming and resolved an awkward situation very quickly and painlessly. There are other times when I had to be firm, but not nasty. There have been a few times that I had to get downright nasty to get my point across. I try to minimize the number of occurrences of the latter. It is difficult at times. Very difficult. I have a tendency to go from strategy 1 to strategy 3 in 1.5 seconds if I am in a hurry or stressed. Not a good thing.
The point is that as children of God, we should "default" to or make a normal behavior to be nice. We can still be firm, but be nice.
Lord, help me remember that every person is your creation. I want to treat them that way.
Movie Monday
I saw a lot of movies last week. My basic schedule was work, eat movies. The movie thing has been a challenge for me since I gave up popcorn for Lent. I received not one, but two, free popcorn coupons in the last week! Get thee behind me Satan! Man does not live by popcorn alone! hehehe
Limitless
I saw the new movie Limitless yesterday after church. It was an interesting ride. The plot was cool. There were interesting characters. Smart people. I like smart people. There was also a lesson about taking short cuts to get ahead. There are consequences to your actions. I know if anyone else in the audience got that, but I did... The acting was as good as it needed to be. Robert de Niro had a small part. He did well with the lines he had.
Overall, I give the movie 2 bear paws. You can rent this one. There really wasn't anything that required seeing the movie on the big screen.
Other Stuff
I tried to take it easy over the weekend. Spent a lot of time alone or at the movies. Watched college basketball games (Goooooo Bucks!). I am a little nervous about playing UK on Friday. I am a UK fan as well, but I want OSU to win. OH --- IO! ;-)
My eyes are doing OK. The right eye is healing. I am going to make doctor appointment for an annual physical, maybe have a stress test done. Haven't had one of those for a while. I need to eat better and also take better care of my borderline high blood pressure. HBP runs in my family. My uncle sort of died from it. ;-(
Busy week. I am looking forward to spending time with friends. I also plan to rejoin Illuminati on Wednesday night. It is the small, sacred music group of the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
My grandmother used to tell me "It is easier to attract a bee with honey than vinegar". I didn't understand that when I was younger. I finally realized that she meant it is easier to overcome agreements with folks by being nice (honey) instead of being nasty (vinegar). Do you think that is true?
I have seen it work both ways. There are some folks and some times when using honey is definitely the way to go. I realize there have been times when I was nice and charming and resolved an awkward situation very quickly and painlessly. There are other times when I had to be firm, but not nasty. There have been a few times that I had to get downright nasty to get my point across. I try to minimize the number of occurrences of the latter. It is difficult at times. Very difficult. I have a tendency to go from strategy 1 to strategy 3 in 1.5 seconds if I am in a hurry or stressed. Not a good thing.
The point is that as children of God, we should "default" to or make a normal behavior to be nice. We can still be firm, but be nice.
Lord, help me remember that every person is your creation. I want to treat them that way.
Movie Monday
I saw a lot of movies last week. My basic schedule was work, eat movies. The movie thing has been a challenge for me since I gave up popcorn for Lent. I received not one, but two, free popcorn coupons in the last week! Get thee behind me Satan! Man does not live by popcorn alone! hehehe
Limitless
I saw the new movie Limitless yesterday after church. It was an interesting ride. The plot was cool. There were interesting characters. Smart people. I like smart people. There was also a lesson about taking short cuts to get ahead. There are consequences to your actions. I know if anyone else in the audience got that, but I did... The acting was as good as it needed to be. Robert de Niro had a small part. He did well with the lines he had.
Overall, I give the movie 2 bear paws. You can rent this one. There really wasn't anything that required seeing the movie on the big screen.
Other Stuff
I tried to take it easy over the weekend. Spent a lot of time alone or at the movies. Watched college basketball games (Goooooo Bucks!). I am a little nervous about playing UK on Friday. I am a UK fan as well, but I want OSU to win. OH --- IO! ;-)
My eyes are doing OK. The right eye is healing. I am going to make doctor appointment for an annual physical, maybe have a stress test done. Haven't had one of those for a while. I need to eat better and also take better care of my borderline high blood pressure. HBP runs in my family. My uncle sort of died from it. ;-(
Busy week. I am looking forward to spending time with friends. I also plan to rejoin Illuminati on Wednesday night. It is the small, sacred music group of the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Sunday, March 20, 2011
A Reminder
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today talks about the memorial the Israelites build after they crossed the Jordan River into the promised land. God instructed them to do so as a reminder of the miraculous event in their history. The devotional continues on asking us how we remember the things that God has done for us. Are we really grateful? Do we remember these things when we have doubts?
I came up with a card system that I posted on my refrigerator around Thanksgiving of 2009. I asked a friend to share in this little adventure. Each of us had four cards stuck on the fridge. Each time we went by the fridge, which most of you know is pretty often for me, I would write on the cards or read the cards. The cards contained the following lists:
List of important people in my life (my entire life)
List of blessings (other than people)
List of answered prayers
List of prayer requests
This was a powerful exercise for me. I should do it more often, maybe two or three times per year.
Why don't you try it? ;-)
Lord, I want to be grateful for the mighty ways you work in my life. I want to remember these things when I have doubts and fears.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 6 is another psalm where the writer is groaning in anguish. This one takes a little different turn as the writer acknowledges God working in his life and in the lives of his enemies. Please try to read this psalm once a day this week. Does it express what you are feeling? Are you confident that God will overcome in your life?
Psalm 6
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. According to sheminith.[b] A psalm of David.
1 LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger
or discipline me in your wrath.
2 Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint;
heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony.
3 My soul is in deep anguish.
How long, LORD, how long?
4 Turn, LORD, and deliver me;
save me because of your unfailing love.
5 Among the dead no one proclaims your name.
Who praises you from the grave?
6 I am worn out from my groaning.
All night long I flood my bed with weeping
and drench my couch with tears.
7 My eyes grow weak with sorrow;
they fail because of all my foes.
8 Away from me, all you who do evil,
for the LORD has heard my weeping.
9 The LORD has heard my cry for mercy;
the LORD accepts my prayer.
10 All my enemies will be overwhelmed with shame and anguish;
they will turn back and suddenly be put to shame.
Other Stuff
I am thankful that my right eye is starting to settle down again. I am taking additional efforts to watch my blood sugar and blood pressure. I hope this will help prevent any more complications with my eyes. I have been doing pretty well with the blood sugar levels, though sometimes I eat too many carbs and take a lot of insulin to cover them. Not good. I need to work on my stress levels and my blood pressure. High blood pressure can have the same effect on my eyes.
I have had a weird weekend so far. Saw a few movies. Had a couple decent meals (I love Panera!). Last night I watched college basketball and finished off a bottle of wine! Yikes!
Purging your life of the things and people that distract you from what you need to do is very, very difficult. I have always been taught to love others as myself. I don't know that I want to be treated by others like I am doing right now to a few friends. They hurt my feelings on purpose. I am not punishing them, but separating myself from those who don't consider me important enough to care. I don't think this is wrong of me. Fortunately, there aren't too many folks like that in my life. I asked God for more wisdom for what to do in these situations. I am cordial to the folks at church or out and about. I am not pursuing an active friendship with them due to the way they treated me. I will forgive. I will be OK. I pray they will learn and be better.
I will probably clean the house and relax today. More college basketball games on TV. I am having friends over for dinner on Tuesday night. I need to clean the house before their arrival. I may go to the grocery this evening since I have a class at church Monday night.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today talks about the memorial the Israelites build after they crossed the Jordan River into the promised land. God instructed them to do so as a reminder of the miraculous event in their history. The devotional continues on asking us how we remember the things that God has done for us. Are we really grateful? Do we remember these things when we have doubts?
I came up with a card system that I posted on my refrigerator around Thanksgiving of 2009. I asked a friend to share in this little adventure. Each of us had four cards stuck on the fridge. Each time we went by the fridge, which most of you know is pretty often for me, I would write on the cards or read the cards. The cards contained the following lists:
List of important people in my life (my entire life)
List of blessings (other than people)
List of answered prayers
List of prayer requests
This was a powerful exercise for me. I should do it more often, maybe two or three times per year.
Why don't you try it? ;-)
Lord, I want to be grateful for the mighty ways you work in my life. I want to remember these things when I have doubts and fears.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 6 is another psalm where the writer is groaning in anguish. This one takes a little different turn as the writer acknowledges God working in his life and in the lives of his enemies. Please try to read this psalm once a day this week. Does it express what you are feeling? Are you confident that God will overcome in your life?
Psalm 6
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. According to sheminith.[b] A psalm of David.
1 LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger
or discipline me in your wrath.
2 Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint;
heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony.
3 My soul is in deep anguish.
How long, LORD, how long?
4 Turn, LORD, and deliver me;
save me because of your unfailing love.
5 Among the dead no one proclaims your name.
Who praises you from the grave?
6 I am worn out from my groaning.
All night long I flood my bed with weeping
and drench my couch with tears.
7 My eyes grow weak with sorrow;
they fail because of all my foes.
8 Away from me, all you who do evil,
for the LORD has heard my weeping.
9 The LORD has heard my cry for mercy;
the LORD accepts my prayer.
10 All my enemies will be overwhelmed with shame and anguish;
they will turn back and suddenly be put to shame.
Other Stuff
I am thankful that my right eye is starting to settle down again. I am taking additional efforts to watch my blood sugar and blood pressure. I hope this will help prevent any more complications with my eyes. I have been doing pretty well with the blood sugar levels, though sometimes I eat too many carbs and take a lot of insulin to cover them. Not good. I need to work on my stress levels and my blood pressure. High blood pressure can have the same effect on my eyes.
I have had a weird weekend so far. Saw a few movies. Had a couple decent meals (I love Panera!). Last night I watched college basketball and finished off a bottle of wine! Yikes!
Purging your life of the things and people that distract you from what you need to do is very, very difficult. I have always been taught to love others as myself. I don't know that I want to be treated by others like I am doing right now to a few friends. They hurt my feelings on purpose. I am not punishing them, but separating myself from those who don't consider me important enough to care. I don't think this is wrong of me. Fortunately, there aren't too many folks like that in my life. I asked God for more wisdom for what to do in these situations. I am cordial to the folks at church or out and about. I am not pursuing an active friendship with them due to the way they treated me. I will forgive. I will be OK. I pray they will learn and be better.
I will probably clean the house and relax today. More college basketball games on TV. I am having friends over for dinner on Tuesday night. I need to clean the house before their arrival. I may go to the grocery this evening since I have a class at church Monday night.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, March 19, 2011
You have to put it on...
Our Daily Bread
I had a friend that had a well-placed ADT security systems sign in his front yard. Any walking by house could see the sign and understand that his house was protected. The funniest part is that he didn't even have the service turned on! No protection at all!
We as Christians can do the same when it comes to the armor of God. We know about it. We read about it. We know how it can help us be victors in our daily lives, but we don't have it on!
The devotional ends with this line:
God’s armor is tailor-made for you, but you must put it on.
Lord, I want to put on your armor so I can be a better follower of Christ!
Simply Saturday
I am in "watching movies" mode right now. I don't want to think any big thoughts. I am trying to take today off from work even though I have a ton of stuff to do. Whew. This will be my first full day off in two weeks if I stay away from my work laptop. ;-( I am stressed about work. I am stressed about some personal relationship issues. I am stressed about my health.
So what I am doing about it? Movies! hehehe. I also received an email about an incredible deal on a 3G iPad2 from ATT. Hmmmmm. I try not to buy myself some happy, but this may be the time to do it... I will think about it.
I am also spending time in prayer and thought away from my usual activities. I am so fortunate to have close friends to talk with and pray with. I have been evaluating some friendships lately, trying to push the folks that aren't healthy for me away to arms distance. I have a tendency to hold those folks too close, expecting them to act differently with me than they do others. I can't see the person for who they really are -- I see them as they could be. Is that a fault? Only when it leads me to unhealthy relationships with these folks. I tell my walking buddy that we are NOT in charge of fixing people! We can only love and support to the best of our ability without getting used and abused. I can stand a lot and I have with some "friends".
God is so good to me. Most of the bad stuff that happens to me is my own fault. Disobedience. Doing stuff on my own instead of being patient. Not taking care of myself. Being selfish, arrogant and prideful. This apple wants to be an orange. Apple = human. Orange = Godly. I will keep trying. Keep pushing forward.
In all humility, I am a strong, formidable, resilient man who will overcome and conquer by the grace and power of our God and King.
I pray; the same for you.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I had a friend that had a well-placed ADT security systems sign in his front yard. Any walking by house could see the sign and understand that his house was protected. The funniest part is that he didn't even have the service turned on! No protection at all!
We as Christians can do the same when it comes to the armor of God. We know about it. We read about it. We know how it can help us be victors in our daily lives, but we don't have it on!
The devotional ends with this line:
God’s armor is tailor-made for you, but you must put it on.
Lord, I want to put on your armor so I can be a better follower of Christ!
Simply Saturday
I am in "watching movies" mode right now. I don't want to think any big thoughts. I am trying to take today off from work even though I have a ton of stuff to do. Whew. This will be my first full day off in two weeks if I stay away from my work laptop. ;-( I am stressed about work. I am stressed about some personal relationship issues. I am stressed about my health.
So what I am doing about it? Movies! hehehe. I also received an email about an incredible deal on a 3G iPad2 from ATT. Hmmmmm. I try not to buy myself some happy, but this may be the time to do it... I will think about it.
I am also spending time in prayer and thought away from my usual activities. I am so fortunate to have close friends to talk with and pray with. I have been evaluating some friendships lately, trying to push the folks that aren't healthy for me away to arms distance. I have a tendency to hold those folks too close, expecting them to act differently with me than they do others. I can't see the person for who they really are -- I see them as they could be. Is that a fault? Only when it leads me to unhealthy relationships with these folks. I tell my walking buddy that we are NOT in charge of fixing people! We can only love and support to the best of our ability without getting used and abused. I can stand a lot and I have with some "friends".
God is so good to me. Most of the bad stuff that happens to me is my own fault. Disobedience. Doing stuff on my own instead of being patient. Not taking care of myself. Being selfish, arrogant and prideful. This apple wants to be an orange. Apple = human. Orange = Godly. I will keep trying. Keep pushing forward.
In all humility, I am a strong, formidable, resilient man who will overcome and conquer by the grace and power of our God and King.
I pray; the same for you.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, March 18, 2011
No one mourns the wicked...
Sorry I missed posting yesterday!
Our Daily Bread
It is human nature to want to see the wicked punished. "No one mourns the wicked!" the musical says. I usually want the wicked to get punished while they are still alive! I am only human!
Then I thought - what if someone thinks I am wicked? How should I be punished? In this life and the next? Was what I did really wicked or was it just misperceived? My overactive mind took that last question to this one -- "Am I misperceiving the acts of others into something "wicked" because it is not what I want to happen?" I get so tired of thinking some times! heheheh
The bottom line is this. Do you best to be a Godly person. That is all you can do. Ask forgiveness from God when you sin. Ask forgiveness from others when you sin against them.
Lord, I want to be like you. I need more faith and strength!
Foodie Friday
Here is another appetizer from the Walnut Street Chancel Choir cookbook that I thought was cool. Cashew Chicken balls.
Cashew Chicken Balls (Millie Goodman)
1/2 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
2 tbs finely chopped mild sweet onion
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 tbs dry sherry
1/2 finely chopped cashews
Combine all the ingredients except for the nuts in a large bowl. Use a teaspoon to scoop out amount to form balls. Roll in cashews. Chill. Yields 20 appetizers.
Other Stuff
The eye doctor appointment on Wednesday did not go as planned. My left eye is healing very nicely. Woohoooo! I mentioned to the doctor that my right eye was acting up a little bit. He checked it and verified my fear. There is something else going on with the right eye now. He took some pictures of my eyes (I know where your mind was going...) and then had to do a minor laser surgery on the right eye. I was very upset. There is no blood. There is some swelling in the eye around my field of vision. This is a result of my diabetes. This can happen if I take care of myself or not. It is very frustrating...
I have been in movie mode the past two weeks. Work, eat, movies. Going to watch basketball games this weekend.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Our Daily Bread
It is human nature to want to see the wicked punished. "No one mourns the wicked!" the musical says. I usually want the wicked to get punished while they are still alive! I am only human!
Then I thought - what if someone thinks I am wicked? How should I be punished? In this life and the next? Was what I did really wicked or was it just misperceived? My overactive mind took that last question to this one -- "Am I misperceiving the acts of others into something "wicked" because it is not what I want to happen?" I get so tired of thinking some times! heheheh
The bottom line is this. Do you best to be a Godly person. That is all you can do. Ask forgiveness from God when you sin. Ask forgiveness from others when you sin against them.
Lord, I want to be like you. I need more faith and strength!
Foodie Friday
Here is another appetizer from the Walnut Street Chancel Choir cookbook that I thought was cool. Cashew Chicken balls.
Cashew Chicken Balls (Millie Goodman)
1/2 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
2 tbs finely chopped mild sweet onion
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 tbs dry sherry
1/2 finely chopped cashews
Combine all the ingredients except for the nuts in a large bowl. Use a teaspoon to scoop out amount to form balls. Roll in cashews. Chill. Yields 20 appetizers.
Other Stuff
The eye doctor appointment on Wednesday did not go as planned. My left eye is healing very nicely. Woohoooo! I mentioned to the doctor that my right eye was acting up a little bit. He checked it and verified my fear. There is something else going on with the right eye now. He took some pictures of my eyes (I know where your mind was going...) and then had to do a minor laser surgery on the right eye. I was very upset. There is no blood. There is some swelling in the eye around my field of vision. This is a result of my diabetes. This can happen if I take care of myself or not. It is very frustrating...
I have been in movie mode the past two weeks. Work, eat, movies. Going to watch basketball games this weekend.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
You call that an answer?
Our Daily Bread
Yes, I said that many times in my prayers, talks and rants with God -- "You call that an answer?" DOH! Boy, do I have chutzpah! It is difficult for us to see God's answers or to accept God's answers when we keep getting in the way of what God is trying to do! I know I get in his way a lot when I try to accelerate some thing that I think is supposed to happen! DOH!
The bottom line: It is OK to question God in honest and open discussion. We need to move on from the questioning to the trusting and believing. I know. I have been there a lot the past few months! Trust. Believe. Have faith. It is so much easier than doing things on your own or driving yourself crazy with silly scenarios of what could happen! Not that I actually do that or anything... ;-p
Lord, I want to have faith. I want to trust in your plan. It is the best thing for me!
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
I have abstained from eating popcorn for over a week now. Woohooo! I have been to four movies and a favorite pizza place with a popcorn popper. Nary a kernel! I can do this!
My weight is about the same. Blah, blah, blah.
I will start riding my recumbent bike this week. I have been walking a few times per week. I am still taking it easy until my eye heals.
Other Stuff
I have two doctor appointments today. Sinus infection again and my eye doctor checkup. I will post how those go.
I was supposed to be off work today, but it doesn't look like that is going to happen. I have already had 10 emails this morning. Darn it...
God does work in mysterious ways. Yang needs my prayers right now. I am sure he is feeling like Job. I will do my best to be a friend to him even though he has not been the best kind of friend to me.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Yes, I said that many times in my prayers, talks and rants with God -- "You call that an answer?" DOH! Boy, do I have chutzpah! It is difficult for us to see God's answers or to accept God's answers when we keep getting in the way of what God is trying to do! I know I get in his way a lot when I try to accelerate some thing that I think is supposed to happen! DOH!
The bottom line: It is OK to question God in honest and open discussion. We need to move on from the questioning to the trusting and believing. I know. I have been there a lot the past few months! Trust. Believe. Have faith. It is so much easier than doing things on your own or driving yourself crazy with silly scenarios of what could happen! Not that I actually do that or anything... ;-p
Lord, I want to have faith. I want to trust in your plan. It is the best thing for me!
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
I have abstained from eating popcorn for over a week now. Woohooo! I have been to four movies and a favorite pizza place with a popcorn popper. Nary a kernel! I can do this!
My weight is about the same. Blah, blah, blah.
I will start riding my recumbent bike this week. I have been walking a few times per week. I am still taking it easy until my eye heals.
Other Stuff
I have two doctor appointments today. Sinus infection again and my eye doctor checkup. I will post how those go.
I was supposed to be off work today, but it doesn't look like that is going to happen. I have already had 10 emails this morning. Darn it...
God does work in mysterious ways. Yang needs my prayers right now. I am sure he is feeling like Job. I will do my best to be a friend to him even though he has not been the best kind of friend to me.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
How rich are you?
Our Daily Bread
I think about passages of scripture like this a lot. I am truly blessed with many earthly things, though I am not "rich" like the folks in the devotional. Yet I am able to share what I have with the needy and support my church. Before this sounds like I am blowing my own horn and completely ditching the humility lessons God has been teaching me, I need to say that I have two problems.
First, I could do more. We could all give more. We could all sacrifice a little to give to those who are less fortunate. I struggle with where I draw the line between extravagant living and giving enough. Hmmm.
Second, I don't always give with the right intentions. I have been trying to give with God's agape kind of love, whether it is giving money or my time or doing things for friends. It is difficult to give without expecting something in return, if nothing more than a little consideration for your feelings or a kind act in return. It is human nature. There is the struggle. I want to have God's nature.
The big lesson I learned (again) last week is: just because you love a porcupine or a lion or whatever unsafe thing you can think of, doesn't mean you have to hold it close. There have been some folks in my life that I held close that hurt me often. I overlooked it because of my Christian beliefs. That is not right, not healthy and certainly not Christian. I understand now how to forgive and love without sacrificing my own health in the process. Are there things like that in your life?
Lord, thank you for more wisdom and faith. I want to trust you even more...
Training Tuesday
The chapter this week from Embracing an Adult Faith was about Jesus, or who I think Jesus is. Here are a couple of the questions and my responses.
Why does Jesus matter to you (if he does)?
Jesus matters to me for several reasons. I believe he was the Son of God made into man. He understands what it means to be human on this earth. I believe he was a wonderful teacher and example for us for a different way to live our lives.
What does Easter mean to you?
I believe Jesus sacrificed himself for our sins and then rose again to share victory over sin and death.
How has relationship with the post-Easter Jesus changed your life?
It has given me a sense of peace and purpose in my life. I feel like I am living beyond myself. Cool! My life is not ordinary!
Other Stuff
Work continues to be busy as I try to figure out some major issues. Whew! I hope to take Wednesday off for some comp time. Whew! hehehe
My eyes are doing OK. Go back to the doctor tomorrow. I may schedule an appointment with my family doctor. I don't think my sinus infection is getting any better. Heavy sigh...
Having trouble adjusting to DST? I am! hehehe
Trying to decide where my next trip will be. Some place warm? Some place amazing? I have no clue. I need to schedule a trip with Southwest before the middle of May. I am looking at NYC for their car show. That could be an idea.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I think about passages of scripture like this a lot. I am truly blessed with many earthly things, though I am not "rich" like the folks in the devotional. Yet I am able to share what I have with the needy and support my church. Before this sounds like I am blowing my own horn and completely ditching the humility lessons God has been teaching me, I need to say that I have two problems.
First, I could do more. We could all give more. We could all sacrifice a little to give to those who are less fortunate. I struggle with where I draw the line between extravagant living and giving enough. Hmmm.
Second, I don't always give with the right intentions. I have been trying to give with God's agape kind of love, whether it is giving money or my time or doing things for friends. It is difficult to give without expecting something in return, if nothing more than a little consideration for your feelings or a kind act in return. It is human nature. There is the struggle. I want to have God's nature.
The big lesson I learned (again) last week is: just because you love a porcupine or a lion or whatever unsafe thing you can think of, doesn't mean you have to hold it close. There have been some folks in my life that I held close that hurt me often. I overlooked it because of my Christian beliefs. That is not right, not healthy and certainly not Christian. I understand now how to forgive and love without sacrificing my own health in the process. Are there things like that in your life?
Lord, thank you for more wisdom and faith. I want to trust you even more...
Training Tuesday
The chapter this week from Embracing an Adult Faith was about Jesus, or who I think Jesus is. Here are a couple of the questions and my responses.
Why does Jesus matter to you (if he does)?
Jesus matters to me for several reasons. I believe he was the Son of God made into man. He understands what it means to be human on this earth. I believe he was a wonderful teacher and example for us for a different way to live our lives.
What does Easter mean to you?
I believe Jesus sacrificed himself for our sins and then rose again to share victory over sin and death.
How has relationship with the post-Easter Jesus changed your life?
It has given me a sense of peace and purpose in my life. I feel like I am living beyond myself. Cool! My life is not ordinary!
Other Stuff
Work continues to be busy as I try to figure out some major issues. Whew! I hope to take Wednesday off for some comp time. Whew! hehehe
My eyes are doing OK. Go back to the doctor tomorrow. I may schedule an appointment with my family doctor. I don't think my sinus infection is getting any better. Heavy sigh...
Having trouble adjusting to DST? I am! hehehe
Trying to decide where my next trip will be. Some place warm? Some place amazing? I have no clue. I need to schedule a trip with Southwest before the middle of May. I am looking at NYC for their car show. That could be an idea.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, March 14, 2011
Right between the eyes...
Our Daily Bread
God has blessed me so many times through the Our Daily Bread devotional. The devotional for today is another example. I needed to hear "yes it is OK to have questions". God may or may not answer the questions in the time frame we request.
The key is to not let the questions or doubts or troubling thoughts make you bitter and resentful to God or to others. God really does have a plan for us.
In my case, I feel that God is ridding my personality of the "dross" that has kept me from having the kind of romantic relationship that is a desire of my heart. I have focused on wanting the wrong men the past 3.5 years, wasting a lot of time and resources, instead of waiting on the Lord. God did teach me a lot through those experiences. I am thankful for that. God can use many situations to teach us stuff.
Do you have questions? Seeking answers? Having doubts? I hope the poem at the end of the devotional means as much to you as it did to me:
What God is doing you may not know now,
But someday you’ll understand why;
Questions that taunt you and trouble your mind
Will one day have heaven’s reply. —Hess
Movie Monday
Battle: Los Angeles was my movie choice of the weekend. I planned to see more movies, but I had to work most of the weekend. I will make up for that this week. ;-)
Battle: Los Angeles is an 'Independence Day" kind of movie where aliens attack our world and mankind overcomes. The action was pretty cool. The aliens and ships were very cool as well. I was most impressed by the Marines (the actors playing Marines). I know it was only a movie, but I now have a new appreciation for the military's commitment to civilians and to protecting our county (world). It had to be "go to the bathroom in my pants" kind of scary to face the aliens (or to face Iran or Afghanistan). I imagine that real world Marines are even more brave than the ones in the movie. That is amazing. Please see the Other Stuff section of this posting for the inspiring idea I had after the movie.
I give this movie 2 bear paws. It is worth seeing on the big screen. Lots of things go boom. I like that. ;-)
Other Stuff
I had an interesting idea after watching the movie on Friday night. Remember how the Supreme Court upheld the Constitutional right of protesters to gather at the funeral of a military person? I had the idea to do the same thing I saw in Columbus, Ohio at my first Pride Parade. Some of the local churches surrounded the "haters" who were chanting hate messages towards the gays and lesbians gathered at the event. The churches surrounded them and chanted louder and had bigger signs proclaiming how God loves us and wants us to be his children. Wouldn't it be cool for some patriotic folks to surround the graveside protesters and thank the families who lost loved ones for their sacrifice. Thank the families for a brave son or daughter than allowed us to keep our freedom! I will have to check into this.
My eyes are doing. OK. Whew.... Still taking things easy.
I worked a lot this weekend. Still trying to get some things fixed at work. Whew...
I also learned an important lesson about wearing rubber gloves when working with oven cleaner... ;-(
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
God has blessed me so many times through the Our Daily Bread devotional. The devotional for today is another example. I needed to hear "yes it is OK to have questions". God may or may not answer the questions in the time frame we request.
The key is to not let the questions or doubts or troubling thoughts make you bitter and resentful to God or to others. God really does have a plan for us.
In my case, I feel that God is ridding my personality of the "dross" that has kept me from having the kind of romantic relationship that is a desire of my heart. I have focused on wanting the wrong men the past 3.5 years, wasting a lot of time and resources, instead of waiting on the Lord. God did teach me a lot through those experiences. I am thankful for that. God can use many situations to teach us stuff.
Do you have questions? Seeking answers? Having doubts? I hope the poem at the end of the devotional means as much to you as it did to me:
What God is doing you may not know now,
But someday you’ll understand why;
Questions that taunt you and trouble your mind
Will one day have heaven’s reply. —Hess
Lord, I have no idea what you are up to. Please help me trust more and question you less. Let not my mind and heart be troubled with unsurety.
Movie Monday
Battle: Los Angeles was my movie choice of the weekend. I planned to see more movies, but I had to work most of the weekend. I will make up for that this week. ;-)
Battle: Los Angeles is an 'Independence Day" kind of movie where aliens attack our world and mankind overcomes. The action was pretty cool. The aliens and ships were very cool as well. I was most impressed by the Marines (the actors playing Marines). I know it was only a movie, but I now have a new appreciation for the military's commitment to civilians and to protecting our county (world). It had to be "go to the bathroom in my pants" kind of scary to face the aliens (or to face Iran or Afghanistan). I imagine that real world Marines are even more brave than the ones in the movie. That is amazing. Please see the Other Stuff section of this posting for the inspiring idea I had after the movie.
I give this movie 2 bear paws. It is worth seeing on the big screen. Lots of things go boom. I like that. ;-)
Other Stuff
I had an interesting idea after watching the movie on Friday night. Remember how the Supreme Court upheld the Constitutional right of protesters to gather at the funeral of a military person? I had the idea to do the same thing I saw in Columbus, Ohio at my first Pride Parade. Some of the local churches surrounded the "haters" who were chanting hate messages towards the gays and lesbians gathered at the event. The churches surrounded them and chanted louder and had bigger signs proclaiming how God loves us and wants us to be his children. Wouldn't it be cool for some patriotic folks to surround the graveside protesters and thank the families who lost loved ones for their sacrifice. Thank the families for a brave son or daughter than allowed us to keep our freedom! I will have to check into this.
My eyes are doing. OK. Whew.... Still taking things easy.
I worked a lot this weekend. Still trying to get some things fixed at work. Whew...
I also learned an important lesson about wearing rubber gloves when working with oven cleaner... ;-(
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Don't think I would get very far....
Our Daily Bread
Today's devotional mentions an experimental car that runs on vegetable oil and chocolate. Those who know me understand that I would not get very far because I couldn't stop eating the fuel! hehehe I wonder if dark chocolate is healthier for this race car than milk chocolate? hehehe
The point of the devotional is that we all need spiritual "fuel" to keep going in our relationship with God. That fuel is the Word of God, the Bible. I have to admit that the past few months have been great for me when it comes to getting spiritual fuel -- the Disciple 2 class. I need to keep up the readings and study until the next one starts in the Fall.
I also loved the story of Elijah. I forgot about his post-miracle depression! ;-) We all need to take time to refuel after a high or a low.
So how is your fuel supply? Are you eating junk food or are feasting on the Word of God each day?
Lord, thank you for fueling my life with your love and your Word.
Psalm Sunday
Here is another psalm where the write offers up a lament. I thought about this a little bit, then realized that God honors an honest, contrite heart. How better to humble oneself than to bear all in a lament? I don't feel so bad for the lamenting I have been doing lately! God is trying to get me to be more open and honest with him. To actually say the words even though he knows my heart. God is opening me up so I can know and follow the desires of my heart. Does that make sense at all?
Lastly, this psalm seems to have some "karma" theology in it. If we do the right things, we are blessed. The wicked are punished. I mentioned in a class the other night that I am not sure that God really punishes us today. I think he does worse -- he leaves us to our devices and the results of our bad decisions are even worse punishment! hehehe
Psalm 5
For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.
1 Listen to my words, LORD,
consider my lament.
2 Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly.
4 For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness;
with you, evil people are not welcome.
5 The arrogant cannot stand
in your presence.
You hate all who do wrong;
6 you destroy those who tell lies.
The bloodthirsty and deceitful
you, LORD, detest.
7 But I, by your great love,
can come into your house;
in reverence I bow down
toward your holy temple.
8 Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness
because of my enemies—
make your way straight before me.
9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;
their heart is filled with malice.
Their throat is an open grave;
with their tongues they tell lies.
10 Declare them guilty, O God!
Let their intrigues be their downfall.
Banish them for their many sins,
for they have rebelled against you.
11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
12 Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Other Stuff
Working a lot this weekend. It is a good thing. It is helping take my mind off some things. I really appreciate spending time with my hero yesterday when I wasn't working. She fixed lunch and we watched the OSU basketball game. I had to go back to work before the game was over, but we found time to have ice cream at Jenis after work. ;-) Thank you again, my hero! I appreciate it very much!
I don't know if I mentioned that I got the little token in the king cake at CUB's Mardi Gras party last week. I am waiting patiently for the good luck to kick in. Tapping my foot patiently. Waiting. Patiently. hehehe Been buying lottery tickets. Patiently waiting. Tapping... ;-)
My eyes are doing OK. I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my next checkup.
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Today's devotional mentions an experimental car that runs on vegetable oil and chocolate. Those who know me understand that I would not get very far because I couldn't stop eating the fuel! hehehe I wonder if dark chocolate is healthier for this race car than milk chocolate? hehehe
The point of the devotional is that we all need spiritual "fuel" to keep going in our relationship with God. That fuel is the Word of God, the Bible. I have to admit that the past few months have been great for me when it comes to getting spiritual fuel -- the Disciple 2 class. I need to keep up the readings and study until the next one starts in the Fall.
I also loved the story of Elijah. I forgot about his post-miracle depression! ;-) We all need to take time to refuel after a high or a low.
So how is your fuel supply? Are you eating junk food or are feasting on the Word of God each day?
Lord, thank you for fueling my life with your love and your Word.
Psalm Sunday
Here is another psalm where the write offers up a lament. I thought about this a little bit, then realized that God honors an honest, contrite heart. How better to humble oneself than to bear all in a lament? I don't feel so bad for the lamenting I have been doing lately! God is trying to get me to be more open and honest with him. To actually say the words even though he knows my heart. God is opening me up so I can know and follow the desires of my heart. Does that make sense at all?
Lastly, this psalm seems to have some "karma" theology in it. If we do the right things, we are blessed. The wicked are punished. I mentioned in a class the other night that I am not sure that God really punishes us today. I think he does worse -- he leaves us to our devices and the results of our bad decisions are even worse punishment! hehehe
Psalm 5
For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.
1 Listen to my words, LORD,
consider my lament.
2 Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly.
4 For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness;
with you, evil people are not welcome.
5 The arrogant cannot stand
in your presence.
You hate all who do wrong;
6 you destroy those who tell lies.
The bloodthirsty and deceitful
you, LORD, detest.
7 But I, by your great love,
can come into your house;
in reverence I bow down
toward your holy temple.
8 Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness
because of my enemies—
make your way straight before me.
9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;
their heart is filled with malice.
Their throat is an open grave;
with their tongues they tell lies.
10 Declare them guilty, O God!
Let their intrigues be their downfall.
Banish them for their many sins,
for they have rebelled against you.
11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
12 Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Other Stuff
Working a lot this weekend. It is a good thing. It is helping take my mind off some things. I really appreciate spending time with my hero yesterday when I wasn't working. She fixed lunch and we watched the OSU basketball game. I had to go back to work before the game was over, but we found time to have ice cream at Jenis after work. ;-) Thank you again, my hero! I appreciate it very much!
I don't know if I mentioned that I got the little token in the king cake at CUB's Mardi Gras party last week. I am waiting patiently for the good luck to kick in. Tapping my foot patiently. Waiting. Patiently. hehehe Been buying lottery tickets. Patiently waiting. Tapping... ;-)
My eyes are doing OK. I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my next checkup.
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, March 12, 2011
I can see clearly now...
Sorry I missed my post yesterday! It has been a wild week!
Our Daily Bread
Seeing things clearly has been a challenge for me the past few years! I am not just talking about my eyes! hehehe When you really 'look" at something, you find the object in your range of vision and then focus on it to get the clearest view. This could be a person, a basketball game (Go Bucks!), a billboard, whatever you want to truly "see".
Our relationship with God and with others is the same way. A special friend helped me realize something about myself this week after some bitter disappointments in some friendships. "Duane, you see the good or best in people and you spend way too much time, energy and money helping them develop that good or best state regardless if they realize they have the potential or even want to grow in that way". Wow! How true! I have some folks that I treat like they have already reached their potential instead of protecting myself from the way they are now. I have gotten hurt over and over again because of this simplistic view of friendships and relationships. As another friend counseled "Proceed with caution!" hehehe I learned that I will love the best I can and still protect myself from folks who don't practice what they preach! hehehe Not judging. Don't hate!
In our relationship with God, we can do the same thing. We can see things very differently than what God does. Through his Word and through our prayers, we can get a clearer vision of who God is and who he can be in our lives if we let him. For me, the isolation I felt this week was overwhelmed by the many friends who came out of the woodwork to tell me how special I was to them. How blessed am I? The isolation I felt helped me focus on God and see things more clearly.
Lord, thank you for helping me see things more clearly. I will trust you and take the next step even though I have no idea where the road is going.
Simply Saturday
I was supposed to spend the weekend with Fly bear, but that didn't work out the way I planned (see the personal relationship paragraph above...). I went to see a movie last night. instead I will review it on Monday. I have to work this weekend. Lots of fun. I will see movies when I am not working. It is pretty sad when the highlight of your weekend is the iOS4.3 update on our iPhone and iPad!
Well, I did NOT buy a new iPad. I want one, but will be thrilled to use the one I received as a special gift last year. I use my iPad for web browser at home or at Panera and as an eReader. Very cool.
My big thoughts this week are too deep and too fresh in my mind to write about today. I can say that God and others are teaching me a lot about myself. Some things are pretty, some not so pretty. At times, I felt like the afflicted person from Psalm 4. At other times, I felt like the most special person in the world due to the love shown to me by my friends. I cannot complain about things, but I find a way to look at the negative side when I get worn down like I am now. I always recover. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted as I am pushing aside some bad habits and poor decisions. I thank God for helping me heal.
OH, and I gave up popcorn for Lent. Yikes!
Hang in there, my friends. I WILL be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Our Daily Bread
Seeing things clearly has been a challenge for me the past few years! I am not just talking about my eyes! hehehe When you really 'look" at something, you find the object in your range of vision and then focus on it to get the clearest view. This could be a person, a basketball game (Go Bucks!), a billboard, whatever you want to truly "see".
Our relationship with God and with others is the same way. A special friend helped me realize something about myself this week after some bitter disappointments in some friendships. "Duane, you see the good or best in people and you spend way too much time, energy and money helping them develop that good or best state regardless if they realize they have the potential or even want to grow in that way". Wow! How true! I have some folks that I treat like they have already reached their potential instead of protecting myself from the way they are now. I have gotten hurt over and over again because of this simplistic view of friendships and relationships. As another friend counseled "Proceed with caution!" hehehe I learned that I will love the best I can and still protect myself from folks who don't practice what they preach! hehehe Not judging. Don't hate!
In our relationship with God, we can do the same thing. We can see things very differently than what God does. Through his Word and through our prayers, we can get a clearer vision of who God is and who he can be in our lives if we let him. For me, the isolation I felt this week was overwhelmed by the many friends who came out of the woodwork to tell me how special I was to them. How blessed am I? The isolation I felt helped me focus on God and see things more clearly.
Lord, thank you for helping me see things more clearly. I will trust you and take the next step even though I have no idea where the road is going.
Simply Saturday
I was supposed to spend the weekend with Fly bear, but that didn't work out the way I planned (see the personal relationship paragraph above...). I went to see a movie last night. instead I will review it on Monday. I have to work this weekend. Lots of fun. I will see movies when I am not working. It is pretty sad when the highlight of your weekend is the iOS4.3 update on our iPhone and iPad!
Well, I did NOT buy a new iPad. I want one, but will be thrilled to use the one I received as a special gift last year. I use my iPad for web browser at home or at Panera and as an eReader. Very cool.
My big thoughts this week are too deep and too fresh in my mind to write about today. I can say that God and others are teaching me a lot about myself. Some things are pretty, some not so pretty. At times, I felt like the afflicted person from Psalm 4. At other times, I felt like the most special person in the world due to the love shown to me by my friends. I cannot complain about things, but I find a way to look at the negative side when I get worn down like I am now. I always recover. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted as I am pushing aside some bad habits and poor decisions. I thank God for helping me heal.
OH, and I gave up popcorn for Lent. Yikes!
Hang in there, my friends. I WILL be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Our Daily Bread
The devotional is based on Psalm 102, the psalm for an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord. We have all been there, haven't we? ;-)
The question I have about the devotional is this: when we lament, are we mistrusting the Lord or not having enough faith? I struggle with this. I have written about the strong, confident joy that God is working in me. Where does that fit in to the equation? Can I have a strong, confident joy and still lament?
Frankly, lamenting is the place I am in right now. The events of the past few months have gotten to me. Even though many things are going very well, including the recovery from my eye surgery, I am worn down. I have grown weak. I had to promise a friend at church last night that I would get out of this funk! Soon! Now! hehehe
Please don't take this next comment as rationalizing my current state of mind. I feel this is a stage of development in my Christian life. How many of us really "lament"? How many of us really feel comfortable pouring out our hearts to God in such an intimate matter? We usually only do something like this with our closest of friends. Some people don't have close friends to share things with.
Part of my lament prayer is "I don't know what to do!" Imagine me saying that as pitifully as possible. hehehe The truth is I DO know what to do. Love God. Love others as myself. Trust God for everything. Take the next step on the road in front of me regardless of where it goes. What does it matter as long as God is leading?
Yes, God does listen and answer our laments. He has been answering mine this week with the calls, texts and emails of special friends. What better gift can I ask for?
Bye, bye funk.
Lord, thank you for hearing my prayers. I want to trust you more.
Technology Thursday
Most of the technology news this week has been about two topics: iPad2 and cloud computing.
I wrote about the iPad2 last week. It goes on sale tomorrow. I will not buy one... I will not buy one... hehehe
What is cloud computing, you might ask? Cloud computing is where the applications or computer storage is somewhere off your local computer or network. For example, IBM offers several of their products "in the cloud" meaning they host the application, like email, somewhere out there on the Internet. Your employees access the application through your network, VPN or Internet. This approach is supposed to reduce the overall cost of ownership for commonly used applications. The interesting thing is that some companies already offer cloud-based application for consumers like you and me. Have you bought a PC or laptop that has some Internet-based backup storage as part of the package? That is cloud-based! We will see more and more of this approach. Look for this from iTunes and Google Music sometime this year. That will be very interesting!
Other Stuff
I am not sure what is going on with my eyes this week. The left eye has been healing very well and sight has improved. I am having some random pains in the eye. Not sure what that is about. My right eye started acting up on Tuesday. I have been seeing better with the left eye than the right. Oh boy... I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my next checkup.
Work has been a challenge this week. I am not doing a great job of being nice. This is bad. I will do better today.
Attending a surprise birthday party for Fly bear's grandmother tonight. Should be a nice evening.
I planned a trip to St Louis for the middle of April. I was able to use a free flight on US Airways. Woohooo! I need to use a free flight on Southwest in the next two months. Where else can I go? ;-)
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional is based on Psalm 102, the psalm for an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord. We have all been there, haven't we? ;-)
The question I have about the devotional is this: when we lament, are we mistrusting the Lord or not having enough faith? I struggle with this. I have written about the strong, confident joy that God is working in me. Where does that fit in to the equation? Can I have a strong, confident joy and still lament?
Frankly, lamenting is the place I am in right now. The events of the past few months have gotten to me. Even though many things are going very well, including the recovery from my eye surgery, I am worn down. I have grown weak. I had to promise a friend at church last night that I would get out of this funk! Soon! Now! hehehe
Please don't take this next comment as rationalizing my current state of mind. I feel this is a stage of development in my Christian life. How many of us really "lament"? How many of us really feel comfortable pouring out our hearts to God in such an intimate matter? We usually only do something like this with our closest of friends. Some people don't have close friends to share things with.
Part of my lament prayer is "I don't know what to do!" Imagine me saying that as pitifully as possible. hehehe The truth is I DO know what to do. Love God. Love others as myself. Trust God for everything. Take the next step on the road in front of me regardless of where it goes. What does it matter as long as God is leading?
Yes, God does listen and answer our laments. He has been answering mine this week with the calls, texts and emails of special friends. What better gift can I ask for?
Bye, bye funk.
Lord, thank you for hearing my prayers. I want to trust you more.
Technology Thursday
Most of the technology news this week has been about two topics: iPad2 and cloud computing.
I wrote about the iPad2 last week. It goes on sale tomorrow. I will not buy one... I will not buy one... hehehe
What is cloud computing, you might ask? Cloud computing is where the applications or computer storage is somewhere off your local computer or network. For example, IBM offers several of their products "in the cloud" meaning they host the application, like email, somewhere out there on the Internet. Your employees access the application through your network, VPN or Internet. This approach is supposed to reduce the overall cost of ownership for commonly used applications. The interesting thing is that some companies already offer cloud-based application for consumers like you and me. Have you bought a PC or laptop that has some Internet-based backup storage as part of the package? That is cloud-based! We will see more and more of this approach. Look for this from iTunes and Google Music sometime this year. That will be very interesting!
Other Stuff
I am not sure what is going on with my eyes this week. The left eye has been healing very well and sight has improved. I am having some random pains in the eye. Not sure what that is about. My right eye started acting up on Tuesday. I have been seeing better with the left eye than the right. Oh boy... I go back to the doctor on Wednesday for my next checkup.
Work has been a challenge this week. I am not doing a great job of being nice. This is bad. I will do better today.
Attending a surprise birthday party for Fly bear's grandmother tonight. Should be a nice evening.
I planned a trip to St Louis for the middle of April. I was able to use a free flight on US Airways. Woohooo! I need to use a free flight on Southwest in the next two months. Where else can I go? ;-)
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Am I not like Israel?
Our Daily Bread
I don't know about you, but I have learned to appreciate the Old Testament writings about Israel's relationship with God. Why? Because so much of their story is basic human nature! They don't trust God. God lets them wander. Israel repents. God lets them in the promised land. Repeat all through the Old Testament!
I am sorry, but this sounds too much like my life! How about you? ;-)
The last paragraph of the devotional is where I am in my life this moment:
"In life, it sometimes seems as if we are wandering in circles. We feel lost. We want to ask God, “Are we there yet? How much longer?” At such times, it helps to remember that the journey, not just the destination, is important to God. He uses it to humble us, test us, and show us what is in our hearts."
Why do I left my life be like the movie 50 First Dates? I am like the Drew Barrymore character that doesn't remember the first 49 dates! I have actually learned a little about this. I told a close friend that I HAD to go through an unpleasant experience recently because it was the only way that God was going to get through me. Stubborn and stick-necked Duane, just like Israel? DOH!
Lord, I want to walk the road ahead of me, not continue to walk in circles in this silly wilderness!
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
I am exercising more. I am binging less, though I could still eat better. Eat more veggies and fish. Eat less fat and carbs. I ate at a vegan restaurant last week! Wow! hehehe It wasn't too bad.
I am down about 5 pounds or so from my start weight. I will exercise more after my left eye heals. I have been walking. I want to start riding my recumbent bike regularly. I can do this! ;-)
Other Stuff
My left eye is going better each day. I hope I am not getting a sinus infection. I had one in January. Heavy sigh... I am trying to rest and rinse out my sinuses twice per day. I also use a cool air humidifier at night. Whew!
Work has been a challenge for me this week. I am feeling the weight of all the things that have happened to me the past two months. I haven't been acting like myself. I am trying to be steady, but not doing a great job of it. I will do better.
Hang in there, my friends! I WILL be upbeat and steady. That IS what I do!
I don't know about you, but I have learned to appreciate the Old Testament writings about Israel's relationship with God. Why? Because so much of their story is basic human nature! They don't trust God. God lets them wander. Israel repents. God lets them in the promised land. Repeat all through the Old Testament!
I am sorry, but this sounds too much like my life! How about you? ;-)
The last paragraph of the devotional is where I am in my life this moment:
"In life, it sometimes seems as if we are wandering in circles. We feel lost. We want to ask God, “Are we there yet? How much longer?” At such times, it helps to remember that the journey, not just the destination, is important to God. He uses it to humble us, test us, and show us what is in our hearts."
Why do I left my life be like the movie 50 First Dates? I am like the Drew Barrymore character that doesn't remember the first 49 dates! I have actually learned a little about this. I told a close friend that I HAD to go through an unpleasant experience recently because it was the only way that God was going to get through me. Stubborn and stick-necked Duane, just like Israel? DOH!
Lord, I want to walk the road ahead of me, not continue to walk in circles in this silly wilderness!
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
I am exercising more. I am binging less, though I could still eat better. Eat more veggies and fish. Eat less fat and carbs. I ate at a vegan restaurant last week! Wow! hehehe It wasn't too bad.
I am down about 5 pounds or so from my start weight. I will exercise more after my left eye heals. I have been walking. I want to start riding my recumbent bike regularly. I can do this! ;-)
Other Stuff
My left eye is going better each day. I hope I am not getting a sinus infection. I had one in January. Heavy sigh... I am trying to rest and rinse out my sinuses twice per day. I also use a cool air humidifier at night. Whew!
Work has been a challenge for me this week. I am feeling the weight of all the things that have happened to me the past two months. I haven't been acting like myself. I am trying to be steady, but not doing a great job of it. I will do better.
Hang in there, my friends! I WILL be upbeat and steady. That IS what I do!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Got bread?
Our Daily Bread
I love the story of the five loaves and two fishes. When it comes to the seemingly impossible stories in the Bible, I simply believe. Some of my friends think I am silly for accepting such things as truth. Some people ask "How could this happen?" or "Does this really make sense in today's world?" I have a simple answer. "Why not?". Why can't I believe that my God (also our God) can't do these things? Why can't I believe in the awesomeness of his power when I have seen it at work in my own life? I am pretty needy sometimes. ;-( I want some miracles! hehehe
When things just don't make sense in your life, consider asking "Why not?" Why can't or wouldn't God act in your life if you let him? No, it may not mean making your job easier. It may mean helping you get a better attitude or more strength to handle things better (that is my case). Why can't God work in your personal relationships to fulfill you needs and the desires of your heart? God only knows. He is there for you.
I have felt abandoned a lot over the weekend. The reason I felt God was so far away was that I moved away from him. It is sort of like the old couple in the car one day. While the husband was driving, the wife said "We don't sit next to each other in the car like we used to..." The husband replied "I haven't moved!" hehehe God hasn't "moved" away from us. He wants closeness with his children.
Lord, I want to move back towards you and the closeness that we share. Thank you!
Teaching Tuesday
Embracing an Adult Faith by Marcus Borg is the study guide we are using for the Progressive Christianity small group on Monday nights. Here are some excerpts from the guide with my answers for the first lesson. You might try answering the questions yourself! ;-)
What words best help you express the reality of God in your life?
Ever present, friend, Confidant, Almighty God, Intercessor, My strength, My hope.
What hymns, prayers and other writings express most accurately your experience with God?
Thomas Merton prayers. "Be thou my vision" hymn. "Rock Solid" by Russ Taff. "Praise the Lord" by The Imperials.
What riches grow out of your relationship with God at this time in your life?
God lead me to develop a quiet, confident joy in my life. It fuels the rest of the growth God calls me towards.
Other Stuff
My left eye is doing well. Praise God! Strangely enough, my right eye was acting up a little yesterday. I am not sure what is up with that. I will see how things go today.
I arrived at church early last night to have a prayer session on the altar. It was a good thing.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I love the story of the five loaves and two fishes. When it comes to the seemingly impossible stories in the Bible, I simply believe. Some of my friends think I am silly for accepting such things as truth. Some people ask "How could this happen?" or "Does this really make sense in today's world?" I have a simple answer. "Why not?". Why can't I believe that my God (also our God) can't do these things? Why can't I believe in the awesomeness of his power when I have seen it at work in my own life? I am pretty needy sometimes. ;-( I want some miracles! hehehe
When things just don't make sense in your life, consider asking "Why not?" Why can't or wouldn't God act in your life if you let him? No, it may not mean making your job easier. It may mean helping you get a better attitude or more strength to handle things better (that is my case). Why can't God work in your personal relationships to fulfill you needs and the desires of your heart? God only knows. He is there for you.
I have felt abandoned a lot over the weekend. The reason I felt God was so far away was that I moved away from him. It is sort of like the old couple in the car one day. While the husband was driving, the wife said "We don't sit next to each other in the car like we used to..." The husband replied "I haven't moved!" hehehe God hasn't "moved" away from us. He wants closeness with his children.
Lord, I want to move back towards you and the closeness that we share. Thank you!
Teaching Tuesday
Embracing an Adult Faith by Marcus Borg is the study guide we are using for the Progressive Christianity small group on Monday nights. Here are some excerpts from the guide with my answers for the first lesson. You might try answering the questions yourself! ;-)
What words best help you express the reality of God in your life?
Ever present, friend, Confidant, Almighty God, Intercessor, My strength, My hope.
What hymns, prayers and other writings express most accurately your experience with God?
Thomas Merton prayers. "Be thou my vision" hymn. "Rock Solid" by Russ Taff. "Praise the Lord" by The Imperials.
What riches grow out of your relationship with God at this time in your life?
God lead me to develop a quiet, confident joy in my life. It fuels the rest of the growth God calls me towards.
Other Stuff
My left eye is doing well. Praise God! Strangely enough, my right eye was acting up a little yesterday. I am not sure what is up with that. I will see how things go today.
I arrived at church early last night to have a prayer session on the altar. It was a good thing.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, March 7, 2011
How can we really forget ourselves?
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today presented a small conflict to me at first. How can we really forget ourselves if we are supposed to treat others like we want to be treated? Don't we have to know how we want to be treated before we can treat others the same way? Am I missing something?
Well, yes I am! hehehe The example in the devotional finally struck me -- listening to a friend who needs to talk out a problem. Have you been in this scenario (like me)? You are sort of listening, sort of checking your watch because Glee comes on in thirty minutes and you forgot to set the DVR, and then it hits you. You have no idea what the friend is talking about when he asks your opinion or advice? Yikes! DOH! You can't really say "Uh, excuse me, could you repeat what you just said?" Oh no!!! I can't imagine having a god like that. A god that sort of pays attention, but not really catching the important parts of my life!
Lord, I want to be a better friend. A friend that listens without putting myself first in the conversation!
Movie Monday
I went to see The King's Speech last week. Wow! I thought it deserved the Best Picture Oscar award for sure! I liked the story. I loved the acting. I loved the way it was put together. Very nice. The only odd thing to me was all the actors from the Harry Potter movies that showed up in this movie! hehehe It was a little distracting to me! hehehe
I give this movie 4 bear paws. Very impressive.
Other Stuff
My left eye is doing MUCH better this weekend! Woohoooo! I was able to read some license plate numbers while driving this weekend. I am very thankful. It will take another month or two for it to completely heal.
Fly bear felt a lot better Sunday afternoon. We went to lunch after church and had a nice afternoon of talking and hanging out. I worked on cleaning my house throughout the day. It needed some cleaning and dusting!
I have the second installation of my small group class tonight. I will write about it in my Tuesday blog entry.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today presented a small conflict to me at first. How can we really forget ourselves if we are supposed to treat others like we want to be treated? Don't we have to know how we want to be treated before we can treat others the same way? Am I missing something?
Well, yes I am! hehehe The example in the devotional finally struck me -- listening to a friend who needs to talk out a problem. Have you been in this scenario (like me)? You are sort of listening, sort of checking your watch because Glee comes on in thirty minutes and you forgot to set the DVR, and then it hits you. You have no idea what the friend is talking about when he asks your opinion or advice? Yikes! DOH! You can't really say "Uh, excuse me, could you repeat what you just said?" Oh no!!! I can't imagine having a god like that. A god that sort of pays attention, but not really catching the important parts of my life!
Lord, I want to be a better friend. A friend that listens without putting myself first in the conversation!
Movie Monday
I went to see The King's Speech last week. Wow! I thought it deserved the Best Picture Oscar award for sure! I liked the story. I loved the acting. I loved the way it was put together. Very nice. The only odd thing to me was all the actors from the Harry Potter movies that showed up in this movie! hehehe It was a little distracting to me! hehehe
I give this movie 4 bear paws. Very impressive.
Other Stuff
My left eye is doing MUCH better this weekend! Woohoooo! I was able to read some license plate numbers while driving this weekend. I am very thankful. It will take another month or two for it to completely heal.
Fly bear felt a lot better Sunday afternoon. We went to lunch after church and had a nice afternoon of talking and hanging out. I worked on cleaning my house throughout the day. It needed some cleaning and dusting!
I have the second installation of my small group class tonight. I will write about it in my Tuesday blog entry.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, March 6, 2011
What words do you use?
Our Daily Bread
As part of my new class at church, I had to list the words I used to embody God in my life. What words do you use? I will list them out on my Tuesday posting since I use that morning to blog about my current church study class.
As I read the devotional this morning, I couldn't help think how I don't recognize the majesty of God in every day life. In every plant. In every blue sky (though we haven't seen many of those in Columbus lately!). In every breath I take! I get so caught up in my own wants and worries and "problems" that I don't realize that God is here. He is with me. He is with you. He knows what is going on and cares regardless if we feel he is really hearing our prayers or not.
I know I forget. I forgot a lot the past two weeks when I was going through some relationship issues that I didn't understand. Didn't God lead us together? Is God paying attention to the current state of the relationship? What am I supposed to do? Why didn't God tell the other party what was going on? I finally figured out that God did tell him. He chose not to respond or accept what God asked. I understand how difficult that is. I am still asking the question "What do I do next?". The answer is obvious to me now: put God first and love others as I would want to be loved.
Will loving this man be difficult after the things that happened the past few weeks. Yes, it will. I remember how difficult I can be to love sometimes because of the way I act. God continues to love me and teach me things as I take the time to listen and be open to him. I will take the next step of faith even though I have no idea where it is going. I have no idea what will happen. Life is not ordinary when you live it in God. How cool is that?
Lord, I know it doesn't matter where the road ends up as long as you are leading...
Psalm Sunday
I find solace in reading the Psalms. Psalm 4 is no exception. Notice how the write links together trusting God and the results of trusting God. Peace. Rest. Wow.
Psalm 4
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
1 Answer me when I call to you,
my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
have mercy on me and hear my prayer.
2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame?
How long will you love delusions and seek false gods
3 Know that the LORD has set apart his faithful servant for himself;
the LORD hears when I call to him.
4 Tremble and do not sin;
when you are on your beds,
search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous
and trust in the LORD.
6 Many, LORD, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy
when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, LORD,
make me dwell in safety.
Other Stuff
My eye is doing better each day now as it continues to heal. I think I have a sinus infection so the pains in the left side of my face are from the sinus infection (I hope). I need to see the doctor about that this week. I took a decongestant this morning to relieve some of the pressure.
I am going to the late service at church. Illuminati, a small group of the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus, is singing at that service this morning. That will be nice.
I plan to spend the afternoon with Fly bear. He was feeling better last night when I talked to him.
I had a nice time at the Bears (CUB) Mardi Gras party. I got the prize in the Kings Cake. Woohoooo! It was nice seeing some old friends and making some new ones.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
As part of my new class at church, I had to list the words I used to embody God in my life. What words do you use? I will list them out on my Tuesday posting since I use that morning to blog about my current church study class.
As I read the devotional this morning, I couldn't help think how I don't recognize the majesty of God in every day life. In every plant. In every blue sky (though we haven't seen many of those in Columbus lately!). In every breath I take! I get so caught up in my own wants and worries and "problems" that I don't realize that God is here. He is with me. He is with you. He knows what is going on and cares regardless if we feel he is really hearing our prayers or not.
I know I forget. I forgot a lot the past two weeks when I was going through some relationship issues that I didn't understand. Didn't God lead us together? Is God paying attention to the current state of the relationship? What am I supposed to do? Why didn't God tell the other party what was going on? I finally figured out that God did tell him. He chose not to respond or accept what God asked. I understand how difficult that is. I am still asking the question "What do I do next?". The answer is obvious to me now: put God first and love others as I would want to be loved.
Will loving this man be difficult after the things that happened the past few weeks. Yes, it will. I remember how difficult I can be to love sometimes because of the way I act. God continues to love me and teach me things as I take the time to listen and be open to him. I will take the next step of faith even though I have no idea where it is going. I have no idea what will happen. Life is not ordinary when you live it in God. How cool is that?
Lord, I know it doesn't matter where the road ends up as long as you are leading...
Psalm Sunday
I find solace in reading the Psalms. Psalm 4 is no exception. Notice how the write links together trusting God and the results of trusting God. Peace. Rest. Wow.
Psalm 4
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
1 Answer me when I call to you,
my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
have mercy on me and hear my prayer.
2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame?
How long will you love delusions and seek false gods
3 Know that the LORD has set apart his faithful servant for himself;
the LORD hears when I call to him.
4 Tremble and do not sin;
when you are on your beds,
search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous
and trust in the LORD.
6 Many, LORD, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy
when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, LORD,
make me dwell in safety.
Other Stuff
My eye is doing better each day now as it continues to heal. I think I have a sinus infection so the pains in the left side of my face are from the sinus infection (I hope). I need to see the doctor about that this week. I took a decongestant this morning to relieve some of the pressure.
I am going to the late service at church. Illuminati, a small group of the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus, is singing at that service this morning. That will be nice.
I plan to spend the afternoon with Fly bear. He was feeling better last night when I talked to him.
I had a nice time at the Bears (CUB) Mardi Gras party. I got the prize in the Kings Cake. Woohoooo! It was nice seeing some old friends and making some new ones.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Am I worthy?
Our Daily Bread
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain! You are worthy to open the scroll!
Wow! I have never been a big fan of the book of Revelation. I find too many children of God focus on trying to understand all the mysteries of that book only to forget the two most important commandments! Why is that?
Jesus is worthy for us to lay down all of our sin and cares in front of him. I like the final quote from the devotional:
The Lamb who died to save us
is the Shepherd who lives to lead us.
Simply Saturday
I wrote a great description of the things I learned the past few weeks and then lost it by touching the wrong part of my iPad screen. Heavy sigh... I will write a small portion of that entry as my Simply Saturday entry. God taught me two very important lessons the past few weeks.
He taught me about putting him first in my life. I mean, really, really, first in my life. Two weeks ago God told me to attend the candelight service during the mens walk to Emmaus. I went on a date instead. The date didn't go as well as what I wanted. It was an odd evening. While studying my D2 lesson on Priorities, God asked me "why would I give you a special man if you are only going to put him ahead of me?" Whoa!!! I am such an idiot at times! I prayed for forgiveness and asked God to help me learn and put this lesson into practice.
Second, God taught me a question to ask whenever I am tempted to do something wrong or something "borderline inappropriate". You know what I mean. When a friend did something to offend me greatly, I asked him "was it worth losing my friendship over?" Whoa.... God taught me to apply that to a lot of things, especially relationships. I am a flirt. God taught me to ask myself this question when I am about to flirt or do more than flirt "is this worth losing over?" Or "is this worth losing John Doe's friendship over?" It sounds simple, but thinking about the ramifications of our actions means more than just thinking "Oh, yeah, I know it is wrong. I will do it anyway". Yikes!
BONUS LESSON! hehehe I learned something else last week. I am an insulin dependent diabetic. I tease some friends that are borderline insulin dependent with my insulin pen (click, click, click) to not be like me. Don't have the eating habits that I did to cause this problem. God said what if sin was like eating carbohydrates? What if I had to give myself an injection of the blood of Jesus each time I sinned? click, click, click.... Would I still sin as much? Would that simple thought of the sacrifice that Jesus made help me not sin as much? I will see. Click, click, click...
Other Stuff
Had dinner with my walking buddy and her husband last night. We had a great evening. I sat with a sick friend today. He was very sick. There wasn't much I could do except sit with him. I hope he feels better soon. I am attending a party tonight. Not sure what this will be like. Hmmmm.
Hang in there my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain! You are worthy to open the scroll!
Wow! I have never been a big fan of the book of Revelation. I find too many children of God focus on trying to understand all the mysteries of that book only to forget the two most important commandments! Why is that?
Jesus is worthy for us to lay down all of our sin and cares in front of him. I like the final quote from the devotional:
The Lamb who died to save us
is the Shepherd who lives to lead us.
So I ask the question in the title of this blog entry -- Am I worthy? Am I worthy to serve the God of all creation. To call on the name of his son, the Christ? To rely on the power of the Holy Spirit? I think not! Fortunately, God offers us his GRACE. Amazing grace, as the hymn says. Do you know his grace today? Do you live in his grace? Are you honored to be able to serve the God of the heavens and earth?
I have to admit that I don't always think that way. ;-(
Lord, I want to be a slave to you. I don't know any other way to live a full and meaningful life. A life that is more than ordinary.
Simply Saturday
I wrote a great description of the things I learned the past few weeks and then lost it by touching the wrong part of my iPad screen. Heavy sigh... I will write a small portion of that entry as my Simply Saturday entry. God taught me two very important lessons the past few weeks.
He taught me about putting him first in my life. I mean, really, really, first in my life. Two weeks ago God told me to attend the candelight service during the mens walk to Emmaus. I went on a date instead. The date didn't go as well as what I wanted. It was an odd evening. While studying my D2 lesson on Priorities, God asked me "why would I give you a special man if you are only going to put him ahead of me?" Whoa!!! I am such an idiot at times! I prayed for forgiveness and asked God to help me learn and put this lesson into practice.
Second, God taught me a question to ask whenever I am tempted to do something wrong or something "borderline inappropriate". You know what I mean. When a friend did something to offend me greatly, I asked him "was it worth losing my friendship over?" Whoa.... God taught me to apply that to a lot of things, especially relationships. I am a flirt. God taught me to ask myself this question when I am about to flirt or do more than flirt "is this worth losing
BONUS LESSON! hehehe I learned something else last week. I am an insulin dependent diabetic. I tease some friends that are borderline insulin dependent with my insulin pen (click, click, click) to not be like me. Don't have the eating habits that I did to cause this problem. God said what if sin was like eating carbohydrates? What if I had to give myself an injection of the blood of Jesus each time I sinned? click, click, click.... Would I still sin as much? Would that simple thought of the sacrifice that Jesus made help me not sin as much? I will see. Click, click, click...
Other Stuff
Had dinner with my walking buddy and her husband last night. We had a great evening. I sat with a sick friend today. He was very sick. There wasn't much I could do except sit with him. I hope he feels better soon. I am attending a party tonight. Not sure what this will be like. Hmmmm.
Hang in there my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, March 4, 2011
Not sure what happened.
I wrote a brilliant entry for my blog today and lost it somehow when I posted it with my iPad. Oh well.
I am doing ok. Will write more tomorrow. Please hang in there my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what i do...
I am doing ok. Will write more tomorrow. Please hang in there my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what i do...
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Who do you think I am?
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever asked a friend or foe that question "Who do you think I am?" Me either... hehehe It is usually "Who do you think YOU are?" hehehe Followed by a "Oh, no you did-unt!" Ha!
I think it would be a good exercise to ask your friends and family this question - Who do you think I am? What kind of answers do you think you would get? Getting feedback from friends and family can be horrifying. hehehe Probably the best experience I ever had was my Walk to Emmaus. My sponsor asked my friends and family for letters or emails of feedback and encouragement. It was astounding! I laughed, I cried!
Most importantly, how do you answer this question to yourself when you look into the mirror? The things you think about yourself are sometimes different than reality. What is your reality? Take a close look. Ask God for guidance on answering the question.
Lord, thank you helping me see myself for who I really am. I want to be more like you.
Technology Thursday
All I have to say about technology this week is... iPad 2!!! Woohooo! I LOVE my first generation iPad. The second generation is even better! I don't think I will be buying one anytime soon, but it has a lot of new features and lots of updates. Here is a summary of the announcement today in California.
Faster, dual core processor
1/3 thinner than the original iPad
Front and rear facing cameras, the rear camera capable of HD video.
A little bit lighter
Much better screen
Graphics are up to 9 times faster
A gyro built in (like the iPhone)
A cool new concept for a screen protector
Some apps that used to only work on the iPhone4 will work on the iPad2, like iMovie.
HD output to a flat panel TV
I love this device! I am a little surprised that there weren't a few other things added, like a removable media slot, however, iPad2 is very impressive.
Other Stuff
My appointment at the eye doctor went very well. There is no swelling. There is no post-surgery bleeding. Very cool. My vision is coming back in the left eye. It should be back to normal in a few more weeks. I have another follow up visit in two weeks. I am very thankful!
My last D2 class was great. Having dinner together before class was cool, too. I will start reading some Marcus Borg material next. Should be interesting.
Work was busy today. Whew... I will keep putting out fires as best as I can.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Have you ever asked a friend or foe that question "Who do you think I am?" Me either... hehehe It is usually "Who do you think YOU are?" hehehe Followed by a "Oh, no you did-unt!" Ha!
I think it would be a good exercise to ask your friends and family this question - Who do you think I am? What kind of answers do you think you would get? Getting feedback from friends and family can be horrifying. hehehe Probably the best experience I ever had was my Walk to Emmaus. My sponsor asked my friends and family for letters or emails of feedback and encouragement. It was astounding! I laughed, I cried!
Most importantly, how do you answer this question to yourself when you look into the mirror? The things you think about yourself are sometimes different than reality. What is your reality? Take a close look. Ask God for guidance on answering the question.
Lord, thank you helping me see myself for who I really am. I want to be more like you.
Technology Thursday
All I have to say about technology this week is... iPad 2!!! Woohooo! I LOVE my first generation iPad. The second generation is even better! I don't think I will be buying one anytime soon, but it has a lot of new features and lots of updates. Here is a summary of the announcement today in California.
Faster, dual core processor
1/3 thinner than the original iPad
Front and rear facing cameras, the rear camera capable of HD video.
A little bit lighter
Much better screen
Graphics are up to 9 times faster
A gyro built in (like the iPhone)
A cool new concept for a screen protector
Some apps that used to only work on the iPhone4 will work on the iPad2, like iMovie.
HD output to a flat panel TV
I love this device! I am a little surprised that there weren't a few other things added, like a removable media slot, however, iPad2 is very impressive.
Other Stuff
My appointment at the eye doctor went very well. There is no swelling. There is no post-surgery bleeding. Very cool. My vision is coming back in the left eye. It should be back to normal in a few more weeks. I have another follow up visit in two weeks. I am very thankful!
My last D2 class was great. Having dinner together before class was cool, too. I will start reading some Marcus Borg material next. Should be interesting.
Work was busy today. Whew... I will keep putting out fires as best as I can.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
What are you supposed to be doing?
Our Daily Bread
What are you supposed to be doing to give God glory? In the devotional, a former professional guitar player took up his instrument again after giving his life to God. He wanted to give God glory through his playing.
I think about this a lot since I am a singer. I haven't been singing much lately. I use the excuse that I don't see very well. It is hard for me to read music in the correct time frame to learn the music. Hog wash! What a stupid excuse! ;-p I need to do more. I will figure out what to do.
What are you supposed to be doing? Sing? Play? Talk? Draw? What are you supposed to be doing to bring glory to God?
Lord, I want to use my talents to give you glory.
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
What I did tell this week:
I ate a little better overall. I got right back on the wagon after not eating well a few days.
What I didn't do well:
I had at least two binge days. ;-( Not good. I will do better. I will figure out why I had these binge days.
Results:
I gained a few pounds back this week. It is hard to lose weight when you binge a few days and have to take a lot of insulin to keep your blood sugar down. Not a good habit to get into. I will do better.
Other Stuff
My eye is going better today. I have a doctor appointment today for a checkup.
I am happy to report that I wasn't horribly needy last night. I didn't ask God for a sign or for more faith. I rested in the fact that he is working in my situations. Thank you, God! I am doing my best to trust him to meet the desires of my heart.
God taught me so much about relationship stuff in the past few weeks. I am very thankful.
Tonight is the last D2 class. Time flies when you are having fun!
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
What are you supposed to be doing to give God glory? In the devotional, a former professional guitar player took up his instrument again after giving his life to God. He wanted to give God glory through his playing.
I think about this a lot since I am a singer. I haven't been singing much lately. I use the excuse that I don't see very well. It is hard for me to read music in the correct time frame to learn the music. Hog wash! What a stupid excuse! ;-p I need to do more. I will figure out what to do.
What are you supposed to be doing? Sing? Play? Talk? Draw? What are you supposed to be doing to bring glory to God?
Lord, I want to use my talents to give you glory.
Lifestyle Change Wednesday
What I did tell this week:
I ate a little better overall. I got right back on the wagon after not eating well a few days.
What I didn't do well:
I had at least two binge days. ;-( Not good. I will do better. I will figure out why I had these binge days.
Results:
I gained a few pounds back this week. It is hard to lose weight when you binge a few days and have to take a lot of insulin to keep your blood sugar down. Not a good habit to get into. I will do better.
Other Stuff
My eye is going better today. I have a doctor appointment today for a checkup.
I am happy to report that I wasn't horribly needy last night. I didn't ask God for a sign or for more faith. I rested in the fact that he is working in my situations. Thank you, God! I am doing my best to trust him to meet the desires of my heart.
God taught me so much about relationship stuff in the past few weeks. I am very thankful.
Tonight is the last D2 class. Time flies when you are having fun!
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Zero sum game...
Our Daily Bread
Zero sum game is a business term that means that someone has to win and someone has to lose. In other words, my gains are offset by your losses. In Christ, we don't need to worry about this game. God is faithful in every promise. The concept of winning and losing is from a heavenly prospective instead of an early one.
For example, there is a story of a man who lost his job. It was a difficult, stressful job, but it paid extremely well. The man constantly had health problems from the stress and rarely saw his family with small children. Finally, he collapsed one day. His doctor insisted that he quit the job. Was that a loss or a win? Most earthly measures would say he "lost" a high paying job. From a heavenly point of view, we would say he "won" because he kept his life and got reacquainted with his family.
What things in your life do you count as winning or losing? Do you feel like you "gave up " something because of your relationship with God? Is your life different than the lives of our friends because of your beliefs?
Lord, I want to count all things that are not from you as not important and "lost". You are the most important part of my life. Thank you!
Disciple Two-sday
This is my last entry for Disciple 2! Wow! We started this class in September. It has been a great experience with a great group of people. I will miss seeing them each week! The chapters this week talked about Rom and Priority.
Rome
This chapter talked about Paul's last days when he was in jail in Rome. It was an interesting story as Paul kept his ministries going while imprisoned. His attitude towards his current state of freedom inspires many of us each day -- being content in any state. Wow!
Priority
This chapter summarizes all the stuff we learned in this class. It encourages us to find out priorities in life and live accordingly. I started this process in my Walk to Emmaus in 2009. I need to continue to work on this as my life changes.
Other Stuff
My left eye continues to get better. I am interested to find out the results of my eye exam tomorrow. I will write about it on Thursday. I continue to wear my safety glasses during the day and a patch over the left eye at night. The funniest part of this story is that my safetly glasses have been a hit almost everywhere I have gone the past few weeks! Two of the baristas at Starbucks thought they were so cool when I got coffee Sunday morning! What a hoot!
God continues to build my faith as this faithless, goofy bear is trying to learn to trust him with one of the deepest desires of my heart. For the second night in a row, I begged God for a sign or more faith. Within a half hour, he gave me another sign. I will do my best to have faith and not need signs to believe that God is working in this particular situation. God, thank you for being so patient with me. I know I am needy at times. The song "Sometimes I'm Samson" comes to mind.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Zero sum game is a business term that means that someone has to win and someone has to lose. In other words, my gains are offset by your losses. In Christ, we don't need to worry about this game. God is faithful in every promise. The concept of winning and losing is from a heavenly prospective instead of an early one.
For example, there is a story of a man who lost his job. It was a difficult, stressful job, but it paid extremely well. The man constantly had health problems from the stress and rarely saw his family with small children. Finally, he collapsed one day. His doctor insisted that he quit the job. Was that a loss or a win? Most earthly measures would say he "lost" a high paying job. From a heavenly point of view, we would say he "won" because he kept his life and got reacquainted with his family.
What things in your life do you count as winning or losing? Do you feel like you "gave up " something because of your relationship with God? Is your life different than the lives of our friends because of your beliefs?
Lord, I want to count all things that are not from you as not important and "lost". You are the most important part of my life. Thank you!
Disciple Two-sday
This is my last entry for Disciple 2! Wow! We started this class in September. It has been a great experience with a great group of people. I will miss seeing them each week! The chapters this week talked about Rom and Priority.
Rome
This chapter talked about Paul's last days when he was in jail in Rome. It was an interesting story as Paul kept his ministries going while imprisoned. His attitude towards his current state of freedom inspires many of us each day -- being content in any state. Wow!
Priority
This chapter summarizes all the stuff we learned in this class. It encourages us to find out priorities in life and live accordingly. I started this process in my Walk to Emmaus in 2009. I need to continue to work on this as my life changes.
Other Stuff
My left eye continues to get better. I am interested to find out the results of my eye exam tomorrow. I will write about it on Thursday. I continue to wear my safety glasses during the day and a patch over the left eye at night. The funniest part of this story is that my safetly glasses have been a hit almost everywhere I have gone the past few weeks! Two of the baristas at Starbucks thought they were so cool when I got coffee Sunday morning! What a hoot!
God continues to build my faith as this faithless, goofy bear is trying to learn to trust him with one of the deepest desires of my heart. For the second night in a row, I begged God for a sign or more faith. Within a half hour, he gave me another sign. I will do my best to have faith and not need signs to believe that God is working in this particular situation. God, thank you for being so patient with me. I know I am needy at times. The song "Sometimes I'm Samson" comes to mind.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
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