Our Daily Bread
I remember stories from my childhood about things or people not always being what they appeared to be on the outside. The Trojan horse. The wolf in sheep's clothing. You know those stories.
As I grew older, I realized that the wolf in sheep's clothing described me in a lot of ways. Or at least I feel that way many times. A kind, cheery person on the outside most of the time, but there is a growly wolf (or grizzly bear!) on the inside that comes out when I least expect it. Yikes!
I haven't felt like myself this week. I have been that grizzly bear more often than I ever want to be. I will figure it out with God's help.
Technology Thursday
Microsoft has some large conferences this week and next. Their Build conference this week had some very interesting announcements about Windows 10. Here are the ten things you need to know from the conference.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Internet access
Our Daily Bread
When I was in Hawaii several years ago, I visited the Big Island. Several folks on the tour talked about wonderful it would be to spend a week or two at a secluded resort. My first question was "Do they have Internet access?" LOL Yes, I am a techie bear!
I like the way the devotional talks about us never losing our "connection" to God despite any limitations to modern technology. No Internet access, depleted cell phone batteries, or wireless carrier outages can't keep us from connecting with our God! Talk about a direct line of communication!
I don't know about you, but I know I don't pray enough. I don't spend enough time in meditation. How about you? Let's pray for each other about that!
Wellness Wednesday
OK, I fully acknowledge that I have NO excuse for not doing some kind of exercise. The article below lists several "body weight" workouts that need little or no equipment to do. Let's do something!
The do-anywhere bodyweight workouts you need to know
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
When I was in Hawaii several years ago, I visited the Big Island. Several folks on the tour talked about wonderful it would be to spend a week or two at a secluded resort. My first question was "Do they have Internet access?" LOL Yes, I am a techie bear!
I like the way the devotional talks about us never losing our "connection" to God despite any limitations to modern technology. No Internet access, depleted cell phone batteries, or wireless carrier outages can't keep us from connecting with our God! Talk about a direct line of communication!
I don't know about you, but I know I don't pray enough. I don't spend enough time in meditation. How about you? Let's pray for each other about that!
Wellness Wednesday
OK, I fully acknowledge that I have NO excuse for not doing some kind of exercise. The article below lists several "body weight" workouts that need little or no equipment to do. Let's do something!
The do-anywhere bodyweight workouts you need to know
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Lake Erie
Our Daily Bread
I grew up near Lake Erie. For a period in my childhood, my family had a small boat that we enjoyed taking out on the lake from time to time. One especially meaningful trip was when we boated from Lorain to Sandusky! It was fun seeing Cedar Point from the water.
Just like life, we had to be careful on our trips. Lake Erie is huge and can be dangerous when the winds and waves kick up. It is nice to know that, as the devotional says, that Jesus is in the same boat with us. He knows our fears and calms them, much like my stepfather used to do when he got us safely back to the dock.
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the 19th and the first part of the 20th century this week. There were some very interesting things that came out of our readings.
The role of the church in Nazi Germany was mostly disappointing, but also inspirational at times. Check out the story of the Pope of that time and his dealings with the Axis leaders.
The church's role in the prohibition movement was interesting. Google that sometime.
There was a short period after WWII that folks in Europe flocked back to church, but that only lasted a few years.
There was a rise in the Pentecostal movement, especially in South America.
Church history is fascinating. I am amazed and thankful that we still have the church today after all the things we did to each other!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
I grew up near Lake Erie. For a period in my childhood, my family had a small boat that we enjoyed taking out on the lake from time to time. One especially meaningful trip was when we boated from Lorain to Sandusky! It was fun seeing Cedar Point from the water.
Just like life, we had to be careful on our trips. Lake Erie is huge and can be dangerous when the winds and waves kick up. It is nice to know that, as the devotional says, that Jesus is in the same boat with us. He knows our fears and calms them, much like my stepfather used to do when he got us safely back to the dock.
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the 19th and the first part of the 20th century this week. There were some very interesting things that came out of our readings.
The role of the church in Nazi Germany was mostly disappointing, but also inspirational at times. Check out the story of the Pope of that time and his dealings with the Axis leaders.
The church's role in the prohibition movement was interesting. Google that sometime.
There was a short period after WWII that folks in Europe flocked back to church, but that only lasted a few years.
There was a rise in the Pentecostal movement, especially in South America.
Church history is fascinating. I am amazed and thankful that we still have the church today after all the things we did to each other!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Monday, April 27, 2015
Here comes the rain again...
Our Daily Bread
There was a popular song when I was growing up called Here comes the rain again by The Eurhythmics. Very cool song. Rain is a funny thing. We need it for our crops to grow and our lawns to turn green, yet too much can be a very, very bad thing! I had seen how flooding ravages a home and a town. It is unbelievable!
The story in the devotional is about the Hebrew people as they moved towards their promised land, Moses reminded them that they wouldn't have to manually irrigate the soil. God would send spring and fall rains!
In the 21st century, rain is still very important even with modern irrigation technologies. Check out the news about the water shortages in the California and Nevada! Yikes!
"Rain" is also important in our spiritual lives. A little rain, which can sometimes seem like a flood, helps us appreciate the sunny days!
Movie Monday
I watched a couple of movies on Netflix this weekend. I really need to ride my recumbent bike when I watch them, but that is another story all together! Here are two of them I watched:
Interview with a Hitman
This movie moved a little slow for me, but it has lots of action. It was about a hitman, so it was violent (warning!). Watching the whole movie was worth the plot twists at the end!
I give this two bear paws.
Fire with Fire
Fire with Fire had several big names in it, but I don't remember seeing it at the movie theaters. There were some good performances, considering the poorly written script. In short, a fireman witnesses two murders by the Arian brotherhood in Long Beach. When he agrees to testify, his live changes dramatically.
I give this one two bear paws as well.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
There was a popular song when I was growing up called Here comes the rain again by The Eurhythmics. Very cool song. Rain is a funny thing. We need it for our crops to grow and our lawns to turn green, yet too much can be a very, very bad thing! I had seen how flooding ravages a home and a town. It is unbelievable!
The story in the devotional is about the Hebrew people as they moved towards their promised land, Moses reminded them that they wouldn't have to manually irrigate the soil. God would send spring and fall rains!
In the 21st century, rain is still very important even with modern irrigation technologies. Check out the news about the water shortages in the California and Nevada! Yikes!
"Rain" is also important in our spiritual lives. A little rain, which can sometimes seem like a flood, helps us appreciate the sunny days!
Movie Monday
I watched a couple of movies on Netflix this weekend. I really need to ride my recumbent bike when I watch them, but that is another story all together! Here are two of them I watched:
Interview with a Hitman
This movie moved a little slow for me, but it has lots of action. It was about a hitman, so it was violent (warning!). Watching the whole movie was worth the plot twists at the end!
I give this two bear paws.
Fire with Fire
Fire with Fire had several big names in it, but I don't remember seeing it at the movie theaters. There were some good performances, considering the poorly written script. In short, a fireman witnesses two murders by the Arian brotherhood in Long Beach. When he agrees to testify, his live changes dramatically.
I give this one two bear paws as well.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Proverbs 3
Proverbs 3 New International Version (NIV)
Wisdom Bestows Well-Being
1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you peace and prosperity.
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.[a]
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.
9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.
11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
and do not resent his rebuke,
12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in.[b]
13 Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.
19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;
20 by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.
21 My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,
preserve sound judgment and discretion;
22 they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.
23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble.
24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Have no fear of sudden disaster
or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
26 for the Lord will be at your side
and will keep your foot from being snared.
27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
when it is in your power to act.
28 Do not say to your neighbor,
“Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—
when you already have it with you.
29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you.
30 Do not accuse anyone for no reason—
when they have done you no harm.
31 Do not envy the violent
or choose any of their ways.
32 For the Lord detests the perverse
but takes the upright into his confidence.
33 The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the righteous.
34 He mocks proud mockers
but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools get only shame.
Wisdom Bestows Well-Being
1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you peace and prosperity.
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.[a]
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.
9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.
11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
and do not resent his rebuke,
12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in.[b]
13 Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.
19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;
20 by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.
21 My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,
preserve sound judgment and discretion;
22 they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.
23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble.
24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Have no fear of sudden disaster
or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
26 for the Lord will be at your side
and will keep your foot from being snared.
27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
when it is in your power to act.
28 Do not say to your neighbor,
“Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—
when you already have it with you.
29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you.
30 Do not accuse anyone for no reason—
when they have done you no harm.
31 Do not envy the violent
or choose any of their ways.
32 For the Lord detests the perverse
but takes the upright into his confidence.
33 The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the righteous.
34 He mocks proud mockers
but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools get only shame.
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Living...
Reading the Old Testament can be difficult at times. I have an especially difficult time with the concept of animal sacrifice. It seemed like such a waste of life in a society where animals were especially important.
I think about how the animal was "all in". It had to sacrifice its life for the act.
Today we are called to sacrifice our lives. To be "all in". The amazing part is that we don't have to physically die. Our sacrifice results in a fuller, more meaningful life than we could ever have imagined.
Let's pray for each other to be "all in" all the time!
Friday, April 24, 2015
Faith....Found
Our Daily Bread
I am often amazed by the techno gadgets that I can't resist buying! Battery packs for my phone, a Windows RT 8.1 Surface tablet that I got a deal on from eBay, my Amazon Echo, etc. I also laugh at the ones that I refuse to buy like the Clapper!
Sometimes I wish I had a Clapper device for my faith! Clap, clap and then I have the faith needed to move mountains! Or at least the amount of faith to trust God for every little thing as well as all the big things. One professor in seminary said "We are to trust God for every breath". Wow! I never thought if that way until we had that talk! We always want to be strong in our own way instead of strong in the Lord!
In our weakness, we are made strong in Him...
Foodie Friday
I have this recipe in the crock pot as I write this blog entry! It sounded good, so I am trying it. I will let you know how it turns out.
STEAK AND GRAVY "CROCK POT STYLE" [link]
1 1/2 to 2 lb. very lean chuck steak
1 pkg. Lipton dry onion soup mix
1 (10 oz.) mushroom gravy
Pepper, to taste
6 potatoes, peeled and cut in half
6 carrots, peeled and cut in half
Put chuck steak in bottom of crock pot. Sprinkle with pepper to taste. Sprinkle on the package of dry onion soup mix. Next, add the mushroom gravy, and finally add the potatoes and carrots and cover pot with the lid. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
I start this in the morning and supper is ready when I come home in the evening. A great time-saver.
I am often amazed by the techno gadgets that I can't resist buying! Battery packs for my phone, a Windows RT 8.1 Surface tablet that I got a deal on from eBay, my Amazon Echo, etc. I also laugh at the ones that I refuse to buy like the Clapper!
Sometimes I wish I had a Clapper device for my faith! Clap, clap and then I have the faith needed to move mountains! Or at least the amount of faith to trust God for every little thing as well as all the big things. One professor in seminary said "We are to trust God for every breath". Wow! I never thought if that way until we had that talk! We always want to be strong in our own way instead of strong in the Lord!
In our weakness, we are made strong in Him...
Foodie Friday
I have this recipe in the crock pot as I write this blog entry! It sounded good, so I am trying it. I will let you know how it turns out.
STEAK AND GRAVY "CROCK POT STYLE" [link]
1 1/2 to 2 lb. very lean chuck steak
1 pkg. Lipton dry onion soup mix
1 (10 oz.) mushroom gravy
Pepper, to taste
6 potatoes, peeled and cut in half
6 carrots, peeled and cut in half
Put chuck steak in bottom of crock pot. Sprinkle with pepper to taste. Sprinkle on the package of dry onion soup mix. Next, add the mushroom gravy, and finally add the potatoes and carrots and cover pot with the lid. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
I start this in the morning and supper is ready when I come home in the evening. A great time-saver.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Not me, Lord!
Our Daily Bread
When I was younger, I loved playing team sports. Even if I wasn't very good at them, I always said "Put me in, coach! I am ready!" I have to admit that I am not as ready to participate in team sports right now! I am old and fat! LOL
How often do we have this attitude with God when He calls us to do something -- "Put me in, coach! I am ready!" Most times, I feel, we are like the Old Testament folks we now call heroes who usually said "Not me, Lord!" We see it with Moses. We see it with David. We see it with many of the prophets.
I hope God doesn't hear "Not me, Lord" from us!
Technology Thursday
I liked this article about how butterfly wings are affecting technology!
Butterfly wings are the key to glare-free phone displays
Butterflies have proven to be a surprising source of inspiration for technology, and that trend isn't about to slow down any time soon. German researchers have discovered that irregular, nanoscopic structures on the glasswing butterfly's namesake transparent wings eliminate most reflections at any angle -- perfect for phones, camera lenses and most any other device where display glare is a problem. The scientists have yet to completely recreate this surface in the lab, but they foresee a future where you're not struggling to read your smartphone outdoors. And the kicker? Prototypes are already self-cleaning and water-repellant, so you wouldn't need extra coatings to keep your screens largely smudge-free.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
When I was younger, I loved playing team sports. Even if I wasn't very good at them, I always said "Put me in, coach! I am ready!" I have to admit that I am not as ready to participate in team sports right now! I am old and fat! LOL
How often do we have this attitude with God when He calls us to do something -- "Put me in, coach! I am ready!" Most times, I feel, we are like the Old Testament folks we now call heroes who usually said "Not me, Lord!
I hope God doesn't hear "Not me, Lord
Technology Thursday
I liked this article about how butterfly wings are affecting technology!
Butterfly wings are the key to glare-free phone displays
Butterflies have proven to be a surprising source of inspiration for technology, and that trend isn't about to slow down any time soon. German researchers have discovered that irregular, nanoscopic structures on the glasswing butterfly's namesake transparent wings eliminate most reflections at any angle -- perfect for phones, camera lenses and most any other device where display glare is a problem. The scientists have yet to completely recreate this surface in the lab, but they foresee a future where you're not struggling to read your smartphone outdoors. And the kicker? Prototypes are already self-cleaning and water-repellant, so you wouldn't need extra coatings to keep your screens largely smudge-free.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Nothing is impossible
Our Daily Bread
I remember the old revival hymn "Nothing is impossible with God" based on Matthew 19:26:
Nothing is impossible when you put your trust in God;
Nothing is impossible when you're trusting in His Word.
Hearken to the voice of God to thee;
"Is there anything too hard to Me?"
Then put your trust in God alone and rest upon His Word;
For ev'rything, O, ev'rything, yes ev'rything is possible with God.
How often do we really sing this song and believe it? I firmly believe that nothing is impossible with God, however, discerning what should be possible is a whole 'nother story! What should we pray for? How do know for sure? The movie Evan Almighty had a great example of answering prayers -- millions of folks prayed to win the lottery. Evan thought that was a good thing, so he answered all their prayers. Each person won about $3! Yes, their prayers were answered, but not in the way they expected.
One last song and I will close out this entry. A secular song by Garth Brooks offers insights into Unanswered Prayers.
Believe in God and Trust His ways. Yes, they can be a mystery to us.
Teaching Tuesday
This week our chapter in church history was about "To Make the World Protestant (1700-1914). Much of the past few chapters was about the movement of the Catholic church and the Muslim religion moving across the planet. This chapter focused on the Protestant religions.
There was a lot in this chapter about how different religions viewed and processed the slavery issue. There was a lot about the missionary work in Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, and the good ole US of A.
My big "a-HA" moment was realizing that God has used the separation of mankind into different religions to spread His message around the world. The Protestant religions seemed to be more successful in Africa, where Catholicism seemed to fall flat over the centuries. Christianity in general fell flat in India where the caste system conflicted directly with the message of Christ (all folks are equal in Christ).
I promised myself that I would make more of an effort to learn about other faiths. Learn about how the message of Christ persists in these faiths despite the fact they don't use the same language as the Christian religions. The ways of God are mysteries to us all!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
I remember the old revival hymn "Nothing is impossible with God" based on Matthew 19:26:
Nothing is impossible when you put your trust in God;
Nothing is impossible when you're trusting in His Word.
Hearken to the voice of God to thee;
"Is there anything too hard to Me?"
Then put your trust in God alone and rest upon His Word;
For ev'rything, O, ev'rything, yes ev'rything is possible with God.
How often do we really sing this song and believe it? I firmly believe that nothing is impossible with God, however, discerning what should be possible is a whole 'nother story! What should we pray for? How do know for sure? The movie Evan Almighty had a great example of answering prayers -- millions of folks prayed to win the lottery. Evan thought that was a good thing, so he answered all their prayers. Each person won about $3! Yes, their prayers were answered, but not in the way they expected.
One last song and I will close out this entry. A secular song by Garth Brooks offers insights into Unanswered Prayers.
Believe in God and Trust His ways. Yes, they can be a mystery to us.
Teaching Tuesday
This week our chapter in church history was about "To Make the World Protestant (1700-1914). Much of the past few chapters was about the movement of the Catholic church and the Muslim religion moving across the planet. This chapter focused on the Protestant religions.
There was a lot in this chapter about how different religions viewed and processed the slavery issue. There was a lot about the missionary work in Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, and the good ole US of A.
My big "a-HA" moment was realizing that God has used the separation of mankind into different religions to spread His message around the world. The Protestant religions seemed to be more successful in Africa, where Catholicism seemed to fall flat over the centuries. Christianity in general fell flat in India where the caste system conflicted directly with the message of Christ (all folks are equal in Christ).
I promised myself that I would make more of an effort to learn about other faiths. Learn about how the message of Christ persists in these faiths despite the fact they don't use the same language as the Christian religions. The ways of God are mysteries to us all!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Monday, April 20, 2015
Which one?
Our Daily Bread
I read an article the other day about the prodigal son story -- which one was really the prodigal? Was it the son who left and squandered his inheritance or was it the one who stayed and felt like he deserved better?
IMHO, both sons were prodigals. They both represent important images in our church. First, the one who left represents the folks that never really had much to do with the church. The words of Jesus remind us to celebrate when these folks "come home". The one who stayed represents the folks who have provided faithful, consistent service. That is a very good thing! The problem is that folks like that, and I include myself in this group, feel like they deserve more because of our faithful, consistent service.
We are all saved by grace. We have not earned a drop of the blood of Jesus no matter how long we faithfully served God. Grace. Amazing Grace.
Movie Monday
I didn't take time to go to the movie theater this weekend, so I watched some movies on Netflix. I started a trial subscription last month and decided to keep it. There are a lot of movies on it, of course. I wasn't sure if they had enough for me to subscribe. There are a lot of TV shows too, but I am not a big TV person.
I watched a couple of movies over the weekend: The Machine and The Punisher.
The Machine is a sci-fi flick about the making and evolution of a cyborg kind of creature. It was a little slow, but had a lot of cool stuff in it. At the end it sort of made me feel unfulfilled as there was an odd ending to me. Oh well. It had some entertaining parts. The technology was cool.
The Punisher is a Marvel comic made into a movie (if you can imagine). A phoenix of a man comes back to "punish" the family that killed his entire family. Bad guys get it in the end. I liked it years ago when I first saw it. I liked it again last night. Lots of violence so shy away from this one if you don't like the testosterone-filled blow up style of movie.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
I read an article the other day about the prodigal son story -- which one was really the prodigal? Was it the son who left and squandered his inheritance or was it the one who stayed and felt like he deserved better?
IMHO, both sons were prodigals. They both represent important images in our church. First, the one who left represents the folks that never really had much to do with the church. The words of Jesus remind us to celebrate when these folks "come home". The one who stayed represents the folks who have provided faithful, consistent service. That is a very good thing! The problem is that folks like that, and I include myself in this group, feel like they deserve more because of our faithful, consistent service.
We are all saved by grace. We have not earned a drop of the blood of Jesus no matter how long we faithfully served God. Grace. Amazing Grace.
Movie Monday
I didn't take time to go to the movie theater this weekend, so I watched some movies on Netflix. I started a trial subscription last month and decided to keep it. There are a lot of movies on it, of course. I wasn't sure if they had enough for me to subscribe. There are a lot of TV shows too, but I am not a big TV person.
I watched a couple of movies over the weekend: The Machine and The Punisher.
The Machine is a sci-fi flick about the making and evolution of a cyborg kind of creature. It was a little slow, but had a lot of cool stuff in it. At the end it sort of made me feel unfulfilled as there was an odd ending to me. Oh well. It had some entertaining parts. The technology was cool.
The Punisher is a Marvel comic made into a movie (if you can imagine). A phoenix of a man comes back to "punish" the family that killed his entire family. Bad guys get it in the end. I liked it years ago when I first saw it. I liked it again last night. Lots of violence so shy away from this one if you don't like the testosterone-filled blow up style of movie.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Proverbs 2
Proverbs 2
New International Version (NIV)Moral Benefits of Wisdom
2 My son, if you accept my wordsand store up my commands within you,
2 turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding—
3 indeed, if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.
9 Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
11 Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.
12 Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,
13 who have left the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,
14 who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,
15 whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.
16 Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman,
from the wayward woman with her seductive words,
17 who has left the partner of her youth
and ignored the covenant she made before God.[a]
18 Surely her house leads down to death
and her paths to the spirits of the dead.
19 None who go to her return
or attain the paths of life.
20 Thus you will walk in the ways of the good
and keep to the paths of the righteous.
21 For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;
22 but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it.
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Reeeaaadddyyyy
My Utmost for His Highest [link]
Have you read or heard about the book My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers? I was introduced to the book by a mentor a few years ago. I have read the entire book yet, but I have been reading the daily devotionals based on the book on and off for over a year now. IMHO, it is WAY out there! Way out there in a good way. In a Christian extreme way. Extreme in that the man describes intense Christianity for the lay person. Take a look at the link above for today's devotional. It is about Readiness.
Readiness
Many years ago, I was watching the Winter Olympics with some friends. We chuckled at the starter for the speed skating. Each time, he steadily said "Reeeaaadddyyyy" in the exact same way, then started the races. His accent made us laugh as the said it the exact same way each time! A few years later, I heard that familiar word when I was channel surfing. When I came across speed skating, I heard it again -- the exact same way!
The devotional today is about readiness. I thought about the statements about always being ready. We are to be ready when God calls us or talks to us. We should have to get ready to do His Will. Very interesting. It is like the bride maids parable that Jesus told. I joked about the bride mades keeping r phones charged if the story was told in the 21st century! We are to always be ready!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Have you read or heard about the book My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers? I was introduced to the book by a mentor a few years ago. I have read the entire book yet, but I have been reading the daily devotionals based on the book on and off for over a year now. IMHO, it is WAY out there! Way out there in a good way. In a Christian extreme way. Extreme in that the man describes intense Christianity for the lay person. Take a look at the link above for today's devotional. It is about Readiness.
Readiness
Many years ago, I was watching the Winter Olympics with some friends. We chuckled at the starter for the speed skating. Each time, he steadily said "Reeeaaadddyyyy" in the exact same way, then started the races. His accent made us laugh as the said it the exact same way each time! A few years later, I heard that familiar word when I was channel surfing. When I came across speed skating, I heard it again -- the exact same way!
The devotional today is about readiness. I thought about the statements about always being ready. We are to be ready when God calls us or talks to us. We should have to get ready to do His Will. Very interesting. It is like the bride maids parable that Jesus told. I joked about the bride mades keeping r phones charged if the story was told in the 21st century! We are to always be ready!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Friday, April 17, 2015
We are Family
Our Daily Bread
I have been fortunate to witness and experience the church family at its best. I try not to think about the times when I witnessed and experienced the worst. ;-(
An example of the best is what I saw and heard last night. We had a new member join us to help serving a meal to some homeless folks. His wife of many decades passed away in January. He was rebuilding his life after this terrible loss. Two of the other members helping out found out about his loss and took him under their wings. They assured him that he was not alone. They invited him to their home to talk and fellowship. We all talked about other opportunities to be active in the church to assure him that he was truly not alone.
We are not alone. We have our church family -- the most important reason to be active in a church or parish. We are family.
Foodie Friday
I made a simple ham and cheese quiche for an Easter brunch. It was very tasty, especially considering how simple it was to make. Here is the recipe. I recommend adding another egg or two (4 or 5 eggs) to fill up the shell. If not there is a lot of extra crust at the top.
Ham and cheese quiche [link]
INGREDIENTS
SERVINGS 6 UNITS US
3 eggs, beaten
3⁄4 cup milk
salt
pepper
1 cup chopped cooked ham
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 9" unbaked pie shell
DIRECTIONS
Beat eggs with milk, salt and pepper in bowl.
Add ham and cheese.
Pour into pie shell.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Let stand for several minutes before serving.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
I have been fortunate to witness and experience the church family at its best. I try not to think about the times when I witnessed and experienced the worst. ;-(
An example of the best is what I saw and heard last night. We had a new member join us to help serving a meal to some homeless folks. His wife of many decades passed away in January. He was rebuilding his life after this terrible loss. Two of the other members helping out found out about his loss and took him under their wings. They assured him that he was not alone. They invited him to their home to talk and fellowship. We all talked about other opportunities to be active in the church to assure him that he was truly not alone.
We are not alone. We have our church family -- the most important reason to be active in a church or parish. We are family.
Foodie Friday
I made a simple ham and cheese quiche for an Easter brunch. It was very tasty, especially considering how simple it was to make. Here is the recipe. I recommend adding another egg or two (4 or 5 eggs) to fill up the shell. If not there is a lot of extra crust at the top.
Ham and cheese quiche [link]
INGREDIENTS
SERVINGS 6 UNITS US
3 eggs, beaten
3⁄4 cup milk
salt
pepper
1 cup chopped cooked ham
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 9" unbaked pie shell
DIRECTIONS
Beat eggs with milk, salt and pepper in bowl.
Add ham and cheese.
Pour into pie shell.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Let stand for several minutes before serving.
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Thursday, April 16, 2015
My heaven is....
Our Daily Bread
None us really know what heaven will be like. There are sooooo many folks who do! We think we will see the folks who passed before us. We will see the disciples and the prophets. We will see the popes and saints. We will behold sights that our human minds can't comprehend or express.
What is your view of heaven? What will it be like?
I thought the devotional story today was very cute. Heaven will a place with all the best fishing holes! That sounds like Hades to me! Yikes! I know we will not need fast Internet access, powerful personal computers, or very nice cars, but we sometimes put heaven in the only context we understand -- the human one.
I think all the theologians and preachers agree -- Heaven is where God lives and reigns. The details will have to be discovered on our own! What an adventure!
Oh, to be with you, Lord Jesus, that would be heaven indeed.
Technology Thursday
So my next tech toy, due out in August, is a smart watch competitor to the Apple Watch. It is not a "fancy" as the Apple Watch, but works with iOS and Android. The version I am buying is about half the price of the regular Apple Watch. Here is more info on the Pebble Time Steel smart watch.
It won't arrive until August, so I have to wait ALL summer. Grrrrrrr... LOL It will be fine. I will write more about it when it arrives.
I should receive my new wallet soon. I will write about it after it arrives. Technology at every corner. That is the way I roll...
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
None us really know what heaven will be like. There are sooooo many folks who do! We think we will see the folks who passed before us. We will see the disciples and the prophets. We will see the popes and saints. We will behold sights that our human minds can't comprehend or express.
What is your view of heaven? What will it be like?
I thought the devotional story today was very cute. Heaven will a place with all the best fishing holes! That sounds like Hades to me! Yikes! I know we will not need fast Internet access, powerful personal computers, or very nice cars, but we sometimes put heaven in the only context we understand -- the human one.
I think all the theologians and preachers agree -- Heaven is where God lives and reigns. The details will have to be discovered on our own! What an adventure!
Oh, to be with you, Lord Jesus, that would be heaven indeed.
Technology Thursday
So my next tech toy, due out in August, is a smart watch competitor to the Apple Watch. It is not a "fancy" as the Apple Watch, but works with iOS and Android. The version I am buying is about half the price of the regular Apple Watch. Here is more info on the Pebble Time Steel smart watch.
It won't arrive until August, so I have to wait ALL summer. Grrrrrrr... LOL It will be fine. I will write more about it when it arrives.
I should receive my new wallet soon. I will write about it after it arrives. Technology at every corner. That is the way I roll...
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
No mas (no more)
Our Daily Bread
When discussing the "God will never give you more than you can bear" passage with some friends, we all laughed when one of us said -- "God I love you, but NO MAS!" LOL No more!
I don't believe that God "gives" us trials, temptation or suffering. I believe God helps us through these things with the strength and confidence that only He can give. I have experienced it over and over in my life. I compare it to a weightlifter who keeps pushing himself (or herself) to life even more weight. There are times when we try to life too much on our own without the proper coaching or spotter to be there for us when we fail.
God is so much more that a coach or spotter. We will never understand God's glory...
Wellness Wednesday
I have been experiencing a lot of hip pain when trying to walk or do my normal exercises. Not a good thing. I have a doctor appointment at the end of the month to look at it. I was told two y ears ago about arthritis and some other possibilities (see devotional above!). I started looking for some alternatives that would get my heart rate up and not be painful. Here is what I found:
tai chi
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. Check out this article by the Mayo Clinic to get started.
Yoga
Yoga a Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline, a part of which, including breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures, is widely practiced for health and relaxation. In the US, yoga is widely seen as a womens' sport since the moves and positions are often difficult for men to do. Here are a couple of articles about yoga moves for the rest of us!
http://www.mensfitness.com/training/endurance/top-10-yoga-poses-for-men
http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/26/health/sleep-better-yoga/index.html
http://www.msn.com/en-us/health/yogapilates/flatten-your-belly-with-yoga/ss-AA8q6HW
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
When discussing the "God will never give you more than you can bear" passage with some friends, we all laughed when one of us said -- "God I love you, but NO MAS!" LOL No more!
I don't believe that God "gives" us trials, temptation or suffering. I believe God helps us through these things with the strength and confidence that only He can give. I have experienced it over and over in my life. I compare it to a weightlifter who keeps pushing himself (or herself) to life even more weight. There are times when we try to life too much on our own without the proper coaching or spotter to be there for us when we fail.
God is so much more that a coach or spotter. We will never understand God's glory...
Wellness Wednesday
I have been experiencing a lot of hip pain when trying to walk or do my normal exercises. Not a good thing. I have a doctor appointment at the end of the month to look at it. I was told two y ears ago about arthritis and some other possibilities (see devotional above!). I started looking for some alternatives that would get my heart rate up and not be painful. Here is what I found:
tai chi
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. Check out this article by the Mayo Clinic to get started.
Yoga
Yoga a Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline, a part of which, including breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures, is widely practiced for health and relaxation. In the US, yoga is widely seen as a womens' sport since the moves and positions are often difficult for men to do. Here are a couple of articles about yoga moves for the rest of us!
http://www.mensfitness.com/training/endurance/top-10-yoga-poses-for-men
http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/26/health/sleep-better-yoga/index.html
http://www.msn.com/en-us/health/yogapilates/flatten-your-belly-with-yoga/ss-AA8q6HW
As I tell myself each day, DO SOMETHING!!!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Don't worry...be Godly
Our Daily Bread
Yes, don't worry, be happy was the anthem of a generation. How many times has someone told you that when you are stressed or down and out? For the children of God, the don't worry part is especially appropriate!
We are told over and over again in scripture "don't worry". There are some beautiful passages that are meant to give us hope and comfort. They are also meant to give us confidence in our Risen Lord and Savior, our Heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit. Confidence in knowing that our needs, not necessarily our wants, will be met in this life and the next!
Don't worry. Be Godly.
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the church history events from the 19th century this week. Some interesting stuff. Sightings of the Mother Mary in unexpected places (actually it is unexpected wherever she shows up!), the birth of Fundamentalism, the rise of science and scientific questioning of God, and the ever steady movement of Christianity around the world!
I will look for some online resources for you to review for next week. It is good for us to know our past so we can learn and not make the same mistakes again. It is also good for us to be confident in the message of God and how he draws all people to him!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Yes, don't worry, be happy was the anthem of a generation. How many times has someone told you that when you are stressed or down and out? For the children of God, the don't worry part is especially appropriate!
We are told over and over again in scripture "don't worry". There are some beautiful passages that are meant to give us hope and comfort. They are also meant to give us confidence in our Risen Lord and Savior, our Heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit. Confidence in knowing that our needs, not necessarily our wants, will be met in this life and the next!
Don't worry. Be Godly.
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the church history events from the 19th century this week. Some interesting stuff. Sightings of the Mother Mary in unexpected places (actually it is unexpected wherever she shows up!), the birth of Fundamentalism, the rise of science and scientific questioning of God, and the ever steady movement of Christianity around the world!
I will look for some online resources for you to review for next week. It is good for us to know our past so we can learn and not make the same mistakes again. It is also good for us to be confident in the message of God and how he draws all people to him!
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Monday, April 13, 2015
In case of emergency, break glass
Our Daily Bread
We have all seen the fire hose/extinguisher stations in large buildings that have the sign "In case of emergency, break glass". Unfortunately, many of us treat our prayer life the same way -- only in case of emergency!
I had a case of this recently where I was feeling very self-sufficient. I started making plans without consulting God first. I started feeling very "full" of myself. Then, the manure hit the fan. God opened my eyes to the fact that I was not living the prayers that I say in church each week or the prayers that I suggest to other people. "Lord, our time is in your hands" starts the birthday blessing prayer. It is when we think everything we have is our own, including our health and time, that we realize how wrong we are.
Lord, our time IS in your hands. Please help us be responsible stewards of the time you give us on this earth.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Last Knights over the weekend. Morgan Freeman and Clive Barker starred in it. I wasched it becauase I sometime like medieval-knight movies. This one was just OK. The plot was OK and had nice twists throughout, thought the end result was pretty easy to see. The performances were OK. The fights weren't overly bloody or unbelievable. If you like this type of movie, see it at a matinee. Don't pay full price! LOL
I give this movie two bear paws. Would be a nice Netflix evening...
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
We have all seen the fire hose/extinguisher stations in large buildings that have the sign "In case of emergency, break glass". Unfortunately, many of us treat our prayer life the same way -- only in case of emergency!
I had a case of this recently where I was feeling very self-sufficient. I started making plans without consulting God first. I started feeling very "full" of myself. Then, the manure hit the fan. God opened my eyes to the fact that I was not living the prayers that I say in church each week or the prayers that I suggest to other people. "Lord, our time is in your hands" starts the birthday blessing prayer. It is when we think everything we have is our own, including our health and time, that we realize how wrong we are.
Lord, our time IS in your hands. Please help us be responsible stewards of the time you give us on this earth.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Last Knights over the weekend. Morgan Freeman and Clive Barker starred in it. I wasched it becauase I sometime like medieval-knight movies. This one was just OK. The plot was OK and had nice twists throughout, thought the end result was pretty easy to see. The performances were OK. The fights weren't overly bloody or unbelievable. If you like this type of movie, see it at a matinee. Don't pay full price! LOL
I give this movie two bear paws. Would be a nice Netflix evening...
**********************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Proverbs 1
I will post a proverb each Sunday. Take a few moments with me to read each one. May Wisdom call to each of us. May we all listen. -- Duane
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,[a]
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.[b]
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools[c] despise wisdom and instruction.
Prologue: Exhortations to Embrace Wisdom
Warning Against the Invitation of Sinful Men
8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
9 They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck.
10 My son, if sinful men entice you,
do not give in to them.
11 If they say, “Come along with us;
let’s lie in wait for innocent blood,
let’s ambush some harmless soul;
12 let’s swallow them alive, like the grave,
and whole, like those who go down to the pit;
13 we will get all sorts of valuable things
and fill our houses with plunder;
14 cast lots with us;
we will all share the loot”—
15 my son, do not go along with them,
do not set foot on their paths;
16 for their feet rush into evil,
they are swift to shed blood.
17 How useless to spread a net
where every bird can see it!
18 These men lie in wait for their own blood;
they ambush only themselves!
19 Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain;
it takes away the life of those who get it.
Wisdom’s Rebuke
20 Out in the open wisdom calls aloud,
she raises her voice in the public square;
21 on top of the wall[d] she cries out,
at the city gate she makes her speech:
22 “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?
23 Repent at my rebuke!
Then I will pour out my thoughts to you,
I will make known to you my teachings.
24 But since you refuse to listen when I call
and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand,
25 since you disregard all my advice
and do not accept my rebuke,
26 I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you;
I will mock when calamity overtakes you—
27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind,
when distress and trouble overwhelm you.
28 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer;
they will look for me but will not find me,
29 since they hated knowledge
and did not choose to fear the Lord.
30 Since they would not accept my advice
and spurned my rebuke,
31 they will eat the fruit of their ways
and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
32 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;
33 but whoever listens to me will live in safety
and be at ease, without fear of harm.”
Proverbs 1
Purpose and Theme1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,[a]
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.[b]
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools[c] despise wisdom and instruction.
Prologue: Exhortations to Embrace Wisdom
Warning Against the Invitation of Sinful Men
8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
9 They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck.
10 My son, if sinful men entice you,
do not give in to them.
11 If they say, “Come along with us;
let’s lie in wait for innocent blood,
let’s ambush some harmless soul;
12 let’s swallow them alive, like the grave,
and whole, like those who go down to the pit;
13 we will get all sorts of valuable things
and fill our houses with plunder;
14 cast lots with us;
we will all share the loot”—
15 my son, do not go along with them,
do not set foot on their paths;
16 for their feet rush into evil,
they are swift to shed blood.
17 How useless to spread a net
where every bird can see it!
18 These men lie in wait for their own blood;
they ambush only themselves!
19 Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain;
it takes away the life of those who get it.
Wisdom’s Rebuke
20 Out in the open wisdom calls aloud,
she raises her voice in the public square;
21 on top of the wall[d] she cries out,
at the city gate she makes her speech:
22 “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?
23 Repent at my rebuke!
Then I will pour out my thoughts to you,
I will make known to you my teachings.
24 But since you refuse to listen when I call
and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand,
25 since you disregard all my advice
and do not accept my rebuke,
26 I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you;
I will mock when calamity overtakes you—
27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind,
when distress and trouble overwhelm you.
28 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer;
they will look for me but will not find me,
29 since they hated knowledge
and did not choose to fear the Lord.
30 Since they would not accept my advice
and spurned my rebuke,
31 they will eat the fruit of their ways
and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
32 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;
33 but whoever listens to me will live in safety
and be at ease, without fear of harm.”
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Sermon Number 3: Believing Thomas
Below is my third sermon entitled "Believing Thomas" based on the passage in John 20:19-31. There are a lot of things in that passage, but I focused on Thomas.
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Nicknames can be a funny thing in our culture. Or they can be embarrassing or hurtful. For example, my youngest sister, Patricia Louise, didn’t tell her husband about her childhood nickname. She tried to shed that nickname in her teenage years, but the family didn’t get the memo. After she heard her husband answer the phone one day “I am sorry, but there is no one here named 'Lulu'”, she had to fess up! They had been married about five years at the time! Some of my nicknames are “Fitz” from my last name, “Dooooo-ane” from the way I spell Duane, or my high school Spanish teacher gave me a nickname because there was not a Spanish translation for “Duane”. He called me Duano. Yes, the jokes never get old with that one!
The Gospel passage today gave way to a nickname for one of the apostles that almost everyone is familiar with: Doubting Thomas. It is not really a fair nickname in my opinion. We don’t know a lot about Thomas from the Bible. Most of the references about him are from the Book of John, the only Gospel to tell the “Doubting Thomas” story. It is interesting that in the references where Thomas speaks, he seems to be the thoughtful, dedicated one. I chuckled to myself that he sounded very Episcopalian! He seems to think through things on his own, makes the decision to act, and then follows through with it! Thomas showed more loyalty to Christ than many of the others in John 11. When the Pharisees were actively seeking to kill Him, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us go to Judea again” (John 11:7). Thomas is the one who said, “Let us also go that we may die with Him” (v. 16). During the last supper story in John 14, Thomas asks this question after Jesus tells them that he goes to prepare a place for them “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Thomas seems to ask the tough questions. In the Gospel passage for today, Thomas expresses his doubts, but then acknowledges Jesus and follows through with his faith.
The Bible doesn’t tell us what Thomas did after this experience. Tradition says that at the dispersal of the Apostles after Pentecost this saint was sent to evangelize the Parthians, Medes, and Persians; he ultimately reached India, carrying the Faith to the Malabar coast, which still boasts a large native population calling themselves "Christians of St. Thomas."
I wonder what it would be like to experience the lives of the disciples. Being a “techy”, computer geek kind of guy, I think it would be cool if we could have a virtual reality machine to simulate what they saw. Unfortunately, there is NOT an app for that! If I created one, I would call it the Virtual Disciple app or maybe iDisciple! If you are not familiar with the term virtual reality or don’t have a smart phone or fancy tablet, we will do this the old-fashioned way - use our imaginations!
Imagine Jesus calling you while you are fishing. You don’t know why you drop everything to follow him, but you know it is the right thing to do.
Imagine watching him teaching in the temple, casting out demons, healing the sick, feeding the thousands, and calming the sea with just his words.
Imagine marching triumphantly into Jerusalem waving palms and singing Hosanna!
Imagine the dark times as you watch your teacher die on the cross.
Imagine Jesus appearing to you after his resurrection with his hands outstretched: “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
We have an huge advantage over the disciples of that day — we know how the story ends!
Even if we did have the opportunity to experience Jesus amongst us like Thomas and the disciples, what difference would it really make in our lives? We might be looking over our shoulders waiting for Allen Funt to jump out and say “You’re on Candid Camera” or Ashton Kutcher showing up to say “You’ve been punked!” In my opinion, we are even more skeptical today than Thomas was in his.
Some friends of mine told me how skeptical and questioning their children are. Most of the children were in their 20s and early 30s. They want nothing to do with organized religion. The parents did their best to be a good example of what a believing, church-attending Christian should be. I have LGBT friends that feel the same way. What can we do to lead these folks to God?
It is my opinion that we should share our doubts, just like Thomas did. Show them that being skeptical is OK. That doubting is a normal part of growing a relationship. Even a simple game we play as children can reflect this: he loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves me not. We all hope for “he or she loves me”!
I also thought about how life would be if it were easy to believe. Take a pill. Read a short pamphlet at the dentist office. Take an online class. After many, many years of thinking about faith and belief, it is my opinion it is like exercise. You need to build up your level of strength and endurance with slow and sure progress. Get into shape, as they say in the fitness world. Not only getting into shape, but maintaining our strength and endurance with regular "exercising" of our faith. Belief spurs action!
Even while we are exercising and growing our faith and belief, It is OK to be like Thomas. Put aside the title of “Doubting Thomas” and focus on his belief. Focus on the love of Jesus as he met Thomas’s doubts with love and compassion. Always remember that Jesus will do the same for us today as we ask questions and as we have doubts. Whether or not we want to admit it, Jesus knows our doubts just like he did those of Thomas. He calls us to him any way.
Charlotte Elliott wrote the hymn “Just As I Am” in 1834. She had been an invalid for many years, and though she wanted to help with a fund-raiser for a girl’s school, she was too ill. She felt useless, and this inner distress caused her to begin doubting her faith in Christ. She wrote “Just As I Am” as a response to her doubt. The crux of her distress is perhaps best expressed in these words:
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come!
Haven't we all felt like that at one time or another? Your homework for this week is to think about one of your doubts. Talk and listen to God through prayer, Bible study, and meditation. If you are not sure what to pray, say the Lord’s Prayer or Nicene Creed or create your own collect. Like Thomas, let us move past our doubts to serve our Risen Lord.
Always remember the words of Jesus: Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet still believe.
Amen
*****************************************
Nicknames can be a funny thing in our culture. Or they can be embarrassing or hurtful. For example, my youngest sister, Patricia Louise, didn’t tell her husband about her childhood nickname. She tried to shed that nickname in her teenage years, but the family didn’t get the memo. After she heard her husband answer the phone one day “I am sorry, but there is no one here named 'Lulu'”, she had to fess up! They had been married about five years at the time! Some of my nicknames are “Fitz” from my last name, “Dooooo-ane” from the way I spell Duane, or my high school Spanish teacher gave me a nickname because there was not a Spanish translation for “Duane”. He called me Duano. Yes, the jokes never get old with that one!
The Gospel passage today gave way to a nickname for one of the apostles that almost everyone is familiar with: Doubting Thomas. It is not really a fair nickname in my opinion. We don’t know a lot about Thomas from the Bible. Most of the references about him are from the Book of John, the only Gospel to tell the “Doubting Thomas” story. It is interesting that in the references where Thomas speaks, he seems to be the thoughtful, dedicated one. I chuckled to myself that he sounded very Episcopalian! He seems to think through things on his own, makes the decision to act, and then follows through with it! Thomas showed more loyalty to Christ than many of the others in John 11. When the Pharisees were actively seeking to kill Him, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us go to Judea again” (John 11:7). Thomas is the one who said, “Let us also go that we may die with Him” (v. 16). During the last supper story in John 14, Thomas asks this question after Jesus tells them that he goes to prepare a place for them “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Thomas seems to ask the tough questions. In the Gospel passage for today, Thomas expresses his doubts, but then acknowledges Jesus and follows through with his faith.
The Bible doesn’t tell us what Thomas did after this experience. Tradition says that at the dispersal of the Apostles after Pentecost this saint was sent to evangelize the Parthians, Medes, and Persians; he ultimately reached India, carrying the Faith to the Malabar coast, which still boasts a large native population calling themselves "Christians of St. Thomas."
I wonder what it would be like to experience the lives of the disciples. Being a “techy”, computer geek kind of guy, I think it would be cool if we could have a virtual reality machine to simulate what they saw. Unfortunately, there is NOT an app for that! If I created one, I would call it the Virtual Disciple app or maybe iDisciple! If you are not familiar with the term virtual reality or don’t have a smart phone or fancy tablet, we will do this the old-fashioned way - use our imaginations!
Imagine Jesus calling you while you are fishing. You don’t know why you drop everything to follow him, but you know it is the right thing to do.
Imagine watching him teaching in the temple, casting out demons, healing the sick, feeding the thousands, and calming the sea with just his words.
Imagine marching triumphantly into Jerusalem waving palms and singing Hosanna!
Imagine the dark times as you watch your teacher die on the cross.
Imagine Jesus appearing to you after his resurrection with his hands outstretched: “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
We have an huge advantage over the disciples of that day — we know how the story ends!
Even if we did have the opportunity to experience Jesus amongst us like Thomas and the disciples, what difference would it really make in our lives? We might be looking over our shoulders waiting for Allen Funt to jump out and say “You’re on Candid Camera” or Ashton Kutcher showing up to say “You’ve been punked!” In my opinion, we are even more skeptical today than Thomas was in his.
Some friends of mine told me how skeptical and questioning their children are. Most of the children were in their 20s and early 30s. They want nothing to do with organized religion. The parents did their best to be a good example of what a believing, church-attending Christian should be. I have LGBT friends that feel the same way. What can we do to lead these folks to God?
It is my opinion that we should share our doubts, just like Thomas did. Show them that being skeptical is OK. That doubting is a normal part of growing a relationship. Even a simple game we play as children can reflect this: he loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves me not. We all hope for “he or she loves me”!
I also thought about how life would be if it were easy to believe. Take a pill. Read a short pamphlet at the dentist office. Take an online class. After many, many years of thinking about faith and belief, it is my opinion it is like exercise. You need to build up your level of strength and endurance with slow and sure progress. Get into shape, as they say in the fitness world. Not only getting into shape, but maintaining our strength and endurance with regular "exercising" of our faith. Belief spurs action!
Even while we are exercising and growing our faith and belief, It is OK to be like Thomas. Put aside the title of “Doubting Thomas” and focus on his belief. Focus on the love of Jesus as he met Thomas’s doubts with love and compassion. Always remember that Jesus will do the same for us today as we ask questions and as we have doubts. Whether or not we want to admit it, Jesus knows our doubts just like he did those of Thomas. He calls us to him any way.
Charlotte Elliott wrote the hymn “Just As I Am” in 1834. She had been an invalid for many years, and though she wanted to help with a fund-raiser for a girl’s school, she was too ill. She felt useless, and this inner distress caused her to begin doubting her faith in Christ. She wrote “Just As I Am” as a response to her doubt. The crux of her distress is perhaps best expressed in these words:
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come!
Haven't we all felt like that at one time or another? Your homework for this week is to think about one of your doubts. Talk and listen to God through prayer, Bible study, and meditation. If you are not sure what to pray, say the Lord’s Prayer or Nicene Creed or create your own collect. Like Thomas, let us move past our doubts to serve our Risen Lord.
Always remember the words of Jesus: Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet still believe.
Amen
**********************************
References:
http://biblehub.com/topical/t/thomas.htm
http://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/new-testament/gopel-of-john-commentary-who-wrote-the-gospel-of-john-and-how-historical-is-it/
The Intepreter's Bible, Volume 8, pages 794-801
https://www.blueletterbible.org/study/intros/john.cfm
http://justus.anglican.org/resources/bio/301.html
http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=410
Friday, April 10, 2015
Giving
Our Daily Bread
One of the Year Four folks shared this story from their weekly reading assignment. A visitor to a very poor country spent as much time trying to understand and help the less fortunate folks living there. He met a mother and son who survived on the very meager amount of coins the boy could beg for each day. When the boy arrived and proudly gave his mother the coins, the mother promptly put some of the coins in a small jar. When the visitor asked the mother what the money in the jar was for, expecting to hear she was saving up for something, she meekly replied "Oh, that money is for the poor." She shared with others despite her own need and dire circumstances.
As I was going through my closets pulling our old or unwanted clothes, I looked at my abundance with shame. Even though I try to share my abundance with those less fortunate, the stacks of unused clothes was a monument to my selfishness. I will take a picture of that monument. I will take a picture of closets and drawers still filled with clothes and shoes. I will remember. I will do better.
What about you?
Foodie Friday
Did you see the recall notice from a major hummus manufacturer this week? If you like hummus, it is pretty easy to make your own. Heck, I can do it! Here is the basic recipe I use. You can add or subtract to suit your taste. For example, I use a lot more garlic. I also found tahini on sale at Meijer, which gives the hummus an earthier taste. I sometimes omit the tahini if I don't have any. (FYI, I posted this previously in my blog...)
Lemon Garlic Hummus
Ingredients:
1 15 oz. can chickpeas or garbanzo beans
1 teaspoon minced garlic or 2 cloves garlic, crushed
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth. Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus. Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well. Serve immediately with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.
I usually serve this with flavored pita chips or multigrain chips. My friend makes fresh toasted pita chips with a little garlic button on them. Enjoy!
One of the Year Four folks shared this story from their weekly reading assignment. A visitor to a very poor country spent as much time trying to understand and help the less fortunate folks living there. He met a mother and son who survived on the very meager amount of coins the boy could beg for each day. When the boy arrived and proudly gave his mother the coins, the mother promptly put some of the coins in a small jar. When the visitor asked the mother what the money in the jar was for, expecting to hear she was saving up for something, she meekly replied "Oh, that money is for the poor." She shared with others despite her own need and dire circumstances.
As I was going through my closets pulling our old or unwanted clothes, I looked at my abundance with shame. Even though I try to share my abundance with those less fortunate, the stacks of unused clothes was a monument to my selfishness. I will take a picture of that monument. I will take a picture of closets and drawers still filled with clothes and shoes. I will remember. I will do better.
What about you?
Foodie Friday
Did you see the recall notice from a major hummus manufacturer this week? If you like hummus, it is pretty easy to make your own. Heck, I can do it! Here is the basic recipe I use. You can add or subtract to suit your taste. For example, I use a lot more garlic. I also found tahini on sale at Meijer, which gives the hummus an earthier taste. I sometimes omit the tahini if I don't have any. (FYI, I posted this previously in my blog...)
Lemon Garlic Hummus
Ingredients:
1 15 oz. can chickpeas or garbanzo beans
1 teaspoon minced garlic or 2 cloves garlic, crushed
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth. Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus. Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well. Serve immediately with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.
I usually serve this with flavored pita chips or multigrain chips. My friend makes fresh toasted pita chips with a little garlic button on them. Enjoy!
****************************************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Happier than a pig in mud
Our Daily Bread
One of the things I liked about living in Central Kentucky for several years was hearing the colloquialisms. "Happier than a pig in mud" was one of those sayings. I learned from my grandmother that pigs really did like mud because it kept them cool and comfortable in the hot summer heat.
Unfortunately, humans can be just like pigs. LOL When the heat is on, we can feel cool and comfortable in our mud. You know what I mean -- the things in our lives or behavior patterns that we know we need to put behind us. Falling back into the mud seems too familiar to give up even when we know the mud isn't good for us.
Let us ask God to create in us a CLEAN heart and mind. Let us not fall back into the mud even when it seems to call us seductively. We can do this!
Gonna wash that mud right out of my life...and send its on its way..." Loosely adapted from South Pacific
Technology Thursday
After waitng a couple of months to receive an "invitation" and then waiting another few months for the product to arrive, I finally received my Amazon Echo yesterday. Click on this link to view Amazon's description.
Because I was a patient bear (and an Amazon Prime member), I bought the Echo for half price, $99 instead of the $199 list price. It looks like the next group of Prime members to purchase will only get $50 off. Hmmmm. You still have to request an invitation. My boss has still not received his invitation even though we requested them about the same time.
The Echo was packaged in a flat black box that just looked like it contained something special. The box contained the Echo device, a remote, batteries for the remote and an adapter for the Echo device. It cannot run on batteries alone. It must be plugged in.
I downloaded the Echo app on my iPhone. Echo (her name is Alexa) and the app walked me through the login and setup. It was very simple. I was asking Alexa questions in j ust a few minutes. "Alexa" is the "wake up word" for the device. You say that name and then the command, like "Alexa, did the Cavaliers win last night?" or "Alexa, play some Amy Grant music". Very cool.
The device also includes Bluetooth so you can use it as a Bluetooth speaker system. Being the music geek I am, I had to try it. Playing music from my iPhone was pleasant and had a nice sound as long as I didn't turn it up too loud. Jacking up the volume also jacked up the distortion.
Some of the voice-command features I will use Alexa for are:
I also plan to use the app to schedule things and pick up the things I told Alexa about my shopping list, reminders, etc. Very cool.
I tried this because it is a new, inexpensive, interesting technology. Amazon plans to expand the functionality as they go. All I know is that this saves me from writing some thing like it from scratch!
******************************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
One of the things I liked about living in Central Kentucky for several years was hearing the colloquialisms. "Happier than a pig in mud" was one of those sayings. I learned from my grandmother that pigs really did like mud because it kept them cool and comfortable in the hot summer heat.
Unfortunately, humans can be just like pigs. LOL When the heat is on, we can feel cool and comfortable in our mud. You know what I mean -- the things in our lives or behavior patterns that we know we need to put behind us. Falling back into the mud seems too familiar to give up even when we know the mud isn't good for us.
Let us ask God to create in us a CLEAN heart and mind. Let us not fall back into the mud even when it seems to call us seductively. We can do this!
Gonna wash that mud right out of my life...and send its on its way..." Loosely adapted from South Pacific
Technology Thursday
After waitng a couple of months to receive an "invitation" and then waiting another few months for the product to arrive, I finally received my Amazon Echo yesterday. Click on this link to view Amazon's description.
Because I was a patient bear (and an Amazon Prime member), I bought the Echo for half price, $99 instead of the $199 list price. It looks like the next group of Prime members to purchase will only get $50 off. Hmmmm. You still have to request an invitation. My boss has still not received his invitation even though we requested them about the same time.
The Echo was packaged in a flat black box that just looked like it contained something special. The box contained the Echo device, a remote, batteries for the remote and an adapter for the Echo device. It cannot run on batteries alone. It must be plugged in.
I downloaded the Echo app on my iPhone. Echo (her name is Alexa) and the app walked me through the login and setup. It was very simple. I was asking Alexa questions in j ust a few minutes. "Alexa" is the "wake up word" for the device. You say that name and then the command, like "Alexa, did the Cavaliers win last night?" or "Alexa, play some Amy Grant music". Very cool.
The device also includes Bluetooth so you can use it as a Bluetooth speaker system. Being the music geek I am, I had to try it. Playing music from my iPhone was pleasant and had a nice sound as long as I didn't turn it up too loud. Jacking up the volume also jacked up the distortion.
Some of the voice-command features I will use Alexa for are:
- Setting alarms when I am cooking
- Having her add items to my shopping list
- Set reminders
- Asking simple questions when my hands are full or dirty while cooking
I also plan to use the app to schedule things and pick up the things I told Alexa about my shopping list, reminders, etc. Very cool.
I tried this because it is a new, inexpensive, interesting technology. Amazon plans to expand the functionality as they go. All I know is that this saves me from writing some thing like it from scratch!
******************************************
We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives
Its time for us to more than just survive
We were made to thrive
- Thrive by Casting Crowns
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
The world's best smelling garage
Our Daily Bread
I am always teasing my poor roommate about something -- even when he is trying to get considerate. He recently decided, after renting a room from me for most of the last 3.5 years, that he needed to apply cologne in the garage instead of the guest bathroom he uses. I noticed one more that I didn't smell the usual blast of cologne when I opened my bedroom door (yes, he wears a lot of cologne at times). When I opened the garage door -- WOOOSH! -- I was enveloped by the smell of his latest favorite scent. I sent him an instant message at work "Wow, the garage smelled amazing this morning!" Yes, I am a silly old bear!
The point of this silly story is that God can sometimes send us fragrant scents from unexpected places in our lives. Whether it be in a garage or some ministry we are not quite sure about, our generous acts of love toward others are like a “sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God” (Phil. 4:18).
Think about what loving act you will do for someone today, and then stop and smell the sweet-smelling aroma.
Wellness Wednesday
After watching my roommate start exercising again and getting some nice results, I am a little more motivated to try exercising and weight loss again. I try to watch what I eat, but I keep going back to my old joke: I hold on to my bad eating habits tighter than a box of Hohos on a Saturday night! Heavy sign... I do eat better than before, but I need to do even better and be consistent.
My exercise routine has been interrupted by severe hip pain. I have a doctor appointment the end of April to have it seen. I was told two years ago that I had arthritis starting in my left hip. I will see how things look now and find out what I can do to remain active.
I write these things not to have a pity party for myself, but to encourage you and me to find ways to stay active. I found some yoga routines for men that would help. Tai Chi is not very stressful on the body. It is very effective with its breating and stretching routines.
We can do this. Say it with me: We can do this!
***************************************
We accept the love we think we deserve -- from the Perks of Being a Wallflower
I am always teasing my poor roommate about something -- even when he is trying to get considerate. He recently decided, after renting a room from me for most of the last 3.5 years, that he needed to apply cologne in the garage instead of the guest bathroom he uses. I noticed one more that I didn't smell the usual blast of cologne when I opened my bedroom door (yes, he wears a lot of cologne at times). When I opened the garage door -- WOOOSH! -- I was enveloped by the smell of his latest favorite scent. I sent him an instant message at work "Wow, the garage smelled amazing this morning!" Yes, I am a silly old bear!
The point of this silly story is that God can sometimes send us fragrant scents from unexpected places in our lives. Whether it be in a garage or some ministry we are not quite sure about, our generous acts of love toward others are like a “sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God” (Phil. 4:18).
Think about what loving act you will do for someone today, and then stop and smell the sweet-smelling aroma.
Wellness Wednesday
After watching my roommate start exercising again and getting some nice results, I am a little more motivated to try exercising and weight loss again. I try to watch what I eat, but I keep going back to my old joke: I hold on to my bad eating habits tighter than a box of Hohos on a Saturday night! Heavy sign... I do eat better than before, but I need to do even better and be consistent.
My exercise routine has been interrupted by severe hip pain. I have a doctor appointment the end of April to have it seen. I was told two years ago that I had arthritis starting in my left hip. I will see how things look now and find out what I can do to remain active.
I write these things not to have a pity party for myself, but to encourage you and me to find ways to stay active. I found some yoga routines for men that would help. Tai Chi is not very stressful on the body. It is very effective with its breating and stretching routines.
We can do this. Say it with me: We can do this!
***************************************
We accept the love we think we deserve -- from the Perks of Being a Wallflower
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Sink hole
Our Daily Bread
Have you read about the large sink holes that have mysteriously opened up around the U.S. and around the world? Here is an example:
It is hard to believe that these things just open up and swallow everything built on it, like the picture above from Guatemala in 2010. Some Corvettes also got swallowed up by a sink hole in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Nooooooo! LOL
The devotional today talks about Christ's words instructing us to build our "house" on solid ground. A life built on the solid foundation of Christ's message (notice I said Christ's message and not Christ) is one that can stand up to the storms that we each face. There are no surprise sink holes! What is your life built on?
Lord, you give us instruction on how to live our lives. Please help us to listen and learn.
Teaching Tuesday
I haven't written much about it, but I started Year 3 in my Education for Ministry (EFM) class in September 2014. Most folks think that year three is the most grueling because church history is the focus of the studies. EFM begain using a new book last year -- about 1,000 pages of reference material (in my opinion). It is a difficult read to say the least with all the dates, names, details, etc, The author is very, very thorough, but doesn't seem to link things together very well (again, just my opinion).
The experience of reading this stuff has been more difficult than reading the Old Testament for me. We can "write off" some of the horrible things written in the Old Testament to the fact that they happened before Jesus and folks just didn't know better. The study of church history is after the time of Jesus. Christians have no excuse after the example Christ set for us!
We are in week 30 of a 36 week class. I finally realized that instead of getting discouraged by all the horrible story about Christians and the things they did (and some continue to do today), that I can marvel in church history much like I do the Old Testament stories now. I am AMAZED how God can use normal, flawed people to carry His Message. He continues to do so today if we just give ourselves to him.
************************************************
John 20:29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Have you read about the large sink holes that have mysteriously opened up around the U.S. and around the world? Here is an example:
It is hard to believe that these things just open up and swallow everything built on it, like the picture above from Guatemala in 2010. Some Corvettes also got swallowed up by a sink hole in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Nooooooo! LOL
The devotional today talks about Christ's words instructing us to build our "house" on solid ground. A life built on the solid foundation of Christ's message (notice I said Christ's message and not Christ) is one that can stand up to the storms that we each face. There are no surprise sink holes! What is your life built on?
Lord, you give us instruction on how to live our lives. Please help us to listen and learn.
Teaching Tuesday
I haven't written much about it, but I started Year 3 in my Education for Ministry (EFM) class in September 2014. Most folks think that year three is the most grueling because church history is the focus of the studies. EFM begain using a new book last year -- about 1,000 pages of reference material (in my opinion). It is a difficult read to say the least with all the dates, names, details, etc, The author is very, very thorough, but doesn't seem to link things together very well (again, just my opinion).
The experience of reading this stuff has been more difficult than reading the Old Testament for me. We can "write off" some of the horrible things written in the Old Testament to the fact that they happened before Jesus and folks just didn't know better. The study of church history is after the time of Jesus. Christians have no excuse after the example Christ set for us!
We are in week 30 of a 36 week class. I finally realized that instead of getting discouraged by all the horrible story about Christians and the things they did (and some continue to do today), that I can marvel in church history much like I do the Old Testament stories now. I am AMAZED how God can use normal, flawed people to carry His Message. He continues to do so today if we just give ourselves to him.
************************************************
John 20:29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Monday, April 6, 2015
Beeeelllliiiieeeeeeeeevvvveeee!
Our Daily Bread
I am sometimes irreverent when thinking about the faith of others that I do not agree with or understand. Take, for example, the over-the-top faith healers on TV that provide emotional displays of showmanship. They can touch someone's head and tell them to "just beeeee-liiiieeevveeeee!". I am usually the one putting my palm to my own face when I see these things. Lord, forgive me where I am wrong!
I thought how life would be if it were that easy to have more faith. Take a pill. Read a short pamphlet at the dentist office. Take an online class. Write a blog...wait a minute! LOL After many, many years of thinking about faith, I learned it is like exercise. You need to build up your level of strength and endurance with slow and sure progress. Get into shape, as they say in the fitness world. Not only getting into shape, but maintaining our strength and endurance with regular "exercising" of our faith.
Thomas believed that Jesus arose from the grave because he experienced him in person. Jesus encouraged him then, and encourages us today with this statement: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. —John 20:29
Lord, I believe. Please help my unbelief.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Furious 7 last Friday afternoon. I am a fan of the series, though I haven't necessarily like all of the movies in the series. As one friend described this installment "if you like the series, you will love this Furious 7". I completely agree. It has the fun, suspend-all-belief action and stunts, and fast cars that you come to expect from the best of the movies.
Furious 7 added Jason Statham (Transporter movies, Safe, etc) as the villain. He plays the brother of the man the Toretto family killed in Fast and Furious 6. There were lots of cool fight scenes.
Lastly, there was the added layer of the memorial of Paul Walker, who died in a car crash in 2013. There were some touching moments as movie paid tribute to the star of most of the series (he was not in one of the earlier movies).
I give this three out of four bear paws. Definitely see it at the theater on the large screen.
****************************************
Revivals greatest enemy is Pride, and the only bride Revival will walk down the isle with is Humility. Humility will deny herself the right of self gratification rather than turn away from God to fulfill her own pleasures, and she will not allow herself to receive the praise that should go to another (especially the Lord). Finally, she will rush to renounce herself, rather than sitting quietly when her Lord is robed of His glory. Oh, Father, we are so unlike her, but may we meet her so that we may walk down the isle to Revival and true Christlikeness? from Jonathan Edwards on Humility in Religious Affections
I am sometimes irreverent when thinking about the faith of others that I do not agree with or understand. Take, for example, the over-the-top faith healers on TV that provide emotional displays of showmanship. They can touch someone's head and tell them to "just beeeee-liiiieeevveeeee!". I am usually the one putting my palm to my own face when I see these things. Lord, forgive me where I am wrong!
I thought how life would be if it were that easy to have more faith. Take a pill. Read a short pamphlet at the dentist office. Take an online class. Write a blog...wait a minute! LOL After many, many years of thinking about faith, I learned it is like exercise. You need to build up your level of strength and endurance with slow and sure progress. Get into shape, as they say in the fitness world. Not only getting into shape, but maintaining our strength and endurance with regular "exercising" of our faith.
Thomas believed that Jesus arose from the grave because he experienced him in person. Jesus encouraged him then, and encourages us today with this statement: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. —John 20:29
Lord, I believe. Please help my unbelief.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Furious 7 last Friday afternoon. I am a fan of the series, though I haven't necessarily like all of the movies in the series. As one friend described this installment "if you like the series, you will love this Furious 7". I completely agree. It has the fun, suspend-all-belief action and stunts, and fast cars that you come to expect from the best of the movies.
Furious 7 added Jason Statham (Transporter movies, Safe, etc) as the villain. He plays the brother of the man the Toretto family killed in Fast and Furious 6. There were lots of cool fight scenes.
Lastly, there was the added layer of the memorial of Paul Walker, who died in a car crash in 2013. There were some touching moments as movie paid tribute to the star of most of the series (he was not in one of the earlier movies).
I give this three out of four bear paws. Definitely see it at the theater on the large screen.
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Revivals greatest enemy is Pride, and the only bride Revival will walk down the isle with is Humility. Humility will deny herself the right of self gratification rather than turn away from God to fulfill her own pleasures, and she will not allow herself to receive the praise that should go to another (especially the Lord). Finally, she will rush to renounce herself, rather than sitting quietly when her Lord is robed of His glory. Oh, Father, we are so unlike her, but may we meet her so that we may walk down the isle to Revival and true Christlikeness? from Jonathan Edwards on Humility in Religious Affections
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Easter 2015
He is Risen!!!
Alleluia!
John 20 New International Version (NIV)
The Empty Tomb
20 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2 So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”
3 So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4 Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5 He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7 as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. 8 Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9 (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) 10 Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”
“They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
15 He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?”
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”
16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.”
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).
17 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.
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