Christmas is a busy, stressful, high-pressure time of year for many. It can also be exciting, relaxing and playful. One of my daughters gave me a great compliment, although I suspect it was not meant that way. She asked “Why do you act like Buddy?”
I, of course, responded with, “Buddy who?”
“The guy from Elf!”
Now that’s a compliment! Acting like Buddy means being carefree, funny, child-like in faith and a little psychotic and stupid. In my mind, those qualities aren’t too bad. Sometimes adults lose sight of what’s important. Most of the time it takes a child to remind us of what’s important. Make a point, this Christmas season to act like Buddy. You may want to stay away from jumping into your Christmas tree or adding sugar and sprinkles to your spaghetti. But singing loudly in the shower or playing on the escalators … Oh, that reminds me of a time when Delaney and Ashlyn were around 5 and 7 years old. We were in the mall one day – Dillard’s, I think. Shirley was looking at stuff and we were bored. Me and Boredom = goofy! We ran to the escalators and started riding them upstairs while goofing around. Once, at the top, we ran to the other side and rode down. After a few minutes, we were riding up and down as fast as we could; while standing on one leg, laying down, stretching our legs apart like Buddy. Needless to say, the employees at the make-up counter were fascinated by our new game. Most stopped and laughed. There were a couple who were not amused by our antics. The girls had no idea anyone was watching, much less unhappy with our fun. They just played up and down. Who knew escalators could be so entertaining?
This Christmas season, maybe we should all find a flight of escalators and not worry so much about what others think. Maybe we should relax and lighten up. Maybe we should act a little more like Buddy instead of his father.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Tonight's Coming Apocalypse
Tonight, the Who Dat Nation will rise from the corners of the earth bringing judgment and wrath from the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Riding into the dome with thunderous applause, each rider breaks his seal. The first to enter is the White Horse of Conquest. Conquest is best represented by attitude. From the moment the Saints walk onto the field, they believe they will win. Their winning attitude starts with the chant. The horsemen surround their leader, beginning the chant – bringing their attitude of conquest.
The second horse to enter is the Red Horse of War. War is won in the trenches. Those who ride the Red Horse are the offensive and defensive linemen. They battle the entire game, blocking, pushing, protecting and tackling. The war is won on the backs of the men riding the red horse into the trenches.
The third horse is Black – Famine. On the field, our backs and receivers bring famine to opposing teams. Opposing defenses are left starving on the barren wasteland as the unstoppable scoring machine victoriously adds point after point.
The fourth and final horse is Pale – Death. This horse is ridden by one man – the #1 quarterback in the NFL, Drew Brees. His high-potent passing game brings the final blows leading to death. Just when an opponent thinks they have a chance, Drew leads a game-changing scoring drive; crushing the hopes and dreams of once brave men. Death comes every time the ball leaves his hands.
So tonight, as the Cowboys sheepishly make their way into the dome, the Horsemen will be waiting. Judgment is coming, boys. White, Red, Black and Pale – these four colors bleed together forming the purest shades of black and gold. The Who Dat Nation is rising from the corners of the earth bringing Conquest, War, Famine and Death to all who oppose. Who Dat, Who Dat, Who Dat, Rise Up!
The second horse to enter is the Red Horse of War. War is won in the trenches. Those who ride the Red Horse are the offensive and defensive linemen. They battle the entire game, blocking, pushing, protecting and tackling. The war is won on the backs of the men riding the red horse into the trenches.
The third horse is Black – Famine. On the field, our backs and receivers bring famine to opposing teams. Opposing defenses are left starving on the barren wasteland as the unstoppable scoring machine victoriously adds point after point.
The fourth and final horse is Pale – Death. This horse is ridden by one man – the #1 quarterback in the NFL, Drew Brees. His high-potent passing game brings the final blows leading to death. Just when an opponent thinks they have a chance, Drew leads a game-changing scoring drive; crushing the hopes and dreams of once brave men. Death comes every time the ball leaves his hands.
So tonight, as the Cowboys sheepishly make their way into the dome, the Horsemen will be waiting. Judgment is coming, boys. White, Red, Black and Pale – these four colors bleed together forming the purest shades of black and gold. The Who Dat Nation is rising from the corners of the earth bringing Conquest, War, Famine and Death to all who oppose. Who Dat, Who Dat, Who Dat, Rise Up!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Pulled Over for Drug Trafficing
Can’t remember if I have written this story of not. If so, too bad! Read it again! Our daughters were young. Delaney was around 2 and Ashlyn was a few months old. We were moving from New Orleans to Knoxville. I’ll spare you the details of packing the 24-ft U-Haul with two little ones tagging along. We had a few items to pick up in Mobile so we were heading East on I-10 when it happened.
Yep! Mississippi Troopers!
Looking in the side mirror, I noticed a state trooper behind me with his lights on. Knowing I wasn’t speeding because the pedal was all the way to the floor and I was only going 60 mph. Delaney was riding with me and Ashlyn was riding with Shirley in our van. When I pulled over, Shirley stopped ahead also. Two officers stepped from the patrol car. Walking cautiously, one eased toward the driver side of the moving van. The other climbed onto the car trailer that carried my 1980 faded-brown Mazda GLC. It looked like a beat-up Chevette. Needless to say, I became worried when one drew his gun. I decided the best thing to do was raise my hands so they could be seen.
The officer on my side asked for my license and said, “Keep your hands so I can see them!” He left. Looking through the mirrors without moving my head, I watched the other officer climb all around the trailer.
The officer returned. He asked nearly 300 questions about “who” I was and “where” I was going. Apparently, satisfied with my answers he said, “We are looking for a drug trafficker fitting your description.”
“My description?”
“Yes, they are posing as a family moving.”
“You don’t need to worry, officer. I stopped drug dealing years ago.”
Did you know some officers don’t have sarcastic humor? I found out! Obviously, he wasn’t amused.
He then said, “They’re pulling a car almost exactly like yours.”
“If a drug dealer is pulling a car like mine, he’s not too good at his job, is he?”
Have you ever heard that timing is everything? Once again, officer not amused. It was one of those note to self moments - never use sarcasm with troopers.
We were allowed to leave without further incident. I don't think the church I was going to as student minister thought it was funny I was almost arrested on the way to lead their youth. Maybe one day I’ll write about that little Mazda and the time my brother and I were arrested for attempted armed robbery! Now that’s a funny story.
Yep! Mississippi Troopers!
Looking in the side mirror, I noticed a state trooper behind me with his lights on. Knowing I wasn’t speeding because the pedal was all the way to the floor and I was only going 60 mph. Delaney was riding with me and Ashlyn was riding with Shirley in our van. When I pulled over, Shirley stopped ahead also. Two officers stepped from the patrol car. Walking cautiously, one eased toward the driver side of the moving van. The other climbed onto the car trailer that carried my 1980 faded-brown Mazda GLC. It looked like a beat-up Chevette. Needless to say, I became worried when one drew his gun. I decided the best thing to do was raise my hands so they could be seen.
The officer on my side asked for my license and said, “Keep your hands so I can see them!” He left. Looking through the mirrors without moving my head, I watched the other officer climb all around the trailer.
The officer returned. He asked nearly 300 questions about “who” I was and “where” I was going. Apparently, satisfied with my answers he said, “We are looking for a drug trafficker fitting your description.”
“My description?”
“Yes, they are posing as a family moving.”
“You don’t need to worry, officer. I stopped drug dealing years ago.”
Did you know some officers don’t have sarcastic humor? I found out! Obviously, he wasn’t amused.
He then said, “They’re pulling a car almost exactly like yours.”
“If a drug dealer is pulling a car like mine, he’s not too good at his job, is he?”
Have you ever heard that timing is everything? Once again, officer not amused. It was one of those note to self moments - never use sarcasm with troopers.
We were allowed to leave without further incident. I don't think the church I was going to as student minister thought it was funny I was almost arrested on the way to lead their youth. Maybe one day I’ll write about that little Mazda and the time my brother and I were arrested for attempted armed robbery! Now that’s a funny story.
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Real Tombstone
Take a deep breath and relax. Close your eyes. Wait, forget that, you need to keep them open so you can finish reading this. Relax and picture yourself standing over a mountain lake. The water is crystal clear although you’re not at Camp Crystal Lake. The tall majestic southern pines provide cool shade on a warm afternoon. The smell of spring is in the air. Wild flowers are blooming and butterflies dance like fairies across the picturesque sky. Just a few bright, puffy clouds can be seen in the distance. Kneeling, you pick up a small, flat stone. Rubbing the dirt away, you fling the stone into the flat water – it skips once, twice, three times before sinking. You pick up another. This time it skips five times. Take another deep breath.
If you’re like me, you loved skipping rocks when you were a kid. It didn’t matter where – Mobile Bay, Big Creek Lake, Chickasabogue Creek, or even a ditch. Water was water and skipping rocks was cool. Even now, when I’m around the water, I look for a rock. Rocks are important when you’re a kid. I remember collecting them; pretending they were made of solid gold.
The Bible is full of references to rocks. In fact, Jesus is called the Rock of Salvation, the Rock of Refuge and the Spiritual Rock. There are too many references to list but here are a few: Psalm 18:1-3, 27:5, Proverbs 30:19, I Corinthians 10:4 and Matthew 16:18 when Jesus tells Peter upon his faith the Church will be established.
The Bible even tells us that the rocks will cry out in praise if we don’t. Can you imagine that - rocks singing the praise of the Father in our place? There’s one particular rock I wonder about. The one that sealed Christ’s tomb. That rock was rolled away. I wonder if it sang praise to the risen Lord as His resurrection power touched it. It must have! After all, don’t we cry out with praise when His resurrection power touches us? I just have to believe that rock felt His presence and couldn’t help but unleash praise!
So the next time you’re close to a body of water, look for a rock. Sling it into the water. Every time it skips, shout hallelujah as His resurrection power touches you again.
If you’re like me, you loved skipping rocks when you were a kid. It didn’t matter where – Mobile Bay, Big Creek Lake, Chickasabogue Creek, or even a ditch. Water was water and skipping rocks was cool. Even now, when I’m around the water, I look for a rock. Rocks are important when you’re a kid. I remember collecting them; pretending they were made of solid gold.
The Bible is full of references to rocks. In fact, Jesus is called the Rock of Salvation, the Rock of Refuge and the Spiritual Rock. There are too many references to list but here are a few: Psalm 18:1-3, 27:5, Proverbs 30:19, I Corinthians 10:4 and Matthew 16:18 when Jesus tells Peter upon his faith the Church will be established.
The Bible even tells us that the rocks will cry out in praise if we don’t. Can you imagine that - rocks singing the praise of the Father in our place? There’s one particular rock I wonder about. The one that sealed Christ’s tomb. That rock was rolled away. I wonder if it sang praise to the risen Lord as His resurrection power touched it. It must have! After all, don’t we cry out with praise when His resurrection power touches us? I just have to believe that rock felt His presence and couldn’t help but unleash praise!
So the next time you’re close to a body of water, look for a rock. Sling it into the water. Every time it skips, shout hallelujah as His resurrection power touches you again.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Whatever You Do, DON'T LOOK!
Someone must have put a voodoo hex on me.
Tuesday: I discovered one of my favorite shirts had a hole in the elbow. Not just a small pin prick but a huge hole – as wide as the Gulf of Mexico. Big deal, right? I discovered the hole halfway through the day. It’s not like I had another shirt to change into! There I was all afternoon having people stare; wondering why I wore such old, worn-out shirts. And it was a favorite. Threw the shirt away.
Wednesday: Halfway through the day, I discovered old coffee stains on my pants. Not just any pair of pants but a pair I actually like! Coffee stains – old coffee stains. Does anyone know how to remove coffee from your clothes? What’s worse, I didn’t have time to change before church so I walked around all night with stained pants! People shaking their heads again. The trash runs on Thursday so when I got home, I took the can to the street. While skillfully preparing to roll the can from the garage, I noticed the back of my truck blocked my way. The can was too wide to get through the space. No, the can didn’t grow; whoever parked the truck in the garage didn’t pull up far enough! Trying to save time, I picked up the can over the back of the truck. It’s one of those big ones with wheels. After putting the can down and starting to roll it down the driveway, I noticed goop all over my robe and pajamas. Yes, I have a robe. Have you ever looked into the bottom of your trash can? If not, don’t! It’s a trap – kinda like looking at the placenta after your child is born. I remember when our first daughter, Delaney, was born. I received some wonderful advice from a stupid old man in our church. He said, “no matter what happens, don’t look at the placenta.” You guessed it; he wanted to share the joy of his experience. Obviously, that makes it like a train wreck – you know you shouldn’t look but you can’t help it. That’s the way it is with your trash can – I’m telling you don’t look. I was covered with this liquid goop made up of coffee, tea, water, old food, cat litter, and a host of yet to be determined atomic material. Needless to say, I spent the evening washing my robe and pajamas. They stunk! Hoping nothing happens today!
Tuesday: I discovered one of my favorite shirts had a hole in the elbow. Not just a small pin prick but a huge hole – as wide as the Gulf of Mexico. Big deal, right? I discovered the hole halfway through the day. It’s not like I had another shirt to change into! There I was all afternoon having people stare; wondering why I wore such old, worn-out shirts. And it was a favorite. Threw the shirt away.
Wednesday: Halfway through the day, I discovered old coffee stains on my pants. Not just any pair of pants but a pair I actually like! Coffee stains – old coffee stains. Does anyone know how to remove coffee from your clothes? What’s worse, I didn’t have time to change before church so I walked around all night with stained pants! People shaking their heads again. The trash runs on Thursday so when I got home, I took the can to the street. While skillfully preparing to roll the can from the garage, I noticed the back of my truck blocked my way. The can was too wide to get through the space. No, the can didn’t grow; whoever parked the truck in the garage didn’t pull up far enough! Trying to save time, I picked up the can over the back of the truck. It’s one of those big ones with wheels. After putting the can down and starting to roll it down the driveway, I noticed goop all over my robe and pajamas. Yes, I have a robe. Have you ever looked into the bottom of your trash can? If not, don’t! It’s a trap – kinda like looking at the placenta after your child is born. I remember when our first daughter, Delaney, was born. I received some wonderful advice from a stupid old man in our church. He said, “no matter what happens, don’t look at the placenta.” You guessed it; he wanted to share the joy of his experience. Obviously, that makes it like a train wreck – you know you shouldn’t look but you can’t help it. That’s the way it is with your trash can – I’m telling you don’t look. I was covered with this liquid goop made up of coffee, tea, water, old food, cat litter, and a host of yet to be determined atomic material. Needless to say, I spent the evening washing my robe and pajamas. They stunk! Hoping nothing happens today!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Follow the Spirit
Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and the subject keeps changing to something you didn’t want to talk about? Maybe you’ve wanted to talk to a friend about one thing but God always seems to lead you another direction? You’re not alone. That seems to be what happened to Jude. Jude, Jesus’ brother, wrote a small letter to a fellowship of believers. In verse 3, he writes: “While I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.”
Isn’t it great that Jude followed the leading of the Holy Spirit? He wanted to write about one thing but God led him another direction. If, Jude had not followed the prompting of the Holy Spirit, we would not have verse 24-25. So the next time you’re in a conversation that keeps getting changed, maybe it’s the Holy Spirit prompting you to follow Him. After all, He knows the big picture.
Sometimes, we promote our agenda not His.
Isn’t it great that Jude followed the leading of the Holy Spirit? He wanted to write about one thing but God led him another direction. If, Jude had not followed the prompting of the Holy Spirit, we would not have verse 24-25. So the next time you’re in a conversation that keeps getting changed, maybe it’s the Holy Spirit prompting you to follow Him. After all, He knows the big picture.
Sometimes, we promote our agenda not His.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
What Was I Thinking
I was reminded this morning of a time about 15 years ago when my wife and I went to play golf one day. As I remember, it was a nice autumn afternoon. The weather was perfect – not too hot not too cool. The breeze coming off Mobile Bay felt exhilarating. The course was beautiful; the greens weren’t too hard or soft and the fairways were perfect. What a great afternoon to be together.
Neither of us had been playing long so we were learning the sport as we played. Because I was playing with a girl, we got a cart. I’m told real men walk the course! After a bite to eat at the clubhouse, we made the turn and started the back nine. Hole after hole we played, enjoying our time together. That magical feeling you have when you’re in the right place with the one you love was everywhere.
We approached the 17th tee. Shirley led with a beautiful drive. I followed and we made our way to the fairway for our approach shots. After reaching the green, I walked back to the cart. While walking toward the electric beast, I noticed a peculiar glow from under the carriage. It was orange, with a hint of yellow. The smoke gave away the obvious problem – the cart was on fire! That’s right, sports fans. The battery tipped over, leaked and caught on fire. Even though it was a small electrical fire, the flames quickly grew. Like any young husband, I immediately sprang into action. Running toward the cart, with adrenaline pumping, I did what any man would have done – saved my clubs! You guessed it. After grabbing my bag, I told Shirley the cart was on fire and she might want to get out!
I know, I know, looking back it would have been smarter to get her out of the cart before grabbing my bag. I guess I wasn’t thinking straight. Needless to say, I don’t play golf any more. Now, we fish. I hope the boat never catches on fire!
Neither of us had been playing long so we were learning the sport as we played. Because I was playing with a girl, we got a cart. I’m told real men walk the course! After a bite to eat at the clubhouse, we made the turn and started the back nine. Hole after hole we played, enjoying our time together. That magical feeling you have when you’re in the right place with the one you love was everywhere.
We approached the 17th tee. Shirley led with a beautiful drive. I followed and we made our way to the fairway for our approach shots. After reaching the green, I walked back to the cart. While walking toward the electric beast, I noticed a peculiar glow from under the carriage. It was orange, with a hint of yellow. The smoke gave away the obvious problem – the cart was on fire! That’s right, sports fans. The battery tipped over, leaked and caught on fire. Even though it was a small electrical fire, the flames quickly grew. Like any young husband, I immediately sprang into action. Running toward the cart, with adrenaline pumping, I did what any man would have done – saved my clubs! You guessed it. After grabbing my bag, I told Shirley the cart was on fire and she might want to get out!
I know, I know, looking back it would have been smarter to get her out of the cart before grabbing my bag. I guess I wasn’t thinking straight. Needless to say, I don’t play golf any more. Now, we fish. I hope the boat never catches on fire!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Three Little Words
Have you ever thought about the one central theme of the Bible? If you could summarize the Bible into one sentence, what would it be? Maybe you haven’t given much thought to the subject. If you have, what’s your one sentence?
There are many but the central theme I see is found in Genesis 3:9. In this verse, God asks Adam what seems to be a simple question – “Where are you?” That’s the basic theme, and question everyone must answer. The Bible in three words – talk about a summary! God knew where Adam was physically. The question was spiritual. The theme of the Bible and the reason God became man was to answer that question.
From the Garden of Eden to Bethlehem to Jerusalem to Rome to London to New York to Mobile, God is asking “Where are you?” What’s your answer? If we’re honest, we have to answer as Adam did – lost, hiding and ashamed. God knows where we are – lost without Him. The reason He became man was to become the bridge we must cross so He can take us to the Father.
Where are you?
There are many but the central theme I see is found in Genesis 3:9. In this verse, God asks Adam what seems to be a simple question – “Where are you?” That’s the basic theme, and question everyone must answer. The Bible in three words – talk about a summary! God knew where Adam was physically. The question was spiritual. The theme of the Bible and the reason God became man was to answer that question.
From the Garden of Eden to Bethlehem to Jerusalem to Rome to London to New York to Mobile, God is asking “Where are you?” What’s your answer? If we’re honest, we have to answer as Adam did – lost, hiding and ashamed. God knows where we are – lost without Him. The reason He became man was to become the bridge we must cross so He can take us to the Father.
Where are you?
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Online in an Offline World
Trendwatchers seemingly disagree on many futuristic human behaviors. But most agree on one trend that will continue to grow, develop and defy the false notion of the cocooning trend. Cocooning was a concept trend noticed a few years ago that described people in the future staying in their houses after work; barely leaving for any reason. The online, virtual avatar world was supposed to cause us to retreat into our homes and hide from the world. The ease of online shopping coupled with the connectivity of social networking scared retailers and marketing professionals. Oops! We're trend busters!
More than ever, we will continue to live large parts of our lives online; yet, we will also increase our exposure in the real, offline world. Social networking sites and mobile communication has defied every cliché about diminished human interaction in our online world.
A world in which the majority of people lose themselves in virtual worlds isn’t going to happen. The same technology that was once condemned for turning entire generations into homebound gaming zombies, is now getting people out of their homes. With more information accessible through mobile communication, people are more likely to stay out and interact with each other. What an opportunity!
Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, LinkedIn, and countless other social networking media actually help increase our interaction with each other. Social media is about connecting with others. Think about it, how many of you have connected or re-connected with friends because you found them on facebook or twitter? I have. In fact, many people I have become friends with online are people I knew years ago. How amazing is it to re-discover old friends? How else would I know how God is working in the lives of people in South Carolina, Colorado, the United Kingdom, or Costa Rica? Many of my online friends are pastors, missionaries and youth pastors. It is fantastic to read about their ministries.
We will continue to see our online and offline worlds merge. This trend gives a whole new meaning to global ministry. People in Alabama can minister to people in Ecuador, Korea or anywhere else. Because of this trend, EVERY pastor, and church should have a major online presence. It’s a necessity in today’s culture. Sermon notes, message clips, event updates and ministry opportunities need to be posted all over twitter and facebook. What an opportunity for global evangelism. Use the online world to minister to others in the offline world.
More than ever, we will continue to live large parts of our lives online; yet, we will also increase our exposure in the real, offline world. Social networking sites and mobile communication has defied every cliché about diminished human interaction in our online world.
A world in which the majority of people lose themselves in virtual worlds isn’t going to happen. The same technology that was once condemned for turning entire generations into homebound gaming zombies, is now getting people out of their homes. With more information accessible through mobile communication, people are more likely to stay out and interact with each other. What an opportunity!
Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, LinkedIn, and countless other social networking media actually help increase our interaction with each other. Social media is about connecting with others. Think about it, how many of you have connected or re-connected with friends because you found them on facebook or twitter? I have. In fact, many people I have become friends with online are people I knew years ago. How amazing is it to re-discover old friends? How else would I know how God is working in the lives of people in South Carolina, Colorado, the United Kingdom, or Costa Rica? Many of my online friends are pastors, missionaries and youth pastors. It is fantastic to read about their ministries.
We will continue to see our online and offline worlds merge. This trend gives a whole new meaning to global ministry. People in Alabama can minister to people in Ecuador, Korea or anywhere else. Because of this trend, EVERY pastor, and church should have a major online presence. It’s a necessity in today’s culture. Sermon notes, message clips, event updates and ministry opportunities need to be posted all over twitter and facebook. What an opportunity for global evangelism. Use the online world to minister to others in the offline world.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Esslesiastes 4: 7:12
Dos, due, deux, zwei: these are the Spanish, Italian, French and German words for two. In English, we have other words for two: pair, duo, tandem. Two are better than one. We find this explained in Ecclesiastes. Chapter 4 discusses oppression and the comfort needed to strengthen the oppressed. Who are the oppressed? Christians – countless verses in the Old and New Testaments describe the oppression believers in Christ will face.
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 give us a great picture of how important it is to have a partner. In elementary school, we learn to have a buddy or partner on field trips so no one is lost. Remember your teacher asking you to hold hands with your buddy or stay with your buddy? Keep that in mind while reading.
Vs. 7 – Then I looked again at vanity under the sun.
Vs. 8 – There was a certain man without a dependent, Having neither a son nor brother, yet there was no end to his labor. Indeed, his eyes were not satisfied with riches and he never asked, and for whom am I laboring and depriving myself of pleasure? This too is vanity and it is a grievous task.
Vs. 9 – Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.
Vs. 10 – For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.
Vs. 11 – Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone?
Vs. 12 – And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him.
Wow! These verses clearly show us a picture of how important it is to work together. Two are better than one. When we labor alone, we labor in vain. This can be applied to marriage, friendship, or other relationships. Think about it, isn’t this a great picture of the relationship between pastor and church?
Verse 9 describes teamwork. Verse 10 outlines help and encouragement. Verse 11 mentions comfort and verse 12 discusses protection. In marriage or parent-child relationships, friendships or other relationships, shouldn’t we strive to work together, provide help and encouragement? We should comfort and protect each other. Working together as a pair, due, deux, zwei, tandem or duo is essential to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives – RIGHT!
WRONG! WRONG! WRONG! It’s not about two! The final sentence in verse 12 destroys this myth!
Vs. 12 - A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.
In verses 7-12a the writer thoroughly describes two, two, two, two, two and all the sudden at the end something crazy is mentioned – a cord/rope of three strands. Why is he now throwing in three instead of two? It sounds like a contradiction. How can he say two are better than one and then throw out a sentence about three? Duh! You’re way ahead of me, aren’t you? It takes three not two. Why are ropes braided with three strands? Simple – it makes them stronger. Two may be better than one but three cannot be easily torn apart. No further explanation is needed. It’s not about you and someone else. It’s about you, someone else and God.
Dos, due, deux, zwei: these are the Spanish, Italian, French and German words for two. In English, we have other words for two: pair, duo, tandem. Two are better than one. We find this explained in Ecclesiastes. Chapter 4 discusses oppression and the comfort needed to strengthen the oppressed. Who are the oppressed? Christians – countless verses in the Old and New Testaments describe the oppression believers in Christ will face.
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 give us a great picture of how important it is to have a partner. In elementary school, we learn to have a buddy or partner on field trips so no one is lost. Remember your teacher asking you to hold hands with your buddy or stay with your buddy? Keep that in mind while reading.
Vs. 7 – Then I looked again at vanity under the sun.
Vs. 8 – There was a certain man without a dependent, Having neither a son nor brother, yet there was no end to his labor. Indeed, his eyes were not satisfied with riches and he never asked, and for whom am I laboring and depriving myself of pleasure? This too is vanity and it is a grievous task.
Vs. 9 – Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.
Vs. 10 – For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.
Vs. 11 – Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone?
Vs. 12 – And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him.
Wow! These verses clearly show us a picture of how important it is to work together. Two are better than one. When we labor alone, we labor in vain. This can be applied to marriage, friendship, or other relationships. Think about it, isn’t this a great picture of the relationship between pastor and church?
Verse 9 describes teamwork. Verse 10 outlines help and encouragement. Verse 11 mentions comfort and verse 12 discusses protection. In marriage or parent-child relationships, friendships or other relationships, shouldn’t we strive to work together, provide help and encouragement? We should comfort and protect each other. Working together as a pair, due, deux, zwei, tandem or duo is essential to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives – RIGHT!
WRONG! WRONG! WRONG! It’s not about two! The final sentence in verse 12 destroys this myth!
Vs. 12 - A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.
In verses 7-12a the writer thoroughly describes two, two, two, two, two and all the sudden at the end something crazy is mentioned – a cord/rope of three strands. Why is he now throwing in three instead of two? It sounds like a contradiction. How can he say two are better than one and then throw out a sentence about three? Duh! You’re way ahead of me, aren’t you? It takes three not two. Why are ropes braided with three strands? Simple – it makes them stronger. Two may be better than one but three cannot be easily torn apart. No further explanation is needed. It’s not about you and someone else. It’s about you, someone else and God.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th
Four of the movies bearing this name were released on Friday the 13th’s. Dollhouse premiered on a Friday the 13th and the new film 2012 is being released today.
Superstitions captivate our attention and change our behavior. For some reason, Friday the 13th causes us to be more cautious and aware; being careful to not walk under ladders, look into broken mirrors or cross paths with black cats.
Although, the history of the Friday the 13th superstition is relatively young, it has become an international phenomenon. Superstitions are passed from generation to generation through oral tradition – old wives tales. Paraskevidekatriaphobia, or the fear of Friday the 13th, comes from the Greek words for Friday, thirteenth and phobia. Isn’t it strange we let a certain day dictate our actions?
Come to think of it, sometimes we base decisions on how we feel or what we think. On our own, we usually make the wrong decision. However, by allowing God to lead our hearts, we choose His will. Typically, His will seems to work better, doesn’t it? Choose to follow Him.
Four of the movies bearing this name were released on Friday the 13th’s. Dollhouse premiered on a Friday the 13th and the new film 2012 is being released today.
Superstitions captivate our attention and change our behavior. For some reason, Friday the 13th causes us to be more cautious and aware; being careful to not walk under ladders, look into broken mirrors or cross paths with black cats.
Although, the history of the Friday the 13th superstition is relatively young, it has become an international phenomenon. Superstitions are passed from generation to generation through oral tradition – old wives tales. Paraskevidekatriaphobia, or the fear of Friday the 13th, comes from the Greek words for Friday, thirteenth and phobia. Isn’t it strange we let a certain day dictate our actions?
Come to think of it, sometimes we base decisions on how we feel or what we think. On our own, we usually make the wrong decision. However, by allowing God to lead our hearts, we choose His will. Typically, His will seems to work better, doesn’t it? Choose to follow Him.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Prostitute Attorneys
I'm not sure who this post is really about. Someone in this story is an idiot - one of my daughter's or her parents. The other day, one of my daughter's, who will remain anonymous, was talking with her mother about becoming an attorney. YES, we are now discouraging her pursuit of this profession. De, oops, I almost wrote her name, said she didn't think she could be the type of attorney that defended criminals but she might like to be the other kind. And then she asked, "Aren't they called prostitute attorney's?" We think she meant prosecutors. I guess I shouldn't be surprised because this is the same child who thought we were going to the mosquito rodeo. A few months ago we were in the DFW area and decided to go see the Mesquite Rodeo. Once we arrived and she realized the name was Mesquite, she told us she had been wondering what would be fun about watching mosquito races. Maybe I shouldn't complain. I'm sure she inherited this from her grandparents.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Becoming a Why Not Church
Local Church congregations must become vigilant in recognizing cultural and sociological trends. Church leaders need to develop and maintain critical public relations skills necessary to diplomatically navigate the lost world. Our 24/7 world of continual communication and conversation greatly effects expectations and strategies. Old-fashioned, one-size-fits-all church may no longer work in area’s once dominated by traditional methods of soul-winning. Our society has been greatly influenced by global cultural and economic factors that have forced us to change rapidly.
Clearly, the message of the Gospel must remain unchanged. However, reaching the facebook, twitter crowd requires a more unique approach. People are not the same today as they were 15, 10, even 5 years ago. Brand loyalty is a marketing concept major company’s held onto in the previous generation. That loyalty no longer exists. The days of buying a particular brand because you have always bought that brand are gone. The typical customer may believe they can get a better deal with the company down the street. If so, they may disregard any loyalty to their current company and take the better deal. Customers are in search of value. A company’s brand name is important. It can lead to new customers and help retain current customers. However, a company’s name only can no longer hold market share in today’s world.
What does this have to do with church? Church members are people – the same people who make decisions about which products to buy. Church growth seems to be occurring only when church members move from church to church looking for that better deal. Successful church leaders are the ones who understood current cultural trends as they relate to soul-winning. Not staying abreast of current trends leads to communication gaps with your communities that are difficult to close. Successful churches cannot rely on business as usual thinking. Leaders must become more sophisticated and learn to demonstrate real, tangible and credible evidence they are willing to enhance their ability to serve by exceeding expectations.
As church leaders, we must be willing to re-focus our mindset and re-tool our behavior. Behavior is influenced by attitude. The difference between a positive attitude and a negative attitude is one word – NOT. Churches with negative attitudes constantly ask Why. Why should I work with the community? Why should I go the extra mile in regard to helping the needy? Why should I witness? Why do I have to invite the lost to church? Why, Why, Why? Successful church leaders with positive attitudes constantly ask themselves Why Not?
Churches need to introduce some creativity into their ministry approach. However, creativity must be relevant. Creativity for the sake of creativity is exhausting and unfruitful. Relevant creative soul-winning that commands attention and creates positive results is what the Church is about. The exact path we take to achieve this varies from person to person and community to community. Our mission is to creatively communicate Christ’s message through responsible evangelism, by all possible means.
Have you heard that thinking outside of the box is what is needed for innovation and creativity? Successful church leaders must realize this way of thinking is flawed. Forget thinking outside of the box. There is no box! Embracing this should awake church leaders to explore their creativity. The following is a list of ideas for Relevant Creative Soul-Winning. Let your imagination take over while reading:
1. Do the unexpected and imaginative.
2. You must understand that breakthrough ideas may seem radical at first.
3. Creativity doesn’t mean new. It may be a new viewpoint on an old idea.
4. Soul-winning is not a monologue, it is a dialogue.
5. It’s okay to be off the wall, as long as it is within your strategy.
6. The truth is the most powerful tool.
7. Fear is the enemy of great soul-winning.
8. Surprise works.
9. Do what gets talked about.
10. Successful churches zig when others zag.
11. Dare to be different.
12. Be remembered.
13. Always keep score.
Think about these statements as they relate to becoming a successful church with a positive attitude. Continually ask yourself – Why Not?
Clearly, the message of the Gospel must remain unchanged. However, reaching the facebook, twitter crowd requires a more unique approach. People are not the same today as they were 15, 10, even 5 years ago. Brand loyalty is a marketing concept major company’s held onto in the previous generation. That loyalty no longer exists. The days of buying a particular brand because you have always bought that brand are gone. The typical customer may believe they can get a better deal with the company down the street. If so, they may disregard any loyalty to their current company and take the better deal. Customers are in search of value. A company’s brand name is important. It can lead to new customers and help retain current customers. However, a company’s name only can no longer hold market share in today’s world.
What does this have to do with church? Church members are people – the same people who make decisions about which products to buy. Church growth seems to be occurring only when church members move from church to church looking for that better deal. Successful church leaders are the ones who understood current cultural trends as they relate to soul-winning. Not staying abreast of current trends leads to communication gaps with your communities that are difficult to close. Successful churches cannot rely on business as usual thinking. Leaders must become more sophisticated and learn to demonstrate real, tangible and credible evidence they are willing to enhance their ability to serve by exceeding expectations.
As church leaders, we must be willing to re-focus our mindset and re-tool our behavior. Behavior is influenced by attitude. The difference between a positive attitude and a negative attitude is one word – NOT. Churches with negative attitudes constantly ask Why. Why should I work with the community? Why should I go the extra mile in regard to helping the needy? Why should I witness? Why do I have to invite the lost to church? Why, Why, Why? Successful church leaders with positive attitudes constantly ask themselves Why Not?
Churches need to introduce some creativity into their ministry approach. However, creativity must be relevant. Creativity for the sake of creativity is exhausting and unfruitful. Relevant creative soul-winning that commands attention and creates positive results is what the Church is about. The exact path we take to achieve this varies from person to person and community to community. Our mission is to creatively communicate Christ’s message through responsible evangelism, by all possible means.
Have you heard that thinking outside of the box is what is needed for innovation and creativity? Successful church leaders must realize this way of thinking is flawed. Forget thinking outside of the box. There is no box! Embracing this should awake church leaders to explore their creativity. The following is a list of ideas for Relevant Creative Soul-Winning. Let your imagination take over while reading:
1. Do the unexpected and imaginative.
2. You must understand that breakthrough ideas may seem radical at first.
3. Creativity doesn’t mean new. It may be a new viewpoint on an old idea.
4. Soul-winning is not a monologue, it is a dialogue.
5. It’s okay to be off the wall, as long as it is within your strategy.
6. The truth is the most powerful tool.
7. Fear is the enemy of great soul-winning.
8. Surprise works.
9. Do what gets talked about.
10. Successful churches zig when others zag.
11. Dare to be different.
12. Be remembered.
13. Always keep score.
Think about these statements as they relate to becoming a successful church with a positive attitude. Continually ask yourself – Why Not?
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Love Going Postal
We’ve all heard the phrase going postal. Maybe, you’ve even gone postal a time or two – screaming at your spouse, kids, dogs, etc. Going postal took on a new meaning for me the other day while standing in line to buy stamps. Since two people were in line ahead of me, I patiently waited my turn. Due to the fact the postal payment system is complicated or the postal worker was stupid, I stood in line for a while - a long while. Glancing from bulletin board to bulletin board, I noticed several interesting posters and notices.
The top ten most wanted poster caught my eye – no I’m not on it! While looking at the missing persons posters, I thought of a few people I’d like to see on one of them – Britney Spears, Keanu Reeves, the entire LSU football team and the Clinton’s.
One poster really captured my attention. It was the cartoon image of things you cannot mail. At the top, the headline read: Some Things Aren’t Meant to be Mailed. The cartoon included the usual suspects: paint, poison, flammable liquids, hazardous materials, gasoline and rockets. Yes, you heard right! ROCKETS! I’m sure you’ve been turned away from your postal counter trying to mail gasoline or poison but have you ever tried mailing a rocket? It seems to me some things are obvious. According to NASA, the Saturn and Ares rockets are over 300 feet tall. Wow! Can you see that strapped to the top of a mail carrier truck?
Usually warning signs, product instructions and Do Not posters are in place because sometime in the not so distant past, some fool tried what you’re being warned against. This means someone actually tried mailing a rocket! Must have been an Ohio State grad or an Aggie! Here’s the scene: A NASA engineer at Cape Canaveral needed to get a rocket to the Space Center in Houston. Can you imagine the conversation? I’m sure it ended with, “Can’t we just mail it to Houston?” I bet even a government employee can get fired for being that stupid!
Next to the post office is a helicopter plant. Leaving, I noticed a large 18-wheel, flatbed truck turning into the plant. You guessed it; he was hauling what looked like part of a rocket. OK, it was a helicopter. Even though it’s not on the list, I bet you can’t mail them either.
The top ten most wanted poster caught my eye – no I’m not on it! While looking at the missing persons posters, I thought of a few people I’d like to see on one of them – Britney Spears, Keanu Reeves, the entire LSU football team and the Clinton’s.
One poster really captured my attention. It was the cartoon image of things you cannot mail. At the top, the headline read: Some Things Aren’t Meant to be Mailed. The cartoon included the usual suspects: paint, poison, flammable liquids, hazardous materials, gasoline and rockets. Yes, you heard right! ROCKETS! I’m sure you’ve been turned away from your postal counter trying to mail gasoline or poison but have you ever tried mailing a rocket? It seems to me some things are obvious. According to NASA, the Saturn and Ares rockets are over 300 feet tall. Wow! Can you see that strapped to the top of a mail carrier truck?
Usually warning signs, product instructions and Do Not posters are in place because sometime in the not so distant past, some fool tried what you’re being warned against. This means someone actually tried mailing a rocket! Must have been an Ohio State grad or an Aggie! Here’s the scene: A NASA engineer at Cape Canaveral needed to get a rocket to the Space Center in Houston. Can you imagine the conversation? I’m sure it ended with, “Can’t we just mail it to Houston?” I bet even a government employee can get fired for being that stupid!
Next to the post office is a helicopter plant. Leaving, I noticed a large 18-wheel, flatbed truck turning into the plant. You guessed it; he was hauling what looked like part of a rocket. OK, it was a helicopter. Even though it’s not on the list, I bet you can’t mail them either.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Jesus, T-Mobile, AT&T and Budweiser
What’s the one thing we can’t leave home without? If we leave it at home or work, we run back quickly to grab it. We even breathe a sigh of relief when reunited after the briefest moments. You guessed right, I’m talking about our cell phones. Remember how lost you felt the last time you misplaced it or the last time you didn’t have it? We tell ourselves it’s just in case of emergency. The truth is we’re addicted to our phones. We’re lost without them and we feel better knowing they’re in our pockets or purses. We update facebook, twitter and our blogs with them.
What would the world be like if our Bibles were as important as our phones? Can you imagine feeling anxious because you went to work without your Bible? How cool would it be if we felt the same relief knowing our Bible was with us – you know, just in case of emergency!
Leaving home without our Bible is a common everyday practice. Most of us may not even think twice about running back inside to grab it. Have you ever frantically asked yourself “Where’s my Bible? Where’s my Bible?” I know you’ve asked yourself that about your phone.
I wonder what the world would be like if our Bibles were as important as our phones. What if we carried it in our pockets or purses? What if we checked it several times daily for new messages? I bet it would help our batteries never run low!
What if, what if, what if…… Don't leave home unarmed - it's just your sword!
Oh, putting Budweiser in the title was just to get you interested.
What would the world be like if our Bibles were as important as our phones? Can you imagine feeling anxious because you went to work without your Bible? How cool would it be if we felt the same relief knowing our Bible was with us – you know, just in case of emergency!
Leaving home without our Bible is a common everyday practice. Most of us may not even think twice about running back inside to grab it. Have you ever frantically asked yourself “Where’s my Bible? Where’s my Bible?” I know you’ve asked yourself that about your phone.
I wonder what the world would be like if our Bibles were as important as our phones. What if we carried it in our pockets or purses? What if we checked it several times daily for new messages? I bet it would help our batteries never run low!
What if, what if, what if…… Don't leave home unarmed - it's just your sword!
Oh, putting Budweiser in the title was just to get you interested.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Dunder and Blixem
It's been a while since I've posted. Last night there was a massive lightning storm over the DFW area. My hotel room flashed bright lights for a couple hours with deep thunder rolling in the background. I didn't enjoy the strobe effect. Since it was too noisy and bright to sleep, I watched from the balcony. Every second or two the sky lit up in spectacular fashion. I started wondering about the purpose of lightning. I didn't come up with an answer but I have discovered a few lightning facts:
1. Lightning is mentioned 46 times in the Bible. Thunder is mentioned 30. (www.crosswalk.com)
2. In ancient cultures, lightning represented power and was sometimes used by Greek and Roman gods to punish mankind.
3. The Navajo tribes linked lightning to the thunderbird which is their symbol for salvation and divine gifts.
4. Each year the National Weather Service hosts the Lightning Safety Awareness Week.
5. The original version of St. Nicholas' story referenced two reindeer - Dunder and Blixem. These later became Donner and Blitzen. Originally these were the Dutch words for Thunder and Lightning.
6. There is an annual conference for survivors of lightning strikes.
7. Lightning strikes the earth 100 times per second. That's about 8.6 million times a day.
8. Lightning strikes Central Africa more than any other place.
9. There are 21 million ground strikes per year in the United States.
10. Tampa, FL receives more lightning strikes than any other city in the United States. Maybe they should change the name from the Buccaneers to the Dodgers?
11. The average lightning strike carries 10-12,000 amps of electricity.
12. Sleep experts say when someone dreams about lightning it usually represents a sudden or shocking event has taken place in their lives.
Armed with this knowledge you too will be able to hold an intelligent conversation with someone about the amazing atmospheric phenomenon called lightning.
1. Lightning is mentioned 46 times in the Bible. Thunder is mentioned 30. (www.crosswalk.com)
2. In ancient cultures, lightning represented power and was sometimes used by Greek and Roman gods to punish mankind.
3. The Navajo tribes linked lightning to the thunderbird which is their symbol for salvation and divine gifts.
4. Each year the National Weather Service hosts the Lightning Safety Awareness Week.
5. The original version of St. Nicholas' story referenced two reindeer - Dunder and Blixem. These later became Donner and Blitzen. Originally these were the Dutch words for Thunder and Lightning.
6. There is an annual conference for survivors of lightning strikes.
7. Lightning strikes the earth 100 times per second. That's about 8.6 million times a day.
8. Lightning strikes Central Africa more than any other place.
9. There are 21 million ground strikes per year in the United States.
10. Tampa, FL receives more lightning strikes than any other city in the United States. Maybe they should change the name from the Buccaneers to the Dodgers?
11. The average lightning strike carries 10-12,000 amps of electricity.
12. Sleep experts say when someone dreams about lightning it usually represents a sudden or shocking event has taken place in their lives.
Armed with this knowledge you too will be able to hold an intelligent conversation with someone about the amazing atmospheric phenomenon called lightning.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Looking for Some Dark
Here’s another childhood fear: The Dark. How many of you were afraid of the dark? I was. Sometimes I still am. Do you know what evil lurks behind the closet door once the lights are out? I remember when my youngest daughter, Ashlyn, was about three. She used to love playing with flashlights. Running all over the house, she shined her flashlight all the time. She liked them so much people gave them to her as Christmas presents. One night as she tiptoed down the hall shining her flashlight, I crawled up behind her whispering, “What are you doing?” In her three year old voice she whispered, “Looking for some dark.”
Looking for some dark! What a powerful statement. Are you looking for some dark? Matthew 5:16 – Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven. The Newsboys wrote a song about this called Shine. Shine, make them wonder what you’ve got; make them wish they were not on the outside looking bored. Light exposes darkness. How long has it been since you’ve intentionally looked for darkness?
Our world is dark, and lost without Christ. We are the light of the world! Make a commitment today to seek something dark and expose it; not in a judgmental, harsh way but with the love of Christ. Shine your light as you look for some dark.
Looking for some dark! What a powerful statement. Are you looking for some dark? Matthew 5:16 – Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven. The Newsboys wrote a song about this called Shine. Shine, make them wonder what you’ve got; make them wish they were not on the outside looking bored. Light exposes darkness. How long has it been since you’ve intentionally looked for darkness?
Our world is dark, and lost without Christ. We are the light of the world! Make a commitment today to seek something dark and expose it; not in a judgmental, harsh way but with the love of Christ. Shine your light as you look for some dark.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Childhood Fears: Monsters
Do you remember your childhood fear? Some may have had more than others and some may have been more intense. All childhood fears feel real no matter how fantastical they appear. You may have feared monsters, the dark, spiders, snakes, strangers, or getting lost. Do you remember how scared you were? How real the fear felt? No matter how improbable, the feeling of fear was real. As we grow older and mature our fears change. As an adult you may fear losing your job, failure, your spouse or maybe even God!
With Halloween approaching it seems like a good time to explore some of our childhood fears from a different point of view. We’ll start with one of the most common – Fear of Monsters. Do you remember the bogey man or in my case Gill Man? Gill man was a creature my uncle made up to scare us. Gill Man lived in the Gulf of Mexico. He walked on two legs and ate little children. Later, I found out Gill Man was loosely based on the Creature form the Black Lagoon.
Children and adults are afraid of monsters. That’s why we created superheroes. They protect us from monsters. Don’t tell a child either aren’t real! Our minds believe in both. Real fear comes from our enemy, Satan, who spends his time creating monsters. Superheroes usually win by turning the situation around. What’s the opposite of fear? Whether you’re afraid of the monster under your bed or in your closet, remember God is not the author of fear. Monsters are real and we face them daily. Perfect love casts out all fear. Revelation 12 - …And they overcame him by the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony.
With Halloween approaching it seems like a good time to explore some of our childhood fears from a different point of view. We’ll start with one of the most common – Fear of Monsters. Do you remember the bogey man or in my case Gill Man? Gill man was a creature my uncle made up to scare us. Gill Man lived in the Gulf of Mexico. He walked on two legs and ate little children. Later, I found out Gill Man was loosely based on the Creature form the Black Lagoon.
Children and adults are afraid of monsters. That’s why we created superheroes. They protect us from monsters. Don’t tell a child either aren’t real! Our minds believe in both. Real fear comes from our enemy, Satan, who spends his time creating monsters. Superheroes usually win by turning the situation around. What’s the opposite of fear? Whether you’re afraid of the monster under your bed or in your closet, remember God is not the author of fear. Monsters are real and we face them daily. Perfect love casts out all fear. Revelation 12 - …And they overcame him by the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
I Can't Dance
Eating lunch today at Five Guys with Shirley, Delaney and Ashlyn. Somehow we started talking about ballet. I was reminded of my ballet career. Shocking I know but I did have a brief ballet career. I was cast in Mobile Ballet's performance of Sleeping Beauty and another company's performance of the Nutcrakcer paying in South Mississippi. No sure why I thought it was important to let you know I was in two ballet's; I guess you needed to picture me in tights.
Five Guys has the best burgers. Well, maybe not the best but they're pretty good. I enjoyed Sleeping Beauty more than the Nutcracker. I'm glad my dance career was short lived. Five Guys has good fries, also. I can't believe Florida won today because of two bad penalties called against Arkansas on the game-tying drive. Auburn lost to Kentucky and the Tide ran over the Gamecocks. Purdue upset Ohio State! What a day. No ballet dancing just football. Maybe I can tryout again. It's almost time for the Nutcracker!
Five Guys has the best burgers. Well, maybe not the best but they're pretty good. I enjoyed Sleeping Beauty more than the Nutcracker. I'm glad my dance career was short lived. Five Guys has good fries, also. I can't believe Florida won today because of two bad penalties called against Arkansas on the game-tying drive. Auburn lost to Kentucky and the Tide ran over the Gamecocks. Purdue upset Ohio State! What a day. No ballet dancing just football. Maybe I can tryout again. It's almost time for the Nutcracker!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
I Wanna Be An Airborne Ranger - for Jan
Seeing a commercial for Airborne last night reminded me of a story. Weird how everything reminds me of a story? Airborne is the tablet you mix with water to take so you don’t get sick. A good friend had a unique experience with Airborne. OK, all you therapists, psychologists and counselors, I know when someone says something about a friend it usually means they’re talking about themselves. Not this time! I can’t reveal my friend’s name due to a confidentiality agreement I signed but I guess I could mention his initials – JH.
It seems that JH was not feeling well. Being the YOUNG, able-bodied man he is, his wife, Jan Hetherly, had to take care of him. While packing for a business trip, Jan gave JH a pack of Airborne. He thanked her and slipped it in his pocket. Later, sitting at the gate waiting for his plane, JH decided to take his first Airborne tablet. Have you ever seen a sea gull eat an alka-seltzer? I don’t know why that popped in my head. It has nothing to do with the story!
JH popped the quarter-size tablet in his mouth thinking he was supposed to chew it. Yes, this is the part where you start laughing. Within seconds the tablet reacted with his saliva thus causing JH to begin foaming at the mouth. I bet he looked like he had shaving cream all over his mouth! What a sight that must have been – a well-dressed, sharp YOUNG man in an airport foaming about the head and face. Talk about a security nightmare.
These are the day’s airport security personnel live for. Can you imagine them telling their spouses about the crazy guy who foamed at the mouth at work today? Needless to say, JH doesn’t take Airborne any more and Jan is perfectly content because she doesn’t have to clean goop out of his shirts any more.
Does anyone know if John Hetherly is still working in Cali?
It seems that JH was not feeling well. Being the YOUNG, able-bodied man he is, his wife, Jan Hetherly, had to take care of him. While packing for a business trip, Jan gave JH a pack of Airborne. He thanked her and slipped it in his pocket. Later, sitting at the gate waiting for his plane, JH decided to take his first Airborne tablet. Have you ever seen a sea gull eat an alka-seltzer? I don’t know why that popped in my head. It has nothing to do with the story!
JH popped the quarter-size tablet in his mouth thinking he was supposed to chew it. Yes, this is the part where you start laughing. Within seconds the tablet reacted with his saliva thus causing JH to begin foaming at the mouth. I bet he looked like he had shaving cream all over his mouth! What a sight that must have been – a well-dressed, sharp YOUNG man in an airport foaming about the head and face. Talk about a security nightmare.
These are the day’s airport security personnel live for. Can you imagine them telling their spouses about the crazy guy who foamed at the mouth at work today? Needless to say, JH doesn’t take Airborne any more and Jan is perfectly content because she doesn’t have to clean goop out of his shirts any more.
Does anyone know if John Hetherly is still working in Cali?
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Gun Shot Wounds, Car Accidents and Zombieland
Trauma Center now open. Gun shot wounds, heart attacks, car accidents, swine flue, etc. - All of these can be found at your local trauma center. Hopefully, this can be said of your local church. Traveling extensively has given me a unique perspective. I have met people from all over the world. Each state, city and neighborhood come together providing culture and flavor. Visiting Los Angeles and driving through Compton, strolling into a deli close to Central Park in New York, catching a Cubs game in Chicago or watching a rodeo in Mesquite, TX. That’s Mesquite not Mosquito.
In all these places, I’ve noticed one thing exactly the same. They all have those blue road signs with a capital H. You know the one’s I’m talking about. The sign for a Hospital. Every city has at least one. Those blue H signs are everywhere. The signs serve as signals letting you know help isn't far away. What an amazing analogy for the Church!
Think about it. Is there a better trauma center than the Church? Of course not, Jesus established His Church to be a trauma center. A place for people to come for healing. We know the Church is made of local congregations serving God faithfully. Is your local church a trauma center for your city?
In the book of John chapter 11 the resurrection of Lazarus is recorded. After Jesus called Laz from the grave, he told the people standing around to loose him by taking his grave clothes off. Laz was bound, gagged and probably hopping around like an idiot trying to walk wrapped like a mummy. That had to be a funny sight! I bet he even fell down a time or two. Do you think Jesus could have called Laz from the grave without leaving the mummy wraps tied around his cold, dead body? Of course. Jesus was giving us a picture of the Church.
When someone comes from death to life, it is the responsibility of Christians to help them take off their grave clothes. People come to the Church with problems, insecurities, sins and all kinds of trauma. We are responsible for their growth. We loose the grave clothes! Sinful people are bloody, bruised, dirty, smelly, and bound. You know, kinda like they’ve been dead!
Be mindful this week that God may bring one of the walking wounded or the dead your direction. I know Zombieland is huge right now but don’t take the opportunity to blast them. Take the opportunity to be the doctor God gifted you to be and take them to your trauma center. After all, He is the great physician!
In all these places, I’ve noticed one thing exactly the same. They all have those blue road signs with a capital H. You know the one’s I’m talking about. The sign for a Hospital. Every city has at least one. Those blue H signs are everywhere. The signs serve as signals letting you know help isn't far away. What an amazing analogy for the Church!
Think about it. Is there a better trauma center than the Church? Of course not, Jesus established His Church to be a trauma center. A place for people to come for healing. We know the Church is made of local congregations serving God faithfully. Is your local church a trauma center for your city?
In the book of John chapter 11 the resurrection of Lazarus is recorded. After Jesus called Laz from the grave, he told the people standing around to loose him by taking his grave clothes off. Laz was bound, gagged and probably hopping around like an idiot trying to walk wrapped like a mummy. That had to be a funny sight! I bet he even fell down a time or two. Do you think Jesus could have called Laz from the grave without leaving the mummy wraps tied around his cold, dead body? Of course. Jesus was giving us a picture of the Church.
When someone comes from death to life, it is the responsibility of Christians to help them take off their grave clothes. People come to the Church with problems, insecurities, sins and all kinds of trauma. We are responsible for their growth. We loose the grave clothes! Sinful people are bloody, bruised, dirty, smelly, and bound. You know, kinda like they’ve been dead!
Be mindful this week that God may bring one of the walking wounded or the dead your direction. I know Zombieland is huge right now but don’t take the opportunity to blast them. Take the opportunity to be the doctor God gifted you to be and take them to your trauma center. After all, He is the great physician!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Bully Beatdown
The weekend is over so it's time to post something new. I was watching old UFC fights earlier wishing I was young enough to get into that sport. How cool would it be to put someone to sleep with a rear naked choke or drop elbows after passing full guard? Watching the fight got me thinking about a few fights I was in as a kid. One in third grade when I jumped from a three foot wall on top of a guy knocking him down. It was on then. He started it! The safety patrols broke us apart. I still remember the hallway filled with other kids cheering as we were drug to the office. We were like heroes. I remember someone saying I looked like Starsky or Hutch jumping from the wall. An old reference I know but remember it was in the 70's.
One of my best fights came in fifth grade. It was my first year at a new school. There was this big kid who picked on me everyday. He was a jerk; calling me names, pushing me around, knocking books out of my hands. I avoided him as much as possible; hiding in the locker room or eating lunch by my self. I remember avoiding everyone during recess. Did I mention he was big?
One day, he picked and picked. I was tired, embarrassed and humiliated. Walking through the hall, leaving my locker he knocked my books out of my hand. Kneeling down, I picked them up as everyone laughed. Even then I was a little sarcastic - shocking to think about I know - but true. Kneeling, I made a decision. It was now or never! Still on my knees, I shouted out loud "Let's get ready to rummmmmbbbbbbbllllllleeeeeeee" and came up swinging! I'd like to say it was classic form, UFC style, kicks, punches, elbows. It wasn't like that. I connected several times but only in an odd spastic way. Form didn't matter, I beat the crap out of that kid! Guess what? I enjoyed beating him up! I'm not sure what came over me but I'm glad I did it. Sorry, no spiritual meaning or metaphors. I'm glad he got the beatdown he deserved!
One of my best fights came in fifth grade. It was my first year at a new school. There was this big kid who picked on me everyday. He was a jerk; calling me names, pushing me around, knocking books out of my hands. I avoided him as much as possible; hiding in the locker room or eating lunch by my self. I remember avoiding everyone during recess. Did I mention he was big?
One day, he picked and picked. I was tired, embarrassed and humiliated. Walking through the hall, leaving my locker he knocked my books out of my hand. Kneeling down, I picked them up as everyone laughed. Even then I was a little sarcastic - shocking to think about I know - but true. Kneeling, I made a decision. It was now or never! Still on my knees, I shouted out loud "Let's get ready to rummmmmbbbbbbbllllllleeeeeeee" and came up swinging! I'd like to say it was classic form, UFC style, kicks, punches, elbows. It wasn't like that. I connected several times but only in an odd spastic way. Form didn't matter, I beat the crap out of that kid! Guess what? I enjoyed beating him up! I'm not sure what came over me but I'm glad I did it. Sorry, no spiritual meaning or metaphors. I'm glad he got the beatdown he deserved!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Upside Down Town
Acts 17:6 (b) …These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.
Wow! What a powerful testimony to Paul and Silas. They turned their world upside down. Can that be said of us? Read chapter 16 and 17 to get the entire scene and you’ll discover the ministry of Paul and Silas was exploding. Their reputation preceded them. In Thessalonica, the complaint was they turned the world upside down. Think about that for a moment. Their testimony was so strong; their influence so great, the world was upside down.
I would like to live in an upsidedown town. Wouldn't you? Upsidedown town – sounds like a good song title. Maybe our musician friends can collaborate on that one? Living in an Upsidedown Town! What a testimony that would be! Can you imagine turning the world upside down for the cause of Christ? Amazing!
Imagine Satan saying, “Those who are turning the world upside down have come here too.” Here we come town by town, turning them all upside down! That sounds like something from Dr. Seuss.
Wow! What a powerful testimony to Paul and Silas. They turned their world upside down. Can that be said of us? Read chapter 16 and 17 to get the entire scene and you’ll discover the ministry of Paul and Silas was exploding. Their reputation preceded them. In Thessalonica, the complaint was they turned the world upside down. Think about that for a moment. Their testimony was so strong; their influence so great, the world was upside down.
I would like to live in an upsidedown town. Wouldn't you? Upsidedown town – sounds like a good song title. Maybe our musician friends can collaborate on that one? Living in an Upsidedown Town! What a testimony that would be! Can you imagine turning the world upside down for the cause of Christ? Amazing!
Imagine Satan saying, “Those who are turning the world upside down have come here too.” Here we come town by town, turning them all upside down! That sounds like something from Dr. Seuss.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Blank Page
I haven't posted anything in a couple days because I've started writing a new story. It may become another novel but right now it's only 12,000 words and has occupied my time. The best thing about starting a new story is the blank page or the next page. My favorite part of writing something new is looking at a ream of paper knowing the blank pages will soon come to life. For me, the blank page begs for total creativity - no boundaries - anything can happen.
I think life is like that. It unfolds before us as one blank page after another calling us to write our story. We all have a story to tell. While writing yours, remember to keep focused on what's eternally important. Jesus gave us an incredible gift in His Word, the most creatively written masterpiece of all time. Compiled over 1,000 years with I have forgotten how many different writers. I guess I could look that up but I bet you already have the point. He filled blank page after blank page with His Word! Isn't that incredible? His story is one written with extravagant love.
Tell someone your story - a story of love, forgiveness and acceptance from the ultimate writer.
II John 12 ... until then, I will write.
I think life is like that. It unfolds before us as one blank page after another calling us to write our story. We all have a story to tell. While writing yours, remember to keep focused on what's eternally important. Jesus gave us an incredible gift in His Word, the most creatively written masterpiece of all time. Compiled over 1,000 years with I have forgotten how many different writers. I guess I could look that up but I bet you already have the point. He filled blank page after blank page with His Word! Isn't that incredible? His story is one written with extravagant love.
Tell someone your story - a story of love, forgiveness and acceptance from the ultimate writer.
II John 12 ... until then, I will write.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
My Amateur Poetry
I'm posting a few poems I've written the past couple months. I hope you enjoy the ramblings of an obviously amateur poet.
Draw Near
I sit alone and wish you were here.
My heart tells me it is now clear,
That I alone must face my fear.
I shed a tear, because I long for you to draw near.
You’ve been there for me through all I have faced.
Now, I want you to have a taste
Of what life is like when you are embraced.
You have captured my soul and taught me to play,
You have even taken my breath away.
I long for the day when you kiss my hand,
And live beside me as we take a stand.
The following poem was written on Inauguration Day. I hope my democratic friends take this in just as it is not intended to offend.
The New Zoo
I’d like this poem to make you laugh,
So you should think of a giraffe,
As our new president’s chief of staff.
Yes, indeed we will be led by a zoo,
With leaders who like to chew and moo.
You know I’m right, they don’t have a clue
Because all of them are full of doo-doo.
Free
Anxious tonight
‘Cause tomorrow will be bright.
Free from the night
That had blinded my sight.
What I see now is love from above.
From my eyes to my heart,
You have loved me from the start.
Leap
I don’t know how to play the game.
But I do know how to fan the flame,
Of a love that’s grown so deep.
Are you ready to take the leap?
If we jump together,
We will float like a feather.
Until we safely land
In each other’s hand.
Your Breath
Vampires and mummies scare me to death
But nothing compares to your breath.
The smell is rank,
Like an old, dirty fish tank.
Blankty, Blank, your breath stank!
Draw Near
I sit alone and wish you were here.
My heart tells me it is now clear,
That I alone must face my fear.
I shed a tear, because I long for you to draw near.
You’ve been there for me through all I have faced.
Now, I want you to have a taste
Of what life is like when you are embraced.
You have captured my soul and taught me to play,
You have even taken my breath away.
I long for the day when you kiss my hand,
And live beside me as we take a stand.
The following poem was written on Inauguration Day. I hope my democratic friends take this in just as it is not intended to offend.
The New Zoo
I’d like this poem to make you laugh,
So you should think of a giraffe,
As our new president’s chief of staff.
Yes, indeed we will be led by a zoo,
With leaders who like to chew and moo.
You know I’m right, they don’t have a clue
Because all of them are full of doo-doo.
Free
Anxious tonight
‘Cause tomorrow will be bright.
Free from the night
That had blinded my sight.
What I see now is love from above.
From my eyes to my heart,
You have loved me from the start.
Leap
I don’t know how to play the game.
But I do know how to fan the flame,
Of a love that’s grown so deep.
Are you ready to take the leap?
If we jump together,
We will float like a feather.
Until we safely land
In each other’s hand.
Your Breath
Vampires and mummies scare me to death
But nothing compares to your breath.
The smell is rank,
Like an old, dirty fish tank.
Blankty, Blank, your breath stank!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Kiss em on the Forehead and Tell em you Love em
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves. Love never fails. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I Corinthians 13:4-8, 13
We have read these verses many times; heard them recited at weddings and listened to countless sermons surrounding them. Have we every really understood God’s love? We display the opposite of love each day. Have you ever been impatient, unkind, envious, boastful, selfish, rude, or proud? Of course, these actions are sinful and we are sinful, fallen creations. It is only by God’s love we are able to experience real, true, unconditional love.
It’s like this, there’s a secret needing to be shared. The secret is this: We can be kind, thoughtful, selfless, etc. but that’s not enough. Unconditional love only comes from above. You cannot create unconditional love – How many times have you failed when trying to love others in your own strength? It cannot be done! Because the heart is deceitful, it leads us away from Christ. Unconditional love comes from Him and we display His love to others as He gives it to us.
Love never fails because God never fails.
In the busyness of your day, remember to love others as Christ has first loved you!
Also remember to brush your teeth twice, hold hands when crossing the street and kiss someone on the forehead and tell them you love them.
I Corinthians 13:4-8, 13
We have read these verses many times; heard them recited at weddings and listened to countless sermons surrounding them. Have we every really understood God’s love? We display the opposite of love each day. Have you ever been impatient, unkind, envious, boastful, selfish, rude, or proud? Of course, these actions are sinful and we are sinful, fallen creations. It is only by God’s love we are able to experience real, true, unconditional love.
It’s like this, there’s a secret needing to be shared. The secret is this: We can be kind, thoughtful, selfless, etc. but that’s not enough. Unconditional love only comes from above. You cannot create unconditional love – How many times have you failed when trying to love others in your own strength? It cannot be done! Because the heart is deceitful, it leads us away from Christ. Unconditional love comes from Him and we display His love to others as He gives it to us.
Love never fails because God never fails.
In the busyness of your day, remember to love others as Christ has first loved you!
Also remember to brush your teeth twice, hold hands when crossing the street and kiss someone on the forehead and tell them you love them.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Wish I had the Dog's Hair
I'm sooooooo glad Dog, the Bounty Hunter lives in Hawaii. Could you imagine what kind of rep the sawth would have if he lived in TN, MS or AL? Although, I have to admit I occasionally watch his show. As far as redneck television goes, it's quite entertaining. I especially appreciate when he uses words like $^&!@ and ?(*&#!), followed by praise the name of Jesus! I wish I had his hair! Maybe I'll dress up like him for Halloween.
Thinking about Dog reminds me of last week when I went to the License Office to register my new truck. Yes, for those of you who may not know, I traded my Lexus SC430 convertible sports coupe for a truck! Don't worry, I'm not bitter! Anyway, back to the story. WOW! I haven't seen that many toothless wonders in one place since the last Blessing of the Fleet I attended in Bayou la Batre. Have you ever taken your number, sat down and just watched people coming and going from that building? Now that's redneck entertainment! I was amazed to see how many people couldn't read and follow instructions. Take a number and wait for it to be called! how difficult is that?
I heard number 198 called and watched two men walk to the available window at the same time. How can there be two 198's I thought? You know exactly where this is going. Neither had 198. I wonder what was going on in their brains. They both yelled at the lady behind the window when she explained she called 198 and neither had that number.
Do you think Jesus and His disciples had mulletts like Dog? Now that would make for a good da Vinci painting of the Last Supper. Come to think of it, I had a mullett for a while. But that was a long time ago.
Here's a thought to chew on as you're thinking about how I looked with a mullett. Peace is one of the names of God – Jehovah-Shalom. The Lord Our Peace is first mentioned in Judges 6:23-24. Shalom translates to peace and means whole, finished, fulfilled, and perfected. Shalom refers to the kind of peace resulting from being a whole person in right relationship with God. Peace comes from knowing God has made us whole and fulfilled!
You may believe the sun has set, its dark and your situation seems hopeless. There is hope and good news. A deep sense of humbleness has overtaken you; and finally you are looking and longing for God’s peace. The God who hung the moon and scattered the stars cares about you. He created you to love Him. Judges 6:23 reads: And the Lord said to him, “Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die.” What an incredible statement!
Have you wondered why your situation seems hopeless or why bad things seem to keep happening? Gideon wondered and questioned God. Before God revealed Himself to Gideon as Jehovah-Shalom, Gideon questioned God’s presence. In Judges Chapter 6 verse 13, Gideon said, “If the Lord is with us, why have all these things happened? And where are His miracles?” Sound familiar? Have you asked that same question? Why has this happened? Where are you, God?
Does God really care when we are distressed or in danger? He cared enough to sacrifice His son Jesus to save us from our sin. He cares enough to lift you out of your circumstances. Psalm 40:1-3 – “I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.”
The Lord is Peace - wait for His timing!
Thinking about Dog reminds me of last week when I went to the License Office to register my new truck. Yes, for those of you who may not know, I traded my Lexus SC430 convertible sports coupe for a truck! Don't worry, I'm not bitter! Anyway, back to the story. WOW! I haven't seen that many toothless wonders in one place since the last Blessing of the Fleet I attended in Bayou la Batre. Have you ever taken your number, sat down and just watched people coming and going from that building? Now that's redneck entertainment! I was amazed to see how many people couldn't read and follow instructions. Take a number and wait for it to be called! how difficult is that?
I heard number 198 called and watched two men walk to the available window at the same time. How can there be two 198's I thought? You know exactly where this is going. Neither had 198. I wonder what was going on in their brains. They both yelled at the lady behind the window when she explained she called 198 and neither had that number.
Do you think Jesus and His disciples had mulletts like Dog? Now that would make for a good da Vinci painting of the Last Supper. Come to think of it, I had a mullett for a while. But that was a long time ago.
Here's a thought to chew on as you're thinking about how I looked with a mullett. Peace is one of the names of God – Jehovah-Shalom. The Lord Our Peace is first mentioned in Judges 6:23-24. Shalom translates to peace and means whole, finished, fulfilled, and perfected. Shalom refers to the kind of peace resulting from being a whole person in right relationship with God. Peace comes from knowing God has made us whole and fulfilled!
You may believe the sun has set, its dark and your situation seems hopeless. There is hope and good news. A deep sense of humbleness has overtaken you; and finally you are looking and longing for God’s peace. The God who hung the moon and scattered the stars cares about you. He created you to love Him. Judges 6:23 reads: And the Lord said to him, “Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die.” What an incredible statement!
Have you wondered why your situation seems hopeless or why bad things seem to keep happening? Gideon wondered and questioned God. Before God revealed Himself to Gideon as Jehovah-Shalom, Gideon questioned God’s presence. In Judges Chapter 6 verse 13, Gideon said, “If the Lord is with us, why have all these things happened? And where are His miracles?” Sound familiar? Have you asked that same question? Why has this happened? Where are you, God?
Does God really care when we are distressed or in danger? He cared enough to sacrifice His son Jesus to save us from our sin. He cares enough to lift you out of your circumstances. Psalm 40:1-3 – “I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.”
The Lord is Peace - wait for His timing!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
He, She, It and They ......
Have you ever wondered why we let pronouns control much of our lives? Think about it for a minute. Sometimes we allow pronouns to dictate our actions; especially when it comes to our faith in Christ. Take the pronoun they, for example. How many times have we listened to they when it comes to sharing our faith? Or how many times do we worry about what they will think. They seem to take a lot of credit for our mistakes. I wonder what would happen if we never said, “well, that’s what they said” or “they told me it was ok”.
Here’s another great pronoun: he/she. Have you heard someone say something like this? “He/she did that, not me!” It’s easy to blame others and point fingers, isn’t it? Maybe we should use me a little more often.
There are a couple good pronouns: it and us. It refers to the Church and it is made up of us.
Here’s another great pronoun: he/she. Have you heard someone say something like this? “He/she did that, not me!” It’s easy to blame others and point fingers, isn’t it? Maybe we should use me a little more often.
There are a couple good pronouns: it and us. It refers to the Church and it is made up of us.
The Freezer Deserves a Light
Here are a few random thoughts about random things that occasionally pop into my head.
1. Bad decisions make good stories.
2. Nothing is worse than the moment during an argument when you realize you're totally wrong.
3. I wish I could take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was a kid.
4. Was learning cursive really necessary?
5. Obituaries would be a lot more exciting if they told you how the person died.
6. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
7. What can come after Blue Ray?
8. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my 150 page book that I swear I did not make any changes to.
9. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring and when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What did you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?
10. I hate leaving my house looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste of cool clothes and a good hair day!
11. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call (Abel Cerda and Doug Donaldson).
12. I think the freezer deserves a light as well, don't you?
13. I hate it when you buy a new shirt and discover halfway through the day you forgot to pull off the sticker that has the size. Why don't the idiots we work with tell us these things?
1. Bad decisions make good stories.
2. Nothing is worse than the moment during an argument when you realize you're totally wrong.
3. I wish I could take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was a kid.
4. Was learning cursive really necessary?
5. Obituaries would be a lot more exciting if they told you how the person died.
6. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
7. What can come after Blue Ray?
8. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my 150 page book that I swear I did not make any changes to.
9. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring and when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What did you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?
10. I hate leaving my house looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste of cool clothes and a good hair day!
11. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call (Abel Cerda and Doug Donaldson).
12. I think the freezer deserves a light as well, don't you?
13. I hate it when you buy a new shirt and discover halfway through the day you forgot to pull off the sticker that has the size. Why don't the idiots we work with tell us these things?
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Proud American . . . . . .
A few months ago I was called for jury duty. Monday morning I showed up at the Mobile County Courthouse ready to exercise my civic duty. It was a proud day to be an American as I eagerly anticipated having the opportunity to listen to oral arguments from opposing attorneys. I was excited to think about hearing evidence and listening to the judge guide us through the process of exercising the rule of law. Justice, honor, power, fairness, innocent until proven guilty, these are a few of the guiding principles that have shaped the greatest nation on earth. This is the part when you should let the National Anthem play in the background of your head. Just imagine your favorite singer beautifully leading the Star Spangled Banner. I was proud . . . . . . And then I walked into the courthouse. I stood in line for thirty minutes to get through the metal detectors. I was horrified when I realized I was in line with criminals. That’s right, sports fans; they made me stand in line with over one hundred criminals. There were drug dealers, thugs, thieves, murderers, rapists, drunk drivers and every other creepy crawly vermin. We were packed into elevators and herded to the eighth floor to sit in what I thought was the jury assembly room.
Much to my surprise, the criminals I stood in line with walked into the jury room. Something had to be wrong. Thinking I had mistakenly been taken to the county holding tank, I asked the bailiff if I was in the right room. "Bailiff, oh Mr. Bailiff," I said as I waved my juror summons in his face. "This can’t be the juror assembly room, can it?"
He assured me that everyone in the room had been summoned to serve as jurors. Great, I thought, I must be the only person in the room with a real job. Okay, I don’t have a real job either but that’s not important right now. Hey, did you know that sometimes the judge will excuse you from jury duty if you are waiting for your own trial to start? Yes, that’s right there was someone in the room who was a juror and a defendant. Only in America! By the way, the bailiff wasn’t amused. He stood still without cracking a smile. I tried to stare at him with the same intensity. Finally, I said, "maybe it would be better if we ignored each other until you go away!" He didn't like that either! Make a mental note - NEVER joke around with a man wearing a badge and carrying a gun.
I was fortunate to be one of the thirty-two out of three hundred who were chosen to stay all week. It was exciting. We showed up every morning and read the newspaper, drank coffee, worked crossword puzzles and ate breakfast. Now I know what thugs do during the day. They deal, kill and steal at night and serve the court by day. Oh wait, that’s the attorneys.
Much to my surprise, the criminals I stood in line with walked into the jury room. Something had to be wrong. Thinking I had mistakenly been taken to the county holding tank, I asked the bailiff if I was in the right room. "Bailiff, oh Mr. Bailiff," I said as I waved my juror summons in his face. "This can’t be the juror assembly room, can it?"
He assured me that everyone in the room had been summoned to serve as jurors. Great, I thought, I must be the only person in the room with a real job. Okay, I don’t have a real job either but that’s not important right now. Hey, did you know that sometimes the judge will excuse you from jury duty if you are waiting for your own trial to start? Yes, that’s right there was someone in the room who was a juror and a defendant. Only in America! By the way, the bailiff wasn’t amused. He stood still without cracking a smile. I tried to stare at him with the same intensity. Finally, I said, "maybe it would be better if we ignored each other until you go away!" He didn't like that either! Make a mental note - NEVER joke around with a man wearing a badge and carrying a gun.
I was fortunate to be one of the thirty-two out of three hundred who were chosen to stay all week. It was exciting. We showed up every morning and read the newspaper, drank coffee, worked crossword puzzles and ate breakfast. Now I know what thugs do during the day. They deal, kill and steal at night and serve the court by day. Oh wait, that’s the attorneys.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Fasting With Muslims! WHAT?
Catching up on recent news and came across an article in the USAToday that ran about a week ago. It was about the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and a couple Christians who decided to fast together for the sake of unity and spiritual growth. In order to really understand this, we need a quick history lesson. Muslims believe Muhammad fasted during Ramadan and received his first vision leading to the writing of the Quran. As Christians, we know Islam is a false religion that leads its followers away from God. Just so you know, Allah is NOT the name of Jehovah God. Jehovah is the only true God and Islam teaches the opposite. I am appalled that Christians would deceive Muslims by giving them the false sense of security their religious practices are meaningful or spiritual.
Loving your neighbor is our command. Engaging in false religious practices for the sake of unity is not love. Our command from Jehovah is to speak the truth in love. We cannon keep that command by engaging in religious practices contrary to that outlined in the Bible.
Here’s another issue. The two Christians mentioned are leaders. One is pastor of a church in Washington. He is fasting with a Muslim partner. In the article the pastor is quoted as saying believes in Jesus but only God has the authority to decide who goes to Hell. Are you kidding me? This guy pastors a Church of Christ church and he doesn’t know how someone goes to Heaven or Hell. Go read the article! You can find it on the USAToday website - search for Muslims Find New Fasting Partners. God clearly delivered His message in the Bible. You know, the book HE wrote. Adrian Rogers once said if he had to condense the Bible to two words, they would be: Jesus Saves.
Another church leader mentioned in the article is Brian McLaren. He is one of the leaders of the Emergent church movement. You may want to do some research on this group. McLaren has made some outrageous statements surrounding the topic of unity and merging world religious beliefs together. This is a scary thought. Christianity is different from all world religions in that Jesus rose from the grave.
Merging false religious practices with true Christian beliefs is a mockery of Jesus’ death. It is deceitful to Muslims or others who need to hear the truth in love.
Loving your neighbor is our command. Engaging in false religious practices for the sake of unity is not love. Our command from Jehovah is to speak the truth in love. We cannon keep that command by engaging in religious practices contrary to that outlined in the Bible.
Here’s another issue. The two Christians mentioned are leaders. One is pastor of a church in Washington. He is fasting with a Muslim partner. In the article the pastor is quoted as saying believes in Jesus but only God has the authority to decide who goes to Hell. Are you kidding me? This guy pastors a Church of Christ church and he doesn’t know how someone goes to Heaven or Hell. Go read the article! You can find it on the USAToday website - search for Muslims Find New Fasting Partners. God clearly delivered His message in the Bible. You know, the book HE wrote. Adrian Rogers once said if he had to condense the Bible to two words, they would be: Jesus Saves.
Another church leader mentioned in the article is Brian McLaren. He is one of the leaders of the Emergent church movement. You may want to do some research on this group. McLaren has made some outrageous statements surrounding the topic of unity and merging world religious beliefs together. This is a scary thought. Christianity is different from all world religions in that Jesus rose from the grave.
Merging false religious practices with true Christian beliefs is a mockery of Jesus’ death. It is deceitful to Muslims or others who need to hear the truth in love.
Monday, September 28, 2009
There I was, stuck in Orlando, FL with 5 RV's and 4 drivers in the fall of 2008. There were several tropical storms and hurricanes threatening FL and the Gulf Coast. If I remember right Hurricane Gustav was already in the Gulf, TS Hanna was threatening FL and Ike had made his presence known in the Atlantic. My responsibility was to sit in Orlando and wait, along with a fleet of RV's. Late one afternoon we got the call to drive north and follow TS Hanna as she approached the Carolina coast. Even though she wasn't a major threat, we wanted to be prepared.
Our convoy started and we headed north from Orlando. It was close to 8 pm when we left so we drove as far north as we could. We were somewhere in GA, close to the SC state line when we decided to stop for the night. Someone in our group had the bright idea that spending the night in a WalMart parking lot was a good idea. I should have known - I've been to that store during the day! I know what Hemingway must have thought at 3 am when the pack of wild cats started meowing! 30 cats in heat can make the most awful noise in the world. Needless to say, I was awake. So when you're stuck at WalMart at 3 am not able to sleep, what should you do? You guessed it. I went shopping. What a mistake. Have you ever wondered where those people who have 12 inch tall spiked mohawks hangout? We see them on TV and occasionally out and about, but I've always wondered where they work or hangout! Yep! You guessed it! They hangout at WalMart. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying they're all vampires but have you ever seen one during the day? I didn't think so. Good news is that I was able to catch a sale on milk, toothpaste, garden hoses, a bike and a good DVD player. I didn't need any of them but I couldn't pass up a good deal, right?
Speaking of vampires, I think Nancy Pelosi is one! Look at her teeth the next time you see her mouth open. Don't pay attention to whatever stupid sentence is coming out of her mouth, just look at her teeth. She's one of them. I know it! And Richard Dreyfus is too! All this vampire talk reminds me of a children's sermon I did once on Vampires, Mummies and the Holy Ghost. Talk about scaring some kids into salvation! They were running all over the church looking for their parents! Needless to say, after that message, I got a visit from the chairman of the personnel committee. That's another story. Enough vampire talk, I'm hungry and it's past breakfast time.
Our convoy started and we headed north from Orlando. It was close to 8 pm when we left so we drove as far north as we could. We were somewhere in GA, close to the SC state line when we decided to stop for the night. Someone in our group had the bright idea that spending the night in a WalMart parking lot was a good idea. I should have known - I've been to that store during the day! I know what Hemingway must have thought at 3 am when the pack of wild cats started meowing! 30 cats in heat can make the most awful noise in the world. Needless to say, I was awake. So when you're stuck at WalMart at 3 am not able to sleep, what should you do? You guessed it. I went shopping. What a mistake. Have you ever wondered where those people who have 12 inch tall spiked mohawks hangout? We see them on TV and occasionally out and about, but I've always wondered where they work or hangout! Yep! You guessed it! They hangout at WalMart. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying they're all vampires but have you ever seen one during the day? I didn't think so. Good news is that I was able to catch a sale on milk, toothpaste, garden hoses, a bike and a good DVD player. I didn't need any of them but I couldn't pass up a good deal, right?
Speaking of vampires, I think Nancy Pelosi is one! Look at her teeth the next time you see her mouth open. Don't pay attention to whatever stupid sentence is coming out of her mouth, just look at her teeth. She's one of them. I know it! And Richard Dreyfus is too! All this vampire talk reminds me of a children's sermon I did once on Vampires, Mummies and the Holy Ghost. Talk about scaring some kids into salvation! They were running all over the church looking for their parents! Needless to say, after that message, I got a visit from the chairman of the personnel committee. That's another story. Enough vampire talk, I'm hungry and it's past breakfast time.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
I was working in Diamond Bar, CA, outside of LA and decided to spend an evening on Hollywood Blvd and Sunset Strip. I made my way in and out of several famous places and eventually settled in the House of Blues. It was a slow night so I had the place t myself, except for the deputy sheriff that sat next to me at the bar. Crime must have taken the night off as well. We started talking and immediately he recognized I was not from Cali. What part of the south are you from was his question. Alabama was my response. Here's where it became interesting. He said he had just gotten back from vacation in AL. I assumed Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. I must have looked shocked when he replied, Mobile. Who is the world vacations in Mobile? Especially if you live in LA. Before you get too far ahead of me, of course me response was "WHY?" According to this guy in LA, Mobile has the best music festival in the country. Yes, that's right! He vacationed to Mobile to attend BayFest. How cool is that? He lives in the music capital of the world and he comes to Mobile to listen to a good festival. How weird is it that I sat in the House of Blues on Sunset Strip talking to a guy who had just visited my hometown. What are the odds?
That reminds me of a time I was working in Chicago. As soon as I introduced mysel to a man I met on the south side of town, he asked what part of AL I was from. How did you know I was from AL, I responded. You have the Bama accent. Mobile, I said. He was originally from Bham but had lived in Chicago for 20 years. I guess we really do live in a small world. And it's now smaller with instant global communication. Spend a little extra time with people you meet this week, you might just be the answer to their prayer. Saints win again!
That reminds me of a time I was working in Chicago. As soon as I introduced mysel to a man I met on the south side of town, he asked what part of AL I was from. How did you know I was from AL, I responded. You have the Bama accent. Mobile, I said. He was originally from Bham but had lived in Chicago for 20 years. I guess we really do live in a small world. And it's now smaller with instant global communication. Spend a little extra time with people you meet this week, you might just be the answer to their prayer. Saints win again!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Had A Giant Hickey
Ok, I couldn't wait until tomorrow! Someone reminded me of a story from 13 years ago. I was student minister at a church in Port Arthur, TX and our daughter, Delaney was around 1. Like most fathers of little kids, I spend most of my time rolling on the floor playing with her toys. One particular day, we were playing and ... Have you ever seen one of those kids toys with the suction cups on one end? You know what I'm talking about. Delaney had one with some kind of rattle or ball on one end and a three inch suction cup from Hell on the other. At the time it seemed like a good idea to ... BTW, don't ever lick a suction cup. It gives them superhero type strength. I stuck the toy to my forehead and let Delaney play. It was only on my head for a minute or two before I realized I made a serious error in judgment. Have you ever seen a three inch hickey? There I was at church the next day, probably preaching, with a giant hickey on my forehead. Good news is it only lasted about a week. I felt better when some dude about 50 told me he did the same thing when his kid was about Delaney's age. Thanks for reminding me of another laugh at my expense.
Red Rover, Red Rover Send .....
Thursday already? Where has the week gone? For some reason I was thinking about the church I attended as a child, FB Chickasaw. I remember many Sunday nights closing the service with the pastor asking everyone to hold hands and sing a song about unity. Some of you may remember the song. I remember getting in trouble once because as we were about to sing I felt a sudden urge, something strong and defiant rising up in my spirit. Those of you who know me well know when this happens it's never good! With the soft church organ playing in the background, I shouted "Red rover, red rover, send the preacher right over!" Now that caused a butt whipping I'll never forget. Not sure why I'm writing about this but it seemed appropriate. I also remember the two most important things I was taught as a child: 1. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom (with soap) and 2. Brush your teeth twice daily.
Here's something else to think about. Remember when God was chatting with Moses through the flaming azalea bush? He told Moses to throw his staff on the ground. It was changed into a snake. Sounds kinda Criss Angel but this one wasn't an illusion. What happened next? Moses picked it up and it became a staff again. Did you know that almost every time after this event Moses' staff was called the staff of God? Look it up! I'm not kidding. WOW! That's significant. Our spiritual application is this: God asks us to put down whatever we are holding (our staff). Once we are willing to let Him have control He is able to change us. Then He gives it back to us and it belongs to Him. I hope this doesn't sound too confusing but God takes what we give Him, molds it into something useful, gives it back and with it we are able to perform great miracles. That's what God told Moses. "Use this staff to perform great signs and miracles."
If you're holding onto anything maybe you should give it to God and allow Him to do the changing. That reminds me of something Jesus said to the people standing around watching while He raised Lazarus. Maybe I'll write about that next time. Don't forget to wash your hands and maybe play Red Rover this afternoon.
Here's something else to think about. Remember when God was chatting with Moses through the flaming azalea bush? He told Moses to throw his staff on the ground. It was changed into a snake. Sounds kinda Criss Angel but this one wasn't an illusion. What happened next? Moses picked it up and it became a staff again. Did you know that almost every time after this event Moses' staff was called the staff of God? Look it up! I'm not kidding. WOW! That's significant. Our spiritual application is this: God asks us to put down whatever we are holding (our staff). Once we are willing to let Him have control He is able to change us. Then He gives it back to us and it belongs to Him. I hope this doesn't sound too confusing but God takes what we give Him, molds it into something useful, gives it back and with it we are able to perform great miracles. That's what God told Moses. "Use this staff to perform great signs and miracles."
If you're holding onto anything maybe you should give it to God and allow Him to do the changing. That reminds me of something Jesus said to the people standing around watching while He raised Lazarus. Maybe I'll write about that next time. Don't forget to wash your hands and maybe play Red Rover this afternoon.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
DON'T SPANK YOUR KIDS
My parents didn't believe in spanking! I'm sure you're thinking, "well that's what happened." Don't judge them! They did what they thought was right in the eyes of the Lord. No spanking! My grandfather was a cop so he had access to all kinds of cool gadgets. My parents were the first to have a handheld taser! You guessed it, no spanking but when we got out of line it was electrocution time! I still remember saying something sarcastic to my mom and from nowhere, out of the blue, my dad zapped me from behind. With my body convulsing on the floor, and my mom saying "hit him again!" I realized some things just aren't worth it. So it you're having problems with your kids, let me know. I'll send you the info to order your very own taser. Three easy payments of $29.95.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Woo Hoo! I have arrived. I’m sure most of you have missed me but we’ll talk about that later. Most of you have been on FB, Blogging or Twitter for some time now. I’m relatively new to this whole networking thing. It’s been great to catch up and see how many of my old friends spent more time in jail than me. In reconnecting, I’ve been flooded with memories from the past which have prompted these random thoughts from the fringe.
Even though I graduated high school in 1986, 1985 was the best year. Most of the memories had faded but are now back – mainly due to my daily dose of prozac. My plans were simple back then. Dreams of running sound for Motley Crue and Whitesnake or producing music videos for the Chili Peppers still dance in my head. Remember when MTV still played videos? We had Madonna long before Nirvana. I still remember when my now 12 year old daughter (Ashyln) discovered my old Ramones CD’s a couple years ago. I’m a good parent; stop judging! Just because she sang Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue in line at Target one day doesn’t mean I’m not! Listening to Limp Bizkit isn’t the same as Duran Duran.
I’m shocked that my favorite 80’s movies are now classics. I can still quote lines from the Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, Porky’s and Fast Times at Ridgmont High. That reminds me of the time when my other daughter, (Delaney) who is now 14, was 5. She playfully asked me to have a seat on the edge of her bed and close my eyes. Right then I should have known. Parents, NEVER close your eyes in front of your kids! It’s a trap! With my eyes closed waiting for something fun and playful, I felt the harsh, brutal thud from her hard suitcase slam into my forehead. Even 5 year olds can sling things hard enough to knock adults into next week.
There I was laid out about to lose consciousness when I heard her 5 year old voice say, “Say hello to my little friend.” In my dazed condition I was horrified and proud at the same time. My daughter quoted Scarface – at 5! She even added the Cuban accent. What a moment! Laid out with my forehead about to explode; listening to her shout! I guess in her mind it was funny! Come to think of it, I think it was her grandmother’s fault! She gave my daughter an old hard suitcase. One of those every grandparent has in their attic from the 1940’s. Hey grandparents, listen up! Grandchildren are not your opportunity to get revenge on your children! Stop it! It’s not funny!
Anyway, back to 1985. Springsteen and Van Halen were blowing us away long before Jay Z and Beyonce. Even Christian music was wild back in the day. Remember Mylon LeFevre and Broken Heart? What about Bryan Duncan, Charlie Peacock or Stryper? How could we forget Petra or DeGarmo and Key? Do you remember that White Heart’s original lead singer was Steve Green? What? Are you kidding? Just thought about David and the Giants and Steve Taylor.
Oh well, with snakeskin min skirts, wayfarer sunglasses, collars turned up, parachute pants, big hair and all; the 80’s still rule!
Even though I graduated high school in 1986, 1985 was the best year. Most of the memories had faded but are now back – mainly due to my daily dose of prozac. My plans were simple back then. Dreams of running sound for Motley Crue and Whitesnake or producing music videos for the Chili Peppers still dance in my head. Remember when MTV still played videos? We had Madonna long before Nirvana. I still remember when my now 12 year old daughter (Ashyln) discovered my old Ramones CD’s a couple years ago. I’m a good parent; stop judging! Just because she sang Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue in line at Target one day doesn’t mean I’m not! Listening to Limp Bizkit isn’t the same as Duran Duran.
I’m shocked that my favorite 80’s movies are now classics. I can still quote lines from the Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, Porky’s and Fast Times at Ridgmont High. That reminds me of the time when my other daughter, (Delaney) who is now 14, was 5. She playfully asked me to have a seat on the edge of her bed and close my eyes. Right then I should have known. Parents, NEVER close your eyes in front of your kids! It’s a trap! With my eyes closed waiting for something fun and playful, I felt the harsh, brutal thud from her hard suitcase slam into my forehead. Even 5 year olds can sling things hard enough to knock adults into next week.
There I was laid out about to lose consciousness when I heard her 5 year old voice say, “Say hello to my little friend.” In my dazed condition I was horrified and proud at the same time. My daughter quoted Scarface – at 5! She even added the Cuban accent. What a moment! Laid out with my forehead about to explode; listening to her shout! I guess in her mind it was funny! Come to think of it, I think it was her grandmother’s fault! She gave my daughter an old hard suitcase. One of those every grandparent has in their attic from the 1940’s. Hey grandparents, listen up! Grandchildren are not your opportunity to get revenge on your children! Stop it! It’s not funny!
Anyway, back to 1985. Springsteen and Van Halen were blowing us away long before Jay Z and Beyonce. Even Christian music was wild back in the day. Remember Mylon LeFevre and Broken Heart? What about Bryan Duncan, Charlie Peacock or Stryper? How could we forget Petra or DeGarmo and Key? Do you remember that White Heart’s original lead singer was Steve Green? What? Are you kidding? Just thought about David and the Giants and Steve Taylor.
Oh well, with snakeskin min skirts, wayfarer sunglasses, collars turned up, parachute pants, big hair and all; the 80’s still rule!
Monday, September 21, 2009
God provides strength for the journey. By now, you have realized the Christian life is a marathon not a sprint. If you’re like me, sometimes you lose sight of that. Things happen that distract us from our focus. Sometimes, the distractions are spiritual victories not problems or difficulties. Take Elijah for example, in I Kings 18, he gained a huge spiritual victory. This is the story of his challenge to Baal’s prophets for a showdown. The altars were built and sacrifices made. You know the rest of the story; God consumed Elijah’s sacrifice showing everyone God was God. Following this victory, Elijah learned Jezebel put out a contract for his death. I’m not sure if a Sopranos style hit was ordered but Elijah feared for his life. He skipped town and hid in the wilderness.
Chapter 19
5. Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat."
6. He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
7. The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you."
8. So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.
Check this out! Following his spiritual victory and subsequent retreat, God provided much needed nourishment. In verse 6, the meal was to replenish Elijah from what he had lost during the spiritual battle. In verse 7, God does something amazing. He provides a second meal. “The journey is too much for you.” The second meal wasn’t to replenish, it was for provision for where Elijah was going! God provides nourishment for where we have been but more importantly, He provides for where we are going. All too often we are like Elijah trying to make the journey in our own strength. It is too much for us.
Whether you have faced a spiritual valley or climbed a spiritual mountain, God will provide what you need for the journey! If you caught that, you need to call somebody; forget that, maybe you should text somebody or tweet somebody. This should be all over your wall! The God who hung the moon and scattered the stars cares enough about us to take us on a journey and He is the provision for where we are going.
Chapter 19
5. Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat."
6. He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
7. The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you."
8. So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.
Check this out! Following his spiritual victory and subsequent retreat, God provided much needed nourishment. In verse 6, the meal was to replenish Elijah from what he had lost during the spiritual battle. In verse 7, God does something amazing. He provides a second meal. “The journey is too much for you.” The second meal wasn’t to replenish, it was for provision for where Elijah was going! God provides nourishment for where we have been but more importantly, He provides for where we are going. All too often we are like Elijah trying to make the journey in our own strength. It is too much for us.
Whether you have faced a spiritual valley or climbed a spiritual mountain, God will provide what you need for the journey! If you caught that, you need to call somebody; forget that, maybe you should text somebody or tweet somebody. This should be all over your wall! The God who hung the moon and scattered the stars cares enough about us to take us on a journey and He is the provision for where we are going.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The House
In 1858, Abraham Lincoln accepted the presidential nomination for the Republican Party. In his acceptance speech, he quoted Matthew 12:25, using the phrase A house divided cannot stand. He was referring to the United States being divided over states rights. In thinking about a divided house from Matthew's point of view, we need to take a look at the Hebrew culture of his day. His readers were mostly Jewish and they understood his metaphor deeply. The House must be understood in terms of its importance in Jewish culture. Remember, it was the placing of sacrificial blood on their houses that spared them as the Death Angel passed over in Egypt. In the Old Testament, God was in the House (Tabernacle/Temple) dwelling in the Holy of Holies, as evidenced by the ark of the covenant. In the New Testament, God was out of the House - manifested in Jesus Christ. The physical embodiment of God's presence. Following the resurrection of Christ and the coming of the Holy Spirit, WE BECAME THE HOUSE. Think about it - God was in the House, out of the House and now because the Holy Spirit dwells within all believers, WE ARE THE HOUSE! An amazing transformation has occured over time and we are the recipients of an amazing gift - to become the actual dwelling place (House) of the Spirit of God!
Water, Water Everywhere
This may get lengthy but hang on until the end and you will be blessed. Trust me, I'm not a doctor and I don't play on on TV but if you hang on for the ride, God will show you something kool! Remember the epic poem, Rime of the Ancient Mariner? The famous phrase "Water, water everywhere without a drop to drink." Over 70% of the world is covered with water. It is the basic element necessary to sustain life. No wonder Jesus said He was the water of life. Classic literature is filled with metaphors about characters who transform after they struggle with water. Think about it - Moby Dick, Huckleberry Finn, The Old Man and the Sea, A River Runs Through It. Even Deliverance! I just had to throw that one in. Famous stories revolving in or around the transforming power of water. That's why water baptism is used as a symbol of new life! Hang on, we're getting to the good stuff. What's the most famous water story of all time? It has to be the world wide great flood, right? Noah's Ark as we were taught as children. The real story behind the flood is that God made a way for man to be saved. Catch this, no pun intended, The Bible starts and ends with references to water. Genesis 1:2 And the Spirit moved over the face of the waters.In Rev. 22, the final chapter is full of references to the river of life. Are you wondering why the Book starts and ends with water? Yea, me too. Read Psalm 84 and you might get an answer. Verse 6 says that as they traveled through the Valley of Baca (Tears), they made it a place of springs or wells. The rain fell from above and they made it from strength to strength. Go get your Bible and read it! Now, go read it now! Here's the story and application: This Psalm was written by David while hiding from Absolam. He watched travelers make their way to Jerusalem while walking through the dry valley of Baca. There was no water except the wells dug by other travelers. They survived by making it from well to well. Here's the spiritual application for us today. No matter what difficulty you are facing today, someone else has already been there. Hopefully, they dug a well for you to gain strength to make it a little further on your journey. That's what Christians do for each other! We help each other make it from strength to strength or well to well. If you're stuck in a dry valley today, DIG A WELL. God will provide the rain to fill up the springs. Isn't it kool to know the refreshing water comes from above? The well you dig will help you today and someone else tomorrow. So what are we to do? Simple, grab a shovel and start digging. We are all on a journey similar to that of the two snails that made it to the ark! Think about it. What a picture of perseverance for the Christian life. Two snails actually made it to the ark. What a adventure that must have been for those two determined creatures? Plant yourself in a well, gain strength, move to another well and persevere on the journey like those two little snails. Why does God use water as a powerful metaphor for life? Because he likes to fish, duh!
OMLWSWD
OMLWSWD
I Kings 6:15 – Elisha’s servant left the city and saw a great army had encircled the city. Their lives were in danger. In fear, he shouted, “Oh my lord, what shall we do?” Today we might say something like “Oh my God, what am I gonna do?” Sound familiar? Too many times we look in the face of a crisis and wonder what are we gonna do. Wouldn’t it be more effective to approach a crisis, problem or difficult situation by believing God is in control? Read on to verse 16 – Elisha said do not fear for those with us out number those against. Verse 17 – The servant’s eyes were opened and he saw angels with flaming chariots outnumbering the bad guys! Wow! Even though he could not see God’s provision, God provided salvation. What an amazing picture of God’s love for us. No matter what we face, God is in control. He has made a way for our protection.
Sometimes we may feel trapped in our situation. Maybe it seems hopeless? It isn’t. Remember the movie The Lion King? There was a powerful scene that illustrates God’s provision for Elisha and us. The scene took place when young Simba convinced Nala to go to the edge of the land to explore the elephant graveyard. If you remember, the hyenas cornered Simba and Nala. The young cubs were backed into a corner with the situation seeming hopeless; their backs literally against the mountain with no where to go. With the hyenas approaching, Simba let out his most ferocious kitty cat sounding roar. His road was so pathetic the hyenas laughed. Sounds like us, huh? We allow the enemy to back us into a corner and when we roar in our own strength, he laughs. The most significant part of the scene happens while the hyenas are laughing. Young Simba roars again; this time a thunderous, ferocious road is heard while Simba’s mouth is open. Even he is surprised at the sound. It wasn’t Simba, it was Mufasa – the king. He spoke for his young son. Mufasa had Simba’s back. WOW! Did you catch that? When we are backed into a corner, and the Devil is laughing, God roars on our behalf. His thunderous roar sends the enemy cowering. As Simba and the hyenas heard Mufasa’s roar; we hear God’s voice speak through us.
No matter what you’re facing; how hopeless it may seem; God is in control. He will speak for you! OMLWSWD? What are we going to do? Let God be God and trust that He has your back!
I Kings 6:15 – Elisha’s servant left the city and saw a great army had encircled the city. Their lives were in danger. In fear, he shouted, “Oh my lord, what shall we do?” Today we might say something like “Oh my God, what am I gonna do?” Sound familiar? Too many times we look in the face of a crisis and wonder what are we gonna do. Wouldn’t it be more effective to approach a crisis, problem or difficult situation by believing God is in control? Read on to verse 16 – Elisha said do not fear for those with us out number those against. Verse 17 – The servant’s eyes were opened and he saw angels with flaming chariots outnumbering the bad guys! Wow! Even though he could not see God’s provision, God provided salvation. What an amazing picture of God’s love for us. No matter what we face, God is in control. He has made a way for our protection.
Sometimes we may feel trapped in our situation. Maybe it seems hopeless? It isn’t. Remember the movie The Lion King? There was a powerful scene that illustrates God’s provision for Elisha and us. The scene took place when young Simba convinced Nala to go to the edge of the land to explore the elephant graveyard. If you remember, the hyenas cornered Simba and Nala. The young cubs were backed into a corner with the situation seeming hopeless; their backs literally against the mountain with no where to go. With the hyenas approaching, Simba let out his most ferocious kitty cat sounding roar. His road was so pathetic the hyenas laughed. Sounds like us, huh? We allow the enemy to back us into a corner and when we roar in our own strength, he laughs. The most significant part of the scene happens while the hyenas are laughing. Young Simba roars again; this time a thunderous, ferocious road is heard while Simba’s mouth is open. Even he is surprised at the sound. It wasn’t Simba, it was Mufasa – the king. He spoke for his young son. Mufasa had Simba’s back. WOW! Did you catch that? When we are backed into a corner, and the Devil is laughing, God roars on our behalf. His thunderous roar sends the enemy cowering. As Simba and the hyenas heard Mufasa’s roar; we hear God’s voice speak through us.
No matter what you’re facing; how hopeless it may seem; God is in control. He will speak for you! OMLWSWD? What are we going to do? Let God be God and trust that He has your back!
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