Bad things

If I were on that ship I would be terrified!! Just the thought of drowning is unsettling. Still, the picture is interesting because it portrays what could happen in real life. Ships sink, people die. Harsh reality, but true. But what if a ship sinking was a "good thing"? Consider this passage from the book of Acts.

Act 27:9 When much time had passed and the voyage was now dangerous, because the Fast had now already gone by, Paul admonished them,
Act 27:10 and said to them, "Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives."
Act 27:11 But the centurion gave more heed to the master and to the owner of the ship than to those things which were spoken by Paul.
Act 27:12 Because the haven was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised going to sea from there, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, and winter there, which is a port of Crete, looking northeast and southeast.
Act 27:13 When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, close to shore.
Act 27:14 But before long, a stormy wind beat down from shore, which is called Euroclydon.
Act 27:15 When the ship was caught, and couldn't face the wind, we gave way to it, and were driven along.
Act 27:16 Running under the lee of a small island called Clauda, we were able, with difficulty, to secure the boat.
Act 27:17 After they had hoisted it up, they used cables to help reinforce the ship. Fearing that they would run aground on the Syrtis sand bars, they lowered the sea anchor, and so were driven along.
Act 27:18 As we labored exceedingly with the storm, the next day they began to throw things overboard.
Act 27:19 On the third day, they threw out the ship's tackle with their own hands.
Act 27:20 When neither sun nor stars shone on us for many days, and no small storm pressed on us, all hope that we would be saved was now taken away.
Act 27:21 When they had been long without food, Paul stood up in the middle of them, and said, "Sirs, you should have listened to me, and not have set sail from Crete, and have gotten this injury and loss.
Act 27:22 Now I exhort you to cheer up, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.
Act 27:23 For there stood by me this night an angel, belonging to the God whose I am and whom I serve,
Act 27:24 saying, 'Don't be afraid, Paul. You must stand before Caesar. Behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.'
Act 27:25 Therefore, sirs, cheer up! For I believe God, that it will be just as it has been spoken to me.
Act 27:26 But we must run aground on a certain island."

World English Bible

The bad news: This ship will sink. The good news: Your lives will be spared. Why, because an angel of God had told Paul so. They did escape and God used their situation to the betterment of the proclamation of the Gospel. God works like that; sometimes bad things happen to us in order that something greater can be accomplished. So, the next time something really, really bad happens in your life consider that it may be a stepping stone to something really wonderful!

Have faith

I am confused and that doesn't happen often. How is just printing money going to help? If there is more money out there, doesn't that cause each individual dollar to be worth less? So, what next? Are we to really sit idly by and do nothing? Not at all; we have a great power at our disposal called prayer and we know that God works all things out in his own time. But its MONEY; YOU KNOW, THE STUFF WE NEED TO LIVE? Money can be a spiritual trap and its trust a disciples downfall. Jesus had to deal with those who would try to trick him and here is how HE DEALT WITH IT!

Matthew
Mat 22:15 Then the Pharisees went and took counsel how they might entrap him in his talk.
Mat 22:16 They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter who you teach, for you aren't partial to anyone.
Mat 22:17 Tell us therefore, what do you think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?"
Mat 22:18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, "Why do you test me, you hypocrites?
Mat 22:19 Show me the tax money." They brought to him a denarius.
Mat 22:20 He asked them, "Whose is this image and inscription?"
Mat 22:21 They said to him, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
Mat 22:22 When they heard it, they marveled, and left him, and went away.

World English Bible

Jesus' attitude should be ours; let the government govern, that is their job. Our president is trying to do his job; LET HIM! Let the government print its dollars; it doesn't have to make sense (or cents, if you think about its true worth), God is ultimately in control. Our worries will subside in direct proportion to our faith. Have faith, pray and don't stop praying, I think our country needs it!

Don't look for gold.

There is an Irish tale that says there is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and there's the end, but where is the gold? Its right in front of you but you can't see it. No, I am not trying to confuse you, just to make a point; the lighthouse is gold to the seamen when the light is on. This little item could save their lives and that's worth more than any bar of gold anyone could dream up. Apart from the physical lighthouse, there is the light it shines forth; light to guide, to illuminate, to provide a safe haven of rest. I like what the apostle John has to say at the beginning of his book about light.

Joh 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Joh 1:2 The same was in the beginning with God.
Joh 1:3 All things were made through him. Without him was not anything made that has been made.
Joh 1:4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men.
Joh 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness hasn't overcome it.
Joh 1:6 There came a man, sent from God, whose name was John.
Joh 1:7 The same came as a witness, that he might testify about the light, that all might believe through him.
Joh 1:8 He was not the light, but was sent that he might testify about the light.
Joh 1:9 The true light that enlightens everyone was coming into the world.
Joh 1:10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, and the world didn't recognize him.
Joh 1:11 He came to his own, and those who were his own didn't receive him.
Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become God's children, to those who believe in his name:
Joh 1:13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Joh 1:14 The Word became flesh, and lived among us. We saw his glory, such glory as of the one and only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.
Joh 1:15 John testified about him. He cried out, saying, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has surpassed me, for he was before me.' "
Joh 1:16 From his fullness we all received grace upon grace.
Joh 1:17 For the law was given through Moses. Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
Joh 1:18 No one has seen God at any time. The one and only Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him.

World English Bible

Jesus made light and life, became light and life and gives light and life to those who will see it. Not everyone can, but when illuminated with spiritual power, understanding and change is possible. This change is like being born all over again and with this new spiritual insight life becomes new. So, don't look for gold, rather, look for insight from Jesus, because HE is the message from the father and that message is really good news to those who see what HE IS SAYING.

STOP, LOOK AND LISTEN

There is something about being in the wilderness; something about communing with nature that says "renewal" with every breath. Place yourself in that building for a moment; what would it be like? Four walls, some windows, a front porch and even a small building out back (maybe an outhouse or storage shed, who knows?). No one else around; absolutely no one!! No telephone to bother you (a cell would probably not work with THOSE MOUNTAINS so close), no TV, no distractions whatever. What WOULD YOU DO? Hunt, probably; read, certainly; think, absolutely!! So, what WOULD YOU THINK ABOUT? I can't say for certain, but with all that scenery around, probably NOT YOURSELF! Eventually all those things we do that revolve around us would become a distant memory and we would become one with the background. Maybe that's what we all need; to stop having the world revolve around us. God has a way of using our surroundings to make us think and then CHANGE! One of my favorite stories is that of Elijah, AFTER his confrontation with the Baal prophets, when he fears for HIS life. God reaches out to him to get his attention and change his life.

The book of 1st Kings

1Ki 19:1 Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword.
1Ki 19:2 Then Jezebel send a messenger to Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I don't make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.
1Ki 19:3 When he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.
1Ki 19:4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die, and said, It is enough; now, O Yahweh, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.
1Ki 19:5 He lay down and slept under a juniper tree; and behold, an angel touched him, and said to him, Arise and eat.
1Ki 19:6 He looked, and behold, there was at his head a cake baked on the coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and laid down again.
1Ki 19:7 The angel of Yahweh came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat, because the journey is too great for you.
1Ki 19:8 He arose, and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb the Mount of God.
1Ki 19:9 He came there to a cave, and lodged there; and behold, the word of Yahweh came to him, and he said to him, What are you doing here, Elijah?
1Ki 19:10 He said, I have been very jealous for Yahweh, the God of Armies; for the children of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and slain your prophets with the sword: and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.
1Ki 19:11 He said, Go forth, and stand on the mountain before Yahweh. Behold, Yahweh passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before Yahweh; but Yahweh was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but Yahweh was not in the earthquake:
1Ki 19:12 and after the earthquake a fire; but Yahweh was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
1Ki 19:13 It was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entrance of the cave. Behold, there came a voice to him, and said, What are you doing here, Elijah?
1Ki 19:14 He said, I have been very jealous for Yahweh, the God of Armies; for the children of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and slain your prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.
1Ki 19:15 Yahweh said to him, Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when you come, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria;
1Ki 19:16 and you shall anoint Jehu the son of Nimshi to be king over Israel; and you shall anoint Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel Meholah to be prophet in your place.
1Ki 19:17 It shall happen, that he who escapes from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu kill; and he who escapes from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha kill.
1Ki 19:18 Yet will I leave me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth which has not kissed him.

1Ki 19:19 So he departed there.......

The World English Bible

I like Elijah because this passage shows a second side of him; an unflattering side, but one that I can relate to. Elijah had performed miracles in the name of Yahweh, but was afraid of Jezebel. Sometimes, the closer you get to heaven, the longer the fall to Earth; the more you do, the more there is to lose. So, Elijah ran for his life! But, in the wilderness, Yahweh reaches out to him and finally gets through to him. How typically human Elijah is and how frail we as human beings really are. Yet God knows our faults and cares about us; HE reaches out to us in many ways; being alone in the wilderness is just one of them. It begins with us: We need to STOP, LOOK AND LISTEN to the world around us without ourselves being in the way. When we do this, we may find out we have a lot of company, maybe even "seven thousand" others who are a lot like us! Wait a minute, I can't be certain, but did someone say something to me: it wasn't very loud, so I guess I will just have to be silent and LISTEN!!!

Book 'em Dan-O

If you are over 50, then this picture will probably remind you of one show: Hawaii -5O. If the name doesn't ring a bell, how about "Book 'em Dan-O". A seventies show through and through, the plot was a little predictable, but the scenery was spectacular! As I remember, it was on quite a few years, but I couldn't tell you how long. One thing was certain, the police always got their man (or woman as the "case"might be). Somehow, I wish life could be like that show; in the space of an hour (45 minutes if you exclude the commercials) whatever crime was committed was solved and the legal system had already begun to grind the offender into the pumice soil of the islands. Real life isn't like that; the wicked sometimes seem to get away with whatever they want to do and never seem to get their "just desserts". Even the best of us have bad things happen to us; consider the Apostle Paul's attitude in the last book he "penned".

2nd Timothy

2Ti 4:14 Alexander, the coppersmith, did much evil to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works,
2Ti 4:15 of whom you also must beware; for he greatly opposed our words.
2Ti 4:16 At my first defense, no one came to help me, but all left me. May it not be held against them.
2Ti 4:17 But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me, that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
2Ti 4:18 And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me for his heavenly Kingdom; to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

World English Bible

Paul had a problem with Alexander actions and he put it in the hands of the judge of all the Earth; God. He knew that he didn't have much time left and wasn't going to see this man punished, but he also knew that God views things on a MUCH BIGGER TIME SCALE. So, the next time you see someone do something wrong, remember that God will eventually make everything right, but it might take a lot more than an hour. On the last day, when all history is reviewed in heaven and the final judgments are pronounced, I wonder if the commercials are included? One thing is certain, when God books em, they stay booked!

Just another fork in the road

"Did you ever have to make up your mind, pick up on one and let the other one ride; its not always easy and its not often kind, did you ever have finally decide" sang the Lovin Spoonful back in the 60's. Sometimes you just have to do it; make a decision. How? Well, how do you decide anything? Are all decisions the same; I don't think so! Which candy to buy or which player to choose for the ball team is just not the same how many exemptions to claim for taxes or who will be your spouse for life. Bottom line is... the more important the decision, more care should be taken. Your intuition may be fine for choosing candy, but I think its wise to think awhile before buying a house. Face it, when it comes to the REALLY IMPORTANT decisions in life, EVERYTHING comes into play; The mind, experience, intuition, advice, friends... absolutely EVERYTHING!!! What is the most important decision you will ever make; does it involve your career, your spouse, your home, your car or something else?? Read this short passage to find out.

Matthew
Mat 16:13 Now when Jesus came into the parts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, "Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?"
Mat 16:14 They said, "Some say John the Baptizer, some, Elijah, and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."
Mat 16:15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"
Mat 16:16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Mat 16:17 Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
Mat 16:18 I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.
Mat 16:19 I will give to you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven; and whatever you release on earth will have been released in heaven."
Mat 16:20 Then he commanded the disciples that they should tell no one that he is Jesus the Christ.

World English Bible

We value things by their duration; a car lasts longer than a bouquet of flowers and a house lasts longer than a car, that's why diamonds cost more than cotton candy. What is the longest lasting thing you can think of; for me, its forever with God. The way there is by making a decision to follow and obey Jesus. That begins with making a decision about who he is and that is a fork in the road everyone must be confronted with. So, carefully use EVERYTHING YOU HAVE; consider all you want, but make the right choice and never, ever, ever look back, your life depends on it because forever is a long, long, long, long time!

Do-4

This is a prime example of what I refer to as a do-4; that is, something you substitute in an emergency. In 1966 I was driving my '56 Pontiac through the Ferry tunnel in Troy, NY, when all of a sudden my engine started revving. When I looked under the hood, I noticed that the linkage for the carburetor had come off. So, I took off my shoe lace and tied it together. It worked so well that I ran it that way for two whole years. Sometimes you just have to make-do. Jesus was faced with a problem of having to make-do; Matthew tells the tale.

Mat 14:14 Jesus went out, and he saw a great multitude. He had compassion on them, and healed their sick.
Mat 14:15 When evening had come, his disciples came to him, saying, "This place is deserted, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves food."
Mat 14:16 But Jesus said to them, "They don't need to go away. You give them something to eat."
Mat 14:17 They told him, "We only have here five loaves and two fish."
Mat 14:18 He said, "Bring them here to me."
Mat 14:19 He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass; and he took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave to the multitudes.
Mat 14:20 They all ate, and were filled. They took up twelve baskets full of that which remained left over from the broken pieces.
Mat 14:21 Those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

World English Bible


Jesus only had a couple of fish and five loaves of bread and he fed something over five thousand people. The disciples didn't know what to do, but Jesus did; pray! There is power in prayer, awesome power. I can only tell you that when my car acted up in the tunnel, boy, did I pray. Why, because if I didn't get Linda home on time, she would have been immediately grounded, that's why. I can't tell what they attached the mirror in the picture with, but whatever works, works! Humm, I wonder if they prayed first?

There will be a test

Ever done this? If you have teenagers, I guarantee it! The eternal "why" and the search for understanding is part of what makes us human. We start out with questions of origin, consider morality, followed by the meaning of life and finally, eternal destiny. Philosophers call it our "world view", but I just call it growing up. We begin with ourselves and end with God; simple. Consider the greatest thinker of all time: Solomon.

Ecclesiastes

Ecc 12:8 Vanity of vanities saith the preacher; all is vanity.
Ecc 12:9 And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge: yes, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs.
Ecc 12:10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.
Ecc 12:11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
Ecc 12:12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
Ecc 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecc 12:14 For God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good, or whether it is evil.

Webster Bible

No matter how smart you are, I guarantee there is someone smarter. You may have to look for a long time, but sooner or later.... bamm, you are humbled. It is very good to learn and to consider one's condition in the light of God's word is wisdom. If, after much reflection you think you know yourself very well, then wait, tomorrow you will change again. Solomon summed it up succinctly in the last two verses of the book, consider what God wants you to do and do it; there will be a test.... judgment day.

Don't hold back

This picture reminds me of an old song by Larry Verne: "Mr. Custer". The first verse goes like this: "Please Mr. Custer, I don't wanna go, Hey, Mr. Custer, please don't make me go. I had a dream last night about the comin' fight, Somebody yelled "attack!"And there I stood with a arrow in my back." Ok, you probably don't remember it, but it was way back in 1960 and I do. Both the picture and the song do say something interesting, though. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations that no matter what we do, something bad is going to happen. Paul was told about just such a thing; read on to see how he handled it in the book of Acts.

Act 21:1 When it happened that we had parted from them and had set sail, we came with a straight course to Cos, and the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara.
Act 21:2 Having found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard, and set sail.
Act 21:3 When we had come in sight of Cyprus, leaving it on the left hand, we sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre, for there the ship was to unload her cargo.
Act 21:4 Having found disciples, we stayed there seven days. These said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
Act 21:5 When it happened that we had accomplished the days, we departed and went on our journey. They all, with wives and children, brought us on our way until we were out of the city. Kneeling down on the beach, we prayed.
Act 21:6 After saying goodbye to each other, we went on board the ship, and they returned home again.
Act 21:7 When we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais. We greeted the brothers, and stayed with them one day.
Act 21:8 On the next day, we, who were Paul's companions, departed, and came to Caesarea. We entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him.
Act 21:9 Now this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied.
Act 21:10 As we stayed there some days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea.
Act 21:11 Coming to us, and taking Paul's belt, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit: 'So will the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and will deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' "
Act 21:12 When we heard these things, both we and they of that place begged him not to go up to Jerusalem.
Act 21:13 Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
Act 21:14 When he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, "The Lord's will be done."

Agabus confirmed what Paul had already heard; he should not go up to Jerusalem. He was unwilling to listen, unafraid of the consequences. There is something so brave and yet so submissive about the man that it is a little scary. Try to put yourself in his situation and ask yourself: would I do the same? Probably not, yet Paul was a man that God had put on a mission and he knew it. He also knew that in the end he would be with The Lord Jesus, so there was nothing to fear. Death is nothing to fear as long as you know life follows. So, be like Paul, don't hold back, jump right in and do what God is leading you to do; who knows, you might actually like the water?

Suspense

Well, I don't think there is any doubt which baby belongs to the couple outside the nursery. Just goes to show you that there is someone for EVERYBODY! Beauty really is in the eye of the beholder. Who knows, maybe the child with the bag over its head is better looking than either one of its parents and perhaps be a future Einstein. This cartoon reminds me of a passage from the sermon on the mount found in the book of Matthew.

Mat 7:1 "Don't judge, so that you won't be judged.
Mat 7:2 For with whatever judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with whatever measure you measure, it will be measured to you.
Mat 7:3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but don't consider the beam that is in your own eye?
Mat 7:4 Or how will you tell your brother, 'Let me remove the speck from your eye;' and behold, the beam is in your own eye?
Mat 7:5 You hypocrite! First remove the beam out of your own eye, and then you can see clearly to remove the speck out of your brother's eye.

World English Bible

Its human nature to find fault with others and yet ignore MY OWN FAULTS. Yet, here Jesus is calling this for what it really is: Hypocrisy! I have always been impressed how Jesus can be gentle with those who deserve it and harsh with those of a hard heart. Beginning today, I am going to try to be more understanding with those around me and look at the motives of my own heart more often. Who knows, someday when I am MUCH OLDER and in a nursing home some attendant may hand me a bag to put over my head; I hope they still will make paper, plastic bags could be fatal.

Pot-luck

1982. I was on a try-out for a preaching position in Minnesota. After teaching the adult class and presenting a sermon, I was treated to a pot-luck something like this only MUCH, MUCH LARGER. The food was delicious, but since I had to try every one's favorite dish, I had the weirdest combination of foods I had ever had. One leg of the flight home was on a small nine passenger plane and we ran into a severe storm. We went up and down hundreds of feet at a time and you guessed it... I started to turn green. As we hit the runway, I used the bag provided for airsickness and filled it completely. As we deplaned a Cherie stewardess was about to ask me how my flight was, but I placed the warm bag in her hands. When she realized what the warmth meant, she didn't know what to say, but attempted a smile and just nodded her head knowingly. I really don't know if this episode made her think about what she did, but I know I did. Sometimes you can see things happening to you and you don't know WHY and other times you realize their importance later. I saw how professionally the stewardess acted and this example has stayed with me all these years. When I encounter a difficult customer, I remember this episode and try to be the best I can, REGARDLESS OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES. The Apostle Paul was faced with something like this in the book of 2nd Corinthians.

2Co 12:1 It is doubtless not profitable for me to boast. For I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.
2Co 12:2 I know a man in Christ, fourteen years ago (whether in the body, I don't know, or whether out of the body, I don't know; God knows), such a one caught up into the third heaven.
2Co 12:3 I know such a man (whether in the body, or outside of the body, I don't know; God knows),
2Co 12:4 how he was caught up into Paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
2Co 12:5 On behalf of such a one I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except in my weaknesses.
2Co 12:6 For if I would desire to boast, I will not be foolish; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, so that no man may think more of me than that which he sees in me, or hears from me.
2Co 12:7 By reason of the exceeding greatness of the revelations, that I should not be exalted excessively, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, that I should not be exalted excessively.
2Co 12:8 Concerning this thing, I begged the Lord three times that it might depart from me.
2Co 12:9 He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me.
2Co 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then am I strong.

World English Bible

God had blessed Paul. His thorn in the flesh was a reminder to be humble; a little lesson to help him grow spiritually. When bad things happen, it is best to learn from the situation and grow as a result. A professor of mine used to say: "When bad things happen, you either get bitter or better". I probably could have learned this lesson another way, but the memory of the shock on that poor lady's face did the trick... I remembered and learned. However, I just wish I had not turned green because that was the color of my suit; I must have looked like a giant green pea.

Death and taxes

People who die remain dead; obviously the person who wrote this headline meant to say it a little differently. I have not personally seen someone come back to life, but I know it has happened because The Bible tells me it has. However, those who become Christians do so by identifying with Jesus and his death and RESURRECTION. The following passage from the book of Romans tells about this process.

Rom 6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
Rom 6:2 May it never be! We who died to sin, how could we live in it any longer?
Rom 6:3 Or don't you know that all we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?
Rom 6:4 We were buried therefore with him through baptism to death, that just like Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.
Rom 6:5 For if we have become united with him in the likeness of his death, we will also be part of his resurrection;
Rom 6:6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with him, that the body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be in bondage to sin.
Rom 6:7 For he who has died has been freed from sin.
Rom 6:8 But if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him;
Rom 6:9 knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no more has dominion over him!
Rom 6:10 For the death that he died, he died to sin one time; but the life that he lives, he lives to God.
Rom 6:11 Thus consider yourselves also to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

World English Bible

Death and taxes; these two things are certain! Just as certain is the fact that Jesus was raised from death. The documentation of his resurrection is incontrovertible. Facts are facts and because this IS true, we who have identified ourselves with him will not stay dead forever. So much for death, now, I wonder what we can do about the tax problem? Does anyone out there have President Obama's cell phone number?

Now that is something to brag about!

Ha, Ha! Maybe he should have looked a little closer at that box! On another level, this cartoon does say something about human nature. Human beings tend to boast about their activities far more than they have any right to do. What do we really accomplish in this world, anyway? If we are blessed with a job, most of us do the same sort of thing day in and day out. If God blesses us with enough money, we pay our bills, raise our kids and have a little left over for "someday". When was the last time you remember doing something REALLY worth boasting about; something that will last one hundred years or more? However, each of us has an opportunity to do something that will last a thousand years or more. Read this passage from 1st Corinthians and I think you will see what I mean.

1Co 1:18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are dying, but to us who are saved it is the power of God.
1Co 1:19 For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, I will bring the discernment of the discerning to nothing."
1Co 1:20 Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the lawyer of this world? Hasn't God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
1Co 1:21 For seeing that in the wisdom of God, the world through its wisdom didn't know God, it was God's good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save those who believe.
1Co 1:22 For Jews ask for signs, Greeks seek after wisdom,
1Co 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified; a stumbling block to Jews, and foolishness to Greeks,
1Co 1:24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1Co 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1Co 1:26 For you see your calling, brothers, that not many are wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, and not many noble;
1Co 1:27 but God chose the foolish things of the world that he might put to shame those who are wise. God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put to shame the things that are strong;
1Co 1:28 and God chose the lowly things of the world, and the things that are despised, and the things that are not, that he might bring to nothing the things that are:
1Co 1:29 that no flesh should boast before God.
1Co 1:30 But of him, you are in Christ Jesus, who was made to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption:
1Co 1:31 that, according as it is written, "He who boasts, let him boast in the Lord."

World English Version

Once we realize how foolish our temporal accomplishments are, we can begin to take a wider perspective of our life. This begins by putting God at the center of everything; changing our focus from something WE DID, to what God can do THROUGH US. Pride can be a terrible thing, but when God's will is prioritized in our lives, HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS make all the difference. Think back, the last time you boasted about something, was it something that you did, or that God did THROUGH YOU? This question makes me a little nervous, does it do the same for you? Well, there is a sure cure for this problem and that begins with doing something "foolish"; boast about what God has done for you. His Gospel and HIS SACRIFICE will last a thousand times a thousand years and more. Now that is something to brag about!

Can you pass the test?

Not everyone can read this; only about half the population. I don't know why, but that's the way it is. Humm, should the ones who can gloat over it and put down those who can't understand it? No, a thousand times, NO! So what if you can or can't read it, there are probably things that you can do that no one else can. Read this passage from the book of Ephesians and I think you will come away with a positive self image.

Eph 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to walk worthily of the calling with which you were called,
Eph 4:2 with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love;
Eph 4:3 being eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Eph 4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you also were called in one hope of your calling;
Eph 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
Eph 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in us all.
Eph 4:7 But to each one of us was the grace given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
Eph 4:8 Therefore he says, "When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men."
Eph 4:9 Now this, "He ascended," what is it but that he also first descended into the lower parts of the earth?
Eph 4:10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.
Eph 4:11 He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, shepherds and teachers;
Eph 4:12 for the perfecting of the saints, to the work of serving, to the building up of the body of Christ;
Eph 4:13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a full grown man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
Eph 4:14 that we may no longer be children, tossed back and forth and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in craftiness, after the wiles of error;
Eph 4:15 but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, Christ;
Eph 4:16 from whom all the body, being fitted and knit together through that which every joint supplies, according to the working in measure of each individual part, makes the body increase to the building up of itself in love.

World English Bible

Everyone is different and that is a very good thing! Its good for both our country and the church in general. Be happy God made you the way you are and do the best you can. And don't forget the last part of the last verse from Ephesians, we should love. If I pass the test of love, then you can understand me, no matter how crazy I seem to write. Beielve me, I rlleay am not czray at all...... rghit!

Help

Simple little prayer, isn't it? Sometimes simple IS BEST! When I saw this one after I came home from work, I had to put it on the blog because it really says something. I have a good friend whose spouse is dying, so prayer has been on my mind a lot today. What do you say to someone who is about to go this ordeal? You do what I did; that is, to offer to help by being there. One more thing, you have to really mean it! After that, prayer is in order, but what to do you pray for? Healing, hope, calm or any one of the many things you could pray for. As I drove home tonight I couldn't help but remember the greatest prayer I have ever heard. A dear friend of mine was having trouble in school and when we gathered together in chapel he took his turn at the podium to pray. He just stood there for the longest time until finally began to shake because the emotion within him. Finally, the tears began to flow and after he calmed himself a bit, he uttered this simple prayer...."help". His prayer reflected his close relationship with God and its simple plea stunned everyone there. Consider this short passage from the book of 1st Thessalonians.

1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

If we are close to God, we may not always know exactly what to say, but God knows what we mean to say. So, to all my Internet friends out there, I pray the prayer in the picture. To that special friend whose need is so great, I say that I will pray for "help", because God knows what you really need.

Additives, preservatives and sugar, oh my!

The caption said "Red neck wedding cake" but if you like it... enjoy. Actually, I think I have had everything on this "cake" and if you don't think too hard about all the additives, preservatives and sugar, well its not too bad. Now, don't get me wrong, this is NOT DIET FOOD! I love to eat, but these things aren't normally on my list. I can say without a doubt that they are NOT ON MY WIFE'S LIST. However, this does bring up an interesting topic, which the Bible does discuss in the book of Romans.

Rom 14:1 Now accept one who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions.
Rom 14:2 One man has faith to eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables.
Rom 14:3 Don't let him who eats despise him who doesn't eat. Don't let him who doesn't eat judge him who eats, for God has accepted him.
Rom 14:4 Who are you who judge another's servant? To his own lord he stands or falls. Yes, he will be made to stand, for God has power to make him stand.
Rom 14:5 One man esteems one day as more important. Another esteems every day alike. Let each man be fully assured in his own mind.
Rom 14:6 He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks. He who doesn't eat, to the Lord he doesn't eat, and gives God thanks.
Rom 14:7 For none of us lives to himself, and none dies to himself.
Rom 14:8 For if we live, we live to the Lord. Or if we die, we die to the Lord. If therefore we live or die, we are the Lord's.
Rom 14:9 For to this end Christ died, rose, and lived again, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.
Rom 14:10 But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
Rom 14:11 For it is written, " 'As I live,' says the Lord, 'to me every knee will bow. Every tongue will confess to God.' "
Rom 14:12 So then each one of us will give account of himself to God.
Rom 14:13 Therefore let's not judge one another any more, but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block in his brother's way, or an occasion for falling.
Rom 14:14 I know, and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean of itself; except that to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
Rom 14:15 Yet if because of food your brother is grieved, you walk no longer in love. Don't destroy with your food him for whom Christ died.

World English Bible

In ancient times food was offered to the "Gods" and later sold in the meat market. So, some early Christians wouldn't eat meat because it MIGHT have been an offering. Likewise, many first century believers had been Jewish and still wanted to observe Jewish holy days. Where do we draw the line; what do we do? Give people the benefit of the doubt and some latitude. Does this mean anything goes and we can do ANYTHING WE WANT? No, for I believe we should use the New Testament as our standard and if we go beyond that we are on shaky ground indeed. The bottom line is that I don't answer for you; all I really can do is to encourage you to think about how you apply the New Testament teachings in your walk with God. I have to give an account for what I do and hope some of what I say might make sense to you as it does to me. This is a very good starting point and who knows, you and I might actually agree on many, many things and grow to accept more about each other. Please don't ask me to eat a twinky though, my doctor would have a fit.

In God we still trust!

I don't like country music, but this video had a message I could not resist. This land has seen a lot of change since it became The United States of America, but there still are many people in it that who will say "AMEN" to its message of "In God we trust". Sometimes I look at the news and wonder what will become of us, but when I see something like this I know that despite all our many problems there still is HOPE for our nation. I remember being quite down a few years ago, and a Lauren Linder shared this Bible verse with me and I have remembered it. I hope you will think of it ever so often as I do.

Psa 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust the name of Yahweh our God.

Do whatever you can, for as long as you can to keep the American dream alive. Don't let anyone take it away from you, especially our elected officials; they are supposed to be our servants. Begin and end your day with a prayer for our country, its worth it!

Thank you Sharon Whitman for sending me this video; I needed it!

The right direction?

Everything was black; I couldn't see a thing, but I could hear voices. What I heard was unsettling; we are losing him, go faster!! Then I began to see a fog like light in the far distance and finally the fog became a bright light, then all was black again. I found out later that my heart had stopped, but the paramedics had brought me back. It was 1974; a full decade before I even heard of out of body experiences, but I am telling you the truth; this really did happen to me. However, it did make me think and caused me to study the Scriptures and really examine the Christian faith. People will believe what they will, but as for me, I know what I saw and only I know the changes the God of Heaven has worked within me. Think about this passage from the book of 1st Corinthians and see what I mean.

1Co 15:1 Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand,
1Co 15:2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you--unless you believed in vain.
1Co 15:3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures,
1Co 15:4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,
1Co 15:5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.
1Co 15:6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep.
1Co 15:7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.
1Co 15:8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
1Co 15:9 For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
1Co 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.
1Co 15:11 Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
1Co 15:12 Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?
1Co 15:13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.
1Co 15:14 And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.
1Co 15:15 We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised.
1Co 15:16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised.
1Co 15:17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.
1Co 15:18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.
1Co 15:19 If in this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.
1Co 15:20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
1Co 15:21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead.
1Co 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.
1Co 15:23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.

English Standard Version

How many people would it take to convince you? How close would you have to come to death before you would even begin to believe? I had to come very close because I was taught that religion was bunk, stuff only soft hearted fools believed in. Well, everybody is different and only you can convince you, but one thing is for certain; we all will die. When that time comes, I hope you are going in my direction because I would like to be with friends, forever!

What will you do?

Ever felt like this? You are in the spotlight and everyone is watching; your next move is probably the most important one you will ever make and now its up to you. What will you do? The answer is ... what you MUST do. The Bible tells the story of just such a situation in the book of John.

Joh 19:13 So when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Stone Pavement, and in Aramaic Gabbatha.
Joh 19:14 Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, "Behold your King!"
Joh 19:15 They cried out, "Away with him, away with him, crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your King?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar."
Joh 19:16 So he delivered him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus,
Joh 19:17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha.
Joh 19:18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them.
Joh 19:19 Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."
Joh 19:20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek.
Joh 19:21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Do not write, 'The King of the Jews,' but rather, 'This man said, I am King of the Jews.'"
Joh 19:22 Pilate answered, "What I have written I have written."
Joh 19:23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom,
Joh 19:24 so they said to one another, "Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be." This was to fulfill the Scripture which says, "They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots." So the soldiers did these things,
Joh 19:25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
Joh 19:26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son!"
Joh 19:27 Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother!" And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
Joh 19:28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), "I thirst."
Joh 19:29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth.
Joh 19:30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

English Standard Version

Jesus had performed many miracles and coming down from the cross would have been just another. However, that was not the plan. A sacrifice had to be made and Jesus did what he had to do because he really was exactly who he said he was. Neither your or I could have done it, only Jesus. The spotlight was on him and he made the correct choice. The question is... when you are confronted with the realization of what he did for you.... What will you do?

Spring

Spring is on its way; now those are words I like to hear! Winter can be a tough time in the Northeast and spring means relief. Relief from bone chilling cold, from ice, dreary days and cabin fever! I wonder, what makes is so wonderful? Even spring can have its rainy days, windy storms and flooding. More than the mere relief from winter, spring means LIFE! It is a celebration of beginnings, new flowers, crops and of course it is a time for births! If you ask most parents to be whether they want a boy or a girl they will often answer: "I don't care what it is as long as it is healthy". But what if they have a child that is NOT HEALTHY, WHAT THEN? What good can come of bringing a child with a "problem" into this world? Read this passage from the book of John and find out.

Joh 9:1 As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth.
Joh 9:2 And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
Joh 9:3 Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.
Joh 9:4 We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.
Joh 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
Joh 9:6 Having said these things, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva. Then he anointed the man's eyes with the mud
Joh 9:7 and said to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing.
Joh 9:8 The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar were saying, "Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?"
Joh 9:9 Some said, "It is he." Others said, "No, but he is like him." He kept saying, "I am the man."
Joh 9:10 So they said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?"
Joh 9:11 He answered, "The man called Jesus made mud and anointed my eyes and said to me, 'Go to Siloam and wash.' So I went and washed and received my sight."
Joh 9:12 They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know."
Joh 9:13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind.
Joh 9:14 Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes.
Joh 9:15 So the Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and I see."
Joh 9:16 Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?" And there was a division among them.
Joh 9:17 So they said again to the blind man, "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet."
Joh 9:18 The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight
Joh 9:19 and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?"
Joh 9:20 His parents answered, "We know that this is our son and that he was born blind.
Joh 9:21 But how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself."
Joh 9:22 (His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess Jesus to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue.)
Joh 9:23 Therefore his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."
Joh 9:24 So for the second time they called the man who had been blind and said to him, "Give glory to God. We know that this man is a sinner."
Joh 9:25 He answered, "Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see."
Joh 9:26 They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"
Joh 9:27 He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?"

ESV

There you have it; even a child with "problems" can be valuable, in fact he was invaluable. His condition could not be explained away; his unique testimony showed the power of God, which is why he was born with his "problem". Each and every one of us has a problem, whether we like to think about it or not: sin. Only Jesus is the answer and he is THE ONLY WAY to life the way was meant to be. With him we have life, without him we have something less. So, in this season of beginnings, let us take some time to reflect on the beautiful emerging spring around us and spring into action for the God who brings both life and light to our hearts.

An ordinary place

This picture is unusual because it isn't. No, this isn't double talk. Most of the time I select pictures for the blog that are unusual and mean something to me, but in this instance I deliberately chose something that was ordinary to prove a point to myself. Most of our lives are spent doing ordinary down-to-earth every day things. We take a lot of things in that "ordinary" life for granted; working, commuting, buying gas, having meals, etc.. Then something happens and a typical ordinary day changes into something very memorable. This was the case in the life of one man as told in the book of Acts.

Act 8:26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, Rise up and go along south on the highway going down to Jerusalem to Gaza. This is a deserted place.
Act 8:27 And rising up he went. And, behold, an Ethiopian man, a eunuch, a potentate with Candace, the queen of the Ethiopians, who was over all her treasure, who had come to Jerusalem to worship!
Act 8:28 And he was returning. And sitting on his chariot he read the prophet Isaiah.
Act 8:29 And the Spirit said to Philip, Go near and join yourself to this chariot.
Act 8:30 And running near Philip heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, Indeed, do you know what you are reading?
Act 8:31 But he said, How should I be able except someone shall guide me? And he called Philip near, to come up to sit with him.
Act 8:32 And the content of the Scripture which he was reading was this: "He was led as a sheep to slaughter, and as a lamb voiceless before the one shearing it, so He does not open His mouth.
Act 8:33 In His humiliation His judgment was taken away. And who will recount His generation? For His life is taken away from the earth." Isa. 53:7, 8
Act 8:34 And answering the eunuch said to Philip, I ask you, about whom does the prophet say this? About himself, or about some other one?
Act 8:35 And opening his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture, Philip announced the gospel to him, Jesus.
Act 8:36 And as they were going along the highway they came on some water. And the eunuch said, Behold, water! What prevents me to be baptized?
Act 8:37 And Philip said, If you believe from all the heart, it is lawful. And answering he said, I believe Jesus Christ to be the Son of God.
Act 8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
Act 8:39 But when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip. And the eunuch did not see him any more; for he went his way rejoicing.

LITV

Philip went to a deserted place because an angel told him to and he met the Ethiopian eunuch of Candace. There he told the eunuch about Jesus, he was baptized and went on his way. There you are, an ordinary day in an ordinary place, but something wonderful happened. Life is full of things like this, you don't look for them, they just seem to happen. Well, maybe yes and maybe no. I am of the disposition that God has something in store for each and every one of us, so be on the lookout, something wonderful may yet come your way this very day. An angel of the Lord may or may not be involved, but who knows what is next?

No way out

Dante's gate to hell is terrifying sight. I have never thought about Hell much, except that I don't want to go there. However, someone I used to work with confessed that in a drug-induced state he had visited there. What struck him most was the sense of ever-present dread at the overpowering hatred all around him... and the searing, scorching heat!!! There were beings (I assume the cast down angels) with rather large fangs and hands that ended in razor sharp nails. However, their most prominent feature was their crimson eyes that glowed with intimidating hatred. This vision scared him so much that he actually stopped his wicked lifestyle for a few days. However, even this experience wasn't enough to stop him for long and I am sorry to say his old ways returned and even became worse. The Bible refers to Hell in several places and this one is told by Jesus himself in the book of Luke.

Luk 16:19 And there was a certain rich man; and he was accustomed to don a purple robe and fine linen, making merry in luxury day by day.
Luk 16:20 And there was a certain poor one named Lazarus who had been laid at his doorway, having been ulcerated,
Luk 16:21 and longing to be filled from the crumbs that were falling from the table of the rich one. But coming, even the dogs licked his sores.
Luk 16:22 And it happened, the poor one died and was carried away by the angels into the bosom of Abraham. And the rich one also died and was buried.
Luk 16:23 And being in torments in hell, lifting up his eyes, he sees Abraham afar off and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luk 16:24 And calling he said, Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering in this flame.
Luk 16:25 But Abraham said, Child, remember that you fully received your good things in your lifetime, and Lazarus likewise the bad things. But now he is comforted, and you are suffering.
Luk 16:26 And besides all these things, a great chasm has been fixed between us and you, so that those desiring to pass from here to you are not able, nor can they pass from there to us.

LITV

No way out, none at all! Hell is a place you really don't return from. It is something to be very, very afraid of. Yet how many untold myriads of those who refuse to follow God will be there! This isn't just a one time experience like my co-worked had--- its forever! Final judgment and that's that. It doesn't have to happen though, people have the gift of free will and the opportunity to change as long as there is life. So, listen, already! Turn to God for help, before its too late, and the hope of heaven turns into the despair of the utterly condemned sufferer.

How does that butterfly fly?

One of the surprises I have had while writing this blog is the the abundance of beauty out there. It seems that every time review the pictures I have collected from the net I see something that makes me raise my eyebrows. Who would have thought of a see-through creature that was NOT several hundred feet below the ocean? But, here it is, and it is amazing! Sometimes you just have to see something to believe it is possible! There is an instance like this in the book of John; read on to see what I mean.

Joh 20:16 Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to him, "Rhabbouni!" which is to say, "Teacher!"
Joh 20:17 Jesus said to her, "Don't touch me, for I haven't yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brothers, and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
Joh 20:18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had said these things to her.
Joh 20:19 When therefore it was evening, on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were locked where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, "Peace be to you."
Joh 20:20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples therefore were glad when they saw the Lord.
Joh 20:21 Jesus therefore said to them again, "Peace be to you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you."
Joh 20:22 When he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit!
Joh 20:23 Whoever's sins you forgive, they are forgiven them. Whoever's sins you retain, they have been retained."
Joh 20:24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, wasn't with them when Jesus came.
Joh 20:25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe."
Joh 20:26 After eight days again his disciples were inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors being locked, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace be to you."
Joh 20:27 Then he said to Thomas, "Reach here your finger, and see my hands. Reach here your hand, and put it into my side. Don't be unbelieving, but believing."
Joh 20:28 Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"
Joh 20:29 Jesus said to him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed."

World English Bible

Thomas had a difficult time believing; why? I am not sure anyone will every really know, but I can understand the concept of doubt. There are things that happen as we go through life that trick us, make us skeptical. If anyone has ever played a trick on you, I think you will understand not EVER wanting to feel stupid again. Realistically, someone being raised again to life after being dead IS A HARD THING TO BELIEVE! However, hundreds of people saw Jesus after the resurrection and that should be enough testimony for anyone to accept today. Being able to see through doubt is a great blessing and doing that without seeing the physical proof is a wonderful thing indeed. Sometimes you just have to accept the fact that there are things out there you will never understand and just go on from there. Like, for instance, how does that butterfly fly even though you can see through it? Humm! I don't know, but I do like the flower behind it!

Hero

This is a picture of Nancy and Ted Rose. They stood up for Linda and I when we were married. They were an average couple;Nancy was a homemaker and Ted drove truck. One thing though, Ted loved motorcycles. He even raced in the winter on frozen Lake George N.Y.. I am told this beautiful bike was later gold-plated, which made it worth a great deal of money. But most of all I remember Ted because to me he was a hero; someone who defended me when I was too little to do it myself. Hero's are a hard commodity to come by today, but there are quite a few in the Bible; one of my favorites is found it the book of First Samuel:

1Sa 17:33 Saul said to David, You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.
1Sa 17:34 David said to Saul, Your servant was keeping his father's sheep; and when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock,
1Sa 17:35 I went out after him, and struck him, and delivered it out of his mouth; and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and struck him, and killed him.
1Sa 17:36 Your servant struck both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.
1Sa 17:37 David said, Yahweh who delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. Saul said to David, Go, and Yahweh shall be with you.
1Sa 17:38 Saul clad David with his clothing, and he put a helmet of brass on his head, and he clad him with a coat of mail.
1Sa 17:39 David girded his sword on his clothing, and he tried to go; for he had not proved it. David said to Saul, I can't go with these; for I have not proved them. David put them off him.
1Sa 17:40 He took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, even in his wallet; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.
1Sa 17:41 The Philistine came on and drew near to David; and the man who bore the shield went before him.
1Sa 17:42 When the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him; for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and withal of a fair face.
1Sa 17:43 The Philistine said to David, Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks? The Philistine cursed David by his gods.
1Sa 17:44 The Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the sky, and to the animals of the field.
1Sa 17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a javelin: but I come to you in the name of Yahweh of Armies, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
1Sa 17:46 This day Yahweh will deliver you into my hand; and I will strike you, and take your head from off you; and I will give the dead bodies of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the sky, and to the wild animals of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
1Sa 17:47 and that all this assembly may know that Yahweh doesn't save with sword and spear: for the battle is Yahweh's, and he will give you into our hand.
1Sa 17:48 It happened, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.
1Sa 17:49 David put his hand in his bag, and took there a stone, and slang it, and struck the Philistine in his forehead; and the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth.
1Sa 17:50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine, and killed him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.
1Sa 17:51 Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of its sheath, and killed him, and cut off his head therewith. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.

World English Bible

David showed great courage as well as great confidence in God. He was a genuine hero! His actions caused Israel to prevail over the Philistines. When I think of David its always as a man of war and not as The King of Israel who reigned forty years, so I envision him fighting and not ruling or even relaxing. But I can't help but wonder though, if perhaps he had a gold plated chariot at the back of the palace for weekend races?

Possibility

This beautiful picture is one of my favorites. I like it because it says "possibility" to me. If you look closely, the sun is burning away the fog and transforming remnants of night into a new day. With that new day is the possibility of a better life. There is hope, there can be success, happiness and a bright future ahead. No, I am not an eternal optimist, but sometimes events at the beginning of a day give you insight into what can happen in the near future. The following series of events as told by Luke make me feel the same as the picture because in them is the possibility of something better for us all.




Luk 2:1 Now it happened in those days, that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled.
Luk 2:2 This was the first enrollment made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
Luk 2:3 All went to enroll themselves, everyone to his own city.
Luk 2:4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David;
Luk 2:5 to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.
Luk 2:6 It happened, while they were there, that the day had come that she should give birth.
Luk 2:7 She brought forth her firstborn son, and she wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luk 2:8 There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.
Luk 2:9 Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
Luk 2:10 The angel said to them, "Don't be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.
Luk 2:11 For there is born to you, this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luk 2:12 This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough."
Luk 2:13 Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God, and saying,
Luk 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luk 2:15 It happened, when the angels went away from them into the sky, that the shepherds said one to another, "Let's go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us."
Luk 2:16 They came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.
Luk 2:17 When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.
Luk 2:18 All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.
Luk 2:19 But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.
Luk 2:20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.
Luk 2:21 When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Luk 2:22 When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord
Luk 2:23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord"),
Luk 2:24 and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, "A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons."
Luk 2:25 Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
Luk 2:26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
Luk 2:27 He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,
Luk 2:28 then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,
Luk 2:29 "Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;
Luk 2:30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,
Luk 2:31 which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;
Luk 2:32 a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel."
Luk 2:33 Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him,
Luk 2:34 and Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against.
Luk 2:35 Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." World English Bible


Jesus is born. A simple statement with gigantic implications. Put yourself in Mary's shoes. An angel tells her she is going to have Jesus, the shepherds come to her, telling her (and everyone else around) of the supernatural announcement and then Simeon makes his revelation. This is a lot for this young girl to take in. But, I wonder, what was she thinking? Beyond the normal excitement of having a new child, she must have looked at Joseph and marveled at what the future might hold for her newborn. Yes, for her the world was changing and not just for her, but for us all. A new son had arisen greater than the sun in the sky could ever be and the days of his life meant the possibility of new life for us all. Now, that is one very optimistic sunrise indeed!

Be careful what you ask for!

You asked for it and you got it...Tabasco. A little is OK, but too much and Wow, you look something like the child in this picture. But, that's the way we do things; nothing is ever enough. The old testament is filled with stories of the hard-heartedness of God's chosen people and this episode from the book of numbers is just one of them.


Num 11:4 The mixed multitude that was among them lusted exceedingly: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, "Who will give us flesh to eat?
Num 11:5 We remember the fish, which we ate in Egypt for nothing; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic;
Num 11:6 but now we have lost our appetite. There is nothing at all except this manna to look at."
Num 11:7 The manna was like coriander seed, and its appearance like the appearance of bdellium.
Num 11:8 The people went around, gathered it, and ground it in mills, or beat it in mortars, and boiled it in pots, and made cakes of it. Its taste was like the taste of fresh oil.
Num 11:9 When the dew fell on the camp in the night, the manna fell on it.
Num 11:10 Moses heard the people weeping throughout their families, every man at the door of his tent; and the anger of Yahweh was kindled greatly; and Moses was displeased.
Num 11:11 Moses said to Yahweh, "Why have you treated with your servant so badly? Why haven't I found favor in your sight, that you lay the burden of all this people on me?
Num 11:12 Have I conceived all this people? Have I brought them forth, that you should tell me, 'Carry them in your bosom, as a nurse carries a nursing infant, to the land which you swore to their fathers?'
Num 11:13 Where could I get meat to give to all this people? For they weep to me, saying, 'Give us meat, that we may eat.'
Num 11:14 I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me.
Num 11:15 If you treat me this way, please kill me right now, if I have found favor in your sight; and don't let me see my wretchedness."
Num 11:16 Yahweh said to Moses, "Gather to me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them to the Tent of Meeting, that they may stand there with you.
Num 11:17 I will come down and talk with you there. I will take of the Spirit which is on you, and will put it on them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, that you not bear it yourself alone.
Num 11:18 Say to the people, 'Sanctify yourselves against tomorrow, and you will eat flesh; for you have wept in the ears of Yahweh, saying, "Who will give us flesh to eat? For it was well with us in Egypt." Therefore Yahweh will give you flesh, and you will eat.
Num 11:19 You will not eat one day, nor two days, nor five days, neither ten days, nor twenty days,
Num 11:20 but a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it is loathsome to you; because that you have rejected Yahweh who is among you, and have wept before him, saying, "Why did we come out of Egypt?" ' "
Num 11:21 Moses said, "The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand men on foot; and you have said, 'I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.'
Num 11:22 Shall flocks and herds be slaughtered for them, to be sufficient for them? Shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to be sufficient for them?"
Num 11:23 Yahweh said to Moses, "Has Yahweh's hand grown short? Now you will see whether my word will happen to you or not."
Num 11:24 Moses went out, and told the people the words of Yahweh; and he gathered seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them around the Tent.
Num 11:25 Yahweh came down in the cloud, and spoke to him, and took of the Spirit that was on him, and put it on the seventy elders: and it happened that when the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied, but they did so no more.
Num 11:26 But two men remained in the camp. The name of one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested on them; and they were of those who were written, but had not gone out to the Tent; and they prophesied in the camp.
Num 11:27 A young man ran, and told Moses, and said, "Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp!"
Num 11:28 Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his chosen men, answered, "My lord Moses, forbid them!"
Num 11:29 Moses said to him, "Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all Yahweh's people were prophets, that Yahweh would put his Spirit on them!"
Num 11:30 Moses went into the camp, he and the elders of Israel.
Num 11:31 A wind from Yahweh went out and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, about a day's journey on this side, and a day's journey on the other side, around the camp, and about two cubits above the surface of the earth.
Num 11:32 The people rose up all that day, and all the night, and all the next day, and gathered the quails. He who gathered least gathered ten homers; and they spread them all abroad for themselves around the camp.
Num 11:33 While the flesh was yet between their teeth, before it was chewed, the anger of Yahweh was kindled against the people, and Yahweh struck the people with a very great plague.
Num 11:34 The name of that place was called Kibroth Hattaavah, because there they buried the people who lusted.

World English Bible


Everyone was complaining, even Moses; so what did God do? He gave them a blessing from heaven, an abundance which was overflowing in its bounty. Yet, along with the blessing came a plague, because Yahweh was angry. So, the next time you complain about something, remember this story and be careful what you ask for; you just might get it and then some.