I've been cramming this week, writing a thesis on the origin of sin. While I have no intention of going into details here on the blog, I did want to put something out there to think about.
We don't know when sin originally started. We do know WHERE sin originally started.
It started in the heart of Lucifer. Remember the prophet said, Isaiah 14:12-13 (KJV)
12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!
13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:
My thought for the moment is that the original sin was not an action. We do not read about Lucifer smoking or doing drugs or anything like that. His sin was in his heart. It was in his heart that he took the LORD of Glory off of the throne of his heart and put himself in place.
Usually when we think of sin, we think about an immoral or otherwise ungodly action.
Ungodly actions are the result of sin. The sin is not exalting the Lord and keeping HIM as the supreme ruler in your life!
You could even say it like this, actions follow inaction. The man lies, because the Lord is not ruling his life. The woman cheats, because the Lord is not ruling her life. They kill because the Lord is not ruling in their lives.
There are a great many good people who pride themselves by not stealing, lying or committing some other spiritually egregious act. Yet while they pride themselves for their lack of bad behaviour, they fail to realize that it's what they are NOT doing that makes them a sinner.
They rule their lives, not the LORD.
They sit on the throne of their lives, not the LORD.
In reality, they do exactly what Lucifer did.
That's scary!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas !!!
Mery CHRISTmas!!! or, Happy Birthday Jesus!
What if YOU had a birthday party where people exchanged gifts with one another, yet they did not give a gift to YOU, on YOUR birthday????
I wonder if that is how Jesus feels each Christmas???
What a wonderful time to be with family and friends! Eating and resting and enjoying one anothers fellowship.
This morning found a few of us discussing our wonderful saviour over a delicious cup of coffee. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Prince of Peace, the Everlasting Father. Truly HE is all of these and so much more!
I'm not really wanting to preach this morning, but my heart is full of thanksgiving and praise this morning for my Lord!
As we exchange gifts of love one to another, let us ever remember to give HIM the best gift of all. Control of our lives.
Whoever you are, where ever you are, remember on this beautiful day that you are loved!
Merry Christmas
Michael & Nancy Flowers
What if YOU had a birthday party where people exchanged gifts with one another, yet they did not give a gift to YOU, on YOUR birthday????
I wonder if that is how Jesus feels each Christmas???
What a wonderful time to be with family and friends! Eating and resting and enjoying one anothers fellowship.
This morning found a few of us discussing our wonderful saviour over a delicious cup of coffee. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Prince of Peace, the Everlasting Father. Truly HE is all of these and so much more!
I'm not really wanting to preach this morning, but my heart is full of thanksgiving and praise this morning for my Lord!
As we exchange gifts of love one to another, let us ever remember to give HIM the best gift of all. Control of our lives.
Whoever you are, where ever you are, remember on this beautiful day that you are loved!
Merry Christmas
Michael & Nancy Flowers
Sunday, December 23, 2007
A Just man or just a man?
As usual this time of year, I read the story of the birth of my saviour over and over again. I personally enjoy comparing the stories written in the different gospels and getting a better grasp on the whole picture.
Last Wednesday night I preached about the Cast of Christmas characters. When we reached Joseph, there was such an incompleteness in my spirit that I have felt compelled to visit him again this morning. I am especially intrigued by Matthews description: Matthew 1:18-21
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
KJV
Joseph was described as a "just man." I'm not sure that the term really synchronizes of what we think of as justice.
If I had been Joseph, my thoughts would have been filled with rage. Hurt, anger and other horrible human emotions would have stopped any "mercy" immediately. I would have been concentrating on how to "get even". Joseph was different. Here was a man who thought he had been done very wrong by his sweetheart--and yet his thoughts were focused on how he could deal with this in a way that brought as little shame to the one who had wronged him as possible.
This bespeaks a very tender and forgiving nature, and a willingness to take the high road of mercy.
We get ourselves ready to enter a New Year. One of the things most of us pray for is renewed vision and spiritual revival. Maybe we need a dose of Mercy. Joseph had 2 supernatural visitations. Both of them came as he was contemplating mercy, wondering how he could shield Mary from what he couldn't help but believe was the consequences of sin.
This I do not believe to be a coincidence.
If you want the visitation of the miraculous, fill your mind and focus your thoughts on His mercies, which are new every morning...and also upon what opportunities might come for you to show mercy.
The old prophet Micah heard from God regarding what the Lord required of him, namely to do justly, love mercy,and walk humbly with God.
Everybody loves mercy when they are in a position to need it. That doesn't really mean you love mercy; it just means you love yourself.
The acid test for whether or not you truly love mercy comes when you find yourself in the position of deciding whether or not to grant it when you have the upper hand and someone else needs mercy.
Are you a Just man (woman)? Or "just a man" (or woman)?
Last Wednesday night I preached about the Cast of Christmas characters. When we reached Joseph, there was such an incompleteness in my spirit that I have felt compelled to visit him again this morning. I am especially intrigued by Matthews description: Matthew 1:18-21
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
KJV
Joseph was described as a "just man." I'm not sure that the term really synchronizes of what we think of as justice.
If I had been Joseph, my thoughts would have been filled with rage. Hurt, anger and other horrible human emotions would have stopped any "mercy" immediately. I would have been concentrating on how to "get even". Joseph was different. Here was a man who thought he had been done very wrong by his sweetheart--and yet his thoughts were focused on how he could deal with this in a way that brought as little shame to the one who had wronged him as possible.
This bespeaks a very tender and forgiving nature, and a willingness to take the high road of mercy.
We get ourselves ready to enter a New Year. One of the things most of us pray for is renewed vision and spiritual revival. Maybe we need a dose of Mercy. Joseph had 2 supernatural visitations. Both of them came as he was contemplating mercy, wondering how he could shield Mary from what he couldn't help but believe was the consequences of sin.
This I do not believe to be a coincidence.
If you want the visitation of the miraculous, fill your mind and focus your thoughts on His mercies, which are new every morning...and also upon what opportunities might come for you to show mercy.
The old prophet Micah heard from God regarding what the Lord required of him, namely to do justly, love mercy,and walk humbly with God.
Everybody loves mercy when they are in a position to need it. That doesn't really mean you love mercy; it just means you love yourself.
The acid test for whether or not you truly love mercy comes when you find yourself in the position of deciding whether or not to grant it when you have the upper hand and someone else needs mercy.
Are you a Just man (woman)? Or "just a man" (or woman)?
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Update on Bethani Roam and livers in general
We need to continue to pray for Bethani Roam. If you are not aware she is a young preachers wife in Northern California who had liver failure and a miracle replacement. For her story and updates, check out this blog: http://bethaniroam.blogspot.com.
She is now suffering moderate rejection and is in constant pain and unable to eat.
Last night we received some saddening news. A few weeks ago a young man and his girlfriend came to church. They really got into the services and came to the altar. Alex received the Holy Ghost! A week or so later we baptized Alex in the name of Jesus! I was trying to get a Home bible study group set up with Alex, when he became very sick and quit coming to church. His liver completely failed and he passed away this past Sunday night. Thank God, he met Jesus just in time!
It goes to prove that every service is valuable! You never know when this service just might be the only opportunity for someone to receive salvation.
She is now suffering moderate rejection and is in constant pain and unable to eat.
Last night we received some saddening news. A few weeks ago a young man and his girlfriend came to church. They really got into the services and came to the altar. Alex received the Holy Ghost! A week or so later we baptized Alex in the name of Jesus! I was trying to get a Home bible study group set up with Alex, when he became very sick and quit coming to church. His liver completely failed and he passed away this past Sunday night. Thank God, he met Jesus just in time!
It goes to prove that every service is valuable! You never know when this service just might be the only opportunity for someone to receive salvation.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!
My throat was aching last night as the symptoms of the bad cold I have today began to set in. I stood beside the roaring fireplace at Sportsman's Lodge in Studio City and tried to get the attention of 50 or so people that I did not know. It was time to start a wedding rehearsal. "Ahem! Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!"
This morning has been wonderful! In spite of the bad cold I have felt a noticeable serenity around me. I have prayed without interruption. I have read the bible without interruption. I have even conducted a small amount of business without interruption. Then it dawned on me, "I forgot my cell phone at home this morning!"
I wonder if God ever feels like I felt last night, "Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!" "Please? I have something I want to share with you." "I have an answer for one of your many questions!" "I want to spend time with you!"
In the Ozark mountains of Missouri, there is a Buddhist monastery. The monks there allow people of different religions to come in and use the monastery for prayer and meditation. I have a friend who has taken a few journeys to this monastery to practice solitude. (Do we remember what that is?) Jay told a few of us about his experiences there. In that stone building, with no heating or air conditioning, with nothing electrical of any kind, you sit. Jay said that after about an hour of sitting the silence almost becomes deafening. As you continue to sit there you become acutely aware of how loud your own body is. Your stomach growls, your joints groan, your heart loudly pounds in your chest. He went on to say that as you acclimate to the silence and the noise of your body, you face the greatest noise of all. The noise in your head. The brain is that kid in class that always has to say something, no matter how ridiculous or in appropriate it is! Jay told us that the hardest battle is to get your mind to be quiet and wait upon God.
Isaiah 40:31 Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)
31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Most birds molt at least once a year. That is they lose their old feathers and get new ones. The old feathers have lost their freshness and their ability to lift the bird through the air. They become tattered and old. The bird is not able to soar quite as high as with fresh feathers. A new set of feathers is needed to reach the heights of yesterday.
It is said that most of the bird family quit molting after they reach their prime. As the bird ages it has to adjust to the reality that it will never do what it used to do. It doesn't have the fresh feathers that it used to have.
The exception to the rule is the eagle. Eagles continue to molt until they die. The heights of the heavens are never lost to them.
The prophet tell us that if we will wait upon the Lord, we will renew our strength. Our spirits need never get old. Our Holy Ghost needs never get old. Our vision never should get old. Like the eagle we will mount up, lift up on fresh wings.
We can continue to run, without becoming "...weary in well doing". We can walk on, without passing out!
Wait upon the Lord!
He's the one over there calling... "Ahem! Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!"
This morning has been wonderful! In spite of the bad cold I have felt a noticeable serenity around me. I have prayed without interruption. I have read the bible without interruption. I have even conducted a small amount of business without interruption. Then it dawned on me, "I forgot my cell phone at home this morning!"
I wonder if God ever feels like I felt last night, "Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!" "Please? I have something I want to share with you." "I have an answer for one of your many questions!" "I want to spend time with you!"
In the Ozark mountains of Missouri, there is a Buddhist monastery. The monks there allow people of different religions to come in and use the monastery for prayer and meditation. I have a friend who has taken a few journeys to this monastery to practice solitude. (Do we remember what that is?) Jay told a few of us about his experiences there. In that stone building, with no heating or air conditioning, with nothing electrical of any kind, you sit. Jay said that after about an hour of sitting the silence almost becomes deafening. As you continue to sit there you become acutely aware of how loud your own body is. Your stomach growls, your joints groan, your heart loudly pounds in your chest. He went on to say that as you acclimate to the silence and the noise of your body, you face the greatest noise of all. The noise in your head. The brain is that kid in class that always has to say something, no matter how ridiculous or in appropriate it is! Jay told us that the hardest battle is to get your mind to be quiet and wait upon God.
Isaiah 40:31 Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)
31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Most birds molt at least once a year. That is they lose their old feathers and get new ones. The old feathers have lost their freshness and their ability to lift the bird through the air. They become tattered and old. The bird is not able to soar quite as high as with fresh feathers. A new set of feathers is needed to reach the heights of yesterday.
It is said that most of the bird family quit molting after they reach their prime. As the bird ages it has to adjust to the reality that it will never do what it used to do. It doesn't have the fresh feathers that it used to have.
The exception to the rule is the eagle. Eagles continue to molt until they die. The heights of the heavens are never lost to them.
The prophet tell us that if we will wait upon the Lord, we will renew our strength. Our spirits need never get old. Our Holy Ghost needs never get old. Our vision never should get old. Like the eagle we will mount up, lift up on fresh wings.
We can continue to run, without becoming "...weary in well doing". We can walk on, without passing out!
Wait upon the Lord!
He's the one over there calling... "Ahem! Could I have your attention, PLEASE ?!"
Sunday, December 9, 2007
An Interesting tag line
I read an interesting tag line this week. I'm not sure who came up with it, but I like it.
"Talent will take you to places where anointing isn't permitted,
Anointing will take you places talented isn't needed!"
"Talent will take you to places where anointing isn't permitted,
Anointing will take you places talented isn't needed!"
In Debt
It's not a very spiritual thought, but I've been thinking about "debt" the past 2 days.
In it's simplest form, debt is caused by owing more than we can pay.
How many people are running around our stores and malls right now getting themselves even deeper into debt?
How many marriages will be pushed over the brink of no return because of newly acquired debt?
How much frustration will be poured out upon helpless children and other victims because of debt?
Even our national leaders seem to not be able to control debt. As a nation we are spending ourselves into oblivion. Dreams of european vacations and exotic ski trips are quickly becoming a thing from yesteryear. With our soaring national debt, the U.S. Dollar is pathetically weak. Have you noticed all the foreigners that are now coming to the U.S. for vacations? Not too long ago, it was U.S. citizens descending upon 3rd world countries as vacation paradises. Because of their weak currencies our dollar could go farther than it did here at home. Now it seems the tables are turned.
America needs God today!
Americans need God today!
The only good debt, is that debt that we will forever owe our Lord. He paid the price of our redemption. I owe Him daily, much more than I can ever repay!
In it's simplest form, debt is caused by owing more than we can pay.
How many people are running around our stores and malls right now getting themselves even deeper into debt?
How many marriages will be pushed over the brink of no return because of newly acquired debt?
How much frustration will be poured out upon helpless children and other victims because of debt?
Even our national leaders seem to not be able to control debt. As a nation we are spending ourselves into oblivion. Dreams of european vacations and exotic ski trips are quickly becoming a thing from yesteryear. With our soaring national debt, the U.S. Dollar is pathetically weak. Have you noticed all the foreigners that are now coming to the U.S. for vacations? Not too long ago, it was U.S. citizens descending upon 3rd world countries as vacation paradises. Because of their weak currencies our dollar could go farther than it did here at home. Now it seems the tables are turned.
America needs God today!
Americans need God today!
The only good debt, is that debt that we will forever owe our Lord. He paid the price of our redemption. I owe Him daily, much more than I can ever repay!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
I held HIM in my hands
Last night at service the preacher ( Dave Dibble - missionary to the Phillippines) preached an awesome message. He preached about Simeon. I don't know if he read my blog, but our minds were in the same vein.
Simeon, being led by the spirit to the temple on that famous day, knew in his spirit that this baby is different! As he went home that night, we wonder what was on Simeons mind. "In these hands, I just held the Redeemer!" "In these hands, I just held the El Shaddai" "In these hands, I just held the King of Kings!"
I will repost a picture that I took down about Simeon. I called the picture, "...Holding the object of your expectation!"
God never fails! He only knows how to be faithful to us!
Simeon, being led by the spirit to the temple on that famous day, knew in his spirit that this baby is different! As he went home that night, we wonder what was on Simeons mind. "In these hands, I just held the Redeemer!" "In these hands, I just held the El Shaddai" "In these hands, I just held the King of Kings!"
I will repost a picture that I took down about Simeon. I called the picture, "...Holding the object of your expectation!"
God never fails! He only knows how to be faithful to us!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Sunday Morning Thoughts
We have been working feverishly (doesn't look right, but I spell checked it!) on our garage this week so I have not posted as much as I've wanted to. The clean garage is kind of a christmas present to my bride from the rest of us.
I preached a bit on Cain's attitude this past Wednesday night. I'm not able to get him out of my mind and spirit yet and probably will go there for a thought or two today.
Cain wanted God's approval so badly. He put so much effort and hard work into his crop trying to please God. In the meantime, his brother Abel simply raised a lamb. Abel did not have to give birth to his sacrifice. He only had to take care of it and then at the right time present it to the Lord. Cain on the other hand, had to do everything.
When God had "respect" for Abel's offering, but not for Cain's, Cain lost it!
Mankind has from Adam and Eve, through Cain and until today tried to please God with the fruit and works of our own hands. God has already provided the WORK at Calvary. He simply wants us to OBEY.
I came across something that Thomas Jefferson once said that grabbed my attention, see if you like it.
"I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past. - Thomas Jefferson
I preached a bit on Cain's attitude this past Wednesday night. I'm not able to get him out of my mind and spirit yet and probably will go there for a thought or two today.
Cain wanted God's approval so badly. He put so much effort and hard work into his crop trying to please God. In the meantime, his brother Abel simply raised a lamb. Abel did not have to give birth to his sacrifice. He only had to take care of it and then at the right time present it to the Lord. Cain on the other hand, had to do everything.
When God had "respect" for Abel's offering, but not for Cain's, Cain lost it!
Mankind has from Adam and Eve, through Cain and until today tried to please God with the fruit and works of our own hands. God has already provided the WORK at Calvary. He simply wants us to OBEY.
I came across something that Thomas Jefferson once said that grabbed my attention, see if you like it.
"I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past. - Thomas Jefferson
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
More Simeons please!
I’ve been reading more of Luke’s version of the arrival of baby Jesus. Today my focus fell on Simeon who met Mary and Joseph as they brought their newborn into the temple.
Luke 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
This little blip is not placed in the scriptures just to take up page space. There is a lesson here.
We need more people like Simeon today.
· He was just or righteous before men. He acted right towards others.
· He was devout. He was dedicated to God. He was careful, serious about the things of God.
· He was looking for the consolation of Israel, for the coming Messiah.
· The Holy Spirit was upon Him, controlling his life.
Let’s follow this example.
· Let us be just, acting righteous in our dealings with others.
· Let us be devout, carefully committed to God.
· Let us be looking for the second coming of Christ.
Titus 2:13 - Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
· And let us seek the full control of the Holy Spirit upon our lives.
Verses 27-28 go on to inform us that Simeon was guided on the right day to the right place, to the right child by the Holy Spirit.
We should settle for nothing less than this for our lives – THE HOLY GHOST’S GUIDANCE IN ALL THINGS!
Simeon’s devotion to God leads him to a literal “Hands On” meeting with Jesus!
Verse 29 – Simeon was totally satisfied when He saw Jesus!
He was now ready to go “home” after what was undoubtedly a long life!
May we learn this kind of satisfaction, no matter how long our lives are, they are not complete until we’ve seen and held JESUS!
Luke 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
This little blip is not placed in the scriptures just to take up page space. There is a lesson here.
We need more people like Simeon today.
· He was just or righteous before men. He acted right towards others.
· He was devout. He was dedicated to God. He was careful, serious about the things of God.
· He was looking for the consolation of Israel, for the coming Messiah.
· The Holy Spirit was upon Him, controlling his life.
Let’s follow this example.
· Let us be just, acting righteous in our dealings with others.
· Let us be devout, carefully committed to God.
· Let us be looking for the second coming of Christ.
Titus 2:13 - Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
· And let us seek the full control of the Holy Spirit upon our lives.
Verses 27-28 go on to inform us that Simeon was guided on the right day to the right place, to the right child by the Holy Spirit.
We should settle for nothing less than this for our lives – THE HOLY GHOST’S GUIDANCE IN ALL THINGS!
Simeon’s devotion to God leads him to a literal “Hands On” meeting with Jesus!
Verse 29 – Simeon was totally satisfied when He saw Jesus!
He was now ready to go “home” after what was undoubtedly a long life!
May we learn this kind of satisfaction, no matter how long our lives are, they are not complete until we’ve seen and held JESUS!
Monday, November 26, 2007
I'm back!
Well to be honest, last week I tried my very best to avoid any and all semblance of work. It felt wonderful to relax mentally, physically as well as spiritually. We celebrated a wonderful thanksgiving day with my Father, Mother, Brother and his family, Sister and her family. Our celebration came complete with all the turkey, ham and other essentials that one could possibly consume.
Last night, my bride and I spent some time discussing our children. It seems a little strange to refer to a 23 year old and a 18 year old as children. This is without doubt the scariest part of our parenthood. How do you “parent” another adult? We still have a certain amount of influence in their lives, but increasingly they are making choices that we have little to zero input in.
I was reading in Matthew this morning for personal devotions. In chapter one Joseph is described as being a “righteous man”. Luke tells us the story as well and records the angel of the Lord saying, “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”
Wow, talk about intimidation! Jesus earthly father is called “righteous” and his mother is call “highly favoured”. I don’t feel like I fit in that classification, (my wife? Yes! Me? NO!)
It was in thinking on these things that I came across a few words regarding parenting that I’d like to share today.
I don’t know who wrote these word’s but they are impacting!
What a Parent Can and Can’t Do
I gave you life, but I cannot live it for you. I can teach you things but I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions but I cannot always be there to lead you. I can allow you freedom but I cannot account for it.
I can take you to church but I cannot make you believe. I can teach you right from wrong
but I can’t always decide for you.
I can buy you beautiful clothes
but I cannot make you lovely inside. I can offer you advice but I cannot accept it for you.
I can give you love but I cannot force it upon you. I can teach you to be a friend but I cannot make you one.
I can teach you to share but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect but I can’t force you to show honor.
I can grieve about your report card
but I cannot doubt your teachers. I can advise you about friends
but I cannot choose them for you.
I can teach you about sex but I cannot keep you pure. I can tell you the facts of life
but I can’t build your reputation.
I can tell you about drink but I can’t say NO for you. I can warn you about drugs but I can’t prevent you from using them.
I can tell you about lofty goals,
but I can’t achieve them for you. I can teach you kindness but I can’t force you to be gracious.
I can warn you about sins but I cannot make your morals I can love you as a daughter or son but I cannot place you in God’s Family.
I can pray for you but I cannot make you walk with God. I can teach you about Jesus
but I cannot make HIM your Saviour.
I can teach you to OBEY
but I cannot make Jesus Your Lord. I can tell you how to live but I cannot give you Eternal Life.
Source Unknown http://www.bible.org/illus.asp?topic_id=1065
Last night, my bride and I spent some time discussing our children. It seems a little strange to refer to a 23 year old and a 18 year old as children. This is without doubt the scariest part of our parenthood. How do you “parent” another adult? We still have a certain amount of influence in their lives, but increasingly they are making choices that we have little to zero input in.
I was reading in Matthew this morning for personal devotions. In chapter one Joseph is described as being a “righteous man”. Luke tells us the story as well and records the angel of the Lord saying, “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”
Wow, talk about intimidation! Jesus earthly father is called “righteous” and his mother is call “highly favoured”. I don’t feel like I fit in that classification, (my wife? Yes! Me? NO!)
It was in thinking on these things that I came across a few words regarding parenting that I’d like to share today.
I don’t know who wrote these word’s but they are impacting!
What a Parent Can and Can’t Do
I gave you life, but I cannot live it for you. I can teach you things but I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions but I cannot always be there to lead you. I can allow you freedom but I cannot account for it.
I can take you to church but I cannot make you believe. I can teach you right from wrong
but I can’t always decide for you.
I can buy you beautiful clothes
but I cannot make you lovely inside. I can offer you advice but I cannot accept it for you.
I can give you love but I cannot force it upon you. I can teach you to be a friend but I cannot make you one.
I can teach you to share but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect but I can’t force you to show honor.
I can grieve about your report card
but I cannot doubt your teachers. I can advise you about friends
but I cannot choose them for you.
I can teach you about sex but I cannot keep you pure. I can tell you the facts of life
but I can’t build your reputation.
I can tell you about drink but I can’t say NO for you. I can warn you about drugs but I can’t prevent you from using them.
I can tell you about lofty goals,
but I can’t achieve them for you. I can teach you kindness but I can’t force you to be gracious.
I can warn you about sins but I cannot make your morals I can love you as a daughter or son but I cannot place you in God’s Family.
I can pray for you but I cannot make you walk with God. I can teach you about Jesus
but I cannot make HIM your Saviour.
I can teach you to OBEY
but I cannot make Jesus Your Lord. I can tell you how to live but I cannot give you Eternal Life.
Source Unknown http://www.bible.org/illus.asp?topic_id=1065
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Weekend Reflections
I woke up this morning feeling that something was wrong. Then I realized that I was in our motorhome rather than our landhome. We arrived in Antioch Ca this morning about 1:35 after a long drive up interstate 5. We are in Antioch to meet up with my family for Thanksgiving!
Yesterday we buried Clayton Keene at the Forest Lawn in Hollywood Hills. Officiating a funeral always puts me in a little more somber mood than usual. I think of how quickly life passes by. It seems just yesterday that Clayton was excited because he had retired from truck driving. Just a few feet away we saw the grave of Liberace of piano fame. It made me relect that no matter who you are, how much you have or what you accomplish, at the end you cannot take it with you, and you must go.
Yesterday we buried Clayton Keene at the Forest Lawn in Hollywood Hills. Officiating a funeral always puts me in a little more somber mood than usual. I think of how quickly life passes by. It seems just yesterday that Clayton was excited because he had retired from truck driving. Just a few feet away we saw the grave of Liberace of piano fame. It made me relect that no matter who you are, how much you have or what you accomplish, at the end you cannot take it with you, and you must go.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Losing our relevancy on purpose
I've been reading the story of Henri Nouwen, a renown theologian and christian leadership expert. After 20 plus years of world travel, teaching, preaching and publishing books and literature, He felt led to stop it all and go serve in a community for mentally handicapped people.
The transition was life changing to say the least. Nouwen states: "The first thing that struck me when I came to live in a house with mentally handicapped people was that their liking of me had absolutely nothing to do with any of the many useful things I had done until then. Since nobody could read my books, the books could not impress anyone. Since none of them ever went to school, my twenty years at Notre Dame, Yale, and Harvard did not provide a significant introduction.
Nouwen goes on to relate that not being able to rely on the skills that had proven so practical up until that point, made him feel very naked. "I was suddenly faced with my naked self, open for affirmations an rejections, hugs and punches, smiles and tears, all dependent simply on how I was perceived at the moment.
As I read his words I reflect on prayer. How many times do I approach God in a professional christian manner? How many times do I go through learned processes, when really all He wants me to do is humble myself, become vulnerable and open. Jesus said it first, and said it best, "suffer the little children to come unto me," then, "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
The transition was life changing to say the least. Nouwen states: "The first thing that struck me when I came to live in a house with mentally handicapped people was that their liking of me had absolutely nothing to do with any of the many useful things I had done until then. Since nobody could read my books, the books could not impress anyone. Since none of them ever went to school, my twenty years at Notre Dame, Yale, and Harvard did not provide a significant introduction.
Nouwen goes on to relate that not being able to rely on the skills that had proven so practical up until that point, made him feel very naked. "I was suddenly faced with my naked self, open for affirmations an rejections, hugs and punches, smiles and tears, all dependent simply on how I was perceived at the moment.
As I read his words I reflect on prayer. How many times do I approach God in a professional christian manner? How many times do I go through learned processes, when really all He wants me to do is humble myself, become vulnerable and open. Jesus said it first, and said it best, "suffer the little children to come unto me," then, "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Just a note about livin'
Today we rejoiced to hear that Bethani Roam possibly will get to go home this coming Saturday. Considering that last Saturday her family was being prepared for her death, this is an incredible 2007 miracle!
I came across a statement by the irrepresible Mark Twain that I like.
"Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt. Sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth."
I have but one life to live. I'm not in a hurry for tomorrow. I want to enjoy today.
I came across a statement by the irrepresible Mark Twain that I like.
"Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt. Sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth."
I have but one life to live. I'm not in a hurry for tomorrow. I want to enjoy today.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Prayer for Bethani Roam
We have been in prayer for Bethani Roam since learning of her tragic condition on Saturday. Bethani (Bishop) Roam is the loving wife of Rev Brian Roam, mother of a 7 month old son, daughter of Rev David and Nina Bishop. She is 24 years old. Two weeks ago she became nauseated and unable to eat. She went to two different hospital - a wrong diagnoses at one and the other not able to help. She was flown to UC San Francisco on Friday, November 9. On Saturday it was determined that her liver was infected and was not working. Her family was advised that a liver transplant was needed immediately.
Yesterday, (Monday) a liver was found and surgery was performed. She is recovering very well at this point. GOD is SO good!
If you would like to follow this miracle in the making, you can visit a blog called http://bethaniroam.blogspot.com.
Yesterday, (Monday) a liver was found and surgery was performed. She is recovering very well at this point. GOD is SO good!
If you would like to follow this miracle in the making, you can visit a blog called http://bethaniroam.blogspot.com.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Carried to the table
This Sunday morning I've been reminiscing about that special time of communion that I experienced this past Friday. I looked up the words to the song that we heard while participating in Communion. It is entitled "Carried to the table" by Leeland.
Here are the words.
Wounded and forsaken
I was shattered by the fall
Broken and forgotten
Feeling lost and all alone
Summoned by the King
Into the Master’s courts
Lifted by the Savior
And cradled in His arms
I was carried to the table
Seated where I don’t belong
Carried to the table
Swept away by His love
And I don’t see my brokenness anymore
When I’m seated at the table of the Lord
I’m carried to the table
The table of the Lord
Fighting thoughts of fear
And wondering why He called my name
Am I good enough to share this cup
This world has left me lame
Even in my weakness
The Savior called my name
In His Holy presence
I’m healed and unashamed
You carried me, my God
You carried me
Here are the words.
Wounded and forsaken
I was shattered by the fall
Broken and forgotten
Feeling lost and all alone
Summoned by the King
Into the Master’s courts
Lifted by the Savior
And cradled in His arms
I was carried to the table
Seated where I don’t belong
Carried to the table
Swept away by His love
And I don’t see my brokenness anymore
When I’m seated at the table of the Lord
I’m carried to the table
The table of the Lord
Fighting thoughts of fear
And wondering why He called my name
Am I good enough to share this cup
This world has left me lame
Even in my weakness
The Savior called my name
In His Holy presence
I’m healed and unashamed
You carried me, my God
You carried me
Friday, November 9, 2007
True Communion
This morning I took the Lord's Supper in an extremely inspiring way.
Usually, we are in a church setting, standing at an altar and partake the Lord's Supper in silent contemplation.
This morning found me listening to a song by a group called Leeland singing "Carried to the table", a song about the lords supper.
I remained seated at the table in a darkened classroom, and the result was a feeling of literally sitting with Jesus and communing with Him on a very personal, intimate set.
I wept.
Usually, we are in a church setting, standing at an altar and partake the Lord's Supper in silent contemplation.
This morning found me listening to a song by a group called Leeland singing "Carried to the table", a song about the lords supper.
I remained seated at the table in a darkened classroom, and the result was a feeling of literally sitting with Jesus and communing with Him on a very personal, intimate set.
I wept.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
lonely in Seattle
Well, it's a lonely Wednesday night here in Seattle.
All my church family are getting ready for a great church service and I'm sitting in a Macaroni Grill all by myself.
Not to worry, I heard a lasagna is getting ready to join me at my table.
I'm sure we'll have some great fellowship!
All my church family are getting ready for a great church service and I'm sitting in a Macaroni Grill all by myself.
Not to worry, I heard a lasagna is getting ready to join me at my table.
I'm sure we'll have some great fellowship!
change or die
Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger have written a book called "Simple Church" that deals with the overloading of churches with programs.
I was bothered (in a good way) as I came to the end of this book. The author’s have a section entitled “change or die”. 600,000 people have heart bypasses a year in America. They are told that they MUST change their lifestyles. Their bypass is a temporary fix. Diet, smoking, drinking must quit and be replaced with exercise and reduced stress. Literally they are told, “change or die”. Studies show that 2 years after heart surgery, 90% of the heart patients do not change. Instead of making changes for life, they choose death.
In ministry I deal with many who come to God, receive the Holy Ghost (bypass?) get baptized and fail to understand that they must "change or die".
The empowering of the Holy Ghost is to help them eliminate destructive carnal drives that pull them inthe opposite direction from where God is trying to take them.
Yet even faced with losing our relationship with God, we resist change and sometimes chose death instead.
I was bothered (in a good way) as I came to the end of this book. The author’s have a section entitled “change or die”. 600,000 people have heart bypasses a year in America. They are told that they MUST change their lifestyles. Their bypass is a temporary fix. Diet, smoking, drinking must quit and be replaced with exercise and reduced stress. Literally they are told, “change or die”. Studies show that 2 years after heart surgery, 90% of the heart patients do not change. Instead of making changes for life, they choose death.
In ministry I deal with many who come to God, receive the Holy Ghost (bypass?) get baptized and fail to understand that they must "change or die".
The empowering of the Holy Ghost is to help them eliminate destructive carnal drives that pull them inthe opposite direction from where God is trying to take them.
Yet even faced with losing our relationship with God, we resist change and sometimes chose death instead.
As I start a new day
As I start this brand new day, there are things from yesterday that I dare not bring into the innocence of today.
As I start this brand new day, there are lessons from yesterday that I dare not leave to memory. They must make this journey with me.
As I start this brand new day I am forced to ask the question;
What part of me needs to die today, so that more of Jesus can be born in me?
As I start this brand new day, there are lessons from yesterday that I dare not leave to memory. They must make this journey with me.
As I start this brand new day I am forced to ask the question;
What part of me needs to die today, so that more of Jesus can be born in me?
A contemplative prayer
St. Francis of Assisi lived from 1181-1226 AD.
He wrote a prayer that is still thought provoking for us today.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
He wrote a prayer that is still thought provoking for us today.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Oh, that I may know Him!
I have started this blog as a result of a challenge. I'm taking a course in ministering to the emerging culture for my M Div program. Dr. Earl Creps challenged us today to find creative ways to reach this emergent hyper-modern culture and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I've always been partial to this story in Luke's gospel. It tells about two dejected and frustrated disciples headed home after a weekend that saw the shattering of their dreams.
They were so absorbed in their own emotional pits, that they failed to recognize Jesus as He joined their 7 mile walk home. They invited Him to stay and break bread and finally at the end of their day, they saw HIM!
"Did not our hearts burn within us?" Holy heartburn is not enough! I want to KNOW HIM!
I've always been partial to this story in Luke's gospel. It tells about two dejected and frustrated disciples headed home after a weekend that saw the shattering of their dreams.
They were so absorbed in their own emotional pits, that they failed to recognize Jesus as He joined their 7 mile walk home. They invited Him to stay and break bread and finally at the end of their day, they saw HIM!
"Did not our hearts burn within us?" Holy heartburn is not enough! I want to KNOW HIM!
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