Eyes on the Sky

Last weekend there was an air show and it was fun to see people coming out of their houses and watching the sky to see the various types of airplanes and their flying formations. Jesus gives us a similar picture associated with the end times. “At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory.” (Matt 24:30 NIV)

Make Him Out to be a Lier

Adam and Eve, Ananias and Sapphira, David and Bathsheba all have something in common…they tried to hide their stories and keep them from becoming public knowledge. An article, Lessons from PR Disasters (Toastmaster July 2010) says, “It’s natural human instinct to try to bury the worst parts of a story, thinking they won’t come out – but they almost always do. What you see time and time again in crisis situations is that the cost of not communicating quickly and admitting error up front far exceeds the cost of taking those steps.” I find it interesting that even those in the world recognize the need for quick confession, yet we believers keep mum hoping we won’t get exposed. John says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.” (1 Jn 1:9-10 NIV)

Points

I was out walking the other evening when a neighbor woman on her deck hollered at her twin teens through the patio door. “OK, that’s 10 points for both of you.” There was a pause and then, “And that’s another 20 points for whoever said that!” It’s interesting that scoring points can be a either a good thing or a bad thing. Believers sometimes fall into a similar mental game with the Lord. It’s as though we think the Lord doesn’t have anything better to do than to keep score.

Puppy-Sitting

Last week I volunteered to babysit an eight-week old puppy for a couple days. Apparently the eight to nine week-age is when puppies need socialization and boy did we socialize the little guy. When Snickers was awake and running around I hovered over him, not only for his protection, but for mine as well. One day when we were outside the fire and police sirens started going off. Snickers immediately took shelter between my feet until the wailing stopped and I gave him the ‘it’s OK to come out’ now talk. As believers we too should be taking shelter in the Lord when warning sirens sound off, but all too often our actions are more like those of the Jews in Jerusalem that Jesus described when He said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Luke 13:34 NIV)

Job's Wife

My microwave started making scratching and vibrating noises so Bill crawled through the attic insulation to see if an insect was caught in the vent. We finally concluded that something big, maybe a katydid, was trapped between the inner and outer sides of microwave itself. Aside from taking the microwave off the wall and actually dismantling it, there was no way to get to it – and even if we could get to it, we’d likely have to kill it to keep it from getting lose in the house. After seven hours of listening to the creature scratch and vibrate against its metal tomb, I considered there might a little bit of Job’s wife welling up in me…I really wanted this thing to die and get it over with so I could move on. (Job 2:9 NIV)

What You'd Have Me Do

Recently one of my aunts told me that we needed to go visit an estranged cousin because, “It is what mother would want us to do.” Not that I don’t respect grandmother’s wishes, but she has been dead for seven years. Who would have thought that even from the grave grandmother still had the power to keep all of us doing what she would do…and to feel guilty if we didn’t do it. But, in a moment of Biblical reflection I have to admit that’s exactly what happens when we belong to the Lord. Jesus still has the power to keep us doing what He would do - though not from the grave, but from the right hand of God.

Comfort

Our adult Sunday school chairs are slat-back solid wood, similar to an older style of library chair. To make them more tolerable, some folks bring cushions to sit on. However most of us just sit on the hard surfaces and later moan and groan. After an hour of class you have to stand up very slowly to get the circulation going again. There has been some conversation about getting new chairs (I’m in favor!), but you really have to laugh at our need for comfort. None of us would likely sit in a window until midnight like Eutychus (Acts 20:9).

Missing You

The woman who was subject to bleeding for 12 years touched the cloak of Jesus and was healed. “At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, ‘Who touched my clothes?’” (Mark 5:30 NIV) I sometimes have a similar feeling when a faithful saint goes home to be with the Lord. At least for a moment, it feels as though some portion of spiritual power is drained from the Body of Christ.

Tattletale

I’m not so sure, but it seems to me that the only difference between a tattletale and a whistle blower is the age of the one making the accusation. As a child you’re mocked and ridiculed when you tattle on someone, but as an adult when you blow the whistle you’re applauded for your courage. The Lord never intended for believers to simply look the other way, but there are spiritually correct ways expose sinful behavior. “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault…But if he will not listen, take one or two others along…If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church…”(Matt 18:15-17 NIV)

Labor Day

Laboring for the Lord is often in the forefront of the mind of the believer, but I’m not sure many of us think of ourselves as reapers. Jesus said, “I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” (John 4:38 NIV)

Come Again

Saturday morning a few folks were getting the church ready for Sunday services when one of our older ladies walked in with her Bible all dressed up and ready for Sunday School. When she was told she was a day early it took a moment to register but then she laughed and said, “I got up and around early today…I don’t know if I can do it again tomorrow.” Interestingly both the woman and the scheduled lesson had something in common…both were about ‘The Second Coming’.

It's a Keeper

We continue to refurbish the house and the cost keeps going up as we find other ‘little’ jobs that we might as well do while we’re at it. I find myself justifying the ongoing project by thinking of it as an investment. However, Paul burst my bubble in his discourse on how we should live, “What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep…” (1 Cor 7:29-30 NIV) I have to tell you that we’ve been working on this house as though it were ours to keep….it certainly never crossed my mind that all these improvements might be for someone else.

Let Me Recommend

A notice about an upcoming event promoted and endorsed the speaker by recalling his past presentations and then stating, “I’m sure he will not disappoint.” When I put on my evangelist hat, I sometimes search for a way to introduce Jesus to those who may not know Him. I might throw out snippets of what Jesus can do, how He can give or why He does what He does. Maybe a better introduction for me to use might be to recommend Jesus by simply saying, 'I know He will not disappoint.'

Fifty-One Percent

After the first day of school I teasingly ask seven year-old David if the teacher had given him any homework yet. He proceeded to tell me he wouldn’t have any homework until September 30th. I thought he must have misunderstood the teacher and maybe it was September 3rd. “No I’m pretty sure she said September 30th. Well, I’m 51 % sure that I don’t have any homework until September 30th.” I smiled at David’s percentage, but then realized I do something similar when it comes to spiritual attributes. Because I can’t be 100% perfect, I think in terms like 75% of the time I have self-control, or 95% of the time I have patience. No doubt there are times when my gentleness is only up to 51%.

No Apology Needed

Occasionally I get multiple announcements about the same event. Most of the time, it’s a case of someone not wanting the information to fall through the crack, so as a precaution they re-send it. It could be an email saying, “You may have already seen this” or a phone call saying, “I can’t remember whether or not I told you…” Often these messages contain a caveat apology that says if you are already aware of the situation then just simply disregard the repeated information. Recently a prayer chain email came through that ended, “If you have already received some of these prayer requests, just ignore these!” I find it humorous that we are sensitive about imposing on another person’s valuable time with re-reading a request...thankfully the Gospel writers didn’t say, ‘If you’ve already read this then just disregard.'

Life's Choices

There are some community conversations going on about whether or not our area has a homeless problem. It appears that those who feel there is a problem want to start proposing the need for a homeless shelter. From a Christian perspective we are to supply our own food and shelter, with the exception of widows and orphans who are unable to provide for themselves. Personally I don’t see homelessness as a problem that requires community solution. It seems to me that the situation is the result of either a matter of choice, or because of choices made.

Payday is Friday

I was listening to a conversation about instilling work ethics in children when one of the guys told a story about his younger brother. The boy really wanted to buy a BB gun, so his dad told him he could work at the family business. The child got his work assignment along with the instructions that he was to clock in every morning and Friday is payday. Half way through the week the young man calculated that he had enough money for the BB gun. Even though his dad suggested that working a few more days would give him money to buy some extra BB’s, the boy had all the money he needed so he quit. When he asked for his pay the dad said, “Sorry son, payday is Friday.” When payday finally came around the boy went to the store only to discover that he didn’t have enough money because the BB gun was no longer on sale. I can see this same attitude with many believers. People try to put in the minimum investment in the Lord…only what’s needed for salvation.

Attraction

I find it interesting in my Toastmasters club that people often join for a specific purpose and when that purpose is satisfied we never see them again. Maybe they just want to conquer a fear, polish a speech or promote themselves. Many of us do something similar when we first turn to the Lord. We come to Him wanting a broken heart mended, a marriage healed or a burden lifted. Jesus wants us to be attracted to Him, but not just because of what He can offer and provide for us in the moment.

Childless

There are some couples that, for one reason or another, don’t have children. It’s neither right or wrong, good or bad, positive or negative. However, church developers would have us believe that if young families aren’t part of the membership make-up, then you’re becoming a dying church. Even though by all appearances my church is childless, I am pleased that the majority of our folks reject the need-for-youth philosophy. Just as many churches deliberately reach out to minister to youth, my church is ministering to older adults in the community. Some of our folks really are dying, but that does not equate to a dying church.

The Cost

When my children got their drivers licenses I told them that driving under the influence was unacceptable and if I even so much as suspected them of drinking and driving I’d turn them into the police myself. I was of course concerned first with their safety, followed by the car, the insurance and the possible loss of their license. I was shocked when I recently heard the media reporting that the cost of a DUI is over $10,000. I doubt that many of today’s offenders have ever actually counted the cost of driving under the influence. Jesus told his followers, those then and those today, that there is a cost to becoming his disciple. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:22-27 NIV)

Blessed Ears

According to an AP report nearly 1 in 5 teens are losing some of their hearing and the likely cause is loud music and earbuds. It’s doubtful these teens understand that in the future such hearing loss will impact them personally, socially and even financially. Scripture often uses the phrase, ‘He who has an ear, let him hear…’ and yet for the believer many fail to understand that their lack of hearing has a spiritual impact. Jesus said, “For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.” (Matt 13:15 NIV)

Forgetting What is Behind

I have a cousin who is depressed about the waning years of his life. He is frustrated that he can’t do things without his walker and he has no appetite, consequentially he’s losing weight and physical strength. During a recent check-up his doctor said, “Nick, we all are going to die sometime. I can’t make you 25 years old. You’re nearly 90, so get over it! I want to come to your 90th birthday party!” Both Nick’s doctor and his wife have encouraged him to think about the things that he’s able to do, rather than dwelling on things that he can’t do. I think even when we are nearing the end of life, Paul gives us a sound example to follow, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:13b-14 NIV)

Perseverance

We have a young man who we’re paying hourly to help on our house remodel. His lament has been about his struggle in finding a full-time job, he can’t pay his bills and he’d like some benevolent assistance. He has gotten less dependable as the weeks go by. Not only is he living from pay check to paycheck, he now wants the pay check at the end of every day, rather than at the end of each week. Actually, it would not surprise me if he were to ask for an advance on his pay. Believers often slip into a similar pattern when it comes to blessings. If we are practicing faith we want to see immediate results for our efforts. We want our obedience to be rewarded today, not next week or next month. We’ve even been known to ask the Lord for advances on blessings with the promise that our actions will follow. “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” (Heb 10:35-36 NIV)

Servants Only

I recently heard a fellow believer comparing a local pastor with a prominent TV preacher. I get the feeling that she secretly thinks the local pastor should and could strive to be more like the polished preacher who she watches on TV each week. Paul took the Corinthians to task for similar thoughts. “For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not mere men? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task.” (1 Cor 3:4-5 NIV)

Polarizing

One of the pieces of public art on display in town is a large, ugly fish made out of rusted pieces on metal. The tile of the exhibit is Trash Fish and community art critics all seem to agree that when it comes to appreciation there is no in between, you either like it or hate it. Interestingly the new rusted metal siding on my house is getting similar responses. The comments range from, “It’s really distinctive…, It’s a bold move…I wasn’t sure I liked it, but the rockwork has pulled it all together…, It’s different.” I like the fact that the house is visually set apart from other houses, but I wasn’t quite prepared to actually have it critiqued by the general public. I think there is a lesson for me in this, when I apply it to my Christianity. As a believer we need to be distinctive, bold, and different…and we also need to expect the critique that comes with it because we are set apart from those who are in the world.

Master Plan

In planning for the future, local government uses a master plan to project what will be needed in 20-30 years. We have master plans for the city in general, as well as for the sewer and the river corridor. A colleague recently pointed out that his metro-community has a 20-year jail master plan, which will include four more jail buildings on top of the 1,500 new beds that were just built. “My God,” he said, “we are planning jails for kids who aren’t even born yet.” My friend’s vision to turn the situation around and avoid the need for jail beds is to invest in crime prevention alternatives. Even as believers we sometimes try to incorporate our vision to the Master’s Plan… I think we need to be reminded that His plan isn’t just for the present day, but also for kids who aren’t even born yet.

Replacements

I just received a fundraiser envelope from the Disabled American Veterans that included pre-printed address labels, a book mark, a prayer for luck and a gold token. I’ll probably use the address labels. The book mark says, “May angels of love, luck and liberty always smile at you and surround you wherever you go.” I can only imagine how the angels of the Lord feel about the new designation bestowed upon on them by the DAV. The prayer says, “I pray for grace from stars above…” I suppose that might give comfort to those who practice astrology. “May luck and joy be with all who know that what you reap is what you sow.” Exactly how would you go about sowing luck and joy? The coin, which they suggest you keep close to you, is said to be, “a symbol of faith…a sign of courage”. Interesting how the secular community tries to repackage not only angels and grace, but also the armor of God (Eph 6:11).

On the Job Training

Generally speaking in the church we cut prospective teachers and leaders a lot of slack as they are developing their skills. However, when we come across an individual who wows us with their talk and knowledge we immediately want to know where they received their education. It’s almost as though regardless of their ability and courage to impart the Word, we want to know who certified them qualified. Peter and John had a similar experience when they were before the Sanhedrin who, “…realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13 NIV) I think we need to be reminded that a Bible college education doesn't trump being filled with the Holy Spirit.

While Away

In his epistles Paul showered the churches with care and concern. He was always thanking God for them, praying for them, thinking of them and wanting to hear reports on how they were doing. I don’t think I’m alone by saying that when I’m out of town or on vacation I give more thought to what I’m doing, than I do to what my church family is doing. Oh, there may be someone or something in particular that crosses my mind, but in general I don’t spend a lot of time in prayer for them when I’m away from them. Nor do I write them a letter of encouragement, or call them to get a report. I really have to wonder what the character of my church would look like if we had our own Paul hovering over us.

Patina

I’ve been referring to the new siding on the house as rusted metal, but the other day someone called it patina steel. I like that…it definitely sounds more chic. In Webster’s Dictionary one of the definitions for patina is, ‘a superficial covering or exterior’. We know that Jesus looks at the heart of men, but He also pays attention to man’s patina. As in the case of the teachers of the law and Pharisees, “Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long…” (Matt 25:5 NIV)

Singing in the Rain

During worship I love to stand in the same vicinity as someone who is a gifted singer. Not only can I follow their lead, but somehow it emboldens me to sing out stronger. I’m sure they are thinking, ‘If she can’t sing that well, why on earth is she singing so loudly?’ I’ve recently discovered that when a few weaker vocalist band together we sound pretty good…and we cover over a multitude of vocal sins. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8 NIV)

Cease and Desist

When you go to conventions it’s not unusual to wind up on someone’s mailing list. Maybe you sign up for their newsletter, put your name in a hat for a drawing, or you give them a business card. For over 20 years I’ve been getting a quarterly newsletter from a ministry in which I have no investment or interest. At one time I tried to stop the newsletter, but it continues to arrive in my mailbox. Sometimes in ministry we can become so focused on outreach that we don’t realize when we are wasting time, energy and resources. When the twelve were sent out they were given clear direction on when their ministry efforts should cease. Jesus said, “And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them.” (Mark 6:11 NIV)

Those Were the Days

We can look back to our younger years - sometimes with regret, embarrassment or prowess – and think ‘ah, the days of my youth’. The writer of Hebrews says, “In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence.” (Hebrews 5:7 ESV) Someday we will be 100% spiritual beings, thankfully we won’t have to be looking back to the days of our flesh.

The Prize

Every evening my neighbors drive their 4 X 4 truck up to our group of mail boxes. Their son, who is 8 years-old, jumps down out of the truck, gets the mail and hands it back to his mom through the open passenger window. Then hunching down on the sidewalk on imaginary starting blocks, he aligns himself with the front of the big red truck. When the signal is given, both boy and truck race around the corner of the block to his house. The dad gooses the diesel engine a couple of times for sound effects causing the boy to grin from ear to ear and run all the faster. Whether or not he wins or loses, it appears that the young man always runs to win. The Apostle Paul wants to see that type of character in believers, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” (1 Cor 9:24 NIV)

Give Away

Women can get worn down by children who seem to test them beyond their limits. One of our exasperated anthems becomes, “Wait until your father gets home.” I don’t think we realize that by using that statement we’ve in essence relinquished our authority to our husbands. Certainly women are to be in submission to husbands and to men in authority, however we’re not told to abdicate authority positions than have been given to us.

A Simple Remodel

My house is getting all new windows and siding, which means that every room in the house is torn up. Dry wall must be patched and painted, interior window casings painted and new draperies hung…and the mess cleaned up. To add to the confusion one section of an electrical circuit in the kitchen died and had to be rewired. The garbage disposal bit the dust went a nail fell into it. To top it off a newly discovered leak in the shower wasn’t new after all and the drywall in the shower is ruined. The whole shower is now gutted and getting a facelift. It sort of reminds me of becoming a Christian. You think you’re coming to the Lord just to be saved and then the Spirit moves in and starts remodeling His new digs. Every time you turn around there’s another character issue that needs to be dealt with. And the remodel doesn’t stop just because you’re a seasoned Christian.

Greatest in the Kingdom

Lydia, my 4 year-old granddaughter is tentative about giving or getting wet-willies, the art of putting you index finger in your mouth and sneaking up on some unsuspecting soul and sticking your wet finger in their ear. She recently played a game changer saying, “I'd think I’d rather have a dry Willie.” My mental reaction was, ‘well, what fun is that?’, and yet Lydia giggled just as much trying to avoid a dry finger in her ear as she did the wet finger. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven”. (Matt 18:3 NIV)

Galvanized

Sarah Palin cannot be dismissed as a political force and one reporter describes her as having the power to ‘galvanize the Republican Party’. According to Webster’s to galvanize is, “to subject to the action of an electric current…; to stimulate or excite as if by an electric shock”. I’m reminded of the power that left Jesus when the woman touched His cloak or the healing power that came through the touch of the Apostles hands. We sometimes need to be reminded that the Holy Spirit has given us power to galvanize others.

His Voice

Recently there was a feel good story in the Los Angeles Daily News, written by Dennis McCarthy. When an Asian woman could no longer keep her dog she left him, along with a sizable donation, at a private ‘no-kill’ shelter. The shelter never could find a good home for Tuffy, a Korean Jindo dog. “That dog just turned the world off. He wanted no part of it…he just shut down.” Four and a half years later the Asian woman wanted to adopt a dog of the same breed and through the Internet she re-discovered Tuffy. A meeting was arranged, but Tuffy was sadly unresponsive to his former owner…that is until an employee suggested that the woman speak to the dog in Korean. I know exactly how Tuffy feels. Jesus speaks to me in a language that I understand. “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27-28 NIV)

Public Viewing

I can understand the pros and cons of having baptisms during a Sunday worship service, both from the perspective of the baptizer and the baptizee. Today the waters of baptism for many churches have to be moved into place, filled-up and warmed-up. There is something to be said for planning ahead and scheduling, but I do miss the spontaneity we once had with the confession of faith followed immediately by the public witness of baptism. It’s interesting to think that God could have scheduled the crucifixion for a time when only a couple of witnesses could be present, instead he sent Jesus to die on the cross openly, for all to see. I would hope that those coming to the Lord would be encouraged to do no less than to die openly in the waters of baptism.

Good Samaritans

I’m not an impulse shopper, nor an impulsive giver, which for me means sticking to pre-determined budgeting. Often I find myself explaining to a ministry solicitation that I can’t offer them support because my tithing and giving funds have already been earmarked. Because of my personality, it fascinates me that some of the most generous givers to our church are visitors. I feel fairly certain that when these folks first walked in the door that our church wasn’t a line item in their budget. Their generosity reminds me of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:33-37). As they travel by they show compassion and in a very real sense they ‘bandaged our wounds, pouring on oil and wine’.

Not My Will, But Yours

When it comes to a huge accomplishment it’s not unusual for someone to say they have invested their blood, sweat and tears. The energy expelled could be from the work of their hands, or emotionally as they interact with people in their life. By accepting the will of the Father, Jesus made such an investment in us. “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Luke 22:44 NIV)

I'm Glad You Asked

I produce a newsletter for our church for the sole purpose of helping us get better acquainted with one another. Every week I interview a member and then write a brief biography and narrative about them. Lately a few of the folks have been thinking ahead about what they might say if I were to call them for an interview. Prefacing their answers they say, “I thought you might be asking that.” When I die I won’t be a featured interview in a heavenly newsletter, but what if I was? With the good and the bad that I’ve done in life, I wonder if I would have the where-with-all to say, “I thought you might be asking that.”

Expiration

I just purchased some iodized salt and the ‘best used by’ date on the bottom is June of 2015. Since believers are the ‘salt of the earth’, it gives me cause to wonder what my expiration date might be. I’d like to think it would be the date that will appear on my death certificate. However, Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.” (Matt 5:13 NIV) I suppose if you ever find yourself in a heap and walked on by men, then you can rightly conclude you’ve passed your best used by date.

Ripped Off

Last week I was in the clearance isle of a shoe store when I noticed a pair of well worn shoes in a box on the display shelf. Obviously someone had walked out of the store wearing a new pair of shoes and leaving their old pair behind. When the sales clerk walked by I told her that it appeared that the store had been ripped off. She laughed and explained that the shoes were actually new, but that they were made to look old. After further inspection the only thing giving the new shoes away were the sole. The Pharisees tried their best to keep the old look and feel of the Law, but Jesus told them to take a look at their souls, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NIV)

The Truth

In a TV interview, White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs made the comment that there were enough House seats in play for the November election that it would be possible for the Democrats to lose the House majority. While Mr. Gibbs spoke the truth, it was a truth that Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, doesn’t want spoken. Apparently the Democrat leadership fears that this train of thought could become a self-fulfilling prophesy. Jesus said, “… the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32b NIV), even as believers we need those who are willing to speak the truth.

Possessions

I recently visited with a woman who, when her husband passed away, was left with land, farming equipment and livestock. “We always talked in terms of it being our land, our livestock, and our property. The truth was that it wasn’t ours, it really belonged to the bank.” Taking her thought a step further she added, “And in reality it didn’t even belong to the bank either, it all belongs to God.” She has a great point. Many of us try to figure out the loopholes to keep the government from putting their hand in our pocket and taking our money. Maybe we need to remind ourselves that even if they take it, it really isn’t theirs either…it all belongs to God.

Age Appropriate

Generally speaking, Scripture applies to all of us unless it specifically addresses young men, virgins, old men, etc. However, as we get older many seem to set Biblical instruction and promises aside as though they no longer pertain. Forgetting that the Lord will never leave us or forsake us, we’re downcast about having to downsize, aggravated that others are making decisions for us, and mad at the loss of physical strength and bodily functions. We need to be reminded that all Scripture is age appropriate.

Been There

When we’re trying to explain our thought process or our point of view we often ask one another, “Do you understand where I’m coming from?” The question can take on a whole different meaning and requires a different answer if it comes from a believer. We come from darkness to light, weak to strong, lost to found, death to life…“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor 5:17 NIV) Rejoicing certainly is in order when we pause long enough to remember where we’ve come from.

Stranger Testing

A few weeks back an older couple came into church just as the worship service was about to begin. They appeared to be visitors so I gave them a quick welcome while showing them different areas of seating that were available. With a curt, “We were here one other time and all the seats were being saved for others.” the woman forged ahead and found a place to sit. God does have a sense of humor. It just happened to be the 4th of July and our attendance was down by about 20 people, which gave her more seats to choose from. After the service I learned that last year when this couple visited us the woman’s critique was that we were, ‘the most unfriendly church she’d ever attended’. At first blush I wondered why they bothered to come back and then I thought about the strangers that we sometimes encounter. Maybe this is a test! “Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Heb 13:1-2 NIV)

Super-Apostles

Describing false apostles that had infiltrated the Corinthian church Paul sarcastically calls them super-apostles(2 Cor 11:5, 12:11) The NIV footnote says they were “…in reality not apostles at all, except in their own arrogantly inflated opinion of themselves.” I’m somewhat bothered by believers branding one another with titles such as, Super-Christian, Bible-Thumper or Holier-Than-Thou. I can’t be certain, but I suspect few believers set out intending to become a Super-Christian, and yet for whatever reason, others label them with that description. I think it’s possible that some of us hold back our zeal for the Lord because we fear our peers will evaluate us and deem us self-righteous.

Power in Words

As believers we know there is power in the word of God, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double–edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Heb 4:12 NIV). However, I’m not so sure that we give much thought to the power in our own words. At a recent conference I attended the main session was presented by author and speaker Gene Griessman, Ph. D. His advice was to never stop working on communication skills, “Words have power…Once they are spoken they take on a life of their own. They can come back to bless you or to cause you pain.”

Talking Heads

I’m glad that Talk News has contributors who are both for and against an issue and I appreciate hearing the differing views…when I can actually hear what is being said. All too often the host will let, or even encourage the guests talk loudly over one another. Occasionally a facilitator will even join in the verbal free-for-all as though they themselves were part of the panel discussion. I see shades of Paul in Ephesus when the whole city was in an uproar and the crowd rushed into the theater shouting, ‘Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!’ “The assembly was in confusion: Some were shouting one thing, some another. Most of the people did not even know why they were there.” (Acts 19:32 NIV) As a viewer of Talk News I think there are more than a few of us who get weary of the confusion and wonder, ‘Why I’m here?’

Leave a Message

We’re all accustomed to getting voice mail that says, ‘Sorry I missed you’re call. Leave a message and I’ll get back with you as soon as possible.’ Recently my co-worker called a prospective client and the voice recording said, “I’m looking at making some drastic changes in my life, so if I don’t answer your call…you’re one of them.” Well, all righty… While we may laugh at the sentiment, I doubt that most of us would actually endorse such sarcasm. However, on a Christian level there is a point to be made. When we become a believer we must say to the world and to Satan, ‘I’m making drastic changes in my life so I’ll no longer be taking your calls.’

Holiday Closure

This year the 4th of July fell on a Sunday, so government offices will be closed on Monday, July 5th to give employees their holiday. Interestingly a woman asked if our church would be cancelling worship services on Sunday the 4th in honor of Independence Day. I would like to say the thought is absurd, but the reality is that 20 years ago who would have ever thought we’d be cancelling Sunday and Wednesday evening services. Sadly, holiday closures for churches are in the realm of possibility.

Rusty Treasures

We are getting new siding on our house and we’ve made an unconventional decision to do the entire house in rusted metal. We have panels of corrugated iron strewn all over the yard and Bill is hastening the rusting process by applying muriatic acid and water. Watching more rust appear hourly gives me a whole new perspective as to what God sees when he looks at my earthly treasures. “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt 6:20-21 NIV)

Every Word

I have a colleague who I see about eight times a year. She has a tell it like it is personality and she’ll let you know in no uncertain terms what she thinks about you. Her philosophy is, “If you don’t want my opinion, then you better not ask for it.” She uncaringly brings others to tears and to say she is harsh is an understatement. In a strange way I find myself thinking, ‘I really hope she’s not a Christian, or if she is that I’m not standing next to her on the day of judgment’. Jesus said, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt 12:36-37 NIV)

In Case of Emergency

The City asks that those who serve on Council to obtain a certain level of emergency preparedness. In connection with NIMS (National Incident Management System), I just completed three FEMA independent course studies. Each class was over three hours long and caused me great brain drain. However, I can now boast that I’m equipped in crisis management, whether it is local, tribal, state or federal. I can handle any catastrophe or disaster - up to and including Armageddon. I figured it wouldn’t do any good to tell them that I’m a pre-tribber and won’t be available at Armageddon.

Not Seeing is Believing

Somewhere along the line the word belief seems to have become accepted as a substitute for opinion. Do you believe in angels? I believe you should feed a cold and starve a fever. I came across an interesting conversation on a web site: A man asked his sister, “Do you believe in global warming?” She replied, “Noooo. I believe in God. Science does not require me to believe in anything.”

Raising Up

We often talk about raising children and sometimes joke that because they are our children we never get them completely raised. I recently heard someone take a different slant on the issue by saying, “You’ve raised a man.” When you stop and think about it, our goal is not to raise children, but to raise men and women. We can look back and document physical and mental progress from childhood to adulthood, but it’s much more difficult for us to measure spiritual growth. I suppose one milestone is when we put spiritually-childish ways behind us. “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.” (1 Cor 13:11 NIV)

Moving Mountains

Author James B. Stewart describes a scene after a natural disaster by saying, “The only possible human reaction seemed to be a similarly calm and peaceful submission to forces beyond our control.” I think that’s how the majority of us feel when we finally accept and acknowledge that a situation is totally out of our control. However, I can’t always make the same application in spiritual matters. There are always those motivational Scriptures running around in my head that keep me on the edge of having some element of control. ‘Pray and keep on praying…whatever you ask in My name…’ It’s a little hard to have calm and peaceful submission when you know you can move mountains.

On the Record

Occasionally I have to talk to the media and the harder I try to choose my words the more I feel like I’m babbling. I learned quickly that when speaking to a reporter you have to be specific, ‘This is on the record; this is off the record’. You do become a person of fewer words when there is a possibility that what you say may wind up on tomorrow’s front page. As believers we often do something similar with one another by saying, ‘please don’t repeat this’. How bright is that? Even if the confidence is kept, God has heard every word we spoke…and it is on the record!

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

I’ve been involved in some organizations where the Past President stays on the board for the coming year to add continuity to the group. It’s a nice gesture and in a sense it also helps the outgoing leader adjust to his new role of having less authority and official respect. In the arena of elected officials it’s somewhat shocking and yet humorous, at how quickly people are shuttled into and out of office. The phone starts ringing the day you’re sworn into office and abruptly stops the day your term is over. Paul reminds us about our temporary positions in life, “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” (Romans 12:3 NIV)

Expanding vs. Planting

It’s interesting that we seem to have a different standard for growing the church in the US than we have for growing it in a foreign country. On the mission field we want to plant as many churches as possible, but when it comes to the American church our business and marketing juices kick in. We think in terms of expanding churches rather than planting them. Certainly God’s kingdom can grow in either case, but I sometimes wonder if by building big churches we’ve somehow missed the big picture.

Little Black Book

I have a family member with a very long memory when it comes to slights, grudges and vendettas. I can’t imagine how much time and effort it takes to mentally file away all those perceived injustices, let alone the ability to retrieve them at every opportunity. Recently I came across an associate who has a similar personality, but a different filing system. She records infractions by others in a little black book - person, date, time and place. I suppose that’s one way to compensate for having a short term memory. Love… “It is not rude, it is not self–seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Cor 13:5 NIV)

Entrée

My son is allergic to shellfish, my grandson to peanuts and my daughter to wheat. Add to that, at any one time two or more in the family are always dieting…and none of us choose to be on the same diet. It’s a cook’s nightmare because it seems impossible to meet everyone’s needs. I think God had the right idea to put manna on the menu during the 40 years in the wilderness.

Prayer Value

Amongst believers I’ve heard criticism that when someone is in need we should do more than simply offer to pray for them. I’m sure the intent is meant to say that actions speak louder than words; however I think we need to be cautious with that train of thought. Prayer is powerful, but if we imply to one another that it is just a token gesture, then we devalue its worth. Jesus chose prayer over action with Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32 NIV)

'Tis the Season

For many grocery shoppers the harvest season loses its impact because most foods are always available. I recently learned that in Afghanistan the end of the harvest season is simply the beginning of the fighting season. For these folks once the work of the harvest is completed they pick up their weapons and return to the battle field. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…” (Ecc 3:1 NIV)

Profiling

The best way to stop a discussion on immigration is for someone to toss in the ‘racial profiling’ remark. Something similar happens in the church. When we talk about one another’s spiritual characteristics invariably someone will toss in a cautionary ‘thou shalt not judge’ and thus ends discussion. The truth is that the Bible offers spiritual profiles on believers, as well as unbelievers. “For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible.” (Matt 24:24 NIV)

Bind Us Together

I’m still on the prayer chain of XYZ Church and I appreciate being able to remain connected to them in a prayerful way. When a recent email request came through, my eyes were drawn to the list of addressees and I discovered that more than half of those on the list were no longer affiliated with that church. While a few had moved out of town, others had moved to various local congregations in the community. I love the fact that even though we no longer physically worship together, we can still be brought together by a call to worship in prayer.

Out of Sight

When my kids were eligible to drive I taught them my version of defensive driving, ‘Always expect the other guy to do something stupid.’ Recently as I was preparing to turn right on a red light, I had to pull out a little into the crosswalk to see around the cars waiting for the green light. From out of nowhere a man in an electric scooter whizzed past my bumper and up onto the sidewalk. It was a close enough call that I immediately began thanking God for my guardian angel. It dawned on me that conceivably there were actually two guardian angels…one for me and one for my wheelchair bound friend. “When did we see you…” Matt 25:37-38

Unanswered

I just discovered a couple of unopened emails that dated back to March. Both messages were partly scrambled and the ‘sent from’ names were not the names of the sender. Obviously Bresnan and/or Outlook had a glitch. I emailed the senders, explaining and apologizing for the three month delay in responding. I can imagine the possibility that when I die I’m going to discover that my heavenly email account has more than a few unopened messages from the Holy Spirit.

Worldly Things

Last week I had some really stressful meetings and I kept replaying them in my head during Sunday morning worship. My thoughts wandered away during the singing, were unfocused through communion and were distracted by side trips during the sermon. I have to give the Spirit credit for trying to get my attention…more than once He called me Martha. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.” (Luke 10:41 NIV)

Body Building

My Sunday School class is doing a video series about the exodus of the Israelites. Our trek had us wandering around in the dessert for 40 years and we’re just now entering the Promised Land. Scripture is pretty plain that the dessert experience was a time of testing for the Hebrews, however the narrator went a step further and had us consider how the Israelites were strengthened because of the experience. I’m always relieved to have survived a personal dessert trial, but I had not thought about the strength I’ve picked up along the way.

The Last Drop

I had a pew partner, a lifelong believer, who is suffering from dementia. As the communion emblems were passed he took the bread and ate it and then took the cup. Similar to sipping tea, he sipped the grape juice by putting it to his lips and then moving it away. Each time he moved it away he looked at the juice that remained. Somehow he just couldn’t manage to either tilt his head back or tip his wrist so that he could fully drink the juice. Patiently and quietly his wife tried to get him to just return the cup to the tray and pass it on, however he was focused on finishing the juice. Often the emblems are quickly passed from person to person with no thought that every drop of the Lord’s blood is precious…His cup was indeed emptied for us.

Leaning

Since I want to be a better writer, I take every opportunity to learn more about the craft. However I now have to get educated in areas for which I have no natural interest. For instance my Airport Advisory Board has me learning about enplanements and fuel loads. My NIMS class, through FEMA, is trying to prepare me for disasters. And the Economic Development folks are teaching me how to package and sell our community to prospective businesses. I often must lean on the understanding of others until I’m comfortably educated and feel confident in being able to converse and make correct decisions. It sounds remarkably similar to, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV)

Sticky Sweet

A comedian gets me to laugh or a teacher causes me to learn, but I’ve never understood what I’m supposed to get from a presenter that oozes sweetness. What I find remarkable is that the only place I’ve encountered such affliction is within the church setting. Whether it is a television evangelist or a retreat speaker, it’s as though they think dramatizing their words will produce an emotional response. For many of us the results are just the opposite. When a speaker forces a sigh or a sob that fail to come from the heart, it is merely sugar coated hypocrisy.

Repeating What I Heard

My husband is the middle child of three brothers very close in age. During their teens and pre-teens, the youngest brother Jim got mad at the other two and decided to run away from home. Bill said, “Ray and I just parroted back what we’d always heard Dad say…‘let me help you pack’.” Sure enough Jim ran away and walked over 15 miles before a family friend (State Patrolman) found him and brought him home. Obviously in this case egging Jim on by offering to help him pack was no help at all. However, in the believer’s world there is merit in being able to know and repeat back what the Father says. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matt 4:4 ESV)

Body Parts

I just had arthroscopic surgery done on a knee. I’ve discovered that by favoring the knee that was operated on, I’m developing aches and pains other parts of my body. My back is strained, the left hip is rebelling from carrying more weight and the right foot is weary of having to be the first foot forward. Paul compares the church body to the human body. I can attest, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it…” (1 Cor 12:26a NIV)

Memorial Day

While all Veterans have given a ‘portion’ of their life in the service of their country, in battle many have actually given their life. “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” (1 John 3:16 ESV)

Broken Pieces

When I think about Jesus picking up the basketfuls of broken pieces of loaves and fish after the feeding of the 5,000 and 4,000, I’m reminded that He also picks up the broken pieces of our lives. After a crisis is over many of us move on with the busyness of life and often forget what the Lord has brought us through. As Jesus was trying to warn the disciples about the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees, they had forgotten the lesson of the leftover loaves and fish. To their forgetfulness Jesus said, “Oh you of little faith…” (Matt 16:3-12)

Regain My Sight

There are many references in Scripture to being both physically and spiritually blind. When those who were physically blind came to Jesus their request was, “Lord, I want my sight.” The Pharisees on the other hand were spiritually blind didn’t even know well enough to ask for their sight. Growing as believer I know I still have a certain level of immaturity in some areas of my walk. I know I may not always see perfectly well, however it’s never crossed my mind that in some instances I could be spiritually blind. I might do well to begin my day by saying, “Lord, I want my sight.”

Forget Me Not

On Mother’s Day I went to a tea at the nursing home and one of the residents, an elderly woman sat at the table across the way. She had a beautiful long stemmed red rose and while waiting for the tea to be served she began one by one pulling the delicate petals off the bud. She felt the texture and closely examined the rich red color…both front and back. By the time the aide noticed Miss Dorothy’s dissection, it was too late. All that remained was a pile of petals, a green thorny stem and a few flakes of yellow pollen. I too got a rose and brought it home and put it in a vase, but it never opened. The bud soon drooped on the stem, turned black-red and then shriveled up. Somehow I think Miss Dorothy enjoyed her rose so much more. “To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life…” (2Cor 2:16a NIV)

Between You and Him Alone

When we feel slighted, abused or sinned against, we often want more than just a resolution; we want the world to know of our mistreatment. I’m not so sure that we ever lose that childhood need to tattle. The Lord however has a pattern to take the tattle out of the tattler, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” (Matt 18:15-17 ESV)

Pray With Me

During Sunday morning worship there are usually three or four opportunities for public prayer. Before praying the person leading will sometimes make the statement, “Will you pray with me.” Recently I heard this not as a statement, but as a question, “Will you pray with me?” I had a real sense of the whole congregation being invited to join in the prayer, rather than just being a bystander to the prayer.

Intervention

There are many intervention programs on TV and they cover the whole gamut of our society, everything from saving animals to saving people. The account of the man with an evil spirit in the region of the Gerasenes sounds to me quite similar to folks who are addicted to drugs and who do not want to be confronted. The possessed man was out of his mind, crying out and cutting himself with stones. He lived in the tombs and was so strong that even chains could not bind him. When the man saw Jesus, “He shouted at the top of his voice, ‘What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear to God that you won’t torture me!’” Jesus intervened by casting the evil spirit out…a spiritual detox of sorts. (Mark 5:1-20 NIV)

Role Playing

I recently watched a crime drama on TV and the plot centered on a people who were into spy and intrigue role playing. The company Spy Ventures tried to make the game as authentic as possible, but the participants got caught up in real life when one of the spies was actually murdered. One role playing character was then arrested and thrown in jail on suspicion of murder. He wasn’t overly cooperative with the police until he finally separated fact from fantasy, “What? You mean I really am in jail. This isn’t just part of the game?” I can imagine something similar happening to folks who never get around to accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. ‘What? You mean I’m really in Hell?’

Heroes vs. Villains

The TV show Survivor just finished its 20th season with a competition between players from previous seasons. While the show’s producers describe it as one of their best seasons ever, most of the contestants said they really weren’t having a lot of fun. Since the players all knew the intricacies of the game their level of gamesmanship was always serious, calculating and manipulative. There was never any time to enjoy the moment and the experience. I can easily fall into a similar mind set when it comes to the Gospel. If I’m not careful, winning souls becomes such a serious matter that I miss the moment and the experience.

It's Good to be Jealous

Whether it’s an immediate family member, or a very dear friend, it’s easy to feel indignation when someone slights them. In a similar situation Eldad and Medad were prophesying in the camp of Israel and Moses’ aid Joshua felt that their activities infringed upon the leadership of Moses. While I can think of many reactions that Moses could have had, the one he came up with surprises me. Moses simply asks Joshua, “Are you jealous for my sake?” (Numbers 11:29a NIV). Certainly believers should be jealous for the Lord’s sake, which fits with God’s character, “…I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God…” (Ex 20:5b NIV)

Mandatory Volunteerism

A school board in California has decided to force parents to be involved in their children’s education. Their justification is that they are being advocates for the students. Parents, or other family members, are being required to volunteer 3 ½ hours a month (30 hours a year) in their child’s classroom. This seems intrusive on so many levels. On the one hand I can feel indignant for these parents and think they should be allowed to choose, however when I put on my believer-hat I sometimes wish God would give me just a 3 1/2 hour monthly requirement.

Speak Up

I keep finding myself in situations where someone will make a statement that’s incorrect or misleading. I can remember similar situations when I was raising my children. If I speak up it’s like throwing cold water on the discussion, but if I keep quiet invariably someone will later say, ‘But you didn’t say anything. Why didn’t you weigh in or object at the time?’ When I do give my reality check people often think of me as a spoiler. “Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” (2 Cor 4:2 NIV)

Proselytizing in the Church

When it comes to trying to get others involved in his particular ministry, I know a man who tries to beg, borrow and steal volunteers away from other ministries. His zeal can border on obnoxious. From his perspective it’s always about the needs and successes of what he is doing, it’s never about anyone else’s ministry. Although I’m sure it’s not intentional, he leaves you thinking that the only place the Lord is working is in his ministry and you really should sign on. I can’t help but wonder if he is in fact hindering the Lord’s work by trying to draw folks away from other ministries.“It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,…” (Eph 4:11 NIV)

Drop Dead Moments

When there are fund drives for Muscular Dystrophy or a national disaster people often make pledges over the phone. It surprises me that some of these folks then fail, in all or part, to honor the amount of their pledge. I think this lapse of judgment has shades of Ananias and Sapphira. (Acts 5:1-10) Although we may not see or understand the evidence of God’s discipline, there is no doubt that even today there are still people who lie to the Spirit. It might make an impression on some of us if we were to see the cause of death on a death certificate listed as: Lied to the Holy Spirit.

Yes, Jesus Loves Me...

An awkward and uncomfortable situation can arise when someone tells you that they love you, but you don’t have the same feelings for them. And yet, that’s exactly what the Lord says to us. For some, expressing love for the Lord doesn’t come naturally or instantaneously. Even though a new believer may be unable to express heartfelt love for Jesus, the important thing is for them to know is that He loves them.

Harvesters

In the Parable of the Weeds an enemy slipped into a man’s field and sowed weeds among the wheat. The wheat and the weed sprouted at the same time and the owner’s servants offered to go into the field and pull up the weeds. “‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest.’” (Matt 13:29-30a NIV) I think many of us can relate to the servants. We look at our neighbor’s life and immediately want to help him weed out what the enemy has sowed.

So Help Me God

When giving testimony in a legal proceeding you take an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. However, the truth that you tell is often dependent upon the questions asked by the attorney or the judge. The whole truth is not always revealed because you are limited by what is admissible. During Jesus’ ministry there were times where He didn’t respond to questions, or he might answer a question by asking one of his own, or He chose to respond in parables. However at His trial Jesus was ask, “Are you then the Son of God?” He spoke the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth…

Greener Grass

The house next door is a rental property and over the years we’ve watched renters come and go. One tenant will spend the summer tilling, seeding and watering the yard, then he leaves and the next guy moves in and lets the yard revert back to nature. The last neighbor’s Labrador pup dug so many holes that the yard could have passed for a prairie dog colony. However the children in the family loved driving their Tonka trucks around the pocked marked terrain. Similar to watching the yard next door, I picture God watching our spiritual lot. We have to decide if we’re going to make the grass greener or just play in the dirt.

Actors

I get irritated with Hollywood actors who think that their star-power somehow entitles them to a political persuasion and authority in social issues. It would be more understandable if they were trying to engage just their fan base, but it appears that they really think that the world is their stage and everyone is an admirer. Likewise, there are those who have a certain amount of star-power within the body of Christ that think the masses will embrace their views when they take the political and social stage. Paul has a warning for all who think highly of themselves. “If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.” (Gal 6:3 NIV)

Here's Your Sign

At a stoplight in the Denver metro area a man was holding a sign that read, “Trying to heal, wishing I had a home and a job”. I thought it was an interesting commentary for one’s life and it reminded me of the man, an invalid for 38 years, who laid beside a pool. Jesus said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” It occurs to me that busy traffic intersections have become the equivalent of a modern day pool called Bethesda. I can imagine Jesus saying to those carrying signs the same thing he said to the invalid, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” (John 5: 6b-8 ESV)

Cut and Paste

Both of my young grandchildren use the English Standard Version of the Bible, however their dad had the American Standard and their mother the New King James. Last week mom and dad bought new Bibles and switched to the ESV. “Good!” said six year-old David. “Now we’re all going to be reading the same thing.” I can so appreciate where he’s coming from. Every once in a while the congregation is led in saying the Lord’s Prayer in unison…that is until we get to the part about forgive us ‘our debts’ and some of us don’t know whether it’s our debts, or our trespasses (Matt 6:9-13). I conferred with an older preacher and we both agreed that we memorized it as trespasses, but I can’t for the life of me find a translation that uses the word trespass in the Lord’s Prayer. However, the word trespass does appear in the two verses following the Lord’s Prayer in the King James Version. So now I’m in a quandary…did I do a mental cut and paste and get it mixed up, or did my childhood Sunday School teacher goof and give me a gold star for an incorrect memorization?