Change

I've been thinking about change today. I want change in me.

We live in troubled times and we hear how much others want change too.

Politicians run their campaigns based on the theme of "change". Parents want change in their children. Children want change in their parents. Pastors want change in their congregations.

But the truth is that God wants change in us too and the Bible answers why: "You are not your own."

1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV - "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;"

While thinking about change more and searching the Internet, I found an excellent post related to this in the blog Standing For Truth. The message was built around the old hymn "Whatever It Takes".

The hymn seems to tell it all. It touched me.

Consider the lyrics (below) words and read the post here. I pray that you will be touched too.

Whatever It Takes

There’s a voice calling me

From an old rugged tree

And He whispers, “Draw closer to Me;

Leave this world far behind,

There are new heights to climb,

And a new place in Me you will find.”

For whatever it takes to draw closer to you, Lord,

That’s what I’ll be willing to do.

For whatever it takes to be more like You,

That’s what I’ll be willing to do.

Take the dearest things to me,

If that’s how it must be,

To draw me closer to Thee;

Let the disappointments come,

Lonely days without the sun,

If through sorrow more like

You I’ll become.

Take my houses, my lands,

Change my dreams, change my plans

For I’m placing my whole life in Your hands;

And if You call me today…

To a place far away

Lord, I’ll go, and Your will obey.

I’ll trade sunshine for rain

Comfort for pain -

That’s what I’ll be willing to do -

For whatever it takes for my will to break,

That’s what I’ll be willing to do.

That’s what I’ll be willing to do.

Our Judeo-Christian Nation

National Day of Prayer Proclamation, March 30, 1863

"It is the duty of nations, as well as of men, to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God, to confess their sins and transgressions, in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the LORD." ----Abraham Lincoln

Read the complete proclamation here.

Miss California: "I wouldn't change a thing."

Carrie Prejean took a Biblical stand on gay marriage which probably cost her the Miss USA title.

I believe more and more Christians will be tested on their Biblical stands.

My stand is on the Word of God. Where is your stand?

"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."

Matthew 10:28 (NIV)

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Sarah Palin's Right-to-Life Speech in Evansville, IN

Last night Gov. Sarah Palin (R-Alaska) spoke at the Vanderburgh County Right to Life fundraising dinner in Evansville, Ind. Read about in here.

Gov. Palin spoke from the heart about the difficult decision she made to give her baby, Trig, the right to live. I wonder how many babys like Trig will be born because of Sarah's stand? Where do you stand?

"So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them."

Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

Easter Video

My wife and I attended the Easter Service at Eastview Christian Church in Normal, Illinois with some members of our family. Following is an awesome video that was played at the beginning of the service. Once you open the link, click on the right arrow to start the video.

Eastview Easter Video.

Jesus is Alive

Hallelujah! He's Alive!

Hot Cross Buns - A True Story of God's Love

My grand-daughter came to our home today to visit. I was downstairs in my usual place ready to watch my favorite news program. Then a heard a high pitched tone. I rushed upstairs and found my grand-daughter playing "Hot Cross Buns" on her new recorder. She was excited because she had just joined the recorder band at her elementary school. A shiver went up my spine.

Earlier in the day, my wife and I were standing in line at our favorite breakfast place. While waiting, we chatted with a wonderful elderly frail gentleman that we knew. He had once been my teacher. As my elderly teacher was about to order, his eyes fixed on a lone hot cross bun resting on some crumbs atop a display that obviously earlier had been filled with this delightful treat. His finger was shaking as he pointed to it and said: "I think I'll take one".

This earlier experience and hearing Hot Cross Buns being played on the recorder, led me to do some research on the Internet. This is what I found.

"It is traditional to eat warm 'hot cross buns' on Good Friday. Hot Cross Buns with their combination of spicy, sweet and fruity flavours have long been an Easter tradition." Read about them here.

God is so good, that he brought me His message through a "teacher", a child and a "recorder".

May the peace of Christ be with you also; today and always. Do I smell something baking in the oven?

"Hot cross buns, Hot cross buns, One a penny, two a penny, Hot cross buns."

Rick Warren on Cavuto

Pastor Warren speaks to embyonic stem cell research near the end. Great interview.

Many Applaud the Spread of Gay Marriage to Iowa

It was reported today that the Iowa Supreme Court overturned a state law that defined marriage as a union between a man and woman. Iowa is the third state where gays can marry. Many applaud the court decision. Read about it here.

Several states have already permit "civil unions", which are essentially gay marriages with a different name. The old saying applies: "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet".

Even Christian churches can't seem to agree how to handle gay marriages. Some will conduct "marriage" ceremonies. Some won't. A third group will have a ceremony to "bless" the relationship. This third group sees this as a good compromise.

Those that oppose gay marriage on Biblical grounds or legal grounds are called "homophobes". A recent example of this is when Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) called Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia a homophobe : "I wouldn't want it (a gay marriage issue) to go to the United States Supreme Court now because that homophobe got too many votes on this current court." Read about it here.

With the current mood in the country, it's pretty sure that gay marriage will spread. That saddens me.

I believe Jesus. I take a stand for marriage between a man and a woman.

Jesus said:
"But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female.' 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one."
Mark 10:6-8 (NIV)

What about you? Are you afraid to take a stand?


You can read my previous post about gay marriage here.

UPDATE: Vermont joined three other states that allow gay marriage. Read about it here.

A Living Prayer

In 1776, Thomas Paine wrote: "These are the times that try men's souls ". How true today.

I woke up this morning and my soul was troubled. Then I went to prayer and found Psalm 73. Verses 25 and 26 spoke to my heart.

Whom have I in heaven but you?

And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail,

but God is the strength of my heart

and my portion forever. (NIV)

Then I went to read from the blog "Jolly Blogger" and found the following posted: "A Living Prayer" by Alison Krauss.

I need to remember that Jesus alone holds my hand. My prayer for you is that He will hold your hand too.


The first verse of the old Gospel song "Jesus Hold My Hand" by Albert E. Brumley tells it well.

As I travel through this pilgrim land there is a Friend who goes with me.

Leads me safely thro' the sinking sand, it is the Christ of Calvary.

-

This would be my pray'r, dear Lord, each day to help me do the best I can,

For I need Thy light to guide me day and night,

Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.

David Wilkerson's Urgent Message

Rev. David Wilkerson recently sent out an urgent message to those on his mailing list. He also made several posts on this. Read them here and here.

David Wilkerson wrote the book The Cross and the Switchblade which was made into a movie starring Pat Boone. He is the founder of Times Square Church in New York City, Teen Challenge and World Challenge. He is an amazing man - but controversial. Read about him here and here.

Wilkerson's bottom line is to have faith in God to get through these times. He has preached on Habakkuk 2:4 about this. You can read that sermon here.

I don't know what to make about all this. I am watching. Recently I posted about my feelings here.

John Piper offers a caution to Wilkerson's warning that should be considered. You can read his commentary titled "Testing David Wilkerson’s Prophecy" here.

Judge for yourself. Comment on this post if you want.

Never Again: The Slippery Slope to Eugenics

Many believe that abortion, euthanasia, withholding medical care, creating designer babies and cloning are leading us on a slippery slope towards eugenics.

The extreme of eugenics happened in Nazi Germany where the "so called" weak and inferior were eliminated. The horror was not limited to the Jews.

"Beginning in 1940, thousands of Germans taken from old age homes, mental institutions and other custodial facilities were systematically gassed. Between 50,000 and 100,000 were eventually killed."

The above quote was taken from an article about the history of eugenics by Edwin Black. You can read it here on George Mason University’s History News Network. Warning - this article is disturbing.

Some fear that the new "stimulus" law pushes the United States further down the slippery slope towards eugenics. Betsy McCaughey wrote an excellent article on the stimulus bill that would lead one to believe that their fears are warranted. One quote has chilling overtones.

"The Federal Council [created by the stimulus law] is modeled after a U.K. board discussed in Daschle’s book. This board approves or rejects treatments using a formula that divides the cost of the treatment by the number of years the patient is likely to benefit. Treatments for younger patients are more often approved than treatments for diseases that affect the elderly, such as osteoporosis."

You can read the full article on Bloomberg.com here.

There is an excellent movie by Ben Stein titled "Expelled" that relates to all this. Click here for information on the movie. Run, don't walk, to get a DVD of the movie; watch it and share it!

Many Jews, Christians and others have been ringing alarm bells for years about this. Is anyone listening?


Update - The state of Washington joined Oregon by legalizing euthanasia that starts March 5. Read about it here.

Valentines Day

In a few days it will be Valentines Day and husbands will be rushing around to get there wife’s cards, flowers, chocolates and stuffed animals with hearts. And a few lucky ones will be getting something that sparkles.

Men we need to remember that even though Valentines Day is once a year we should be reminded what it says in Ephesians 5:25-28 (NIV) Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. And in Colossians 3:19(NIV) Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Guy’s we need to treat our wives like it is Valentines Day everyday.

Also we are reminded in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5(NIV) Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

So husbands when ever you get the chance just go up to your wife give her a hug and tell her you love her. She will ask what you did but just tell her it’s because she is your wife and you love her.

Happy Valentines Day

Inauguration day

I subscribe to the news feed on Biblegateway.com, it's the verse of the day. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”- James 1:2-3. How appropriate to get this verse on this inauguration day. I feel that we will have many trials that will test our faith but as long as we believe and stay true to "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."- John 14:6 we will be alright.

Romans and Poe’s Annabel Lee

One of my favorite poems is Edgar Allan Poe’s Annabel Lee. I don’t know a lot about about Poe, but I have read a few of his works. He definitely seems like an odd, potentially vulgar character, but his appeal and talent is recognizable and his works offer several redeeming qualities. One of the reasons I like this poem so much is that it reminds me of a favorite Bible passage.

The highlight of the poem is found in the 5th stanza:
And neither the angels in heaven above,

Nor the demons down under the sea,

Can ever dissever my soul from the soul

Of the beautiful Annabel Lee.

Poe stresses that death and the supernatural cannot separate him from the love of his Annabel Lee. This section of the poem closely parallels Romans 8:38-39:
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Apostle Paul writes that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ. It’s interesting to note that Poe was baptized in the Episcopal Church as a 3 year old by his foster father, John Allan. This Romans scripture is often cited in Episcopalian funeral services. It’s likely that Poe was familiar with this passage and allowed it to have some level of influence on his writing.

The poem concludes in the 6th and final stanza as follows:
For the moon never beams without bringing me dreams
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And the stars never rise but I see the bright eyes
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side
Of my darling, my darling, my life and my bride,
In her sepulchre there by the sea-
In her tomb by the side of the sea.

Annabel Lee’s tomb by the sea was her final resting place. Conversely, death could not contain Jesus and he was resurrected, defeating death and the power of sin. Our love for our wives can be so incredibly strong and fill us with great force. However, the love of woman can never equal the love of God. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever and as devoted followers of Christ, who have submitted to Him and allow Him to both define and direct us, we cannot be separated from His love.

(special thanks to Dr. Thomas W. Buchanan for sharing his library of resources…)

Our Help Comes From The Lord

Two weeks ago while in church I was fervently praying that God would intervene to straighten out our twisted and hurting world. A still small voice kept saying: "Watch me work."

I prayed because the times are scary. The economy is sinking and politicians don't seem to know what to do about it. Jesus and Biblical truth are being mocked. Terrorists seem to have the nations locked in fear. Even as I write this, news is coming about charges of corruption by a top government official. The question is being asked: "Is there any help out there?"

Today I found confirmation in Psalm 46 of what that still small voice was telling me. Believers can take heart. God's Word confirms that our help comes from the Lord.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

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"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

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Believers, watch Him work.

Newsweek on Gay Marriage - A Response

Marriage and Biblical truth is under attack as never before.

Check out this excellent response to a recent Newsweek article by Albert Mohler here.

I pray more Christians, like Mohler, will study the Bible and speak out when Scripture is twisted to fit a political agenda.

So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:16 (NIV)

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Are you hot, cold or lukewarm?

Gay Marriage - Where Do You Stand?

Some things to think about.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground." Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV)

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"But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female. 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one. Mark 10:6-8 (NIV)

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Do you believe the Bible? Do you believe Jesus? Where do you stand?

God Is in Control

The election is over. Some are happy and some are disappointed. Nevertheless, one thing is sure - God is in control.

"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change..." Psalm 46:1-2(a) (NASB)

It is clear many have turned their backs on God and this is the reason the election turned out the way it did. However, the Bible says that God will not be mocked.

"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap." Galatians 6:7 (NASB)

Prayer for our country is needed more than ever. American needs a revival.

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)

Intentions of Eternity – A Timeless Story, Seven Years Old

I woke up at 6am this morning, a good hour earlier than usual, and made it to Panera by 6:45am. We’ve started a new monthly get-together called Open Mic Mornings. Every month, we meet up, share coffee and bagels, and hear from a speaker on an eternal topic. Speakers have ranged from local business leaders, to Christian friends, to area Ministry leaders.

This morning, we were blessed by the presence of a local Salvation Army leader named Tom, who fittingly shared his experiences at Ground zero, seven years ago. The highlight of his story for me was his relationship with a firefighter named Mike, and I feel compelled to share it here.

Early one morning in the days after September 11th, the firefighter woke up, dressed for work, went into his closet and prepared his 9mm pistol with the full intention of taking his own life. Something made him stop... He put the gun away, and reported for duty at ground zero. He sought out and approached Tom and told him he had to talk. Mike went on to relay his story of guilt and despair.

On the morning of September 11th, Mike’s fire company responded to the World Trade Center and Mike was driving the truck. They were early responders and quickly realized the prime location of their vehicle’s parking spot was becoming more in demand for rescue efforts, so Mike’s commander asked him to move the truck a few blocks down. Mike complied, and just after he parked the vehicle the first building collapsed and killed every other person in his fire company…

“Why me”? Mike asked Tom, who was serving as Chaplain. Tom could only say that God must have a plan for Mike that wasn’t yet finished. Through Tom’s guidance, Mike accepted Christ as his savior a few days later, and just like that his eternal destiny changed. He felt compelled to become a Chaplain in the New York Fire Department and accomplished that goal by 2004, continuing his life’s transformation.

What an awesome experience, an incredible relationship, and an amazing outcome. Satan intended for Mike’s life to be ruined. God had a different plan.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Gen. 50:20 NIV)

The tremendous change in perspective that 9/11 brought was amazing. For a period of time, (a few days, months, or hopefully the full seven years) everyone had a new found clarity in life. People realized that relationships were more important than task lists and family was more important than careers. Satan intended this act of terrorism for harm, but in many ways God used it to open people’s eyes to eternity and what really matters…

In this fallen, wicked world, we know that we will have troubles (John 16:33). We also know that somehow, we should consider it pure joy when we face trials (James 1:1-2) because we will be made better for it (1 Peter 4:12-14), and God is great at using our trials for good, His good and perfect plans.

We can take great encouragement knowing that God is moving in many lives, like Tom’s and Mike’s, and he clearly intends great things with our lives as well.

Barack Obama's Gaffe on Life at Saddleback Civil Forum

In last night's forum at the Saddleback Civil Forum, Barack Obama made a huge gaffe is his response to Pastor Rick Warren's question about abortion.

Pastor Warren asked:

"AT WHAT POINT DOES A 'BABY' (emphasis added) GET HUMAN RIGHTS IN YOUR VIEW?"

Obama stumbled around and answered in part:

"IT FROM A THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE OR A SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVE, ANSWERING THAT QUESTION WITH SPECIFICITY, YOU KNOW, IS ABOVE MY PAY GRADE."

Incredulously, Obama did not challenge Warren's use of the word "baby" in his question. Obama bought into the assumption that a "baby" was being talked about. He then said he was in favor of "choice" (aka abortion).

Thus, according to Obama, a "baby" by "choice" can be aborted.It is key in the abortion debate, as far as the pro-abortion people are concerned, that a "fetus", not a "baby", can be aborted.

Warren "loaded" the question and Obama took the bait.

You can read the full transcript of the forum here.

The Context of Reality

Life is tough. How’s that for some profound wisdom. Many people consider this site to be a great source of profound wisdom (ok maybe just one person…), but that may not be the case today. All around us, people are failing, I’ve failed, bad decisions are being made. People let each other down and relationships are strained. There’s pain, there’s suffering, broken hearts and broken homes.

Sometimes Christians become consumed by the wickedness of our world and give up or backslide. Now I love the name Luke, but luke-warm is not a good temperature to be when it comes to Eternity.

Thank God, quite literally, that He hasn’t left us empty handed. The Bible is clearly the best book ever written, easily the best selling, and hands down the most historically accurate document known to man.

In Romans (12:2) the Bible tells us, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” And in Ephesians (6:12) we see that, “…our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

How’s that for a little perspective? Rulers, Authorities, powers, spiritual forces…. That sounds like some stiff competition. But if we’ve submitted our lives to Christ we know that we have the ultimate victory in Him. Many people, even life-long Christians struggle with accepting the reality of life, of Eternity. But struggling doesn’t mean giving up and accepting doubt as truth. We can search the scriptures, rely on our Christian brothers and sisters, and ask God for what we lack. “But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6). I love that quote. My wife painted that on a wall in our house. I don’t want to be like a wave, back and forth, back and forth, pulled around all day by the moon. ...We need the reminder.

In Hebrews (10:39) we see that, “We are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved”. That one’s not painted anywhere in our home, but its definitely ingrained in my mind...

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me.” (John 14:6) That is reality. That is the context of life, our lives. There are only two ways to respond that…

I don’t always understand it, but life is tough for a reason. The things that seem like overwhelming hardships are often not that big of a deal and we just need a little perspective to see whether or not this will really matter in a hundred years (let alone Eternity…). “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1:2-3).

We are part of something greater. Each day God will show us that more and more, if we seek Him. Our focus is not on the failure in life, not on the pain and suffering in this wicked world. Rather by choosing to focus on Eternity, the amazing gift of life, and the beauty of God’s creation all around us, we can live in a new way and experience the fullness of life.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.” (Php 4:8)

Everyone has a story

We are currently doing a study at church entitled Engage. It goes along with a book written by Bill Hybels called “Just Walk Across the Room”. This weeks study had us write and share our faith story with our small group. So I thought I would share my story with you.

"I have always believed in God. My parents would take me to church when I was young and they had me sprinkled in a Lutheran church. As I got older we stopped going to church. After my grandfather died, I was mad at God. Why did he have to die? I went through a time where I felt as long as I believed in God; I didn’t need to go to church.. I was someone that would attend on Easter and Christmas and feel like that should account for something. Then I started to come to Eastview. After attending a few months I just didn’t want to miss a Sunday. I looked forward to hearing Mike or Gary speak. Mike baptized me on Easter Sunday of 2006 and I was just overwhelmed. I felt like things were going to start to get better in my life but my wife started making some bad choices in life by choosing an alternative life style and we ended up getting divorced. This was a difficult time for me and once again I was asking God why? But unlike when my grandfather passed away I had my friends at Eastview along with my brother-in-law John, who has been my main inspiration in my spiritual walk, to help me in my faith. I have been a member at Eastview for almost two years and I am so glad God opened the door so I could walk in."

The Unbecoming Greatness

I’m the type of guy who likes to plan. Don’t get me wrong, I’m far too lazy to be a control freak. But I love to spend time mapping out the calendar and planning the budget. However, I’ve learned the hard way that my plans often fall flat in failure.

When I pursue things that are solely my own plans, and they conflict with God’s will for my life, failure is the only possibility. I’ve found that true in my life, time and time again.

When I graduated from college I moved to Georgia and planned for my girlfriend to move there. I envisioned the American dream… working hard at a good job, starting a family, living a good life. However, my girlfriend didn’t like Georgia and I wasn’t living the kind of life God had planned for me there. So much for my planning abilities. Ultimately, I changed. I gave up. My girlfriend (now my wife) and I submitted our lives to Christ. We submitted our plans and dreams to Him. He moved us several states north and gave us a new life, a Church to call home and grow in, and a family. I’m overwhelmed by His blessings daily.

Only by pure submission, denial of our worldly desires for something greater, can we truly experience the awesome fullness of life. The focus of our lives shifts from ourselves to Christ.

It’s not about me. It’s not about you. We’ve been given eternal life through the undeserved Grace of God and his perfect plan in Christ. We’re being tremendously blessed as we grow closer to Him. But it’s not about us. It’s about saving the lives of others by helping them find the Grace that we’ve been given and thereby bringing glory to God. “He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:30)

Imagine Distribution Day

Today was Imagine Distribution Day at Eastview Christian Church. Imagine is a something we started last year. We have three weeks of collection. Week 1 was Imagine no child is with out and everyone brought in an unwrapped toy. Week 2 was Imagine no one is cold and everyone brought in a new coat. Finally week 3 was Imagine no one is hungry and everyone had a food box to fill along with a donation for a ham. So as I said this morning was the day that people from the area came to church to collect what they needed. When I arrived at church at 6 this morning there was already a line waiting to get in. You don't ever stop to think how blessed we are for what we have. I work security for the kids program so that is where I was for most of the day. It was nice to see all of the families come in and see our church and what we have to offer them. I felt emotional seeing all the people that had come to take part in this event. The thing that touched me the most today is when a mom came back after getting everything she needed to pick up here two kids Nicholas and Maccey. There was a craft for the kids to do, a coloring book for them and a candy cane. Nicholas had all of his stuff and his sisters’ as well so I got her another candy cane. She looked up at me and asked if she could have another so I smiled and said sure. She went over got her candy cane and came over and gave me a hug. That is the memory that is going to stick with me for a long time. I am so proud to be a member of Eastview and I hope that we can carry this outreach program we provide for Christmas into the coming year. May God bless everyone that helped out today and the families that we made a difference in. I will add to the post once I get a total number of families we were able to serve today.

Update
Check out the The Rutter Scrawl for the numbers for our day of Imagine.

Fear...

"You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that — and shudder." (James 2:19) So the demons fear God… they actually shudder in fear. Should I? Who likes fear?

Psalm 89:7 tells us, “In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.” God, the creator of the universe, of uncountable stars and sand, the numberer of the hairs on your head, clearly is awesome. He is all powerful and we better not get on His bad side. Certainly He is worthy of our fearful respect. But that’s where fear ends.

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Tim. 1:7)

Not only has God not given us the spirit of fear, but you and I have actually been commanded not to fear. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9) That’s quite a command, and quite a promise.

A perfect God wouldn’t command us to do something and not show us how to do it. “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18) In love we find an answer. If we love the Lord with all our hearts, and love our neighbors as ourselves, God will help us overcome the debilitating fear that is so common in this dark world.

Fellowship with our brothers in Christ strengthens us. We are not alone. I absolutely love the incredible friends and family that God has blessed me and my family with, great people who struggle with fear, but radiate love and courage from their relationship with Christ. There’s been tremendous change in my life and, after God’s grace, this change has largely come about from the impact of Godly friends. “Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.” (1 Peter 2:17)

Life on Earth is awesome and short. It will be filled with fear at times, but we know we win with the ultimate Victory of Christ. We will embrace God’s promises and not fear, but accept the courage and authority He gives us.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” (1 Cor. 16:13)

Courage...

We've heard it before. Since we were kids the story's been told to us. David vs. Goliath. The unknown Underdog triumphs over the giant who brought terror to the hearts of everyone.

What a great event. David the young kid, told by his brother to go back home to tend to the sheep, steps it up. With courage that could only come from God David confronts the Giant whose shield alone weighed over 15o lbs. "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." (1 Sam. 17:45)

I've never battled in a war. I’ve never seen someone who is 9 feet tall. I’m only 5’7”. Unfortunately, my Underdog status is probably all I have in common with young David.

David didn’t stand for the name of the Lord being defied. There’s tons of evil in this world. Evil wins when good people do nothing. David had intense courage. That Courage is available to us. In the Name of the Lord Almighty, which has been defied, we will take a stand.

Full text of 1 Samuel 17: 45-47:
45 David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."

Barack Obama Takes on the Christian Right - Update

Bump and Update - I made essentially the same post (see below) on the Blogger News Network. To my amazement when Google News picked it up, it had close to 900 views - the most for one of my posts. Also, many commented and most were very negative. I added my responses. However, the debate was good.

Following is one example:

Comment from seth Date: July 10, 2007, 11:26 am
The bible is nothing I want my children to read. It has the same sketchy background of all other religious books. We can recognize mythology as such, except when we believe it to be absolutely true. The Bible is disgusting, telling you to kill anyone who tries to convert you from christianity. But that’s the old testament, we skip that part. Start Thinking for yourself.

Comment from Dan Date: July 13, 2007, 3:22 pm
Seth, you may not like God, but He lives. Jesus is His son and the only way to salvation - and He lives too. I pray that the Holy Spirit will draw you and your family to the truth. I suggest you read the book “The Case for Christ”. See my June 24th comment above. God Bless.


Take a look at the BNN post and comments and add your comments there (or here) too. Click here. Thanks - Dan
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Barack Obama says that Christianity has been"hijacked" by "so-called leaders of the Christian Right". Read the story about this here.

The truth is that many liberal churches and their leaders have crafted their own brand of Christianity based on popular "feel good" values, not on the Bible.

The "so-called leaders of the Christian Right", as Obama calls them, are being maligned for being faithful to the Bible and traditional Christian values.

Liberal, "so-called leaders of the Christian Left" are generally pro-abortion, pro-gay marriage, pro-destroying living embryos for research, pro-euthanasia and against teaching intelligent design and praying in public schools.

Before I started reading and believing the Bible, I might have agreed with many of these liberal "values". But now that I actually have read and believe the Bible, I disagree with all of the same values. The Christian Right leaders didn't tell me what to believe, I merely came to agree with these leaders.

It is more accurate to say that liberal, "so-called leaders of the Christian Left", not Christian Right leaders, are trying to hijack Christianity.

If Barak Obama would look carefully at the polls, he will find that most Americans agree with the traditional values of the Christian Right. If he continues demonizing these same leaders and the voters they represent, he will soon find in the polls that his chances of becoming President are diminishing.

Opposition to the Opposites Right and Wrong

“How can anyone tell anyone else that their belief system is wrong?” “What’s right for one person, may not be for another”… These are very prevalent mindsets in our culture. On the face of it, there is great appeal in these statements. These ideas try to be loving and nonjudgmental.

What is right? What is wrong? Seems like it should be easy, but the very concept of right and wrong is totally blurred by a sea of differing opinions. Our culture would tell us that right and wrong vary per person. There is a lot of opposition to the possibility of the mere existence of absolute right and wrong. But if there is such thing as right and wrong, doesn’t that mean that there must be a way to determine the difference? Sounds like simple good judgment. Do you have a right to judge anyone? Judgment is a dirty word. If its wrong to judge, isn’t it wrong to say that it’s wrong to judge? Perhaps now I’m judging the judgers judge…

How about murder? Bestiality? Rape? Child molestation? Are these things wrong? If you agree with the idea that no one can tell anyone else that their belief system is wrong, then simple logic tells you that you can’t say that these things are wrong. That’s just wrong.

Is it loving to never tell someone they are wrong? Is it loving to sit idly by and watch a beloved friend self-destruct? There are many circumstances in my past where I could have avoided great pain and suffering if a strong person would’ve taken a stand, confronted me, and judged my actions. But I probably wouldn’t have responded if I didn’t think they had a pure motive. I would’ve rebelled further unless this necessary confrontation was done in love and with compassion.

In Matthew (22:37-40), Jesus says; “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Clearly Christ wants us to cling to love.

Loving confrontation is vital and needed in our lives. Sure confronting evil and sin didn’t make Jesus’ top two list, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore evil around us. In 1st Timothy (3:10), the bible says that church leaders, “…must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.” And Galatians 6:1 says; “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” In order to help each other grow we must gently hold each other accountable.

1 Peter 3:15 tells us, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” I think its Clear that Christ wants us to love God and love each other. It’s clear that we are to stand strong for the Eternal truth of Christ and fight evil and confront sin. If we ever want to have any impact on this world it’s so important that we take a strong stand against evil in our lives and we do so with love and compassion.

Mother's Day

This Sunday is Mother's day. A day when we tell our mom's how much we love them and how thankful we are for them.

In the office where I work, where other than my boss I am the only guy, the topic of Mothers day came up. The ladies in the office decided that Mothers day should be extended to a full week or even an entire month. After much thought on the subject I had to agree with them. I think of my mom and everything she has done for me. She is the one that taught me right from wrong, was my example of a strong work ethic, and made me who I am today. After a while you take all that for granted. That she will always be there for you.

Four years ago on the day after Mother's day my mom went into the hospital. She had congestive heart failure and the prognosis wasn’t good. Doctors started talking to me about filling out a DNR and what was best for her and her quality of life. With all this going on, I was scared and the person that would sit with me at night when I was a frightened child was laying in ICU. I wasn’t alone with all this going on. I was surrounded by friends, family and God. We all prayed that she would be ok and that she would get better. She did. The doctors didn’t have any explanation but we knew it was our faith in God that pulled her through. Our prayers were answered.

This Sunday maybe “Mother’s day” but I thank the Lord everyday for my mom.

God Bless