Is Christmas commercialized? Sure.
Does Christmas have some pagan roots? Sure.
Do Christians get so busy during the season that they forget Jesus? Sure.
Are people right when they say that we are not meant to worship a baby? Sure.
Does singing Happy Birthday to Jesus seem to trivialize His birth? Sure.
But I know this...Christmas celebrated the right way uplifts Jesus and the gospel plan of salvation. Christmas also opens doors of opportunity to help others, witness to others, and demonstrate the love of Christ, which we should do better throughout the year. Christmas, in the end, isn't a season. It's a person.
Merry Christmas!
Wikileaks
Haven't actually read Wikileaks, but it's hijacked information which compromises our gov't. and our troops. Mr. Julian Assange (if that's not Frenchy I don't know what is) stated, "The truth will win out in the end." What a bunch of baloney.
If my neighbor has some "truths" in his life (a troubled marriage, checking account numbers, e-mail lists, etc.), and I steal this information off his computer and publish it, the truth is not the issue. Theft is.
Reportedly, after his arrest, when Mr. Assange was asked by the judge for his residence, replied, "I cannot reveal that." Funny, I guess he just believes in the right of privacy for himself.
I'm through leaking. Except for the fact that I know a few secrets about some preacher friends. You wouldn't believe what.....
If my neighbor has some "truths" in his life (a troubled marriage, checking account numbers, e-mail lists, etc.), and I steal this information off his computer and publish it, the truth is not the issue. Theft is.
Reportedly, after his arrest, when Mr. Assange was asked by the judge for his residence, replied, "I cannot reveal that." Funny, I guess he just believes in the right of privacy for himself.
I'm through leaking. Except for the fact that I know a few secrets about some preacher friends. You wouldn't believe what.....
Decision Points
Just finishing the George Bush memoirs "Decision Points." I really respect Bush because he admits his mistakes as president and also clearly explains why he made some of his decisions.
Bush is clear in that protecting Americans was his top priority after 9/11. In the post 9/11 years, Bush is seldom, if ever, questioned for attacking Afghanistan but is questioned for invading Iraq. He states that Saddam had used nerve gas on the Kurds, was not cooperating with U.N. inspections, and was allowing terrorists to exist inside its borders.
Personally, I had questions about invading Iraq when we did, but reading the book caused me to think back to everyone's mindset after 9/11. My feeling was that if even 1 Al Quaeda member was in Iraq and the President wanted to use troops to exterminate the threat, then so be it. Bush is clear that different strategies should have been used to bring about quicker order.
Bush also explains Hurricane Katrina. While he admits some mistakes, the very fact that the Democratic Louisiana Governor would not authorize Bush and the federal government to take charge of the relief for days explains alot. What hypocrisy for liberals to slam Pres. Bush for not caring when Mayor Nagin and the Governor wanted to be in charge and refused troops and federal help!
Bush explains that he attempted to reign in the housing fiasco by addressing the easy loans people were receiving. Of course, when the Democrats took control of Congress in 2006, they made it even easier for people to buy houses they couldn't afford, yet somehow Bush gets the blame. Bush didn't state this, but I will. *The economy began to spiral when the Democrats took control of Congress. I don't think Pres. Bush had much to do with it.*
No President is perfect and Bush admits to this. But the book allows anyone (even a liberal) to understand why he made the decisions he did. I had almost forgotten about how much money Bush authorized to combat AIDS in Africa, which now has allowed many missionary doctors to enter and work.
"Decision Points" is a good read. Whether Pres. Bush was a good President depends on one's perspective, I guess.
Bush is clear in that protecting Americans was his top priority after 9/11. In the post 9/11 years, Bush is seldom, if ever, questioned for attacking Afghanistan but is questioned for invading Iraq. He states that Saddam had used nerve gas on the Kurds, was not cooperating with U.N. inspections, and was allowing terrorists to exist inside its borders.
Personally, I had questions about invading Iraq when we did, but reading the book caused me to think back to everyone's mindset after 9/11. My feeling was that if even 1 Al Quaeda member was in Iraq and the President wanted to use troops to exterminate the threat, then so be it. Bush is clear that different strategies should have been used to bring about quicker order.
Bush also explains Hurricane Katrina. While he admits some mistakes, the very fact that the Democratic Louisiana Governor would not authorize Bush and the federal government to take charge of the relief for days explains alot. What hypocrisy for liberals to slam Pres. Bush for not caring when Mayor Nagin and the Governor wanted to be in charge and refused troops and federal help!
Bush explains that he attempted to reign in the housing fiasco by addressing the easy loans people were receiving. Of course, when the Democrats took control of Congress in 2006, they made it even easier for people to buy houses they couldn't afford, yet somehow Bush gets the blame. Bush didn't state this, but I will. *The economy began to spiral when the Democrats took control of Congress. I don't think Pres. Bush had much to do with it.*
No President is perfect and Bush admits to this. But the book allows anyone (even a liberal) to understand why he made the decisions he did. I had almost forgotten about how much money Bush authorized to combat AIDS in Africa, which now has allowed many missionary doctors to enter and work.
"Decision Points" is a good read. Whether Pres. Bush was a good President depends on one's perspective, I guess.
One Language
Genesis 11:1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
What language was it? Hebrew?
What language was it? Hebrew?
Waiting For The Day
Zechariah 14:9 "And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one."
The Gardner Heist
Shortly after midnight on March 18, 1990, two men, disguised as police, were allowed into the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. They stated to security that there was "a problem on the grounds" and to "allow them in." Once in, they duct taped the security guards and stole art works which are today valued at $500 million dollars. That's right. $500 million dollars. One Vermeer, three Rembrandts (including 'Storm on The Sea of Galilee'), and five Degas. The missing art is just that...still missing.
There is a $5 million dollar reward for information leading to the recovery of the art. If you have any clues or ideas, just post them on the "Comments." I'll share some of the reward with you. I promise. :)
There is a $5 million dollar reward for information leading to the recovery of the art. If you have any clues or ideas, just post them on the "Comments." I'll share some of the reward with you. I promise. :)
Church By-Laws
Some churches have "by-laws" and some don't. A friend asked me about church by-laws regarding what they were, how binding were they, are they scriptural, etc.
He stated that this happened recently in a Baptist church (not ABA). The majority of a church voted to call a man to be pastor. He had been divorced years earlier and had not re-married. When the vote passed, several families who did not vote for the man informed the church that they could not vote to call him because their church by-laws from the 1950's stated that they could not call a man who had been divorced.
This caused much confusion, hard feelings and a fiery discussion about church by-laws. Any opinions? (The divorced preacher issue has been run into the ground and I think argued from every possible angle. I just used that example because it was the one presented)
Does your church have by-laws? If so, are they binding over future votes?
Just curious.
He stated that this happened recently in a Baptist church (not ABA). The majority of a church voted to call a man to be pastor. He had been divorced years earlier and had not re-married. When the vote passed, several families who did not vote for the man informed the church that they could not vote to call him because their church by-laws from the 1950's stated that they could not call a man who had been divorced.
This caused much confusion, hard feelings and a fiery discussion about church by-laws. Any opinions? (The divorced preacher issue has been run into the ground and I think argued from every possible angle. I just used that example because it was the one presented)
Does your church have by-laws? If so, are they binding over future votes?
Just curious.
Economic Meltdown?
President Obama's appointed financial committee (chaired by a Democrat) stated recently that the present and continuing debt of this country has a very predictable outcome. He stated that our country will be broke. Some say it already is broke, but we just keep printing out "hot checks" and "hot cash."
I know that God is in control and that He will be with his people. But God's people have gone through tough times throughout history. I request opinions whether you believe that we are actually heading toward economic meltdown and a drastic change in our current manner of living.
Is it silly to prepare for such a time? Not prepare as if you are in panic mode (such as just prior to Y2K), but become as self-sufficient as possible, with water and food sources readily available, and with "protection" just in case the millions who live off the government no longer receive their checks and start looking elsewhere?
Some may be hesitant to comment on this for fear of being seen as "on the fringe" or not having enough faith in God. I'm not asking you to become Nostradamus. But do you ever consider how you would take care of your family if times get tough?
For some reason, this has been on my heart quite a bit.
I know that God is in control and that He will be with his people. But God's people have gone through tough times throughout history. I request opinions whether you believe that we are actually heading toward economic meltdown and a drastic change in our current manner of living.
Is it silly to prepare for such a time? Not prepare as if you are in panic mode (such as just prior to Y2K), but become as self-sufficient as possible, with water and food sources readily available, and with "protection" just in case the millions who live off the government no longer receive their checks and start looking elsewhere?
Some may be hesitant to comment on this for fear of being seen as "on the fringe" or not having enough faith in God. I'm not asking you to become Nostradamus. But do you ever consider how you would take care of your family if times get tough?
For some reason, this has been on my heart quite a bit.
Summer Vacation
It's always good to get away for awhile. Then, of course, it's good to return home.
En route, we visited the Vicksbug battle site. Very interesting, esp. for a history teacher. Travelled to Birmingham & spent the night.
My family & I travelled to Blue Ridge, Georgia which is near the North Carolina border. We rented a mountain home with some friends of ours, Jerylin & Eric Williams and their two kids. Jerylin is a teacher. Eric is in the Air Force & has been "in the desert," as he calls it, three times and may be deployed again in the fall. So we had interesting company which is always great.
We hiked to the top of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. The next day we drove up into the Smoky Mt. National Park and hit the high point in Tennessee, called Clingman's Dome (another steep hike). The road then took us into Gatlinburg, Tennessee. On the way back to our cabin, we were treated to several great fireworks shows as it was the 4th.
The next day we tubed on the Tecoah River and had some good visiting time.
We then parted ways with the Williams' and my family & I travelled to Savannah, Georgia. We successfully avoided the horrible Atlanta traffic (which begins about 2 P.M.) and drove 3 hrs or so to Savannah, Georgia on the Atlantic coast. Savannah has a historic district about a mile square that everyone should visit. There is too much history there to fully cover.....pirates, James Oglethorpe, Robert Louis Stephenson and his book "Treasure Island", old historic homes, Chippewa Square (you know, where Forrest Gump sat on a bench with his box of chocolates)....yes I did sit there and strike my best Forrest Gump pose...and the biggest live oak trees you can imagine, with Spanish moss hanging everywhere....
The last day in Savannah we drove to Tybee Island on the Atlantic and visited the huge lighthouse there. We also toured the Pulaski Fort and took in all of its Civil War history.
After then reuniting with the Williams and spending the night at their home, we hit the road for the 12 hour slog (via I20). As we blew through Minden, Bossier, etc., I couldn't help but wonder what some of you fellows were doing :)
Of course, my TomTom somehow took us to Bass Pro Shop in Shreveport. Tracy found the pistol she is planning to buy for $40 cheaper than back home. The kid told us if we were from Texas, we couldn't buy a pistol out of state. What's up with Louisiana?
Then, home.......
*If this blog has totally bored you, sorry. It might help jog my failing memory at some point in the future. Have a great day & live with a spiritual perspective.
En route, we visited the Vicksbug battle site. Very interesting, esp. for a history teacher. Travelled to Birmingham & spent the night.
My family & I travelled to Blue Ridge, Georgia which is near the North Carolina border. We rented a mountain home with some friends of ours, Jerylin & Eric Williams and their two kids. Jerylin is a teacher. Eric is in the Air Force & has been "in the desert," as he calls it, three times and may be deployed again in the fall. So we had interesting company which is always great.
We hiked to the top of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. The next day we drove up into the Smoky Mt. National Park and hit the high point in Tennessee, called Clingman's Dome (another steep hike). The road then took us into Gatlinburg, Tennessee. On the way back to our cabin, we were treated to several great fireworks shows as it was the 4th.
The next day we tubed on the Tecoah River and had some good visiting time.
We then parted ways with the Williams' and my family & I travelled to Savannah, Georgia. We successfully avoided the horrible Atlanta traffic (which begins about 2 P.M.) and drove 3 hrs or so to Savannah, Georgia on the Atlantic coast. Savannah has a historic district about a mile square that everyone should visit. There is too much history there to fully cover.....pirates, James Oglethorpe, Robert Louis Stephenson and his book "Treasure Island", old historic homes, Chippewa Square (you know, where Forrest Gump sat on a bench with his box of chocolates)....yes I did sit there and strike my best Forrest Gump pose...and the biggest live oak trees you can imagine, with Spanish moss hanging everywhere....
The last day in Savannah we drove to Tybee Island on the Atlantic and visited the huge lighthouse there. We also toured the Pulaski Fort and took in all of its Civil War history.
After then reuniting with the Williams and spending the night at their home, we hit the road for the 12 hour slog (via I20). As we blew through Minden, Bossier, etc., I couldn't help but wonder what some of you fellows were doing :)
Of course, my TomTom somehow took us to Bass Pro Shop in Shreveport. Tracy found the pistol she is planning to buy for $40 cheaper than back home. The kid told us if we were from Texas, we couldn't buy a pistol out of state. What's up with Louisiana?
Then, home.......
*If this blog has totally bored you, sorry. It might help jog my failing memory at some point in the future. Have a great day & live with a spiritual perspective.
The Christian's Need For Reassurance
"The Christian's Need For Reassurance"
Luke 7:19-30 (John the Baptist in prison, inquiring if Jesus is the one?)
Intro. All Christians, at times, need reassurance.
Ill. Movie "Hoosiers" (Coach, as his team entered a huge basketball arena for the state championship, had his players measure the heighth of the goal...10 feet, and the distance to the free throw line, 15 feet...he reassured them by saying, "I think you will find those same measurements back in our gym at Hickory.")
-In this text, John the Baptist needed reassuring. He was the forerunner of Jesus, he was the voice of one crying in the wilderness, he was filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb, he had grown up knowing Jesus, and a short time before he had pinpointed the Messiah, "Behold, the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world."
-Yet now, in prison, after a short 6 month ministry, doubt was perhaps creeping in.
Luke 7:19 "And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?"
I.Who Needs Reassurance?
-In this case, John the Baptist...
-We often need reassurance in
A.the presence of God
B.the truths of God
C.the blessings of God
D.the promises of God
II.Why Do We Need Reassurance?
A.Because of Perilous Situations (John the Baptist was there...he had preached adultery in the palace and now his life hung in the balances)
-We live in a time of peril (II Tim.3:1-5) and we often need reassurance.
(Song: "Blessed Assurance")
B.Because of Periods of Doubt (great spiritual leaders have had times of doubt and discouragement)
1.Moses (Numbers 11:11,14,15)
2.Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:7-9)
3.Paul (II Cor.1:8)
C.Because God Is Not Acting or Doing As We Expect
-Did John feel rejected? Did he feel that no one cared about him anymore? Did he wonder if anyone would ever intercede for him? Was he perplexed?
-We can reach this point in our Christian lives as well.
III.Who Provided Reassurance?
Jesus, Luke 7:21-28
IV.The Results of Reassurance
Hebrews 10:22 "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith..."
Luke 7:19-30 (John the Baptist in prison, inquiring if Jesus is the one?)
Intro. All Christians, at times, need reassurance.
Ill. Movie "Hoosiers" (Coach, as his team entered a huge basketball arena for the state championship, had his players measure the heighth of the goal...10 feet, and the distance to the free throw line, 15 feet...he reassured them by saying, "I think you will find those same measurements back in our gym at Hickory.")
-In this text, John the Baptist needed reassuring. He was the forerunner of Jesus, he was the voice of one crying in the wilderness, he was filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb, he had grown up knowing Jesus, and a short time before he had pinpointed the Messiah, "Behold, the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world."
-Yet now, in prison, after a short 6 month ministry, doubt was perhaps creeping in.
Luke 7:19 "And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?"
I.Who Needs Reassurance?
-In this case, John the Baptist...
-We often need reassurance in
A.the presence of God
B.the truths of God
C.the blessings of God
D.the promises of God
II.Why Do We Need Reassurance?
A.Because of Perilous Situations (John the Baptist was there...he had preached adultery in the palace and now his life hung in the balances)
-We live in a time of peril (II Tim.3:1-5) and we often need reassurance.
(Song: "Blessed Assurance")
B.Because of Periods of Doubt (great spiritual leaders have had times of doubt and discouragement)
1.Moses (Numbers 11:11,14,15)
2.Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:7-9)
3.Paul (II Cor.1:8)
C.Because God Is Not Acting or Doing As We Expect
-Did John feel rejected? Did he feel that no one cared about him anymore? Did he wonder if anyone would ever intercede for him? Was he perplexed?
-We can reach this point in our Christian lives as well.
III.Who Provided Reassurance?
Jesus, Luke 7:21-28
IV.The Results of Reassurance
Hebrews 10:22 "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith..."
The Sending Church (Mission?)
Can a mission sponsor a missionary?
Let's say that a mission has a member who feels led to go on the foreign mission field. They know him personally. They want to be the "sending church" or entity that sponsors him. Can that mission sponsor the missionary?
(Please be kind in your comments)
Let's say that a mission has a member who feels led to go on the foreign mission field. They know him personally. They want to be the "sending church" or entity that sponsors him. Can that mission sponsor the missionary?
(Please be kind in your comments)
Double Standard To Israel
Several months ago, Prime Minister Netanyahu came to the United States. Our President & his administration didn't agree with Israel building an apartment complex ON THEIR LAND. The Israeli P.M. and his staff were not even offered so much as a PB&J sandwich, were told to go back to the table & discuss issues. The P.M. promptly left. Not long after, the President of Mexico comes and rants against Arizona and its immigration law. Congress claps and the Mexican President is given a state dinner.
Fast forward...Israeli soldiers board "aid ships" which have been attempting to smuggle in rockets which are fired at Israel's citizens. The soldiers are attacked and take action. Europe condemns Israel for trying to protect itself and there are protests around the world against Israel. Israel, it seems, is held to a double standard.
It is easy to see how that one day that countries will unite against Israel. I know that everything that the Israeli government does is open to scrutiny, but is the Biblical principle still in place which says: "I will bless those that bless thee, and curse those that curse thee." ???
Fast forward...Israeli soldiers board "aid ships" which have been attempting to smuggle in rockets which are fired at Israel's citizens. The soldiers are attacked and take action. Europe condemns Israel for trying to protect itself and there are protests around the world against Israel. Israel, it seems, is held to a double standard.
It is easy to see how that one day that countries will unite against Israel. I know that everything that the Israeli government does is open to scrutiny, but is the Biblical principle still in place which says: "I will bless those that bless thee, and curse those that curse thee." ???
Ever Wonder?
Ever wonder....
Why you don't see the headline "Psychic Wins The Lottery?"
Why "abbreviated" is such a long word?
When dog food is "new and improved tasting," who tests it?
Why they call what doctors do "practice?"
Why they don't build airplanes out of those "little black boxes" they are always looking for?
Why they call where you drive a "parkway," and where you park a "driveway?"
Why in baseball the pitcher's mound is 6 ft. 6 inches from home plate?
Is there something special about those 6 inches?
Why on the bag of Fritos, it says "You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside. (Is this the shoplifter's special?)
Why on most Christmas lights it states: "For outdoor or indoor use only."
(As opposed to...what?)
Why you don't see the headline "Psychic Wins The Lottery?"
Why "abbreviated" is such a long word?
When dog food is "new and improved tasting," who tests it?
Why they call what doctors do "practice?"
Why they don't build airplanes out of those "little black boxes" they are always looking for?
Why they call where you drive a "parkway," and where you park a "driveway?"
Why in baseball the pitcher's mound is 6 ft. 6 inches from home plate?
Is there something special about those 6 inches?
Why on the bag of Fritos, it says "You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside. (Is this the shoplifter's special?)
Why on most Christmas lights it states: "For outdoor or indoor use only."
(As opposed to...what?)
You might be a mountain climber
You might be a mountain climber if.....
You have more summit pictures than wedding pictures.
You've ever had icicles hanging from any part of your face.
You hear the name "Hillary" and think of Everest instead of Mrs. Clinton.
You've been arrested for climbing the county courthouse.
You introduce your girlfriend/wife as your belay partner.
Your first aid kit consists of Diamox, Dex and Morphine.
You have ever flipped a coin to see who slept in the trunk of the car.
You have ever been called down off a route by the sheriff.
You drop something at work and yell "Rock!"
You don't walk down stairs, your rappel them.
You have one of those "falling" dreams and on your way down you scope
out the cliff to see if it will go.
You have a secret journal of bagged peaks hiden somewhere in your
bedroom. Your wife calls it your “Peak Bagging List.” You call it a
“Climbing Log.”
You truly realize that the fall never killed anyone. It's that hitting the
ground part.
You have more summit pictures than wedding pictures.
You've ever had icicles hanging from any part of your face.
You hear the name "Hillary" and think of Everest instead of Mrs. Clinton.
You've been arrested for climbing the county courthouse.
You introduce your girlfriend/wife as your belay partner.
Your first aid kit consists of Diamox, Dex and Morphine.
You have ever flipped a coin to see who slept in the trunk of the car.
You have ever been called down off a route by the sheriff.
You drop something at work and yell "Rock!"
You don't walk down stairs, your rappel them.
You have one of those "falling" dreams and on your way down you scope
out the cliff to see if it will go.
You have a secret journal of bagged peaks hiden somewhere in your
bedroom. Your wife calls it your “Peak Bagging List.” You call it a
“Climbing Log.”
You truly realize that the fall never killed anyone. It's that hitting the
ground part.
Salvation
Are any of you seeing many people saved?
I realize that lost people simply don't "come to church" as they perhaps once did, either out of curiosity, church as a community event, or whatever other reason they might attend.
I'm not seeing nor am I hearing of that many professions of faith lately.
To be honest, it's discouraging.
I realize that lost people simply don't "come to church" as they perhaps once did, either out of curiosity, church as a community event, or whatever other reason they might attend.
I'm not seeing nor am I hearing of that many professions of faith lately.
To be honest, it's discouraging.
Masonic Funeral
This happened to a certain pastor and I'll relate it as briefly and accurately as possible. The pastor held a funeral service and there was to be a Masonic burial at the cemetary. While walking towards the tent at the cemetary, the pastor asked the "Master Mason" about the protocol (for instance, "Would he (the pastor) need to close with prayer?")
The "Master" said that, yes, he would call on him (the pastor) to close the service after they had performed the Masonic rituals. The pastor said that he usually made a few brief comments about the resurrection before dismissing in prayer. The "Master" simply stared him down and shook his head, indicating "No."
The pastor, of course, dismissed with one of the longest prayers of his ministry, incorporating the body as a seed, the last trump, the dead in Christ rising,etc. After saying "Amen," the pastor raised his head and looked over towards the "Master," who was definately not smiling. The Mason at the foot of the casket holding the outstretched sword wasn't smiling either.
Many people just don't realize the things that go on "behind the scenes"
in the ministry.
The "Master" said that, yes, he would call on him (the pastor) to close the service after they had performed the Masonic rituals. The pastor said that he usually made a few brief comments about the resurrection before dismissing in prayer. The "Master" simply stared him down and shook his head, indicating "No."
The pastor, of course, dismissed with one of the longest prayers of his ministry, incorporating the body as a seed, the last trump, the dead in Christ rising,etc. After saying "Amen," the pastor raised his head and looked over towards the "Master," who was definately not smiling. The Mason at the foot of the casket holding the outstretched sword wasn't smiling either.
Many people just don't realize the things that go on "behind the scenes"
in the ministry.
Cowboy Church
Well, we have a Cowboy Church now in Huntington. I don't know how it started or who the pastor is. A typical pattern revealed itself in just a few weeks: a new paint job on a building, a sign (Living Waters Cowboy Church), the black deco of a horse and a cowboy with his hat off kneeling at a cross, and then, a full parking lot (with mostly pick-ups btw).
What does God think of "specialty churches?" How about a Sports Church? What about a Hunting Church? A Fishing Church? A Computer Church?
Doesn't the "specialty" take away from the One who is to be the focus...Jesus?
What does God think of "specialty churches?" How about a Sports Church? What about a Hunting Church? A Fishing Church? A Computer Church?
Doesn't the "specialty" take away from the One who is to be the focus...Jesus?
Revival
Psalm 85:6 "Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?"
I am privileged to pastor a wonderful church (Ora MBC) that is supportive of evangelism / revival opportunities that the Lord allows me.
Looking forward to preaching at First Baptist Church Wells (April 22-25), All The Kings Men (April 30), Sulphur Springs BC Zavalla (May 15), and Grapeland MBC (June 6-10).
At Ora, we will be having revival services May 16-19 with Bro. Davy Hobson preaching.
Revival services can be scheduled, but revival will not happen unless we humble ourselves before the Lord and truly repent and seek his face. I pray God gives me the strength and leadership of the Spirit to preach His Word like never before.
I know that I will give account of everything said from the pulpit.
I have two quotes written in my Bible that I occassionally look at. One says, "I preach as never sure to preach again; and as a dying man to dying men." I read that and am reminded that preachnig should never become commonplace.
Another says, "There is freedom in an identity that is anchored in a place beyond all human praise and blame." I read that and realize that Christ is the anchor of my soul and the praise or criticism of man shouldn't affect me at all.
I pray for my preacher brethren regularly, some whom I know well, others who I barely know. I hope that you will pray for me also.
I am privileged to pastor a wonderful church (Ora MBC) that is supportive of evangelism / revival opportunities that the Lord allows me.
Looking forward to preaching at First Baptist Church Wells (April 22-25), All The Kings Men (April 30), Sulphur Springs BC Zavalla (May 15), and Grapeland MBC (June 6-10).
At Ora, we will be having revival services May 16-19 with Bro. Davy Hobson preaching.
Revival services can be scheduled, but revival will not happen unless we humble ourselves before the Lord and truly repent and seek his face. I pray God gives me the strength and leadership of the Spirit to preach His Word like never before.
I know that I will give account of everything said from the pulpit.
I have two quotes written in my Bible that I occassionally look at. One says, "I preach as never sure to preach again; and as a dying man to dying men." I read that and am reminded that preachnig should never become commonplace.
Another says, "There is freedom in an identity that is anchored in a place beyond all human praise and blame." I read that and realize that Christ is the anchor of my soul and the praise or criticism of man shouldn't affect me at all.
I pray for my preacher brethren regularly, some whom I know well, others who I barely know. I hope that you will pray for me also.
Send Your Resume
As more and more churches publicize their need of a pastor, many state, "Send your resume to...."
I understand that a resume can provide some basic information about a person, but doesn't the "resume requirement" remind you of a "job."
I understand that a resume can provide some basic information about a person, but doesn't the "resume requirement" remind you of a "job."
Christian Aid Organizations
Jim Poindexter is a member of an ABA church. He knows that the local church is the means by which the gospel should be preached and God's kingdom work advanced on the earth. But Mr. Poindexter also sees that there are places and situations where church missionaries cannot go for a number of reasons. Therefore, he gives a little money here and there to Christian aid organizations such as World Vision and Samaritan's Purse. Mr. Poindexter also sponsors a kid (you know, the ones shown on TV who need help) and he and his family package a few Operation Christmas Child gifts each year which are sent in other areas of the world with the gospel included in the gift.
Is Mr. Poindexter off base? Should he limit his giving/support to his local church only?
Is Mr. Poindexter off base? Should he limit his giving/support to his local church only?
Attention Government
Attention Government....
The 10th amendment reads as follows:
"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people"
The 10th amendment affirms the sovereignty of the states and makes it clear that the federal government's powers are limited to those granted in the Constitution.
The federal government is attempting to control health care. Health care is not mentioned in the Constitution, therefore that right is reserved to the states and individuals (which would include businesses and the private sector).
The federal government attempts to control education (ex.No Child Left Behind). Education is not mentioned in the Constitution, therefore, that right falls to the states (public schools) and to individuals (private schools).
Lately, the federal government attempts to control EVERYTHING (student loans, cars, businesses, energy and energy usage, education, health care.....)
I would love to consider myself first, a Christian, and then, a loyal American. But when American government no longer represents the Constitution upon which our country is founded, am I obligated to be loyal?
America seems to be drifting away, and becoming,....unAmerican.
The 10th amendment reads as follows:
"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people"
The 10th amendment affirms the sovereignty of the states and makes it clear that the federal government's powers are limited to those granted in the Constitution.
The federal government is attempting to control health care. Health care is not mentioned in the Constitution, therefore that right is reserved to the states and individuals (which would include businesses and the private sector).
The federal government attempts to control education (ex.No Child Left Behind). Education is not mentioned in the Constitution, therefore, that right falls to the states (public schools) and to individuals (private schools).
Lately, the federal government attempts to control EVERYTHING (student loans, cars, businesses, energy and energy usage, education, health care.....)
I would love to consider myself first, a Christian, and then, a loyal American. But when American government no longer represents the Constitution upon which our country is founded, am I obligated to be loyal?
America seems to be drifting away, and becoming,....unAmerican.
Texas / Louisiana Preachers
Somebody told me that Texas preachers could flat outpreach Louisiana preachers.
I told him that was a mean thing to say. Even if it were true, it was mean and uncalled for. Don't you think?
I told him that was a mean thing to say. Even if it were true, it was mean and uncalled for. Don't you think?
Famous Last Words
How were the receipts today at Madison Square Garden?
~~ P. T. Barnum, entrepreneur, d. 1891
I can't sleep.
~~ James M. Barrie, author, d. 1937
Friends applaud, the comedy is finished.
~~ Ludwig van Beethoven, composer, d. March 26, 1827
I am about to -- or I am going to -- die: either expression is correct.
~~ Dominique Bouhours, French grammarian, d. 1702
Now I shall go to sleep. Goodnight.
~~ Lord George Byron, writer, d. 1824
Ay Jesus.
~~ Charles V, King of France, d. 1380
That was the best ice-cream soda I ever tasted.
~~ Lou Costello, comedian, d. March 3, 1959
Let's cool it brothers . . .
Spoken to his assassins, 3 men who shot him 16 times.
~~ Malcolm X, Black leader, d. 1966
Either that wallpaper goes, or I do.
~~ Oscar Wilde, writer, d. November 30, 1900
They couldn't hit an elephant at this dist. . . .
Killed in battle during US Civil War.
~~ General John Sedgwick, Union Commander, d. 1864
Lord help my poor soul.
~~ Edgar Allan Poe, writer, d. October 7, 1849
Well, gentlemen, you are about to see a baked Appel.
Executed in electric chair in New York.
~~ George Appel, d. 1928
How about this for a headline for tomorrow's paper? French fries.
Executed in electric chair in Oklahoma.
~~ James French, d. 1966
I did not get my Spaghetti-O's, I got spaghetti. I want the press to know this.
Executed by injection, Oklahoma.
~~ Thomas J. Grasso, d. March 20, 1995
~~ P. T. Barnum, entrepreneur, d. 1891
I can't sleep.
~~ James M. Barrie, author, d. 1937
Friends applaud, the comedy is finished.
~~ Ludwig van Beethoven, composer, d. March 26, 1827
I am about to -- or I am going to -- die: either expression is correct.
~~ Dominique Bouhours, French grammarian, d. 1702
Now I shall go to sleep. Goodnight.
~~ Lord George Byron, writer, d. 1824
Ay Jesus.
~~ Charles V, King of France, d. 1380
That was the best ice-cream soda I ever tasted.
~~ Lou Costello, comedian, d. March 3, 1959
Let's cool it brothers . . .
Spoken to his assassins, 3 men who shot him 16 times.
~~ Malcolm X, Black leader, d. 1966
Either that wallpaper goes, or I do.
~~ Oscar Wilde, writer, d. November 30, 1900
They couldn't hit an elephant at this dist. . . .
Killed in battle during US Civil War.
~~ General John Sedgwick, Union Commander, d. 1864
Lord help my poor soul.
~~ Edgar Allan Poe, writer, d. October 7, 1849
Well, gentlemen, you are about to see a baked Appel.
Executed in electric chair in New York.
~~ George Appel, d. 1928
How about this for a headline for tomorrow's paper? French fries.
Executed in electric chair in Oklahoma.
~~ James French, d. 1966
I did not get my Spaghetti-O's, I got spaghetti. I want the press to know this.
Executed by injection, Oklahoma.
~~ Thomas J. Grasso, d. March 20, 1995
Summer Climbs
As the weather improves, I can't help but plan for summer. As a teacher, I have a little extra time in the summer. As a preacher, I already have VBS, church camp, and several revivals on schedule. That leaves me with a week here or there to plan a mountain climb.
This summer, I'd love to climb :
Wheeler Peak (highest point in New Mexico, 13,161 ft and
then travel north to Blanca Peak (4th highest peak in Colorado, 14,345 ft,)
Wheeler Peak is near Taos and would be a one day slog, but the summit views look great in pictures. Blanca Peak would be more challenging due to altitude and it being a 16 mile round trip (requiring two tent nights).
Michael "I'd rather sun in the Phillipines" Reese just can't seem to make it this time. Friends from two summers ago probably won't be able to take off work. My wife told me I can't take any of my children anymore because of their previous bouts with altitude sickness and one almost doing a "Peter Pan" off a shelf path in Colorado.
So now I look for another partner in crime. There are several young guys at Ora MBC who say they "might want to try it." Or, perhaps there is some ABA preacher out there who wants to take off, do something different, and get high (legally)!
If interested, let me know something.
This summer, I'd love to climb :
Wheeler Peak (highest point in New Mexico, 13,161 ft and
then travel north to Blanca Peak (4th highest peak in Colorado, 14,345 ft,)
Wheeler Peak is near Taos and would be a one day slog, but the summit views look great in pictures. Blanca Peak would be more challenging due to altitude and it being a 16 mile round trip (requiring two tent nights).
Michael "I'd rather sun in the Phillipines" Reese just can't seem to make it this time. Friends from two summers ago probably won't be able to take off work. My wife told me I can't take any of my children anymore because of their previous bouts with altitude sickness and one almost doing a "Peter Pan" off a shelf path in Colorado.
So now I look for another partner in crime. There are several young guys at Ora MBC who say they "might want to try it." Or, perhaps there is some ABA preacher out there who wants to take off, do something different, and get high (legally)!
If interested, let me know something.
Tiger The Buddhist
So...Tiger Wooods is a Buddhist. He admitted in his press conference that he had strayed away from Buddhism which his mother had taught him as a child. But now he was going back to Buddhism and trying to find balance again in his life.
I have read about and studied Buddhism some. It perhaps can help a person with restraint and impulse control, as Tiger states. But it cannot give eternal life.
I felt a tinge of sadness for him and everyone else who has been deceived by false religion. I pray Tiger accepts Jesus as Savior.
I have read about and studied Buddhism some. It perhaps can help a person with restraint and impulse control, as Tiger states. But it cannot give eternal life.
I felt a tinge of sadness for him and everyone else who has been deceived by false religion. I pray Tiger accepts Jesus as Savior.
When Christians Get Tattoos
We live in a day when even some Christians go for tattoos, body piercings, etc.
Some of the "Christian tattoos" are of crosses, anchors and so forth.
I am asking seriously...What do you say when someone shows you their new cross tattoo and you know they are a professed Christian?
"Hey... nice tat?"
"Hey man, the book of Deuteronomy speaks against body markings. Didn't you know that?"
Or something in between.
You may think this a sily post but tattoos continue to explode in popularity and even among professed Christians.
Some of the "Christian tattoos" are of crosses, anchors and so forth.
I am asking seriously...What do you say when someone shows you their new cross tattoo and you know they are a professed Christian?
"Hey... nice tat?"
"Hey man, the book of Deuteronomy speaks against body markings. Didn't you know that?"
Or something in between.
You may think this a sily post but tattoos continue to explode in popularity and even among professed Christians.
The Temple Rebuilt?????
Our ABA Sunday School literature states that the Anti-Christ will set himself up in the rebuilt Temple (II Thess. 2:4). Reading a blog by Bro. Tom McElmurry, however, has led me to believe that this will not happen.
II Thess. 2:4 "...he as God sitteth in the Temple (naos) of God, shewing himself that he is God."
Temple (naos) is not a literal temple but the same "temple" that is used in the verse "Know ye not that your body is the temple (naos) of the Holy Ghost?"
If II Thess. 2:4 was speaking of a literal temple, Bro. McElmurry states that the Greek word (hieron) would have been used for a literal temple. Therefore, the argument can be made that the Anti-Christ sets himself up in people's hearts, not in a literal temple. Make sense?? If Bro. McElmurry is correct, then our literature, as well as some commentaries, miss the mark on this one.
P.S. Not posting this to open a door for slamming our writers. But what is your opinion of the prophecy lessons this quarter???
II Thess. 2:4 "...he as God sitteth in the Temple (naos) of God, shewing himself that he is God."
Temple (naos) is not a literal temple but the same "temple" that is used in the verse "Know ye not that your body is the temple (naos) of the Holy Ghost?"
If II Thess. 2:4 was speaking of a literal temple, Bro. McElmurry states that the Greek word (hieron) would have been used for a literal temple. Therefore, the argument can be made that the Anti-Christ sets himself up in people's hearts, not in a literal temple. Make sense?? If Bro. McElmurry is correct, then our literature, as well as some commentaries, miss the mark on this one.
P.S. Not posting this to open a door for slamming our writers. But what is your opinion of the prophecy lessons this quarter???
Annointing With Oil
I preached a revival several years ago at an "independent" Baptist church in Nacogdoches, Tx. Several bottles of oil sat around the flat part of the pulpit. I asked about it & the pastor said that they occassionally used it on someone who really needed prayer.
I have never felt led to do that nor is it practiced in any other churches that I know of. However, based on James 5:14,15, what argument could you make against it except something like, "That's weird!"
I have never felt led to do that nor is it practiced in any other churches that I know of. However, based on James 5:14,15, what argument could you make against it except something like, "That's weird!"
Crazy Things
1.Looking up the elevator shaft to see if it's coming down (that's crazy)
2.Someone saying "I'm going to kill you dead." (that's crazy....how else can you kill someone)
3.Mountain climbers cutting their toothbrush in half to save on weight (that's crazy)
4.Saying "plastic silverware" (that's crazy)
5.Calling what doctors do "practice" (that's crazy)
6.Danny Bowman (that's crazy....love you brother)
7.Only singing three verses of Amazing Grace (that's crazy)
8.Student telling me that his dog pooped on his homework and he had to throw it away (that's crazy...and this week's latest excuse)
9.Student telling me that he cannot do his "Living Biography" assignment on a family member because his entire family is in hiding (that's crazy...and a recent excuse).
10.Sitting during the song "Stand Up For Jesus" (that's crazy)
11.Thinking the economy is as bad as it was in the Great Depression, when Starbucks is still in business (that's crazy)
12.Stealing tires from a tire dealership and rolling them in the snow to your college dorm room (that's crazy...happened at Angelina Jr. College years ago)
13.Rejecting Jesus (that's crazy)
You are welcome to comment or add your "crazy things." God bless.
2.Someone saying "I'm going to kill you dead." (that's crazy....how else can you kill someone)
3.Mountain climbers cutting their toothbrush in half to save on weight (that's crazy)
4.Saying "plastic silverware" (that's crazy)
5.Calling what doctors do "practice" (that's crazy)
6.Danny Bowman (that's crazy....love you brother)
7.Only singing three verses of Amazing Grace (that's crazy)
8.Student telling me that his dog pooped on his homework and he had to throw it away (that's crazy...and this week's latest excuse)
9.Student telling me that he cannot do his "Living Biography" assignment on a family member because his entire family is in hiding (that's crazy...and a recent excuse).
10.Sitting during the song "Stand Up For Jesus" (that's crazy)
11.Thinking the economy is as bad as it was in the Great Depression, when Starbucks is still in business (that's crazy)
12.Stealing tires from a tire dealership and rolling them in the snow to your college dorm room (that's crazy...happened at Angelina Jr. College years ago)
13.Rejecting Jesus (that's crazy)
You are welcome to comment or add your "crazy things." God bless.
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