Last Penny

Why So Many Questions?

2008-01-20T10:36:00.000-08:00

Have you ever considered the absolute necessity of questions? We ask for many reasons --- to get instructions, to get clarification on a statement, to make conversation, to conduct an interview, to expose a lie and get at the truth, to confirm intentions --- and much more.

Some people don't ask questions because they think that they will be regarded as stupid, that they should already know the answer. Others will often not ask, if they consider it to be prying or none of their business. Questions are not only a great source of information-gathering, but are required to start a conversation, or to keep it going.

To be sure there are times when silence is golden, when presence is more powerful than words, but asking questions is our way of showing that we care, that we are taking an active role in relating to those around us. Unlike a reporter, we don't have to come armed with specific questions, geared to a certain subject. Questions should flow as easily as conversation as we share each others' lives.

I've been told by some folks that it is difficult to ask questions. I think that may be because they are focusing on the questions themselves --- will they be dumb? will they be probing or intrusive? will they prompt questions in response, questions they can't answer?

The key is to focus on the person or conversation. How often do we ask, "How are you doing?" when we actually don't care how someone is doing? When someone comes in your "space" (or you invade theirs), one of two things should happen. If they say something, you may need to ask a question to understand what they are saying, or to get additional information on the subject. If they don't begin the conversation, then you can inquire as to how they are doing or feeling, what they have been doing, how their work is going, etc.. If they answer "fine," then the question should be more specific.

Responding to the answer is also important, because a string of successive questions can be intimidating. If the discussion turns to religion, philosophy or politics, then you should acknowledge the last statement and find something positive about it, even if you are needing to disagree with it. Questions are a great way to make sure that you don't misunderstand where a person is coming from.

You would be amazed at how well a conversation can go if you use it to increase your knowledge. When you do so, you begin to accumulate a growing subject matter for future encounters.

I believe that we have been put here to interact with our fellow humans. The success of our journey is predicated on our ability to not only get along, but to become one. Only then can we see ourselves as the true family of God.

True Colors

2007-12-06T05:47:00.000-08:00

We are at the end of Autumn in our region, a season of beauty that too quickly fades into the chilly deadness of winter. Each season has its highlights of splendor, but Autumn has a special attraction in that it displays a final burst of glory preceding a long sleep, only to awaken into the new morning of spring.

I am blessed to live in a mountainous area with so many varieties of trees, each having a leaf that turns a unique, brilliant color that blends so well with that of its neighbor. Before this seasonal show begins, the hills and mountains are carpeted with various shades of green, looking luxurious against the blue sky.

While being pleasant to the eye, the leaves are hard at work, making food for the tree. Through the process of photosynthesis the leaf gets its green color from chlorophyll. As the chlorophyll is depleted, the original colors underneath are more noticeable.

Lives are like leaves. People are initially received based upon their appearance, mannerisms and behavior. Over time, and under stress, their true colors will surface. The character reveals what the heart has hidden.
Like chlorophyll, there are times when our surface should mask what’s going on inside. The Bible says to clean yourself up, comb your hair and don’t grimace when you are fasting, because the fasting is personal between you and God. It also says that you are to consider others ahead of yourself. This means not burdening them with your problems, unless they are willing and able to listen sincerely and give good counsel.

Unlike leaves, however, most times our true colors aren’t beautiful. Stress can bring to the surface what is building up inside, be it hurt or anger, sadness or depression. Sometimes we feel proud or vindicated when we read someone a certain way, then their true colors reveal that we were right. The better way would be to love the person, even though our suspicions were justly founded. To be sure, suspicions are better left unsaid to start with.

God knows our makeup. He also knows our cover-ups. And his love for us is unchanging. His photosynthesis is the working of his Spirit. Jesus came to us in order to confirm God’s feelings for his creation, especially for those who are made in his image. God wants our true colors to be that which reflects his image, the image of a loving spirit. For this we were created.

2007-11-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly --- my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives.

Ecclesiastes 2:3

Life is what happens between the bookends of birth and death. Infants constantly seek attention because they are limited in ways in which to communicate their needs; they are also absorbed in the concept of focusing --- on anything.

We regard the activities of children as “playing”, when they are actually mimicking life. Everything they say or do stems from their years of observation. This gives serious consideration as to how we should behave in front of them.

The elderly spend a great amount of time reflecting on their past. They will either dwell on it, with many regrets, or smile over it, with fond memories. They also tend to give more attention to the possibility of an afterlife.

What we all seem to have difficulty with is focusing on the present. We brood over the past, due to our own mistakes, or hang onto feelings of how we were misunderstood or mistreated. On the other hand, we’re always looking ahead. To the weekend, a new job, an upcoming event, an end to a difficult task, or relief from a sickness.

We stumble through the drudgeries of the day, and in so doing, we overlook the abundant blessings that are before us. We miss opportunities to care for those around us. Sometimes the task at hand is to care for others, but we do it with resentment, because we don’t feel appreciated.

So we try to offset dull or difficult or meaningless experiences with periods of pleasure or entertainment. We look forward to them with anticipation, but often find afterward that they didn’t completely satisfy. And we are constantly seeking something better, going to the next level. This involves futile attempts at self-contentment, and can be costly.

It is acceptable to think of, and make plans for, the future. It is expected that we are to look back with fond memories, or to learn from our mistakes. But what if we were to focus on the next thing --- no matter how trivial?

Has it occurred to you how special and significant routine things are? Like tying your shoe. Or cooking from a recipe. Or mowing the grass. An Alzheimer’s patient has lost that ability. Like watching a sunrise. Or hearing birds sing. Blind or deaf people miss out on certain pleasures.

Some people only have a few days on this earth. Others have many, which, when looking back, seem like only a few. We can’t ponder and pine over wasted days gone by. Nor can we throw away today in anticipation of tomorrow. We must make the most of each day --- using all of our senses to appreciate this thing called life.

We are to also be ever conscious about those we come into contact with each day. How do they feel? What can we do for them? Do they need a listening ear, or a hug, or a piece of sound advice? Ask questions. Really listen to the answers. Ask more questions. Show that you care. Live.

A Life Lived

2007-11-06T18:29:00.000-08:00

“In this ‘season of calm weather,’ when the past has receded so far that he can behold it as in a picture, and his share in it as the history of a man who had lived and would soon die; when he can confess his faults without the bitterness of shame, both because he is humble, and because the faults themselves have dropped from him; when his good deeds look poverty-stricken in his eyes, and he would no more claim consideration for them than expect knighthood because he is no thief; when he cares little for his reputation, but much for his character --- little for what has gone beyond his control, but endlessly much for what yet remains in his will to determine; then I think, a man may do well to write his own life.”

George MacDonald, from Wilfrid Cumbermede

How many of us ever take the time to reflect on our lives and give serious thought as to its purpose? Even those who are regular churchgoers confirm to themselves each Sunday that they are to “do God’s work,” only to slip back into the same routine throughout the week --- eat, sleep, go to the job, pay the bills, raise the kids, do the laundry, mow the grass and fill the voids with some form of entertainment (TV, movies, sports, etc.).

You might be surprised to find that doing those very things is God’s work. He made us for the purpose of living. However, while in the course of living, we will make mistakes, and we will do some good. When we fail, we are to be assured that God forgives every repentant heart, with the sole purpose of correcting the character and building up the child. When we do good, it should not be so sporadic that even we are surprised that we’ve done it, or that we need to be recognized for doing it.

The difference is not so much in what people do, but how they do it. We often fail to understand that God doesn’t want us to do religious things in order to be close to him. He wants us to do the same things, but in a very different way. What sets us apart from the so-called rat race is how we address ordinary things, how our focus is directed to a life of obedience. How do we do that?

First, we know that we get some level of personal pleasure when we accomplish something, do a job right, or just simply enjoy our relaxation. The problem is that we put ourselves in the center of these activities. I did it. I want it. I deserve it. The lasting pleasure, however, lies in the interaction with others --- seeing them succeed, overcome and be refreshed. But that is so unlike what our society teaches us.

Also, we must be ever conscious of God’s presence in all that we do. We have this crazy idea that he’s not concerned with everything that we do, that there are things that we can keep from him. He’s seen it all, sees it all, and understands completely the joys and frustrations that we encounter daily. He’s ready to heal us and fill us with his love --- even after he’s called us on the carpet for bad behavior.

Finally, we are to be fully persuaded that God is love, a consuming fire that purges all of the bad from his created ones. We are made in his image, which means that we too must love, not because we have to, but because we can do no other. We are to set no goals for straightening out our lives; we are to look no further than today, this moment, then the next, and the next, until we lose ourselves in the wondrous events that we call life. Not routine. Not just getting by. But proceeding with purpose, not building for the few paltry years that we expect to have on this earth; instead moving steadily forward in that life eternal, growing to be one with our heavenly Father, looking beyond to the greater journey, with his only son, Jesus Christ, as our guide.

Ode To $$$

2007-10-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

If I should be quite honest here, I must put forth my reasons
For viewing money and it’s woes, it surely has it’s seasons
To buy or sell
I cannot tell
Denying would be treason

I know what having much feels like, I was an only child
Extra gifts, and food, and snacks --- my life was far from mild
My Mom, my Dad
Gave all they had
My world they had defiled

I married well --- or so I thought --- the dowry I could not measure
But little did I know back then what I had gained in treasure
My love, my life
I’d found a wife
Who is my greatest pleasure

Some times were hard, with lack of funds, we struggled some, I feel
Searching for coins in our little car was really no big deal
If you could see
Me, you’d agree
I never missed a meal

At other times the pay was good, the job was going well
Expenses offset income, though, my treasures rose and fell
To buy some pills
To pay some bills
No future I could tell

But then I came to realize that life is more than money
Although I work, the Lord provides my needed bread and honey
Not in the wild
I am his child
No matter rain or sunny

I live and play, and work for pay, but life is sweeter now
I’ve learned to give him every day, and humbly before him bow
Times can be tough
But God’s enough
My love to him I vow

The greatest gift I have received has come down from above
Through all my struggles I believe I understand his love
To live for others
My sisters and brothers
Be harmless as a dove

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
APOSTLE PAUL (Philippians 4:12)

2007-10-15T17:54:00.000-07:00

Another Church Sign: NO ONE IS BEYOND THE REACH OF GOD’S LOVE

How true. But as I drove past that particular church, and knowing something of the doctrine of that particular denomination, I could only shake my head and say, “But they don’t really believe it.”

How could I possibly make that claim? Because their reference to “no one” is, at best, limited, and, at worst, conditional. No one applies only to those who are living in this world. Does God still love any who have rejected him? Sure, they say; God will continue to love them, up until they draw their last breath. But, what happens when they die with rejection still on their lips and unbelief still in their hearts?

The church with the loving sign would say that without Christ, all will be condemned to an eternity in Hell. Does God still love them?

In George MacDonald’s novel, Robert Falconer, the young Robert puts the same question to several that cross his path: “What if a devil were to repent, would the Lord receive him back?” Each reply to him was a total rejection of the idea, and he was given a stern admonishment not to challenge the justice of God.

But the question remains --- is the church sign correct? Does God’s love truly reach to everyone, or does his justice cause him to withdraw that love at some point in time? Is God’s love limited to this life only, or is it a universal love that moves beyond our world and draws all of his creation to himself, in the span of however long it takes to accomplish it?

What about the sins we commit? The unloving, selfish lifestyle? Can God love, does God love the one who does not believe the atonement, who does not apply the blood of Christ to their utterly sinful condition?

The church sign is 100% correct. God’s love MUST reach to everyone because God IS love; he can do no less. He loves through forgiveness. He loves through discipline. He loves no matter what is thrown in the path of redemption, be it devils or our own stubbornness.

The very essence of God is LOVE. It is hard-wired into each of us. Our free will allows us to feel our way through this life, and some, many pick up a lot of garbage along the way, making it difficult to get any real answers and being unable to see God as he really is. But he still loves us. He has the perfect plan in order to make our free will yield to his will in the end. We are his children.

It Is No Secret --- THE SECRET

2007-09-29T02:32:00.000-07:00

A secret is something that you generally keep to yourself --- or maybe tell one or two friends or family. Rhonda Byrne's Secret, however, as told through her book, movie and website, is really no secret at all, but yet another self-help tool. The alleged quote from circus magnate, P. T. Barnum, “There's a sucker born every minute,” quickly comes to mind.

No, I didn't buy the book; I got it at the library. Nor did I pay for membership on the web site. Information from the book wasn't incentive enough to make me desire more. I read it simply for the same reason that many others would --- was it yet another twist on that age-old search for the meaning of life?

While the cover design was inviting, and the format was in small bites, making it an easy read, the content was a disappointing remake of Norman Vincent Peale's The Power of Positive Thinking, first published in 1952. In fact, you could go to any two pages in the book and get the exact content of the entire book.

Just for the record, a positive attitude is not a bad thing. It keeps you healthy, focused and determined. It also has a positive influence on those around you. But to say that all the powers of the universe are magnetically ordered to keep you healthy, wealthy and wise is pretty much out there. It means that all bad things happen to losers, and I just don't buy it.

So why did I even pick it up? Don't I already have a palatable belief structure that gives me enough answers to get me through life? Or am I still unsatisfied and continuing to search? I think that what we believe should always be open to testing, comparing and challenging. If what we hold true remains true, our faith will grow stronger. It we remain open to adjustments to what we hold to be true, we are better for it.

This is all the work of the Spirit of God. We are, and have always been, his children. He is always at work in us, though we may not always see it. But for a great many it is a secret that they have yet to discover. It lies buried under years of tradition, as well as cumbersome layers of religious dogma. The really good news is that the love of God will withstand the tests of time, will survive when all else fails and will provide much-needed answers to age old questions.

Feel free to share this secret with anyone.

Atheism --- Can You Believe It?

2007-09-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

atheism -noun 1. the doctrine or belief that there is no God. (dictionary.com)

Did you catch that? Taking a position that there is no God is in itself a doctrine and requires belief. How cool is that! It allows for the fact that you can't be sure, so you must believe such --- just like the rest of us.

Not many people go through life without questioning their existence, as well as their mortality. A recent AARP poll noted that the older folks get, the more they begin to believe in God and the afterlife. Those who make it to their twilight years and face death's door often see it as fish-or-cut-bait time; invariably, they will go with some type of religion in order to hedge their bets.

Have we ever seen God? Not really. Some have claimed it, but their testimonies are unverifiable. Few of us have seen the burning bush or heard the voice of thunder often attributed to God. So how do we hear about him? Most heard from their parents when they were children, then were introduced to the Bible and preachers at some point in time. But all of this boils down to people who wrote the Bible and other people who interpreted it.

Scientists start with theories, then proceed to assemble facts and conduct experiments in order to test the theories in a controlled environment. Since God can't be poked and prodded, and since evidences of intelligent design fall short of locating the Designer, they must keep God at arm's length. Some Christian scientists make grand assumptions to prove God's existence, but the truth is that they must build on a premise of faith.

G. K. Chesterton said that "if there were no God, then there would be no Atheists." I believe that all human beings have deep within them the light of their creator. Cannot God operate only through the forces of nature and within our hearts? Must he conform to our requisites in order to prove his existence? God = Hope. How futile our lives would be if this is all there is --- birth, work, play, sickness, death!

Sadly, many choose to not believe in God because of the unacceptable image that is put before them. The God of the Muslim, who tells them to terrorize and destroy. The God of the Jew, who pre-selected one people, then punished them repeatedly for their disobedience. Or the God of the Christian Right, who encourages them to advance the Kingdom by force, take over governments, impose the Gospel, and convince the world that most of them will burn eternally in a fiery hell.

We are God's light. We are the true hope. God is love. We must love. Therein is proof enough. Truth and love will prevail with or without our help. Dante said, "The worst moment for the atheist is when he is really thankful and has nobody to thank."

Thank you, Lord.

2007-09-11T02:29:00.000-07:00

The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.

Romans 8:16

A co-worker has recently celebrated the birth of her second child. This news prompted lunch conversation about raising children, how one child is going through the "terrible two's" and another constantly makes embarrasing comments in public. A devout relative of mine has been known to remark, upon hearing of a new birth, "There's another little sinner, come into the world," with no ill intended.

I have both participated in and observed the raising of children, and I am now experiencing the joys of grandparenthood. I have learned a lot, reflecting on my shortcomings as a parent, and trying different approaches as a grandparent. As often as we regard children as special gifts, how often do we proceed to treat them as merely attachments?

In our busy lives, replete with complicated adult relationships, career challenges and abundant choices of multimedia entertainment, we tend to forget the God-given mandate of nurturing our children. Whether we realize it or not, God is always at work raising us. He runs an entire universe, and yet is always keeping an eye on us.

Children "act up" because they are needing attention. Sometimes direct attention with interaction; other times just being in the room, but letting the child know that you care about being with them. They are the primary assignment for any parent, an assignment that should be taken seriously, yet addressed with joy.

Many parents wonder why, when they continually spank them, their son or daughter goes right back to the bad behavior. Because, as painful as it is, receiving the spanking is at least a form of much-needed attention. Even abused children will fight being taken out of the home, because there is a level of security, albeit strained, that only requires their trust. How sad to not be able to see the precious life put into your hands!

When we fail as parents, we're the ones behaving badly. And God will not take us to the woodshed, but will instead use other methods (time out is his favorite) to make us into loving, obedient children. We would do well to observe and do likewise.

What To Write?

2007-08-29T02:36:00.000-07:00

Writer's block. You sit at the keyboard, and nothing of significance comes into your mind. I've read that some of the best writers get it. But am I really a writer? I want to be. And I am writing. But I'm not published --- except for this blog --- and another one (Steve's Journey). I don't get paid for it. So why do I write?

I enjoy writing, and I have recently realized that I should have been writing years ago. I started this blog in December of 2006, and my goal at that time was to put into print the new philosophy that I'm embracing, along with drawing attention to the teachings of the Scottish theologian, George MacDonald.

I believe that this is the real good news (gospel), and that I am meant to testify to it. But it feels like I have covered just about everything in it. Further writing about it would just be a rehash of the same information. It always annoyed me when I would read non-fiction books, that start off with attention-getting information, powerful thoughts, then the other three-fourths of the book would be padded with restatements of the same thing.

Maybe I'm being too hard on myself. Or maybe I should write about other things. But Last Penny was designed with the idea that God is at work --- always at work --- in the lives of everyone that he has created. That he will not rest until all are redeemed, all are reconciled, and all have become obedient, loving children.

Beyond the message, all of the rest is just life. It's what we are meant to do --- live. Things that don't seem to be spiritual are indeed spiritual because we are to be about the work of life, and our work glorifies the Father. Anything less is spiritual weakening and requires special care. We were also put here to provide that care, to encourage one another, to show love. This too is from the Father.

Hey, look --- I'm writing!

2007-08-20T02:22:00.000-07:00

Love and Death make us all children --- Can old age be an evil thing, which does the same?

George MacDonald

Childhood is among the most precious gifts that God has given us. It is a period of trust, a time of experiencing and exploring new things, and a sense of security without even realizing it. In Western society the children grow up too quickly. With constant exposure to television and adult drama played out in the home, children begin to imitate, to mimic adult behavior, whether it be good or bad.

Before long the child begins to desire those privileges and responsibilities that only an adult can "enjoy." Oh, to remain a child for a bit longer! One of the most amazing abilities of the human mind is to remain young and healthy while abiding in frail or broken bodies. While asleep, the crippled dream of walking, the blind dream of seeing, and the elderly dream of bygone days of youth.

Trust is a key quality in childhood. Love is not complete until trust is initiated. Death is embraced when we trust that more life follows. Jesus said in John 21:18, "when you are old ... someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Ironically, the aged are forced to trust for their survival --- something that came naturally to them as a child.

God wants us all to be childlike without being childish. He desires to relate to us on our level, just as an adult gets down on the floor with the youngster, the difference being that God will begin to remove the spiritual toys that harm, the ugliness that separates and the pride that feeds bad behavior.

Love has no motive, but to trust, yield and embrace. Death has no hold; it is but a door that opens for us to take our first steps into the new life. Aging is the culmination of years of learning through failure, increasing in knowledge and gaining the wisdom needed to become the perfect child of a perfect Father.

2007-08-05T03:11:00.000-07:00

The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.

Psalm 119:130

As true as these words are, it is easy to misunderstand the meaning. What are the words of God? Most people that you ask would quickly point you to the Bible. This collection of writings, spanning better than 3,000 years, is the accepted standard of man's relationship with his Creator.

It is not only the centerpiece for all of Christianity, it is touted as the only Word of God for most of Christendom. Like the Bible Belt comment for the Authorized King James Version ("If it was good enough for the Apostle Paul, it's good enough for me!"), we make the assumption that men have always had it, and that God directed the writing and compilation of it.

However, since Paul didn't have the King James --- he didn't even have a Bible ---and the psalmist only had the law, what could the verse above mean? It certainly could refer to a better understanding of the law, but it seems to intimate a more personal direction from the Almighty.

God speaks to us in many ways. I love the Bible. It is a wonderful representation of God's interaction with his created. It depicts both the strengths and weaknesses of the human race. It also boldy displays the dirty laundry of even God's chosen. The words found in the scriptures could well have been directed or inspired, but most certainly would have passed through human hands and be subject to various interpretations.

A friend of mine loves to walk, and he says that God speaks to him through creation --- that at times he is overwhelmed with the beauty and drama found in nature. I can understand and relate to that. I believe that God also speaks through a friend, a mate, a family pet or a baby's cry. Finally, there is the still, small voice within each of us, the connection that bears his image.

We must empty ourselves in order to receive his word. We must also eagerly seek his light in a darkened world. Isaiah 55:11 says that his word will never return to him empty, but will accomplish his purposes. We can stand on his word.

2007-07-22T03:15:00.000-07:00

SIGN IN A MALL: I want to ice fish . . . as soon as I'm done beating cancer.

The phrase accompanies a picture of an elderly man, wearing a fur cap, holding up a fish. The purpose of the ad is to promote a local cancer center at the hospital.

I look at it and wonder if the old man is still alive. Did he beat the cancer? Or was he just a model, posing for the photo shoot, having nothing more than a few arthritic aches and pains? Patient or model, from age alone, are in the twilight years of their lives, disease being the main indicator of how many days they have left.

Cancer is from a Latin word for "crab." The Greek physicians likened the crab's appearance to a tumor with swollen veins. The astrological sign Cancer seems to also take its cue from the crab, meaning hard or tough, like the crab's shell, indicating a personality that was determined or resolute.

We usually see cancer as all bad news, a destroying of life. And life is what we're here for. Unlike other diseases that can strike quickly and hasten death, cancer can develop unseen for long periods, then proceed to kill with great suffering beforehand.

I don't totally grasp why God allows diseases. Perhaps to see how we will deal with them. But why innocent children? Maybe to see how we will accept, or handle, their suffering and possible death. Still, it seems cruel. So we're faced many times over with the age-old question: Does he exist? If he does, then why allow disease, hatred and all other forms of evil that we encounter or observe?

For myself, I can only respond with the realization that I must trust him. Millions of souls enter and leave this world every year. My life is important to me, but I'm just a drop in a very large ocean. How can one life have any significance? That's where trust and hope come in.

I will hope in a creator, because I believe (another good word) that I see his work around me. I seem to hear his voice within me. I don't have to sort out the difficulties of this world. I only have to trust. Just as a child must trust, and the parent seeks wisdom in order to provide nurturing --- the great earthly pattern of a heavenly design.

The Apostle Paul writes, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men." (I Corinthians 15:19). We weren't created just to limp through life, or to hang on for the next one. We are to live it, day by day, moment by moment. This is God's glory. Do your work, raise your family, take a hike, love your neighbor, ice fish ...

Eternity is where life goes on when this fragile shell wears out. God has set his Spirit in the hearts of men. Listen and live.

2007-07-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

SEEN ON A CHURCH SIGN: THE DEVIL LIKES TO FISH IN TROUBLED WATERS

I'm still pondering over how much Satan (or his minions) is directly involved in our lives. Just as I feel that the hand of God is on me most days, there are those few days that it seems that an evil force is at work. What is more obvious to me is how the current condition of my heart influences the work of good or evil in my being.

In Jesus' Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13) we see the seed (gospel/good news) being spread, and various types of soil or terrain receiving it. The results are little produce, struggling plants or a thriving crop. Jesus explains later that the outcome is predicated on the condition of the ground (heart) when the seed (word) is spread.

The analogy of troubled waters is similar in that it is difficult to stir up calm waters unless there is a turbulence already at work, even if just below the surface. God and Satan both rely upon us to contribute to our own spiritual growth or death. The devil can't make me do it, and Christ reminds us that we are yoked together with him --- that is, he won't carry the load alone.

So what will I do about this struggle for my soul? I will guard my heart. I will ask for wisdom (James 1:5). I will resist Satan. And, overall, I will make every effort to love. I can do no other if I want to survive.

2007-07-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
John 14:23

What a wonderful teaching! What an amazing arrangement! We simply do what he tells us, and we have complete fellowship with the God of the universe. The teacher is Jesus. His teacher is God. We are the student-children that he has created.

As I see it, there are at least two areas of teaching that we should address. One is the instruction that we receive from the Bible. While the teachings of Christ in the Gospels are of primary importance, we must also glean spiritual truths from both the Old Testament writings, as well as the New Testament letters. Even though much of scripture is clouded by human manipulation, we can still dig out gems of truth from the human experience.

Secondly, we must listen to the voice within us --- and follow. God begins with the simple instructions, like "sweep the floor" or "give a hug." As we become more comfortable with these brief commands, he adds greater truths and broader revelations. Jesus said, "To him who has, will be given more."

As easy as it sounds, it is certainly not free from obstacles. Like our pride. Or our enemy, the Devil. We may often be swallowed in confusion, rather than clear direction. When this comes, and it will, we must do as Peter did, who wanted to walk on water, but began to sink. We must not take our eyes off of Jesus. Instead, we should reach out, and take his hand.

Listen to his voice. Do what he says. Experience the joy of obedience. Only then can we be at home with the Father.

2007-07-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:31, 32

How many who declare themselves as followers of Christ really follow him? How well do I follow him? It is not enough to merely know about him; we must know him. Even in our daily lives, when we want to get to know someone, we must spend time with them, question them and allow them to enter into our space.

Whether we choose to accept it or not, we all have a tendency to follow someone. This is because we are influenced by their words and lives. That's not necessarily a bad thing if the one being followed is an example of the truth. The Apostle Paul challenges us to imitate him because of his way of life in Christ. Jesus tells us to follow him so that we can learn about his Father and our Father.

A clear warning exists to not blindly follow someone who maintains a "truth" that is unverifiable or makes no sense. Depending on the character of the person, we may trust what they say about themselves. But we must weigh carefully what they say about heavenly matters. They may also interpret the Bible in a way that doesn't quite track with common sense. Especially beware of new "revelations."

Jesus' teaching was clear and concise. It was the perfect guidebook for living this life. When we accept and follow this truth, then we are free to share what is in our hearts. He gave his life to get this message to us. We must devote ours to pass the message on.

2007-07-08T17:31:00.000-07:00

For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.
Matthew 16:27

I'm not so sure any more when this event will happen. It sounds like an official closing out of history, with Jesus sorting everything out and judging those of us who are still standing on That Day.

I'm less concerned about the when and where as I am about the what. What kind of reward will it be? What do I have to do to get one? What happens to me if I don't merit a reward? Why are most Christians down on works, when this certainly seems like the basis on which we get the rewards?

What I can get from the verse, however, is that he wants us to be found doing good. His Spirit (Christ/God) within us reminds us daily what is good and what we can personally do about it. This is called obedience. God doesn't want a disobedient child. Nor does he want an apathetic child. He wants an active child, who goes about doing his Father's business.

It seems to me that the active Christian life consists of three things. First, we must have an open line to God. Along with brief "Thank You's" and "Help Me's" throughout the day, we should consciously plan a quiet time to be with Him and to share whatever is laid upon our heart. If there is nothing to share, then we should just listen. His Spirit will pray for us.

Secondly, we should obey. God is constantly telling us what we should embrace and what we should avoid. We must always be aware that Pride is the greatest enemy of perfect obedience.

Overall, we must love. We are to look upon creation as He sees it. What he has made is very good, even though it is often tainted with evil. He plans the redemption of everything. We must help Him in this work. That's what obedient children do.

2007-07-06T02:34:00.000-07:00

But he [Christ] said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9

The Apostle Paul was referring to his thorn in the flesh, yet not identifying just what it was. It seemed to be some physical or mental deficiency that annoyed him. Having asked God to remove it on three occasions, he was now ready not only to accept it, but to embrace it. However, in the same passage he reports that someone (very likely himself) received a great revelation and was caught up to paradise.

Strength in weakness is a paradox in which one must be accepted in order to gain the other. The natural tendency, though, is to regard weakness as a negative. We're taught that only the strong survive, only the aggressive make it in this world, and "do unto others before they do it unto you."

To be sure, who would naturally welcome insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties, as listed in verse 10? If we are truly honest, we must admit that weakness is the natural condition for insecurity, sadness, depression and a troubled spirit. So what does the verse mean?

It may very well be a dramatic antithesis for pride, which boasts of strength, accomplishments, beauty and position in life. It's less of wallowing in weakness, but rather recognizing that our focus is directed to the One who gives us strength. We must realize that all that we have can be taken away from us at any moment. We see it every day. Life itself is fleeting. My 60-year-old body can hardly keep up with my 20-year-old mind.

If we are founded in the fact that God is our strength, then we understand that any supposed weakness, by the world's standards, is used by Him to sanctify us. It is also used to draw our attention to Him and to keep our pride at bay. Our lives consist of constant reassessments of who we are and why we are here. As our relationship with our Creator grows deeper, we are less likely to dwell on the meaning of life. We simply live it. His grace is sufficient.

2007-06-25T02:30:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER BOOK TITLE: Fasting Made Easy

Yep. There it was, in the inspirational book rack. Again, no time to thumb through it, but immediately my mind began to wonder. If it was easy, wouldn't it quickly lose its purpose? Isn't the reason for fasting that it is a concentrated time period in which we give up food to focus on something, someone --- our lives, God? Wouldn't making it easy diminish its effect, undermine its purpose?

Now, I weigh 300+ pounds, so there are many that would recommend that I begin fasting --- and soon! I believe that's called dieting, and even that makes me shudder, although I realize that addressing eating habits and exercise is in order.

Fasting is built into our lifestyle. For most of us, once in each 24-hour period we fast, after which we break the fast with a simple meal called breakfast. Many who undergo medical procedures are often required to fast, to some degree, by restraining from eating (or drinking) so many hours before the test.

The book, however, was written by a doctor, who I assume to be a professed Christian (because it was on the inspirational book rack), and who has attempted to address the Biblical directive of fasting, yet somehow taking the edge off of the unpleasantness of it. Again I ask, is fasting supposed to be easy?

I must admit, I struggle with the whole idea of religious fasting. It was a regular part of the life of the Old Testament Jew, and Jesus gave instructions to not look like we're fasting when we do, because it draws attention to ourselves. But for me it seems that going without food voluntarily would only put you in a position of focused thinking --- about the food, not God. I can understand the urge to pray if you are truly starving and without food. And I know that eating too much, or too much of a certain thing, can make you sleepy and unable to pray. I just don't see how going for many hours, with stomach growling, when you know that satisfying it is a quick fix --- how your spiritual being is heightened or enlightened.

Still, I don't recall ever actually trying it. Maybe I should. Right after dinner.

2007-06-20T02:22:00.000-07:00

QUOTE FROM A PHYSICIST:
With or without religion, you would have good people doing good things and evil people doing evil things. But for good people to do evil things, that takes religion.
Steven Weinberg

How many times have we heard unbelievers reject Christianity because there were "too many hypocrites in the church?" And the standard response has been that, regardless of the behavior of Christians, our decision determines where we spend eternity --- point and counterpoint. I've yet to hear anyone acknowledge the fact that hypocrisy is a serious issue in the church.

Rather than keeping a salvation tally sheet (13 Heaven - 42 Hell), shouldn't we who claim Christ begin to examine our own behavior 24/7? A professor friend of mine said that, over the years, many of his students would come back to class from their part-time jobs as waiters and report that "Christians" were among the worst patrons.

They would ceremoniously pray over their meals, then proceed to be demanding, arrogant, loud, abrasive, rude --- and lousy tippers!

In the parable of the sheep and goats, Jesus tells about judgement day, where the criterion was not whether your halo was on straight, but rather how you treated those around you. Not your church attendance record, your faithfulness to the choir, your passing out of tracts (witnessing?) or your prayer journal. How did you care for those you encounter every day --- family, friends, so-called friends, strangers, enemies?

Are we really who we claim to be? Hypocrisy means that we deceive others by our demeanor, when our actions speak otherwise. What truly sets us apart from the world is not our Get-Out-Of-Hell-Free card, but rather our persona of peace and compassion that emanates from a truly changed heart.

Our example is Jesus Christ, who demonstrated a genuine love for everyone, but a general distrust for the religious right, who didn't love everyone. His relationship to his heavenly Father was the pattern for our relationship with the same Father. And both of them saw the future flower bursting forth from the worst of weeds.

The Apostle James writes that true religion is "to look after orphans and widows in their distress." Accordingly, the whole of religion centers around marriage and family --- the core relationships that set us apart from the lower creation. The church has the mandate to heal person-to-person problems --- not to become part of the problem. You can't throw programs at ugliness. You must meet it, individually, with love and understanding.

I believe that good and evil will not coexist forever. Evil will certainly remain strong during my lifetime and many generations to come. But God's love is stronger. He is not willing that any shall perish, the Bible says. We must not give up on loving. We must be determined to give religion a new name. We must show the world that we are becoming like the one who taught us to love. Only then will the word hypocrisy be moved to the archaism section of the dictionary.

2007-06-14T02:33:00.000-07:00

James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

Sounds too easy. And too good to be true. But I believe it with all my heart. God has given us everything we need to sustain life --- all without us asking for it. Wisdom, on the other hand, requires a genuine relationship with him.

How do you know when you lack wisdom? That's easy. Because you act stupid. The signs are all there. You make mistakes. You react badly. You say and do things that you regret. Those around you can't understand you, or don't like you. You feel depressed, or angry, or sad or afraid. It affects not only your outlook on life; it also hinders relationships.

Wisdom is more than just head smarts. More than having all the answers to all the questions. Wisdom is a process of understanding the questioner, as well as the question. Lord Tennyson said, "Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers."

King Solomon was offered whatever his heart desired, but he prayed for wisdom rather than wealth or power. As a result he got it all --- in abundance. His prayer was answered, but toward the end of his life it appeared that wisdom had eluded him. He compromised his faith in the One who had given him wisdom in the beginning. His life became meaningless.

So we can ask for it freely, with no strings attached. What we do with it is another matter. And it's not a one-time grand prize. We will likely have to ask for it over and over. Because our pride and selfishness will hinder its effective use. We sometimes have to exhaust other attempts at life in order to recognize the wisdom given us. "Wisdom is what's left after we've run out of personal opinions," remarks American salesman Cullen Hightower. Now, I don't have a heart toward salesmen of any kind, but that's a great reflection.

God has given us the freedom to choose. As the verse says, he's always ready to smarten us up whenever we have exhausted our own pitiful resources. His love is like that. He is the Ultimate Father. His children will eventually arise and go to him. I have wonderful daughters and grandsons. May I have the wisdom to enlarge their understanding of life and love.

Happy Fathers Day.

2007-06-10T04:01:00.000-07:00

QUOTE FROM A NEWSPAPER (RELIGION SECTION):
William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, took to the streets of London preaching to the drunks, prostitutes and downtrodden that Jesus Christ was their only hope to escape from the grip of sin. Now, 142 years later, people still are downtrodden and in the grip of sin.

When I read this quote, another quote came to mind, that of Charles Dickens: "The more things change, the more they stay the same." Many years before and after Mr. Booth's experience Christianity has been packaged and re-packaged, only to find the harvest still ripe and the world still hungering for truth.

Billy Graham was recently honored with the opening of a grand library in his name. In his "acceptance" speech, he remarked that it's "not about the building." And it wasn't. It was about him, God's Evangelist. I must admit that among the many notable advocates of the faith, Mr. Graham stands out as the symbol of Christian purity, humility and dedication. He spent over 60 years leading people "to Christ." But the weeds seem to be thriving right along with the wheat, and the wheat is looking less genuine.

Many who are called Christian often behave in a non-Christian manner. Truly devout Chrisitans tend to be judgemental and unapproachable. Others lead lives that indicate, aside from regular church attendance, that they are really no different than their unsaved brethren. Like the bumper sticker says: Christians aren't perfect --- just forgiven.

William Booth's "good news" (gospel) also has remained unchanged over the years. It is founded on the statement that everyone deserves to die and burn forever because they have rejected God. Even those who follow "God" are rejected if they deny Christ, his son. Booth's premise that only Christ can bring folks out of the grip of sin is right on. But it is only a small part of a cumbersome formula (plan of salvation), when it really should be foremost.

God would have us be perfect. He will not give us a pass, no matter how many times we recite the Sinner's Prayer. The perfection process spans eternity and is necessary to make us good and obedient children. The perfect plan of salvation is the following of his own perfect and obedient son, Jesus. Jesus communicated the love of the Father, as well as the will of the Father. And Jesus, knowing our weaknesses and desires, accepts nothing less than our complete reconciliation with our Creator. He gave his life to that end.

2007-06-06T02:49:00.000-07:00

QUOTE FROM A NOVEL:
My conviction is, that, near or far off, in ourselves, or in our ancestors --- say Adam and Eve, for comprehension's sake --- all our ailments have a moral cause. I think that if we were all good, disease would, in the course of generations, disappear utterly from the face of the earth.

What a remarkable concept! I had read this story several times and obviously overlooked this gem. All of Christianity is pretty much in agreement that disease and death were a result of the "fall" in the Garden of Eden. But what if Adam and Eve weren't kicked out of the garden because they had sinned, but rather because they continued to sin? And this started the pattern of sinning that they passed on to future generations.

Disease, then, is directly connected to practiced sin --- whether outward or hidden. Does that mean that a person's sickness is an indicator of personal sin? The greater the sickness, the more sin present? I don't believe that it works like that, but even the medical community has proven a strong correlation between a patient's attitude and their recovery process.

Jesus speaks of our actions being the result of what is in our hearts. In John 9, when encountering a blind man, his disciples asked him who had sinned, causing the man to be blind --- the man or his parents? Jesus replied that neither were responsible for his condition. I've always been somewhat troubled by the interpretation that the man was born blind so that many years later Jesus could heal him.

However, if I look at it more closely, I see that disease, in general, reigns, just as sin flourishes in the world. Jesus could have easily healed everyone, so why didn't he? Because the good news is that healing will come when our hearts are healed. Physician, heal yourself! (Luke 4:23)

We must stop looking for the feel-good, showmanship healing miracles that are so widely touted. The real healing is within us --- the special gift that God bestowed. When we truly become good and obedient children, sin will begin to wither and die. Evil will have no place to take root and cannot survive. Amazing!

2007-06-05T04:00:00.000-07:00

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 seems to go to great lengths in order to assure us that God's love is greater than anything that would attempt to keep us away from him. It's a wonderful verse, and I believe it with all my heart. But most "Christians" don't.

What can separate us from God's love? Can hell? Are those that are in hell now on the outside of God's love? How can he still love them and burn them forever? Or does the verse only apply to Christians --- those who "accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior?" What about John 3:16? Does he truly love the world but with strings attached?

Or what about 2 Corinthians 5:19, where God is reconciling the world to himself in Christ? Is the Lord of the Universe not capable of meaning world when he says world?

Suppose our children were apathetic, mean, disobedient, unbearable or outright evil --- would they ever stop being our children? Never! If we stop loving them, shame on us. Would we not do anything in our power to bring them back to us of their own free will? If we can even imagine it, why can't God do it? Of course he can. He wrote the book.

2007-06-05T02:24:00.000-07:00

John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Jesus told his disciples that they would be going through rough times. They would be tried and persecuted. Following him would cost them their lives. He also promised them a Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who would guide and teach them. The Spirit would take them through the persecution, and their amazing peace would draw many to Christ.

At any point in time, somewhere throughout the world, someone is experiencing the same severe treatment and facing the same death as the disciples. But the great majority of us Christians will face nothing more than personal rejection by friends and family for our faith. Yet we struggle with having real peace.

We're burdened by judgemental behavior; we give it and receive it. We're weighted down by the cares of making a living, losing a loved one or fighting an illness. For many the only persecution they experience comes from within the church. Doctrinal challenges from all sides keep us from enjoying the peace of Christ.

While we're not likely to be nailed to a cross or tossed to the lions, we are assured the same peace that was offered to Peter, James and John. The same Spirit walks with us that accompanied them in the Promised Land. Jesus said in Matthew 6, "Each day has enough trouble of its own."

How did Jesus overcome the world? By showing us that his Father --- our Father --- cares for us deeply, has given us everything beautiful and wants us to give him the glory --- and let it show. Jesus overcame the world by showing that life does not end with death. That life is, just as God said that his name was I AM. And Jesus gave a little demonstration to prove it, by hanging around for a while following his own "death."

For this we can take heart. We have a peace that passes all understanding. And the world is watching us.

2007-06-01T02:37:00.000-07:00

BOOK TITLE: Lord, Teach Me To Pray In 28 Days

You've seen them. The colorful designs and snappy titles on the inspirational book rack as you move through the store. The offer of blessings and help with every area of your life. Specific formulas on how to manipulate the Kingdom of Heaven to give you maximum benefit.

I like to browse, but I didn't have the time to check this one out. The title, however, set off some rapid-fire questions in my mind. Why would we put a time restriction on God? The title itself was an imperative, demanding something from the Almighty. (Perhaps adding the word "please" would have given it a touch of humility.) Do we really need a formula for praying?

I myself have struggled with the concept of prayer over the years. I was taught from childhood to recite the Lord's Prayer, found in the New Testament. As I grew I learned that you should hear prayer requests, keep a prayer list and produce a prayer journal that logs prayers, asked and answered.

I have a relative who maintains that if we are to dress and act a certain way before "kings and potentates", then why not more so before the Maker of the Universe? Now, I don't normally hang around kings and those other guys, but I'm with my heavenly Father every day. And a while back I was fairly certain that I heard him say, "Can we talk?"

He told me that because he was intimately aware of every detail of my life, then I should be more conscious of his presence as often as possible, and that, over time, I would begin to feel his presence more --- by just talking to him. This includes thinking to him.

In Deueronomy 6:7 the writer encourages us to make God's commands the centerpiece of our lives. "Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you are walking along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Despite what others may think, I don't believe he was referring to Bible memorization. Commandments are God's words. And we need a constant flow of his words into and through our lives. We must keep an open line to the Heavenly Call Center.

I started by admitting to him that I had difficulty praying. I proceeded to sharing the most intimate details of my shortcomings, my frustrations about my own life, as well as struggles in relationships with others around me. I began to realize that the conversation was flowing. That I seemed to be hearing responses, even while I was speaking (or thinking).

Let me assure you that I am no Prayer Warrior (whatever that is). But I think that I am beginning to understand this personal Creator-to-Creation bond. While he is much greater than any earthly "king or potentate", he is still my father, who loves me dearly, and wants me to desire his presence daily.

Talk to him. Tell him about your joys, your frustrations, your failures, your confusion --- even about how he does things. Ask him for what you want, and don't worry about asking for the wrong thing. Along with your request, admit to him that you don't know what you need. Don't pick a time to pray. Pray all of the time that you are conscious of his presence. Don't make a list. Don't develop a sermon or flowery prayer. Just pray.

You know that he already knows what you are going to pray (or think), and he already knows what you need (and want). So why pray? Because dialogue is crucial to your relationship with him. It will ease your troubles, encourage your walk and bring you peace.

Wings

2007-05-29T02:34:00.000-07:00

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.
Isaiah 40:31

The babies are gone. Over a couple of days we watched, with anticipation, from our bedroom window as each fledgling house finch climbed up to the edge of the nest, shook its wings, looked around precariously, then retreated back to safety, preferring to fly another day. We saw the mother land an inch or two further each feeding time in order to coax the four young ones to venture from their secure environment. Then father and mother would land on an adjoining hanging plant, trading chirps with the next recruit, as if to say, "Come on. You can do it!" We didn't have the same patience as the parent birds, however, because we never got to see even one of them actually leave the nest. In an instant they had taken wing.

In a few short weeks, we observed the miracle of nature --- making a home, giving birth, feeding, nurturing and maturing --- a miniature panorama of life. This was a story complete with caring and interaction (One day the father bird nudged the mother along an electric wire, saying, "Get down there. They're getting too close to the nest."). It was a tale of danger. We have several neighborhood cats who circled and lay in wait for days, and we intervened to ensure that they weren't successful in their hunt. Even on launch day the ground must have looked as if it was miles below, rather than only a few feet from nest to porch.

Life lessons come in many forms, and this was one of many that present themselves to us on a daily basis. The Bible says that if God cares for the single sparrow that falls to the ground, how much more he cares for us, the ones made in his image. We start life being extremely needy. If we're not careful or obedient, we move from being needy to being greedy. We have a tendency to want to stay in the comfort and safety of the nest, expecting life to be delivered to us. But God wants us to venture forth and experience life, with all of its peril and excitement.

Later on in the day we saw above us what appeared to be sky training. The recently promoted chick would flap its wings furiously in order to stay aloft, while parent would row and glide gently across the heavens. There was much more to learn --- where to find food and water, how to avoid harm and how to prepare the next generation of birdness. All of this unfolded with apparent perfection. And we look on with wonder, then give thanks and praise to our God.

Memories Of Mother

2007-05-19T02:39:00.000-07:00

I can always remember Mother's Day because it falls on the first Sunday following my mother's birthday of May 11. Before her death in 1991 I remembered her birthday only in relationship to Mother's Day, which, sadly, was sometimes too late. I've written in this blog about my relationship with my Dad. Now it's Mom's turn.

When my mother died, I bawled like it was the end of the world. When my father died, I only experienced a brief weeping at the news. Yet the mother-son experience was far from perfect. Perhaps the only way to explain it is that, after she's gone, you suddenly realize, "I've lost my Momma!." In spite of all of our rough periods, she was still the person (next to my wife) who stood by me, loved me unconditionally, and was proud of anything that I had accomplished.

However, her history was shrouded in mystery --- including the begetting of me. As her medical condition worsened, I was made recipient to some soul-cleansing confessions, even though some of the facts didn't quite add up after further investigation. Why do people keep so much anger, hurt or shame pent up for so many years? I assured her on more than one occasion that there was nothing she could say to me that would lessen my love for her.

Still, she was my Mom. No matter how far away I lived, she would make contact with me on a regular basis. I could call her anytime, day or night, to share good news, bad news, joys or sorrows. I miss her.

As I look back, I see that much of our relationship was surface, similar to how my Dad and I related to one another. Countless games of Canasta were the backdrop for what conversations we had. (She trounced me soundly the night before she died.) Upon further reflection, I now realize that any meaningful talk was about me or my family. That is to say, I was foolishly focused on myself, rather than getting to know who she really was and developing a true dialogue with her.

My mother had difficulty in showing love and affection. Her best effort was to provide material things for me (She worked most of her life.), and, being an only child, I was more than ready to accept that arrangement. However, deep inside I needed more. While it was not an excuse for my lack of outward love for my own children, it does provide an explanation. We have the responsibility as adults to stop the cycle --- to form a bond with children and grandchildren, a bond that will affect generations to come.

My wife and I are watching with enjoyment the activity of new birth and growth of some house finches, whose nest is located precariously in a hanging spider plant on our front porch. Both mother and father bird are actively involved in caring for the young ones. God has designed in some species of nature a pattern that we "higher creatures" should take lessons from.

Caring for one another is paramount in our existence on this spinning ball and is an intricate part of a journey that extends far beyond our fleeting breath called life. God is both father and mother, the perfect parent. He birthed us, nurtured us and prepared a place for us. He sent his firstborn to teach us about himself.

We would do well to observe the lives of those close to us, then address our own lives in relation to theirs. This experience must begin at home, if it is to ever truly work with others. Also, don't be discouraged if the results are not quite what you expect. God is constantly working in all of his children, in areas that we often do not know about. I am responsible for me.

For many years after my marriage, my mother kept a room prepared for me, I guess in case the marriage didn't work out. But both my mother and my God had to eventually kick me out of the nest, so that I might spread my wings and learn to fly.

STEVE

Why Can't We All Just Get Along?

2007-05-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

Those well-known words were uttered by one Rodney King in 1991, following horrific riots, which themselves were prompted by the acquittal of the police officers who brutally subdued him after a traffic violation. The anger of the black community was fueled by the fact that the incident was caught on videotape. Mr. King, who was awarded a large sum of money in a subsequent civil suit, proved by multiple arrests before and after the incident that he himself was unable to "get along."

Yet, the words are profound and still stand. Because it's what God wants. It's what we were created for. The concept goes beyond mere tolerance of one another.

So, why can't we get along? The reasons are wide and varied. Racial and religious tensions are probably at the top, with political disagreements close behind. The root cause is simply bad behavior, which itself is based on pride, selfishness, frustration and anger. Overcoming those negatives takes work, and many simply don't have the determination to do it. So we can add apathy and laziness to the equation.

This post is too small to address the overall unrest in the world, so let's focus on religion. History has proven that some religions are tolerant, while others amass followers and resources with the purpose of eliminating or suppressing all who oppose them. Even within modern day Christianity there are countless denominations that are founded simply on tradition or various interpretations of the Bible --- even versions or translations of it. Individual groups will split over church policy or a division in leadership.

Why can't pure, accepting love be set as the cornerstone of every doctrine? The kind of love that says separation is not an option. The kind of system that says if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who was love incarnate, then we would be amazed to see over time how close we are to coming together over individual beliefs. That we are trusting the Father of lights to secure that unity that bonds us as true brothers and sisters. It has to happen some day; why not start now?

While this may seem Utopian and unachievable on the whole, it can most surely begin with one individual. Nine years before his tragic death in 1980 John Lennon wrote and recorded a song called Imagine. Many of the lyrics prompted outrage from the Christian community (Imagine there's no heaven ... no hell beneath ... no religion too), but they reflected an honest response to many "faiths" that were failing to bind a wounded world.

Peace, reconciliation and "living as one" are most assuredly the goals of the Father of all. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:18, "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Too lofty a goal? I don't think so. Give peace a chance.

STEVE

The Business of Minding

2007-05-01T02:23:00.000-07:00

"For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.
I Corinthians 2:16

Viruses of all sorts can be annoying. When what seems like a short-term bacterial infection doesn't go away, it can turn out to be a virus. It's a nasty bug that hangs on forever and must finish its course until the body's natural immune system gets rid of it.

A computer virus is equally annoying. I write from recent experience. What was particularly frustrating was that I was paying for a service that provided firewalls and security devices to protect from just such an invasion. In the process of getting my computer functional again, I had to wipe my hard drive --- that is, erase all of my files and reinstall the basic operating system. If you don't have a backup of your files, then you have lost everything. I did recently back up my files, but, thankfully, most of my thoughts and scribblings are safe on the worldwide web (?).

I've read that our minds are like super-powerful computers. That we record and catalog virtually everything over the course of our lives. Every thought, printed word, spoken word, sound, image and smell. I believe it because some of the oddest rememberings from my distant past can pop into my active thinking at any time.

The good memories are a blessing to relive. The bad ones? Well, you just wish they would go away. They can consist of hurt or ugliness that you have received or witnessed, or they can be reminders of ugly things that you have said or done. I believe that our mind is the seat of our soul and is the area in which God and his enemies do battle.

Sometimes we wish that he would just wipe the hard drive of our mind and reinstall his own operating system. Many faiths teach just that. When you "accept Christ," you are changed forever. But it would be difficult to find anyone who has miraculously shed all bad memories or temptations to behave badly.

Sanctification, however, is a process in which our minds are renewed over a period of time, in order to achieve a common goal --- that we emerge as pure, lovely children of the Father. The Bible confirms that God is abounding in forgiveness, but yet lets no sin go unpunished. He's not so much concerned with what we did, but rather what we are doing, and what we are going to do. A real problem that we Christians wrestle with is that we dwell in the shame of past sins/failures that have already been forgiven!

God wants us to accept his forgiveness and move on, looking ahead to the goodness that his son, Jesus, has taught us and is willing to help us to achieve. We have also been taught that good deeds are bad because they are "works." Rubbish! The Apostle Paul told King Agrippa that his message to the people was that they were to "repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds."

Paul also gave a wonderful formula for renewing our minds, in that we should, over time, replace the bad thoughts with good ones. In Philippians 4:8 he writes, "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."

I'm thinking, Lord.

STEVE

Through A Glass Darkly

2007-04-14T03:10:00.000-07:00

Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
I Corinthians 13:12

My wife and I have just returned from a trip to Florida. It was not a vacation, but was more like a short-term mission trip. Our mission was to care for her 91-year-old father, who is in the final stages of Alzheimer's. We endured a week of tiring 14-hour days, but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything.

Her mother (who has congestive heart failure) and her sister --- along with others --- are attempting to care for him in the home as long as they can. It is a daunting task because he is still ambulatory, and you never know what he's going to get into. My wife accurately described him as having the characteristics of a toddler, with one exception: a real toddler can be trained.

It was truly a moving experience to see someone who was for many years a self-made man, fastidiously pious and full of pride, now reduced to a disobedient child in Depends.

This condition is far worse than standard dementia because it goes well beyond forgetting who someone is, or remembering a particular date, to the state of adversely affecting the motor skills and rote daily activity. He could perfectly tie his shoes one minute, then take a bite off of a bar of soap and eat it in the next.

I believe that God uses this condition, along with others, to bring us through this journey of life. As to why certain people have to go into this tunnel, I don't have a clue. I did observe, however, that the old characteristics of this man went into the darkness with him. Wanting to do things himself. Ready to fight you. Singing his praises of his accomplishments. These are the things that he must wrestle over with his heavenly Father even before he proceeds through the door of death.

It is surely a wake-up call to those of us who are still in our right minds. Now is the day of salvation. Now is the time to be obedient in the love for others that God intended for us. This disease not only has a profound impact on the patient, but on the caregivers as well. We are here for each other. Jesus said, "Whatever you have done for the least of these, you have done for me."

We left her parents' house feeling a bit helpless --- realizing that we had represented but a small drop in a very large pond. We felt empathy for those whom we had left behind to care for this man.

I must also share the experience we had in meeting a real angel. His name is Frank. He is Puerto Rican. He lives across the street from my father-in-law. A while back he offered his services because he saw the signs. Frank is experienced in working with Alzheimers patients. He's sixty-five. Every morning he comes over and cares for Louis. He shaves and bathes him meticulously. And he has a sweet spirit. He genuinely loves all of the patients he cares for, no matter how they behave to him. He arrives and leaves with a beautiful smile on his face. And this for a man who, in his right mind, wouldn't normally have given Frank the time of day.

In the New Testament James tells us that true religion is caring for widows and orphans. This disease has already made a widow of sorts of my mother-in-law. And Louis is surely feeling alone in the darkness of his own personal hell. God is truly at work in his children.
STEVE

Resting In Peace (No, Not Death)

2007-03-29T02:43:00.000-07:00

Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
JOHN 11:28-30

If you're over forty, you have probably met (or will meet) today someone who will indicate to you that they are tired; and you will relate to them. Unfortunately, many of the people you meet will be under forty. Researchers have concluded that the source of this tiredness is either from disease, sickness, poor diet, obesity or weariness from living in an unstable world.

I've been spending some rough nights, with difficulty breathing and chest congestion, from seasonal allergies (and probably working in a doctor's office). But my spirit seems to feel quite chipper, thank you. And I think that that is the medicine (along with lots of vitamin C) that will render my condition manageable. Studies have also determined that a good attitude makes for a speedy recovery.

What about those spirits that are sick? Those mental conditions that convey sadness, misery, loneliness, anger, frustration and depression? To be sure, we all suffer from each of those from time to time, but many seem to live with them. Why do some shake them off, while others trudge along, carrying them on their backs?

I honestly don't know, but I am firmly convinced that God is not only constantly aware of them, but he is in the mix. You see, I believe that everything has a purpose. A great many Christians believe that God set things in motion and then stepped back to watch the outcome. Others think that he only intervenes on occasion, especially at the time we are to "accept Christ." Then we're left to ourselves to "work out" our salvation.

I'm convinced in my heart that he is intimately aware of (and concerned about) our daily doings as his very own dear children. We are often told to shake off our negative emotions, and sometimes that works --- only to have them sneak right back in --- or even to return with a vengeance.

That's why God has coupled us with his son, Jesus. Because Jesus has been there/done that, felt our emotions --- and still remained an obedient, peaceful and loving son. Many carry their crosses as they carry their Bibles, more as a badge of honor, with a woe-is-me attitude, when all the time Jesus assures us that the yoke is easy, the burden is light.

Now, we cannot help at times passing through the valley of despair. My wife and I have a running argument as to how much Satan is involved in the mind games. She thinks I give him way too much credit. She may be right. We definitely do not want to make him our excuse for behaving badly.

Three things jump out at me in the quoted verse. One is that we are to learn from Jesus. How? By reading what he said (the Gospels) and by listening to his Spirit (the voice inside). We must also concentrate on gentleness. In my frustrating workday, I may snap at someone without thinking. In my passion for discussing heartfelt spiritual issues, I may come across as overpowering or abrasive. In short, I must remain calm and collected as I deal with these challenges.

Finally, I must show humility. This is the most difficult because, as I have written before, if you are consciously aware that you are humble, then you are not humble. The key to this quality may also be the gentleness. It is a form of waiting on God, testing the spirits and being willing to learn and to accept your own shortcomings, with a firm determination to constantly do better.

The image of the yoke is powerful. Two beings bound together to perform a task that one could not manage alone. We know that Jesus could pull the whole load himself, but he won't do that. He will not walk off and leave us. We must step out with him in order to proceed on our journey.

What does this say? We're never alone. We always have an advocate to the Father for us. We always have a companion to share our burden. Walk with him. Work with him. It will be a wonderful experience. One that will bring joy.
STEVE

Hope For Eternity

2007-03-22T02:42:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't want to live forever? How about people whose lives are messed up, who suffer from debilitating diseases or who have lost a life partner? Others, who have every need met, who are the picture of health and are surrounded by loving friends and family don't want life to end.

But time runs out. Or life is cut short. We must all one day face the Grim Reaper. So we shift our focus to life after life. Will there be one? Will it be better than this one? Do I have to sit on a cloud, playing a harp forever? How long is forever?

The concept of eternity has been debated for ages, from Aristotle to Augustine. Most theories involve God (or a god, or gods), existing outside of time and space as we know it. The philosophers attempt different methods of inductive reasoning and metaphysical understanding. It can become quite brain-numbing, like the following:

Time must be eternal because to refer to a time "before" time began implies that there was time before time, making the concept self-contradictory.

Huh? It makes my head hurt to read some of this stuff. I'm still amazed at how they can put me out, perform five hours of surgery, wake me up, and I have absolutely no concept of the time having passed.

Christians and scientists agree on at least one thing --- that our universe had a start. Christians say that God created it. NASA says that it exploded into being 13.7 billion years ago. (Only scientists can add a .7 to an already unbelievable number!)

We have no remembrance of anything prior to our own birth (actually later than that), and we don't have a clue as to what really happens after death. So it seems our real focus is the here and now, with a positive outlook on the hereafter. The Bible says that God has "set eternity in the hearts of men." (Eccl. 3:11).

I'm also amazed at the similarities between us humans and the animal kingdom (mammals, that is) --- with one difference. I look at my dog. He has similar body parts. Eats, drinks, sleeps, just like me. But he doesn't worry. He doesn't plot. He is always ready to greet me joyfully after five minutes, or five days. I can ascribe human emotions to him because they look similar to my own. But upon careful study, I soon learn that his "emotions" are from instinct. He doesn't hold grudges or pit me against my wife. He will sit loyally at my feet, but won't have a dialogue with me. He looks like he's thinking, but we won't be having a discussion about life. In short, his only goal is to be a dog, for this day, for this moment.

I'm beginning to realize that God wants me to be his son, for this day, for this moment. My dog was created to honor his creator by his very existence. So am I --- with one exception. I have been given a higher intelligence, one in which I can embrace or reject my creator. And my relationship to him will be bound eternally to my relationship with other humans (and how I treat my pets).

I must live for the moment, doing the things that God wants me to do, no matter how trivial they may seem to me. Like many others, I live for the weekend. Time with my wife, grown children and grandchildren. Time to unwind. I've got to change that. While those moments are precious, I must realize that every moment is precious. Appreciating life in intricate detail.

Jesus said in a prayer to his Father, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." (John 17:3) Notice, he didn't say anything about length of time. That matters not to God. When you're right with him, time becomes unnecessary.

Like the billboard says: GET RIGHT WITH GOD
STEVE

George MacDonald from "Unspoken Sermons"

2007-03-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

I believe in Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, my elder brother, my lord and master.

I believe that he has a right to my absolute obedience whenever I know or shall come to know his will; that to obey him is to ascend to the highest point of my being; that not to obey him would be to deny him.

I believe that he died that I might die like him --- die to any ruling power in me but the will of God --- live ready to be nailed to the cross as he was, if God wills it.

I believe that he is my Savior from myself, and from all that comes of loving myself, from all that God does not love, and would not have me love --- from all that is not worth loving; that he died that the justice, the mercy of God, might have its way with me, making me just as God is just, merciful as he is merciful, perfect as my father in heaven is perfect.

I believe and pray that he will give whatever punishment needed to set me right, or to keep me from going wrong.

I believe that he died to deliver me from all meanness, all pretending, all falseness, all unfairness, all self-pity, all cowardice, all fear, all anxiety, all forms of self-love, all trust or hope in possessions; making me joyful as a child, the child of our father in heaven, loving nothing but what is lovely, desiring nothing that I should be ashamed to let the universe of God see me desire.

I believe that God is just like Jesus, only greater yet, because Jesus said so.

I believe that God is absolutely, grandly beautiful, even as the highest soul of man counts beauty, but infinitely more beautiful than that soul's highest idea --- with the beauty that creates beauty, not merely shows it, or itself exists as beautiful.

I believe that God has always done, is always doing his best for everyone; that no one is miserable because God is forgetting them; that he is not a God to crouch before, but our father, to whom the child-heart cries with joy, "Do with me as you will."

I believe that there is nothing good for me or for anyone but God, and more and more of God, and that only through knowing Christ can we come near to him.

I believe that no one is ever condemned for any sin except one --- that he or she will not leave their sins and come out of them, and be the child of him who is their father.

I believe that justice and mercy are simply one and the same thing; without justice to the full there can be no mercy, and without mercy to the full there can be no justice; that the mercy of God is such that he will hold his children in the consuming fire of his distance until they pay the last penny, until they drop the purse of selfishness with all the trash in it, and rush home to the Father and the Son, and with the many brothers and sisters rush inside the center of his life-giving fire whose outer circles burn.

I believe that no hell will be lacking which would help the just mercy of God to redeem his children.

I believe that to those who obey, and thus open the doors of their hearts to receive the eternal gift, God gives the spirit of his son, the spirit of himself, to be in them, and lead them to the understanding of all truth; that the true disciple may thus always know what he or she ought to do, though not necessarily what another ought to do; and that same spirit of the Father and the Son will enlighten by teaching righteousness.

I believe that no teacher should strive to make others think as he thinks, but to lead them to the living Truth, to the Master himself, from whom alone they can learn anything, who will make them in themselves know what is true by the very seeing of it.

I believe that the inspiration of the Almighty alone gives understanding.

I believe that to be a disciple of Christ is the ultimate goal of being; that to persuade others to be his disciples is the ultimate goal of teaching.

Amen. I believe also.
STEVE

Lead, Follow or Get Out Of The Way

2007-03-12T02:50:00.000-07:00

I used to think that there were two kinds of people in the world --- those who were Christian and those who were not. The Jews called anyone who weren't Jews Gentiles. Some may even classify humanity as those who have religion and those who don't.

I'm at the end of the project that I started on December 29, 2006, in which I commented on George MacDonald's "statement of faith" as it relates to my own life. The entire list of beliefs that I referenced will be collected in my next blog for preservation, since I will be removing them from the left-hand margin.

I make no apology for the fact that I have been inspired by his many teachings through his novels, sermons and poetry. He has brought into my life a refreshing approach to knowing God as who he really is, and seeing for the first time the purpose of Jesus the Christ in bringing the Good News from his heavenly Father.

What I see as the spiritual world order is quite simple. First, there is God --- one God --- no matter what name you might give him. There is also Jesus, God's son. He has always been in existence as far back as the beginning of our world --- probably even farther. God has always interacted with his creation throughout our history through prophets, signs and wonders. Even with all of that we seemed to constantly get it wrong. We particularly misunderstood his character as our father, as well as his desired relationship with us.

So he sent Jesus somewhere between B.C. and A.D our time, to teach us about his Father and to show us how to live with our brothers and sisters, and how we are to receive spiritual guidance. All of this is the good news (gospel).

Now, I realize that there are many religions in the world, many of which either don't know Christ, or, from their limited view of him, don't believe in him. No matter. If we are to leave this earthly vessel without getting it sorted out, we will have plenty of time to sort it out later. We are on a journey. The first part of our journey ends upon our death in this life. Death is but a door that we step through into a broader sensual experience --- an existence that will focus on our spiritual development, without the hindrance of physical woes.

I believe that all human creatures must go through the Son (Jesus) to reach the Father (God). The Biblical account in the Gospels reflects the earthly teaching by Jesus of heavenly things. We have enough information now to greatly enhance our journey. If we refuse to learn, or if some don't even have exposure to the truth, then Jesus will be waiting on the other side to resume (or begin) his teaching.

Here's the kicker. I could be wrong in all of this. If there is no God, then I have lived a life of joy and peace. However, I firmly believe that if there be a God, he will NOT burn me in Hell forever for getting my facts wrong. I desire to know his will --- in this life and the next. I trust in his love, rest in his care and hope for his sure guidance. He is my Father.
STEVE

A Penny For Your Thoughts

2007-03-08T02:30:00.000-08:00

We all have opinions. If you occasionally keep your opinions (and any other talk) to yourself, someone might ask what you're thinking about ("a penny for your thoughts"). In today's economy you might want to hold out for more money, or you may want to choose your response carefully, as the thought could be something negative about them.

On the other hand, if you are not asked --- and if you have strong opinions --- you could volunteer to put your "two cents worth" in. Folks I have known will more likely put several dollars worth in, and I am tempted to give most of it back in change.

Many people have enough knowledge about several subjects and can present such information in a way so as to regard them as teachers. What gives them that status is our willingness to trust that what they say is true. Whether in a formal classroom or a casual one-on-one encounter, it is a tremendous responsibility, because the one person is affecting other lives.

Opinion is as strong in the area of religion as it is in philosophy or politics. We can claim that the Bible is the final authority, but interpretation is the real player in this scenario. Some passages of scripture seem clear, some appear to be contradictory, and more than we care to admit are just plain confusing.

For this reason, if we believe in God, then we must believe that he desires for us to know the truth, in increasing measure, as we grow spiritually in this life. His truth (or direction) comes to us by someone conveying it to us (spoken or written) and by his still, small voice within us. The voice within is more often than not the confirmation or denial of the "truths" we received from others. We also will receive clarifications of sometimes difficult subject matter.

The really important thing is that we are not put here to convince others of anything. We may very well be vessels, used by God, to purvey knowledge or guidance, but we should never force acceptance of such information. He will turn the lights on when the time is right.

What we can do, though, is reinforce our belief with obedience. We must live each day doing his will, letting others see that he lives and moves within us. This obviously excludes any form of preaching or pestering. Since God is love, then love must be the primary motivator. In 1 Peter 3:15 we read, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." If your words and deeds are in obedience to your heavenly Father, the questions will certainly come.

Above all we must be patient in this pattern of learning and telling. We are to be ever aware of false teaching. That's why the apostle John wrote, "Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1) Patience is the form in which God works his will in us. There is plenty to do while we wait. All things are to be done to the glory of God.
STEVE

The Voice Within

2007-03-01T03:06:00.000-08:00

I once had a discussion with my Dad (God rest his soul) about whether . . .

[What does that mean, "God rest his soul?" Are we hoping that God will rest his soul? Will his soul be at unrest if we don't say it? Is it a cute little phrase in which we subtly indicate that the person is deceased? Are we imploring God to do just that? Just wondering.]

We had a bit of disagreement on whether it was all right to have women preachers. (My Dad's Methodist church had one.) I quoted Paul the Apostle, who said that he did not permit a woman to teach a man. Dad responded that he had also read that passage, had consulted commentaries and knowledgeable individuals; however, not getting a satisfactory answer, he said that he finally "went straight to The Source."

I have to admit that I was a little put out that he had a direct line to God, when I was the self-appointed Biblical expert in the family. He wasn't really clear about what the answer was, but he indicated that it was sufficient enough for him to accept his lady pastor.

Now that he's gone, I have often reflected on that comment about going directly to God. I know that we pray. And I know the classic response that Bible teachers and preachers will give --- God always answers: sometimes "yes", sometimes "no" and sometimes "wait." But am I really seeking his will for my life, or am I just presenting a shopping list of concerns --- or a gift registry for him to fill?

The heart of the matter is that God is always ready to teach us about everything we need for this life --- and some of what we will need for the next (or rather the continued) life. He encourages us to test the words of those around us who tell us about him, because they are human, with human frailties. He wants us to test the words of the Bible (his Word?), because it was written by frail humans.

The Holy Spirit is God's voice in us. Jesus promised it to us. He is Comforter, Admonisher and Teacher. Jesus? Yes. The Spirit? Yes. God? Absolutely!

Here's the problem. We don't listen. Enough. We know what we want to ask. We know what we want to hear. We know what we've been taught. If we have ears to hear, we MUST beware the "truth" of the religious majority. That's what Jesus warned about. The truth may well be there, but be willing (and daring) enough to seek God's confirmation --- in your own heart.

If you get it wrong, you'll know --- eventually. He is patient and loving, willing to correct and direct when we're willing to get the wax out of our ears. His discipline is a demonstration of his love, and the comforting, correcting voice will always follow. Listen.

Lord, do with me as you will.
STEVE

How Hot Is Hell?

2007-02-25T03:59:00.000-08:00

- or - Does Hell Ever Freeze Over?

Hell must be real because it gets so much attention in most dictionaries and encyclopedias. That's like saying, "It must be true. I read it on the internet!" So is it true? Is it a place, or is it a condition? Can we experience it in this life, or could it be awaiting us after death?

One thing consistent is that it seems to originate with God. We read about it in the Bible, mostly in the New Testament. But even there we find no complete thoughts that carefully explain its origin or purpose. We have enough, though, for preachers to use to instill fear into us and compel us to "accept Jesus" as our personal Savior. Beyond that it has become a household word to identify any unpleasant condition (this job has been hell), vain threat (there will be hell to pay) or idle curse (you go to hell!).

Let's break it down. If it is a place, who owns it? God? He owns everything, right? Satan (the Devil, Lucifer)? Or does he just run it? Some teach that the Bible says he will end up there forever. If he runs it, isn't he already there? If God owns it, does he have a purpose for it? Surely he couldn't have created it as an everlasting place of torment for feeble humans who have a limited lifespan of sinning. It doesn't appear that the punishment fits the crime. Or even worse --- an everlasting place of torment for simply not making a decision for Christ. I don't know of a single person that specifically rejects Christ because they want to take the dare or because they don't like God. They are simply confused, have doubts or are turned away by the hypocrisy of those who claim Christ. For this they should burn without end?

I am more inclined to see it as a condition, simply because we are able to experience it in this life. I honestly don't know whether, or how much, it involves heat, pain or outer darkness. I feel certain, though, that it has a purpose --- a purpose only known by God. If it is a place, he intends to ultimately close it down. Perpetual infliction of pain on his children whom he has created could never bring him glory. Redemption of them would.

If it is a state of being (i.e., torment of mind), then it is a perfecting process that brings us to a point in which we cry out with Christ, "My God, why have you forsaken me?" Refinement requires an often unpleasant method in which impurities are removed, leaving only the pure. As imperfect children of a perfect heavenly Father, we must do away with that which brings us down and keeps us from his loving arms. We cannot do it alone, and he will not abandon us. He will pursue our perfection even beyond the grave. That causes hope to surge in me whenever I fail --- which is often.

God is armed with Hell, and he's not afraid to use it.
STEVE

Going The Distance Without God

2007-02-20T02:27:00.000-08:00

Tennessee Ernie Ford used to insert quotations between his songs on at least one of his gospel albums. One I remembered, and have often quoted, is, "If God seems far away, who do you think moved?" The premise is that God, being ever faithful, immovable, is always near us, and that if we don't feel him, then we have moved away, presumably by our lack of faith and obedience. It made a lot of sense to me. It doesn't any more.

The lack of closeness is real enough, but I truly believe that it is God who has moved away from us. Why? Because of his discipline. He will never completely abandon us, but will leave us nonetheless for as long as it takes for us to realize our need for him. As parents we have difficulty being around bad behavior. We're particularly concerned when the bad behavior is in our own children.

When children misbehave there are several ways in which parents address the problem. One is not "sparing the rod." Proverbs 13:24 says, "He who spares the rod hates his son ... " The idea is that a truly caring parent will use harsh means (paddle, hickory switch, etc.) to "break the will, but not break the spirit" of an unruly child. Another method, advocated by child psychologists, is to calmly explain the situation to the child, sort of putting the child on an adult level, in which informative conversation will bring understanding, thus rendering good behavior. Many parents also use "time out" as a means for discipline. The child is placed alone (i.e., standing in the corner), with no comforts (TV, books, music, video) in order to consider his or her bad behavior until they realize the error of their ways.

It seems that God uses some of all three. Bad things happen to us (health, circumstances) as discipline, or so that others may see how we handle adversity. Both bring glory to God. In Hebrews 12:11 we read, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful." Pain sensors are placed in our bodies to alert us to areas that are in distress. Discipline is God's way of saying, "I haven't forgotten you. I care enough about you to punish you." We don't always know the reason for the punishment, but we know the punisher. He is never unfair, always faithful and full of compassion and love.

God also uses the written word (portions of the Bible --- or other writings), the spoken word (family, friend or foe) or the still, small voice to discuss things with us. Sometimes we see it as a lecture, when he really wants it to be a dialogue. He wants us to talk through it and begin to see what he desires for us.

While the discipline and discussions are ongoing, it is the distance (time out) that has the greatest effect on us. When we don't feel his arms around us is when we feel the most miserable. The fact is that our Heavenly Father will not embrace unruly children. He will wipe away a tear, remind us that pain is but for a season --- even kiss us tenderly, briefly in the midst of turmoil --- but will again step away so that discipline may accomplish its goal.

The most severe form of discipline is when we have neither word nor strap --- only utter darkness. I'm not sure how much of that is experienced in our earthly existence. Here we have constant reminders of his presence. But I believe in a journey beyond where discipline must complete its work. Where the most stubborn of children must experience the weeping and gnashing of teeth, the intense desire for human contact (even from an enemy), the need for a breath of wind on the cheek, the hope of even a glimmer of light. That would be hell indeed.

These are heavy words, but we must be encouraged that God's great love brings forth the perfect, appropriate level and length of his discipline. There is an end to our perfecting process. A crown of glory awaits those who will give him glory. The beauty of it all is that he has given us a choice to be obedient sons and daughters, to bask in his love anytime that we so desire.

Oh, and by the way, I'm pretty sure that God doesn't count to ten. It never works.
STEVE

... Truth, Justice and the American Way

2007-02-15T02:38:00.000-08:00

I was only six years old when the Man of Steel first appeared on my little black-and-white TV screen. Along with my other hero, the Lone Ranger (and one comedian, Jerry Lewis), these were the characters that I imitated on a daily basis. Two years later I was fitted for glasses, but, no problem --- the mild mannered Clark Kent (aka Superman) wore glasses too!

George Reeves balked at the role in the beginning, but went on to ride the cape of stardom for five years. However, his life was anything but super. As depicted in the recent film, Hollywoodland, starring Ben Affleck, Reeves constantly fought the ups and downs of his career, ending his life tragically with what was ruled a suicide. Struggling private detective Louis Simo, played by Adrian Brody, determinedly pursued the possibilty that George could have been murdered. However, after methodically ruling out the usual suspects, he seems to realize at the end of the film that the superhero just had nothing to live for.

Ten years later another tall, handsome actor would bring the Superman role to the big screen. Christopher Reeve (no relation) would easily depict similar character qualities of Superman, both in film, as well as in his personal life. George Reeves' life was a shamble. Christopher Reeve's life was going great, until his own tragedy struck in 1995, when he was paralyzed in an equestrian accident. In 2004 his life ended due to an infection. George Reeves partied and was manipulated by others. Christopher Reeve was generous and was a loving husband and father. Where is the justice?

True justice can never be realized until complete reconciliation is achieved. We can only experience a taste of that in this life. God does the rest in whatever time it takes for him to do it. One of the problems that we have is our shortsightedness, the inability to see how things will ultimately turn out. All we see is the end of things. Severed relationships, murders committed, divorces issued, life sentences --- and death, either at the hand of another, by our own hand or by accident or disease. God sees the reconciliation of all things --- everything made right.

For example, what if someone were to murder a member of your family? You may very well feel that justice had been rendered if the criminal were sentenced to life in prison or death, but it doesn't bring your loved one back. You may even forgive, but you'll not likely forget. Repentance on the part of the offender not only means turning from the life of crime, but involves a deep sense of remorse that desires to reverse time and fully supports the punishment he or she deserves. Full reconciliation requires a long-term, one-on-one contact between the parties needing to be reconciled. It is a slow process that merges the hearts into one spirit and puts to death finally any wrongdoing or emotional baggage.

I believe that God has designed for this unfinished business to be accomplished, even after this life, as we know it, is done. Another factor to consider is that victims, as in all lives, never really die. Having your child/parent/sibling/spouse/friend returned to you on the other side will help toward reconciliation with the perpetrator, but you will find that the burden is still before you. In order to stand before our Heavenly Father with pure hearts, we must be reconciled to those we have offended, as well as to those who have offended us. There's no other way. Perfect completeness. This is Jesus' role, given him by his father --- to continue to teach us obedience, love and reconciliation.

The Bible speaks clearly of this. In 2 Corinthians 5:18 and 19 we read, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world [emphasis mine] to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation."

Life is a journey. The Lord urges us to begin reconciliation here and now. His word never returns to him void. It will come to completion. We are his children.
STEVE

The Man from S.I.N.

2007-02-11T02:44:00.000-08:00

Every day of our lives we make choices. Most are routine but can have some interesting results. Should I tie my shoes? Not doing so could be painful when you try to move around. Should I wear the blue shirt or the white shirt? Disaster awaits the white shirt if you're having chili dogs for lunch. Choices increase in seriousness as you apply them to goals or responsibilities in life. They become critical in the light of how we deal with people because they then impact other lives.

We can do good, or we can do bad. We can do good just by not doing bad. The bad choices built up over our lives give us soiled independent natures (S.I.N.). Sin is bad. It causes us to move backward in our life's journey. Sin is commonly understood to be breaking God's law, but in reality it is breaking God's heart. It makes us unruly children, and unruly children are unwilling to learn.

Sin has been sensationalized, even by those who have allegedly come out of it. "Let me tell you [in detail] the bad things I was mixed up in," says the celebrity, born-again believer. Sin can have dramatic effect if it is used to embarass one who is trying to do good. It says, "I am in control. Nobody can tell me what to do. Isn't it fun to be a little naughty sometime?" In more subtle ways --- and without an audience --- it speaks to you as judgmental behavior, disguised as the voice of reason.

In the final analysis we really only have one choice. To step away from the bad, and step toward the good. Move from the darkness into the light. We may need to stand still for a moment to get our bearings, but then we must step out. We cannot remain neutral. The New Testament writer James says, "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."

Condemnation is a strong term, used by fiery preachers to frighten us into submission. In reality God has plenty of time and an abundance of forgiveness with which to discipline and restore his wayward children. Does this mean that we can have "sinful fun" like the "decadent chocolate" ads, and do what we want because we can always "clean up our act" later? Of course not. God knows that our actions always have consequences. He's well aware that our sinful behavior is not real pleasure and, like the serpent, turns to bite us, bringing sadness, hopelessness or misery in the end.

Our eyes reveal to us where we are going. God's Spirit whispers where we should be going. Repentance is that changing of direction, the leaving of that which hinders, and following that which strengthens. Because we are his children, this process is ongoing in everyone. We don't always see it because we don't see people as he sees them. Our journey, however, will bring us to the point where we can have ears to hear, and eyes to behold the glory of his work within his creation. The completion of all things is at hand.
STEVE

I Am What I Need

2007-02-06T18:34:00.000-08:00

Whenever Olive Oil tried to get her boyfriend, Popeye the Sailor Man, to change his ways, he would always snap back with, "Olives, I yam whut I yam!"

Regardless of who others think we are, who we think we are or who we have become, at the deepest level we really are who we are --- unique, individual children created by the Living God. At the core of our being is a pure form; it's how we began and where we will one day return to. Who we have become is very much shaped by our never-ending needs in life, whether real or imagined.

As we become adults the needs begin to define who we are --- with sometimes pretty ugly results. The drug addict needs another fix. The alcoholic needs another drink. The rapist needs a perverted control over a helpless victim. Needs are not always reflective of negative characterizations. The abused wife needs shelter and love. The elderly shut-in needs companionship and compassion. The despondent student needs direction and hope.

Needs are layered on us over time. The green ogre Shrek (in Shrek) told Donkey that "ogres are like onions with many layers." Peel back an onion, and you still have onion. Our layers, however, have more often than not changed us in nature from our beginnings, made us into an image that God didn't intend for us. As we draw closer to him we find that the unwanted layers cannot exist in his presence. We go through a process in which they are removed. Our growing heart knowledge of him is the catalyst that produces this change.

Many false prophets have come out among us, attempting to tell us who God is, but their efforts are only for the purpose of effecting control or receiving personal gain. Some aren't consciously aware that these are their motives. We must ask God for discernment around those who would reveal him to us. Some are very close to him.

Prior to around 25 A.D prophets (and some priests) were the only connection between God and man. But God saw fit to send one of his own, his son Jesus. Jesus walked, talked and acted like his father. Through the written word of his words in the Gospels and the inner working of his Spirit, we can approach the Father through the Son.

We need Jesus. He said that he was the ONLY way to the Father. As we get to know his Son, God begins to come into focus, the layers wither, and we emerge from the person we're not. We become who we really are. It will eventually happen, but how precious it would be if it would happen on earth. Let it begin today.
STEVE

He Sees You When You're Sleeping

2007-02-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not talking about Santa Claus. I'm talking about God. Isn't it interesting, though, how we can use our imaginations (a gift from God, by the way) to justify all the remarkable things that Santa can do --- get down tight-fitting, smoke-filled chimneys; eat enough milk and cookies that would choke a horse; fly around in the sky without falling out of the sled; deliver presents to a gazillion kids in just one night; and remember in detail the wish lists AND the naughty-and-nice lists. Even Hollywood computer geeks can dazzle us with video wizardry that makes the above mentioned feats (and more) seem visually believable.

I guess that's why so many people have trouble believing that a Supreme Being can oversee and interact with all creation 24/7. I can't tell you how many times I have been asked by skeptics, "How could God possibly be everywhere at the same time, answer (or at least listen to) every prayer and change the course of history to exert his will?" I don't know why. I don't have an answer. But I don't feel the need to figure it out before I'll believe that he IS. I can only say that for myself I am constantly aware of his presence, encouraging me, challenging me --- even admonishing me. And as I obey, doing the good that he tells me to do, I find that the things he doesn't want for me are easier to resist.

Jesus said in Matthew 10:29 that even a sparrow cannot fall to the ground apart from the will of God. Another one of those things I can't explain, but I see his hand at work in EVERYTHING in our lives. All things that happen to us have a purpose. Pain, sorrow, laughter, anger, riches, poverty, disaster --- the list is endless. The problem is that we demand to know the purpose so that we can make sense of it. I suspect that someday we will know all of the purposes, but not today, maybe not even in this lifetime.

Another sad reflection in my, at least, partially failed parenting, was that whenever my children would weary me with constant questions, I would more often than not resort to a pat answer, "Because the sky is blue." Funny, I don't remember any of them actually asking WHY the sky was blue.

God doesn't give me pat answers to my questions. He asks me to wait, and just trust him, and obey. I find that whenever this becomes a pattern in my life, he tends to give me answers to the questions that I didn't ask. And while I can't often remember what was in my dreams, I have this gut feeling that he's been feeding me information while I was sleeping. He's like that, you know.
STEVE

Beholding Beauty

2007-01-31T17:58:00.000-08:00

I heard someone say recently that there is a logical answer to the question, "If a trees falls in the forest, and no one hears it, does it make a sound?" The commentator said that in order for sound to be sound, there must be a sound wave combined with a receiver (i.e., a recorder, an antenna, our ear, etc.). So the answer would be that the tree doesn't make a sound unless there is a receiver to complete the process.

Can beauty be beautiful if no one witnesses it? In my 40+ years of being around adult males in the military and the workplace, I can probably tell you that when you mention the word "beautiful" to a man, you will likely trigger a thought that involves women. Immature males will tend to regard the opposite sex as ugly, homely, cute, attractive, gorgeous or beautiful. Women will ascribe beauty to babies, puppies or heart-rending, happy-ending love stories. Artists of all kinds will see the beauty in their music or paintings or sculpture.

Beautiful is described as that which is pleasing to one or more of the senses, at a level that would give the subject a top rating. But while senses are always involved, real beauty goes well beyond surface aknowledgement. Even one of the characters in the Country Bear Jamboree at Disney World sings, "My woman ain't purty, but she don't swear none ...," recognizing that there are endearing qualities besides physical beauty.

A beautiful man or woman, for example, may behave so badly that the outer beauty fades and begins to not look so noteworthy. Inversely, someone who is not so "good looking" may be so overflowing with graciousness and a sweet spirit that, over time, the senses begin to see a real beauty, thus reconditioning them toward a better standard of judgment.

We get our "beholding" from God, our Father, who is always beautiful inside and out. He created us beautiful and packaged us individually (warts and all) so that we may learn to seek out and appreciate the beauty that HE sees in us. We are surrounded by physical beauty in land and sky and ocean, for which we give thanks daily. But nothing surpasses the beauty that is found in the human spirit. He gives us the creative spirit --- and the mandate --- to see beauty where none is apparent, and to encourage and bring that beauty to the surface, that we might walk in his ways as brilliant bouquets of life.
STEVE

Like Father, Like Son

2007-01-28T01:27:00.000-08:00

I never really knew my Dad. When he died in 2002, my aunt presented me with some information and a photograph which made me question if he was my real father. Reflecting on my past, I realized that my Dad and I got along OK, but we were never close. I know that many children do not get close to one parent or the other (or to either parent), but looking back it seemed that I was regarded more as an attachment to my Dad, rather than a son. On the other hand, my grandson can wiggle his ears just like my Dad. Go, figure.

Throughout the ages many have attempted to understand and make contact with our Creator. Lacking any specific, verifiable evidence, gods were developed to serve the purposes of man. Much like astrology, with its hit-and-miss prophecies, religious leaders would offer sacrifices and arrange elaborate rituals to appease the force that seemed to be guiding their lives. How easy it has been to control others by "revealing" that God wants this or that, and will bless or curse if we don't follow the leader's direction.

The Jews had a hit-and-miss relationship with God as recorded in the Old Testament. He walked in the garden with Adam, then condemned both Adam and Eve. Later he contacted Noah with a special assignment. Then he visited Abrahm, Isaac, and Jacob. Then Moses. Then some deliverers in Judges. Finally several prophets and kings. But as history unfolded, God's personal visits came few and far between.

What we really needed was someone to come directly from God and Heaven and tell us --- even show us --- what he and his Homeland were really like. Then came Jesus.

It doesn't much matter to me if he was born as a baby, or just showed up at John's baptismal service (like Melchizedek did to Abraham). As I stated in an earlier article, when he spoke as a man about his relationship with his heavenly Father, I was convinced. He told his disciples, "If you have seen me, you have seen the Father. The Father and I are one." Now, some make the case that the second person of the Trinity [father, SON, and holy ghost] was just God in the flesh; otherwise, we would be worshipping two Gods. That he had this elaborate scheme in which he talked to himself and quoted himself --- in a sense, a form of duplicity that challenged our intelligence, in that we couldn't trust information from just one source.

However, Jesus told us that he came from his Father. That he prayed to his Father. That he spoke his Father's words. That he always obeyed his Father. That only his Father knew about the timing of the end. And that he was returning to his Father. And I believe him. If God could wiggle his ears, then so could Jesus.

One day I will be reconciled to two of my earthly fathers --- and one heavenly Father. And, joining with many brothers and sisters, alongside my big brother, Jesus, what a glorious day that will be!
STEVE

Things I Want To Be . . .

2007-01-24T17:45:00.000-08:00

1. I want to be joyful.
In the Sony Pictures film The Pursuit of HAPPYness Will Smith plays a down-and-out single father (based on the true story of Chris Gardner) who struggles to overcome numerous setbacks in order to make a decent living for himself and his son (played by Will's own son, Jaden Smith). The film was very moving and well done, but it made me think about the difference between happiness and joyfulness.

Chris uses a tremendous amount of aggressiveness and determination --- not to mention hard work --- in order to finally make the transition from failing bone density scanner salesman to successful stockbroker. Happiness was always triggered by an object or event. A bed to sleep in (when they were homeless), a hot meal, a check to cash or a positive reception (such as the interview for the internship). Between these brief highs were lengthy lows filled with tension.

True joyfulness, on the other hand, goes well beyond the periodic beats of mental well-being. When we have a gathering and sustaining realization that God IS in control, and that our troubles have not been overlooked by him, that they are, indeed, used for our spiritual growth and development, then we will know joy. Joy that endures roadblocks, sadness and hardship.

2. I want to be loving.
Two passages in the New Testament pretty much say it all with regard to love in the highest order: Galatians 5:22, 23 (which lists characteristics alongside love that are really driven by it); and I Corinthians 13:4-8.

Love is joyful. It not only has joy, but spreads it. It's infectious.

Love is peaceful. It exudes calmness in the face of turmoil.

Love is patient. It doesn't fret, doesn't stress --- and doesn't tap its foot and point to its watch.

Love is kind. It doesn't believe in random acts of kindness. It's always kind.

Love is being good. It wants to portray an example of positive behavior that builds up, not tears down.

Love is faithful. It doesn't give up on you. It doesn't try to replace you. It doesn't even look at anyone else.

Love is gentle. It displays its strength in its humility. It treats the infant and the idiot with equal tenderness.

Love is in control of itself. It doesn't have to be boastful or prove anything or defend itself. It lets God do that.

Love does not envy. It needs nothing but what the heavenly Father provides.

Love is not rude. It seeks to meet other's needs, rather than its own.

Love does not get angry. It's fully aware that even "righteous anger" is probably not what God wanted it to act out.

Love keeps no record of wrongs. Past failures are just that --- in the past. TODAY is the day of salvation; TODAY you can turn your life around, with God's help.

Love doesn't delight in evil. It shuns it. Light and darkness cannot live together.

Love LOVES truth. It's so much easier to love when you don't have the baggage of lies and deception. Love's heart is laid bare.

Love always protects. It will not participate in tearing someone apart or humiliating them.

Love always trusts. Like an innocent child, love will reach out --- even when that trust is tried and found wanting.

Love always hopes. It sees the sunshine after the rain, the light at the end of the tunnel, the new flower bursting forth from the once-frozen ground.

Love always perseveres. It never gives up. It will always get back on its feet when knocked down. It will always reach for the Father's hand.

Love never fails. It's the one thing that binds our world together, across cultural divides, across doctrines, across political differences. It keeps the love-light ever burning.

I WANT TO BE JOYFUL and LOVING. What else could I possibly need?
STEVE

Things I Don't Want To Be ... Part 4

2007-01-22T17:51:00.000-08:00

10. I don't want to be possessive.
George Carlin once did a comedy skit about our obsessions with our possessions. He said we're always looking for a place to put our "stuff." That a house is just a pile of stuff with a cover on it. That you've got to move to a bigger house, primarily because you've got more stuff. And how YOUR stuff is always more important than THEIR stuff. Even when you go on vacation, you're faced with the dilemma of how much stuff to pack, how much stuff to buy, etc..

We're born naked. We die empty-handed. In between is just stuff. My mother often said, "You never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul." And after my folks died, we did have to get a U-Haul to relocate their stuff.

Jesus said that we are to build up treasures in heaven, where moth and rust can't destroy, and thieves can't steal. I honestly don't believe that he would begrudge us our creature comforts. But when our focus is on acquiring, collecting or hoarding things, then we quickly forget the treasures that last, like kindness, generosity, caring and loving --- people, not things.

We can also be jealous and possessive of our time, an individual, our church or our hobby, to the point that our behavior reveals our unhealthy appetite. An appetite that grows. We can become enslaved by our possessions and not really enjoy them at all.

This may seem simplistic, but I see all the things that I have as on loan from God. Matthew 10:8 says, "Freely you have received, freely give." No, I'm not going to give you my address so that you can come and loot my house. (God may not want you to have it either.) But I'm learning more and more about sharing with those he has put in my path. And my wife and I are committed to freeing ourselves of our possessions before we proceed on our heavenly journey. We hope to have no U-Haul reserved for our stuff.

11. I don't want to be plagued by evil desires.
If you Google the term "evil desires," 16 out the first 20 hits will reveal sites that refer to sex either directly or indirectly. And 13 of the 16 are of a religious nature. The same search using just the word "desire" returns only 5 of 20 hits with any reference to sex. In my opinion sex is getting way too much play in what is really a more serious subject (which can include sex) --- that being pure desire that leads one to perform evil deeds.

For the record desire can be either positive or negative. I can desire to walk in God's will. I can desire that my children be loving, caring adults. These desires prompt me to pray to God, encourage my children and do things that will support these healthy goals. However, if I desire to see someone "get what they deserve," to take what isn't mine, to tell someone off or to be above someone in knowledge, good health, strength or possessions, then my desire is most unhealthy.

James (Bible, NT) points out that desire itself is not the sin, but is rather the seedbed for sin. That kind of desire springs from temptation, germinates, then gives birth to sin. The horror of it is that such a concoction begins in your mind. And it's difficult to turn it off. What can we do?

The first thing is to bring it to light. No, don't go blabbing it to everyone. If you have someone very close that you trust for wise counsel, it really does help to talk about it. But most importantly, confess it to the Creator of both mind and spirit. He's not likely to switch off the desire immediately. We are made free, which includes freedom to fail. But he will forgive you, love you and help you to redirect your thoughts to more noble ones. I really like the Apostle Paul's words in Philippians, Chapter 4: "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."

Next up: Things I Want To Be . . .
STEVE

Things I Don't Want To Be . . . Part 3

2007-01-21T03:56:00.000-08:00

7. I don't want to be afraid.
Fear is related to cowardice but goes much further in that it spans a broad spectrum ranging from mild apprehension to absolute terror. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of danger, fear of sickness, fear of job loss, fear of death, fear of the unknown. You name it, you can be afraid of it. Some folks have a fear that good things won't last.

There is such a thing as healthy fear. I once was smacked in the head by a 1,000+ pound stallion. I don't dread horses now, but fear taught me to not make any sudden moves around them. The same healthy fear can protect you around high voltage electricity, steep mountain climbs, deadly weather conditions and the perils of war.

Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." The Bible says, "Perfect love drives out fear." When you feel the warmth of love, and find yourself loving in return, you may realize that there is no room left for fear.

8. I don't want to be anxious.
Along with it's companions, cowardice and fear, worry completes the package of mind-troubling conditions. A contemporary Christian group years ago produced a song called Today Is The Tomorrow That I Was Worried About Yesterday. It never made it as a hit, but it had a catchy tune and an awesome title. Whereas fear can, at times, prepare you for the worst, worry is just plain dumb.

Worry has to do with being anxious over things that are absolutely out of your control. Many times it is anticipation over events or actions that never materialize. Jesus asks, "Who, by worrying, can add one hour to his or her life? And who, by worrying, can add one inch to their height?" Medical science tells us that there is no proven connection between worry and gray hair. But anyone can "pull their hair out" over such a condition.

I find comfort in believing and accepting the fact that I am right where God wants me to be. If I am miserable, there is a purpose in it; I can learn from it. If I am joyful, enjoy the moment; don't stress over how long it will last. If "ignorance is bliss," then let me be stupid.

9. I don't want to be self-centered.
I've read that people who are such have a low self-esteem, and their behavior reinforces their need for acceptance and validation. The result is usually disappointing because nobody wants to be around them. As I see it we have two challenges to consider. First, how do I avoid being self-centered? A simple and effective solution is ask-and-answer. Be inquisitive of those around you. If you're not being asked a question, then ask one. If you are asked about yourself or your opinion, then answer with humility. Don't launch into a lengthy soliloquy that eventually puts people to sleep or makes them regret asking.

The second challenge is much more difficult to me: how to respond to people who are self-centered. I know the correct answer is to love them, but that's easier said than done. Our tendency is to say or do things that will shut them down (or at least shut them up), but that only ends in hurt. It takes practice and patience, but the goal is to briefly confirm that which is honorable in them, then redirect the conversation away from themselves to a mutual concern with more skillfully placed questions. Above all we must take care with our tone, choice of words and body language. Failure in any of these can hurt, and hurt deeply. I'm still working on both of these challenges. Pray for me.

Almost done. Stay with me.
STEVE

Things I Don't Want To Be . . . Part 2

2007-01-18T18:55:00.000-08:00

4. I don't want to be unfair.
Since the beginning of time someone has cheated someone else. Jacob cheated Esau out of his birthright. King David cheated Uriah out of his wife (Bathsheba). Crooked merchants rigged their scales. Hank Williams Jr. wailed about Your Cheatin' Heart. Politicians cheated voters with underhanded polling practices.

Fairness is sought after in all aspects of our lives. Personal relationships, business affairs, sports events, to name a few. There's a common term to describe fairness; it's called "a level playing field." All players get an equal chance at winning the game based upon their own skills, neither team having an unfair advantage. Even in football the teams will switch ends each quarter to account for conditions, such as wind direction or the position of the sun.

Solomon tells his son in Proverbs 1:3 to "do what is right and just and fair." Many times unfairness is given in retaliation for unfairness received (or perceived). We must break this ugly cycle and promote fairness at all cost. God gives us the opportunity to level the playing field --- before he brings in the steam roller.

5. I don't want to be a pity party participant.
I write from experience. My precious wife has endured several of mine over our 38.5 years together. Interestingly enough, the word "pity" is quite honorable as a term that properly launches compassion, sympathy or empathy. It becomes dark when we turn it inward and let it breed misery or anger or frustration. Jesus taught us to deny ourselves. I believe he meant that by directing our attention to others, really caring, sincerely listening, obeying his direction for reaching out, we realize, first of all, that we are not alone --- a definite prerequisite for a decent pity party ("Woe is me; nobody loves me; everybody hates me ... I'm too sick, I'm too broke, etc."). Secondly, we are where God wants us to be --- even if it hurts for now. He IS speaking to you. You just can't hear him over the pity party favors. Be still, and know.

6. I don't want to be a coward.
Coward is a funny word because it seems like it should refer to the direction of cattle. But it gets its root from the latin word "cauda", meaning "tail." Combined with a French term it means, figuratively, to "turn tail." An animal faced with danger and losing the fight would typically tuck its tail and run. Coward can only be applied when danger or threat is faced, the result being not forcefully advancing, not advancing at all, or downright fleeing.

A necessary part of our development is this opportunity to face some sort of danger. Our bodies are designed to secrete adrenalin for just such occasions. The important thing, however, is to realize that fearing an enemy or an event does not label us as utter failures. It labels us as human. God's children, in fact. As we mature in his love and learn to obey his will, we will find it easier to face regular threats with boldness.

Oh, yeah, there's more to come.
STEVE

Things I Don't Want To Be . . .

2007-01-16T19:19:00.000-08:00

1. I don't want to be mean.
I've come to realize over the years that I have a serious face. Corners of the mouth turned down. Squinty, cloudy eyes that seem to be devoid of expression. I once had a boss who asked me why I was scowling. I didn't know I was scowling. In fact, inside I was feeling quite cheerful. However, being a contemplative, detail-oriented person (with a little obsessive-compulsiveness thrown in), I often forget that my face has slipped into neutral. Gotta work on that.

Movie cowboys used to say that an ornery person was "meaner than a rattlesnake." I guess that meant that the person (or snake) was ready to strike out at you for no apparent reason. Mean people appear to be absent of feeling, but inside they are just miserable. Beneath the bad behavior is a child of God who desperately needs love. Some have become so hardened that they reject any measure of kindness. But love is the most powerful force on our planet. Never underestimate it. And never, ever return meanness with a bigger helping of the same.

2. I don't want to be someone I am not.
"What you see is what you get." That line is used by folks who think that they are like that, but are very rarely anywhere near it. You see, our natural tendency is to adjust our behavior to favor someone we want to impress. We act attentive, complimentary, disturbed, angry, tough, bored, caring, empathetic, sympathetic, etc. --- with the purpose only to redirect the attention back to our own selves. Oh sure, we SAY we don't. And many times we may not even want to. But looking back afterwards, we are disappointed to realize that we did. God wants us to be who we are. He takes us as we are. Then, if we will let him, he will shape our character to a true level of openness and honesty that brings out the genuine best in others, as well as in ourselves.

3. I don't want to be a liar.
Putting aside the question, "Is it ever OK to lie?," (i.e., Rahab and the spies), liars are difficult people to live with. They receive the label by telling a few whopping lies, or by offering up a steady stream of untruths. Professional liars can even reach a point to where they can't separate truth from falsehood. The real danger here is that trust is violated. And trust is very difficult to restore once it has been crippled. Jesus said to let your "no" be "no" and your "yes" be "yes". "Anything beyond this comes from the evil one," he warned. And women, please, PLEASE, do not torment your men with questions like, "Honey, does this outfit make me look fat?" We're trying to do better, but there's no safe answer for those kind.

More to come. Stay tuned.
STEVE

Woodshed Theology

2007-01-12T18:14:00.000-08:00

Some years ago in a crusade message Billy Graham told the story of a heated argument between a teenager and his father. At one point the young man blurted out, "I didn't ask to be born!," to which the father replied, "Yes, and if you had, the answer would have been NO!"

It's true. We didn't ask to be born, but is that really a valid response to a life that isn't quite what we expected it to be? Who wouldn't want to live, as long as the conditions are always to our satisfaction? Plenty of money, excellent health and being surrounded by loving friends and family.

Discipline is a sensitive subject for me to write about. I grew up learning to obey the rules. In the military I was compelled to obey the rules. As a parent I enforced the rules. With all three experiences punishment was the method for restoring and maintaining order. While discipline and punishment are necessary to our development, I was clueless as to what they really meant. And for this I owe my daughters a great apology.

Discipline and punishment are often (but wrongly) used interchangeably to mean the same thing. Punishment is never effective if it breaks the spirit, causes lasting resentment or results in the punishee changing behavior only so as not to get caught, thus receiving more punishment. True discipline says, "I love you too much to allow you to behave badly." Now I never expected my drill sergeant to use that line on me. Military discipline is designed to bring a cohesive, single-minded structure to a unit with specific strategic goals. This type of training does tend to bring a measure of self-discipline into the life of the soldier that is often helpful following his or her tour of duty.

Discipline of our children, however, is much broader. It combines equal portions of love and tempered sternness to bring out the best behavior --- behavior that will mature, operate independently and be a vital source with which to raise the next generation. So how can we understand true discipline?

We get our cues from our Heavenly Father and his Son Jesus. I learned from God's rule book (the Bible) how to do good, but I never felt his love. Certainly not as I am now experiencing it. Looking back I can now see both his love and discipline at work in my life. Even while I wasn't getting it, he continued to care for me. He cared for me enough to let trials and stresses and heart attacks and failures and tears come into my life, not to harden me, but to mold me into his image. It's an ongoing process, and I am confident that he will see it through to perfection.

In an odd sort of way, discipline without love still gives a sense of security. But how much greater is guiding, loving, correcting, loving, directing? And did I mention Loving? That's exactly what we're getting from above every single day. Go and do likewise.
STEVE

Salvation Nation

2007-01-10T18:03:00.000-08:00

I'm currently reading a book by Professor Stephen Prothero (Boston University) called American Jesus: How the Son of God Became a National Icon. In it he charts the various approaches to Jesus throughout our nation's history from the Sacrificial Jesus of the Puritans and Jonathan Edwards to the Sweet Savior of D.L. Moody and Ira Sankey, from the Manly Jesus of Billy Sunday to the Hollywood Jesus (Jesus Christ, Superstar), from the Hippie Jesus of the Woodstock environment to the Successful Jesus (Dale Carnegie)... And on and on it goes.

But the common denominator over all these years has been the need for Jesus, in whatever form, from professed believers to the sub-cultures and even counter-cultures. Why? Quite simply, because we all need a Savior.

The broad road of Christianity is populated with those who have been taught, and thus believe, that his mission was to save us from a destiny in Hell because of our sins; that God means to harm us horribly if we don't "accept Jesus" as our Personal Savior and believe that he died in our place (even though we still must die), and all of our sins (past, present and future) will not be counted against us. Say the words, snap on the WWJD bracelet, and you're good to go.

The thing is, though, that Jesus himself never seems to talk about that. He did, however, talk plenty about how we are to live to be at peace and to please our Heavenly Father. You see, the greatest enemy of me is ME. I can't cop out with the well-worn phrase, "The Devil made me do it," because he DIDN'T. To be sure he TOLD me to do it, but he didn't actually "pull the trigger," so to speak.

We have this thing in us called Pride. The kind of pride that makes you boastful, arrogant, defensive, jealous and sometimes downright mean. I don't know where it came from, but it's the most used, multi-purpose Leatherman in Satan's tool belt. And I'm sure you have, as have I, met someone who will point out to you their lack of pride, thus demonstrating to you once again its power. Many times you don't even see it coming. As someone once said to me, "I might as well pat my own back; nobody else will."

Being a true Christian isn't rocket science. God wants us to have justice and mercy. Always do what's right (justice) and be kind and compassionate (mercy). Jesus taught us how to do it, then showed us how to do it. But he didn't have an ounce of pride. There's the rub. He died because his disciples were dull of hearing while he was with them in the flesh, and he told them so. He died so that the Heavenly Energizer (Holy Spirit) could come and remind them, with even more teaching, of the things they had heard. He told them that too.

We have his words. We have his Spirit. We just need to do the task that's set before us. When we recognize in the journey that we ARE accomplishing justice and mercy, then we're not as far along as we thought, because Pride will always take the credit. But when our lives become so immersed in the presence of the Father and the Son that we DON'T realize that we are, in fact, practicing justice and mercy ... aah then, Perfection is not far off.

And that's where he wants us to be.
STEVE

Something To Die For

2007-01-08T17:45:00.000-08:00

Two major events pierce our human existence on a regular basis, those being Birth and Death. One is greeted with joy, the other brings mourning. The purpose of birth is to populate the earth, as well as form a new creation in the likeness of father and mother. One purpose of death could be to de-populate the earth.

Outside of a few who claim to have lived previous lives, we all recognize that our beginnings only go back as far as we can remember, coupled with the testimony of those witnessing our birth. However, no one as yet has come back from the Other Side to explain the unknown in sufficient detail with credibility, in my opinion. Jesus did. Lazarus did too, but nobody recorded what he said about his time in the tomb for four days. And Jesus had plenty to say about the afterlife BEFORE he died. Because he had come from there.

Benjamin Franklin said, "But in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." Some might want to add that they live in a country that is certain of death BY taxes. We all face the end of our lives in different ways. Lives snuffed out quickly in an accident or murder. Lingering diseases that end with the disease winning. Or bodies just wearing out and needing an eternal rest. In all cases the body must respond to the ultimate summons --- and yield.

I think that, since the end is inevitable, we should shift our focus to the purpose. Here's some basics, if you choose to believe them: Death is not a coffin, but a door; God loves you and wants you to trust him; You may be VERY surprised to find that what is beyond that door was not what you had expected (or had been taught); finally, God so wants you to live life to the full each day, because death is not the end, but more life with even greater experiences.

Jesus spoke a lot about doing his Father's will. He was the consummate, obedient Son. His death wasn't an accident. (By the way, you often hear, "He/she met an untimely death." Since when is it ever a good time to die?) Jesus died because God wanted him to experience everything that we felt and feared. The greatest importance of his death was that he was WILLING to die. No other voice could deter him from this mission.

God has mapped out a plan for each of us. We're on his time timetable. Our lives are filled with purpose. Our deaths are timely. By living or dying, we will always affect the lives of those around us. The writer to the Hebrews (NT) says that as long as it is called TODAY, we can change the course of our lives by becoming obedient to our creator. It is not likely that any of us will be literally nailed to a cross, but by following Christ we can willingly face any tribulation and, when the time comes, say, "It is finished. Into your hands I commit my spirit."

That's my prayer.
STEVE

Obedience is Neat

2007-01-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

Can't get that song out of my head --- You're one brick short of a load now, brother / ... / you're one fry short of a Happy Meal / ... / To pick you up, back on your feet / obedience is neat ... It's a little ditty by FFH called "Big Fish". It plays off of the story about Jonah (in the Bible, go to Psalms and take a right). You see, God wanted Jonah to obey. Jonah fled. God REALLY wanted Jonah for this mission, so he sent forth a series of unfortunate events. Jonah obeyed. Mistake Number Two was that Jonah presumed to know the outcome of his obedient act and was disappointed in the results. The book sadly ends without us knowing if Jonah finally understood. But my gut feeling is that he eventually got it. I also think the whole trip was as much for Jonah's development as it was for the repentance of the Ninevites.

We all are subject to someone. Parents. Siblings. Teachers. Supervisors. Even partnerships have a managing partner; CEO's report to the Board of Directors. The list is endless. There would be no leaders if there were no followers, and the result would be chaos. At the end of the day all creation is accountable to God.

Jesus said, "My yoke is easy, my burden light." He also said, "The first shall be last, and the last shall be first." But he was tasked by his heavenly Father to issue universal commands; slave and master alike are to obey him. He issued a number of imperatives, which I readily accept as commands. However, it seems that most every time he used the word "obey", the closest command in the proximity of that word was to love.

Over the years I have experienced being in authority, as well as being under the thumb of oppressive authority. But recently I have experienced the refreshing, freeing feeling of being obedient. Now before you eyeball my halo, let me explain.

You know the cartoon of the person with the angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other? The angel is a do-gooder, and the devil wants you to have fun. I've not yet gotten a good grasp on Satan's role in this grand human experiment, but I have no problem believing that there are good and evil voices whispering in our ears. And sometimes old Lucifer has some pretty convincing (albeit deceiving) arguments. We get the task of deciding which one to obey. To be sure the Spirit's voice (Holy Spirit) is stronger, but our pride allows us to give the other voice more attention than it deserves.

God has been gradually increasing my consciousness of my shortcomings and has encouraged me to obey the teachings of his Son. It's wonderful to have a Father who will never give up on you. Even when your journey drags you down to the pit of sadness, despair and horror, he WILL get your attention, reinforce his love for you and .../spit you out on the dry land/.

And he has eternity in which to do it. Obedience is neat.
STEVE

Jesus the Christ

2007-01-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

OK, so most folks are probably aware that Christ was NOT his last name. The angel Gabriel told both Mary and Joseph to call him Jesus. Matthew said that the OT prophesied he would be called Immanuel, but nobody else in the NT ever used it. So we have Jesus (God Saves) and Christ (the Anointed One). But some gospel writers put it together in referring to him, and Paul and Peter used it frequently. Nowadays it's plastered everywhere, and some hotheads have formalized it by adding an H in the middle in their swearing. All are constant reminders of this household name that is well known worldwide by saints and enemies alike.

He's depicted as the holy babe of a vengeful God, the substitutionary sacrifice for our sins, the second person of the Trinity and our spiritual guide. I believe in him because I'm taking him at his word. Now I realize that someone long ago wrote that he said those things; as best we can tell, he never wrote anything. But I stand on my faith in him for two reasons: 1) I've never been so impressed with anyone's words, written or spoken, as I have this carpenter-prophet who boldly claimed to be the actual son of God; and 2) I have this unexplainable stirring within me (No, it wasn't the taco salad.) that won't let me go and says to me, "This is my son; listen to him."

So then if he's God's son, and I'm God's child by virtue of being created, that makes him my brother. How great is that? And coming straight from a perfect God, he had to be a perfect son. How many of us can boast of a perfect sibling? I'm an only child, but I hear that some siblings claim perfection, and that can be annoying. I think I was created perfect, but some bad stuff stuck to me on the way. Jesus was like teflon; nothing stuck to him. Another cool big brother trait.

He came back to life after his execution to prove to us that death is not the end, but a glorious rebirth. This gives tremendous hope to those who still fear the other side of the grave. I've been at death's door three times, and was given peace on each occasion --- ready to go, ready to stay.

Jesus said that God said that he could pass out some commands, like love God, love your neighbor, keep the spiritual laws that are already written on your hearts. That's fine by me, because I know that Jesus is not trying to pull authority away from his father. Instead he came to tell us and show us what his father was really like. I must and will serve anyone who can pull that off. But nobody else can even come close.
STEVE

I Believe

2006-12-31T02:09:00.000-08:00

If you're like me, anytime you hear the word "belief", you immediately think of religion. This is as it should be since we are created beings and at our very core have some consciousness of or connection with a Creator. Who hasn't at times (or many times) asked the questions, "Who am I?", "Where did I come from?", "Why am I here?" or "Where am I going?" What we may not realize as readily, however, is how much belief is hard-wired into the very fabric of our being. Even our modern day computer systems use a binary code, which is, quite simply, a series of 1's and 0's packed together in a certain order to identify the tasks to be performed. These two digits represent the status of "yes" or "no", "go" or "no go", "on" or "off", "true" or "false". As humans hundreds of times daily we assign a probability of truth to information received that can impact decisions we make or, at best, how we react to or receive the informer. Most of this activity is done quite unconciously, and only when we reflect on events do we then see the level of credibility that we have assigned. Let me demonstrate. You may give me a gift [and if you want to, I'll be glad to set up PayPal]. Getting the gift is fact because I have it in hand. But why I received the gift brings belief into play. Did I receive it because you like me, love me, pity me or want something from me? Information is added when I take into consideration what I know about you and your life, recent events that we both may have experienced, or your very words. Even if you tell me why you gave it, I must assign a level of truth to your words. Unless I simply trust you. The sadness of it all is that we have gotten away from simple trust. Why? Because our trust has been violated time and time again. Our vulnerability has opened us up to hurt. As children trust and belief walked hand in hand within us, mixed in with a healthy dose of love. Even when injured or insulted, it wasn't long before we were ready to trust again. It was necessary to our sense of security. As we get older the time it takes to restore trust gets longer, I think. God wants us to be children again. Not playing in sandboxes with blue sand [although that's pretty cool some times], but simply trusting and allowing him to heal the hurt when and if that trust is broken. We not only need to trust for our own well being, but others who are hurting need to see the trust in us. Perfect love, as outlined in I Corinthians 13 always trusts. He never meant for us to have all the answers, just trust him to sort it all out. When we do so, we begin to get answers that will astound us and help us with this marvelous journey that we are on. Believe it.
STEVE

Statement of Faith

2006-12-29T18:37:00.000-08:00

I have mixed emotions about statements of faith. On the one hand they seem to bind you to a certain dogma, implying that there is no room for freedom, growth or movement. However, they provide a simple method to list the basic tenets of your faith. Within the past 2+ years I have encountered the writings of a Scottish novelist/poet/theologian by the name of George MacDonald, and they have had a profound impact on me. Buried in a collection titled Unspoken Sermons I found a selection of comments on what he believed, which could be considered a loosely structured statement of faith. I think that he, on the whole, avoided set creeds; he saw them as instruments that could interfere with what our heavenly Father is trying to teach us directly. But I found his words to be full of life and hope, and I will be listing them to the left. I would also like to share some thoughts on his thoughts; and I would welcome your thoughts as well. Feel free to comment --- both of you!
STEVE