Good Morning!
We observe Memorial Day today. It is a time we remember the men and women who sacrificed their all so that we could enjoy the freedoms we have today. Even today, we have men and women in combat on foreign shores to protect the liberty. Some have said that we should not be involved in these foreign wars – and I imagine that even some of the readers here will have that view. I don’t – because I realize that the battles that are being fought in those foreign countries are for the freedoms we take for granted.
To update everyone, the weekend was blessed. Cody and Marquee are husband and wife. They are headed for Orlando for a honeymoon. We have Sammie dog for the duration. Sammie is a barker – a long haired daschund, totally black. He fits right in with our dogs and cats.
The wedding was simple but very good. We gathered at the Nash Farm Carriage House in Lovejoy and had an outdoor wedding. It was hot but not unbearable. We then had a reception that included my mother dancing. And she danced pretty well for a lady of 86. It is unusual for a grandmother to dance at a grandchild’s wedding – but a great-grandmother dancing is pretty rare – at least I think so. It was quite a joyful occasion
We were supposed to go to Clarkesville for a birthday party Saturday – but Miss N and I were completely worn out from all the running around Thursday and Friday. So we just lounged around, doing nothing and resting our old bones. We later found out that Angie’s dad had to make a trip to the hospital while up there.
The text of the wedding ceremony was from 1st Corinthians 13:1-8a
The Greatest Gift
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned,[a] but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails..
Footnotes:
a. 1 Corinthians 13:3 NU-Text reads so I may boast
Jesus taught us to love one another. And that is what we should do today and every day. Love one another.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Monday, May 31, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Prayer Warriors
Good Morning!
Today is Cody and Marquee’s wedding day. There are so many memories I can share about Cody – the one I used to call “Tink” (short for “stinker”). I remember him as a five year old desiring to walk with me around the neighborhood. He was one of the first grandchildren to actually express his love for “Pop” in this way. I have watched him grow into a young man with hopes and dreams for tomorrow. His bride is a beautiful young lady – quiet and shy to begin with … but now so much a part of our family. It was Marquee (and Cody) who cleaned up after Norma had to go to the hospital some months ago. No one had to ask – they just did it. How fortunate are we to have these two beautiful people as a part of our family.
I was able to play nine holes Wednesday afternoon. While on the course, I saw my buddy Harold driving into the Links. You have been praying for Harold’s wife, Jeanie, who had surgery on the 17th. I am happy to report that she is doing well physically – but needs our continued prayers as she mends. It’s the waiting to know that you are okay that can be discouraging. So keep them close in your heart as you pray this weekend.
I was finishing my round when I saw Ulysses on the first hole. He came very quickly over to me, saying he had been hoping to see me. His brother, Curtis, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. As you will remember, “U”, as we call him, is recovering from the same cancer. NOTE: most men will develop prostate cancer if they live long enough – but prostate cancer is genetic so if one male in the family develops it, the other males need to be tested periodically. For example, my boys need to be tested because both Bruce and I have had prostate cancer. Just letting you know.
U wanted us to pray for Curtis because he values the Prayer Warriors who read this Good Morning message. And, let me tell you, I am convinced that this group of believers consist of effective prayer partners. So keep all the folks on the list in your hearts today.
James 5:13-18 (English Standard Version)
The Prayer of Faith
13Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. 14Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.[a] 17Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. 18 Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Have a blessed weekend.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Today is Cody and Marquee’s wedding day. There are so many memories I can share about Cody – the one I used to call “Tink” (short for “stinker”). I remember him as a five year old desiring to walk with me around the neighborhood. He was one of the first grandchildren to actually express his love for “Pop” in this way. I have watched him grow into a young man with hopes and dreams for tomorrow. His bride is a beautiful young lady – quiet and shy to begin with … but now so much a part of our family. It was Marquee (and Cody) who cleaned up after Norma had to go to the hospital some months ago. No one had to ask – they just did it. How fortunate are we to have these two beautiful people as a part of our family.
I was able to play nine holes Wednesday afternoon. While on the course, I saw my buddy Harold driving into the Links. You have been praying for Harold’s wife, Jeanie, who had surgery on the 17th. I am happy to report that she is doing well physically – but needs our continued prayers as she mends. It’s the waiting to know that you are okay that can be discouraging. So keep them close in your heart as you pray this weekend.
I was finishing my round when I saw Ulysses on the first hole. He came very quickly over to me, saying he had been hoping to see me. His brother, Curtis, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. As you will remember, “U”, as we call him, is recovering from the same cancer. NOTE: most men will develop prostate cancer if they live long enough – but prostate cancer is genetic so if one male in the family develops it, the other males need to be tested periodically. For example, my boys need to be tested because both Bruce and I have had prostate cancer. Just letting you know.
U wanted us to pray for Curtis because he values the Prayer Warriors who read this Good Morning message. And, let me tell you, I am convinced that this group of believers consist of effective prayer partners. So keep all the folks on the list in your hearts today.
James 5:13-18 (English Standard Version)
The Prayer of Faith
13Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. 14Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.[a] 17Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. 18 Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Have a blessed weekend.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Becoming One
05/27/2010
Good Morning!
Genesis 2:18-24 (English Standard Version)
18Then the LORD God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for[a] him." 19 Now out of the ground the LORD God had formed[b] every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. 20The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam[c] there was not found a helper fit for him. 21So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. 22And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man he made[d] into a woman and brought her to the man. 23Then the man said,
"This at last is bone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called Woman,
because she was taken out of Man."[e]
24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Footnotes:
a. Genesis 2:18 Or corresponding to; also verse 20
b. Genesis 2:19 Or And out of the ground the LORD God formed
c. Genesis 2:20 Or the man
d. Genesis 2:22 Hebrew built
e. Genesis 2:23 The Hebrew words for woman (ishshah) and man (ish) sound alike
I was going to save this until Friday … but I was afraid that I would get caught up into doing too many things tomorrow and forget to write what I had to say to my grandson Cody and his bride Marquee. Cody and Marquee are getting married Friday afternoon at 3 PM. Mawmaw and I are extremely happy for them and look forward to seeing them grow together as one.
From my perspective, verse 24 is the important part of this passage from Genesis – especially the last four words: “they shall become one flesh.” In my opinion, too many marriages today never get to the point where husband and wife become one – a unit working together for a common good. No – to often territories are staked out – the me, my and mine attitude still dominates. I believe that successful marriage come from the understanding that the me becomes we, the my and mine become ours. That doesn’t mean anyone surrenders their identity but that compromise becomes the norm rather than the exception – and caring for one another’s viewpoint becomes a daily habit. This change won’t happen immediately – it takes time and patience and, most importantly, love for each other.
To me, the most important part of a successful marriage is one’s relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus teaches us to love one another – actually He commands it. He teaches us forgiveness – a big part of any marital relationship. He teaches us to care about each other. So, my prayer for my grandson and my soon to be granddaughter is that they will continue to grow in Christ. I wish the same for each of my readers.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
Genesis 2:18-24 (English Standard Version)
18Then the LORD God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for[a] him." 19 Now out of the ground the LORD God had formed[b] every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. 20The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam[c] there was not found a helper fit for him. 21So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. 22And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man he made[d] into a woman and brought her to the man. 23Then the man said,
"This at last is bone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called Woman,
because she was taken out of Man."[e]
24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Footnotes:
a. Genesis 2:18 Or corresponding to; also verse 20
b. Genesis 2:19 Or And out of the ground the LORD God formed
c. Genesis 2:20 Or the man
d. Genesis 2:22 Hebrew built
e. Genesis 2:23 The Hebrew words for woman (ishshah) and man (ish) sound alike
I was going to save this until Friday … but I was afraid that I would get caught up into doing too many things tomorrow and forget to write what I had to say to my grandson Cody and his bride Marquee. Cody and Marquee are getting married Friday afternoon at 3 PM. Mawmaw and I are extremely happy for them and look forward to seeing them grow together as one.
From my perspective, verse 24 is the important part of this passage from Genesis – especially the last four words: “they shall become one flesh.” In my opinion, too many marriages today never get to the point where husband and wife become one – a unit working together for a common good. No – to often territories are staked out – the me, my and mine attitude still dominates. I believe that successful marriage come from the understanding that the me becomes we, the my and mine become ours. That doesn’t mean anyone surrenders their identity but that compromise becomes the norm rather than the exception – and caring for one another’s viewpoint becomes a daily habit. This change won’t happen immediately – it takes time and patience and, most importantly, love for each other.
To me, the most important part of a successful marriage is one’s relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus teaches us to love one another – actually He commands it. He teaches us forgiveness – a big part of any marital relationship. He teaches us to care about each other. So, my prayer for my grandson and my soon to be granddaughter is that they will continue to grow in Christ. I wish the same for each of my readers.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Self Control
05/26/2010
Good Morning!
James 1:19-20 (English Standard Version)
Hearing and Doing the Word
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
OUCH!!! My toes are hurting.
God’s Word hits the nail right on the head. I have been known to have a quick temper. I am not proud of that – I am stating a fact that I have to deal with every day. And it’s not easy with all the stuff that goes on around us these days.
I have to remind myself that every action and every reaction I have presents a testimony. I want my testimony to be one that honors God – that exhibits His love towards all men – not just the folks I like or that I agree with. So when I read brother James, I am reminded that I need to control that urge to speak quickly and not to listen. When I do, I find my days go better.
I hope you will have a blessed day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
James 1:19-20 (English Standard Version)
Hearing and Doing the Word
19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
OUCH!!! My toes are hurting.
God’s Word hits the nail right on the head. I have been known to have a quick temper. I am not proud of that – I am stating a fact that I have to deal with every day. And it’s not easy with all the stuff that goes on around us these days.
I have to remind myself that every action and every reaction I have presents a testimony. I want my testimony to be one that honors God – that exhibits His love towards all men – not just the folks I like or that I agree with. So when I read brother James, I am reminded that I need to control that urge to speak quickly and not to listen. When I do, I find my days go better.
I hope you will have a blessed day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Focused
Good Morning!
One more and I will move on to some other subjects:
Psalm 119:9-16 (English Standard Version)
Beth
9How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
11I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes!
13With my lips I declare
all the rules[a] of your mouth.
14In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.
15I will meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:13 Or all the just decrees
Living life can be tough! There are so many distractions that want to pull us away from the pathway that God has set before us. When I was young (and Rich’s was still a store and was in “downtown Atlanta”), Mom would take us down to Rich’s on the No. 6 bus. This was a time when Atlanta still had the trolleys that ran on electric power. The streets were a maze of electric wires that the trolley driver would hook into. I can still remember when the trolley would make the turn from Ponce de Leon to Moreland Avenue. The trolley driver would have to jump off the bus and pull the two connecters from one set of wires to the other. It was fascinating! Do you see how easily we can be distracted???
Our walk with the Lord takes some concentrated effort if we are going to be successful. The Psalmist makes this plain in the “Beth” stanza of Psalm 119. He understands that Scripture memorization puts God’s Word in a place for ready use. Some of you will no doubt say that you can’t remember a thing – but I would hazard that if you began you would soon find how much you will retain. In the early 1970’s I attended the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts seminar at the Omni in Atlanta. The speaker was Bill Gothard. He share one story that stuck in my mind for what now is almost forty years. And it was this: Bill Gothard was a terrible student. He made C’s and D’s and couldn’t retain water – much less information for a test. But he was encouraged to begin to memorize Scripture – one verse a day. Pretty soon his grades were B’s and A’s and he found himself retaining much more of what he learned. Bill attributed his success to the simple task of Scripture memorization.
Hiding God’s Word in your heart brings the benefit of it being available when the Holy Spirit places a witness opportunity in front of you. I often am surprised when I hear myself quoting Scripture in a certain situation – not because I am that smart but because the Scripture is there – locked in my brain – where the Holy Spirit can pull it out when appropriate.
“I will delight in Your statutes – I will NOT forget Your Word.” What a great way to end this stanza – and to begin this day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
One more and I will move on to some other subjects:
Psalm 119:9-16 (English Standard Version)
Beth
9How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
11I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes!
13With my lips I declare
all the rules[a] of your mouth.
14In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.
15I will meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:13 Or all the just decrees
Living life can be tough! There are so many distractions that want to pull us away from the pathway that God has set before us. When I was young (and Rich’s was still a store and was in “downtown Atlanta”), Mom would take us down to Rich’s on the No. 6 bus. This was a time when Atlanta still had the trolleys that ran on electric power. The streets were a maze of electric wires that the trolley driver would hook into. I can still remember when the trolley would make the turn from Ponce de Leon to Moreland Avenue. The trolley driver would have to jump off the bus and pull the two connecters from one set of wires to the other. It was fascinating! Do you see how easily we can be distracted???
Our walk with the Lord takes some concentrated effort if we are going to be successful. The Psalmist makes this plain in the “Beth” stanza of Psalm 119. He understands that Scripture memorization puts God’s Word in a place for ready use. Some of you will no doubt say that you can’t remember a thing – but I would hazard that if you began you would soon find how much you will retain. In the early 1970’s I attended the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts seminar at the Omni in Atlanta. The speaker was Bill Gothard. He share one story that stuck in my mind for what now is almost forty years. And it was this: Bill Gothard was a terrible student. He made C’s and D’s and couldn’t retain water – much less information for a test. But he was encouraged to begin to memorize Scripture – one verse a day. Pretty soon his grades were B’s and A’s and he found himself retaining much more of what he learned. Bill attributed his success to the simple task of Scripture memorization.
Hiding God’s Word in your heart brings the benefit of it being available when the Holy Spirit places a witness opportunity in front of you. I often am surprised when I hear myself quoting Scripture in a certain situation – not because I am that smart but because the Scripture is there – locked in my brain – where the Holy Spirit can pull it out when appropriate.
“I will delight in Your statutes – I will NOT forget Your Word.” What a great way to end this stanza – and to begin this day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Monday, May 24, 2010
Aleph
Good Morning!
If you are one of the readers who follow the Daily Bible Readings, you will know that we began Psalm 119 yesterday with the first 16 verses. There are some unique things about the 119th Psalm. First, it consists of 22 sections (or stanzas) – each section being eight verses long. Your Bible may also have the heading like below – which is one of the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Each verse within each stanza begins with the alphabetic character given in the heading. So, here’s the question: why? The books of the Psalms is a learning tool and a very good one. By using the repetitive, the information in the Psalm would hopefully stick in the reader’s mind and be there when the reader needed it. So let’s take a look at the first stanza:
Psalm 119:1-8 (English Standard Version)
Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet
Aleph
1[a] Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the LORD!
2Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
4You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5Oh that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous rules.[b]
8I will keep your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me!
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem of twenty-two stanzas, following the letters of the Hebrew alphabet; within a stanza, each verse begins with the same Hebrew letter
b. Psalm 119:7 Or your just and righteous decrees; also verses 62, 106, 160, 164
So what did you pick up in your reading?
One of the comments from our Bible study yesterday was that we have failed to teach the Old Testament. Oh, to be certain, we have had studies in the Old Testament but it is common for us to think that the Old Testament is just that … old; no longer in effect having been surpassed by the NEW Testament. And in some respects one could say that is true … especially when it comes to what is required for a person to be at one with God. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE – the Old Testament is still valid for all of us. Listen to the Psalmist:
BLESSED (we would make that two syllables BLESS and ED) are those whose way is blameless (how) who walk in the law of the LORD! God gave us the law to be our schoolmaster – to teach us His desired way for us to live and exist one with another and one with Him. His teachings have not changed – each law has value for our life.
BLESSED (again, two syllables) are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong but walk in His ways. And where do we find the testimonies of God? In the Torah and the Prophets and the History books and Poetry that make up our OLD Testament.
Listen again to the Psalmist: You have commanded Your precepts be kept diligently. What does that mean? Simply that we don’t blow off the words that God has given us but we think on it and we strive to keep the His law in our everyday existence. I admit it is not a simple task – impossible is more descriptive. But as we walk in His way, the walk becomes easier.
The Psalmist concludes this stanza with a plea for himself and a promise to God. And that is a good thing – setting our eyes upon His commandments, learning his statues and attempting to live a life pleasing to Him. Something to strive for on this good day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
If you are one of the readers who follow the Daily Bible Readings, you will know that we began Psalm 119 yesterday with the first 16 verses. There are some unique things about the 119th Psalm. First, it consists of 22 sections (or stanzas) – each section being eight verses long. Your Bible may also have the heading like below – which is one of the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Each verse within each stanza begins with the alphabetic character given in the heading. So, here’s the question: why? The books of the Psalms is a learning tool and a very good one. By using the repetitive, the information in the Psalm would hopefully stick in the reader’s mind and be there when the reader needed it. So let’s take a look at the first stanza:
Psalm 119:1-8 (English Standard Version)
Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet
Aleph
1[a] Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the LORD!
2Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
4You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5Oh that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous rules.[b]
8I will keep your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me!
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 119:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem of twenty-two stanzas, following the letters of the Hebrew alphabet; within a stanza, each verse begins with the same Hebrew letter
b. Psalm 119:7 Or your just and righteous decrees; also verses 62, 106, 160, 164
So what did you pick up in your reading?
One of the comments from our Bible study yesterday was that we have failed to teach the Old Testament. Oh, to be certain, we have had studies in the Old Testament but it is common for us to think that the Old Testament is just that … old; no longer in effect having been surpassed by the NEW Testament. And in some respects one could say that is true … especially when it comes to what is required for a person to be at one with God. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE – the Old Testament is still valid for all of us. Listen to the Psalmist:
BLESSED (we would make that two syllables BLESS and ED) are those whose way is blameless (how) who walk in the law of the LORD! God gave us the law to be our schoolmaster – to teach us His desired way for us to live and exist one with another and one with Him. His teachings have not changed – each law has value for our life.
BLESSED (again, two syllables) are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong but walk in His ways. And where do we find the testimonies of God? In the Torah and the Prophets and the History books and Poetry that make up our OLD Testament.
Listen again to the Psalmist: You have commanded Your precepts be kept diligently. What does that mean? Simply that we don’t blow off the words that God has given us but we think on it and we strive to keep the His law in our everyday existence. I admit it is not a simple task – impossible is more descriptive. But as we walk in His way, the walk becomes easier.
The Psalmist concludes this stanza with a plea for himself and a promise to God. And that is a good thing – setting our eyes upon His commandments, learning his statues and attempting to live a life pleasing to Him. Something to strive for on this good day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Friday, May 21, 2010
05/21/2010
Good Morning!
Psalm 118 (English Standard Version)
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let Israel say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
3 Let the house of Aaron say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
4 Let those who fear the LORD say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
9It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
10 All nations surrounded me; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
11They surrounded me, surrounded me on every side; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
12 They surrounded me like bees; they went out like a fire among thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
13I was pushed hard,[a] so that I was falling, but the LORD helped me.
14The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.
15Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous: "The right hand of the LORD does valiantly,
16the right hand of the LORD exalts, the right hand of the LORD does valiantly!"
17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD.
18The LORD has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
19 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
20This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it.
21I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.[b]
23This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.
24This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
25Save us, we pray, O LORD!O LORD, we pray, give us success!
26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD.
27The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us. Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar!
28You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.
29 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!Footnotes:
a. Psalm 118:13 Hebrew You (that is, the enemy) pushed me hard
b. Psalm 118:22 Hebrew the head of the corner
Many of my coworkers hear me say “This is the day the Lord has made…I think I will rejoice and be glad in it.” (They also hear me say that I am all right for an old man… but that’s another story.)
I love this Psalm because it constantly reminds us that God’s steadfast love endures forever.
My golf buddy Harold called me last night to give me an update on Jeanie. She is recovering nicely. Harold shared that the operation that was supposed to last three hours stretched into five and a half. At the three hour mark, the doctor sent word that they had encountered some difficulty but not to worry - things would be okay and they would send word later. Harold's brother in law and Harold's daughter were with him and suggested they go get something to eat. Harold, of course, chose to stay put. While they were gone and Harold was alone, he sat with his head in his hands praying that God would not let Jeanie be disappointed. He noticed a lady sitting off to the side - far enough away so that she couldn't have possibly have heard the doctor's report. In a few minutes of his prayer, he and she made eye contact and she smiled. She then said "she's going to be all right." This without knowing anything. The lady then went back to doing what she had been doing before. Harold told me that he is positive that God sent this woman to bless him in his hour of need. It wasn't much longer that the good report came from the operating room that the issue had been resolved and Jeanie was going to be fine.
Too often when trouble arises, we think God has abandoned us. Usually it is the other way around – we have abandoned (or turned away) from God. But God is always nearby – waiting for us to turn to Him. He is right next to you right now – so if you are facing some issue that seems insurmountable or you just want to thank Him for today, go right ahead. He is waiting. I will guarantee it will make your day better…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
Psalm 118 (English Standard Version)
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let Israel say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
3 Let the house of Aaron say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
4 Let those who fear the LORD say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
9It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
10 All nations surrounded me; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
11They surrounded me, surrounded me on every side; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
12 They surrounded me like bees; they went out like a fire among thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
13I was pushed hard,[a] so that I was falling, but the LORD helped me.
14The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.
15Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous: "The right hand of the LORD does valiantly,
16the right hand of the LORD exalts, the right hand of the LORD does valiantly!"
17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD.
18The LORD has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
19 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
20This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it.
21I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.[b]
23This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.
24This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
25Save us, we pray, O LORD!O LORD, we pray, give us success!
26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD.
27The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us. Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar!
28You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.
29 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!Footnotes:
a. Psalm 118:13 Hebrew You (that is, the enemy) pushed me hard
b. Psalm 118:22 Hebrew the head of the corner
Many of my coworkers hear me say “This is the day the Lord has made…I think I will rejoice and be glad in it.” (They also hear me say that I am all right for an old man… but that’s another story.)
I love this Psalm because it constantly reminds us that God’s steadfast love endures forever.
My golf buddy Harold called me last night to give me an update on Jeanie. She is recovering nicely. Harold shared that the operation that was supposed to last three hours stretched into five and a half. At the three hour mark, the doctor sent word that they had encountered some difficulty but not to worry - things would be okay and they would send word later. Harold's brother in law and Harold's daughter were with him and suggested they go get something to eat. Harold, of course, chose to stay put. While they were gone and Harold was alone, he sat with his head in his hands praying that God would not let Jeanie be disappointed. He noticed a lady sitting off to the side - far enough away so that she couldn't have possibly have heard the doctor's report. In a few minutes of his prayer, he and she made eye contact and she smiled. She then said "she's going to be all right." This without knowing anything. The lady then went back to doing what she had been doing before. Harold told me that he is positive that God sent this woman to bless him in his hour of need. It wasn't much longer that the good report came from the operating room that the issue had been resolved and Jeanie was going to be fine.
Too often when trouble arises, we think God has abandoned us. Usually it is the other way around – we have abandoned (or turned away) from God. But God is always nearby – waiting for us to turn to Him. He is right next to you right now – so if you are facing some issue that seems insurmountable or you just want to thank Him for today, go right ahead. He is waiting. I will guarantee it will make your day better…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Thursday, May 20, 2010
A Simple Praise
Good Morning!
Psalm 117 (English Standard Version)
The LORD’s Faithfulness Endures Forever
1 Praise the LORD, all nations!
Extol him, all peoples!
2For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.
Praise the LORD!
There you have it. The shortest of the Psalms and yet… still with a message of power.
Praise the Lord … how often do we do this? I sometimes wonder which would win out – our praise of the Lord or the use of His name in vain. Praising involves recognition of the greatness of God and the measure of His provision for each one of us. Praising God involves a gratitude attitude.
ALL NATIONS … every person who lives and breathes should be praising God for setting this place we call Earth into the very proper place that we as humans might thrive. Do we not realize how much impact a centimeter might make on humankind?
Extol Him, all peoples. Synonyms are: praise, exalt, commend, admire, worship. Is God not entitled to any one of these? Of course, He is.
For great is His steadfast loves towards us … God not only loves us supremely – His love never wavers. We have a rock to which we can cling even in the worst of times.
And the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Forever faithful – forever steadfast. Something we can count on each and every day of our lives. So, again – Praise the Lord
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Psalm 117 (English Standard Version)
The LORD’s Faithfulness Endures Forever
1 Praise the LORD, all nations!
Extol him, all peoples!
2For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.
Praise the LORD!
There you have it. The shortest of the Psalms and yet… still with a message of power.
Praise the Lord … how often do we do this? I sometimes wonder which would win out – our praise of the Lord or the use of His name in vain. Praising involves recognition of the greatness of God and the measure of His provision for each one of us. Praising God involves a gratitude attitude.
ALL NATIONS … every person who lives and breathes should be praising God for setting this place we call Earth into the very proper place that we as humans might thrive. Do we not realize how much impact a centimeter might make on humankind?
Extol Him, all peoples. Synonyms are: praise, exalt, commend, admire, worship. Is God not entitled to any one of these? Of course, He is.
For great is His steadfast loves towards us … God not only loves us supremely – His love never wavers. We have a rock to which we can cling even in the worst of times.
And the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Forever faithful – forever steadfast. Something we can count on each and every day of our lives. So, again – Praise the Lord
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
God Knows More Than Garmin
Good Morning!
My oldest son Jim and his wife Angie live busy lives up in the north Georgia mountains. Angie works at Truett-McConnell College and Jim is an Associate Pastor at First Baptist – Helen. Both are big jobs that require a lot of their time. Added to that, they have two beautiful girls, aged 7 and 5, who are involved in soccer and dance. So scheduling can be a problem – and that’s where Aunt Heather, my daughter, comes in. Here is an excerpt from her blog Tuesday:
“Yesterday afternoon was a bit comical. I picked up Sarabeth at school... went to Miss Cassie's to get Jamie and there was no one there. After many phone calls and texts back and forth between myself, Jim and Angie, they realized that it was Jamie's day to go to Miss Wendy's house. Oops. Having been a parent (for 23 years now) I know how easy it is to get those logistical details mixed up. Happened to me all the time. Still does. Sarabeth knew where Miss Wendy's house was and she graciously had Jamie dressed and ready to go.
I wasn't exactly sure where the Habersham County High School was but I knew Garmin would know. Um. Nope. Not on there. So I programmed a school that was close to it and tried to go from there.... but I also prayed out loud with the girls that God would show us the best, safest way to get there. Garmin directed me one way and I *instinctively* felt another way was better... so I followed my instincts, explaining to the girls that I felt God was showing me a better way. When we arrived there, safely, ahead of the time Garmin had predicted, Sarabeth said, "whaddaya know? God knows more than Garmin."
Yep. He sure does.”
We live in a technological age with all kinds of gadgets to keep us informed. Start with the computer – when it is working (and mine is encountering technical difficulties more often). Add the cell phone, the blue tooth, and the GPS devices such as Garmin. All these are designed to keep us informed – up to date – get us where we want to go – and keep in touch with each other. And we have come to rely upon these devices. The problem comes when the device breaks down. I have been getting the “blue screen of death” off and on for the last day or so. I have to type the Good Mornings quickly and hope I don’t lose what I have when it shuts down. Heather’s Garmin couldn’t find Habersham High. And so on… and the thought came to me that some times we may be following the wrong things – and relying on things that are unreliable.
You and I have an anchor. His earthly name is Jesus. He came to His disciples and just told them to follow Him. And they did! I find that amazing because He didn’t offer them anything other than they would become fishers of men. And He did promise them there would be controversy – such as is contained in the passage below:
Matthew 10:34-39 (English Standard Version)
Not Peace, but a Sword
34 "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. 37 Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
You and I have an anchor – a solid rock on Whom we can depend. He knows the way because He has traveled it before. He has packed enough provisions. And, yes, He knows more than Garmin, I am so glad He does.
Blessings on each of you today!!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
My oldest son Jim and his wife Angie live busy lives up in the north Georgia mountains. Angie works at Truett-McConnell College and Jim is an Associate Pastor at First Baptist – Helen. Both are big jobs that require a lot of their time. Added to that, they have two beautiful girls, aged 7 and 5, who are involved in soccer and dance. So scheduling can be a problem – and that’s where Aunt Heather, my daughter, comes in. Here is an excerpt from her blog Tuesday:
“Yesterday afternoon was a bit comical. I picked up Sarabeth at school... went to Miss Cassie's to get Jamie and there was no one there. After many phone calls and texts back and forth between myself, Jim and Angie, they realized that it was Jamie's day to go to Miss Wendy's house. Oops. Having been a parent (for 23 years now) I know how easy it is to get those logistical details mixed up. Happened to me all the time. Still does. Sarabeth knew where Miss Wendy's house was and she graciously had Jamie dressed and ready to go.
I wasn't exactly sure where the Habersham County High School was but I knew Garmin would know. Um. Nope. Not on there. So I programmed a school that was close to it and tried to go from there.... but I also prayed out loud with the girls that God would show us the best, safest way to get there. Garmin directed me one way and I *instinctively* felt another way was better... so I followed my instincts, explaining to the girls that I felt God was showing me a better way. When we arrived there, safely, ahead of the time Garmin had predicted, Sarabeth said, "whaddaya know? God knows more than Garmin."
Yep. He sure does.”
We live in a technological age with all kinds of gadgets to keep us informed. Start with the computer – when it is working (and mine is encountering technical difficulties more often). Add the cell phone, the blue tooth, and the GPS devices such as Garmin. All these are designed to keep us informed – up to date – get us where we want to go – and keep in touch with each other. And we have come to rely upon these devices. The problem comes when the device breaks down. I have been getting the “blue screen of death” off and on for the last day or so. I have to type the Good Mornings quickly and hope I don’t lose what I have when it shuts down. Heather’s Garmin couldn’t find Habersham High. And so on… and the thought came to me that some times we may be following the wrong things – and relying on things that are unreliable.
You and I have an anchor. His earthly name is Jesus. He came to His disciples and just told them to follow Him. And they did! I find that amazing because He didn’t offer them anything other than they would become fishers of men. And He did promise them there would be controversy – such as is contained in the passage below:
Matthew 10:34-39 (English Standard Version)
Not Peace, but a Sword
34 "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. 37 Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
You and I have an anchor – a solid rock on Whom we can depend. He knows the way because He has traveled it before. He has packed enough provisions. And, yes, He knows more than Garmin, I am so glad He does.
Blessings on each of you today!!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
I Went to A Singing and Preaching Broke Out
Good Morning!
I Went to a Singing And Preaching Broke Out
Norma and I joined Euell and Patsy Busby at the 1st Assembly of God Sunday night to hear the Booth Brothers in concert. The Booth Brothers is a trio consisting of Michael and Ronnie Booth and Jim Brady – all young men in their late thirties or early forties. Their sound is somewhat contemporary (as opposed to Southern Gospel). And it was great – BUT it was also different.
Usually when you go to a singing on a Sunday night, you get about an hour or so of just singing – and not much else. Oh, perhaps the singer will give his testimony – or sometimes a Bible verse or two will be added. But Sunday night, we got preached at … and it was gooood preaching – the kind one can listen to most all the night – even when toes are being stepped on.
One of the passages Michael touched on was from Romans 5. Here’s what that passage says:
Romans 5:1-5 (English Standard Version)
Peace with God Through Faith
1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we[a] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2Through him we have also obtained access by faith[b] into this grace in which we stand, and we[c] rejoice[d] in hope of the glory of God. 3More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Footnotes:
a. Romans 5:1 Some manuscripts let us
b. Romans 5:2 Some manuscripts omit by faith
c. Romans 5:2 Or let us; also verse 3
d. Romans 5:2 Or boast; also verses 3, 11
This passage is especially helpful for folks who are currently going through trial and tribulation. Look at the key points:
(1) We are justified by faith. If I had to depend on the works of righteousness that I did, I would be in deep trouble. But my justification comes through the faith I have in Jesus Christ.
(2) Because I am justified by faith, I am at peace WITH God. Before Jesus, I was like an unruly teenager – full of myself and of the false confidence that comes with selfishness. But with Jesus, I have made peace with God by agreeing that I am a sinner and that I am hopeless without the finished work of the cross.
(3) I have access to God’s wonderful grace by the faith I have in Jesus. What does that mean? There is no problem too big or too small that God is not able to know it and overcome it.
So what happens when I am in the middle of a trial? Rejoicing! What??? Rejoicing? Absolutely! Notice what Paul states happens when we endure trial (sufferings). Ultimately our suffering – our trial – our tribulation brings on HOPE because we know we serve a big God who cares about the smallest of His creation. What a blessing.
Now, that wasn’t Michael’s sermon Sunday night – but the message is true even for today’s walk. And I trust yours will be great.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
I Went to a Singing And Preaching Broke Out
Norma and I joined Euell and Patsy Busby at the 1st Assembly of God Sunday night to hear the Booth Brothers in concert. The Booth Brothers is a trio consisting of Michael and Ronnie Booth and Jim Brady – all young men in their late thirties or early forties. Their sound is somewhat contemporary (as opposed to Southern Gospel). And it was great – BUT it was also different.
Usually when you go to a singing on a Sunday night, you get about an hour or so of just singing – and not much else. Oh, perhaps the singer will give his testimony – or sometimes a Bible verse or two will be added. But Sunday night, we got preached at … and it was gooood preaching – the kind one can listen to most all the night – even when toes are being stepped on.
One of the passages Michael touched on was from Romans 5. Here’s what that passage says:
Romans 5:1-5 (English Standard Version)
Peace with God Through Faith
1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we[a] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2Through him we have also obtained access by faith[b] into this grace in which we stand, and we[c] rejoice[d] in hope of the glory of God. 3More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Footnotes:
a. Romans 5:1 Some manuscripts let us
b. Romans 5:2 Some manuscripts omit by faith
c. Romans 5:2 Or let us; also verse 3
d. Romans 5:2 Or boast; also verses 3, 11
This passage is especially helpful for folks who are currently going through trial and tribulation. Look at the key points:
(1) We are justified by faith. If I had to depend on the works of righteousness that I did, I would be in deep trouble. But my justification comes through the faith I have in Jesus Christ.
(2) Because I am justified by faith, I am at peace WITH God. Before Jesus, I was like an unruly teenager – full of myself and of the false confidence that comes with selfishness. But with Jesus, I have made peace with God by agreeing that I am a sinner and that I am hopeless without the finished work of the cross.
(3) I have access to God’s wonderful grace by the faith I have in Jesus. What does that mean? There is no problem too big or too small that God is not able to know it and overcome it.
So what happens when I am in the middle of a trial? Rejoicing! What??? Rejoicing? Absolutely! Notice what Paul states happens when we endure trial (sufferings). Ultimately our suffering – our trial – our tribulation brings on HOPE because we know we serve a big God who cares about the smallest of His creation. What a blessing.
Now, that wasn’t Michael’s sermon Sunday night – but the message is true even for today’s walk. And I trust yours will be great.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Monday, May 17, 2010
Fry Like Sausage
Good Morning!
Acts 18:6 (English Standard Version)
6And when they opposed and reviled him, he shook out his garments and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
Have you ever reached your breaking point? Don’t let my mild demeanor fool you. My children will attest that I have a temper and sometimes it shows when I really don’t want it to show. Over the years I have learned to control my temper somewhat – though I feel it comes to the front far more often than I would prefer. Well, Paul had a temper, too. His having a temper doesn’t justify mine – I am just making the statement that Paul had a temper. We see his temper exhibited in the verse above. Of course, what we don’t see is the long period of time that Paul had spent with the Jews in the synagogue in Corinth. He had spent several months there before Silas and Timothy arrived, reasoning and persuading the Jews in that synagogue. When Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul redoubled his efforts to explain that Jesus was the Christ – and to encourage the Jews to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. Verse six tells us that some opposed Paul and began to fling insults at him. And Paul got mad. And he told them that they were on their own – if they perished, it was their fault – not his.
In our Bible study, Keith told us about a time early in his walk with Christ when he went visiting with an older gentleman who was going to “show Keith the ropes”. For the sake of this good morning, let’s call this man Mr. Smith – I don’t know his name. Well Keith and Mr. Smith went to visit Mr. Jones (again a pseudonym) who Mr. Smith had visited a number of times before without success. And once again, Mr. Jones refused to accept Christ, refuting Mr. Smith’s arguments for Christ. Finally Mr. Smith just let out a “well, you just go to Hell and fry like a sausage”. What a way to speak to a person! And I am sure Mr. Smith regretted his outburst. Imagine his surprise when the next Sunday Mr. Jones showed up at church. And imagine his REAL surprise when Mr. Jones made his way down the aisle to give his heart to Jesus. When Mr. Smith and Mr. Jones got together, Mr. Jones said the thought of frying sausage stayed in his head all the night long – and he realized where he was headed without Christ.
Sometimes it takes a direct approach to get a person to realize their plight. Christianity is confrontational. By that I mean this: people are sinners – but we don’t like to think of ourselves as being in sin – and we especially don’t like someone telling us we are in sin. But the only way a person can come to grips with his or her need for Jesus Christ is by confronting their sin. Most people realize it quickly – but some of us hard heads need a good knock to get us to take a look. Paul put in a good whack in that synagogue – and, if you read the remainder of the passage, you will see that Crispus – a leader in the synagogue – came to know Christ.
Well, I hope you have a good day today. I will ask that you pray for Jeanie and Harold this morning (her surgery) and for Ellen and Charlie Banks this afternoon (doctors appointments). God bless each of you this day!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Acts 18:6 (English Standard Version)
6And when they opposed and reviled him, he shook out his garments and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
Have you ever reached your breaking point? Don’t let my mild demeanor fool you. My children will attest that I have a temper and sometimes it shows when I really don’t want it to show. Over the years I have learned to control my temper somewhat – though I feel it comes to the front far more often than I would prefer. Well, Paul had a temper, too. His having a temper doesn’t justify mine – I am just making the statement that Paul had a temper. We see his temper exhibited in the verse above. Of course, what we don’t see is the long period of time that Paul had spent with the Jews in the synagogue in Corinth. He had spent several months there before Silas and Timothy arrived, reasoning and persuading the Jews in that synagogue. When Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul redoubled his efforts to explain that Jesus was the Christ – and to encourage the Jews to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. Verse six tells us that some opposed Paul and began to fling insults at him. And Paul got mad. And he told them that they were on their own – if they perished, it was their fault – not his.
In our Bible study, Keith told us about a time early in his walk with Christ when he went visiting with an older gentleman who was going to “show Keith the ropes”. For the sake of this good morning, let’s call this man Mr. Smith – I don’t know his name. Well Keith and Mr. Smith went to visit Mr. Jones (again a pseudonym) who Mr. Smith had visited a number of times before without success. And once again, Mr. Jones refused to accept Christ, refuting Mr. Smith’s arguments for Christ. Finally Mr. Smith just let out a “well, you just go to Hell and fry like a sausage”. What a way to speak to a person! And I am sure Mr. Smith regretted his outburst. Imagine his surprise when the next Sunday Mr. Jones showed up at church. And imagine his REAL surprise when Mr. Jones made his way down the aisle to give his heart to Jesus. When Mr. Smith and Mr. Jones got together, Mr. Jones said the thought of frying sausage stayed in his head all the night long – and he realized where he was headed without Christ.
Sometimes it takes a direct approach to get a person to realize their plight. Christianity is confrontational. By that I mean this: people are sinners – but we don’t like to think of ourselves as being in sin – and we especially don’t like someone telling us we are in sin. But the only way a person can come to grips with his or her need for Jesus Christ is by confronting their sin. Most people realize it quickly – but some of us hard heads need a good knock to get us to take a look. Paul put in a good whack in that synagogue – and, if you read the remainder of the passage, you will see that Crispus – a leader in the synagogue – came to know Christ.
Well, I hope you have a good day today. I will ask that you pray for Jeanie and Harold this morning (her surgery) and for Ellen and Charlie Banks this afternoon (doctors appointments). God bless each of you this day!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Friday, May 14, 2010
Secure In God's Hands continued
Good Morning!
A great Bible study last night, led by dear Sister Ellen. I have listed the last three verses for a quick look this morning.
Psalm 16:9-11 (English Standard Version)
9Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being[a] rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
10For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.[b]
11You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 16:9 Hebrew my glory
b. Psalm 16:10 Or see the pit
A wise sage once said that when you see a “therefore” you need to figure out what the “therefore” is there for. In this case, David has declared his understanding that God is always present with him; preserving him; providing him with a refuge. And since that is true, David has committed himself to God (8 I have set the LORD always before me;) with the result being a secure feeling. We don’t know precisely when this Psalm was written but it is believed that it predates his ascension to the throne of Israel – perhaps being written while Saul was pursuing David for the express purpose of doing David in. So the “therefore” is there because David has arrived at the revelation that God will NEVER abandon him. What a wonderful thought for David – and for you and me as well.
In some Bibles, this Psalm has a subtitle of being a “mitkam of David”. One of the commentaries we had last night indicated it was something that was set in stone. My mind immediately went to this being one of David’s Psalms that he recited to himself whenever things didn’t go his way. Today we would call this a “life passage” or “life verses” meaning something we rely upon in our dark times. How wonderful to think that God will never abandon even one of His own. Such a good start to a good weekend. God bless you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
A great Bible study last night, led by dear Sister Ellen. I have listed the last three verses for a quick look this morning.
Psalm 16:9-11 (English Standard Version)
9Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being[a] rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
10For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.[b]
11You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 16:9 Hebrew my glory
b. Psalm 16:10 Or see the pit
A wise sage once said that when you see a “therefore” you need to figure out what the “therefore” is there for. In this case, David has declared his understanding that God is always present with him; preserving him; providing him with a refuge. And since that is true, David has committed himself to God (8 I have set the LORD always before me;) with the result being a secure feeling. We don’t know precisely when this Psalm was written but it is believed that it predates his ascension to the throne of Israel – perhaps being written while Saul was pursuing David for the express purpose of doing David in. So the “therefore” is there because David has arrived at the revelation that God will NEVER abandon him. What a wonderful thought for David – and for you and me as well.
In some Bibles, this Psalm has a subtitle of being a “mitkam of David”. One of the commentaries we had last night indicated it was something that was set in stone. My mind immediately went to this being one of David’s Psalms that he recited to himself whenever things didn’t go his way. Today we would call this a “life passage” or “life verses” meaning something we rely upon in our dark times. How wonderful to think that God will never abandon even one of His own. Such a good start to a good weekend. God bless you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Secure In God's Hands
05/13/2010
Good Morning!
Psalm 16:5 (New International Version)
5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
I have grabbed just this one verse from tonight’s Bible study. Saturday, as we made our way up to visit with our children and grandchildren, we talked about our recent rash of outgo of income. Norma’s eye surgery and subsequent visits have been expensive. There have been some crises in our family where I felt the need to meet some needs. And, then, Friday there was the wreck – with its incumbent expenses – hospital costs, cost of a new car, and so forth. Sometimes it seems like we will never get ahead for getting behind. Finally I said that I was convinced that God has something good in all this for Norma and me. I don’t know what and I don’t know when – I can’t tell you how or why – but I am certain that one day all of this stuff will make perfect sense and we will be blessed even more than we already have been. How’s that for a run-on sentence. Please forgive me, Miss Carr.
I guess I need to explain that Mrs. Grace Carr was my eight grade English teacher. She was very meticulous about how her classroom was set up. And she was also very quick to impose punishment upon those who were unruly. I cannot tell you how many times I wrote five times to the line, both sides of the page “I will not move my desk in Mrs. Carr’s eighth grade English class.” She was a dear lady and a good teacher.
One could look at the first part of the verse as either a complaint or a compliment. When we are going through tough times – or scary times – or difficult times, it is easy to ask why God would allow us to go through what we are going through. At the same time, there is comfort in knowing that what we are going through is ultimately for our benefit because as the second portion of the verse says: “You have made my lot secure”. So even though it’s tough or scary or difficult, we don’t really have to worry because God holds us secure in His hands. I’ll bet Pastor James is about to shout – at least I hope so. Perhaps you are, too!!!
Look, in my sixty plus years of struggle I have learned that God is capable of taking care of me – and those I love dearly. So I know, I know, I KNOW that God has something good in store for Norma and for me. I also know that I am not unique. Many of you have or are going through much more difficulties than we are. I am confident that God has YOU in His secure arms as well. And that is exciting to me on this good morning.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
Psalm 16:5 (New International Version)
5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
I have grabbed just this one verse from tonight’s Bible study. Saturday, as we made our way up to visit with our children and grandchildren, we talked about our recent rash of outgo of income. Norma’s eye surgery and subsequent visits have been expensive. There have been some crises in our family where I felt the need to meet some needs. And, then, Friday there was the wreck – with its incumbent expenses – hospital costs, cost of a new car, and so forth. Sometimes it seems like we will never get ahead for getting behind. Finally I said that I was convinced that God has something good in all this for Norma and me. I don’t know what and I don’t know when – I can’t tell you how or why – but I am certain that one day all of this stuff will make perfect sense and we will be blessed even more than we already have been. How’s that for a run-on sentence. Please forgive me, Miss Carr.
I guess I need to explain that Mrs. Grace Carr was my eight grade English teacher. She was very meticulous about how her classroom was set up. And she was also very quick to impose punishment upon those who were unruly. I cannot tell you how many times I wrote five times to the line, both sides of the page “I will not move my desk in Mrs. Carr’s eighth grade English class.” She was a dear lady and a good teacher.
One could look at the first part of the verse as either a complaint or a compliment. When we are going through tough times – or scary times – or difficult times, it is easy to ask why God would allow us to go through what we are going through. At the same time, there is comfort in knowing that what we are going through is ultimately for our benefit because as the second portion of the verse says: “You have made my lot secure”. So even though it’s tough or scary or difficult, we don’t really have to worry because God holds us secure in His hands. I’ll bet Pastor James is about to shout – at least I hope so. Perhaps you are, too!!!
Look, in my sixty plus years of struggle I have learned that God is capable of taking care of me – and those I love dearly. So I know, I know, I KNOW that God has something good in store for Norma and for me. I also know that I am not unique. Many of you have or are going through much more difficulties than we are. I am confident that God has YOU in His secure arms as well. And that is exciting to me on this good morning.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Freedom
05/12/2010
Good Morning!
Romans 8:1-11 (English Standard Version)
Life in the Spirit
1There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.[a] 2For the law of the Spirit of life has set you[b] free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin,[c] he condemned sin in the flesh, 4in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
9You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.Footnotes:
a. Romans 8:1 Some manuscripts add who walk not according to the flesh (but according to the Spirit)
b. Romans 8:2 Some manuscripts me
c. Romans 8:3 Or and as a sin offering
Freedom! What is freedom? Paul writes to you and to me with this message of freedom. What are we free from? We are free from the condemnation that comes from the curse of sin that once ruled our lives. Does that mean we don’t sin anymore? I wish! But I also know that in my own human frailty, there are and will continue to be times where I do not live as I should, do as I could, and love as I ought. Here’s the key, though – the Spirit of God dwells within me (and you), reminding me of that which is God’s will; teaching me how to live in God’s way; correcting me and loving me even in my failure. And that gives me peace.
So, there is truly no condemnation for those of us who are in Christ Jesus. And that makes today and every day blessed.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
Romans 8:1-11 (English Standard Version)
Life in the Spirit
1There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.[a] 2For the law of the Spirit of life has set you[b] free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin,[c] he condemned sin in the flesh, 4in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
9You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.Footnotes:
a. Romans 8:1 Some manuscripts add who walk not according to the flesh (but according to the Spirit)
b. Romans 8:2 Some manuscripts me
c. Romans 8:3 Or and as a sin offering
Freedom! What is freedom? Paul writes to you and to me with this message of freedom. What are we free from? We are free from the condemnation that comes from the curse of sin that once ruled our lives. Does that mean we don’t sin anymore? I wish! But I also know that in my own human frailty, there are and will continue to be times where I do not live as I should, do as I could, and love as I ought. Here’s the key, though – the Spirit of God dwells within me (and you), reminding me of that which is God’s will; teaching me how to live in God’s way; correcting me and loving me even in my failure. And that gives me peace.
So, there is truly no condemnation for those of us who are in Christ Jesus. And that makes today and every day blessed.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Public Prayer
05/11/2010
Good Morning!
An interesting tidbit was on WSB-TV.com yesterday morning about the Ed Young Senior Center in Port Wentworth Georgia. It seems the director of the center had determined that the saying of a communal blessing was in violation of the separation of church and state … and since a large portion of the meal was provided by federal tax dollars, he deemed that only a moment of silence was appropriate. Funny - I thought the purpose of the people leaving Europe to come to America in the 17th century was about having the freedom to exercise their religion without interference of the government. It seems like our government does endorse a religion – hedonism. This despite the fact that many of the tax dollars that it receives comes from people who believe that God has richly blessed our country and do bow to give thanks at every opportunity – including prayer at meals. It should be noted that the director did back down after the mayor of Port Wentworth got involved.
I can remember Miss Margie Hood – one of those good Christian women who glow with the presence of God – loved to hear the Scripture verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14 (English Standard Version) 14if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
I believe America is at a crisis point as far as freedom of religion is concerned – particularly for people who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We are a peculiar people – called by God to share a message to our fellow human beings. Unfortunately, the trend in America is to attempt to stifle our freedom of speech so that we cannot share that critical message. We should never give up, though. The message is too crucial to be silenced. We cannot allow ourselves to be limited to a moment of silence. We must bravely stand and pray – even at the risk of losing our supper.
Well, that’s my soapbox speech for this good day. To God be the glory each and every day of your life.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
An interesting tidbit was on WSB-TV.com yesterday morning about the Ed Young Senior Center in Port Wentworth Georgia. It seems the director of the center had determined that the saying of a communal blessing was in violation of the separation of church and state … and since a large portion of the meal was provided by federal tax dollars, he deemed that only a moment of silence was appropriate. Funny - I thought the purpose of the people leaving Europe to come to America in the 17th century was about having the freedom to exercise their religion without interference of the government. It seems like our government does endorse a religion – hedonism. This despite the fact that many of the tax dollars that it receives comes from people who believe that God has richly blessed our country and do bow to give thanks at every opportunity – including prayer at meals. It should be noted that the director did back down after the mayor of Port Wentworth got involved.
I can remember Miss Margie Hood – one of those good Christian women who glow with the presence of God – loved to hear the Scripture verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14 (English Standard Version) 14if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
I believe America is at a crisis point as far as freedom of religion is concerned – particularly for people who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We are a peculiar people – called by God to share a message to our fellow human beings. Unfortunately, the trend in America is to attempt to stifle our freedom of speech so that we cannot share that critical message. We should never give up, though. The message is too crucial to be silenced. We cannot allow ourselves to be limited to a moment of silence. We must bravely stand and pray – even at the risk of losing our supper.
Well, that’s my soapbox speech for this good day. To God be the glory each and every day of your life.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Monday, May 10, 2010
A Morning at Grady
Good Morning!
I hope each of you had wonderful weekend. Norma and I certainly did – although it didn’t start out the way we planned. Our plans were to spend Saturday morning as usual – me shopping for groceries; she working at Southern Regional. Then we were headed to Jim and Angie’s to spend Saturday night and to Mom’s on Sunday. We didn’t plan for a Friday trip to Grady hospital or for the S-10 to end up on the scrap heap – but that is what happened Friday.
Norma called me about ten minutes to seven Friday morning to tell me she had been in an accident. She was very distraught – so I gave our grandson Cody a call. He made it lickety-split to where his Mawmaw was. By that time the ambulance had already arrived and she was being treated. The paramedics insisted on taking her down to Grady because her hand looked as if it were broken. When Cody called me, he said her knuckles were pushed bad to the middle of her hand. So I was pretty upset by the time I arrived at Grady. Actually, I beat the ambulance there – and had to sit in the Waiting room for what seemed like forever (about twenty minutes). I finally went back to the desk and was let back into the Emergency area. Norma was there – her hand pretty swollen but not as badly as I had imagined. They x-rayed her all over it seemed like – and we waited. And we waited. And we waited – until about one o’clock when the results came back.
I am convinced that God hears our prayers. Norma didn’t suffer a single broken bone – just a badly bruised left hand and body aches from the sudden stop, the air bag deploying, and the seat belt holding her back.
We did make our trips to Clarkesville and to Hayesville this weekend – and to Acworth as a bonus. Plus my son Michael and his two young men made a special Friday trip to see about Mawmaw. Norma said she could hurt just as much on the road as at home – but she really did make a sacrifice for me to do these things. God has blessed me with such a great wife.
Mother’s day weekend turned out to be a great day for acknowledging God blessings. He blessed me with a good Mom. And He blessed me with a good wife who is mother to my children and Mawmaw to my grandchildren. And He has protected them and all of those close to me. I hope He has done the same for you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
I hope each of you had wonderful weekend. Norma and I certainly did – although it didn’t start out the way we planned. Our plans were to spend Saturday morning as usual – me shopping for groceries; she working at Southern Regional. Then we were headed to Jim and Angie’s to spend Saturday night and to Mom’s on Sunday. We didn’t plan for a Friday trip to Grady hospital or for the S-10 to end up on the scrap heap – but that is what happened Friday.
Norma called me about ten minutes to seven Friday morning to tell me she had been in an accident. She was very distraught – so I gave our grandson Cody a call. He made it lickety-split to where his Mawmaw was. By that time the ambulance had already arrived and she was being treated. The paramedics insisted on taking her down to Grady because her hand looked as if it were broken. When Cody called me, he said her knuckles were pushed bad to the middle of her hand. So I was pretty upset by the time I arrived at Grady. Actually, I beat the ambulance there – and had to sit in the Waiting room for what seemed like forever (about twenty minutes). I finally went back to the desk and was let back into the Emergency area. Norma was there – her hand pretty swollen but not as badly as I had imagined. They x-rayed her all over it seemed like – and we waited. And we waited. And we waited – until about one o’clock when the results came back.
I am convinced that God hears our prayers. Norma didn’t suffer a single broken bone – just a badly bruised left hand and body aches from the sudden stop, the air bag deploying, and the seat belt holding her back.
We did make our trips to Clarkesville and to Hayesville this weekend – and to Acworth as a bonus. Plus my son Michael and his two young men made a special Friday trip to see about Mawmaw. Norma said she could hurt just as much on the road as at home – but she really did make a sacrifice for me to do these things. God has blessed me with such a great wife.
Mother’s day weekend turned out to be a great day for acknowledging God blessings. He blessed me with a good Mom. And He blessed me with a good wife who is mother to my children and Mawmaw to my grandchildren. And He has protected them and all of those close to me. I hope He has done the same for you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Friday, May 7, 2010
Good Morning!
Sunday is Mother’s Day – I know each of you already knew that but I thought I would just throw it out again so no one will forget. I was looking out the window at Norma’s beautiful rose bushes – she has one that is just chock full of orange-yellow roses – and remembered the times we would head to church on Mother’s day with either a red rose for a living mother or a white rose for one who has passed away. And I remembered Grandma Ward. For much of our lives, with Mother having to work to provide for us, Grandma Ward was our “mother figure”. Not that Mom isn’t our mother – it was just she was away and Grandma was there.
I would like to think that who I am is a combination of the good traits of both my Mom and Grandma Ward. Both ladies care about other people. I have chronicled Mother’s care of Jerry for a period of around five years – she got that from her mother, Grandma Ward. The house at 1001 Oakdale was always full of people – Aunt Mae; Cousin Kate; Cousin Ann; us – for awhile; Mom and Dad when they were starting out; Aunt Bette and Uncle David when they were young; even Dr. Ward’s mother-in-law from his first marriage. And Norma and I stayed with Grandma when we were first married. Grandma always welcomed people into her life – not just her home. She cared about them and cared for them. What a marvelous trait to pass on to your children and to your grandchildren. I think about my brother who, as an insurance agent, exhibited this trait to his many customers over the years. And my sister, who as a nurse and as a hospital administrator, naturally gives to other folks. And I could go on with a list of my cousins who do the very same thing – all because of a lady who trained her children who in turn trained their children to value others and to take action.
I am convinced that God places us in the families we have – good or bad – for His purpose. The hard knocks we experience and the good times we enjoy serve to build in us the character that He desires. Our mothers are the key point in developing these characteristics that come bubbling through in our lives. So, this weekend, give God a special thank you for your mom. And if she is still with you and you can, give her a big hug and thank her.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Sunday is Mother’s Day – I know each of you already knew that but I thought I would just throw it out again so no one will forget. I was looking out the window at Norma’s beautiful rose bushes – she has one that is just chock full of orange-yellow roses – and remembered the times we would head to church on Mother’s day with either a red rose for a living mother or a white rose for one who has passed away. And I remembered Grandma Ward. For much of our lives, with Mother having to work to provide for us, Grandma Ward was our “mother figure”. Not that Mom isn’t our mother – it was just she was away and Grandma was there.
I would like to think that who I am is a combination of the good traits of both my Mom and Grandma Ward. Both ladies care about other people. I have chronicled Mother’s care of Jerry for a period of around five years – she got that from her mother, Grandma Ward. The house at 1001 Oakdale was always full of people – Aunt Mae; Cousin Kate; Cousin Ann; us – for awhile; Mom and Dad when they were starting out; Aunt Bette and Uncle David when they were young; even Dr. Ward’s mother-in-law from his first marriage. And Norma and I stayed with Grandma when we were first married. Grandma always welcomed people into her life – not just her home. She cared about them and cared for them. What a marvelous trait to pass on to your children and to your grandchildren. I think about my brother who, as an insurance agent, exhibited this trait to his many customers over the years. And my sister, who as a nurse and as a hospital administrator, naturally gives to other folks. And I could go on with a list of my cousins who do the very same thing – all because of a lady who trained her children who in turn trained their children to value others and to take action.
I am convinced that God places us in the families we have – good or bad – for His purpose. The hard knocks we experience and the good times we enjoy serve to build in us the character that He desires. Our mothers are the key point in developing these characteristics that come bubbling through in our lives. So, this weekend, give God a special thank you for your mom. And if she is still with you and you can, give her a big hug and thank her.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Good Morning!
Psalm 15 (New Century Version)
What the Lord Demands
A psalm of David.
1 Lord, who may enter your Holy Tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 Only those who are innocent
and who do what is right.
Such people speak the truth from their hearts
3 and do not tell lies about others.
They do no wrong to their neighbors
and do not gossip.
4 They do not respect hateful people
but honor those who honor the Lord.
They keep their promises to their neighbors,
even when it hurts.
5 They do not charge interest on money they lend
and do not take money to hurt innocent people.
Whoever does all these things will never be destroyed.
Psalm 15 will be the subject of our Bible study tonight. I spent a few minutes looking at the various translations on BibleGateway.com, just to get the flavor of how different translations present this Psalm.
This is going to be a real good study because we live in times where some folks don’t flinch at doing the opposite of what this Psalm says. I remember an incident from my checkered youth past. Emory Village had a pool hall. And, yes, I was known to frequent it when I was in my early teens. I really enjoyed the game though I wasn’t very good at it. (I can hear some of my golf buddies say “you haven’t changed much – playing a game you’re not very good at”.) Anyway, there was a person who hung out in the pool hall who was very good. He asked me to play – even promised to pay if he won – which he did. When it came time to pay up, he said I owed for the game. Yes, I was snookered. And I had to pay for the game. I was very angry – not only because I had to pay but because I felt like a fool to have even talked with the guy. I made it a point not to ever get around him again. Pretty soon, no one else would either – so who is the real loser?
The principles in this Psalm are just plain good advice:
Accept people at their word
Do what is right
Treat your neighbors right
Be honest
Don’t gossip
Respect and honor people who honor God
Don’t hang with those who don’t
Keep the promises you make – even if it hurts
Be giving
Perhaps I have oversimplified – but I believe that God keeps things simple so that even I can understand what He wants.
I can hardly wait for tonight – but I do hope you will have a good day in the Lord.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Psalm 15 (New Century Version)
What the Lord Demands
A psalm of David.
1 Lord, who may enter your Holy Tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 Only those who are innocent
and who do what is right.
Such people speak the truth from their hearts
3 and do not tell lies about others.
They do no wrong to their neighbors
and do not gossip.
4 They do not respect hateful people
but honor those who honor the Lord.
They keep their promises to their neighbors,
even when it hurts.
5 They do not charge interest on money they lend
and do not take money to hurt innocent people.
Whoever does all these things will never be destroyed.
Psalm 15 will be the subject of our Bible study tonight. I spent a few minutes looking at the various translations on BibleGateway.com, just to get the flavor of how different translations present this Psalm.
This is going to be a real good study because we live in times where some folks don’t flinch at doing the opposite of what this Psalm says. I remember an incident from my checkered youth past. Emory Village had a pool hall. And, yes, I was known to frequent it when I was in my early teens. I really enjoyed the game though I wasn’t very good at it. (I can hear some of my golf buddies say “you haven’t changed much – playing a game you’re not very good at”.) Anyway, there was a person who hung out in the pool hall who was very good. He asked me to play – even promised to pay if he won – which he did. When it came time to pay up, he said I owed for the game. Yes, I was snookered. And I had to pay for the game. I was very angry – not only because I had to pay but because I felt like a fool to have even talked with the guy. I made it a point not to ever get around him again. Pretty soon, no one else would either – so who is the real loser?
The principles in this Psalm are just plain good advice:
Accept people at their word
Do what is right
Treat your neighbors right
Be honest
Don’t gossip
Respect and honor people who honor God
Don’t hang with those who don’t
Keep the promises you make – even if it hurts
Be giving
Perhaps I have oversimplified – but I believe that God keeps things simple so that even I can understand what He wants.
I can hardly wait for tonight – but I do hope you will have a good day in the Lord.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
05/05/2010
Good Morning!
What a gorgeous day we had yesterday here in Atlanta Georgia. The sky was a brilliant blue with just enough clouds to remind one of the day before. And it was a day I got to meet another new friend on the golf course – Ron. As usual, during the course of play, Ron and I got around to talking of matters of faith. I told Ron I was headed to Hayesville to see Mom on Sunday. I am looking forward to the trip because I will get to see my brother Bruce and my sister Claire as well as Mom. We don’t get the opportunity to get together often and, as I age, I find that these times are more meaningful than in the past.
Ron shared that he will share his day with his wife. His mother passed when he was but four years old. He then shared how much God has blessed him in spite of the troubles in his early life. He has three children – all who are successful. And both he and his wife are successful. But he shared that the thing that gives him the most joy is to know that his children have received Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior. The Pentecostal in me almost took control right there on the golf course – but my Presbyterian upbringing was able to contain it until after the shot. You know, I never did get around to asking Ron what his denomination was… I don’t think it really matters as long as Jesus is Lord.
I really needed to run into Ron last night. My spiritual bucket was running a little low. Isn’t amazing how God places people in your path at just the right time to encourage you, build you up, set you straight, or just to love you for who you are. We don’t serve a God who is distant from us…no, we serve a God that is involved in every aspect of our life. And that makes today – and every day – special. God bless you this day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning!
What a gorgeous day we had yesterday here in Atlanta Georgia. The sky was a brilliant blue with just enough clouds to remind one of the day before. And it was a day I got to meet another new friend on the golf course – Ron. As usual, during the course of play, Ron and I got around to talking of matters of faith. I told Ron I was headed to Hayesville to see Mom on Sunday. I am looking forward to the trip because I will get to see my brother Bruce and my sister Claire as well as Mom. We don’t get the opportunity to get together often and, as I age, I find that these times are more meaningful than in the past.
Ron shared that he will share his day with his wife. His mother passed when he was but four years old. He then shared how much God has blessed him in spite of the troubles in his early life. He has three children – all who are successful. And both he and his wife are successful. But he shared that the thing that gives him the most joy is to know that his children have received Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior. The Pentecostal in me almost took control right there on the golf course – but my Presbyterian upbringing was able to contain it until after the shot. You know, I never did get around to asking Ron what his denomination was… I don’t think it really matters as long as Jesus is Lord.
I really needed to run into Ron last night. My spiritual bucket was running a little low. Isn’t amazing how God places people in your path at just the right time to encourage you, build you up, set you straight, or just to love you for who you are. We don’t serve a God who is distant from us…no, we serve a God that is involved in every aspect of our life. And that makes today – and every day – special. God bless you this day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
End of One Journey; Beginning of Another
05/04/2010
Good Morning … and welcome home, Wes and Tamara Banks!!!
Wes and Tamara have returned from Romania after a long stint in that country, sharing the Gospel and setting up new churches. I am sure we will hear a witness of their work shortly – and I am really looking forward to that. Sadly, Wes and Tamara had to leave Romania before their work was done. The financial crisis that has enveloped the world is playing havoc to missionary programs of all denominations. Similarly, giving is down in many of our churches as many people are out of work and struggling to make ends meet. But God is able to work when it appears no work can be accomplished.
In our Sunday Bible study, we have been focusing on Paul’s second missionary journey. This past Sunday we discussed his visit to Thessalonica. He spent three weeks expounding on the Scripture surrounding the Messiah – and in the end, pointed the folks to Jesus Christ. And there were a number of people who were convicted and converted to Christ. But the ones who were not became jealous and stirred up an angry mob against Paul. It appears their ultimate goal was to toss Paul to that angry mob and who knows what would have happened. However, when they couldn’t find Paul, they grabbed his host, Jason, and hauled him up before the court, claiming that Paul was defying the law by proclaiming Jesus was King, instead of Caesar. I thought, as I read, how much of a parallel that is to today where leaders on both sides of issues attempt to gather support by misrepresenting the other side. The end result is chaos.
Paul continued on in his quest to bring the Gospel to the world in spite of the opposition. Christians today encounter similar opposition to the message of Christ. We must not slink away but must boldly stand for our Savior, trusting in His ability to overcome all.
So, welcome home, missionaries. May God speed you to another assignment soon. And may you have a good day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Good Morning … and welcome home, Wes and Tamara Banks!!!
Wes and Tamara have returned from Romania after a long stint in that country, sharing the Gospel and setting up new churches. I am sure we will hear a witness of their work shortly – and I am really looking forward to that. Sadly, Wes and Tamara had to leave Romania before their work was done. The financial crisis that has enveloped the world is playing havoc to missionary programs of all denominations. Similarly, giving is down in many of our churches as many people are out of work and struggling to make ends meet. But God is able to work when it appears no work can be accomplished.
In our Sunday Bible study, we have been focusing on Paul’s second missionary journey. This past Sunday we discussed his visit to Thessalonica. He spent three weeks expounding on the Scripture surrounding the Messiah – and in the end, pointed the folks to Jesus Christ. And there were a number of people who were convicted and converted to Christ. But the ones who were not became jealous and stirred up an angry mob against Paul. It appears their ultimate goal was to toss Paul to that angry mob and who knows what would have happened. However, when they couldn’t find Paul, they grabbed his host, Jason, and hauled him up before the court, claiming that Paul was defying the law by proclaiming Jesus was King, instead of Caesar. I thought, as I read, how much of a parallel that is to today where leaders on both sides of issues attempt to gather support by misrepresenting the other side. The end result is chaos.
Paul continued on in his quest to bring the Gospel to the world in spite of the opposition. Christians today encounter similar opposition to the message of Christ. We must not slink away but must boldly stand for our Savior, trusting in His ability to overcome all.
So, welcome home, missionaries. May God speed you to another assignment soon. And may you have a good day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
Monday, May 3, 2010
Quiet Confidence
Good Morning
My daughter Heather loaned me a CD recently. The name of the group is Selah. There are 15 songs on the CD – eleven of which I find really great. Because this group is not “Southern Gospel” I decided to do a little research on them. I found this to be a trio of young singers who are dedicated to the Lord.
The 15th song on the CD is entitled “I Will Carry You”. Some of you may have already heard it – and some may know the story behind the song. One of the singers in the trio is a young father of three girls. He and his wife were expecting a fourth child in 2008 – but in the eighteen week of pregnancy it was discovered that the baby had multiple defects that would not permit it to survive. In fact, the doctors said the baby would only live just a few minutes. The doctors expected the couple to elect to have an abortion. The parents elected to carry the child. Audrey Caroline was born by caesarean birth in the 34th week. There is a YouTube video of her birth and the love that surrounded her for her short life. I watched it the other night – and was amazed to observe as the parents, grandparents and Audrey’s three sisters held and cuddled her. The thing that amazed me was there was no sadness … just great joy at the coming of a new life. Two and a half hours following her birth, Jesus asked if He could hold Audrey Caroline in His great arms … and He gently took her home to stay with Him.
Christians are not immune to heartache. Many face the prospect of the pain, hurt, grief, and disappointment. The difference is in the quiet confidence we can have that all things work together for our good. It is that quiet confidence that allowed Audrey Caroline’s parents to bring her into the world even knowing that her life would be brief. It is that quiet confidence that allows you and me to face today’s ups and downs. It is that quiet confidence that allowed the Apostle Paul to pen: 36As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
There isn’t anything that can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus our Lord. Have a blessed day…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
My daughter Heather loaned me a CD recently. The name of the group is Selah. There are 15 songs on the CD – eleven of which I find really great. Because this group is not “Southern Gospel” I decided to do a little research on them. I found this to be a trio of young singers who are dedicated to the Lord.
The 15th song on the CD is entitled “I Will Carry You”. Some of you may have already heard it – and some may know the story behind the song. One of the singers in the trio is a young father of three girls. He and his wife were expecting a fourth child in 2008 – but in the eighteen week of pregnancy it was discovered that the baby had multiple defects that would not permit it to survive. In fact, the doctors said the baby would only live just a few minutes. The doctors expected the couple to elect to have an abortion. The parents elected to carry the child. Audrey Caroline was born by caesarean birth in the 34th week. There is a YouTube video of her birth and the love that surrounded her for her short life. I watched it the other night – and was amazed to observe as the parents, grandparents and Audrey’s three sisters held and cuddled her. The thing that amazed me was there was no sadness … just great joy at the coming of a new life. Two and a half hours following her birth, Jesus asked if He could hold Audrey Caroline in His great arms … and He gently took her home to stay with Him.
Christians are not immune to heartache. Many face the prospect of the pain, hurt, grief, and disappointment. The difference is in the quiet confidence we can have that all things work together for our good. It is that quiet confidence that allowed Audrey Caroline’s parents to bring her into the world even knowing that her life would be brief. It is that quiet confidence that allows you and me to face today’s ups and downs. It is that quiet confidence that allowed the Apostle Paul to pen: 36As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
There isn’t anything that can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus our Lord. Have a blessed day…
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Fatdad5@comcast.net
"Preach the Gospel everyday - and if you have to, use words" ... St. Francis of Assisi
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