Good Morning!
Psalm 100 (English Standard Version)
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
A Psalm for giving thanks.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;[a]
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 100:3 Or and not we ourselves
Psalm 100 was one of the Bible Study passages for yesterday … I hope you got a chance to read through it.
What a beautiful song for us to “sing” to God. When I think about making a joyful noise, I am reminded that not all noise is beautiful, on key, timed perfectly. No, a joyful noise can be off key and ill timed. God’s ears hears beautiful music – even when our ears miss the tune.
So make some “music” this weekend – thank God for His wonderful steadfast love and His faithfulness to you and your loved ones. I am sure God is waiting to hear you.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Plumb Tired
10/28/2010
Good Morning!
I am plumb tuckered out as I sit down to write this Good Morning. The Gant household has been battling a stopped up sink since Sunday week ago when some dimwit (me) poured cream of potato soup down the drain. It is now almost eight o’clock Wednesday evening and the plumbers who have been here since ten are still here. But, Miss N’s house has a new water heater, the washing machine lines have been moved to the utility room, drains have been set at 6774.
Unfortunately, the drain at 6766 is still stopped up but our toilet no longer leaks and we have new drainage from the utility room to the main. The plumbers say the line had only about an inch to drain … which we suspected since the house is fifty years old and the drains are cast iron.
My day has been spent replacing bathroom floor – which was rotted. I am covered in sawdust. I am a sight. But God is good … and His love and mercy endures for all generations.
We also had our bug guy back out today. And he shared his testimony with us … God knows I need that constant encouragement. It is really great to know that are surrounded by people who love God and aren’t afraid to testify to His goodness. It make as difficult day more wonderful.
I got a praise from my buddy Fred that I want to share with you. You know, Fred had a stroke earlier this year … but I am stealing his thunder:
Jim,
Thought I would take some time to give God the praises for some answered prayer. First, my sister, Barbara Blair, has greatly improved in her health. She is now with her son and being cared for at home. While she, like others, always need prayer, she can be removed from the daily list.
Second, Howard is holding up under the circumstances. He calls once a week and can talk for about 15 minutes. He 'misses' a lot of things, but uses this to help gain an appreciation of what God provides. He has at least 4 more months there.
Finally, I saved what seems the best for last. I had my eye examination yesterday, Tuesday (6 months from the stroke) and the doctor, after examining my eyes (and I quote) "Wow, I've never seen this before." Two things have happened. The loss of control of the left eye's pupa(?) that was highly evident after the stroke occurred is gone! The doctor said she has never seen this type of recovery before; this is usually a permanent residual effect from a stroke. She also was amazed that the Diabetic Retinopathy that was evident the last exam is also completely gone! No evidence of it. My vision has cleared (not deteriorated) since the last time.
I'm certainly not boasting as this is something I cannot control; but God, through prayer, can; and I give Him all the praise and glory!
Have a Blessed Day!
Fred & Daisy Hottensen
Pastor Cook, please stop running up and down the aisle … on second thought, please keep running up and down the aisle. (I’m just picking on you, James – I love ya, brother.)
I truly believe that the faithful prayers of our people have a definite impact. Thank you – thank you – thank you for your diligence.
We have a report on Sue Stiltner and another prayer request to pass along. Here’s Anna’s email:
Mom's cousin Sue had a 10-hour surgery on Monday. As of last night, she was still in ICU (I think). They think they got all of the tumor. It was tricky because the tumor had gotten into an artery and some of her veins feeding off it. At least, that's how I pictured it when Mom updated me last night.
Also - she would like us to add her cousin Barbara's daughter Carrie to the list. Carrie is about Rachel's age (20) and has a huge kidney stone they are going to try to blast tomorrow (Thurs.) sometime. They have attempted this before but the stone was not in a good place to do it, so they are trying again tomorrow.
Love you! See you tomorrow.
am
So we have a task before us – praying for Sue and for Carrie. May God bless them at this present time.
I don’t want it to go without saying that I love you guys. The word “agape” means God’s merciful undeserved love that He gives free to you and to me. My wish for you is that your day be blessed and that God present you with a glimpse of His power.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Alphonso and Max finally got the clog out around 8:30 – so the day ended successfully at 6766.
Good Morning!
I am plumb tuckered out as I sit down to write this Good Morning. The Gant household has been battling a stopped up sink since Sunday week ago when some dimwit (me) poured cream of potato soup down the drain. It is now almost eight o’clock Wednesday evening and the plumbers who have been here since ten are still here. But, Miss N’s house has a new water heater, the washing machine lines have been moved to the utility room, drains have been set at 6774.
Unfortunately, the drain at 6766 is still stopped up but our toilet no longer leaks and we have new drainage from the utility room to the main. The plumbers say the line had only about an inch to drain … which we suspected since the house is fifty years old and the drains are cast iron.
My day has been spent replacing bathroom floor – which was rotted. I am covered in sawdust. I am a sight. But God is good … and His love and mercy endures for all generations.
We also had our bug guy back out today. And he shared his testimony with us … God knows I need that constant encouragement. It is really great to know that are surrounded by people who love God and aren’t afraid to testify to His goodness. It make as difficult day more wonderful.
I got a praise from my buddy Fred that I want to share with you. You know, Fred had a stroke earlier this year … but I am stealing his thunder:
Jim,
Thought I would take some time to give God the praises for some answered prayer. First, my sister, Barbara Blair, has greatly improved in her health. She is now with her son and being cared for at home. While she, like others, always need prayer, she can be removed from the daily list.
Second, Howard is holding up under the circumstances. He calls once a week and can talk for about 15 minutes. He 'misses' a lot of things, but uses this to help gain an appreciation of what God provides. He has at least 4 more months there.
Finally, I saved what seems the best for last. I had my eye examination yesterday, Tuesday (6 months from the stroke) and the doctor, after examining my eyes (and I quote) "Wow, I've never seen this before." Two things have happened. The loss of control of the left eye's pupa(?) that was highly evident after the stroke occurred is gone! The doctor said she has never seen this type of recovery before; this is usually a permanent residual effect from a stroke. She also was amazed that the Diabetic Retinopathy that was evident the last exam is also completely gone! No evidence of it. My vision has cleared (not deteriorated) since the last time.
I'm certainly not boasting as this is something I cannot control; but God, through prayer, can; and I give Him all the praise and glory!
Have a Blessed Day!
Fred & Daisy Hottensen
Pastor Cook, please stop running up and down the aisle … on second thought, please keep running up and down the aisle. (I’m just picking on you, James – I love ya, brother.)
I truly believe that the faithful prayers of our people have a definite impact. Thank you – thank you – thank you for your diligence.
We have a report on Sue Stiltner and another prayer request to pass along. Here’s Anna’s email:
Mom's cousin Sue had a 10-hour surgery on Monday. As of last night, she was still in ICU (I think). They think they got all of the tumor. It was tricky because the tumor had gotten into an artery and some of her veins feeding off it. At least, that's how I pictured it when Mom updated me last night.
Also - she would like us to add her cousin Barbara's daughter Carrie to the list. Carrie is about Rachel's age (20) and has a huge kidney stone they are going to try to blast tomorrow (Thurs.) sometime. They have attempted this before but the stone was not in a good place to do it, so they are trying again tomorrow.
Love you! See you tomorrow.
am
So we have a task before us – praying for Sue and for Carrie. May God bless them at this present time.
I don’t want it to go without saying that I love you guys. The word “agape” means God’s merciful undeserved love that He gives free to you and to me. My wish for you is that your day be blessed and that God present you with a glimpse of His power.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Alphonso and Max finally got the clog out around 8:30 – so the day ended successfully at 6766.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Politics
Good Morning!
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
Are you about as sick of it as I am? Can you hardly wait until November 3rd when all the attack ads are put away for another two years? Can you stomach one more analysis program where one or more commentators is declaring their hatred of one of the candidates?
I don’t talk about politics often in these good mornings – but I am going to today. I don’t care if you are a conservative or a liberal or an in-between. Your party affiliation or lack thereof makes no difference to me. My concern is that Americans have begun to hate each other just because of politics – that includes Christians, and Jews and Muslims and others. Why? Because we demonize people who choose to believe differently politically than we do.
The bottom line is that we should evaluate our values and take a stance. And we should enter into amicable debate. But we should never allow our political convictions to overcome our love for God’s creation – mankind. At the end of the day, we are commanded to love one another. Here’s what Jesus said about hatred:
Matthew 5:43-48 (English Standard Version)
Love Your Enemies
43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers,[a] what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 5:47 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to brothers or to brothers and sisters
Brother Shuler’s point is that if we return hatred for hatred, all we are doing is validating hatred as being reasonable. Well, it is not! Not for the Christian! We are commanded by Jesus to love one another – and I think He means everybody. We can hate the sin a person is engaged in … but we should never hate the sinner for he / she is the creation of God.
Let’s purpose to love the unlovely today – and give God the glory.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Cheri and Conner Kennerly need our prayers during this difficult time in their lives.
Shared Praises:
Mom called me last night with a report from the doctor. He examined her and says that he doesn’t find anything to worry about – fatty deposits occur as ladies age. They were not able to do the mammogram – it isn’t fully installed yet – but he told Mom not to worry. She is on the schedule for an exam but he doesn’t think it will reveal anything (just as the first one didn’t). She is very grateful for your prayers and your concern – and basically told me to let you know this. And I do what Momma says do.
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
Are you about as sick of it as I am? Can you hardly wait until November 3rd when all the attack ads are put away for another two years? Can you stomach one more analysis program where one or more commentators is declaring their hatred of one of the candidates?
I don’t talk about politics often in these good mornings – but I am going to today. I don’t care if you are a conservative or a liberal or an in-between. Your party affiliation or lack thereof makes no difference to me. My concern is that Americans have begun to hate each other just because of politics – that includes Christians, and Jews and Muslims and others. Why? Because we demonize people who choose to believe differently politically than we do.
The bottom line is that we should evaluate our values and take a stance. And we should enter into amicable debate. But we should never allow our political convictions to overcome our love for God’s creation – mankind. At the end of the day, we are commanded to love one another. Here’s what Jesus said about hatred:
Matthew 5:43-48 (English Standard Version)
Love Your Enemies
43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers,[a] what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 5:47 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to brothers or to brothers and sisters
Brother Shuler’s point is that if we return hatred for hatred, all we are doing is validating hatred as being reasonable. Well, it is not! Not for the Christian! We are commanded by Jesus to love one another – and I think He means everybody. We can hate the sin a person is engaged in … but we should never hate the sinner for he / she is the creation of God.
Let’s purpose to love the unlovely today – and give God the glory.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Cheri and Conner Kennerly need our prayers during this difficult time in their lives.
Shared Praises:
Mom called me last night with a report from the doctor. He examined her and says that he doesn’t find anything to worry about – fatty deposits occur as ladies age. They were not able to do the mammogram – it isn’t fully installed yet – but he told Mom not to worry. She is on the schedule for an exam but he doesn’t think it will reveal anything (just as the first one didn’t). She is very grateful for your prayers and your concern – and basically told me to let you know this. And I do what Momma says do.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Communication Tools
Good Morning!
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
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
As we continue looking at the ten lessons from 25 years of ministry as given by Bill Shuler, we see two points: the Bible and prayer. I am sure I have said this before but it doesn’t hurt to repeat: the Bible and prayer are our communication tools.
It seems as if every time I open the Scripture (the Bible) there is something there that God has prepared just for me. Now I will admit quickly that there are some passages that bumfoozle me … but I am sure there will come a time when God will reveal His meaning. Still, when I am struggling with the junk that goes on in my life, I know God has dealt with the problem before … and my answer is in His Word. And I know that I can pray and He will answer me.
The more I read God’s Word and the more I pray, the more sense life makes to me. It is that simple. God really wants us to know Him and His will for us. Let’s use our communication tools. And let’s rejoice in the results.
Several has asked about Mom (Leta Harris or Grandma Leta). She called Sunday night. She noticed some abnormalities in her breast and has had her regular doctor check it out. He wants her to have a second mammogram today at eleven in Murphy NC. Mom will be 87 November 6th – so keep her in your thoughts and prayers today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Miss N returned to work today and is feeling exhausted but otherwise fine.
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
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
As we continue looking at the ten lessons from 25 years of ministry as given by Bill Shuler, we see two points: the Bible and prayer. I am sure I have said this before but it doesn’t hurt to repeat: the Bible and prayer are our communication tools.
It seems as if every time I open the Scripture (the Bible) there is something there that God has prepared just for me. Now I will admit quickly that there are some passages that bumfoozle me … but I am sure there will come a time when God will reveal His meaning. Still, when I am struggling with the junk that goes on in my life, I know God has dealt with the problem before … and my answer is in His Word. And I know that I can pray and He will answer me.
The more I read God’s Word and the more I pray, the more sense life makes to me. It is that simple. God really wants us to know Him and His will for us. Let’s use our communication tools. And let’s rejoice in the results.
Several has asked about Mom (Leta Harris or Grandma Leta). She called Sunday night. She noticed some abnormalities in her breast and has had her regular doctor check it out. He wants her to have a second mammogram today at eleven in Murphy NC. Mom will be 87 November 6th – so keep her in your thoughts and prayers today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Shared Praises:
Miss N returned to work today and is feeling exhausted but otherwise fine.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Great Weekend
10/25/2010
Good Morning!
For those readers who don’t know me, I enjoy playing golf. Now I am not very good at the game … but that’s okay because for me it truly is just that … a game I enjoy playing. But there are many days when I am playing golf that it turns into a time to worship God. And this weekend was one of those times for me.
Friday afternoon I got out on the course by about four in the afternoon. I decided to play the back nine since I had played the front nine earlier in the week. I played the tenth hole with a couple of guys who normally play in Southwest Atlanta. We had gotten caught in the backlog so I just teamed up with them for that hole so we could move along. Eleven and twelve I played by myself – but I was aware of a twosome that was catching up with me. On thirteen I was joined by Lee and Rob who invited me to play with them. Before we finished the round, we had gotten to know each other pretty good – with Lee sharing his testimony with me. He once had been caught up in drugs … but God redeemed him and has blessed him with a masonry business. As an entrepreneur, Lee lives life by faith – and his faith is in Jesus Christ. I remarked to him that it is uncanny how when I hook up with someone new on the course, we usually end up talking about Jesus Christ … and usually it the other person who brings Jesus up. But is that not how life should be for fellow believers … each recognizing the brilliant light of Jesus shining through the other? I think so.
While we were playing the round, my buddies Kelvin, Tim and Mike were right behind us – and we met in the parking lot right after they finished. It was a good time of fellowship and sharing. Tim and I had talked about playing Saturday but he had cut his finger Thursday so he was going to take it easy. However, Mike and I hooked up for a game Saturday morning.
Saturday morning we had a great time playing the front nine. Our scores were spectacular but scoring really didn’t matter. Mike had an issue he needed to talk out … and I had the time to listen. You know, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason … we should spend twice the time listening before we speak. A part of ministering to one another is learning to listen to your brother or sister. People often are reluctant to go to a hospital or a funeral home because they don’t know what to say. Knowing what to say isn’t that important – being there and being available to listen is far more important. Sometimes it is the hug more than the “I love you” that is the balm that heals. I thank God that He didn’t leave us here alone to face life’s challenges but gave us brothers and sisters in Christ who pray for us, and listen to us, and give us comfort in our time of need.
I did not play golf Sunday. Instead I went to Williamson where we continued our study in Paul’s first letter to the called out ones in Thessalonica. We studied the first twelve verses of chapter 4 – where Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue their good walk but to continue on their journey to sanctification. We should realize – and I know I do – that just because we have accepted Jesus that we have not “arrived”. No – we are redeemed but we are like a diamond in the rough. God keeps chipping away the rough spots – day by day, moment by moment and breath by breath – until the light of Christ shines through us. It is a process that for me has taken most of my lifetime and will continue until I am in His presence. The chipping away often comes in the form of trials that I go through – where I learn to trust God with my life and my life needs. In the case of the Thessalonians, the major obstacle they had to face was sexual immorality – not necessarily by them but by their culture. We learned the Grecian culture was an “anything goes” culture (and parallels much of today’s culture). Paul exhorted the church to not do those things. Here’s what he says”
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (English Standard Version)
A Life Pleasing to God
1Finally, then, brothers,[a] we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. 2For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3For this is the will of God, your sanctification:[b] that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4that each one of you know how to control his own body[c] in holiness and honor, 5not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
9Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, 10for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, 11and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, 12so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 10, 13
b. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Or your holiness
c. 1 Thessalonians 4:4 Or how to take a wife for himself; Greek how to possess his own vessel
Paul tells us to love one another – not only with brotherly love but with the love that comes from God’s indwelling. This follows Christ command to us to love one another.
Paul encourages us to live quietly … simple lives committed to God.
Paul encourages us to mind our own affairs – don’t be busy bodies but be available to those in need.
And finally, we are to do what God has talented us to do … in Paul’s case and in many others, to work with our hands.
The ultimate purpose is a life (Christian walk) that honors God and draws people to the message of Jesus Christ. For me, this is a journey sometimes filled with some rocks and ruts and mud holes but one that get smoother each day. And today is another day on that journey. May God bless you on your day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Leta Harris (my Mom) – doctor’s appt. Tuesday
Good Morning!
For those readers who don’t know me, I enjoy playing golf. Now I am not very good at the game … but that’s okay because for me it truly is just that … a game I enjoy playing. But there are many days when I am playing golf that it turns into a time to worship God. And this weekend was one of those times for me.
Friday afternoon I got out on the course by about four in the afternoon. I decided to play the back nine since I had played the front nine earlier in the week. I played the tenth hole with a couple of guys who normally play in Southwest Atlanta. We had gotten caught in the backlog so I just teamed up with them for that hole so we could move along. Eleven and twelve I played by myself – but I was aware of a twosome that was catching up with me. On thirteen I was joined by Lee and Rob who invited me to play with them. Before we finished the round, we had gotten to know each other pretty good – with Lee sharing his testimony with me. He once had been caught up in drugs … but God redeemed him and has blessed him with a masonry business. As an entrepreneur, Lee lives life by faith – and his faith is in Jesus Christ. I remarked to him that it is uncanny how when I hook up with someone new on the course, we usually end up talking about Jesus Christ … and usually it the other person who brings Jesus up. But is that not how life should be for fellow believers … each recognizing the brilliant light of Jesus shining through the other? I think so.
While we were playing the round, my buddies Kelvin, Tim and Mike were right behind us – and we met in the parking lot right after they finished. It was a good time of fellowship and sharing. Tim and I had talked about playing Saturday but he had cut his finger Thursday so he was going to take it easy. However, Mike and I hooked up for a game Saturday morning.
Saturday morning we had a great time playing the front nine. Our scores were spectacular but scoring really didn’t matter. Mike had an issue he needed to talk out … and I had the time to listen. You know, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason … we should spend twice the time listening before we speak. A part of ministering to one another is learning to listen to your brother or sister. People often are reluctant to go to a hospital or a funeral home because they don’t know what to say. Knowing what to say isn’t that important – being there and being available to listen is far more important. Sometimes it is the hug more than the “I love you” that is the balm that heals. I thank God that He didn’t leave us here alone to face life’s challenges but gave us brothers and sisters in Christ who pray for us, and listen to us, and give us comfort in our time of need.
I did not play golf Sunday. Instead I went to Williamson where we continued our study in Paul’s first letter to the called out ones in Thessalonica. We studied the first twelve verses of chapter 4 – where Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue their good walk but to continue on their journey to sanctification. We should realize – and I know I do – that just because we have accepted Jesus that we have not “arrived”. No – we are redeemed but we are like a diamond in the rough. God keeps chipping away the rough spots – day by day, moment by moment and breath by breath – until the light of Christ shines through us. It is a process that for me has taken most of my lifetime and will continue until I am in His presence. The chipping away often comes in the form of trials that I go through – where I learn to trust God with my life and my life needs. In the case of the Thessalonians, the major obstacle they had to face was sexual immorality – not necessarily by them but by their culture. We learned the Grecian culture was an “anything goes” culture (and parallels much of today’s culture). Paul exhorted the church to not do those things. Here’s what he says”
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (English Standard Version)
A Life Pleasing to God
1Finally, then, brothers,[a] we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. 2For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3For this is the will of God, your sanctification:[b] that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4that each one of you know how to control his own body[c] in holiness and honor, 5not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
9Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, 10for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, 11and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, 12so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 10, 13
b. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Or your holiness
c. 1 Thessalonians 4:4 Or how to take a wife for himself; Greek how to possess his own vessel
Paul tells us to love one another – not only with brotherly love but with the love that comes from God’s indwelling. This follows Christ command to us to love one another.
Paul encourages us to live quietly … simple lives committed to God.
Paul encourages us to mind our own affairs – don’t be busy bodies but be available to those in need.
And finally, we are to do what God has talented us to do … in Paul’s case and in many others, to work with our hands.
The ultimate purpose is a life (Christian walk) that honors God and draws people to the message of Jesus Christ. For me, this is a journey sometimes filled with some rocks and ruts and mud holes but one that get smoother each day. And today is another day on that journey. May God bless you on your day today.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Leta Harris (my Mom) – doctor’s appt. Tuesday
Friday, October 22, 2010
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Good Morning!
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Continuing with our second look at Bill Shuler’s ten lessons he has learned in 25 years, we see lesson number 2.
All of us are familiar with the sordid stories of priests and pastors who have allowed the baser part of life to creep in and destroy their ministries. Our current media makes sure to remind Christians of how unchristian our leadership can be – and in the process attempts to sway public opinion against our Lord. What the media fails to do is to focus on the thousands of other clergy and laity whose walk is exemplary. One such clergy is Reverend Billy Graham. When Reverend Graham and his team were starting out in the mid-1940’s, Cliff Barrow, George Beverly Shea and Billy Graham entered into a covenant to not allow themselves to be put into a compromising position. Over sixty years later we can testify that none of the three ever broke that covenant. But that should not be an amazing statistic – it is what all people who claim the Name of Jesus should aspire to because we represent Jesus to the people of this World.
Paul makes this statement:
Ephesians 5:1-21 (English Standard Version)
Walk in Love
1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous ( that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not become partners with them; 8for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
When we develop personal integrity, our public persona emits that integrity. People just know that what they see is what you are. The King James version uses the term “circumspectly” in this passage – and for good reason. I didn’t do well in the only foreign language I took – no, it’s not English – it is Latin. But what little I do remember is that “circum” means “round” and “spectly” means “looking”. What the combined word means is we are aware of what is in our life and we are doing something about it (mainly confessing our sins and letting Jesus have full control).
So our goal is to develop within us the integrity that spills over and is a witness of Christ in us.
Well, it’s Friday again … and I know you are ready for the weekend. Remember to keep Sam, Kim and Kendra in your prayers as Sam makes his way down to Savannah to be with his wife and daughter. Also don’t forget the Brown family in Chattanooga – especially little Caleb. Your prayers work, folks.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Lesson 2: One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
Continuing with our second look at Bill Shuler’s ten lessons he has learned in 25 years, we see lesson number 2.
All of us are familiar with the sordid stories of priests and pastors who have allowed the baser part of life to creep in and destroy their ministries. Our current media makes sure to remind Christians of how unchristian our leadership can be – and in the process attempts to sway public opinion against our Lord. What the media fails to do is to focus on the thousands of other clergy and laity whose walk is exemplary. One such clergy is Reverend Billy Graham. When Reverend Graham and his team were starting out in the mid-1940’s, Cliff Barrow, George Beverly Shea and Billy Graham entered into a covenant to not allow themselves to be put into a compromising position. Over sixty years later we can testify that none of the three ever broke that covenant. But that should not be an amazing statistic – it is what all people who claim the Name of Jesus should aspire to because we represent Jesus to the people of this World.
Paul makes this statement:
Ephesians 5:1-21 (English Standard Version)
Walk in Love
1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous ( that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not become partners with them; 8for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
When we develop personal integrity, our public persona emits that integrity. People just know that what they see is what you are. The King James version uses the term “circumspectly” in this passage – and for good reason. I didn’t do well in the only foreign language I took – no, it’s not English – it is Latin. But what little I do remember is that “circum” means “round” and “spectly” means “looking”. What the combined word means is we are aware of what is in our life and we are doing something about it (mainly confessing our sins and letting Jesus have full control).
So our goal is to develop within us the integrity that spills over and is a witness of Christ in us.
Well, it’s Friday again … and I know you are ready for the weekend. Remember to keep Sam, Kim and Kendra in your prayers as Sam makes his way down to Savannah to be with his wife and daughter. Also don’t forget the Brown family in Chattanooga – especially little Caleb. Your prayers work, folks.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Lesson 1 - Goal: Redeem the Heart
Good Morning!
One more time…
I really do like Reverend Shuler’s ten lessons – so I thought I would expound on them from time to time. So here is number 1: “The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem a heart.”
All of us have been taught that there are two subjects to avoid in a conversation: religion and politics. That rule has been drilled into us so deeply that some of us refuse to discuss either – choosing to keep our faith and our values to ourselves. Well, I don’t agree with the rule – perhaps that makes me a rebel … or perhaps I just have a different take on the subject.
I think it is perfectly all right to state your political values. We should not be afraid to take a stand on important issues that impact all of America – abortion, gay marriage, healthcare, taxes, spending are subjects that impact each of us – and we should have an opinion and not be afraid to state it.
And it is perfectly all right to publically proclaim your faith. America was founded on the principles of freedom OF religion and freedom OF speech. I have as much right to state that I am a believer in Jesus Christ as the atheist has to proclaim his (mistaken) belief that there is no god.
The key to either point is to make your statement in such a manner that those hearing are encouraged to listen rather than to argue. Sometimes that is not easy … sometimes our passion overcomes our ability to reason. We should keep in our mind the admonishment of the Proverbist that states:
Proverbs 15:1-3 (English Standard Version)
1 A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Remember our role is to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ to those who do not know Him. Included in that group are people who passionately believe that Christianity is evil – for a number of reasons. And some will never listen to even the soundest of reasoning – but don’t lose every one while winning the debate.
The goal is to redeem a heart.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
One more time…
I really do like Reverend Shuler’s ten lessons – so I thought I would expound on them from time to time. So here is number 1: “The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem a heart.”
All of us have been taught that there are two subjects to avoid in a conversation: religion and politics. That rule has been drilled into us so deeply that some of us refuse to discuss either – choosing to keep our faith and our values to ourselves. Well, I don’t agree with the rule – perhaps that makes me a rebel … or perhaps I just have a different take on the subject.
I think it is perfectly all right to state your political values. We should not be afraid to take a stand on important issues that impact all of America – abortion, gay marriage, healthcare, taxes, spending are subjects that impact each of us – and we should have an opinion and not be afraid to state it.
And it is perfectly all right to publically proclaim your faith. America was founded on the principles of freedom OF religion and freedom OF speech. I have as much right to state that I am a believer in Jesus Christ as the atheist has to proclaim his (mistaken) belief that there is no god.
The key to either point is to make your statement in such a manner that those hearing are encouraged to listen rather than to argue. Sometimes that is not easy … sometimes our passion overcomes our ability to reason. We should keep in our mind the admonishment of the Proverbist that states:
Proverbs 15:1-3 (English Standard Version)
1 A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Remember our role is to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ to those who do not know Him. Included in that group are people who passionately believe that Christianity is evil – for a number of reasons. And some will never listen to even the soundest of reasoning – but don’t lose every one while winning the debate.
The goal is to redeem a heart.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Prayers for Caleb
10/20/2010
Good Morning!
If you haven’t had a chance, you should watch the video of the parents of Caleb Brown pleading for our prayers for their son. A quick synopsis is that they were hiking when a landslide resulted in Caleb being struck with a boulder. The couple thought the child was dead – but it just so happens that an EMT was close by and determined the child was still living. So Dad takes off up the trail and makes it about half way … when another EMT is available to take the child further up the trail to another EMT who completes the journey. AND there was also a nurse available on site!!! All of these wonderful events were “coincidences” … right….
Dad’s word of testimony is that he and his wife had walked with God and KNOW the power of prayer … and so they ask that we pray. And pray we must.
You will remember that I asked several days ago for prayer for a man who attempted suicide. The family was concerned that the man would never agree to going into assisted living once he was stabilized. The fear was that he would become extremely combative … and so we asked for prayer. Well I received word that he has agreed to be moved to assisted living without a fuss.
Prayer changes things, folks. When things appear to be at the very worst and we go to God and spill our hearts out in prayer, He listens.
When Miss N was in the hospital in August – before we knew about the tumor – on Saturday afternoon she began to really suffer pain. I was petrified … and I was powerless. And I prayed that God would give her relief. Within a few minutes one of the gastro doctors came in and noticed that the tube running down her throat wasn’t inserted far enough – the result being the pain Norma was suffering. Just another coincidence, I guess.
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
Prayer – an opportunity to talk with God. And a joy for each new day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Jim:
Mom has asked for prayer for her cousin Sue Stiltner. Sue has been on our list with a pancreatic tumor. She has been in chemo/radiation to shrink the tumor, which has occurred, but it is still affecting the surrounding arteries. On Monday, 10/25, they are doing surgery to remove the tumor as well as parts of her colon, pancreas, and stomach. The surgery is expected to last 6-7 hours.
Thanks for all you do!
anna
Also, add my golf buddy Tim McCullough to your daily list.
And don’t forget Caleb Brown – the two year old who was hit by a boulder in Fall Creek Falls last Saturday.
Good Morning!
If you haven’t had a chance, you should watch the video of the parents of Caleb Brown pleading for our prayers for their son. A quick synopsis is that they were hiking when a landslide resulted in Caleb being struck with a boulder. The couple thought the child was dead – but it just so happens that an EMT was close by and determined the child was still living. So Dad takes off up the trail and makes it about half way … when another EMT is available to take the child further up the trail to another EMT who completes the journey. AND there was also a nurse available on site!!! All of these wonderful events were “coincidences” … right….
Dad’s word of testimony is that he and his wife had walked with God and KNOW the power of prayer … and so they ask that we pray. And pray we must.
You will remember that I asked several days ago for prayer for a man who attempted suicide. The family was concerned that the man would never agree to going into assisted living once he was stabilized. The fear was that he would become extremely combative … and so we asked for prayer. Well I received word that he has agreed to be moved to assisted living without a fuss.
Prayer changes things, folks. When things appear to be at the very worst and we go to God and spill our hearts out in prayer, He listens.
When Miss N was in the hospital in August – before we knew about the tumor – on Saturday afternoon she began to really suffer pain. I was petrified … and I was powerless. And I prayed that God would give her relief. Within a few minutes one of the gastro doctors came in and noticed that the tube running down her throat wasn’t inserted far enough – the result being the pain Norma was suffering. Just another coincidence, I guess.
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
Prayer – an opportunity to talk with God. And a joy for each new day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
Jim:
Mom has asked for prayer for her cousin Sue Stiltner. Sue has been on our list with a pancreatic tumor. She has been in chemo/radiation to shrink the tumor, which has occurred, but it is still affecting the surrounding arteries. On Monday, 10/25, they are doing surgery to remove the tumor as well as parts of her colon, pancreas, and stomach. The surgery is expected to last 6-7 hours.
Thanks for all you do!
anna
Also, add my golf buddy Tim McCullough to your daily list.
And don’t forget Caleb Brown – the two year old who was hit by a boulder in Fall Creek Falls last Saturday.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Ten Lessons
Good Morning!
I ran across this on Fox News last week and think that it is worth sharing. Bill Shuler is the author and is the Lead Pastor at Capital Life Church in Arlington Virginia, just across the river from Washington D.C. I did check out the website and encourage you to do the same – especially the 2:42 groups.
This month I celebrate 25 years of full-time ministry. During this time I have been honored to serve as a university chaplain, to minister in people in 36 nations and in my current role to serve as Lead Pastor of Capital Life Church in Arlington, Virginia.
When I began in the ministry 25 years ago Ronald Reagan was beginning his second term as president, top entertainers were gathering together to sing, “We are the World” and "Back to the Future" was the highest-grossing film.
In the last 25 years I have witnessed the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new kind of war that brought forth the worst attack on U. S. soil in our nation’s history.
I now have what few could have foreseen just 25 years ago: A GPS system in my car, a cell phone in my hand and a DVR in my living room. Our world has changed.
What I have learned is that the Psalmist knew what he was talking about when he said, “If the Lord delights in a man’s way he makes his steps firm.” The last 25 years have only reaffirmed the convictions that led me to commit my life full-time to serving God.
The following are 10 lessons I’ve learned in 25 years of ministry:
1. The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem the heart.
2. One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
5. Jesus should never be presented as less than he claimed to be: the way, the truth and the life.
6. One should live first and foremost so as to please a heavenly audience.
7. One’s legacy is found not in things that matter least but in people who matter most.
8. The generation into which I am born is my calling and it beckons me to be fully engaged.
9. When Jesus paused while dying on the cross to make certain his mother was cared for, he showed how to prioritize family amidst ministry.
10. Sermons can inspire but it is love in action that makes the most profound impact.
As I look to the next generation of ministers I am keenly aware that they will seek to touch a world that is increasingly distracted. Absolutes will be challenged as those who oppose Biblical precepts become more organized and vocal. Their strength will be in presenting not religion but a relationship with Jesus Christ.
To the generation of ministers who have served before me that includes Billy Graham, Bill Bright and others less well-known but equally faithful I owe a debt of gratitude. They heralded a gospel of love, maintained their integrity and loved their families well. They bequeath to others and me a legacy.
Rev. Bill Shuler is lead pastor at Capital Life Church in Arlington, Virginia. For more visit CapitalLife.org.
I cannot think of a single one of the ten lessons that I would challenge. Congratulations to Bill Shuler on his 25 years and here’s wishing for at least another 25 … unless Jesus comes.
Have a great Tuesday!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I ran across this on Fox News last week and think that it is worth sharing. Bill Shuler is the author and is the Lead Pastor at Capital Life Church in Arlington Virginia, just across the river from Washington D.C. I did check out the website and encourage you to do the same – especially the 2:42 groups.
This month I celebrate 25 years of full-time ministry. During this time I have been honored to serve as a university chaplain, to minister in people in 36 nations and in my current role to serve as Lead Pastor of Capital Life Church in Arlington, Virginia.
When I began in the ministry 25 years ago Ronald Reagan was beginning his second term as president, top entertainers were gathering together to sing, “We are the World” and "Back to the Future" was the highest-grossing film.
In the last 25 years I have witnessed the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new kind of war that brought forth the worst attack on U. S. soil in our nation’s history.
I now have what few could have foreseen just 25 years ago: A GPS system in my car, a cell phone in my hand and a DVR in my living room. Our world has changed.
What I have learned is that the Psalmist knew what he was talking about when he said, “If the Lord delights in a man’s way he makes his steps firm.” The last 25 years have only reaffirmed the convictions that led me to commit my life full-time to serving God.
The following are 10 lessons I’ve learned in 25 years of ministry:
1. The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem the heart.
2. One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.
3. There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.
4. Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.
5. Jesus should never be presented as less than he claimed to be: the way, the truth and the life.
6. One should live first and foremost so as to please a heavenly audience.
7. One’s legacy is found not in things that matter least but in people who matter most.
8. The generation into which I am born is my calling and it beckons me to be fully engaged.
9. When Jesus paused while dying on the cross to make certain his mother was cared for, he showed how to prioritize family amidst ministry.
10. Sermons can inspire but it is love in action that makes the most profound impact.
As I look to the next generation of ministers I am keenly aware that they will seek to touch a world that is increasingly distracted. Absolutes will be challenged as those who oppose Biblical precepts become more organized and vocal. Their strength will be in presenting not religion but a relationship with Jesus Christ.
To the generation of ministers who have served before me that includes Billy Graham, Bill Bright and others less well-known but equally faithful I owe a debt of gratitude. They heralded a gospel of love, maintained their integrity and loved their families well. They bequeath to others and me a legacy.
Rev. Bill Shuler is lead pastor at Capital Life Church in Arlington, Virginia. For more visit CapitalLife.org.
I cannot think of a single one of the ten lessons that I would challenge. Congratulations to Bill Shuler on his 25 years and here’s wishing for at least another 25 … unless Jesus comes.
Have a great Tuesday!
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, October 18, 2010
Enoch Walked With God
Good Morning!
Last month I had a birthday. While that’s not startling news, it is an annual occurrence that signifies both my longevity and also a dwindling of my time allotted on this earth. And while that may seem a weird way of looking at things (I often am accused of being somewhat weird), I contend such thinking is accurate. So we should take advantage of each new day as true blessing from God.
On my way home from Bible study yesterday, I couldn’t get old Enoch out of my mind. If the name is unfamiliar, you can find him listed in the genealogy shown in Genesis 5. Now there is another Enoch – but he is Cain’s son and not the same one listed in Chapter 5. Here’s what we know about Enoch, the son of Jared, the great-great-great grandson of Seth:
Genesis 5:21-24 (English Standard Version)
21When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. 22Enoch walked with God[a] after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24Enoch walked with God, and he was not,[b] for God took him.
Footnotes:
a. Genesis 5:22 Septuagint pleased God
b. Genesis 5:24 Septuagint was not found
If you read the rest of the chapter, you will find that all the other men (with the exception of Noah) listed lived a number of years and died. But Enoch did not die. “Enoch walked with God and was not - for God took him.” Imagine that! Actually, using the years listed in the genealogy, only Adam had died at the time Enoch walked with God – so all of his grandfathers except Adam were still living when Enoch walked with God.
Well, as I am driving along, I am thinking about that old Baptist standard “In The Garden”. You may not remember the hymn but the lyrics are as follows:
In The Garden
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.
Refrain
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
He speaks, and the sound of His voice,
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.
Refrain
I’d stay in the garden with Him
Though the night around me be falling,
But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling.
Refrain
Words: Charles Austin Miles (1912
I began thinking how it might have been when Enoch walked with God. Did Enoch go off to be alone with God one afternoon and while they were communing, God suggested that Enoch go home? And when Enoch arose to depart, did God reach His hand out to Enoch and say “no, I mean to your new home”? And did Enoch take God’s hand and walk side by side into Glory? I don’t know – I am just surmising how it might have been. Or perhaps I am thinking of that time when God calls me home – and hoping that it will be just that way. Not that I am hoping that it will be anytime soon.
Have a great day in the Lord.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
John Pennington – Miss N’s brother
Shared Praises:
Last month I had a birthday. While that’s not startling news, it is an annual occurrence that signifies both my longevity and also a dwindling of my time allotted on this earth. And while that may seem a weird way of looking at things (I often am accused of being somewhat weird), I contend such thinking is accurate. So we should take advantage of each new day as true blessing from God.
On my way home from Bible study yesterday, I couldn’t get old Enoch out of my mind. If the name is unfamiliar, you can find him listed in the genealogy shown in Genesis 5. Now there is another Enoch – but he is Cain’s son and not the same one listed in Chapter 5. Here’s what we know about Enoch, the son of Jared, the great-great-great grandson of Seth:
Genesis 5:21-24 (English Standard Version)
21When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. 22Enoch walked with God[a] after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24Enoch walked with God, and he was not,[b] for God took him.
Footnotes:
a. Genesis 5:22 Septuagint pleased God
b. Genesis 5:24 Septuagint was not found
If you read the rest of the chapter, you will find that all the other men (with the exception of Noah) listed lived a number of years and died. But Enoch did not die. “Enoch walked with God and was not - for God took him.” Imagine that! Actually, using the years listed in the genealogy, only Adam had died at the time Enoch walked with God – so all of his grandfathers except Adam were still living when Enoch walked with God.
Well, as I am driving along, I am thinking about that old Baptist standard “In The Garden”. You may not remember the hymn but the lyrics are as follows:
In The Garden
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.
Refrain
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
He speaks, and the sound of His voice,
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.
Refrain
I’d stay in the garden with Him
Though the night around me be falling,
But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling.
Refrain
Words: Charles Austin Miles (1912
I began thinking how it might have been when Enoch walked with God. Did Enoch go off to be alone with God one afternoon and while they were communing, God suggested that Enoch go home? And when Enoch arose to depart, did God reach His hand out to Enoch and say “no, I mean to your new home”? And did Enoch take God’s hand and walk side by side into Glory? I don’t know – I am just surmising how it might have been. Or perhaps I am thinking of that time when God calls me home – and hoping that it will be just that way. Not that I am hoping that it will be anytime soon.
Have a great day in the Lord.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
New Prayer Need:
John Pennington – Miss N’s brother
Shared Praises:
Friday, October 15, 2010
The Side Porch
Good Morning!
The weather yesterday was gorgeous – cool and breezy. I had a lot of fun playing a round of golf – though my score was about the same as always. God really blessed me with such a good day. I came home and Miss N had the windows open and the breeze was drifting through the house – giving us that natural crispness that only God can supply. The breeze reminded me of Grandma’s side porch where we spent our summers. After dinner the whole household – Grandma, Cud’n Kate, Aunt Mae, Cud’n Anne and Mom – would occupy the chairs while us kids would glide on the glider, enjoying the evening until darkness fell. Good memories…
During the summer, my cousins would make the long trip from the country (Smyrna) and spend a week or two with Grandma. My cousin Leslie was the organizer of the evening entertainment. The side porch became our stage – a place to perform for our elders who were always gracious in their applause.
The verse of the day yesterday was:
Romans 12:2 (English Standard Version)
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
This verse immediately follows Paul’s strong encouragement to us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. In order for us to become a sacrifice we must change our thinking. So Paul encourages us to be transformed by renewing our mind. What does that mean? Well, the world’s prescription for happiness is to get everything we can for ourselves. One only has to view our current economic crisis to understand where “me first – me only” thinking gets us. Paul doesn’t want us to conform to this way of thinking. He wants us to develop the mindset of God who is constantly concerned about all of His creation. When I was growing up, I was taught an acrostic for the word JOY.
Jesus
Others
Yourself
As simple as the acrostic is, it really puts into perspective the mindset that we as Christians should have. As our mind is transformed, we begin to see God’s direction for us. And that makes life exciting. But to get there, we must first let go of the reins and let God take control.
Well, the weekend is upon us. My granddaughter Sarabeth is having a birthday party Saturday. Both Mawmaw and I would love to attend but I don’t think Miss N is up to the trip this weekend. So we will wish Miss Sarabeth a happy eighth birthday from afar.
Great Fall weather… Good memories … A new direction … Have a great weekend! God bless you and keep you all the weekend along.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
The weather yesterday was gorgeous – cool and breezy. I had a lot of fun playing a round of golf – though my score was about the same as always. God really blessed me with such a good day. I came home and Miss N had the windows open and the breeze was drifting through the house – giving us that natural crispness that only God can supply. The breeze reminded me of Grandma’s side porch where we spent our summers. After dinner the whole household – Grandma, Cud’n Kate, Aunt Mae, Cud’n Anne and Mom – would occupy the chairs while us kids would glide on the glider, enjoying the evening until darkness fell. Good memories…
During the summer, my cousins would make the long trip from the country (Smyrna) and spend a week or two with Grandma. My cousin Leslie was the organizer of the evening entertainment. The side porch became our stage – a place to perform for our elders who were always gracious in their applause.
The verse of the day yesterday was:
Romans 12:2 (English Standard Version)
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
This verse immediately follows Paul’s strong encouragement to us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. In order for us to become a sacrifice we must change our thinking. So Paul encourages us to be transformed by renewing our mind. What does that mean? Well, the world’s prescription for happiness is to get everything we can for ourselves. One only has to view our current economic crisis to understand where “me first – me only” thinking gets us. Paul doesn’t want us to conform to this way of thinking. He wants us to develop the mindset of God who is constantly concerned about all of His creation. When I was growing up, I was taught an acrostic for the word JOY.
Jesus
Others
Yourself
As simple as the acrostic is, it really puts into perspective the mindset that we as Christians should have. As our mind is transformed, we begin to see God’s direction for us. And that makes life exciting. But to get there, we must first let go of the reins and let God take control.
Well, the weekend is upon us. My granddaughter Sarabeth is having a birthday party Saturday. Both Mawmaw and I would love to attend but I don’t think Miss N is up to the trip this weekend. So we will wish Miss Sarabeth a happy eighth birthday from afar.
Great Fall weather… Good memories … A new direction … Have a great weekend! God bless you and keep you all the weekend along.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, October 14, 2010
PBPGINFWMY
Good Morning!
Patience … a commodity many lack and most desire. I once asked God to teach me patience … expecting the immediate miraculous endowment of that which I so severely need. I was surprised when I began to encounter difficulties that drove me to the brink rather than the peaceful acceptance of occurrences. I guess I learned that patience is something God wants to develop in us rather than to endow us with … at least that is true for me.
Back in the early 1970’s I attended a seminar in which each attendee was given a button that read:
PBPGINFWMY. Now I know that some of you are attempting to pronounce this difficult word so I will let you off the hook. This message on this strange button was “please be patient God is not finished with me yet”. And that is a true statement.
You know some folks believe that Christian people are supposed to be perfect. Shoot, some Christians think that they have to be perfect. What a frustrating idea. What we fail to realize is that we are a work in progress – sinners being turned into saints day by day, pressure by pressure, until that day when God calls us home. I was thinking about what Jesus said to the Pharisee named Nicodemus … it is one of the few lengthy one on ones that we see from Jesus … let’s listen in:
John 3:1-21 (English Standard Version)
You Must Be Born Again
1Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2This man came to Jesus by night and said to him,
"Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him."
3Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
4Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?"
5Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
9Nicodemus said to him, "How can these things be?"
10Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
For God So Loved the World
16"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God."
I highlighted verses 20 and 21 because there is an important message for Christians to comprehend in these two verses. As a believer, you are being exposed to the Light. And that exposure can be frustrating because you begin to realize who you really are … and sometimes the picture isn’t so pretty. As I was thinking about this, I was picturing my neighbor and friend, Damon Douglas, who works on cars. The few times I have watched him I notice he attempts to get light into the work area. Why? He knows that light will allow him to see more clearly so he can fix the car. There are a number of occupations that require light to do the work efficiently. And failure to have the light can lead to disaster. I know this from experience.
The encouragement I want to share with you, though, is to understand that God doesn’t expect instant sainthood from you. Growing in Christ is a process … day by day, pressure by pressure, ups and downs, spiritual highs and spiritual lows. So be patient – God is not finished with you yet. He is making a beautiful diamond.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Patience … a commodity many lack and most desire. I once asked God to teach me patience … expecting the immediate miraculous endowment of that which I so severely need. I was surprised when I began to encounter difficulties that drove me to the brink rather than the peaceful acceptance of occurrences. I guess I learned that patience is something God wants to develop in us rather than to endow us with … at least that is true for me.
Back in the early 1970’s I attended a seminar in which each attendee was given a button that read:
PBPGINFWMY. Now I know that some of you are attempting to pronounce this difficult word so I will let you off the hook. This message on this strange button was “please be patient God is not finished with me yet”. And that is a true statement.
You know some folks believe that Christian people are supposed to be perfect. Shoot, some Christians think that they have to be perfect. What a frustrating idea. What we fail to realize is that we are a work in progress – sinners being turned into saints day by day, pressure by pressure, until that day when God calls us home. I was thinking about what Jesus said to the Pharisee named Nicodemus … it is one of the few lengthy one on ones that we see from Jesus … let’s listen in:
John 3:1-21 (English Standard Version)
You Must Be Born Again
1Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2This man came to Jesus by night and said to him,
"Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him."
3Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
4Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?"
5Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
9Nicodemus said to him, "How can these things be?"
10Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
For God So Loved the World
16"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God."
I highlighted verses 20 and 21 because there is an important message for Christians to comprehend in these two verses. As a believer, you are being exposed to the Light. And that exposure can be frustrating because you begin to realize who you really are … and sometimes the picture isn’t so pretty. As I was thinking about this, I was picturing my neighbor and friend, Damon Douglas, who works on cars. The few times I have watched him I notice he attempts to get light into the work area. Why? He knows that light will allow him to see more clearly so he can fix the car. There are a number of occupations that require light to do the work efficiently. And failure to have the light can lead to disaster. I know this from experience.
The encouragement I want to share with you, though, is to understand that God doesn’t expect instant sainthood from you. Growing in Christ is a process … day by day, pressure by pressure, ups and downs, spiritual highs and spiritual lows. So be patient – God is not finished with you yet. He is making a beautiful diamond.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Aunt Emily
Good Morning!
Proverbs 19:20-21 (English Standard Version)
20Listen to advice and accept instruction,
that you may gain wisdom in the future.
21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.
I have been thinking of Aunt Emily today. Aunt Emily wasn’t really my aunt – but we always called her Aunt Emily. She was married to D. Leon Posey – Aunt Mae’s second son. And, of course, we called Uncle Leon “Uncle Leon” even though he was my Mother’s first cousin and not her brother. Mother did have a half-brother, Uncle Charles, but we saw a whole lot more of Uncle Leon than Uncle Charles since Uncle Charles was in the Army. As a matter of fact, he was stationed in Iran in the late 50’s and early 60’s.
Uncle Leon was a partner in Posey and Lynn – a company that built trailer bodies for Dorsey Trailers. Their shop was on University Avenue, right next to the Expressway. I still think of Uncle Leon as I pass by the site daily. Of course now it’s a limousine shop but in my mind’s eye it is still Uncle Leon’s business.
Both Uncle Leon and Uncle Charles were good to Mother. When we moved in with Grandma in 1957, we did not own a car. Uncle Leon “sold” mother his 1951 Buick. It was blue and had “dynaflow” – which is a type of automatic transmission. I remember the car well – what brought it to mind was thinking of 260 air conditioning. The cooler weather has me riding down the road with my windows down – 2 windows, 60 miles an hour – great air conditioning. But I am sure Mother never got Betsy Buick above 45 – so maybe I should say 245 air.
You know, we don’t name cars anymore – at least we don’t in our house. But when I was coming along, every car had its own name and personality – along with a clock that never worked and AM only radio. After a few years, old Betsey developed a hitch in her universal joint and was replaced by Uncle Charles’s 1955 green Oldsmobile 88. I can’t remember her name (yes, cars always were feminine – get over it). She served us well – long past the time I up and married Ms. N and we bought our first car – a 1959 red Rambler Station Wagon. We paid cash - $279.
Uncle Leon was a good soul – as was Aunt Emily. They owned a lake lot with a single wide trailer on Lake Lanier and would treat us to a week with them each summer. Of course, the treat also included doing some work for Aunt Emily – and playing gin rummy each night with Uncle Leon, Aunt Emily and Cousin Katherine Holmes. Work didn’t kill us – and fishing and swimming was fun. Good days long remembered by this old soul.
Uncle Leon gave me something I needed – time. I am sure in our conversations he gave me some advice – some that became so ingrained that it is became a part of me. He was a patient man who loved Aunt Emily deeply and loved his Mom. When Aunt Mae suffered her stroke in 1965, it was Uncle Leon who gingerly lifted his mama from the chair at the table and carried her to the hospital. Little did we know that Aunt Mae would soon be gone – and three short years later, so would Uncle Leon. Aunt Emily lived thirty years past Uncle Leon’s death – she was there when Grandma went home and when brother Bruce’s wife died in the 1980s. As a matter of fact, Bruce leaned heavily on Aunt Emily during this difficult period.
I believe that God leads me to recall people like Uncle Leon, Uncle Charles, and Aunt Emily so I can remember the rich heritage He gave me in my formative years. Good people who cared about two little boys and a little girl and instilled in them special characteristics that flavor our lives.
Miss N Update: We visited with Dr. Sidhu yesterday. She is an oncologist. Norma had a neuro-endocrine tumor removed. Actually, the removed a portion of her small intestine and her large intestine and her appendix. They also took 15 lymph notes to study. The tumor is a canceroid – not a carcinoma. Dr. Sidhu explained that a canceroid mimics a cancer but is not deadly. They found that it had spread to four of the 15 lymph nodes. Dr. Sidhu said that right now we are going to do nothing – but she wants to do a scan in two months to see if there is an spread. So the news is encouraging – praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Of course, with prayer partners like you, I feel very confident that God’s purpose will stand. Have a great day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Proverbs 19:20-21 (English Standard Version)
20Listen to advice and accept instruction,
that you may gain wisdom in the future.
21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.
I have been thinking of Aunt Emily today. Aunt Emily wasn’t really my aunt – but we always called her Aunt Emily. She was married to D. Leon Posey – Aunt Mae’s second son. And, of course, we called Uncle Leon “Uncle Leon” even though he was my Mother’s first cousin and not her brother. Mother did have a half-brother, Uncle Charles, but we saw a whole lot more of Uncle Leon than Uncle Charles since Uncle Charles was in the Army. As a matter of fact, he was stationed in Iran in the late 50’s and early 60’s.
Uncle Leon was a partner in Posey and Lynn – a company that built trailer bodies for Dorsey Trailers. Their shop was on University Avenue, right next to the Expressway. I still think of Uncle Leon as I pass by the site daily. Of course now it’s a limousine shop but in my mind’s eye it is still Uncle Leon’s business.
Both Uncle Leon and Uncle Charles were good to Mother. When we moved in with Grandma in 1957, we did not own a car. Uncle Leon “sold” mother his 1951 Buick. It was blue and had “dynaflow” – which is a type of automatic transmission. I remember the car well – what brought it to mind was thinking of 260 air conditioning. The cooler weather has me riding down the road with my windows down – 2 windows, 60 miles an hour – great air conditioning. But I am sure Mother never got Betsy Buick above 45 – so maybe I should say 245 air.
You know, we don’t name cars anymore – at least we don’t in our house. But when I was coming along, every car had its own name and personality – along with a clock that never worked and AM only radio. After a few years, old Betsey developed a hitch in her universal joint and was replaced by Uncle Charles’s 1955 green Oldsmobile 88. I can’t remember her name (yes, cars always were feminine – get over it). She served us well – long past the time I up and married Ms. N and we bought our first car – a 1959 red Rambler Station Wagon. We paid cash - $279.
Uncle Leon was a good soul – as was Aunt Emily. They owned a lake lot with a single wide trailer on Lake Lanier and would treat us to a week with them each summer. Of course, the treat also included doing some work for Aunt Emily – and playing gin rummy each night with Uncle Leon, Aunt Emily and Cousin Katherine Holmes. Work didn’t kill us – and fishing and swimming was fun. Good days long remembered by this old soul.
Uncle Leon gave me something I needed – time. I am sure in our conversations he gave me some advice – some that became so ingrained that it is became a part of me. He was a patient man who loved Aunt Emily deeply and loved his Mom. When Aunt Mae suffered her stroke in 1965, it was Uncle Leon who gingerly lifted his mama from the chair at the table and carried her to the hospital. Little did we know that Aunt Mae would soon be gone – and three short years later, so would Uncle Leon. Aunt Emily lived thirty years past Uncle Leon’s death – she was there when Grandma went home and when brother Bruce’s wife died in the 1980s. As a matter of fact, Bruce leaned heavily on Aunt Emily during this difficult period.
I believe that God leads me to recall people like Uncle Leon, Uncle Charles, and Aunt Emily so I can remember the rich heritage He gave me in my formative years. Good people who cared about two little boys and a little girl and instilled in them special characteristics that flavor our lives.
Miss N Update: We visited with Dr. Sidhu yesterday. She is an oncologist. Norma had a neuro-endocrine tumor removed. Actually, the removed a portion of her small intestine and her large intestine and her appendix. They also took 15 lymph notes to study. The tumor is a canceroid – not a carcinoma. Dr. Sidhu explained that a canceroid mimics a cancer but is not deadly. They found that it had spread to four of the 15 lymph nodes. Dr. Sidhu said that right now we are going to do nothing – but she wants to do a scan in two months to see if there is an spread. So the news is encouraging – praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Of course, with prayer partners like you, I feel very confident that God’s purpose will stand. Have a great day.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Abounding Love
Good Morning!
1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 (English Standard Version)
11Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Paul had a great desire to return to the church at Thessalonica – but he could not go. He knew the church there was under persecution. He knew they needed encouragement. He earnestly prayed that God would permit him to return – but, as far as we know, he never did. Instead, he sent a letter to them. I believe it was Ellen who commented that had Paul been allowed to return to Thessalonica we would never have had the two letters that contain such good direction for us. Paul did send Timothy – who returned with good news about the church.
What I would like to focus on is verse 12. What does Paul ask God to do for the people in the church at Thessalonica? He asks that they increase AND abound in love for one another and for all. Having been a Baptist most of my adult life, I can share some stories about conflicts within the churches. It seems like there is always a spat going on – some person mad at someone else and so on. What would Paul ask for in our churches today? That we love one another - not only that, but that we abound in love for one another.
Jesus gave us a command that we love one another. Our love for one another is our identifying mark. Our love for one another sets us apart from other folks. One of the neat things that has occurred over the last two weeks is the love that you have shown for Norma and me. It is a WOW situation! My dear friends praying – and their dear friends praying for a sister in faith. Your love ABOUNDS toward us. Such love makes one want to shout.
God is so good to give us you. When I started this post several years ago it was to encourage a dear friend … and now I find myself being encouraged. What a blessing… for another good morning.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 (English Standard Version)
11Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Paul had a great desire to return to the church at Thessalonica – but he could not go. He knew the church there was under persecution. He knew they needed encouragement. He earnestly prayed that God would permit him to return – but, as far as we know, he never did. Instead, he sent a letter to them. I believe it was Ellen who commented that had Paul been allowed to return to Thessalonica we would never have had the two letters that contain such good direction for us. Paul did send Timothy – who returned with good news about the church.
What I would like to focus on is verse 12. What does Paul ask God to do for the people in the church at Thessalonica? He asks that they increase AND abound in love for one another and for all. Having been a Baptist most of my adult life, I can share some stories about conflicts within the churches. It seems like there is always a spat going on – some person mad at someone else and so on. What would Paul ask for in our churches today? That we love one another - not only that, but that we abound in love for one another.
Jesus gave us a command that we love one another. Our love for one another is our identifying mark. Our love for one another sets us apart from other folks. One of the neat things that has occurred over the last two weeks is the love that you have shown for Norma and me. It is a WOW situation! My dear friends praying – and their dear friends praying for a sister in faith. Your love ABOUNDS toward us. Such love makes one want to shout.
God is so good to give us you. When I started this post several years ago it was to encourage a dear friend … and now I find myself being encouraged. What a blessing… for another good morning.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, October 11, 2010
I Don't Know What I Am Eating But...
Good Morning!
I don’t know what I am eating … but it shore tastes good!!!
Daughter Heather visited her Mom and me Saturday, bearing gifts of healthy food. Three bean salad, tabuloue (?), some kind of salad with bread and tomatoes and basil and some type of berries; Nadine’s Chicken salad; Nadine’s Pimento Cheese, a Turkey meatloaf, fresh baked breads and a whoopee pie. I have had a taste of everything and have gone back for seconds more than once – yum.
Miss N came home from the hospital yesterday at 3 p.m. We won’t know the results of the pathology report for a few more days but she has to get in touch with an oncologist tomorrow. So the recovery begins and we are faced with some apprehension. Still, we know that all of these things work together for good for us.
All of us have “post” verses in the Scriptures … you know, those verses you grab ahold of and cling to through the storms of life. Some would say these are crutches. Okay – so they are crutches – all I know is that when I am faced with a problem, these verses help me. Here is one of my crutch verses:
Romans 8:31-39 (English Standard Version)
God’s Everlasting Love
31What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised— who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 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.
Okay, so its not just one verse … but it is a clear statement of the faith we can have in Christ Jesus our Lord. Nothing will separate us from His love – not even death. I know some of my friends are going through a valley today – grab hold to this promise – focus on it – praise God for His promise. It is a great post to hold to … isn’t it?
What are some of your post verses? I sure would like to know. Send an email to fatdad5@comcast.net.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I don’t know what I am eating … but it shore tastes good!!!
Daughter Heather visited her Mom and me Saturday, bearing gifts of healthy food. Three bean salad, tabuloue (?), some kind of salad with bread and tomatoes and basil and some type of berries; Nadine’s Chicken salad; Nadine’s Pimento Cheese, a Turkey meatloaf, fresh baked breads and a whoopee pie. I have had a taste of everything and have gone back for seconds more than once – yum.
Miss N came home from the hospital yesterday at 3 p.m. We won’t know the results of the pathology report for a few more days but she has to get in touch with an oncologist tomorrow. So the recovery begins and we are faced with some apprehension. Still, we know that all of these things work together for good for us.
All of us have “post” verses in the Scriptures … you know, those verses you grab ahold of and cling to through the storms of life. Some would say these are crutches. Okay – so they are crutches – all I know is that when I am faced with a problem, these verses help me. Here is one of my crutch verses:
Romans 8:31-39 (English Standard Version)
God’s Everlasting Love
31What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised— who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 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.
Okay, so its not just one verse … but it is a clear statement of the faith we can have in Christ Jesus our Lord. Nothing will separate us from His love – not even death. I know some of my friends are going through a valley today – grab hold to this promise – focus on it – praise God for His promise. It is a great post to hold to … isn’t it?
What are some of your post verses? I sure would like to know. Send an email to fatdad5@comcast.net.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, October 8, 2010
Prayer Requests
Good Morning!
Day 2 was much better for Miss N. She was able to get up and move around a little – and I saw flashes of her feeling better. We still have a ways to go but she is doing better.
My friend, John, is going through a rough time now. His mother who is 92 or 93, I can’t remember, is in her last days before going home. He and his sisters are aware that time is limited – but still, when it’s Mom, we don’t want to let them go. Keep John, Elaine, and Ann in your prayers.
Another request is for a friend named Jim. He is an older gentleman who was on stage with me when we performed “Fiddler on the Roof” several years ago. Jim has ALS – commonly referred to as “Lou Gehrig Disease”. I spoke with his pastor Tuesday and found that his mind is sharp but his body is going down. Little by little his muscles are loosing their ability to function. Add Jim to your prayers, please.
I have another request that is a little harder to describe. It is for a grandfather who molested his granddaughters. And by no means am I condoning his actions … but his greatest need is to come to terms with his sin and to repent and ask for forgiveness – from his wife, child, and grandchildren and from God. Jesus taught us to pray for our “enemies” … and a person who does this is an enemy to God and therefore to us. Why then pray? Because only God can change a heart and a mind.
We need also lift up the young ladies, their mother, and their grandmother – each impacted by this terrible action. The terrible tentacles of sin reach far and devastate many. One only has to see this pattern to know this.
There is a cure for the sin nature of mankind. The cure is found in our Lord, Jesus Christ. There is a balm for the sins of our life – it is forgiveness given by God when we are faithful to confess our sins. Confession is simply agreeing with God that we have been disobedient. We don’t have to beat ourselves up or perform any ritual – just come to an agreement that we have done wrong. Here’s what the Apostle John said about sin in our lives:
1 John 1:5-10 (English Standard Version)
Walking in the Light
5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
In our relationship with God, there will be times that His light will reveal to us our disobedience to His will. The remedy is found in coming to an agreement with him (confessing our sins) – then He takes over (emphasis is HE TAKES OVER) and forgives us (releases us) and cleanses us (blots the sin out). Our role is limited to coming to an agreement that we are in the wrong – which is not easy to do as our human pride gets in the way.
So, while I know you may have some strong emotions regarding this situation, I ask that you lift each one up in prayer. You don’t need to know their names – just need to know the needs. And God will bless. I know – for He has heard your prayers and has blessed me.
Have a great weekend. I hope to be able to report that Miss N is home come Monday – but we continue to leave all of it in God’s capable hands.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Day 2 was much better for Miss N. She was able to get up and move around a little – and I saw flashes of her feeling better. We still have a ways to go but she is doing better.
My friend, John, is going through a rough time now. His mother who is 92 or 93, I can’t remember, is in her last days before going home. He and his sisters are aware that time is limited – but still, when it’s Mom, we don’t want to let them go. Keep John, Elaine, and Ann in your prayers.
Another request is for a friend named Jim. He is an older gentleman who was on stage with me when we performed “Fiddler on the Roof” several years ago. Jim has ALS – commonly referred to as “Lou Gehrig Disease”. I spoke with his pastor Tuesday and found that his mind is sharp but his body is going down. Little by little his muscles are loosing their ability to function. Add Jim to your prayers, please.
I have another request that is a little harder to describe. It is for a grandfather who molested his granddaughters. And by no means am I condoning his actions … but his greatest need is to come to terms with his sin and to repent and ask for forgiveness – from his wife, child, and grandchildren and from God. Jesus taught us to pray for our “enemies” … and a person who does this is an enemy to God and therefore to us. Why then pray? Because only God can change a heart and a mind.
We need also lift up the young ladies, their mother, and their grandmother – each impacted by this terrible action. The terrible tentacles of sin reach far and devastate many. One only has to see this pattern to know this.
There is a cure for the sin nature of mankind. The cure is found in our Lord, Jesus Christ. There is a balm for the sins of our life – it is forgiveness given by God when we are faithful to confess our sins. Confession is simply agreeing with God that we have been disobedient. We don’t have to beat ourselves up or perform any ritual – just come to an agreement that we have done wrong. Here’s what the Apostle John said about sin in our lives:
1 John 1:5-10 (English Standard Version)
Walking in the Light
5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
In our relationship with God, there will be times that His light will reveal to us our disobedience to His will. The remedy is found in coming to an agreement with him (confessing our sins) – then He takes over (emphasis is HE TAKES OVER) and forgives us (releases us) and cleanses us (blots the sin out). Our role is limited to coming to an agreement that we are in the wrong – which is not easy to do as our human pride gets in the way.
So, while I know you may have some strong emotions regarding this situation, I ask that you lift each one up in prayer. You don’t need to know their names – just need to know the needs. And God will bless. I know – for He has heard your prayers and has blessed me.
Have a great weekend. I hope to be able to report that Miss N is home come Monday – but we continue to leave all of it in God’s capable hands.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Brothers and Sisters - Witnesses
Good Morning!
God is so good!!! And He has surrounded us with so many good Christian brothers and sisters who care about us and love us. I cannot mention everyone – so if I leave you out, please don’t be offended or think that your participation is not noticed or appreciated. Know that I love each of you – the ones I know and the ones who pray for us that don’t even know us.
Tuesday as I was walking into Southern Regional I saw a familiar face. Being the old codger that I am, I sometimes don’t remember names as quickly as I should – so I asked him his name. It was / is Hinton Harris – who preached Norma’s mother’s funeral in May 1998. I asked him if he remembered Virginia Pennington and he immediately said that he did - no hesitation at all. I then mentioned that Virginia’s daughter was in the hospital facing surgery and he said he would pray for her. Well, yesterday, I was sitting at Norma’s bedside when there was a knock on the door and in popped Hinton Harris. He saw that Norma wasn’t up to much of a visit – but he came to pray for the daughter of a friend from way back. What a blessing!
We also had a visit from Frankie Lynn Clardy. Mrs. Clardy taught at Riverdale Elementary for many years – and became good friends with Norma as our kids matriculated through the school and then Norma began working as a lunchroom monitor. Frankie Lynn stopped by to give Miss N some flowers and to have a brief word. Again, a blessing sent especially for us.
I could go on and on about the phone calls and the emails that I have received. But I want to share a special one with you … I won’t use the person’s name because I don’t have permission but it really touched my heart last night:
I'm one of the many readers you probably don't know about of your Good Morning messages. My friend Anna forwards them to me and several other people I work with. I just wanted to let you know that we are all praying for you and Miss N. I praise God for the blessing you bring to us each day with your messages. They really help me keep my perspective during a crazy workday. I especially praise him for the witness you have been through this situation with Miss N. I just wanted to let you know that Gods light is shining through you as you deal with this situation. Please let Miss N. know that although this is not a good time for your family, God is using it, her, and you, for his glory. Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Here’s what the writer of Hebrews says:
Hebrews 12:1-2 (English Standard Version)
Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Now I know the writer is continuing the “Faith Chapter” where he lists all the patriarchs and their display of faith – but do you realize how much of a witness you are to people like me and Miss N when you lift us up in prayer? Do you realize how great a blessing you are for us in this difficult time? Well if you didn’t, you now do. Norma and I cannot adequately express thanks to you – but we ask that you keep it up.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
God is so good!!! And He has surrounded us with so many good Christian brothers and sisters who care about us and love us. I cannot mention everyone – so if I leave you out, please don’t be offended or think that your participation is not noticed or appreciated. Know that I love each of you – the ones I know and the ones who pray for us that don’t even know us.
Tuesday as I was walking into Southern Regional I saw a familiar face. Being the old codger that I am, I sometimes don’t remember names as quickly as I should – so I asked him his name. It was / is Hinton Harris – who preached Norma’s mother’s funeral in May 1998. I asked him if he remembered Virginia Pennington and he immediately said that he did - no hesitation at all. I then mentioned that Virginia’s daughter was in the hospital facing surgery and he said he would pray for her. Well, yesterday, I was sitting at Norma’s bedside when there was a knock on the door and in popped Hinton Harris. He saw that Norma wasn’t up to much of a visit – but he came to pray for the daughter of a friend from way back. What a blessing!
We also had a visit from Frankie Lynn Clardy. Mrs. Clardy taught at Riverdale Elementary for many years – and became good friends with Norma as our kids matriculated through the school and then Norma began working as a lunchroom monitor. Frankie Lynn stopped by to give Miss N some flowers and to have a brief word. Again, a blessing sent especially for us.
I could go on and on about the phone calls and the emails that I have received. But I want to share a special one with you … I won’t use the person’s name because I don’t have permission but it really touched my heart last night:
I'm one of the many readers you probably don't know about of your Good Morning messages. My friend Anna forwards them to me and several other people I work with. I just wanted to let you know that we are all praying for you and Miss N. I praise God for the blessing you bring to us each day with your messages. They really help me keep my perspective during a crazy workday. I especially praise him for the witness you have been through this situation with Miss N. I just wanted to let you know that Gods light is shining through you as you deal with this situation. Please let Miss N. know that although this is not a good time for your family, God is using it, her, and you, for his glory. Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Here’s what the writer of Hebrews says:
Hebrews 12:1-2 (English Standard Version)
Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Now I know the writer is continuing the “Faith Chapter” where he lists all the patriarchs and their display of faith – but do you realize how much of a witness you are to people like me and Miss N when you lift us up in prayer? Do you realize how great a blessing you are for us in this difficult time? Well if you didn’t, you now do. Norma and I cannot adequately express thanks to you – but we ask that you keep it up.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Safe In The Arms of Jesus
Good Morning!
Psalm 121 (English Standard Version)
My Help Comes from the LORD
A Song of Ascents.
1I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
3He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
4Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5The LORD is your keeper;
the LORD is your shade on your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7The LORD will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
8The LORD will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore
Yesterday was a long day … Miss N didn’t get into the operating room until 7:15 p.m. and didn’t get up to her room until after 11 – but she is okay, and the surgery went well.
The biopsy shows that Miss N had (past tense) a neuroendocrine tumor. The doctor says it was not attached and they got all of it. But the tumor does release hormones that can cause further problems so we will be visiting an oncologist for further treatment. We will not know whether on not the tumor was cancerous until the pathology report – so there’s our prayer point for the next week or so.
I do appreciate your prayers for Miss N – and my good friend Euell who stayed with me until we knew Norma was safe. I shared with him – and with my Mother (who always seems to be the most difficult call for me to make emotionally – don’t know why) that Miss N is in the arms of Jesus regardless of the outcome. As the Psalm says, He is our keeper … isn’t that great?
God bless each of you this good day – in Jesus name.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Psalm 121 (English Standard Version)
My Help Comes from the LORD
A Song of Ascents.
1I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
3He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
4Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5The LORD is your keeper;
the LORD is your shade on your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7The LORD will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
8The LORD will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore
Yesterday was a long day … Miss N didn’t get into the operating room until 7:15 p.m. and didn’t get up to her room until after 11 – but she is okay, and the surgery went well.
The biopsy shows that Miss N had (past tense) a neuroendocrine tumor. The doctor says it was not attached and they got all of it. But the tumor does release hormones that can cause further problems so we will be visiting an oncologist for further treatment. We will not know whether on not the tumor was cancerous until the pathology report – so there’s our prayer point for the next week or so.
I do appreciate your prayers for Miss N – and my good friend Euell who stayed with me until we knew Norma was safe. I shared with him – and with my Mother (who always seems to be the most difficult call for me to make emotionally – don’t know why) that Miss N is in the arms of Jesus regardless of the outcome. As the Psalm says, He is our keeper … isn’t that great?
God bless each of you this good day – in Jesus name.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Pink Underwear
Good Morning!
I don’t know where the notion came that men were supposed to do yard work and women were supposed to cook and clean – but that doesn’t happen in our happy home. Miss N has always enjoyed getting out in the cool air to cut the grass, tend the flower gardens and just clean the yard up. I will do it … but it isn’t my cup of tea, so to speak. On the other hand, Miss N doesn’t particularly care for everyday cooking. Oh, she enjoys baking cookies and other goodies at Christmas – but the every day pot roast is just a chore to her. I, though, get a kick out of putting things together to make ordinary stuff taste good. So there is a happy balance there.
The one thing Miss N has held in reserve for herself in the house is the washing machine. Last year we one of those new fangled, low water use models that have all the button and gizmos that you have to have a college degree from Georgia Tech to operate. I mean, you have to hold your mouth just right when you push the button or it doesn’t start. And Miss N is very protective of her washing machine – so much so that I never have been allowed to learn how to operate it (and didn’t really beg to do so). But with her being in the hospital, it comes down to me leaning how or toting the laundry up to the washing place at the end of the street OR me learning how to run the machine. I chose the latter. And guess what!!! I actually have been able to do it – and I don’t have pink underwear! (I washed everything in cold water … a trick I learned from somewhere.)
I make no bones about it – Miss N being in the hospital has been tough on this old bird. I am not used to the quiet. I admit it – there are times that I am lonely. Adam was lonely in the Garden of Eden … at least that is what the book of Genesis tells us. So God made him a helpmate – well, Moses tells the story better:
Genesis 2:5-24 (The Message)
Adam and Eve
5-7 At the time God made Earth and Heaven, before any grasses or shrubs had sprouted from the ground—God hadn't yet sent rain on Earth, nor was there anyone around to work the ground (the whole Earth was watered by underground springs)—God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive—a living soul!
8-9 Then God planted a garden in Eden, in the east. He put the Man he had just made in it. God made all kinds of trees grow from the ground, trees beautiful to look at and good to eat. The Tree-of-Life was in the middle of the garden, also the Tree-of-Knowledge-of-Good-and-Evil.
10-14 A river flows out of Eden to water the garden and from there divides into four rivers. The first is named Pishon; it flows through Havilah where there is gold. The gold of this land is good. The land is also known for a sweet-scented resin and the onyx stone. The second river is named Gihon; it flows through the land of Cush. The third river is named Hiddekel and flows east of Assyria. The fourth river is the Euphrates.
15 God took the Man and set him down in the Garden of Eden to work the ground and keep it in order.
16-17 God commanded the Man, "You can eat from any tree in the garden, except from the Tree-of-Knowledge-of-Good-and-Evil. Don't eat from it. The moment you eat from that tree, you're dead."
18-20 God said, "It's not good for the Man to be alone; I'll make him a helper, a companion." So God formed from the dirt of the ground all the animals of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the Man to see what he would name them. Whatever the Man called each living creature, that was its name. The Man named the cattle, named the birds of the air, named the wild animals; but he didn't find a suitable companion.
21-22 God put the Man into a deep sleep. As he slept he removed one of his ribs and replaced it with flesh. God then used the rib that he had taken from the Man to make Woman and presented her to the Man.
23-25 The Man said,
"Finally! Bone of my bone,
flesh of my flesh!
Name her Woman
for she was made from Man."
Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife. They become one flesh.
The two of them, the Man and his Wife, were naked, but they felt no shame.
God created us to compliment each other. (Hey, that’s a nice way to put it – and we should be doing more of the complimenting and less of the criticizing. Whoops, I jumped on my soap box – sorry.) And I am blessed that the lady He gave me completes me. So I thank Him on this new day when she is facing surgery. She is in His hands right now. Praise God for His goodness and mercy to me.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
I don’t know where the notion came that men were supposed to do yard work and women were supposed to cook and clean – but that doesn’t happen in our happy home. Miss N has always enjoyed getting out in the cool air to cut the grass, tend the flower gardens and just clean the yard up. I will do it … but it isn’t my cup of tea, so to speak. On the other hand, Miss N doesn’t particularly care for everyday cooking. Oh, she enjoys baking cookies and other goodies at Christmas – but the every day pot roast is just a chore to her. I, though, get a kick out of putting things together to make ordinary stuff taste good. So there is a happy balance there.
The one thing Miss N has held in reserve for herself in the house is the washing machine. Last year we one of those new fangled, low water use models that have all the button and gizmos that you have to have a college degree from Georgia Tech to operate. I mean, you have to hold your mouth just right when you push the button or it doesn’t start. And Miss N is very protective of her washing machine – so much so that I never have been allowed to learn how to operate it (and didn’t really beg to do so). But with her being in the hospital, it comes down to me leaning how or toting the laundry up to the washing place at the end of the street OR me learning how to run the machine. I chose the latter. And guess what!!! I actually have been able to do it – and I don’t have pink underwear! (I washed everything in cold water … a trick I learned from somewhere.)
I make no bones about it – Miss N being in the hospital has been tough on this old bird. I am not used to the quiet. I admit it – there are times that I am lonely. Adam was lonely in the Garden of Eden … at least that is what the book of Genesis tells us. So God made him a helpmate – well, Moses tells the story better:
Genesis 2:5-24 (The Message)
Adam and Eve
5-7 At the time God made Earth and Heaven, before any grasses or shrubs had sprouted from the ground—God hadn't yet sent rain on Earth, nor was there anyone around to work the ground (the whole Earth was watered by underground springs)—God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive—a living soul!
8-9 Then God planted a garden in Eden, in the east. He put the Man he had just made in it. God made all kinds of trees grow from the ground, trees beautiful to look at and good to eat. The Tree-of-Life was in the middle of the garden, also the Tree-of-Knowledge-of-Good-and-Evil.
10-14 A river flows out of Eden to water the garden and from there divides into four rivers. The first is named Pishon; it flows through Havilah where there is gold. The gold of this land is good. The land is also known for a sweet-scented resin and the onyx stone. The second river is named Gihon; it flows through the land of Cush. The third river is named Hiddekel and flows east of Assyria. The fourth river is the Euphrates.
15 God took the Man and set him down in the Garden of Eden to work the ground and keep it in order.
16-17 God commanded the Man, "You can eat from any tree in the garden, except from the Tree-of-Knowledge-of-Good-and-Evil. Don't eat from it. The moment you eat from that tree, you're dead."
18-20 God said, "It's not good for the Man to be alone; I'll make him a helper, a companion." So God formed from the dirt of the ground all the animals of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the Man to see what he would name them. Whatever the Man called each living creature, that was its name. The Man named the cattle, named the birds of the air, named the wild animals; but he didn't find a suitable companion.
21-22 God put the Man into a deep sleep. As he slept he removed one of his ribs and replaced it with flesh. God then used the rib that he had taken from the Man to make Woman and presented her to the Man.
23-25 The Man said,
"Finally! Bone of my bone,
flesh of my flesh!
Name her Woman
for she was made from Man."
Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and embraces his wife. They become one flesh.
The two of them, the Man and his Wife, were naked, but they felt no shame.
God created us to compliment each other. (Hey, that’s a nice way to put it – and we should be doing more of the complimenting and less of the criticizing. Whoops, I jumped on my soap box – sorry.) And I am blessed that the lady He gave me completes me. So I thank Him on this new day when she is facing surgery. She is in His hands right now. Praise God for His goodness and mercy to me.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Monday, October 4, 2010
Be Patient
Good Morning!
On page 306 of my Instep Student Bible is this story insert:
Be Patient
According to Hebrew folklore, Abraham was sitting outside his tent one night when he noticed a weary old man approaching. Abraham rushed out to meet him and invited him into his tent. He washed the old man’s feet and offered him something to eat.
Without saying a blessing or a thank you, the old man started eating. So Abraham asked, “Don’t you worship God?”
The old traveler replied, “I worship fire only and reverence no other god.” When Abraham heard this, he became angry, grabbed the old man by the shoulders and threw him out of his tent into the cold night air.
When the old man had walked off into the night, God paid a visit to his friend Abraham and asked hime about the stranger. “I threw him out because he did not worship You.” Abraham replied. God answered, “I have been patient with him for eighty years, even though he dishonors me. Couldn’t you have endured him for one night?” Suddenly Abraham realized how wrong he had been.
You and I are God’s representatives. One thing we know from our own experience is how patient God is / was / continues to be with us in our periods of disobedience. To be certain, people who despise God and make fun of our Savior rub us the wrong way – but our task remains to lift Christ up so He can draw people to Him. We cannot do that when we throw people away because of their current attitudes. And we recognize that these attitudes may never change … but what if we gave them the opportunity? I think it worth the effort.
Norma update: Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday. It is a bowel resection and could possibly be done by laparoscope – which cuts recovery time in half. So I ask that you pray for the surgeons hands and that the easier procedure be accomplished.
Here is one reason why I love Miss N so much: the other night she mentioned that there is a man on the same hall she is on who has been there since May after suffering a stroke. Every once in a while he will call out. Norma took the time to find out that he hasn’t had any visitors since he arrived – and she asked for prayer for this unknown stranger. What a beautiful heart…and she loves me. I thank God every day for bringing her into my life June 1, 1963.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
On page 306 of my Instep Student Bible is this story insert:
Be Patient
According to Hebrew folklore, Abraham was sitting outside his tent one night when he noticed a weary old man approaching. Abraham rushed out to meet him and invited him into his tent. He washed the old man’s feet and offered him something to eat.
Without saying a blessing or a thank you, the old man started eating. So Abraham asked, “Don’t you worship God?”
The old traveler replied, “I worship fire only and reverence no other god.” When Abraham heard this, he became angry, grabbed the old man by the shoulders and threw him out of his tent into the cold night air.
When the old man had walked off into the night, God paid a visit to his friend Abraham and asked hime about the stranger. “I threw him out because he did not worship You.” Abraham replied. God answered, “I have been patient with him for eighty years, even though he dishonors me. Couldn’t you have endured him for one night?” Suddenly Abraham realized how wrong he had been.
You and I are God’s representatives. One thing we know from our own experience is how patient God is / was / continues to be with us in our periods of disobedience. To be certain, people who despise God and make fun of our Savior rub us the wrong way – but our task remains to lift Christ up so He can draw people to Him. We cannot do that when we throw people away because of their current attitudes. And we recognize that these attitudes may never change … but what if we gave them the opportunity? I think it worth the effort.
Norma update: Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday. It is a bowel resection and could possibly be done by laparoscope – which cuts recovery time in half. So I ask that you pray for the surgeons hands and that the easier procedure be accomplished.
Here is one reason why I love Miss N so much: the other night she mentioned that there is a man on the same hall she is on who has been there since May after suffering a stroke. Every once in a while he will call out. Norma took the time to find out that he hasn’t had any visitors since he arrived – and she asked for prayer for this unknown stranger. What a beautiful heart…and she loves me. I thank God every day for bringing her into my life June 1, 1963.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Friday, October 1, 2010
Jesus Supplies Our Need
Good Morning!
Philippians 4:10-13 (English Standard Version)
God’s Provision
10I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Today has been a long day. As many of you know, I usually write the Good Morning message late at night for the next morning – and then fine tune it when I get up. Miss N is in the hospital which means I go to work and then go to the hospital and then come home. So fatigue is setting in … and when that happens, I pull out Philippians 4:13 because it reminds me that it is not my strength but His strength that is going to get me through.
Many of you are facing turbulent times – and I know it is difficult. Remember, though, that you don’t have to rely on your power, your strength, and your wisdom – Jesus is ready to supply every need – if you just let Him. And this new day can be your best day yet.
Thank you for your prayers for Miss N.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
Philippians 4:10-13 (English Standard Version)
God’s Provision
10I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Today has been a long day. As many of you know, I usually write the Good Morning message late at night for the next morning – and then fine tune it when I get up. Miss N is in the hospital which means I go to work and then go to the hospital and then come home. So fatigue is setting in … and when that happens, I pull out Philippians 4:13 because it reminds me that it is not my strength but His strength that is going to get me through.
Many of you are facing turbulent times – and I know it is difficult. Remember, though, that you don’t have to rely on your power, your strength, and your wisdom – Jesus is ready to supply every need – if you just let Him. And this new day can be your best day yet.
Thank you for your prayers for Miss N.
Agape’
Mr. Jim
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