Well, hard to believe it's been a couple of weeks. In reality this could be Jesus Parts 6, 7 and 8 - there has been so much going on lately. Jesus and his family got moved in to their new home - a significant step up for them. I never thought I'd say this - it reflects my continued transformation from conservative Republican to moderate Democrat - but thank God for rent subsidy programs. In a perfect world we could keep these tax dollars and the church could help subsidize poor people's rent - but the church, in my opinion, is too wrapped up in membership consumerism these days - another post for another day.
Jesus has continued his quest in landing a job at Temple Inland. It is amazing how much more difficult this process is than it would seem. He finished up a second interview yesterday with them. A little mind-numbing to me that a hard, hot manual labor sawmill-type job would require two to three interviews - what in the world do you question or discuss after awhile?
I directed Jesus to my good friend and state representative Jim McReynolds' office a few days ago and Jesus had an informative conversation with Susan there. Jim's link is below:
http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/dist12/mcreynolds.htm
Susan called me back and we chatted for several minutes. The general topic of the conversation was -- is Jesus really seeking out employment as desperately as he should be? I don't know - but I know he desperately wants a good job that pays the bills, and I also know he's terribly frustrated by the plight of his poverty right now.
In the midst of my busy schedule over the past two weeks and this rather dismal thought of Jesus' desire for work - I had a big breakthrough yesterday. I was sitting by a couple of friends at a weekly Lions Club luncheon, and Jay, the warehouse operations manager for Brookshire Brothers - a major employer in the area - informed me after I asked that he was definitely looking to hire right now. Wow - amazing how news like that will brighten your outlook!
I ran Jay's contact info. by Jesus last night - and we both got excited about it. I was also thrilled that Jesus had taken my prompting and went and got telephone service. I told him I would front his cost until he became employed - but we really didn't discuss money then. He also had a new, but quite old, truck in his driveway - a semi-gift from his parents in Beaumont. He has no money for gas or insurance now - but that is still a huge plus right now to have transportation available.
The boys, Josh and Jo-el were doing well and Jackie, the daughter, remains in Beaumont with grandparents - which troubles me - but I can't start letting things totally out of my control like that bother me.
I'm feeling much better today about Jesus' outlook today. He has a decent home, food, a phone, potential transportation, and - most importantly - hopefully he gets in touch with Jay - and lands a job at Brookshire Brothers.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Monday, July 03, 2006
Jesus (Hay-zeus) Part 5
Part 5 of Jesus is a mixture of good news/bad news. The good news is Jesus and his three teenage kids moved into a much nicer house that is subsidized by the Deep East Texas Council of Governments, or DETCOG as it is referred to around here, rent subsidy program. Jesus needs help in rent payment - sad but true to him. As he told me - "even at $10/hour, I can't make ends meet for my three kids". I think this house will be a much better place to establish a home in Lufkin for the DeLeon's. A second bit of good news in a bit....
The bad news is Jesus is still not employed. He called me last week from a State office where he was (begrudingly) applying for food stamps. You may recall he had an interview at a local manufacturing shop, and indications were a job would be offered. It was -- somewhat... Jack, the employer, instructed another worker to pick up Jesus last Monday at 6:00 am for work. Jesus was dressed and ready for work. Unfortunately, the other worker couldn't find his house and Jesus was never picked up. Jesus has no phone, no phone book, and he actually forgot the name of the place that Jack owns anyway. As bizarre as this sounds to me, these types of events are apparently fairly common for folks on the fringes. Jesus does not know his way around Lufkin at all because he has no car. He's not real good with remembering some details and he just simply didn't know what else to do other than wait - and no one showed up. So, he simply sat and waited.
The other bit of good news complicates things somewhat. Later that day Jesus got a call from the Employment agency that he had an interview with Temple Inland - a major area employer and Fortune 500 company. This would literally be a dream job for Jesus. Much better pay, benefits, and stability. The downside is this is shift work - meaning he may work a lot of midnight to 8 a.m. type hours. Not terrible - but with three teens at home that is tough.
I picked up Jesus at the State office and took him to pick up his driver's license - which had lapsed during this time and didn't have a correct address anyway. He filled me in on the interview process - and told me he did have a ride there and back. The next day Jesus called me from the employment office. I went and picked him up and drove him to the grocery store. The interview went with Temple well, and he has a second interview - but not for two weeks - ouch. Jesus needs work today. The dilemma now is -- does he work for Jack for a couple of weeks and hope for the Temple job - or wait? His food stamps request went through - great news - but it doesn't kick in for 40 days. They gave him $52 for emergency funds - which bought his groceries, but that's it for a month.
Another bit of bad timing is the Salvation Army is now between ministers. A new Captain is apparently on the way - but it will take him awhile to get up to speed with the DeLeon's dilemma. The Maldonado's were a true God-send for the DeLeon's - but they are moving on to a position in Waxahachie with the SA. They will be missed tremendously.
Jesus needs work, he needs money and he has little time. Things are coming together it appears - but time is not a friend right now.
I dropped by their house Friday for an update and no one was home. It bugged me all day Saturday and Sunday. I'll try again today.
The bad news is Jesus is still not employed. He called me last week from a State office where he was (begrudingly) applying for food stamps. You may recall he had an interview at a local manufacturing shop, and indications were a job would be offered. It was -- somewhat... Jack, the employer, instructed another worker to pick up Jesus last Monday at 6:00 am for work. Jesus was dressed and ready for work. Unfortunately, the other worker couldn't find his house and Jesus was never picked up. Jesus has no phone, no phone book, and he actually forgot the name of the place that Jack owns anyway. As bizarre as this sounds to me, these types of events are apparently fairly common for folks on the fringes. Jesus does not know his way around Lufkin at all because he has no car. He's not real good with remembering some details and he just simply didn't know what else to do other than wait - and no one showed up. So, he simply sat and waited.
The other bit of good news complicates things somewhat. Later that day Jesus got a call from the Employment agency that he had an interview with Temple Inland - a major area employer and Fortune 500 company. This would literally be a dream job for Jesus. Much better pay, benefits, and stability. The downside is this is shift work - meaning he may work a lot of midnight to 8 a.m. type hours. Not terrible - but with three teens at home that is tough.
I picked up Jesus at the State office and took him to pick up his driver's license - which had lapsed during this time and didn't have a correct address anyway. He filled me in on the interview process - and told me he did have a ride there and back. The next day Jesus called me from the employment office. I went and picked him up and drove him to the grocery store. The interview went with Temple well, and he has a second interview - but not for two weeks - ouch. Jesus needs work today. The dilemma now is -- does he work for Jack for a couple of weeks and hope for the Temple job - or wait? His food stamps request went through - great news - but it doesn't kick in for 40 days. They gave him $52 for emergency funds - which bought his groceries, but that's it for a month.
Another bit of bad timing is the Salvation Army is now between ministers. A new Captain is apparently on the way - but it will take him awhile to get up to speed with the DeLeon's dilemma. The Maldonado's were a true God-send for the DeLeon's - but they are moving on to a position in Waxahachie with the SA. They will be missed tremendously.
Jesus needs work, he needs money and he has little time. Things are coming together it appears - but time is not a friend right now.
I dropped by their house Friday for an update and no one was home. It bugged me all day Saturday and Sunday. I'll try again today.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
The Parking Space Mentality
As I write this I'm watching "the Secret" - an online movie that does a good job of detailing a popular subject referred to as the Law of Attraction. I'm a big believer in positive thinking and positive thoughts/actions, and I would recommend the Secret.
Invariably if you're listening, watching or reading on this subject, which I do a lot, some "guru" will mention the "perfect parking space" theory. This theory is....you pull into the mall or supermarket and you begin looking for a good parking space - or, one that requires limited walking on your part. The theory goes that - if you're in the right frame of mind - the perfect space will always open up for you. The guru always, and I mean always, states "it works for me 95% of the time".
In other words - this theory is - you're driving around the mall parking lot waiting for hidden forces to open up the perfect parking space for you because, frankly, you're lazy. And, the older lady right behind you looking for a close parking space because she's 80 and just can't walk very far is out of luck, right?
First, for the good part - this theory doesn't work for the guru 95% of the time. Well, I guess it actually could if the guru spends an hour driving around waiting for that perfect space. But, in reality it doesn't, it can't. BUT, to the guru, it does. It does because the guru believes it does, and, therefore he/she only chooses to remember the times it does. They blot from their memory the times it doesn't work. This is actually a good thing - focus on the good, and blot out the bad from your mind.
Now, here's a better way of thinking - to me any way.
Think "win/win" at all costs. If this activity doesn't benefit others around me - don't do it. If it is good for me and good for my fellow man - then it really is good. Outside of me being in poor health or being with an injury - taking the perfect parking space doesn't benefit others - it is only good for me. Now, obviously if passengers are with me - a pregnant wife, a small child, an elderly parent - this rule does not apply. The win/win now is that this good parking space benefits my passenger that needs it, and that other person would likely give us that space if they knew of my passengers needs.
But, if I'm alone - here is the attitude I take...
I pick the worst parking space and say this -- "I need the exercise. I'm in good shape because God has blessed me, because I'm energetic, and because I make the committment to good health and physical well-being. And, I choose to give up the good parking space to my fellow man that needs it much more than I do."
Try it. I guarantee you that you will go into the mall or supermarket with a good or better attitude than you would if you tried to "manifest" the perfect parking space for you.
Give and it will be given back in abundance. That is a law you can take to the bank.
Invariably if you're listening, watching or reading on this subject, which I do a lot, some "guru" will mention the "perfect parking space" theory. This theory is....you pull into the mall or supermarket and you begin looking for a good parking space - or, one that requires limited walking on your part. The theory goes that - if you're in the right frame of mind - the perfect space will always open up for you. The guru always, and I mean always, states "it works for me 95% of the time".
In other words - this theory is - you're driving around the mall parking lot waiting for hidden forces to open up the perfect parking space for you because, frankly, you're lazy. And, the older lady right behind you looking for a close parking space because she's 80 and just can't walk very far is out of luck, right?
First, for the good part - this theory doesn't work for the guru 95% of the time. Well, I guess it actually could if the guru spends an hour driving around waiting for that perfect space. But, in reality it doesn't, it can't. BUT, to the guru, it does. It does because the guru believes it does, and, therefore he/she only chooses to remember the times it does. They blot from their memory the times it doesn't work. This is actually a good thing - focus on the good, and blot out the bad from your mind.
Now, here's a better way of thinking - to me any way.
Think "win/win" at all costs. If this activity doesn't benefit others around me - don't do it. If it is good for me and good for my fellow man - then it really is good. Outside of me being in poor health or being with an injury - taking the perfect parking space doesn't benefit others - it is only good for me. Now, obviously if passengers are with me - a pregnant wife, a small child, an elderly parent - this rule does not apply. The win/win now is that this good parking space benefits my passenger that needs it, and that other person would likely give us that space if they knew of my passengers needs.
But, if I'm alone - here is the attitude I take...
I pick the worst parking space and say this -- "I need the exercise. I'm in good shape because God has blessed me, because I'm energetic, and because I make the committment to good health and physical well-being. And, I choose to give up the good parking space to my fellow man that needs it much more than I do."
Try it. I guarantee you that you will go into the mall or supermarket with a good or better attitude than you would if you tried to "manifest" the perfect parking space for you.
Give and it will be given back in abundance. That is a law you can take to the bank.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Bren, Bryan and a Million Hits
Last things first...
Receiving a million views or hits on your blog is a bit staggering to me - incomprehensible is more like it. I just looked at my viewer profile counter - 1,033 hits in about 15 months - probably well above average for the Joe Blogger out there. I post comments on several big time blogs - and people bump over and check me out - no biggie. But, I think my total comment count might be in double digits now - just barely.
But...as I type, Mike Cope's blog counter is spinning like a turnstile at a U2 concert - and will pass one million visits today at some point. Staggering. Just for grins -- I did a page "refresh" after stepping away from my computer while on Mike's blog. The count increased like 47 hits in 10 minutes - wow!
I consider Mike the godfather of bloggers for those in my denomination - the churches of Christ. Even though he wasn't the first, he is clearly the biggest. His site is here:
http://www.preachermike.com/
Mike gave a link one day to Bren Hughes blog - Piercing the Membrane. I read Bren's post - and immediately liked his style and felt a connection there. Bren oozes coolness. He's a theology grad student, member of an alternative rock band, and has a limited concern for making a buck tomorrow - all coolness to me. Bren takes a ministry position in Florida in a few weeks after getting a bit of a cold shoulder from the upper-crust seminary PHD programs. No biggie to Bren, he'll take the gig and try back later. I felt honored that me mentioned me by name as a "reader" of his - which I am. Bren's blog is here:
http://www.brenhughes.blogspot.com/
Lastly, my friend Bryan Tarpley is also a younger guy I think like. He actually thinks quite a bit more than I - so maybe I enjoy reading what he thinks about. Bryan and I go to church together behind the pine curtain of deep east Texas. I stumbled across his post on gregkendallball's blog. Greg is a unique, loose-cannon-ish kind of guy that gets lots of chatter going. I linked to Bryan's name - yep, it was my friend Bryan. He's teaching a class at our church now and Bryan and his family will likely end up being missionaries in Latin America soon. Here's his site:
http://www.teamarequipa.net/blog/bryan/
A million hits - hard to comprehend. I''ll bet it's close - I'll go take a peek.
Receiving a million views or hits on your blog is a bit staggering to me - incomprehensible is more like it. I just looked at my viewer profile counter - 1,033 hits in about 15 months - probably well above average for the Joe Blogger out there. I post comments on several big time blogs - and people bump over and check me out - no biggie. But, I think my total comment count might be in double digits now - just barely.
But...as I type, Mike Cope's blog counter is spinning like a turnstile at a U2 concert - and will pass one million visits today at some point. Staggering. Just for grins -- I did a page "refresh" after stepping away from my computer while on Mike's blog. The count increased like 47 hits in 10 minutes - wow!
I consider Mike the godfather of bloggers for those in my denomination - the churches of Christ. Even though he wasn't the first, he is clearly the biggest. His site is here:
http://www.preachermike.com/
Mike gave a link one day to Bren Hughes blog - Piercing the Membrane. I read Bren's post - and immediately liked his style and felt a connection there. Bren oozes coolness. He's a theology grad student, member of an alternative rock band, and has a limited concern for making a buck tomorrow - all coolness to me. Bren takes a ministry position in Florida in a few weeks after getting a bit of a cold shoulder from the upper-crust seminary PHD programs. No biggie to Bren, he'll take the gig and try back later. I felt honored that me mentioned me by name as a "reader" of his - which I am. Bren's blog is here:
http://www.brenhughes.blogspot.com/
Lastly, my friend Bryan Tarpley is also a younger guy I think like. He actually thinks quite a bit more than I - so maybe I enjoy reading what he thinks about. Bryan and I go to church together behind the pine curtain of deep east Texas. I stumbled across his post on gregkendallball's blog. Greg is a unique, loose-cannon-ish kind of guy that gets lots of chatter going. I linked to Bryan's name - yep, it was my friend Bryan. He's teaching a class at our church now and Bryan and his family will likely end up being missionaries in Latin America soon. Here's his site:
http://www.teamarequipa.net/blog/bryan/
A million hits - hard to comprehend. I''ll bet it's close - I'll go take a peek.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Jesus (Hay-zeus) Part 4
I picked up Mike Thursday evening and we drove the short distance to Jesus' home. We met the kids - who are just really warm and friendly. Mike, Jesus and I chatted for about 30 minutes - and ended with a short prayer. After numerous conversations with Jesus, I learned for the first time with Mike that Jesus had been injured somewhat in Hurricane Rita - and was having some lingering vision problems. We left in somewhat of a fog wondering what to do next. I'd like to get Jesus into a opthamologist long-term, but this dilemma really just kind of added to the overwhelming-ness of it all. I still felt employment was job No. 1.
One thing I've learned through the process of helping Jeffrey and Jesus is -- you become unbelievably sensitive ways in which you can help people in despair - and you in a way are a lightning rod of resources to these people. It's really unbelievably impressive - not that you, yourself are doing something - but that God is working through you for their situation.
We got a huge break Wednesday in Jesus' employment situation. I was working on a project with Jack - a man I've known several years. Jack manufactures synthetic marble in a warehouse here. He told me yesterday he was looking for help. Again, the lightning rod of sensitivity bolted me upright.
I immediately started asking several questions and realized quickly Jesus was the man for this job. Jack was more than eager to meet Jesus with his shop foreman. So, this morning I picked up Jesus at 7:00 and drove him over to Jack's shop - a really nice facility. I introduced them and we spoke briefly. Jesus went into a bit of a rambling mode and I kind of helped direct the conversation back to the issue at hand. I knew this was not my purpose here - so I bowed out and left it up to them.
Say a short prayer with me that we get Jesus this job today.
One thing I've learned through the process of helping Jeffrey and Jesus is -- you become unbelievably sensitive ways in which you can help people in despair - and you in a way are a lightning rod of resources to these people. It's really unbelievably impressive - not that you, yourself are doing something - but that God is working through you for their situation.
We got a huge break Wednesday in Jesus' employment situation. I was working on a project with Jack - a man I've known several years. Jack manufactures synthetic marble in a warehouse here. He told me yesterday he was looking for help. Again, the lightning rod of sensitivity bolted me upright.
I immediately started asking several questions and realized quickly Jesus was the man for this job. Jack was more than eager to meet Jesus with his shop foreman. So, this morning I picked up Jesus at 7:00 and drove him over to Jack's shop - a really nice facility. I introduced them and we spoke briefly. Jesus went into a bit of a rambling mode and I kind of helped direct the conversation back to the issue at hand. I knew this was not my purpose here - so I bowed out and left it up to them.
Say a short prayer with me that we get Jesus this job today.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Jeffrey - Part 4
Hard to believe it's been two months since I posted about Jeffrey. The last time Jeffrey came around, which was early May, I told him he really needed to not loiter around our building - I was beginning to sense this was not a good thing. It would eventually catch up with him. This was an early-May Saturday we were last speaking and I told him to come around the following Wednesday. I picked Wednesday solely because it was at least several days out - it had gotten to the point where I had really done all or most of what I could for a person that just couldn't really get moving forward - particularly in the desire category.
Well, Monday morning comes rolling around and Jeffrey comes back. I suppose he decided he would visit me - but I was out doing work in the field - so he just kind of hung around awhile. The office I rent is comprised of 4 suites which all have exterior entrances and a covered area. Jeffrey was hanging out in the covered area when another tenant called the police. The police came by pretty quickly and questioned Jeffrey. He stated he had an appointment with me. One policeman came in my office to confirm this. My assistant reported there was no appointment but that I had been helping Jeffrey some. Not surprisingly, the policeman instructed us not to help anymore - it only encouraged people like this. They gave Jeffrey a citation for loitering and told him if he came back around he would be put in jail.
I later found out Jeffrey had been hanging around the office all day Sunday as well, and I really am still not sure why. The easy answer is Jeffrey was on cruise control and had no interest in work - and there is significant truth in that. Another part I'm sure is that Jeffrey liked me. I didn't judge him and tried sincerely to help - and he liked that. But, what good I was doing Jeffrey was beyond me. In hindsight I guess I'm glad I just tried to be his friend.
Part of me also understood fully that this was a talented, but direction-less man that had been turned away countless times by all sorts of people - and he just sank into a self-pitying lifestyle that was compounded by the racism prevalent in this world. Throw in the fact that he relocated here from Houston five years ago and never developed a local contact base - and you have a perfectly healthy, bright individual essentially living on the street.
Late one evening a few nights later I saw Jeffrey walking down the street with his gear as I was heading home after another long day of work. I kept driving....I really didn't know what else to do - and that saddened me.
I haven't seen Jeffrey in over a month.
Well, Monday morning comes rolling around and Jeffrey comes back. I suppose he decided he would visit me - but I was out doing work in the field - so he just kind of hung around awhile. The office I rent is comprised of 4 suites which all have exterior entrances and a covered area. Jeffrey was hanging out in the covered area when another tenant called the police. The police came by pretty quickly and questioned Jeffrey. He stated he had an appointment with me. One policeman came in my office to confirm this. My assistant reported there was no appointment but that I had been helping Jeffrey some. Not surprisingly, the policeman instructed us not to help anymore - it only encouraged people like this. They gave Jeffrey a citation for loitering and told him if he came back around he would be put in jail.
I later found out Jeffrey had been hanging around the office all day Sunday as well, and I really am still not sure why. The easy answer is Jeffrey was on cruise control and had no interest in work - and there is significant truth in that. Another part I'm sure is that Jeffrey liked me. I didn't judge him and tried sincerely to help - and he liked that. But, what good I was doing Jeffrey was beyond me. In hindsight I guess I'm glad I just tried to be his friend.
Part of me also understood fully that this was a talented, but direction-less man that had been turned away countless times by all sorts of people - and he just sank into a self-pitying lifestyle that was compounded by the racism prevalent in this world. Throw in the fact that he relocated here from Houston five years ago and never developed a local contact base - and you have a perfectly healthy, bright individual essentially living on the street.
Late one evening a few nights later I saw Jeffrey walking down the street with his gear as I was heading home after another long day of work. I kept driving....I really didn't know what else to do - and that saddened me.
I haven't seen Jeffrey in over a month.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Jesus (Hay-zeus) Part 3
Jesus (pronounced Hay-zeus) called me yesterday - out of the blue. We hadn't talked since our encounter at the eye doctor. I was surprised, but welcomed his call. He was having a tough time.
You may recall Jesus is a single dad with three teenagers at home. They moved here from Beaumont after having been displaced by Hurricane Rita. They were living on the edge to begin with - Jesus has moved around some and had just gotten settled in Beaumont when Rita took his only car and his job for several months. They decided to make a go of it here after fleeing the hurricae - and it has been tough. He finally found a part-time maintenance job, but lost it when the company cut back staffing again. It is brutally tough finding a job without transportation.
Jesus is trying to re-establish his family in a better home with subsidized rent - and that's why he called. I picked him up at the Salvation Army and went to look at the home with him he was trying to rent. He was worried because the government home inspector was coming Monday morning and there were several things the home needed. Jesus is very resourceful and he had already done things like get all bedroom windows operational as most had been painted shut over the years. I think my tour with him helped calm his fears somewhat - then we went to grab lunch. After a hearty lunch I took him home and met his three kids again -- Josh, Jackie and Jo-el - all very friendly and attractive teens. My heart aches for these kids - they are just at the absolute bottom right now. They love school - but they have nothing else to speak of. I chatted with Jackie a bit and told her she would love high school next year as she'll start her freshman year in a few weeks. Jesus and I worked up a bit of a game plan and I left to get back to work.
Even though this project stripped out about three hours of my day - I took opportunity to call a couple of employers to get some feedback from them on getting Jesus employed full-time - that is priority number 1. I'm a bit puzzled why this has taken him so long to get a job since he's a very a smart, resourceful man and a hard worker. But, you factor in 1) no transportation; 2) no local contacts; 3) and, parenting three teens full-time - and your day gets shot in a hurry.
Later that evening I took Mike - a good friend and elder in my church - to visit the DeLeon's to get his perspective. More on that later.
You may recall Jesus is a single dad with three teenagers at home. They moved here from Beaumont after having been displaced by Hurricane Rita. They were living on the edge to begin with - Jesus has moved around some and had just gotten settled in Beaumont when Rita took his only car and his job for several months. They decided to make a go of it here after fleeing the hurricae - and it has been tough. He finally found a part-time maintenance job, but lost it when the company cut back staffing again. It is brutally tough finding a job without transportation.
Jesus is trying to re-establish his family in a better home with subsidized rent - and that's why he called. I picked him up at the Salvation Army and went to look at the home with him he was trying to rent. He was worried because the government home inspector was coming Monday morning and there were several things the home needed. Jesus is very resourceful and he had already done things like get all bedroom windows operational as most had been painted shut over the years. I think my tour with him helped calm his fears somewhat - then we went to grab lunch. After a hearty lunch I took him home and met his three kids again -- Josh, Jackie and Jo-el - all very friendly and attractive teens. My heart aches for these kids - they are just at the absolute bottom right now. They love school - but they have nothing else to speak of. I chatted with Jackie a bit and told her she would love high school next year as she'll start her freshman year in a few weeks. Jesus and I worked up a bit of a game plan and I left to get back to work.
Even though this project stripped out about three hours of my day - I took opportunity to call a couple of employers to get some feedback from them on getting Jesus employed full-time - that is priority number 1. I'm a bit puzzled why this has taken him so long to get a job since he's a very a smart, resourceful man and a hard worker. But, you factor in 1) no transportation; 2) no local contacts; 3) and, parenting three teens full-time - and your day gets shot in a hurry.
Later that evening I took Mike - a good friend and elder in my church - to visit the DeLeon's to get his perspective. More on that later.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
The Lord is Near
Philippians 4:6 is one of the more quoted New Testament verses. "Don't be anxious." Yet, these are anxious times to me it would seem. Gas prices are up. "Up" is too kind a word to describe college tuition prices these days.
So, why wouldn't we be very, very anxious - nervous if you will. Don't forget the verse before Philippians 4:6 - verse 5 states very plainly - "the Lord is near". He is here...calming nerves, providing guidance and counseling, ready to hear us. But, we can't forget He's right here - and not way, way out there somewhere.
5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
So, why wouldn't we be very, very anxious - nervous if you will. Don't forget the verse before Philippians 4:6 - verse 5 states very plainly - "the Lord is near". He is here...calming nerves, providing guidance and counseling, ready to hear us. But, we can't forget He's right here - and not way, way out there somewhere.
5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Tribute to Megan
It's hard to believe, I mean really hard to believe...it was just yesterday I was walking you to kindergarden class. Now, you're heading on to college. To graduate salutatorian takes much more than just smarts, genes or test-taking skills. Above all I've come to realize it takes an incredible mental attitude - and I applaud you for keeping that through the ups and downs you've experienced. It also takes a mom that is so in tune with what classes and teachers to take - it truly becomes a collaborative effort. So, say thanks to Mom one more time. This English/Biblical text major has me nervous, but pre-med had me nervous too - I'll learn to deal with it. I will miss you Megan, but I love you and am very, very proud of you for being you.
Here's her story.
http://www.lufkindailynews.com/
Here's her story.
http://www.lufkindailynews.com/
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Jesus (Hay-zeus) Part 2
You may remember Jesus DeLeon from my April 24th post. Well, I'm in the eye doctor's office this morning, and lo' and behold but who walks in and sits right beside me? It's Jesus!
I immediately said "hey, Jesus, how ya' doin'?!" I think I startled him a bit at 7:45 in the morning - but remembered me pretty quickly and we began to chat. Jesus needed glasses and fortunately the Workforce Center was picking up the tab. I asked him how he got here and he said a friend brought him and pointed outside. He did say he had secured a part-time job as a maintenance man at a local apartment complex which was great news, really good to hear and not surprising. He gets there by City bus and the Workforce center provides him a daily bus ticket.
I told him I had dropped by a time or two and ran into his son. He seemed kind of embarrassed by that for some reason so I scaled back my conversation. I was really hoping he'd be around when I came back out but he was gone. I need to go visit Jesus in the evening when I might catch him there. Made my day to hear he's hanging in there and working now.
Bizarre coincidence or God continuing to move in my life?
I immediately said "hey, Jesus, how ya' doin'?!" I think I startled him a bit at 7:45 in the morning - but remembered me pretty quickly and we began to chat. Jesus needed glasses and fortunately the Workforce Center was picking up the tab. I asked him how he got here and he said a friend brought him and pointed outside. He did say he had secured a part-time job as a maintenance man at a local apartment complex which was great news, really good to hear and not surprising. He gets there by City bus and the Workforce center provides him a daily bus ticket.
I told him I had dropped by a time or two and ran into his son. He seemed kind of embarrassed by that for some reason so I scaled back my conversation. I was really hoping he'd be around when I came back out but he was gone. I need to go visit Jesus in the evening when I might catch him there. Made my day to hear he's hanging in there and working now.
Bizarre coincidence or God continuing to move in my life?
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Oswald Chambers
Oswald Chambers, a preacher from the late 20th century, must have been one of the deeper thinkers of his day. His book My Utmost for His Highest has some profound thoughts and ideas in it. I found this daily devotional site, which takes one excerpt per day from his book and presents it, along with tags to other similar subjects of Oswald, if one desires more study. I've been reading it almost daily for about 5 months now - and have enjoyed every reading. Here's the link
http://www.rbc.org/utmost/index.php
http://www.rbc.org/utmost/index.php
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Jeffrey Part 3
Jeffrey and I left the Workforce center, aka the Unemployment office, around 11 am. I talked him into letting me take him to the Salvation Army. I introduced him to the captains - Mario and Lola - told him to eat lunch with them and hang out and I'd be back. About mid-afternoon I picked Jeffrey up and took him to Godtel. He mumbled to me earlier in the day he had tried Godtel and didn't like their "rules". Godtel is our only homeless shelter in Lufkin, which is pretty sobering really. We have a shelter for abused women and a few other little operations, but they are tough to get into - and that means trouble for homeless people.
Yes, Godtel does have fairly strict rules. Mandatory Bible study at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.; required job searching all day long; and, inside and ready for bed by 9 p.m. After 17 years, Martin the Director, knows what does and doesn't work at Godtel, so I certainly respect his rules and understand full well as he does that many simply can't abide by any rules. I talked Jeffrey (and Martin) into giving it another try.
During the day I talked with an African American friend James, a successful local businessman that has lots of social worker skills. Wednesday morning Jeffrey came calling again, so I loaded him up and took him to see James. Jeffrey warmed to this setting in James' office moreso than I had seen before. James began a probing conversation that was really nothing short of amazing - trying to determine what was really going on in Jeffrey's life.
Well, to cull a two hour conversation down into a few words - James finally got a phone number out of Jeffrey and called it. The person on the other end was Jeffrey's father. James found a caring man who preceded to unlock alot of hidden-ness Jeffrey was unwilling to talk about. Jeffrey has a mother and father living here locally who work hard at their business and have exhausted all possibilites trying to discover "what's wrong with Jeffrey". They finally asked him to leave the house, and he's been here, there and everywhere for a few years now. It was sobering knowing he's not only a mystery to me, but also to his own father. One fact we learned that didn't surprise me one bit -- Jeffrey is only a few hours shy of a college degree.
I learned alot through this process I'll write more on later. James and I bonded through it and I've joined a local task force on racism. More thoughts later.... and, another update on Jeffrey.
Yes, Godtel does have fairly strict rules. Mandatory Bible study at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.; required job searching all day long; and, inside and ready for bed by 9 p.m. After 17 years, Martin the Director, knows what does and doesn't work at Godtel, so I certainly respect his rules and understand full well as he does that many simply can't abide by any rules. I talked Jeffrey (and Martin) into giving it another try.
During the day I talked with an African American friend James, a successful local businessman that has lots of social worker skills. Wednesday morning Jeffrey came calling again, so I loaded him up and took him to see James. Jeffrey warmed to this setting in James' office moreso than I had seen before. James began a probing conversation that was really nothing short of amazing - trying to determine what was really going on in Jeffrey's life.
Well, to cull a two hour conversation down into a few words - James finally got a phone number out of Jeffrey and called it. The person on the other end was Jeffrey's father. James found a caring man who preceded to unlock alot of hidden-ness Jeffrey was unwilling to talk about. Jeffrey has a mother and father living here locally who work hard at their business and have exhausted all possibilites trying to discover "what's wrong with Jeffrey". They finally asked him to leave the house, and he's been here, there and everywhere for a few years now. It was sobering knowing he's not only a mystery to me, but also to his own father. One fact we learned that didn't surprise me one bit -- Jeffrey is only a few hours shy of a college degree.
I learned alot through this process I'll write more on later. James and I bonded through it and I've joined a local task force on racism. More thoughts later.... and, another update on Jeffrey.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Media Hound
One of the highlights of living in a city of 40,000, versus, say, living in Dallas (our previous hometown) is the local news. Sorry, but I'll take a lead story where Frank, the local town eccentric, passed away any day of the week over another drive-by shooting incident -- any day.
So, while it's a little less than glamorous, your's truly was caught on film at the first two lead stories from our local news station yesterday. I am a local Donald Trump.
The lead story was taken at Lufkin High, where my oldest was recognized as one of four senior commended scholars. She was highlighted, and I was one of several proud parents looking on. Clip time - at least 10 seconds. The second story was our local Lion's Club, of which I am an esteemed Board member, is hosting our annual rodeo this week. Read with gripping interest here: http://www.lufkindailynews.com/
Well, you could barely see me in a corner shot for like 2 seconds - but, no matter, there I was in both lead stories. Wow, you like me - you really, really like me. Maybe I should run for the local daylilly club presidency.
So, while it's a little less than glamorous, your's truly was caught on film at the first two lead stories from our local news station yesterday. I am a local Donald Trump.
The lead story was taken at Lufkin High, where my oldest was recognized as one of four senior commended scholars. She was highlighted, and I was one of several proud parents looking on. Clip time - at least 10 seconds. The second story was our local Lion's Club, of which I am an esteemed Board member, is hosting our annual rodeo this week. Read with gripping interest here: http://www.lufkindailynews.com/
Well, you could barely see me in a corner shot for like 2 seconds - but, no matter, there I was in both lead stories. Wow, you like me - you really, really like me. Maybe I should run for the local daylilly club presidency.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Jesus (Hay-zeus) DeLeon
As I noted in my last post, Jesus and I struck up a conversation as I was waiting on Jeffrey to fill out some paperwork at the unemployment office. Jesus was a warm man, very open for direct and heart-felt conversation. He had walked about 40 minutes to the unemployment center and had done so numerous times over the past few months. Fortunately, Jesus (a single parent) and his three children had housing. They had been living in Beaumont for a few years - Jesus was working with several of his brothers in a family painting business.
Then came Hurricane Rita. The storm spared Jesus, his family and their home, but not his only vehicle - it was gone and insurance wasn't covering it. The DeLeon's had made it to a Lufkin shelter barely ahead of Rita, and Jesus was skilled enough to secure FEMA-paid housing for his family. But, he hasn't found work. No, he feels he can't go back to Beaumont and his family business. He will start anew. He is a fine painter and drywall repair-person, but everyone with a job requires you get to the job site on your own - and Jesus has no car....
Our conversation was interrupted by a case worker. She informed Jesus he had come on the wrong day - his meeting was not until the next day. "No problem" Jesus stated, "I'll come back tomorrow". I quickly asked him "what now"? He shrugged and suggested he would simply walk home and then walk around this afternoon in a ongoing quest for work.
I went and informed Jeffrey I'd be back. He wasn't thrilled as his life's belongings were in the back of my truck. I told him not to worry - I'd be back - I don't know if he believed me or not. I took Jesus home and told him I'd be back tomorrow at the same time to give him a ride back to the unemployment office. He said he really wasn't looking for a lot of help - just a job. I said I wanted to help my find a job.
I came back the next day and Jesus was gone. I drove all the way to the unemployment office looking for him walking - but no Jesus. A few days later and I've gotten too busy to go visit Jesus. I need to find him and help him - it's really making me uneasy knowing Jesus wants so desperately to provide for his family. I wished I had a car to loan him or give him.
I'm working on it, and God is working on me.
Then came Hurricane Rita. The storm spared Jesus, his family and their home, but not his only vehicle - it was gone and insurance wasn't covering it. The DeLeon's had made it to a Lufkin shelter barely ahead of Rita, and Jesus was skilled enough to secure FEMA-paid housing for his family. But, he hasn't found work. No, he feels he can't go back to Beaumont and his family business. He will start anew. He is a fine painter and drywall repair-person, but everyone with a job requires you get to the job site on your own - and Jesus has no car....
Our conversation was interrupted by a case worker. She informed Jesus he had come on the wrong day - his meeting was not until the next day. "No problem" Jesus stated, "I'll come back tomorrow". I quickly asked him "what now"? He shrugged and suggested he would simply walk home and then walk around this afternoon in a ongoing quest for work.
I went and informed Jeffrey I'd be back. He wasn't thrilled as his life's belongings were in the back of my truck. I told him not to worry - I'd be back - I don't know if he believed me or not. I took Jesus home and told him I'd be back tomorrow at the same time to give him a ride back to the unemployment office. He said he really wasn't looking for a lot of help - just a job. I said I wanted to help my find a job.
I came back the next day and Jesus was gone. I drove all the way to the unemployment office looking for him walking - but no Jesus. A few days later and I've gotten too busy to go visit Jesus. I need to find him and help him - it's really making me uneasy knowing Jesus wants so desperately to provide for his family. I wished I had a car to loan him or give him.
I'm working on it, and God is working on me.
Jesus (Hay-zeus) DeLeon
As I noted in my last post, Jesus and I struck up a conversation as I was waiting on Jeffrey to fill out some paperwork at the unemployment office. Jesus was a warm man, very open for direct and heart-felt conversation. He had walked about 40 minutes to the unemployment center and had done so numerous times over the past few months. Fortunately, Jesus (a single parent) and his three children had housing. They had been living in Beaumont for a few years - Jesus was working with several of his brothers in a family painting business.
Then came Hurricane Rita. The storm spared Jesus, his family and their home, but not his only vehicle - it was gone and insurance wasn't covering it. The DeLeon's had made it to a Lufkin shelter barely ahead of Rita, and Jesus was skilled enough to secure FEMA-paid housing for his family. But, he hasn't found work. No, he feels he can't go back to Beaumont and his family business. He will start anew. He is a fine painter and drywall repair-person, but everyone with a job requires you get to the job site on your own - and Jesus has no car....
Our conversation was interrupted by a case worker. She informed Jesus he had come on the wrong day - his meeting was not until the next day. "No problem" Jesus stated, "I'll come back tomorrow". I quickly asked him "what now"? He shrugged and suggested he would simply walk home and then walk around this afternoon in a ongoing quest for work.
I went and informed Jeffrey I'd be back. He wasn't thrilled as his life's belongings were in the back of my truck. I told him not to worry - I'd be back - I don't know if he believed me or not. I took Jesus home and told him I'd be back tomorrow at the same time to give him a ride back to the unemployment office. He said he really wasn't looking for a lot of help - just a job. I said I wanted to help my find a job.
I came back the next day and Jesus was gone. I drove all the way to the unemployment office looking for him walking - but no Jesus. A few days later and I've gotten too busy to go visit Jesus. I need to find him and help him - it's really making me uneasy knowing Jesus wants so desperately to provide for his family. I wished I had a car to loan him or give him.
I'm working on it, and God is working on me.
Then came Hurricane Rita. The storm spared Jesus, his family and their home, but not his only vehicle - it was gone and insurance wasn't covering it. The DeLeon's had made it to a Lufkin shelter barely ahead of Rita, and Jesus was skilled enough to secure FEMA-paid housing for his family. But, he hasn't found work. No, he feels he can't go back to Beaumont and his family business. He will start anew. He is a fine painter and drywall repair-person, but everyone with a job requires you get to the job site on your own - and Jesus has no car....
Our conversation was interrupted by a case worker. She informed Jesus he had come on the wrong day - his meeting was not until the next day. "No problem" Jesus stated, "I'll come back tomorrow". I quickly asked him "what now"? He shrugged and suggested he would simply walk home and then walk around this afternoon in a ongoing quest for work.
I went and informed Jeffrey I'd be back. He wasn't thrilled as his life's belongings were in the back of my truck. I told him not to worry - I'd be back - I don't know if he believed me or not. I took Jesus home and told him I'd be back tomorrow at the same time to give him a ride back to the unemployment office. He said he really wasn't looking for a lot of help - just a job. I said I wanted to help my find a job.
I came back the next day and Jesus was gone. I drove all the way to the unemployment office looking for him walking - but no Jesus. A few days later and I've gotten too busy to go visit Jesus. I need to find him and help him - it's really making me uneasy knowing Jesus wants so desperately to provide for his family. I wished I had a car to loan him or give him.
I'm working on it, and God is working on me.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Jeffrey Part 2
Monday morning rolled in and there was Jeffrey at a few minutes before 8 knocking on my office door. I met him outside - we chatted uncomfortably for a few minutes....the area was beginning to bustle as Monday mornings do - people looking oddly at me talking to a poorly dressed man with his gear surrounding us. I told Jeffrey to let me make a few calls and come back to see me in two hours.
What to do...who to call....I called my state representative's office - who happens to be a good friend and co-deacon at my church thankfully, but he was in special session. I called the Workforce Center/Unemployment Office; called our local shelter - Godtel; called a local Christian service organization that does great work - Love Inc.; and, made a few other attempts at what to do - the question of the morning. To say this morning rocked my typical Monday morning schedule was an understatement of huge proportions.
A co-worker came in and said there was a homeless man behind our building brushing his teeth. Good Lord, I thought, I need to act now. I went out back, and told Jeffrey to come with me.
As we headed toward the Workforce center I began the first of numerous conversations with Jeffrey. He was very quiet, mumbled most of his responses and generally acted in a peculiar way that obviously played a part in him being on the street, and having spent a good deal of time there over the past 3 to 4 years.
We arrived at the Workforce center and I began helping Jeffrey get into "the system". He seemed somewhat interested in the process. An hour later, he headed back to meet with a counselor and I sat down - absolutely exhausted for a Monday morning at 9:00.
Jesus (Hay-zues) was seated next to me and he immediately struck up a conversation. In a thick, but clear and understandable Spanish accent - "hey, what about those tornadoes, man?" Jesus and I quickly were in a warm conversation. Our conversation would likewise take a turn toward the weird. Wow - so much excitement for a Monday morning - I can't handle it. Stay tuned for Jesus......
What to do...who to call....I called my state representative's office - who happens to be a good friend and co-deacon at my church thankfully, but he was in special session. I called the Workforce Center/Unemployment Office; called our local shelter - Godtel; called a local Christian service organization that does great work - Love Inc.; and, made a few other attempts at what to do - the question of the morning. To say this morning rocked my typical Monday morning schedule was an understatement of huge proportions.
A co-worker came in and said there was a homeless man behind our building brushing his teeth. Good Lord, I thought, I need to act now. I went out back, and told Jeffrey to come with me.
As we headed toward the Workforce center I began the first of numerous conversations with Jeffrey. He was very quiet, mumbled most of his responses and generally acted in a peculiar way that obviously played a part in him being on the street, and having spent a good deal of time there over the past 3 to 4 years.
We arrived at the Workforce center and I began helping Jeffrey get into "the system". He seemed somewhat interested in the process. An hour later, he headed back to meet with a counselor and I sat down - absolutely exhausted for a Monday morning at 9:00.
Jesus (Hay-zues) was seated next to me and he immediately struck up a conversation. In a thick, but clear and understandable Spanish accent - "hey, what about those tornadoes, man?" Jesus and I quickly were in a warm conversation. Our conversation would likewise take a turn toward the weird. Wow - so much excitement for a Monday morning - I can't handle it. Stay tuned for Jesus......
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Jeffrey Part 1
Jeffrey was hanging out behind my office this past Saturday. It was immediately obvious to me Jeffrey was living on the street. I went in to work, locked the door behind me (as I always do on Saturdays) and quickly forgot about it. As I was leaving work around noon I saw Jeffrey again walking down the street with some type of drink in his hand. Good, I thought, he got something cold to drink for this record-setting hot day.
Late Easter Sunday afternoon I came to the office to pick up a couple of things and vacuum the floors. Jeffrey was again behind my office sleeping on the sidewalk - gear in tow - and looking horrid. It was record-setting hot here in Texas on Sunday - it got even hotter through the week - and I was concerned. Understand my office is in an o.k. part of town, but it backs up to a creek and heavy woods. It's not too uncommon to see strangers resting behind my office or to see someone wonder in from the woods area - not often, but it does happen. This part of town was essentially deserted on Easter Sunday, but... I gathered some confidence, said a prayer and went around back to meet Jeffrey. He was only partially coherent, tired and obviously very hot. I offered him a bottle of water - he refused; offered him a few dollars - he refused. I told him to meet me Monday morning and I'd try to help him. He nodded and I left. A few minutes later Jeffrey knocked on my door, which I had since re-locked. I opened it up - he said he would like to meet me Monday morning - maybe I would have work for him - he was looking for work. I said come back and we'd talk. I assumed he wouldn't.
I left the office shaken by the incident. I'm not sure why, but I was. Un-nerved, guilty, insecure about what to do - all those things flowing through my mind. A weird Easter Sunday - it would get weirder.
Late Easter Sunday afternoon I came to the office to pick up a couple of things and vacuum the floors. Jeffrey was again behind my office sleeping on the sidewalk - gear in tow - and looking horrid. It was record-setting hot here in Texas on Sunday - it got even hotter through the week - and I was concerned. Understand my office is in an o.k. part of town, but it backs up to a creek and heavy woods. It's not too uncommon to see strangers resting behind my office or to see someone wonder in from the woods area - not often, but it does happen. This part of town was essentially deserted on Easter Sunday, but... I gathered some confidence, said a prayer and went around back to meet Jeffrey. He was only partially coherent, tired and obviously very hot. I offered him a bottle of water - he refused; offered him a few dollars - he refused. I told him to meet me Monday morning and I'd try to help him. He nodded and I left. A few minutes later Jeffrey knocked on my door, which I had since re-locked. I opened it up - he said he would like to meet me Monday morning - maybe I would have work for him - he was looking for work. I said come back and we'd talk. I assumed he wouldn't.
I left the office shaken by the incident. I'm not sure why, but I was. Un-nerved, guilty, insecure about what to do - all those things flowing through my mind. A weird Easter Sunday - it would get weirder.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Hail & Frogs!??! - Tennessee Tornado Alley
I just left my blogging friend Bren Hughes' blog. Bren and his family live and work in Gallatin, Tennessee, which has been part of the new tornado alley over the past couple of weeks. Scary -but they are all o.k.
Bren has a funny post about hail as large as "ceramic frogs". Check it out.
http://www.brenhughes.blogspot.com/
Bren has a funny post about hail as large as "ceramic frogs". Check it out.
http://www.brenhughes.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Mike Cope, Max Lucado, Rick Atchley, Chris Seidman, Tim Spivey, Donald Miller - All at One Event!
Ok, sorry to disappoint right off the bat, but that's a stretch. Or, it's hype, or it's me seeing if I can actually register some type of double digit blogger count for once in my life. Pathetic? Yes. Lame? Guilty. I'm truly not aware of an event on the immediate horizon where these men might all be speaking.
However, with the exception of Don Miller and Max Lucado, I do listen to each of these preachers on a regular basis in the comfort of my home or office. Never would I have dreamed just a few years ago you could go online and listen to powerful, inspiring lessons regularly - and for free! Each of these speakers have unique, God-given abilities to teach from the Bible and it is truly a blessing to be able to dial them up as often as possible and have some really constructive ideas coming out of my computer speakers.
While I won't give specific instructions for each website, the varous links/sites are very easy to follow to find the respective speaker's sermons online. Most are under Resources or Listen. You'll likely need a few audio players such as Real Player, Windows Media, etc. to play the sermons. Here are the links:
Mike Cope is the senior minister at Highland church of Christ in Abilene, Texas. Highland is fairly new to the podcasting world, but they are coming around and getting pretty reliable in delivery. Mike is certainly one of my fav's, but, when he's not in town, Dr. Jerry Taylor, professor at Abilene Christian, delivers some incredibly powerful lessons.
http://www.highlandchurch.org
Rick Atchley is senior minister at Richland Hills church of Christ in Richland Hills, Texas (Fort Worth area), one of the largest churches in the nation. Rick could be considered the online sermon granddaddy I suppose - his lessons have been online at least two years, maybe longer, and they are now videocast - cool! In addition to Rick - a great speaker - guest speakers on archived files include Max Lucado, Bob Russell (senior minister at the largest Christian church in the US) and Dr. Ken Green.
http://www.rhchurch.org
Chris Seidman is one of the more sought after Lectureship speakers and is senior minister at Farmers Branch church of Christ, one of the fastest growing churches in the southwest.
http://www.thebranch.org
Tim Spivey is the young, senior preacher at Highland Oaks church of Christ in Dallas. I've only heard a couple of Tim's lessons, but both were awesome.
http://www.hocc.org
And, last, for a different twist and direction from these speakers, how about "Pastor Rick" from the Imago Dei church in Portland. Imago Dei is the home church of Donald Miller, one of my favorite authors (Blue like Jazz, Searching for God Knows What). Pastor Rick is a bit different to say the least. Be prepared to "be stoked", and hear from a different, but passionate voice.
http://www.imagodeicommunity.com
Hopefully all of those links work (if not, let me know), and I'll correct the issue. You'll be blessed, and maybe so will your co-workers or family members. And, please, direct some links back my way - I don't think you could have too many.
Not to end on a negative note, but I do wish Max Lucado at Oak Hills church in San Antonio and Rick Warren at Saddleback church in California, had their lessons available online. Here's hoping that changes in the future.
However, with the exception of Don Miller and Max Lucado, I do listen to each of these preachers on a regular basis in the comfort of my home or office. Never would I have dreamed just a few years ago you could go online and listen to powerful, inspiring lessons regularly - and for free! Each of these speakers have unique, God-given abilities to teach from the Bible and it is truly a blessing to be able to dial them up as often as possible and have some really constructive ideas coming out of my computer speakers.
While I won't give specific instructions for each website, the varous links/sites are very easy to follow to find the respective speaker's sermons online. Most are under Resources or Listen. You'll likely need a few audio players such as Real Player, Windows Media, etc. to play the sermons. Here are the links:
Mike Cope is the senior minister at Highland church of Christ in Abilene, Texas. Highland is fairly new to the podcasting world, but they are coming around and getting pretty reliable in delivery. Mike is certainly one of my fav's, but, when he's not in town, Dr. Jerry Taylor, professor at Abilene Christian, delivers some incredibly powerful lessons.
http://www.highlandchurch.org
Rick Atchley is senior minister at Richland Hills church of Christ in Richland Hills, Texas (Fort Worth area), one of the largest churches in the nation. Rick could be considered the online sermon granddaddy I suppose - his lessons have been online at least two years, maybe longer, and they are now videocast - cool! In addition to Rick - a great speaker - guest speakers on archived files include Max Lucado, Bob Russell (senior minister at the largest Christian church in the US) and Dr. Ken Green.
http://www.rhchurch.org
Chris Seidman is one of the more sought after Lectureship speakers and is senior minister at Farmers Branch church of Christ, one of the fastest growing churches in the southwest.
http://www.thebranch.org
Tim Spivey is the young, senior preacher at Highland Oaks church of Christ in Dallas. I've only heard a couple of Tim's lessons, but both were awesome.
http://www.hocc.org
And, last, for a different twist and direction from these speakers, how about "Pastor Rick" from the Imago Dei church in Portland. Imago Dei is the home church of Donald Miller, one of my favorite authors (Blue like Jazz, Searching for God Knows What). Pastor Rick is a bit different to say the least. Be prepared to "be stoked", and hear from a different, but passionate voice.
http://www.imagodeicommunity.com
Hopefully all of those links work (if not, let me know), and I'll correct the issue. You'll be blessed, and maybe so will your co-workers or family members. And, please, direct some links back my way - I don't think you could have too many.
Not to end on a negative note, but I do wish Max Lucado at Oak Hills church in San Antonio and Rick Warren at Saddleback church in California, had their lessons available online. Here's hoping that changes in the future.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
God Knows your Why
Motives are varied. Ask a church-goer on Sunday morning what their motivation was to get up, get dressed (often dressed up) and come to church and the truthful answers would be as varied as the Sunday weather changes in March. God knows - that's all that matters, and it matters greatly to Him.
I Chronicles 28:9,10
9 "And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. 10 Consider now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a temple as a sanctuary. Be strong and do the work."
I Chronicles 28:9,10
9 "And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. 10 Consider now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a temple as a sanctuary. Be strong and do the work."
Friday, March 24, 2006
In the Moment
A couple of weeks ago pro golfer Greg Owen blew it - a total choke job. Greg had a two stroke lead in the Honda Classic and was standing over a 4 foot putt on the next to last hole he needed to make the final hole a formality. Unfortunately Greg's putt missed slightly and slid a foot past the hole. He quickly went around to the other side of the hole to tap in the 1 footer - and he missed that putt too! Youch! He went on to lose the tournament on the next hole - he was obviously beyond shaken up by the complete mental meltdown. He admitted later he would likely be remembered as "the guy who choked".
This week I was reading my Sports Illustrated cover to cover - a weekley ritual I picked up from my father. A golf instructor/writer commented on Greg's meltdown with this statement - "Greg was in the tournament when he blew the putt - but he wasn't in the moment." That statement immediately made me do a double take. Being in the ______ event (fill in the blank - worship, job assignment, etc.) but not in the precise moment of that given activity. Aren't we all guilty of that. Or, worse, thinking beyond the moment - which takes the joy out of that moment. Why don't we live in the moment?
I think true Christian joy is in the moment, not the event.
This week I was reading my Sports Illustrated cover to cover - a weekley ritual I picked up from my father. A golf instructor/writer commented on Greg's meltdown with this statement - "Greg was in the tournament when he blew the putt - but he wasn't in the moment." That statement immediately made me do a double take. Being in the ______ event (fill in the blank - worship, job assignment, etc.) but not in the precise moment of that given activity. Aren't we all guilty of that. Or, worse, thinking beyond the moment - which takes the joy out of that moment. Why don't we live in the moment?
I think true Christian joy is in the moment, not the event.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Longing for Home
Nothing quite feels like home regardless of where home is. Come home from a journey, short or long, and you're eventually glad to be back on comfortable soil. The writer of Psalm 84 talks about longing for the final home, the ultimate home. I need to find that same longing. I need to feel less comfortable here, I need fewer desires here and more longing for there.
Psalm 84
For the director of music. According to gittith. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm. [a]
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty!
2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.
3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young— a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God.
4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Selah
5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.
6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. [b]
7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. Selah
9 Look upon our shield, [c] O God; look with favor on your anointed one.
10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.
Psalm 84
For the director of music. According to gittith. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm. [a]
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty!
2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.
3 Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young— a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God.
4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Selah
5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.
6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. [b]
7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob. Selah
9 Look upon our shield, [c] O God; look with favor on your anointed one.
10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
12 O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
A Salt Ministry?
I was laughing quite wildly when my blogger friend Joe Hays commented on this article about the Liberty (aka Jerry Falwell U) University debate team.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11078887/site/newsweek/
As noted at the end of the article - it seems Mr. Falwell stated he wanted his debate students to have "a salt ministry", but the quote came out in Newsweek as an "assault ministry".
The question of the day is:
Is there a difference in these two ministries styles to a hard-line debate student from Liberty University?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11078887/site/newsweek/
As noted at the end of the article - it seems Mr. Falwell stated he wanted his debate students to have "a salt ministry", but the quote came out in Newsweek as an "assault ministry".
The question of the day is:
Is there a difference in these two ministries styles to a hard-line debate student from Liberty University?
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Lying - which is worse
I'm wondering which sin is worse:
Lying to God or Lying to Oprah?
http://tv.msn.com/tv/article.aspx?news=213584>1=7654
I think Oprah has become a religion in America.
Lying to God or Lying to Oprah?
http://tv.msn.com/tv/article.aspx?news=213584>1=7654
I think Oprah has become a religion in America.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
Being Crafty
I'm not sure where the notion that foxes were crafty came from - but the title fits - Crafty like a Fox.
God condemns craftiness -- Prov. 12:2 -- A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but the Lord condemns a crafty man.
Is there much worse than a crafty person? God tells us to not be that way - don't deceive, mislead, contrive or sneak around for the betterment of yourself at the detriment of others.
Monday, September 26, 2005
Rita Hits East Texas
I'm not sure where this picture was taken, but it resembles my neighborhood in Lufkin, Texas, thanks to Hurricane Rita.
Thanks again for the notes. I'm still concerned for those in the Golden Triangle area of Texas and those in Lake Charles, LA, which is still in flood-type conditions - that area got hit hard.
We finally got power back at home today about noon - a very welcome site as it was approaching 100 degrees in Texas today. I'm still concerned for the elderly here, particularly those in outlying areas without power.
It appears as those we had 5 deaths related to Rita - one due to a falling tree, two to car accidents and two elderly patients that just couldn't handle the move.
It's the little things that bring happiness. I'm looking forward to crunching on a piece of ice this evening for the first time in days.
Thanks again for the notes. I'm still concerned for those in the Golden Triangle area of Texas and those in Lake Charles, LA, which is still in flood-type conditions - that area got hit hard.
We finally got power back at home today about noon - a very welcome site as it was approaching 100 degrees in Texas today. I'm still concerned for the elderly here, particularly those in outlying areas without power.
It appears as those we had 5 deaths related to Rita - one due to a falling tree, two to car accidents and two elderly patients that just couldn't handle the move.
It's the little things that bring happiness. I'm looking forward to crunching on a piece of ice this evening for the first time in days.
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Hurricane Rita Update
Hey all, My first official check-in online. Sunday at 10:15 am - we have power and computers back up and running at my office - and unbelievably cable for internet.
The home is still totally without power. We are all alive and well. Lufkin got hit hard, but not near as hard as Jasper Texas, just 45 miles southeast of us. Lake Charles, LA got the brunt of this storm - so, keep that area in your prayers.We had a minor leak from wind/water, some missing shingles and just mess. My neighbor across the street got a major oak through his house. Everyone's ok, but we spent all afternoon getting that tree off his house -- and he's looking at a $50,000 repair job easily - thank God for insurance.
Lots of downed trees and downed power lines. My Admin's daughter attends college at Lamar in Beaumont - she'll probably be home for a couple of weeks as the Golden Triangle took the bulk of the Texas damage. But, all is ok, nobody hurt, just some sore muscles and lots of clean-up to do. Thankfully, the business will be cranking at full speed tomorrow a.m.
Appreciate all the prayers and positive energy - I felt it yesterday. We effectively got a Cat. 2 hurricane through our city, it was no fun, lots of stress on everyone, but, again, we are all fine.
Any reports you hear regarding shelters shutting people out in Lufkin are totally false. I'll go into that more later, but I can tell you I saw day care centers, gymnastic centers and homeowners bringing total strangers into their places/homes -- which is totally ill-advised by the Red Cross. But, we had probably 3,000 stranded people here as the storm was bearing down.
Keep far southwest LA, and the Golden Triangle of SE Texas in your prayers.
The home is still totally without power. We are all alive and well. Lufkin got hit hard, but not near as hard as Jasper Texas, just 45 miles southeast of us. Lake Charles, LA got the brunt of this storm - so, keep that area in your prayers.We had a minor leak from wind/water, some missing shingles and just mess. My neighbor across the street got a major oak through his house. Everyone's ok, but we spent all afternoon getting that tree off his house -- and he's looking at a $50,000 repair job easily - thank God for insurance.
Lots of downed trees and downed power lines. My Admin's daughter attends college at Lamar in Beaumont - she'll probably be home for a couple of weeks as the Golden Triangle took the bulk of the Texas damage. But, all is ok, nobody hurt, just some sore muscles and lots of clean-up to do. Thankfully, the business will be cranking at full speed tomorrow a.m.
Appreciate all the prayers and positive energy - I felt it yesterday. We effectively got a Cat. 2 hurricane through our city, it was no fun, lots of stress on everyone, but, again, we are all fine.
Any reports you hear regarding shelters shutting people out in Lufkin are totally false. I'll go into that more later, but I can tell you I saw day care centers, gymnastic centers and homeowners bringing total strangers into their places/homes -- which is totally ill-advised by the Red Cross. But, we had probably 3,000 stranded people here as the storm was bearing down.
Keep far southwest LA, and the Golden Triangle of SE Texas in your prayers.
Friday, September 23, 2005
Hurricane Rita
At the ripe young age of 44 I'm about to experience my first major hurricane. Rita is about 10 hours from landfall and appears she'll be crashing in between Galveston and Beaumont/Port Arthur. My prayers are really with the Port Arthur area, they are far less equipped to take this storm. It appears the eyewall will come very, very close to Lufkin and we'll get heavy winds and rain. My only real personal concerns are a couple of big oak trees near my back yard and getting water into my office. The family will hunker down and stay safe.
The uneasy feeling you get in times like this is eery. Our fair city of 35,000 appears to have doubled. There are cars, RV's, trucks everywhere with their hoods up, folks have crept through and just run out of gas. Today, Friday, Sept. 23rd, we are hoping/praying that fuel trucks make it here and get these folks up and northward before nightfall. Of course, this scenario plays out in a dozen other Texas cities as well.
I have a feeling my next post will find me with a newfound respect for hurricanes.
The uneasy feeling you get in times like this is eery. Our fair city of 35,000 appears to have doubled. There are cars, RV's, trucks everywhere with their hoods up, folks have crept through and just run out of gas. Today, Friday, Sept. 23rd, we are hoping/praying that fuel trucks make it here and get these folks up and northward before nightfall. Of course, this scenario plays out in a dozen other Texas cities as well.
I have a feeling my next post will find me with a newfound respect for hurricanes.
Monday, September 19, 2005
Beautiful Song
One of the two or three most powerful contemporary Christian songs I've listened to has got to be Shawn McDonald's Beautiful. What a powerful proclamation of God's sovereignty.
Beautiful
Written by Shawn McDonald
As I look into the stars
Pondering how far away they are
How You hold them in Your hands
And still You know this man
You know my inner most being, oh
Even better than I know, than I know myself
What a beautiful God
What a beautiful God
And what am I, that I might be called Your child
What am I, what am I
That You might know me, my King
What am I, what am I, what am I
As I look off into the distance
Watching the sun roll on by
Beautiful colors all around me, oh
Painted all over the sky
The same hands that created all of this
They created you and I
What a beautiful God
What a beautiful God
And what am I, that I might be called Your child
What am I, what am I
That You might know me, my King
What am I, what am I
That You might die, that I might live
What am I, what am I, what am I, what am I
What am I
What am I
What am I
What am I
What am I
You can listen to a cut from it here:
Friday, September 16, 2005
New Orleans Poverty Map
Lord, there is no one besides You to help the powerless against the mighty..
II Chronicles 14:11.
This map highlights the abject poverty conditions in New Orleans. Seems these people have been somewhat forgotten. Millions pour in, but where does the money go. So many questions remain.
II Chronicles 14:11.
This map highlights the abject poverty conditions in New Orleans. Seems these people have been somewhat forgotten. Millions pour in, but where does the money go. So many questions remain.
Relationship built on Mercy
"When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us, he took it away, nailing it to the cross." Colossians 2:13-14
"...Christ came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst." I Timothy 1:15
We know that Paul had a very personal encounter with Christ. He was moving from one place to the next, devouring Christians like a man possessed by Satan. Then Christ simply ask Paul why he was hurting him. Jesus asked for and received a very personal relationship with Paul from that point forward. For that reason, Paul always knew his heinous past sins had been erased because he believed the message of the Gospel.
So, the question is -- why do we have such trouble receiving the same pardon and mercy from Christ? The question is not -- why do we continue to struggle with sin because Paul continued to struggle with sin - he tells us that in his writings. No, Paul received mercy and then moved to the deep, quenching waters of a mercy-filled relationship with Jesus. And, because of that, Paul moved well passed the pettiness of superficial churchy-type issues.
And, much more importantly, Paul was able to fully embrace and understand the message of Christ - that Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Tear the Roof off the House
I'm not sure where that hip, slang phrase came from, but it should have come from the Gospels. As Jesus was teaching in a crowded home - people were pressing in, cramming in, doing anything to be near this great Rabbi. Some men - probably early engineers - decided the only way to get their crippled friend to Jesus was down through the roof. So, they literally tore the roof off the house to get to him.
His healing hand, comforting words, strong spiritual presence - whatever it takes was the cry of many stories we read about in the Gospels. A great idea conceived by such a great spiritual hunger? It appears so. Surely we can discover a route to the nearness of Christ - but only if we seek him.
His healing hand, comforting words, strong spiritual presence - whatever it takes was the cry of many stories we read about in the Gospels. A great idea conceived by such a great spiritual hunger? It appears so. Surely we can discover a route to the nearness of Christ - but only if we seek him.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
The answer
Reading through I Samuel I'm reminded that God gave the people what they wanted (a king) even though he knew it was the wrong answer for the wrong reasons and would certainly produce painful results.
The Israelites never really believed that God was big enough. 2000+ years later do we believe Jesus is big enough and "the" answer - or is our "king" our denominational doctrine/agenda?
Kind of like the old 8-ball we used to play with. Turn over the ball for a standard answer to whatever question we dreamed up.
"Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple." -Dr. Seuss
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Give us a King
In Samuel Ch. 8, the Israelites ask God's prophet Samuel for a king. Demand is really a more appropriate word - they had to have a king. God responds to this request in vs. 18-24 in a direct, painfully wise, and not too kind response.
God knew the end result - the Israelits yet again wanted something "real" to worship - a king. And God was yet once again apparently not big enough on his own for a full worship experience.
Samuel told the Israelites what the result would be - in short, an over-bearing government and a loss of personal freedom. Hmmmm, could that be repeating itself today? I'm not getting all political here, just wondering if we want so badly for things to be "just right" here in our community at world at large, that we make requests of God that have no eternal bearing.
I Sam. 8:4-22
4 So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. 5 They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead [a] us, such as all the other nations have."
6 But when they said, "Give us a king to lead us," this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. 7 And the LORD told him: "Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king. 8 As they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are doing to you. 9 Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will do."
10 Samuel told all the words of the LORD to the people who were asking him for a king. 11 He said, "This is what the king who will reign over you will do: He will take your sons and make them serve with his chariots and horses, and they will run in front of his chariots. 12 Some he will assign to be commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and others to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and still others to make weapons of war and equipment for his chariots. 13 He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. 14 He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive groves and give them to his attendants. 15 He will take a tenth of your grain and of your vintage and give it to his officials and attendants. 16 Your menservants and maidservants and the best of your cattle [b] and donkeys he will take for his own use. 17 He will take a tenth of your flocks, and you yourselves will become his slaves. 18 When that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the LORD will not answer you in that day."
19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. "We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."
21 When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. 22 The LORD answered, "Listen to them and give them a king."
Monday, September 12, 2005
The Storms of Life
I began this post several days before people had Katrina on their minds constantly. Kind of funny in a way almost, the pictures of the most ferocious looking storms I could find digging around online prior to Katrina were weak at best.
The devastation by Katrina has left me speechless. The acts of kindness shown by the good folks of Texas and so many other places has rekindled my belief in the Christian community.
In a simple group of words - "Peace, be Still" - Jesus calmed a major storm on the sea, eased fears and moved on. His power brings peace - if we let it. His presence brings communion with him - if we find the time for the presence. His love brings healing - if we accept his unconditional mercy and pardon.
Our personal storms are usually self-inflicted - the fruit of some bad decisions or chronic sin. Jesus seems small and far during those times. The storm brings pain and, hopefully, him into so much clearer focus.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Katrina - Lord Bless Them
Proverbs 10:3 - The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
John 16:33 - It is in you, Lord Jesus, that we have peace. In this world we will have tribulation, but we will be of good cheer, because You have overcome the world.
Lord, we pray for this family and the thousands of others grieving right now. I pray for Eleseanne Coco and her mother and grandmother who were transported to Houston. Give them peace.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Travel the Road for Christ
I guess it was back in June when I was teaching the young(er) couples class at my church that I started watching Travel the road (http://www.traveltheroad.com) on my local Trinity Broadcast station. I was pretty geared up on Saturday night, couldn't sleep and found this show as I was surfing. It's kind of a cross between Survivor and, well,..... I really don't know what. These two guys - Tim and Will - cross the Third World globe with a really phenomenal camera guy in tow, and all are absolutely fearless for the Lord. They are truly doing some pretty wild and zany - off the wall stuff -- and I love it!I highly recommend it, although I can't really say I'd be crazy if these guys were my kids. But, I am officially hooked on this show. Tim and Will are an inspiration in servanthood for Jesus, and every step they take is based on faith. Yes, they could have a far better plan, yes the organization is essentially non-existent, but it is so Jesus it grips you.
Anybody watched Travel the Road or heard these guys speak?
Friday, August 26, 2005
Being a Man of God - Mark Richt
I was listening to ESPNRadio a few days ago and clicked on an interview with a head coacha bout midway through. I didn't recognize the voice or the player names he was discussing, but, within just a few minutes I heard this man give 2-3 incredibly warm and authentic witnesses for his Lord. The topic quickly turned to the two eastern European children he and his wife had adopted. While this sounds a bit over-the-top, I might say this was the most sincere witness for God I've ever heard, certainly the most memorable in a long time.
Based on the title and pictures, it's no mystery I'm referring to Mark Richt, head football coach at the University of Georgia. I didn't know his identity, however, until the 3-4 minute interview was almost over. But, I had absolutely no doubt early on where his allegiance lay. Wow, it was powerful for such a short interview I can't quite put a finger on it, but I just felt I had really heard from authentic man of God. I'm now a Mark Richt fan. Here's one of dozens of links for Coach Richt and his witness.
http://poptop.hypermart.net/testcmr.html
Another Special Life in Christ:
Coach Mark Richt: On advice of our nephew, Paul Seybt, Betty and I watched the Georgia-Auburn football game on 16 November 2002. We were on a weekend get-away in Charleston, S. C. and watched the game on TV. UGA made a tremendous come-back to win the game in the last minutes. The sports person hurried up to coach Richt immediately post-game, "Coach, what is your reaction to your team's great come-from-behind victory?" "It's great! But first I'd like to give thanks to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." Wow...I sat up...who is this man? Not knowing anything about Mark, I couldn't wait to get home and do an internet search in hopes of finding his testimony. Here, from Atlanta Christian Weekly .com is a start:
UGA's Mark Richt is a Head Coach with a "Higher Calling"by Kyle Watson
The University of Georgia not only has a fine football coach. They have a man who has his priorities in the right place. Last Thursday, July 19 at First Baptist Church of Snellville men's dinner, Mark Richt shared his testimony before almost 900 men. After speaking with him and listening to his testimony, I learned that he is very sincere, humble, humorous and stern. He spoke of struggles after his first dreams didn't come true. He told us how his quarterbacking days in college were stalled by Jim Kelly, a star quarterback. His days at the Denver Broncos were ended by young John Elway's arrival at football camp. Later he tried his chances with the Miami Dolphins, only to have Dan Marino show up on the team. "This must have been God's way of showing me what a good quarterback looks like," said Richt, who later became a quarterback coach at Florida State University. Before becoming a quarterback coach, he coached a high school team that ended up with a 0-10 season. His struggles had gotten so bad that when he attempted to be an insurance man, he showed up on his first day of work only to see cops arresting and taking away his new boss. Some time later, he gave his life to the Lord Jesus Christ after becoming a graduate assistant coach/quarterback coach. An incident where a FSU football player was murdered during a confrontation caused a meeting by Head Coach Bobby Bowden, where he spoke to the players about Christ. After that meeting, Bowden led Richt to the Lord. Although his parents divorced when he was a teenager, it is amazing how God has made him into such a loving family man. He really loves his wife and children. He works hard to divide his time between them and football. Richt spoke of how time consuming his position as Head Coach is. He praised his wife for being such a supportive spouse. With some of the off-season problems involving players getting in trouble, Richt spoke of how his goal is to be a role model for them. He doesn't just want to coach them on the field, he wants to teach them principles and disciplines. He hopes to teach them life lessons so that they will become better men. He strives to prepare them spiritually by his own example. He really cares for his players and wants them to "be great fathers one day." Coach Richt really loves Jesus. He seeks Christ in decisions by constant prayer and fasting. His motto is love and obey God. This coach spoke from his heart. As he said it best he wants to "serve the people instead of himself."
!!!give meyour commentsabout this true story!!!
Building a Family
Richt married Katharyn in 1987. They have four children. Two came along the usual way -- Jon and David. But two came in a very special way.
"We were in Sunday School class one day talking about the ills of society," said Richt. "We explored questions like `who's in charge of taking care of the poor and the elderly.' We felt like the church should do its share."
Also, Katharyn's brother and sister-in-law had previously adopted children from the Ukraine.
Months later, Katharyn was in the Ukraine, a former republic of the Soviet Union, arranging the adoption of two children, classmates in the same orphanage. She spent 31 days there while Mark spent about eight days. When they returned in July, 1999, they had Zack and Anya, in tow.
"They have been a special blessing to all our family," said Katharyn.
A Plastic Jesus to the World?
"Hey Bob, how goes it?"
"Just fine and you?"
"Fine. Hey, how about that Tiger Woods?"
"Awesome, man. Later."
"Yeah, later".
What does it take to be real and authentic? We know Jesus was real. He touched lepers, fed the hungry, spent time with the poor and oppressed, taught patiently and generally emptied himself completely for humanity.
But, what else? Didn't he speak in often plain, spiritual truth to people in the marketplace? Seekers like Matthew, Zachaeus, the woman at the well and Nichodemus responded. So, too, however, did the religious zealots. They responded with fear and loathing. He was real and he wasn't concerned if certain people didn't like his realness.
Being authentic is attractive, almost magnetic to those with aching hearts. It's uncomfortable to those consumed by the falseness, the plasticness if you will, of this world. They are controlled by plastic in their wallets, and they at times almost want to look plastic - no sags please.
What's on your heart? What has Jesus done for you?
Let someone know.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Jephthah and other Wacky People
Reading through Judges in the Bible can be kind of head-trippy -- there are some seriously dysfunctional people in that book. Realizing Leadership Training for Christ this year ( http://www.ctltc.net ) covers Joshua, Judges and Ruth in the Bible Bowl section, I guess it's a favorable coincidence that in my daily reading I just moved from Joshua to Judges in my Two Year Bible.
For that reason, maybe I'm paying special attention to each character, and, I gotta tell you, there are some oddballs. Most of us are familiar with the travails of Samson, but how about Jephthah in Chapter 11? Jephthah's (calling him Jeph for short) father was Gilead, who is also prominent in Judges, and his mother was a prostitute (11:1) - certainly not Jeph's fault to have that mixture of mom and dad.
Cutting to the chase, Jeph leads the Gideonites into battle and becomes a bit panicky. He swears to God that, if He will deliver them in this battle, Jeph will pledge in sacrifice whatever walks through his door to greet him as he returns home. Well, obviously not real brilliant there on Jeph's part - was he expecting a young bull to walk through his front door? So, who walks out into the front yard to greet Jeph on his return - his one and only daughter. And yes, sadly, Jeph keeps his word and sacrifices his daughter (see pic above).
I sat in absolute amazement as I read that story - how could a father do that? Why would someone make such a senseless pledge. Below is a great commentary from Dennis Bratcher which debates this issue far better than I.
It is amazing the people and stories that God put in his Holy word.
Jephthah's Rash Vow(Judges 11:21-40)
Dennis Bratcher
There are some stories in Scripture that present us with challenging questions, often because they come from a world and a culture far removed from our own, and because we have certain ideas about Scripture that prevent us from hearing the stories in that context. One of those Old Testament stories is the story of Jephthah and a foolish vow he made that cost his young daughter's life (Jud.11:36-40). With our modern sensibilities, we recoil from the story. Why did Jephthah sacrifice his daughter? Since God would never receive a human sacrifice, does that mean that if we say stupid things we should do them even if it is against what we understand about God?
In this case, an unfamiliarity with the nature of Scripture and how the Israelites used narrative to communicate theology causes us problems in hearing this story. There are many things in Scripture that recount past events that are not meant to be presented as positive or as models for our actions today. The book of Judges is an especially good example of that. The entire book of Judges is basically a negative book to show how Israel failed to live up to what they were called to be as God’s people. It is the negative counterpart to the book of Joshua in which the Israelites did respond faithfully to God. In Joshua, they were faithful and gained possession of the land. In Judges they blended the worship of God with the worship Ba’al and began to lose the land as well as fall under the oppression of surrounding people. Recall, the summary statement of the book of Judges (21:25): "all the people did what was right in their own eyes." For most of the stories in Judges, the point of the story is not made with a single verse summary. We are left to conclude the message of the individual story from the whole context of the book, read in light of this concluding theological statement at the end of the book.
Throughout Judges, most of the leaders (called a shophet, a "judge" or tribal military chieftain) that emerge are seriously flawed. They were only able to accomplish anything because God worked in spite of their failures. For example, Gideon, who is often presented as a hero, was most likely a Ba'al worshipper, was certainly a coward, was greedy, and finally led his entire family into the worship of Ba'al with the result that his entire family was killed. Samson, who is often the subject of heroic children’s stories, was a weak womanizer, and too often drunk, who simply could not control his sexual impulses (Ba'al worship was a fertility religion; see Ba’al Worship in the Old Testament). He ended up a pitiful slave whose final act was suicide. The most positively portrayed of the judges was Deborah, with the deliberate irony that the best of leaders during this period was a woman!
We are supposed to recoil from the monstrosity of Jephthah’s actions. The later community of Israel who included this story in the biblical traditions knew how wrong child sacrifice was, so there would be no mistaking this for a model of right behavior. It would be another example of what happens when God’s people become confused in their thinking about who is really God and how God works in the world. This becomes another lesson for Israel that God will not be manipulated by magical incantations or bargains that we strike with him on our own terms. That is precisely what Jephthah tried to do in making his vow to sacrifice the first thing that met him on his return home, if only God would help him win a battle. God did not need that bargain to aid Jephthah. Jephthah was yet another tragic figure in Judges who had not yet learned enough about God to know that God does not respond to magic or bargains, which lay at the heart of Ba’al worship. Jephthah’s battle against the Ammonites was not won because of his vow, but because of God’s presence (11:32). His lack of faith in God, and understanding of who God is, cost him his daughter.
The biblical traditions recall that as a great tragedy (11:39-40): "So there arose an Israelite custom that for four days every year the daughters of Israel would go out to lament the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite." There is nothing positive about the story of Jephthah. Except it is a heartrending model of what not to do.
-Dennis Bratcher, Copyright © 2005, Dennis Bratcher, All Rights ReservedSee Copyright and User Information Notice
Related pages
Judges of Israel
Bible in the Church
Top of page
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Jesus' idea of a banquet-goer
Jesus said invite the poor, oppressed and downtrodden to your banquet. The elite party-set may be too busy.
Luke 14:7-24
7When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he told them this parable: 8"When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, 'Give this man your seat.' Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.' Then you will be honored in the presence of all your fellow guests. 11For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
12Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. 13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
The Parable of the Great Banquet 15When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God."
16Jesus replied: "A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.'
18"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'
19"Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'
20"Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'
21"The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'
22" 'Sir,' the servant said, 'what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.'
23"Then the master told his servant, 'Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. 24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.' "
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
What we want / What He wants
Luke 14:7-24
7When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he told them this parable: 8"When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, 'Give this man your seat.' Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.' Then you will be honored in the presence of all your fellow guests. 11For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
12Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. 13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
The Parable of the Great Banquet 15When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God."
16Jesus replied: "A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.'
18"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, 'I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'
19"Another said, 'I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'
20"Still another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'
21"The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'
22" 'Sir,' the servant said, 'what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.'
23"Then the master told his servant, 'Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. 24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.' "
Don't you just love it when a really sharp person, couple or family migrates to your church? It often feels like an answered prayer, and indeed, in many instances it is a true blessing to receive more workers at just the right time. But, how do you feel when someone less fortunate, or downtrodden stumbles into your church life?
At first, we're polite and friendly, maybe even helpful. But, let's be honest, after awhile we can find we spend most of our church time catering to these, rather than chatting up our real church friends.
It's a delicate balancing act. We all need to be refreshed and enjoy fellowship with our friends and believers. Yet, maybe we look a little too hard for refreshment from our friends rather than from the Lord. Praise God for more workers, and praise God for bringing those to us that need Jesus.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Humble Faith
Luke 7:1-9
"When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him asking him to come and heal his servant. When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." So Jesus went with them.
He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one "Go" and he goes; and that one "Come" and he comes. I say to my servant "Do this" and he does it."
When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.
Faith of the Centurion
Aren't you amazed at the humble spirit of this army leader. His reputation exceeds him, yet he remains humble. He gladly places himself under Jesus authority and leadership. Yet, even so, he has a tremendous belief - a "can do" faith. He likens Jesus to a leader that simply makes the "command" - and it shall be done.
Why does humbleness produce such great faith? Because you place yourself under the order/direction of a higher one - you acknowledge you cannot do it all - yet, you know it can be done.
The centurion placed his value (vs. 1) in people, not in traditions or things. Thus, his FAITH was in people, not in a PROCESS.
God places tremendous value in each of us - thus, we should do likewise with others.
This value equates to a "can do" attitude.
"When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him asking him to come and heal his servant. When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." So Jesus went with them.
He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one "Go" and he goes; and that one "Come" and he comes. I say to my servant "Do this" and he does it."
When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.
Faith of the Centurion
Aren't you amazed at the humble spirit of this army leader. His reputation exceeds him, yet he remains humble. He gladly places himself under Jesus authority and leadership. Yet, even so, he has a tremendous belief - a "can do" faith. He likens Jesus to a leader that simply makes the "command" - and it shall be done.
Why does humbleness produce such great faith? Because you place yourself under the order/direction of a higher one - you acknowledge you cannot do it all - yet, you know it can be done.
The centurion placed his value (vs. 1) in people, not in traditions or things. Thus, his FAITH was in people, not in a PROCESS.
God places tremendous value in each of us - thus, we should do likewise with others.
This value equates to a "can do" attitude.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Those Pesky Chairs
You gotta love the guy that came up with "It's like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic".
My quick Google search says it may have been one Rogers Morton (1919-1979), a U.S. Public Relations Officer (not sure what that officer does), who was quoted in the Washington Post on May 16, 1976 as saying:
"I'm not going to rearrange the furniture on the deck of the Titanic."
In actuality, I think Jesus said it first when he told the religious biggots of his day "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness." (Luke 11:39)
I love that scripture. In all frankness, it's probably because I have a strong measure of cynicism running through my veins. I find much of the pomp and circumstance we perform in church buildings on Sunday morning as not much more than window dressing. Tired exercises that mask a frustrating life of wondering why we continue to sin and act foolishly, yet we perform religious acts on Sunday in our best threads as if our lives are very near perfect.
What Jesus is saying of course to this highly "religious" man is -- you perform outward acts of traditional worship without a thought or concern of what's going on in your heart - and that is dead wrong (literally).
Why can't we be authentic and honest and quit doing pretend worship?
I attended a youth conference a few weeks ago and one of the senior ministers - a fine, sincere man - pleaded with the young folks to be more authentic and sincere than what they observe.
Kinda like - do what I say, not what I do I suppose.
Here's my take - it's fear. The legalistic fear that if we actually obey scripture and confess our sins, others will think less of us. And, we certainly don't want that now do we. For others, pride masks the fear, thus, they scoff at the notion they're fearful of something.
Having said that, I do see strong glimmers of hope all around me. Many missional and growing churches have this figured out. Smaller urban churches are based purely on the love and authenticness of Jesus -- and they are flourishing.
The Titanic (our body) is going down -- let's focus on what matters.
My quick Google search says it may have been one Rogers Morton (1919-1979), a U.S. Public Relations Officer (not sure what that officer does), who was quoted in the Washington Post on May 16, 1976 as saying:
"I'm not going to rearrange the furniture on the deck of the Titanic."
In actuality, I think Jesus said it first when he told the religious biggots of his day "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness." (Luke 11:39)
I love that scripture. In all frankness, it's probably because I have a strong measure of cynicism running through my veins. I find much of the pomp and circumstance we perform in church buildings on Sunday morning as not much more than window dressing. Tired exercises that mask a frustrating life of wondering why we continue to sin and act foolishly, yet we perform religious acts on Sunday in our best threads as if our lives are very near perfect.
What Jesus is saying of course to this highly "religious" man is -- you perform outward acts of traditional worship without a thought or concern of what's going on in your heart - and that is dead wrong (literally).
Why can't we be authentic and honest and quit doing pretend worship?
I attended a youth conference a few weeks ago and one of the senior ministers - a fine, sincere man - pleaded with the young folks to be more authentic and sincere than what they observe.
Kinda like - do what I say, not what I do I suppose.
Here's my take - it's fear. The legalistic fear that if we actually obey scripture and confess our sins, others will think less of us. And, we certainly don't want that now do we. For others, pride masks the fear, thus, they scoff at the notion they're fearful of something.
Having said that, I do see strong glimmers of hope all around me. Many missional and growing churches have this figured out. Smaller urban churches are based purely on the love and authenticness of Jesus -- and they are flourishing.
The Titanic (our body) is going down -- let's focus on what matters.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Friday Questions
How many of the 72 that Jesus sent out in Luke 10 were still around at Pentecost? I'm assuming most, but I bet a few gave it up before then.
Why is the discipline of prayer such a struggle? Maybe it's because we don't really embrace the need to pray regularly.
Why do the disgruntled 1% have a stranglehold of control over many churches?
Do we really have faith? When someone says "but, we've tried that before" do we help that person out with their insufficient faith -- or, do we shrug and agree with them?
Why is the discipline of prayer such a struggle? Maybe it's because we don't really embrace the need to pray regularly.
Why do the disgruntled 1% have a stranglehold of control over many churches?
Do we really have faith? When someone says "but, we've tried that before" do we help that person out with their insufficient faith -- or, do we shrug and agree with them?
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Free will
A few days back I posted about Levi (Matthew) dropping everything to follow Jesus just because Jesus said "follow me". The same is true for Peter, Andrew and the other fishermen. They dropped net and followed.
But in Luke 9:57 and following, one unnamed man says he will follow Jesus no matter what. Jesus questions if he really means it. Then Jesus asks two more men to "follow me". Unlike the disciples, both beg off -- far too busy to follow him just right now.
Jesus gives us total freedom everyday to do our own thing. It's pretty rare to find someone who has never turned that freedom into personal stress, strife, or even a complete meltdown from time to time. He continues to ask us daily to follow him, but maybe we get so busy just like these two men we don't even hear the question.
Freedom is great, but it certainly has it's price.
The Cost of Following Jesus
57As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go."
58Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
59He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
60Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
61Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family."
62Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
But in Luke 9:57 and following, one unnamed man says he will follow Jesus no matter what. Jesus questions if he really means it. Then Jesus asks two more men to "follow me". Unlike the disciples, both beg off -- far too busy to follow him just right now.
Jesus gives us total freedom everyday to do our own thing. It's pretty rare to find someone who has never turned that freedom into personal stress, strife, or even a complete meltdown from time to time. He continues to ask us daily to follow him, but maybe we get so busy just like these two men we don't even hear the question.
Freedom is great, but it certainly has it's price.
The Cost of Following Jesus
57As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go."
58Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
59He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
60Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
61Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good bye to my family."
62Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Monday, August 15, 2005
Jesus in our Thoughts
Luke 7:36-47
Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
The first thing I notice and have emphasized here is that Jesus is answering Simon's thoughts, not his statement! Simon is thinking these things - and Jesus answers him. Simon throws the prophet-thing up in Jesus' face in his thoughts - and, despite this sarcasm - Jesus teaches him with love. How often do we do this? If Jesus really loved me, he would..... If Jesus really knew my needs, he would....
This story highlights the fact that sinners need Jesus. It also highlights the fact that a debt that cannot be repaid is simply that - if it can't be repaid, the size or scope of the debt is irrelevant. It's kind of like me getting upset because I can't run a marathon in 2 and 1/2 hours. I couldn't run a marathon in 3 and 1/2 or most likely even 4 and 1/2 hours either, so what difference does it make?
We all sin and fall woefully short of salvation on our own. It doesn't matter how close to perfection we may be, or (heaven help us) we think we may be - we still don't make it without Jesus.
Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
36Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. 37When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
39When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner."
40Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you." "Tell me, teacher," he said.
41"Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[d] and the other fifty. 42Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
43Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled." "You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
44Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little."
The first thing I notice and have emphasized here is that Jesus is answering Simon's thoughts, not his statement! Simon is thinking these things - and Jesus answers him. Simon throws the prophet-thing up in Jesus' face in his thoughts - and, despite this sarcasm - Jesus teaches him with love. How often do we do this? If Jesus really loved me, he would..... If Jesus really knew my needs, he would....
This story highlights the fact that sinners need Jesus. It also highlights the fact that a debt that cannot be repaid is simply that - if it can't be repaid, the size or scope of the debt is irrelevant. It's kind of like me getting upset because I can't run a marathon in 2 and 1/2 hours. I couldn't run a marathon in 3 and 1/2 or most likely even 4 and 1/2 hours either, so what difference does it make?
We all sin and fall woefully short of salvation on our own. It doesn't matter how close to perfection we may be, or (heaven help us) we think we may be - we still don't make it without Jesus.
Thank you Jesus for erasing my huge debt and having mercy on my soul.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Pleasing People
"We played the flute for you
and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge
and you did not cry."
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread or drinking wine, and you say, "He has a demon." The Son of Man came eating and drinking,and you say, "Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and "sinners" '. But wisdom is proved right by all children."
Luke 7:31-35
I do wonder why we work so hard to please others? I've read some really good comments on this topic lately, but the book and author escape me right now, and the topic frankly leaves me more baffled than anything. But, Jesus is clearly teaching us in this passage that we can't please all the people, or maybe even some of the people, any of the time. We tried to please you once with false cheeriness and that didn't work. So, we tried moaning and groaning next time, and that failed to please you also.
The saddest stories to me are when grown children develop an authentic walk with God that differs slightly (in some cases ever so slightly) from their parents and the parents express displeasure with their children's actions in this movement away from tradition.
Jesus was authentic, truthful, and, above all, loving of others where they were. Jesus never asks us to please him, only to love him, accept him and serve him by treating others in this same way.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Belief & Leadership
I believe in Jesus
I believe he loves us
I believe he came so he could save us
I Believe In Jesus - Michael Olson
After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. "Follow me" Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything an followed him.
Luke 5:27-28
Leadership produces strong belief and faith. Jesus' power was awesome. How else could he persuade Levi (Matthew), someone so steeped in wealth and power, to leave it all behind with two simple words - "Follow me"?
I think we cloud Jesus' ability to lead others to salvation with our constant disecting of his word. I believe in Jesus and his love. Salvation is only through him.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Two Gotchas
John 1:35-50 – Two big-time “Gotchas” in this Scripture.
From Stephen Arterburn - More Jesus Less Religion – “Nathaniel was about to experience a most personal encounter with the Messiah – and it would change forever any notion he might have had about an aloof, impersonal God.”
Gotcha No. 1
Setting – John the Baptist is preaching at Bethany. Jesus of Nazareth is seen by John and John declares “He is the Christ, the Son of God.” Two people hear this declaration and follow Jesus. One of two who heard John and had followed Jesus was Andrew, a fisherman from Bethsaida. Andrew goes to tell his brother, Simon (Peter).
There Jesus first meets Simon for the first time – vs. 42. – Jesus already knew Simon and his family and tells him so! Somewhere between Bethany and Bethsaida, Jesus from Nazareth tells Simon from Bethsaida, having never met him, who Simon is. Wow!
Gotcha No. 2
Jesus then meets and calls Philip, also from Bethsaida. Philip goes to tell his friend Nathaniel about the Messiah. Nathaniel responds – vs. 46. Jesus meets Nathaniel in the same way he met Simon. Nathaniel is defensive “How do you know me” – Jesus responds – I saw you under the fig tree before Philip told you about Me.” Nathaniel also declares He is the Son of God. Jesus tells Nathaniel he will see far greater things.
Really is awesome that Jesus knows us that well - maybe a bit scary too - but don't we always go to the legalistic side of the ledger? :-) Yes indeed.
From Stephen Arterburn - More Jesus Less Religion – “Nathaniel was about to experience a most personal encounter with the Messiah – and it would change forever any notion he might have had about an aloof, impersonal God.”
Gotcha No. 1
Setting – John the Baptist is preaching at Bethany. Jesus of Nazareth is seen by John and John declares “He is the Christ, the Son of God.” Two people hear this declaration and follow Jesus. One of two who heard John and had followed Jesus was Andrew, a fisherman from Bethsaida. Andrew goes to tell his brother, Simon (Peter).
There Jesus first meets Simon for the first time – vs. 42. – Jesus already knew Simon and his family and tells him so! Somewhere between Bethany and Bethsaida, Jesus from Nazareth tells Simon from Bethsaida, having never met him, who Simon is. Wow!
Gotcha No. 2
Jesus then meets and calls Philip, also from Bethsaida. Philip goes to tell his friend Nathaniel about the Messiah. Nathaniel responds – vs. 46. Jesus meets Nathaniel in the same way he met Simon. Nathaniel is defensive “How do you know me” – Jesus responds – I saw you under the fig tree before Philip told you about Me.” Nathaniel also declares He is the Son of God. Jesus tells Nathaniel he will see far greater things.
Really is awesome that Jesus knows us that well - maybe a bit scary too - but don't we always go to the legalistic side of the ledger? :-) Yes indeed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
