Out with the OLD and in with the NEW! Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!  It's a phrase that will echo across the world this evening.  While I do hope each and every one will have a great 2012, I always find myself on New Years' Eve reflecting on the previous year and sometimes years.  As I told my dear "George and Martha" earlier this evening, I am soooo thankful to God for all He has done and brought me through.  As with life in general, we find each year brings its share of joys and sorrows.  With each year we experience a variety of changes.  However, One thing is always constant.  That is God.  He changes not.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  He is awesome - full of power, wisdom, holiness and love.  Wherever we find ourselves, He is there - if we will but acknowledge Him.  He and His blessings are unmeasurable.  2011 has come and gone, and I've found that it was He who carried me through the rough times and He who danced with me during the times of happiness. He is beautiful and I love Him. I don't know what 2012 holds, but as the old song says, "but I know Who holds my hand." It is exciting thinking about a new year with Him. Sure, there will be trials. But I know God is able to turn every trial into a triumph and every test into a testimony. So, as the old saying goes, "To God be the glory, great things He has done... Though the past be glorious, the best is yet to come!"

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Two Atoms

Two atoms were out shopping, buying Christmas gifts for friends and family.  Suddenly one atom looked at the other and exclaimed, "Oh man, I think I dropped an electron!"  His friend replied, "Really?  Are you sure?!"  His response:

"YES!  I'M POSITIVE!"


Ok readers, you know you laughed!  Chuckled?  At least smiled??  I know it's been months since I have blogged.  I guess you could say, "Oh no, she's back!!!"  :)

HOPE YOUR CHRISTMAS WAS VERY MERY AND YOUR NEW YEARS IS HAPPY HAPPY!  

BELIEVE IT... OR NOT!?

As an educator, I have often heard administrators use statements like, "Well, according to research..." to encourage teachers to get on board with various trends in education.  Over the years I have become cynical to the point of wanting to roll my eyes and shut down when someone in leadership uses "research" to make their point.  Why?  Well, if we don't all know, we should know by now that research can be found to support ANYTHING.  So I've grown to "mistrust" in educational circles "research" and want to find out for myself what is actually "truth."  Meanwhile, in my personal life, when I've heard a Christian friend tell me something I often take what they say at face value, even passing on the information as if it is "gospel."  So, while I've rolled my eyes at some, I have recently discovered I am one that from time to time should have people rolling their eyes at me!  What misinformation have I unknowingly passed on, you might say...  Well, what do you really know about two people:  Rob Bell and J.K. Rowling?  I thought I knew some things.  Now, I’m not sure what to believe.

Rob Bell and J.K. Rowling may seem to have nothing in common.  Rob Bell is an author, teacher, and pastor of Mars Hill.  J.K. Rowling is the author of the well known Harry Potter series.  What they have in common...  I owe them both an apology for believing unsubstantiated things that were simply passed on to me by word of mouth and then repeating the false information.  So, Rob Bell, and J.K. Rowling, and anyone else I've believed falsities about - I'm truly sorry!  To those of you I may have shared things about these or anyone else with - thinking I was doing my "Christian service," I apologize.  My intentions have always been to stand up for what is right.  However, I have been misled just like many others.  In particular, let me share a little bit about these two.

Let's begin with Rob Bell.  For years his teachings, his Nooma videos, and writings have ministered to me.  Yet, a few months ago when some people shared that he had written a new book and it looked like he was supporting some universalistic teachings, I jumped on the band wagon.  I shared my disappointment with others and even stopped a study in our Sunday school class using the very videos that had made such a positive impact in my life prior to this "new knowledge."  Recently, I discovered that all of this "hoopla" started when one man read a quote from the back of the book (the man didn't even read Rob Bell's book at all - just the back cover!)  He went on to call Rob Bell a Universalist and from there the rumors flew!  Rob Bell has denied that he is a Universalist.  Yet, he is still being seen as a heretic by many Evangelicals.  Has anyone actually read his new book to find out what he has really said?  To be honest, I haven't!  In fact, many people were debating Rob Bell and his new book, Love Wins before it even was finished!  In all honesty, I can't make a judgment about something I've not even read.  And I should not have.  There is a fascinating article reviewing the book at http://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/books/reviews/25070-love-wins-by-rob-bell.  From this article I gather there is both good and bad, and both truth and misinterpretations from Scripture in Love Wins.  Again, I have not read it - so I cannot pass judgment on Rob Bell, his beliefs, or his teachings.  If we really want to know what he believes and says we should read the book ourselves, yes?  I myself have had one reservation - "what if he is teaching heresy and I get 'sucked in' by reading his book?"  Here is the thing.  Jesus made it clear that He is "the way, the TRUTH, and the life."  He also said, "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you..."  Before we pick up Rob Bell's book, or anyone else's for that matter, maybe we should pick up THE BOOK.  Let's try reading Scripture for ourselves.  As we do, SEEK GOD!  Pray!  Ask God to truly reveal Himself and what He is saying to us!  In James it says, "If any man lacks wisdom let him ask..."  He goes on to say He will give us wisdom if we ask believing.  My point, we should be seeking to know God first and foremost.  We should be praying and studying His Word.  If we are truly in right relationship with Him, seeking to know Him more, we should be able to read a book and ask for God's discernment in seeing the truths of that book and the errors.  He can give us that.  He is God for pity sake!  Again, I'm not supporting all of Rob Bell's teachings because I don't know ALL of his teachings.  At the same time, I am sorry I almost threw out what I know are true, Biblical based ideas Rob Bell expounded on because of the “rumor mill.” 

Now, let's talk about J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter.  When this series first came out Christian friends told me the author was a witch who used real incantations in her stories.  I believed it.  I passed on the information fearing our children were being influenced by Satan working through this woman.  Boy does it look like I was dreadfully wrong.  Does anyone know where all of this "Harry Potter is of the devil" stuff began?  It began in an article in "The Onion."  The article was satirical!  "The Onion" itself is totally satirical in its stories.  Satire...  Not truth!  Not actual interviews and such!  It is sarcasm and fiction at its best (or worse).  However, some people began quoting from this article and sharing the information from it as if it was true.  We believe.  We panic for our children.  We share.  It's like that gossip game we play where we all sit in a circle and someone whispers something into their neighbor's ear, but by the time the message gets back to the original person it is so twisted it is hysterical.  I had some Christian friends tell me they'd heard the negative hoopla was based on rumors.  So I began watching the movies with a friend.  They are to today's generation what Star Wars was to mine - great fantasy stories of good verses evil.  In fact, the more I watched them the more I saw CHRISTIAN parallels in the stories.  I thought maybe it was just because of my background.  Then I went to see the newest Harry Potter movie.  I left thinking, "Ok, it can't just be me!  I'm not just reading my own belief system into the movie.  There were some serious Spiritual parallels."  So, I came home and began doing some "research."  Ha!  I know you can't believe everything you read!  However, I cannot dismiss what I found.  Here's a couple of things that will make you re-think the "Harry Potter is of the devil" belief though:     http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1572107/jk-rowling-talks-about-christian-imagery.jhtml and http://www.snopes.com/humor/iftrue/potter.asp.  There is plenty more out there on the issue - just look at Christianity Today.  It's still a topic of debate.  However, as I said, it would seem the original basis for the criticism begun against Rawling years ago is satire. 

All of this being said, I apologize for sometimes jumping to conclusions and believing the worst about people - even going to the point of sharing what I've heard before truly knowing the truth.  Furthermore, I have been challenged and I hope to challenge others.  We need not just take things that are said or read (especially on the internet) at face value.  We should test things, try things, and more than anything, ask for God and His wisdom to show us what is really true before we "believe it...  or not!"  

Let the Church be THE CHURCH!

After a wonderful evening with my church family, I came home and got online to make a hotel reservation for a little trip I'll be taking in a couple of weeks.  The plan was to attend a Christian artist's (comedian, story-teller, and singer) event in a city in which I used to live and work.  Since the event is scheduled for 7:00 on a Saturday evening, and the city is a good 3 1/2 hour drive from here I decided to rent a room and visit the church I used to attend when I lived in that city.  After making the hotel reservation I "Googled" the church to see if there had been changes in service times, if the pastorial staff was the same, etc.  Keep in mind, as I'm searching I'm excited just thinking about being back in that church.  Well, it no longer exists.  Yes, you heard me...  It's not there.  Instead of a church coming up, posts, blogs and other interesting tid-bits came up discussing how this church had been sued by the very denomination that I hold credentials with as a minister.  It was the very headquarters of this denomination that I worked for at the time I lived in this town.  The reason the church was sued - the pastor declined renewing his license with this particular denomination.  In one particular blog a former staff member there posted his letter to this particular organization in which he informed them he would not be renewing his license with them.  The organization sued the church two days later to seize all of the churches property and assets.  You ask, if the pastor and the majority of this church no longer desired to be affiliated with this denomination, why couldn't they just break free? Well, I'll tell you.  In our by-laws it basically states that a church, its properties and assets belongs to the organization.  In my endeavors to become licensed with this organization, one of the classes I took was a history and bylaws class.  I don't remember reading that...  However, it is there...  I'm not sure how I feel about that...  According to the bylaws it is the local church that is to run itself.  However, if the local church decides to disassociate they have to give their building, property, and everything else they labored for to the organization.  I know as I read many blogs, ministers should be aware of this.  It is stated in the bylaws...  However, do we really remember every bylaw of every organization in which we are a member - even if we read them?  I took a class and I missed that regulation. 

While I'm not sure whether or not a denomination seizing all of the assets and properties associated with a church when that church wants to disassociate with the denomination is right, I do know this:  Scripture is clear about believers taking each other to court.  It shouldn't be done!  So while according to the bylaws of this organization and laws of the land they could take this church to court and win (which the denomination did), I don't think they should have.  This is what I read about the matter in I Corinthians 6:1, 6-11:
"If any of you has a dispute with another, do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people?... But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!  The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?  Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters.  Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.  And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."

The entire issue breaks my heart!  It breaks my heart for everyone involved!  It baffles my mind as well.  Although it shouldn't!  I've seen my share of church politics in this particular organization.  The truth be told, the church I attend now is not affiliated with this denomination.  I'm glad for it!  While I know no church, or denomination is perfect, it hurts my very soul to think of the pain this body must have gone through.  It makes me question whether I want to continue holding a ministerial license with this organization.  Sorry there are no jokes or fun stuff in this blog.  My heart is just too heavy.  It is time for me to go lay this all before the Lord.  My mother and I discussed last week how the "entire world seems to be going crazy."  It's a sad day when we see that in the church as well.   

"Crossing 'Lions'"

Lately I am reminded of the story of Daniel.  Daniel 6 holds the famous account of “Daniel in the Lions’ Den” that we’ve all heard since Sunday school.  There are some interesting parallels in this passage that have encouraged me at times and I hope they will encourage you too.  You see, in the time of Daniel, the other leaders tried to find something against him…  They couldn’t find anything except that he was a man of prayer.  So they got King Darius to pass a law against prayer.  What did Daniel do?  HE PRAYED ANYWAYS!!!!!!!!!!  It got him thrown into a lion’s pit.  However, as we know, God is bigger than any lion!  He closed the mouths of the lions.  And Darius was grieved and upset because he had passed the law!  But when he went to get Daniel the next day – sure enough, God had delivered Daniel from the lions!  Darius pulled him out and threw the ones who made the stupid law in the lion’s pit. 

I say all that to say, while I agree we are to obey the laws of the land as Paul says in the Romans 13, I also know there are exceptions to that!  The exceptions include when the law causes us to sin, or keeps us from worshipping or praying to God!  I mean, we could say Daniel “crossed the lines.”  He could have kept his window shut and prayed silently to the Lord so that he was keeping in line with the laws and still praying.  He did what he felt he was supposed to do. He may have done what the law says he was not supposed to…  But in reality he really didn’t do anything wrong.  It seems that just as in the time of Daniel, some of our laws have been made erroneously and are gross misinterpretations of what our founding fathers intended when they established the Constitution. 

Historically, our founding fathers came to this land and established the Constitution to escape religious persecution FROM THE GOVERNMENT.  Separation of church and state was never intended to keep the church out of the government.  It was established to keep the government out of the church!  Our forefathers did not establish this “NATION UNDER GOD” as a “NATION UNDER WHOEVER YOU THINK IS GOD…”  They never intended religious freedom to mean people who worshipped Satan or pagan gods to do so openly in our country!!  Their intentions were that we would all worship THE ONE AND ONLY TRUE GOD…  AND BE FREE TO WORSHIP HIM AS WE EACH SEE FIT!  If they saw the gross misinterpretations we currently have of the original intents of the law they established and the laws that have come from that misinterpretation, they’d have a fit!  

Now, don’t misunderstand what I’m getting at here.  Again, I know that as Christians we should “obey the laws of the land.”  I know God puts leaders in place and we have a responsibility to pray for them and follow them as long as they are not leading us to sin or away from God.  Still, I find it interesting that Daniel did not say, “Ok, well, I’ll go pray silently with my window closed so I am both praying and keeping the law.”  Also, I find it interesting that his peers, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego weren’t looking up all the laws and getting in Daniel’s grill about how he needed to obey the law, how he could do that and still pray, etc.  The opposite is true too.  It’s not recorded anywhere that Daniel called all of his peers together and told them to keep their windows open and pray louder.  In fact, it may be that some of his peers simply prayed silently behind closed doors and windows.  THEREIN IS MY POINT – RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IS LETTING PEOPLE WORSHIP GOD HOW THEY ARE COMFORTABLE!  If the “Daniels” of the world want to open their windows and pray aloud even though there may be some silly law against that, LET THEM!  And if others want to close the windows and pray silently – LET THEM!  God knows what we are going to say before we even say (or think – Psalms 139) it!  He knows the cries of our heart!  He hears our prayers!  And He answers – be they silent or loud! 

Now, the “Daniels” need to know they may end up thrown in a lion’s den.  Just as God delivered Daniel, He can and often delivers us as well!  Furthermore, just like He took care of the ones who started the mess by passing this ludicrous law, He can and will take care of evil doers today.  Finally, just as He made Himself known through this entire situation to Darius and others, He can make Himself known through our life’s messes. 

All that to say – KEEP THE FAITH!  (The title of a sermon I’ll be preaching in a couple of weeks at church if anyone wants to come…) Remember whose side we are on!  Whether praying in the closet or out the window, we are on God’s side and He is on ours!  JUST KEEP PRAYING!  KEEP LOVING AND GROWING IN HIM! 

Movie Madness

Shortly after entering the theater with "George and Martha" tonight to see a movie, I realized why I enjoy afternoon shows more than evening shows.  First, the cost!  The cost of an evening movie has just gotten ridiculous!  The second reason - the audience!  Since when did the 7:00 movies become the baby sitters of our pre-teens and young teens?!  It was ridiculous!  I love kids!  I teach 6th grade for pity sake!  However, from the time we entered the theater the 12, 13 and 14 year olds were being loud and obnoxious, running the aisles, going in and out of the theater, jumping from seat to seat as well as from the back to the front and from theater to theater.  Did I mention they were loud?  Where were the parents?  I thought they were supposed to be with a parent to see a PG-13 movie...  At any rate, the movie started and while I was praying they'd calm down when the movie started, they didn't.  So, I got up to get the manager.  As I got to the end of the steps I heard a voice over everyone firmly telling the young people in the front and in the back of the theater to shut-up and sit down and watch the show.  Wow!  It was about time!  What guts!  What boldness!  Who in the world?!  Wait a second, I suddenly realized - IT WAS ME!  Ok people - as a teacher you know you're at your limit when you find yourself at a movie theater correcting the youngsters all around you!  What in the world?  I don't even normally tell my students to shut up!  I think it's inappropriate!  But there I was - giving these rowdy youth "what for."  At any rate, I went ahead and got the manager, but for some reason, when I returned the climate was a little different...  We were able to enjoy the show.  While I'm not sure if "George and Martha" will ever want to go to another movie with me, I know those kids won't! 

 

Carry me, Daddy!

“Listen, you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth.  Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.  I have made you and I will carry you.”  Isaiah 46:3-4

Recently, my dear friend “Martha” announced the wonderful news that she is expecting.  Her ornery but fabulous husband, “George,” sent me a text this morning.  After congratulating him and rushing off to work, I got to looking at the Scriptures on my desk.  Someone at church gave me one of those sets that has a Scripture or passage on a card for each day of the year.  At any rate, I’d sent my students to their art class and was flipping through the cards.  I know, you are supposed to read one a day.  Sometimes that’s like trying to eat only one Pringle.  Anyways – the second one I read was Isaiah 46:3-4.  I didn’t get any farther in the stack.  There are so many things in this small passage that astound me!  First, God Himself is speaking to us.  God – the creator of the universe – all mighty, ever present, all powerful, God, speaks to us.  Even more amazing, that He would speak to me.  As the Psalmist said, “Who am I that He would consider me?”  Me and all my faults, quirks, questions, etc. etc.  Us…  All of us!  He wants to speak to me, to you, to us all!  No matter where we are, where we’ve been, what we’ve done.  He loves us and longs to have a relationship with each of us.  He goes on to tell us He has upheld us since we were conceived, carried us since birth.  Again, WOW!  Again, I think of a Psalms – 139 that speaks of us being “fearfully and wonderfully made.” 

Last night I was captivated as I watched an interview with Nick Vujicic.  This man was born without arms or legs.  He does have one foot with two little toes on it.  After the interview he spoke to a group of 7^th and 8^th grade students.  He has written a couple of books and has shared his life’s story with thousands.  He kept referring to the fact that God had made him with a plan and that God makes each of us with a plan.  I was amazed at this man’s faith, the peace of God that flowed from him, and Nick’s positive outlook on life.  Sure, he has struggled mentally, emotionally and spiritually at times in his life.  However, he really seemed to have a better understanding of the fact that God has a plan for himself and each of us than most.  Just this week, from sheer exhaustion, I found myself telling the Lord, “Remember your promise – ‘as your days, so will your strength be?’”  Nick Vujicic seems to live in the fact that God has carried us since birth…  AND HE WILL CONTINUE TO SUSTAIN US.

That’s the other part of this passage of Scripture that is so mind blowing!  He wants to continue to sustain us and even carry us through this life.  So, I think back to dear “George and Martha” and the new life growing inside of her.  God is knitting that precious life together.  He already has a plan for that dear child!  He will uphold and carry them throughout life…  If they let Him.  I pray he or she does!  I pray little “Martha” or “George” (help us all if that’s the case!  HA!  JK, George!) will allow God to carry him or her throughout their life!  As adults, that really is the challenge sometimes.  We try to carry ourselves.  We depend on ourselves and sometimes others more than we do the very one who formed us in our mother’s womb.  We don’t have to!  Life can be overwhelming – definitely draining sometimes.  God wants to sustain us.  He wants to speak to us, to love us, to work and move in our lives, to carry us through the dark times and rejoice with us in the victories.  So, if you are tired, weary, or just going through a really awful time in life – take heart!  Let God carry, you!  Jesus said “come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”      

BENCHMARK BLUES

Well students and educators, it's that time of year again!  It's time for the annual BENCHMARK EXAMS!  Here in good ol' Arkansas, the testing has started!  Just a few days ago we were talking about the test and the idea our government has that we should have all of our students - 100% of them - scoring proficient by the year 2014.  While I assure you, I (and other teachers I know and work with) work 100% and above to make sure every student is equiped to pass not only this test, but more importantly the tests of life, there are some students who have disabilities, disadvantages, and other things that hinder them.  One morning while getting ready for school I was thinking about all of this.  It occurred to me where this "mandate" is coming from...  Our government.  While I am in many ways proud to be an American, loving and praying for my country, I must admit I am often disappointed and even disqusted at times with some things our government does or does not do.  As I began to think about the budget, immigration, and several other issues that our government wrestles with constantly, I began to laugh.  I mean, think about it!  Our government is not 100% proficient!!!  Who are they to tell teachers we should be able to get 100% of our students to score proficient or above on these tests?!  Ironic?  Absolutley!  Hello...  We almost had to have another "government shut down" just this weekend because of the budget.  As much as I want every child I ever teach to be proficient or advanced on the benchmark or any other test...  As much as I want every student I ever have to be successful in life...  As much as I strive to do "whatever it takes" to help young people reach their potential...  I am not the only factor in their success.  I've told my students the last two weeks not to stress over this test!  We have covered every standard required and then some.  We have worked dilligently all year.  They can do this if they will relax, focus and do their best.  However, for the government or anyone else to demand teachers to have every student of every class score proficient or advanced by 2014, is almost funny.  It's not realistic.  Furthermore, it's a double standard.  No institution is perfect.  None.  They are all made of people.  There's not one person who is perfect.  It's kind of like that old saying, "People who live in glass houses should not throw stones..."

If A Dog Were Your Teacher You Would Learn

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them!
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride!
When it's in your best interest: practice obedience!
Stretch before rising!
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass!
On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree!
Never pretend to be something you are not!
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk! 

I found this online earlier this evening.  I would like to add a few things I've learned from my own furry babies. 

PLAY AT LEAST 30 MINUTES A DAY... 

EAT HEARTY... 

AND SLEEP AT LEAST 14 HOURS A DAY!   

(As tired as I am right now I think I could go for that last one!)

W.W.W.F.

The World Wide Wrestling Federation is quite a reputable organization.  Now, I didn't say what kind of reputation it has - but we would all agree it definitely has one!  Many of us see it all as fake!  Those guys aren't really wrestling each other...  They are just acting like they are wrestling, right?  Probably.  The sad thing is most of us know what it truly means to wrestle with something.  No, it's not normally another person, even though there are those people we'd like to take to the mat and teach a thing or two.  Even as I type this blog, I wrestle.  I wrestle with how transparent I should be.  I wrestle with just what to write and how to write it.  I even battle if it's worth attempting to blog some of what is on my heart and mind tonight.

Ever fought depression?  Those of you who have probably felt a sting when you read the word.  If you haven't, you will probably stop reading now because you think - oh, great, here she goes!  Another nut-job with a bad case of "Debbie downer dissorder" (DDD) giving us details we'd really not rather read.  It's ok!  I will spare you the details!  I will say this though, I don't always feel depressed.  Often, quite the opposite.  In fact, this morning, when I got out of bed, one of my first thoughts was totally positive!  I was glad to be awake!  Excited at what the day may bring...  Thanking God for so many wonderful blessings in my life!  I spent the day running errands - even traded one of my guitars for a "sweeter" one!  I love doing that!  I ate dinner with my cousin and his wife - we went bowling - that was a riot!  Almost literally, it was a riot!  They call it "Family Night" at the bowling alley - but it was really loud bad music and karaoke combined with black lights and neon bowling balls.  In spite of it all we had a blast - as I always do with "George and Martha."  (Still trying to protect the not-so-innocent!  HA!)

It was a great day.  Life is great!  I have a job - a house - a car - two wonderful furry four-legged children - friends and family - etc.  So, why is it I have wrestled off and on lately in heart and mind?  I don't know.  Then I think, well, I do...  Like I said, I will spare you all the details and try to get to the heart of the matter.  We all wrestle with something(s).  The irony is when we are wrestling we feel isolated and alone - as if no one else has or is wrestling with stuff.  Sure, everyone's battles are different.  However, we all are fighting something.  What we often don't even realize is that the battles we face as individuals are all part of a war that has been waged against us spiritually.  Paul told the Ephesians, "We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."  (Ephesians 6:12)  I know not everyone believes this, but there is a devil out there.  He comes to "steal, kill and destroy."  BUT THERE IS ALSO A SAVIOR, JESUS, WHO HAS COME "TO GIVE US LIFE... ABUNDANTLEY!"  (John 10:10).  Paul speaks to the Ephesians that we can put on the "armor of God" and fight these battles and win! 

So, my point?  Well, there's actually three!  First, whatever you are wrestling with, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.  We are all fighting something.  Second, our true enemy is the devil.  He will use doubt, fear, self, whatever to keep us from the third and final point.  That point is this - God can give us what we need to win whatever battles we face!  The question is, are we "on His side?"

Circle of Friends

When I begin to think of all the wonderful people God has blessed my life through, well, I'm just overwhelmed with gratitude!  He has allowed me to cross paths with some for shorter seasons than others.  Still, there are those people who are long-term, true blue friends.  For all, I am thankful!  It's as if God has made my life richer, fuller, deeper and just plain old better by knowing each one.  Surely He has "fearfully and wonderfully made" each and every one of you.  Years ago while reflecting on some of my friendships at that time, I wrote a poem to try and capture my heartfelt love and appreciation for God's blessings we commonly call friends.  I'd like to dedicate it to all I call friends -

It has been said that in life's circle of friends
There lies a beautiful bouquet;
Each flower sacred and unique -
It's fragrance wonderfully sweet -
In God's splendor each is arrayed.

So shall I dare to try and even compare
Your priceless kinship to a rose?
No, for you so reflect the Son -
That surely your petals were spun
Of something more precious than gold!

It has been said that in life's circle of friends
Each person is a color of God's love.
With that color you portray
In a most dynamic display -
God's luminous smile from above.

You help paint God's face with such strokes of grace -
That as iron sharpens iron, you sharpen me
To be better than before -
To be more like the Lord -
You are definitely a "Master piece."

So what can I say to try and explain
How God has blessed me through you?
A kindred spirit you've been
You are such a dear friend
Always know I love and appreciate you!

It has been said that in life's circle of friends
Friends are forever friends in the Lord.
We may even be miles apart -
But we are still close in heart!
You and your friendship are adored!


Love you lots!  God bless!!

DOG-ON DREAMS!

It’s 3:15 A.M.  I can’t sleep.  It’s not the first time I’ve been awaken out of a deep sleep by an unusual dream.  In fact, several of my dreams this week have been so disturbing that I could probably write my own horror story called, “Nightmares on Cedar Street.”  However, I did not wake from this evenings dream in shock or fear, but rather in laughter.  To save time and space, I’ll skip the boring details and jump to the element of this dream that keeps me giggling. 

As mentioned in my profile, I have two “furry four legged children,” Barnabas and PJ.  PJ sleeps with me every night.  In fact, when she is not curled up in the crook of my legs it is difficult to go to sleep.  On occasion, I dream she or Barnabas has escaped the confines of our yard and I am desperately trying to find them as they run wild across the town.  Tonight, I dreamed a large group of us had gone on a mission’s trip to teach in a school overseas.  We all lived in this enormous house where we shared a room with one or two other people, much like college dorms.  I had gone to bed, but could not sleep because PJ was not with me.  So, I got up and began to search for her.  Someone had let her and Barnabas out of the house and they had gotten out of the yard.  I was frantically searching for them.  Finally, I found her.  She was under the bleachers eating the remains of a birthday cake someone had discarded.  Apparently, among the discarded cake and party favors was a sound chip they use in the new birthday cards.  Oh, you know the ones I’m talking about!  They say and sing some of the most hysterical things!  Well, not only had PJ scarfed the cake, but she had also swallowed one of these sound chips.  Every time she moved the thing would go off!  It was awful!  I was worried about how she would be able to digest the thing…  Should I rush her to the emergency vet…?  Meanwhile, instead of her annoying bark, she continued to rattle off this warped sounding birthday greeting! 

What in the world?  Needless to say, when I woke up to her lying on my side, her head resting on my shoulder, and her snoring in my ear, I burst out laughing!  Again, I ask, what in the world?!?! 

Silly dog…  Silly me…  Silly dreams!  It had to be the pizza!    

Coming To Ourselves

In Luke chapter 15, Jesus is recorded telling several stories about things that were lost and how important it was for them to be found.  In verses 11 through 32 we read the famous story of the "prodigal son."  We all know it well!  The younger of two sons comes to his father, demands his inheritance early, the father gives it to him and the young man leaves the comforts of his father's home to live the wild life, squandering all he has.  The story has been mentioned a few times at church in the past month.  In fact, our pastor referred to this story just last Sunday.  His point was that as the father in this story, we should be passionate about those who have run away from God.  When they return we should embrace them just as the father did.  The next day I really wrestled with this.  While I know this is a truth, I wrestled in my heart wondering if I could really forgive like that.  Recently, some very close friends have been hurt by others in the "body of Christ."  I must say, in these situations I have hurt for my friends and been very angry with those who were so hurtful.  I began to wonder the age old questions of why and how supposedly Christian people could be so destructive of others.  Humans tend to hurt one another.  I know this.  I've been on both sides of that coin.  As much as I never want to hurt anyone, I know in the past I have.  So, I can't really point a finger at these people as if I'm perfect or something, because I'm not.  At the same time, the pain they have caused people I'm close to, well, it "goes all over me."  So I was wondering if I could "embrace them as the father embraced his son when he returned home.  In praying about this and seeking the Lord's help in the matter, He revealed some things to me that I found very interesting.  It's amazing that a subject such as forgiveness, as much as we talk and preach and share about it, there is always something new I'm learning about it. 

First and foremost, God reminded me that when we forgive it does not mean that we no longer have feelings.  Just because we forgive does not mean that we won't still feel the pain of the harm done.  The father in this story (who represents God) hurt when his son ran off with his money and blew it all on wild living.  More than anything, He hurt when the son was out of relationship with Him and the rest of the family.  Yet in His pain, the Father forgave and hoped that the son would return.  We know this because He was watching and waiting for the boy!  This brings me to the second point...

Have you ever noticed in this story that the Father did not follow his son begging him to return, pointing out the errors of his ways, or anything like that?  He let him go.  He let him go and He hoped and waited for his return.  Wow!  The Father knew until the son came to his senses, he wouldn't return willingly.  As much as it pained Him, He let His son waller in the pig pen until the boy came to himself.  Did you know that's exactly how Jesus described what happened to the young man?  Look at this passage closely, especially verse 17.  It says in the New King James Version that the young man "came to himself."  Then he returned!

Now, don't misunderstand me.  I'm not saying we should never confront the lost or Christians who have wronged us.  Scripture is clear that we are to be the "light unto the world."  We are to "go and make disciples..."  Paul says, how will they know unless they are told and how will they be told unless we go and speak (paraphrasing)?  As far as issues with others, Jesus taught that if we go to the altar and remember an issue we have with a brother, we need to go find them and try to make it right.  I truly believe we should be sharing the Lord with others.  Furthermore, when there is a problem with someone in the "body of Christ" we should go to that person and try to make it right.  We do have to remember that in both instances we are called to share the truth IN LOVE.  Often the fact that many just want to share the truth and neglect the love turns off the non-believer and wounds the believer.  However, if we are truly following God and His Spirit - the Spirit who knows both the heart of God and man - then if by His leading and in His love we go to others and they refuse to listen, all we can do at that point is what the Father did in this story!  There may even be times God wants us to just pray for the person and wait for them to come around because He knows that our efforts to chase them down will not do any good until the person "comes to themselves."  How liberating that is!  To know that as long as I follow the Spirit's leading in these situations, I can rest in God's peace.  Sure, I may still hurt.  I may long for and wait for restoration.  We should hope and pray for such.  But I can't - nor do I have to force anybody to "come home."  I can love and forgive and hope and pray as the Father did for the return of his lost son. 

Who are you waiting on?  Don't give up!   Keep praying!  Remain sensitive to the Spirit's leading. 

Maybe you are the one in the pig pen who needs to come to himself.  More importantly, know the Father is waiting with open arms for us.  When we do realize how much we need Him, He is waiting.  Come home!
   

SNOW DAY

Well, for those of you in the Ozarks, it's another snowy day...  So, I've made a list of "Things to Do" since we got out of school early and will probably be snowed in most of the weekend:

1.  Give the dogs a bath
2.  Clean the house
3.  Practice the guitar
4.  Pull the chord sheets for songs the youth band wants to learn
5.  Continue working on the youth band playlist on my PC

Things I'm doing (or have done):

1.  Took a nap
2.  Laid on the couch holding PJ while watching TV
3.  Played around on my new bass
4.  Played Zuma
5.  Working on my blog

Hmmm...  My "Doing (or done) List" may not be very productive - but it sure is a lot more relaxing!!!  I think PJ and Barnabas need more quality time with me on the couch, eh?  What do you think?  HEHE!

So, for those of you enjoying a SNOW DAY - what are YOU DOING?  :) 

39 AND HOLDING...

Hello boys and girls!  Ladies and gentlemen!  Dogs and cats!  And anyone else who happens across this blog.  I have this cousin.  Let's say his name is George.  It's not really.  However, I feel the need to change his name to protect the not so innocent!  HAHA!  He and his lovely wife have been reading my blogs - so I thought they'd appreciate me using them to introduce my line of thinking this evening.  He enjoys teasing me because I'm about ten years older than him.  In fact, he had invited me to do something with he and Martha (not his wife's name - but I changed hers to truly protect someone who is innocent!  HA!)  At any rate, he had invited me to do something with him and Martha this evening.  I sent him a text a little while ago and let him know I was finally headed home after getting my car back from Firestone, so I was just going to call it a night.  Of course he had to say something in response about me needing to go to bed early because I am getting older...  Almost 40.  Well, I just want everyone to know I am NOT 40.  Not yet!  I am literally and figuratively 39 and holding!  If you are wondering what I'm holding on to - you may want to fasten your seat belt because I'm about to tell you.  I might also preface this entry with the fact that I will be sharing some personal information that everyone and their dog (especially young dogs) might not want to know...

Yes, I am 39 and holding.  Holding on to what, you ask?  Well, first and foremost, I am holding on to the fact that there are still wonderful people out there.  In my 39 years I have met some amazing people.  Through the years I've had truly God-sent friends and family who have been there in the best of times and in the worst of times.  Just recently, I was telling one of those fabulous friends about some people I knew that attended a local church where I was pretty much raised.  I was telling my friend how sweet and all around great people these folks were.  Today of all days, I ran into some of them at the mall while I was waiting on my car.  Sure enough - SWEET AS EVER!  We talked about family and such.  She asked me about church.  When I told her where I was attending she said the most beautiful thing!  "Well, that's wonderful!  You know, it's not about the name on the door.  We got over that a long time ago..."  I told her I agreed and we both agreed it's really all about having a relationship with Jesus and helping others develop that relationship.  This was such a warm and encouraging exchange!  I must admit, I've not always gotten that kind of response from people with whom I used to attend church...  However, that is not where I'm going tonight!  Tonight, I want to thank God for people like this lady who was so Christ-like in her response.  I want to thank God for people in my own church who God has blessed me to just know and be able to trust and grow in the Lord with.  I want to thank God for friends and family who are just honestly terrific people.  You know who you are!  I know, some of us have lost touch over the years.  Some of us see each other more regularly.  Regardless, to those many wonderful people who God has blessed my life through - I LOVE YA!  I APPRECIATE YOU!!!!  YOU ALL ROCK!!!!!  :) :)   I'M HOLDING ON TO YOU PEEPS!!!  :) :)

The second thing I'm holding on to is the fact that just because a lady is single and almost 39 does not make her weird, gay, or unhappy.  I'm usually quite happy - but I am not gay.  Weird - ok, I admit, I am a little on the weird side - but in a good way!  :)  Years ago, after returning from work overseas, I had a lady ask me what was wrong with me.  She wanted to know why I couldn't find a man!  She pointed out that all of my friends were getting married and starting families, and that I'd been all over the world and "still hadn't found anyone."  Oddly enough, there have been moments that I have wondered what was wrong with me.  Then there was the guy who saw me playing basketball with some of the men at church I attended for a while and he told one of the church secretaries that he thought my "door swung both ways."  Actually, I thought a basketball court full of men would be a great place to look for a man.  Ok, so really, I used to really just enjoy playing basketball with whomever!  Still, I found such comments hurtful.  I know, you are probably thinking unforgiveness is what I'm holding on to!  HA!  In all seriousness, I love both of these people and have forgiven them!  I'm simply trying to make a point here...  If you know someone who is single don't judge them for it!  Furthermore, I think we all (myself included for sure here) need to think about what we say to or about people before we dive into conversations.  Again, I know that's an area I have to work on!  At any rate, back to being single...  It's NOT ALL BAD!  It's NOT A DISEASE!!  It's NOT A DISORDER!!!  While I used to long to meet Mr. Right, I now actually see and have begun to appreciate the pros of being single.  Yes, I am still holding on to the possibility of meeting someone with whom to share life's journey.  However, if it doesn't happen, that's ok!  As I always say, "I would rather be single than stuck with a stinker!"  Besides, my God has a plan!  As our pastor shared this morning - He has a destiny for us!  I want to fulfill God's destiny for my life!  I figure, if a mate is a part of that plan - than awesome!  If not - it's not like I'm alone!  Go back to the beginning!  I'm surrounded by people who I love and adore!  More importantly, I have a God who never leaves or forsakes me!   Amen?  Amen!  Wait, did someone say "A man?"  Where?  Is he single?  Does He love Jesus?  HEHEHEHEHE....  Oh look at all the "HEs!"  :) :) :) :)  ANYWAY...

Now the third thing I'm holding on to is a bit personal.  Remember M...  I mean, "George?"  A few years ago when that movie came out "The 40 Year Old Virgin" it became a joke between he and I that that was where I was headed...  Now, for those of you thinking, man, George is cruel...  He's not!  He's like the little brother that I never had!  We razz each other all the time about all sorts of things!  In fact, he and his wife are in with all the wonderful people I want to hold on to as described earlier!  While I've not seen the movie (and don't intend to) I leaked the joke to some friends and co-workers on a trip one time and one of them exclaimed, "What?  Oh my!  We need to fix that!"  What????  I'm not broken!!!!  I mean, seriously!!!!  My point...  Why does our society think remaining a virgin until marriage is such a freakish thing?  I mean, why shouldn't I be a virgin?  Don't misunderstand me...  I'm not saying sexual intimacy is wrong or anything like that!  I believe God instituted the family - and that should be a fun, enjoyable, loving, intimate way husband and wives connect!!  God intended that intimacy for marriage and wanted it to be a beautiful thing.  Not only that, but He did want us to fill the earth with people and, well, babies don't come from storks!  The Apostle Paul said the "marriage bed was undefiled."  Simply put, sex in the bounds of marriage should be a good thing!  While Paul said that over 2,000 years ago, Dr. Oz confirms it by telling people "a healthy sex life will prolong life."   Personally, I believe the "healthiest" sex to have is with your spouse!  I don't have a spouse.  So I'm holding on to that until I do...  Personally, I think that's the way it should be.  I know in our society that it is very difficult.  We are so bombarded with messages from music, movies, television, books, magazines, advertisements and the media that everyone is doing it and it's ok to just sleep with whomever.  It's not ok.  While I'm far from perfect (far, far away from perfect), I do plan on and hope to hold on to my virginity until I'm married.  We should be teaching our children to do the same. 

Last but not least, I'm holding on to HOPE.  Hope for a future!  Yes, I'm older and heavier than I used to be.  I can't play basketball with the boys, or girls like I used to.  I do want to go to bed earlier and earlier.  However, I have this wonderful, Heavenly Father.  While He is heavenly, He is also always so present in my life.  He amazes me!  He has blessed me far beyond all I need and certainly waaay beyond what I deserve!!! With Him, I may be 39 and holding today, but I can march into the 40s smiling and laughing - head held high and ready to face the joys and challenges of whatever life holds.  Why?  Because I know Who is holding me!  Yes, I'm 39...  And God has been holding my hand every minute of this marvelous journey.  With His help, I will hold on to Him and He to me throughout this life and into eternity...

What are you holding on to?  

Converting Bears

A friend of mine who pastors one of the local churches told me this story the other day.  It went something like this:

There were three good friends who were all “men of the cloth.”  One was a Catholic priest, one a Baptist minister, and the other a Jewish rabbi.  They often met for lunch or coffee and discussed the ups and downs of life.  During many of these discussions they all had a tendency to brag about their skills in converting people into their religious affiliations.  One day, they decided to see which of them was the best at getting people to join their fellowships.  However, they all felt human subjects would be too easy.  They decided that the first one to truly convert a bear would definitely be the best.  So, each set off in search of a bear with promises to return victorious to their next luncheon. 

Well, a week or so later when they met for lunch it was obvious by all appearances that the task had not been as easy as anticipated.  At first it was just the Catholic priest and Baptist minister.  The Catholic Priest was scratched and bruised from head to toe.  He spoke first of how he had found a bear and began to try to talk to the creature about becoming a Catholic.  He went on to tell of how the bear began to charge and attack him.  After a bit of a struggle, the priest was able to get some of his holy water and sprinkleit on the bear.  He claimed the bear calmed down immediately.  The Baptist minister, also broken and bruised, spoke up and said he had a similar experience.  He found a bear and when he tried to get him to become a Baptist, the bear attacked him.  He wrestled the bear until they landed in a creek where he baptized the bear and the bear calmed down immediately.  

Just as the Baptist minister ended his story, in rolled the Jewish Rabbi in a wheel chair.  He was in pitiful shape!  His friends barley recognized him behind all the bandages, and plaster.  As he wheeled himself, his IV’s and his oxygen tank over to the table his friends began to question him about his sad estate.  He said he too had found a bear.  He went on to say that everything seemed fine…  Until he tried to circumcise him….

GET OVER IT!

How many times have we heard someone say, "Well, they just need to get over it?"  On occasion we may even have someone say to our face, "You just need to get over it!"  Why, just today I heard some Christians talking about how sometimes we need to tell people to "pull themselves up by their bootstraps" instead of patting them on the back and encouraging them to wallow in self-pity.  One had even shared how he recently told a co-worker going through a divorce she needed to "Get over it!"  I sat there stupefied.  That's what I do sometimes.  I sit there - caught like a deer in the headlights - bumfuzzled by the things people say.  I'm not sure how to react because maybe I have misunderstood them.  So, I go away and analyze what was said.  I must say, after mulling it over, I have trouble hearing Jesus tell anyone who is honestly hurting to "Get over it."  In fact, as I read Scripture I find Him compelling us to bring our hurts, our pains, our disappointments, our shattered dreams, our grief, our EVERYTHING to Him.  He tells us to "Cast our cares on Him because He cares for us."  (I Peter 5:7)  Jesus is a loving, compassionate God.  According to Isaiah 61, Jesus was sent to "to bring good news to the poor... to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.^"  Psalms 57:17 says He "will not reject a broken and repentant heart."  Throughout the Bible there is one story after another of people who face tests, trials, tragedies, and tribulations.  Did I miss God telling all those people to "Get over it?" 

For example, I see God hearing a worn-out, depressed prophet in I Kings 19, and answering his cry.  Elijah had just witnessed God literally rain down fire from Heaven, consuming not only a sacrifice, but the gallons upon gallons of water that had been heaped upon that sacrifice drenching it and pouring into the trench around the altar.  He expects Jezebel and Ahab will repent now that they have seen God perform this miracle.  They don't!  Jezebel claims she will kill Elijah!  So, even though he just witnessed this amazing miracle of God, Elijah sits down and cries out to the Lord to just end his life.  It's not a picture we like to see - the "man of God" depressed and asking the Lord to just take him out of this life.  If we had been with him on Mt. Carmel and then heard his depressing cry we may have been tempted to tell him, "Get over it!  Dude - Did you not just see what God did to that water logged sacrifice?"  I find it interesting that God did not say anything like that to Elijah.  He didn't condemn him for this low moment.  In fact, God let Elijah rest - and sent an angel to wake him and encourage him to eat.  Then God continued to deal with Elijah - eventually speaking to the prophet in a "still small voice" reminding him he was not the only one who served the Lord.  In fact, God even instructed him to take on Elisha as a help-mate.

Another fascinating story can be found in John chapter 11.  It's the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.  Read that story carefully.  I dare you!  :)   These two grief stricken sisters both said to the Lord, "If you had only been here..."  Wow!  That's bold!  To tell Jesus Christ, "Well, you picked a fine time to show up!  Our brother is dead now!  You could have prevented this!"  Do you not hear the pain and anguish in their voice.  They love Jesus.  They believe in Him.  Yet they are hurt and limited in their thinking to even fathom that He actually waited on purpose - so Lazarus would be dead and God could be glorified in the man's resurrection.  What does Jesus do?  Does He say, "You ladies are being way to dramatic!  You really need to get over it..."  No!  In fact, while He does try to explain to them that He is the resurrection, He knows they aren't getting it.  He goes to the tomb and does what - WEEPS!  Why?  He knew He would call Lazarus out of that grave!  Why weep?  Because He is "touched with the feelings of our infirmities..."  Whether mental, emotional, physical...  Whatever the source of pain and suffering, Jesus identifies with us!  He wept with and for those who were hurting at the loss of Lazarus!  I wonder if God was tempted to tell Jesus, "Aw, get over it Son!  And get on with the resurrection of Lazarus!"  I doubt it. 

Again, over and over in Scripture we see God calling to hurting people with His arms open wide!  Yes, He is straight forward with people about turning from sin and following Him.  Furthermore, He often reminds those who have been through the fiery trials of life of just Who He is...  No, He does not want us to wallow in self-pity!  He is the one who "lifts us from the miry clay!"  So please know I'm not saying He wants us to stay stuck in our pain and suffering.  He wants to take us through those things for His glory and our good.  The awesome thing about the Lord is that He will get in the muck and mire with us to pull us from those horrific places of life!  As Christians, we are to follow Jesus.  I think that means reaching out to those who are hurting with love and compassion, encouraging them, listening to them, being there for them.  Sometimes we do have to be honest and address tough issues with people.  However, God is clear about doing all things in love.  In ourselves, this can be a difficult thing.  However, with God, all things are possible.  His Holy Spirit knows the heart of God and He knows our hearts as humans.  If we aren't sure how to help someone who is hurting - maybe we should ask God to let His Holy Spirit give us the wisdom and the words to say.  He will!  He loves us! 

Again, I'm not saying I don't believe in "tough love."  Furthermore, I probably have told someone to "Get over it," before.  I distinctly remember one of my 6th grade students literally throwing a bawling crying fit because he had lost his pencil.  I don't know if I used the exact phrase - "Get over it!"  However, I do remember explaining to him that we are sixth graders and we don't cry over lost pencils.  At the same time, I hope I am sensitive enough to the needs of other people that when someone is truly hurting I can show them God's love and compassion, encouraging them that God can help them through even the most difficult times of life.