shoes and Jesus
Friday, while carrying some items down the steps to our basement (in my stocking feet) my foot slipped on the very first step and I fell all the way to the bottom of the landing … injuring (but not seriously) my right ankle, knee and hip. Sunday morning in my office while sorting through a stack of articles I came across one that gave some advice on how to avoid household injuries. To prevent falls down the steps in your home the article said to wear shoes instead of just socks. Especially wear shoes with some tread on the soles. I remember glancing at this article a few …
leave the tree up
According to research the first Christmas tree came on the scene in the European country of Latvia in 1510. That’s about 500 years ago. From my perspective I believe the first Christmas tree arrived about 2,000 years ago. You see the Bible often refers to the cross of Christ as a “tree”. And it seems GOD hung the first ornament on that “tree” … and that ornament was JESUS Himself … a willing sacrifice. “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds we are healed.” 1 Peter …
say it – sing it – live it
Although few exist, you can still find public businesses who actually wish you a Merry Christmas and play Christmas carols. I found such a place yesterday in Geneva, Illinois … so I listened carefully to the lyrics while I waited in line. Here is a snap shot of what I heard – – - “Glooooooooooooooooooria in excelsis deo” …. means “glory to GOD in the highest“. “Oh Come Oh Come Immanuel” … “Immanuel” means “GOD with us“. “Worship Christ the new-born King” … “Christ” means “anointed one“. “Christ the Savior is born” … “Savior” means “one who saves or delivers“. “Merry Christmas” is a nice greeting … but …
the running back's spirit
While watching a Thanksgiving football game I heard a commentator mention over and over again the unique “spirit” in a particular running back. He ran hard, could read his blockers, was able to cut on a dime, and kept his high-stepping knees driving forward with power when about to be tackled. The commentator stated … “All running backs need this kind of special spirit.” To be an effective representative of GOD you and I need a special spirit as well. And we cannot manufacture this spirit on our own … it must come from GOD alone and is offered through …
no idea – no clue
Saturday I officiated a funeral for a 74 year old man. During the order of service I introduced his son to give a brief eulogy. I stood off to the side partially listening but mostly thinking about the opening point of my message. Suddenly and without warning the son giving the eulogy turns to me and says: “Pastor would you lead us in The Lord’s Prayer?” My mind was a blank … I had no idea … no clue. Not only could I not remember the Lord’s prayer, I could not remember the passage of scripture where it was found. …
clear expectations
Growing up I knew exactly what my parents expected from me. Although these expectations were made clear … often times they needed to be reinforced on my back-side. As a high school, college and seminary student life was a little easier when precise curriculum guidelines were in place. Although these expectations were made clear … at times I failed to meet them. As an average to below average high school and college athlete I experienced coaches who defined my strengths and weaknesses … and I usually appreciated their advice. With all this said … How about GOD … What is …
peace prize priority
The Nobel Peace Prize appears to be centered around an outstanding person (or persons) making a significant contribution to world or international peace. A nobel gesture for sure, but one that Jesus himself probably would not receive if He were still in His earthly body today. Scripture makes it clear that the Prince of Peace (Jesus) did not come to earth as a man to accomplish world peace among the nations. Instead Jesus instructed us that we would always face wars and rumors of wars until He returns to establish His Kingdom. (Matthew 24:6-7) The peace Christ came to give …
what in the world are you eating ?
I’ve heard those words before … usually after I’ve been caught with a half full bag of M&M’s or with an empty hot fudge sundae container in the back floor of my Jeep. I’ve yet to learn the consistent habit of eating healthy and when my discipline and self control both go out the window … I feel lousy. As parents we need spiritual disciplines … and we must teach our children these same disciplines as well. This week I met with a young man who claimed Jesus as his Savior … yet admitted he was off God’s path. In …
don't ask me to change
I have sat through and listened to a zillion sermons and Bible studies. (not really, but it makes me sound extra spiritual) Not always … but at times … I am amazed how a very familiar theme can suddenly take on a more significant meaning. And not always … but at times … this “more significant meaning” can actually have an effect on the way I live. Imagine that – life application of Biblical principles. What a concept. In reality, hearing a message from scripture is actually hearing words from God. But the problem with me … and I am …
Health Care Priority
This is not about our President or “town hall meetings”. This is about priorities. Our nation is caught up in a debate that centers around health care and insurance plans and thus the media has sucked us into a feeding frenzy. TV has become a nightmare of Jerry Springer shows … all over another political or social issue that has absolutely NO eternal value. Is this stuff important ? Yes. Is this stuff everlasting ? No. There is only one health care plan that deserves to be at the top of our priority list. And this plan was not designed …
