November 30
While visiting a small Lutheran church in Massachusetts I found a sheaf of yellow dots with sticky backs in the guest register in the pew. A note said to put one of these dots on the face of your watch to remind you to take time to pray. Good idea I thought.
Every time I look at my watch now I see that yellow dot and pray. I need that yellow dot in my life. How about you?
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Friday, November 30, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
My Kind of Guy
November 29
Bill was a family man, a partner in a large law firm and head of the community foundation board. I was on the staff. For years Bill had been quietly fighting cancer. He was back in the hospital again, this time he had his nose removed.
"I’ll have a dressing over the hole,” he said, “but I’m still going to the conference.” On the plane he was as upbeat as ever. Suddenly he sneezed. I blurted, “I didn’t know you could sneeze without a nose.” He smiled, “Sure, and I have a built in handkerchief.”
“The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; he who keeps his way preserves his soul.” (Proverbs 16:17)
Bill was a family man, a partner in a large law firm and head of the community foundation board. I was on the staff. For years Bill had been quietly fighting cancer. He was back in the hospital again, this time he had his nose removed.
"I’ll have a dressing over the hole,” he said, “but I’m still going to the conference.” On the plane he was as upbeat as ever. Suddenly he sneezed. I blurted, “I didn’t know you could sneeze without a nose.” He smiled, “Sure, and I have a built in handkerchief.”
“The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; he who keeps his way preserves his soul.” (Proverbs 16:17)
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
A Glass of Wine
November 28
A pastor tells me that he and his wife were dinning out with her best friend and her atheist husband who is also a cynic. The waiter came to their table and asked for a drink order. The skeptic orders a class of the house wine. When the waiter leaves the man flashes a big smiles ans says, “Reverend too bad Jesus isn’t here, he could turn my cheap glass of wine into the best."
The pastor says to himself, I’m not going there. He ignores the comment and the ladies engage in a conversation. The waiter returns with the beverages and says to the critic, “ I’m sorry sir but we are out of our house wine. My manager apologizes and said to give you a glass of our best wine with his compliments.”
“Answer a fool as his folly deserves, that he isn’t wise in his own eyes.” Proverbs 26:5
A pastor tells me that he and his wife were dinning out with her best friend and her atheist husband who is also a cynic. The waiter came to their table and asked for a drink order. The skeptic orders a class of the house wine. When the waiter leaves the man flashes a big smiles ans says, “Reverend too bad Jesus isn’t here, he could turn my cheap glass of wine into the best."
The pastor says to himself, I’m not going there. He ignores the comment and the ladies engage in a conversation. The waiter returns with the beverages and says to the critic, “ I’m sorry sir but we are out of our house wine. My manager apologizes and said to give you a glass of our best wine with his compliments.”
“Answer a fool as his folly deserves, that he isn’t wise in his own eyes.” Proverbs 26:5
Monday, November 26, 2007
Historic Weekend
November 27
It had been a beautiful weekend to visit our nation’s capital. We toured the White House with a group but President Johnson remained upstairs. On Sunday we attend a service at the National Cathedral where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered an inspiring message on loving each other and peace.
Driving to Connecticut that evening we hear President Johnson say he will concentrate on ending the ( Vietnam)war and will not seek reelection. The following Thursday Dr. King is assassinated in Memphis. It is a dark time for America. It would get worse.
“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
It had been a beautiful weekend to visit our nation’s capital. We toured the White House with a group but President Johnson remained upstairs. On Sunday we attend a service at the National Cathedral where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered an inspiring message on loving each other and peace.
Driving to Connecticut that evening we hear President Johnson say he will concentrate on ending the ( Vietnam)war and will not seek reelection. The following Thursday Dr. King is assassinated in Memphis. It is a dark time for America. It would get worse.
“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The Hand
November 26
There it is! The shadow of a hand is on my bedroom floor. I scream like only a six-year old can. My mother flicks on the light. I insist the hand was there. My mother turns out the light and sits on my bed. Soon the moonlight reappears on the floor. “Look,” I yell, “There is THE HAND.”I hear her gasp. My mother sees it too.
She turns on the light and glances around the room. I see a frown turn into a smile. She removes a cutout of a waving Pinocchio from the wall and turns out the light. When the moonlight returns the hand is gone. I am thankful for a mother who showed her boy compassion.
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
There it is! The shadow of a hand is on my bedroom floor. I scream like only a six-year old can. My mother flicks on the light. I insist the hand was there. My mother turns out the light and sits on my bed. Soon the moonlight reappears on the floor. “Look,” I yell, “There is THE HAND.”I hear her gasp. My mother sees it too.
She turns on the light and glances around the room. I see a frown turn into a smile. She removes a cutout of a waving Pinocchio from the wall and turns out the light. When the moonlight returns the hand is gone. I am thankful for a mother who showed her boy compassion.
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Learning from Canadian Geese
November 25
Canadian geese fly in a V formation, which actually helps the individual bird fly higher and longer than if it flew alone. Several geese honk encouragement to the leader up front and when the point bird tires, another takes its place. If one bird is wounded or sick and leaves the formation, two will go with it for protection. The two will stay with the injured bird until it recovers or dies. The remaining two will return to another flock.
We can learn a lot from those traits of the Canadian geese.
“In the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge.” (Psalms 57:1)
Canadian geese fly in a V formation, which actually helps the individual bird fly higher and longer than if it flew alone. Several geese honk encouragement to the leader up front and when the point bird tires, another takes its place. If one bird is wounded or sick and leaves the formation, two will go with it for protection. The two will stay with the injured bird until it recovers or dies. The remaining two will return to another flock.
We can learn a lot from those traits of the Canadian geese.
“In the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge.” (Psalms 57:1)
Friday, November 23, 2007
Cheerful Giver
November 24
“She is desperate,” the church secretary says, “I thought you might be willing to help. She can rent a car and drive her child to the hospital and back for fifty dollars.” Joy drops the money off at the church office.
The next day Joy finds $65 while rummaging through her desk at home. She had put the money aside for something she has forgotten about. (Hmmm). The church secretary calls and tells Joy the lady received a ride to the hospital afterall but spent $23 on gas and tolls. She returned $27 to the church office today.
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
(2 Corinthians 9:7)
“She is desperate,” the church secretary says, “I thought you might be willing to help. She can rent a car and drive her child to the hospital and back for fifty dollars.” Joy drops the money off at the church office.
The next day Joy finds $65 while rummaging through her desk at home. She had put the money aside for something she has forgotten about. (Hmmm). The church secretary calls and tells Joy the lady received a ride to the hospital afterall but spent $23 on gas and tolls. She returned $27 to the church office today.
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
(2 Corinthians 9:7)
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Post Thanksgiving
November 23
Surely we ate too much as usual but had a wonderful feast and fellowship at a friend's house. After a scrumptious meal our host asks what we are most thankful for this year. He praises his wife for her love and her unwavering support. A single lady is grateful for her health and for the excitement of a new opportunity. Joy is thankful for me and our church family and I'm glad to be here for another Thanksgiving and to have a loving and prudent wife who is truly "a gift from the Lord." And I thank God for His gift of love.
What are you most thankful for this year?
"Oh give thanks to the Lord for He is good, for His love endures forever." Psalm 136-1.
Surely we ate too much as usual but had a wonderful feast and fellowship at a friend's house. After a scrumptious meal our host asks what we are most thankful for this year. He praises his wife for her love and her unwavering support. A single lady is grateful for her health and for the excitement of a new opportunity. Joy is thankful for me and our church family and I'm glad to be here for another Thanksgiving and to have a loving and prudent wife who is truly "a gift from the Lord." And I thank God for His gift of love.
What are you most thankful for this year?
"Oh give thanks to the Lord for He is good, for His love endures forever." Psalm 136-1.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Thanksgiving and Bad Weather
November 22
The roads are too icy to drive from Hartford to family in Rhode Island. We pack up the kids, the hot dishes and slide off to the church parish house.
There are about fifty adults and children from the neighborhood there. We are different colors, and we speak different languages. We stand hand in hand giving thanks for all God’s bounty. We break bread and share the Lord’s Supper before eating our own.
We arrived as hungry strangers. We leave filled with food, fellowship and God’s blessings. This is a Thanksgiving I shall long cherish. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. (Psalm 95:2)
The roads are too icy to drive from Hartford to family in Rhode Island. We pack up the kids, the hot dishes and slide off to the church parish house.
There are about fifty adults and children from the neighborhood there. We are different colors, and we speak different languages. We stand hand in hand giving thanks for all God’s bounty. We break bread and share the Lord’s Supper before eating our own.
We arrived as hungry strangers. We leave filled with food, fellowship and God’s blessings. This is a Thanksgiving I shall long cherish. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. (Psalm 95:2)
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Turning Point
November 21
Turning Point! This is the defining moment in a life that changes it forever. My wife Joy’s turning point came at a Billy Graham crusade in Hartford Ct.
“I responded to the call that night,” she says, “but I didn’t come to the Lord until I decided to follow Him wherever He wants me to go.” The real turning point is when a life is turned from the world to God, from me to Thee. Have you reached your turning point?
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
Turning Point! This is the defining moment in a life that changes it forever. My wife Joy’s turning point came at a Billy Graham crusade in Hartford Ct.
“I responded to the call that night,” she says, “but I didn’t come to the Lord until I decided to follow Him wherever He wants me to go.” The real turning point is when a life is turned from the world to God, from me to Thee. Have you reached your turning point?
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
Monday, November 19, 2007
Where Does the Sun Go?
November 20
A small voice from the back seat asks, “ Dad, where does the sun go?" I reply, “I’ll show you when we get home.” I bring a flashlight (sun) and grab an orange (earth) and there in the dining room I explain the cosmos to a four-year-old.
A week later driving home as the sun sets I hear from the back seat, “There goes the sun behind the orange.” I should have told her where the sun comes from not where it goes.
“Then God said, “Let there be light;” and there was light. And God saw the light that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. (Genesis 1:3-4)
A small voice from the back seat asks, “ Dad, where does the sun go?" I reply, “I’ll show you when we get home.” I bring a flashlight (sun) and grab an orange (earth) and there in the dining room I explain the cosmos to a four-year-old.
A week later driving home as the sun sets I hear from the back seat, “There goes the sun behind the orange.” I should have told her where the sun comes from not where it goes.
“Then God said, “Let there be light;” and there was light. And God saw the light that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. (Genesis 1:3-4)
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Modern Day David vs Goliath
November 19
This time the battlefield is downtown Montpelier, Vt. Goliath is a major ice cream maker and David is an Italian Ice vendor whose slingshot is a one page flyer protesting being barred from a festival sponsored by the giant. The flyer works. The vendor is invited to the festival. The giant is not slain, just cut down to size. I know God is smiling. I’ll bet an ice cream or a dish of Italian ice on that.
“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves, for the battle is the Lord’s.
(l Samuel 17:47 NIV)
This time the battlefield is downtown Montpelier, Vt. Goliath is a major ice cream maker and David is an Italian Ice vendor whose slingshot is a one page flyer protesting being barred from a festival sponsored by the giant. The flyer works. The vendor is invited to the festival. The giant is not slain, just cut down to size. I know God is smiling. I’ll bet an ice cream or a dish of Italian ice on that.
“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves, for the battle is the Lord’s.
(l Samuel 17:47 NIV)
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Keep Praying
November 18
A friend in our church is going in for an operation for breast cancer. I pray briefly right then for the Lord’s mercy and hand in that surgery.
Later that day I learn that her operation went well and the surgeon thought it was a success. I quietly say,” Thank you Lord for a prayer answered.” I’m blown away when I hear that her whole office stopped what they were doing and prayed when she went into surgery and didn’t stop praying until she came out.
“Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:28)
A friend in our church is going in for an operation for breast cancer. I pray briefly right then for the Lord’s mercy and hand in that surgery.
Later that day I learn that her operation went well and the surgeon thought it was a success. I quietly say,” Thank you Lord for a prayer answered.” I’m blown away when I hear that her whole office stopped what they were doing and prayed when she went into surgery and didn’t stop praying until she came out.
“Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:28)
Friday, November 16, 2007
Praise God for Life and Death
November 17
When I read, "Praise God for life and death," in a newsletter I thought, “right on.” I hadn’t thought about praising God for death before but I should. Art Hallett, who authored the newsletter, said “I walked into ‘Granma’s’ room to see if she wanted anything when I realized that she is not there. She is alive in Heaven with Jesus.”
I had a similar experience years ago. My daughter called me six months after her grandfather died and said, “I just realized Pop Pops is not here, I can’t call him anymore.” That realization can be a lonely moment or it can be a freeing one. For believers, death is not final...Praise God.
“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)
When I read, "Praise God for life and death," in a newsletter I thought, “right on.” I hadn’t thought about praising God for death before but I should. Art Hallett, who authored the newsletter, said “I walked into ‘Granma’s’ room to see if she wanted anything when I realized that she is not there. She is alive in Heaven with Jesus.”
I had a similar experience years ago. My daughter called me six months after her grandfather died and said, “I just realized Pop Pops is not here, I can’t call him anymore.” That realization can be a lonely moment or it can be a freeing one. For believers, death is not final...Praise God.
“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Fear of Bridges
November 16
For many years I had a fear of driving over large suspension bridges. One day on the way to the Tampa airport a voice in my head said, "it is time to face your fear of big bridges and trust God." So I intentionally take I-275. The Skyway Bridge looms in the distance.
I start up the main span. “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.” I’m shaking. “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me.” My hands steady on the wheel, “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” I reach the highest point, “You prepare a table in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil.” The sky brightens and a peace comes over me. “My cup runs over.” God is so faithful.
Fear knocks, faith answers and there is no one there. (I no longer avoid high bridges.) Face your fears with faith and take action.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” (From Psalm 23)
For many years I had a fear of driving over large suspension bridges. One day on the way to the Tampa airport a voice in my head said, "it is time to face your fear of big bridges and trust God." So I intentionally take I-275. The Skyway Bridge looms in the distance.
I start up the main span. “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.” I’m shaking. “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me.” My hands steady on the wheel, “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” I reach the highest point, “You prepare a table in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil.” The sky brightens and a peace comes over me. “My cup runs over.” God is so faithful.
Fear knocks, faith answers and there is no one there. (I no longer avoid high bridges.) Face your fears with faith and take action.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” (From Psalm 23)
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Anniversary
November 15
It is our tenth wedding anniversary and we exchange hugs and a card at breakfast.During breakfast Mr. A.calls. He and his wife are arguing, their counselor is in session, their ministers are away and she has just left the house. Mrs. A arrives at our door wanting to talk with Joy.
That night we have the couple over for dinner. We listen, first to one and then the other and urge more professional help. We pray together. Hearing their complaints reminds us how blessed we are in our own relationship and keeping God in the center of our marriage. The fresh realization of what we have is a priceless anniversary present.
“Of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.” (John 1:16)
It is our tenth wedding anniversary and we exchange hugs and a card at breakfast.During breakfast Mr. A.calls. He and his wife are arguing, their counselor is in session, their ministers are away and she has just left the house. Mrs. A arrives at our door wanting to talk with Joy.
That night we have the couple over for dinner. We listen, first to one and then the other and urge more professional help. We pray together. Hearing their complaints reminds us how blessed we are in our own relationship and keeping God in the center of our marriage. The fresh realization of what we have is a priceless anniversary present.
“Of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.” (John 1:16)
Love Light
November 14
She said she felt sick and could I come right home. I just had a thought to call. I found her in bed with a temperature. Seeing her eyes, I was struck by how real love can be.
I remembered a preacher saying, “Our love is like a light, which instantly dispels the darkness. Sometimes the light is shut out when a door is closed but that isn’t the light’s fault. The moment the door is reopened the light is there.”
God’s love is like that, I thought. On this night our bedroom was filled with His love light. We left the door wide open.
“Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8)
She said she felt sick and could I come right home. I just had a thought to call. I found her in bed with a temperature. Seeing her eyes, I was struck by how real love can be.
I remembered a preacher saying, “Our love is like a light, which instantly dispels the darkness. Sometimes the light is shut out when a door is closed but that isn’t the light’s fault. The moment the door is reopened the light is there.”
God’s love is like that, I thought. On this night our bedroom was filled with His love light. We left the door wide open.
“Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8)
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Cantaloupe
November 13
Cantaloupe is my favorite fruit. I marvel at the Master Gardener who conceived this delicious and wholesome food. We plant the seed, maybe weed a little and then harvest the crop. Our partner provides the earth, the seed, the sun, the water and all that is needed for growth. He asks for the first ten per cent of the yield and we get to keep the rest. What a great deal.
Have I kept my part of the bargain? Have I thanked my Partner for my 90%? Have you?
“We made ordinances to bring the first fruits of our ground and the first fruits of all trees, year by year, to the house of the Lord.” (Nehemiah10: 35)
Cantaloupe is my favorite fruit. I marvel at the Master Gardener who conceived this delicious and wholesome food. We plant the seed, maybe weed a little and then harvest the crop. Our partner provides the earth, the seed, the sun, the water and all that is needed for growth. He asks for the first ten per cent of the yield and we get to keep the rest. What a great deal.
Have I kept my part of the bargain? Have I thanked my Partner for my 90%? Have you?
“We made ordinances to bring the first fruits of our ground and the first fruits of all trees, year by year, to the house of the Lord.” (Nehemiah10: 35)
Monday, November 12, 2007
Asking for a Sign
November 12
We first met her at a divorce recovery small group Joy and I facilitated. She said at her lowest point a friend invited her to a birthday party for a six-year-old boy. While there she felt so lonely she retreated from the party and wandered into the living room and stood before a stone fireplace with her head bowed and prayed.
“I asked for a sign of help from God. I lifted my head and through my tears I saw a framed copy of “Footprints” hanging over the fireplace.
“Call on Me in your day of trouble and I will deliver you and you will give me the glory.” (Psalm 50:15)
We first met her at a divorce recovery small group Joy and I facilitated. She said at her lowest point a friend invited her to a birthday party for a six-year-old boy. While there she felt so lonely she retreated from the party and wandered into the living room and stood before a stone fireplace with her head bowed and prayed.
“I asked for a sign of help from God. I lifted my head and through my tears I saw a framed copy of “Footprints” hanging over the fireplace.
“Call on Me in your day of trouble and I will deliver you and you will give me the glory.” (Psalm 50:15)
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Veterans Day Special
November 11
In 1947 I was an apprentice on the waterfront at a boy scout camp and my tent mate was Malcolm "Peppy" Daniels, a disabled vet, who was the camp chef that summer. I noticed when we were changing to go swmming a long scar with six indentations in the thigh of one leg. I asked about his wound and he told me a story correspondent Ernie Pyle would have loved.
Peppy's unit was in the Black Forest when he was hit by machine gun fire. An American medic put on a tourniquet and Peppy passed out. He regained consciousness to see a German soldier loosening his tourniquet and then he fainted again. When he regained consciousness he realized he was on a cart and he heard voices speaking German. He thought he was a prisoner.
Then a voice asked, "How we doing here?" He opened his eyes to find he was in an American
forward hospital unit and the patients next to him were captured German soldiers.
I saw a sign today that read, "We live in the land of the free because of the brave." Thanks "Peppy" and all who have answered the call to serve.
In 1947 I was an apprentice on the waterfront at a boy scout camp and my tent mate was Malcolm "Peppy" Daniels, a disabled vet, who was the camp chef that summer. I noticed when we were changing to go swmming a long scar with six indentations in the thigh of one leg. I asked about his wound and he told me a story correspondent Ernie Pyle would have loved.
Peppy's unit was in the Black Forest when he was hit by machine gun fire. An American medic put on a tourniquet and Peppy passed out. He regained consciousness to see a German soldier loosening his tourniquet and then he fainted again. When he regained consciousness he realized he was on a cart and he heard voices speaking German. He thought he was a prisoner.
Then a voice asked, "How we doing here?" He opened his eyes to find he was in an American
forward hospital unit and the patients next to him were captured German soldiers.
I saw a sign today that read, "We live in the land of the free because of the brave." Thanks "Peppy" and all who have answered the call to serve.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Coming Up Short
November 10
“I need a little change for food, “he asks?
“I don’t have any change but I have a dollar,” which I hand him.
“Thanks,” he says, “a hotdog costs $1.49. Do you have fifty cents?”
I bristle. “That’s it, I told you I didn’t have any change,” I say, knowing I have another dollar in my pocket.
He hurries off. I have given to the poor but not cheerfully. “God loves a cheerful giver.”
( 2 Corinthians 9:7)
I return to my Bible lying on the park bench and read:
“Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)
“I need a little change for food, “he asks?
“I don’t have any change but I have a dollar,” which I hand him.
“Thanks,” he says, “a hotdog costs $1.49. Do you have fifty cents?”
I bristle. “That’s it, I told you I didn’t have any change,” I say, knowing I have another dollar in my pocket.
He hurries off. I have given to the poor but not cheerfully. “God loves a cheerful giver.”
( 2 Corinthians 9:7)
I return to my Bible lying on the park bench and read:
“Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)
Pathways
November 9
The preacher listed different pathways people take to feel close to God:
1. Relational…with other people
2. Contemplative- solitude ( my wife Joy's path)
3. Serving- feel closest when serving
4. Creation- feel God through nature
5. Intellectual-reading/study (mine)
6. Activist-the action people, leaders,
7. Worship- feel closest when worshiping (singing)
How/ when do you feel closest to God?
An appropriate Biblical verse for my pathway is:
“Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)
The preacher listed different pathways people take to feel close to God:
1. Relational…with other people
2. Contemplative- solitude ( my wife Joy's path)
3. Serving- feel closest when serving
4. Creation- feel God through nature
5. Intellectual-reading/study (mine)
6. Activist-the action people, leaders,
7. Worship- feel closest when worshiping (singing)
How/ when do you feel closest to God?
An appropriate Biblical verse for my pathway is:
“Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Fruit Trees
November 8
When I was growing up in Rhode Island there was a small pear tree and a large apple tree in our yard. All we had to do was pick and enjoy the fruit at the end of the summer and rake the leaves at the end of the fall. God did all the rest.
Our family, friends and neighbors enjoyed plenty of tasty fruit throughout our eighteen years there. It wasn’t until long after we moved that I really appreciated the bounty from those trees. I wonder what kind of fruit I'm producing. How about you?
“Others fell on good ground and yielded a crop of a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears let him hear.” (Matthew 13:8-9)
When I was growing up in Rhode Island there was a small pear tree and a large apple tree in our yard. All we had to do was pick and enjoy the fruit at the end of the summer and rake the leaves at the end of the fall. God did all the rest.
Our family, friends and neighbors enjoyed plenty of tasty fruit throughout our eighteen years there. It wasn’t until long after we moved that I really appreciated the bounty from those trees. I wonder what kind of fruit I'm producing. How about you?
“Others fell on good ground and yielded a crop of a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears let him hear.” (Matthew 13:8-9)
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
What is the meaning of life?
November 7
What is the meaning of life? Isn’t this the question of man down through the ages?
A local camera crew went to the person in the street to find out. Some quotes: “The meaning of life is to have fun and love others.” “Avoid Death!” “Sex” “Darn if I know.” “Take care of Mother Earth.” "Get all you can." "Take care of number one."
Jesus answered the question this way: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind. This is the first commandment. The second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew (22:37-40)
What is the meaning of life? Isn’t this the question of man down through the ages?
A local camera crew went to the person in the street to find out. Some quotes: “The meaning of life is to have fun and love others.” “Avoid Death!” “Sex” “Darn if I know.” “Take care of Mother Earth.” "Get all you can." "Take care of number one."
Jesus answered the question this way: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind. This is the first commandment. The second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew (22:37-40)
Monday, November 5, 2007
Election Day-Your Vote Counts
November 6
The election for U.S. President in 2000 was so close we didn’t know who won for 35 days. Bush was finally declared the winner after many recounts in Florida. His margin of victory in Florida turned out to be less than one vote per precinct. Who says a vote doesn’t count.
A wise minister told me, “Think of your salvation as an election. There are three eligible voters. God has one vote and will always vote yes for your salvation. The Devil has one vote and will always vote no. You have the deciding vote.”
Have you voted?
“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32)
The election for U.S. President in 2000 was so close we didn’t know who won for 35 days. Bush was finally declared the winner after many recounts in Florida. His margin of victory in Florida turned out to be less than one vote per precinct. Who says a vote doesn’t count.
A wise minister told me, “Think of your salvation as an election. There are three eligible voters. God has one vote and will always vote yes for your salvation. The Devil has one vote and will always vote no. You have the deciding vote.”
Have you voted?
“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32)
Name and Address
November 5
Joy and I join others at the front of the church. The visiting preacher and the regular senior minister hand out 3x5 cards and pencils and asks each of us to print our name and address. We all pray together. The ministers vow to pray for each of us by name everyday for a month. They ask us to pray for them daily. We say we will. The cards are placed on a table at the foot of a small wooden cross.
God doesn’t need our names and addresses God knows who we are and where to find us.
The cross is there so we can find God.
"Come take up the cross, and follow Me." (Mark 10:21)
Joy and I join others at the front of the church. The visiting preacher and the regular senior minister hand out 3x5 cards and pencils and asks each of us to print our name and address. We all pray together. The ministers vow to pray for each of us by name everyday for a month. They ask us to pray for them daily. We say we will. The cards are placed on a table at the foot of a small wooden cross.
God doesn’t need our names and addresses God knows who we are and where to find us.
The cross is there so we can find God.
"Come take up the cross, and follow Me." (Mark 10:21)
Sunday, November 4, 2007
A Question for God
November 4
Today Joy leaves our Florida home to spend a week with her bedridden mom and her 83-year-old step dad in New Jersey. Joy's little sister who lives near their mom left todaywith her husband for a week in Disney.
Joy was hesitant about going up as we had visited her mom three weeks earlier, but since then Mom has fallen, been in the hospital and is now in bed. On Friday, I suggested if she wanted to go it was ok with me. "I'll pray about it." Saturday morning she says, "Im going...I prayed, opened my Bible and there was 1Peter 4:7-10.
" The end of all things is near therefore....keep fervent for your love for one another for love covers a multitude of sins...be hospitable without complaint. As each one has received a special gift (Joy is a care giver) employ it in serving another as good stewards of God's grace."
Today Joy leaves our Florida home to spend a week with her bedridden mom and her 83-year-old step dad in New Jersey. Joy's little sister who lives near their mom left todaywith her husband for a week in Disney.
Joy was hesitant about going up as we had visited her mom three weeks earlier, but since then Mom has fallen, been in the hospital and is now in bed. On Friday, I suggested if she wanted to go it was ok with me. "I'll pray about it." Saturday morning she says, "Im going...I prayed, opened my Bible and there was 1Peter 4:7-10.
" The end of all things is near therefore....keep fervent for your love for one another for love covers a multitude of sins...be hospitable without complaint. As each one has received a special gift (Joy is a care giver) employ it in serving another as good stewards of God's grace."
Friday, November 2, 2007
Give It Away
November 3
He has been stuck since his last operation. He is on disability, is ending rehab and is totally depressed. I pray for guidance.
Over lunch he says, “I’m challenged physically but I’m ok mentally and spiritually.”
“You are not OK!” I retort. “ You are caught up in your pain and fears and it is consuming you.”
He stares at me. The silence that follows screams at me. Finally he says reflectively, " You just crossed a line... but I'm glad we had lunch together. What you are saying is that I have been given the Grace but I’m keeping it to myself. I need to give it away.” I nod. We stand and hug.
“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be witnesses to Me.” (Acts 1:8)
He has been stuck since his last operation. He is on disability, is ending rehab and is totally depressed. I pray for guidance.
Over lunch he says, “I’m challenged physically but I’m ok mentally and spiritually.”
“You are not OK!” I retort. “ You are caught up in your pain and fears and it is consuming you.”
He stares at me. The silence that follows screams at me. Finally he says reflectively, " You just crossed a line... but I'm glad we had lunch together. What you are saying is that I have been given the Grace but I’m keeping it to myself. I need to give it away.” I nod. We stand and hug.
“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be witnesses to Me.” (Acts 1:8)
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Pefect Gentleman
November 2
He is a perfect gentleman,” my wife says. “He is gentle, patient and kind. When I make a mistake he doesn’t throw it in my face. He lets me be me. That is a real gentleman.”
“How can anyone who demands things be done his way be a perfect gentleman?”
“You don’t understand me but he does,” Joy retorts. I’m feeling totally inadequate now. “I try to be a gentleman,” I suggest.
“You are.” she says softly, “But you are not a perfect gentleman-- only God is a perfect gentleman.”
“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” (2 Samuel 22:31)
He is a perfect gentleman,” my wife says. “He is gentle, patient and kind. When I make a mistake he doesn’t throw it in my face. He lets me be me. That is a real gentleman.”
“How can anyone who demands things be done his way be a perfect gentleman?”
“You don’t understand me but he does,” Joy retorts. I’m feeling totally inadequate now. “I try to be a gentleman,” I suggest.
“You are.” she says softly, “But you are not a perfect gentleman-- only God is a perfect gentleman.”
“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” (2 Samuel 22:31)
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