Question
I love being bi-vocational because I feel that God is using me here at Dollar Tree. A co-worker sent me a cool question about sometime about a Futurama episode and the theme of it. Below is the theme from the website “Wikipedia” and it’s write up regarding “Hell Is Other Roberts” and my answer.
Wikipedia:
“This episode is one of very few that focuses on the religious aspects of the Futurama universe. In most episodes, it is indicated that the Planet Express crew, along with most beings in the year 3000, are "remarkably unreligious". It introduces two of the three religious figures of Futurama, The Robot Devil and Reverend Lionel Preacherbot, both of whom make appearances in future episodes. Preacherbot, who speaks in a manner typical of inner-city African-American pastor stereotypes, converts Bender to the religion Robotology. This leads to a series of events that are similar in many ways to the experiences of real world religious converts. Mark Pinsky states that the episode has a "double-edged portrayal of religion" as it portrays both an improvement in Bender's character but also some of the "less pleasant characteristics of the newly pious". The Robot Devil is introduced after Bender's fall back into sin. While explaining to Bender his claim on his soul, he uses logic similar to that used by many Southern Baptists. By the end of the episode Bender has returned to his old ways and states that he will no longer try to be either too good or too bad, a parody and contradiction of the Book of Revelation statement that one should not be lukewarm in their faith.”
My reply to my co-worker:
Wow, my first thought is that Rich has too much time on his hands and he thinks to hard ; - ). Just kidding. I will try to explain (in a nutshell) what I think the Robot Devil tells Bender. I’ll have Bible passages accompanying my answer because I don’t want you to think I’m giving the SBC bylines, but I’m giving you what scripture says. First of all, I can’t remember what he told Bender in the episode (I just remember him when Fry got new hands to play an instrument to win Leela’s heart) but by reading the “Theme” section, below is my answer.
“While explaining to Bender his claim on his soul, he uses logic similar to that used by many Southern Baptists.” – According to Romans 5:12 (“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned (NASV)”) when Adam sinned against God, mankind stopped being the children of God and became “children of wraith.” Because of this sin, God kicked Adam and Eve out of the garden and because of this sin a great separation occurred.
Even though we (mankind) no longer are God’s children, He made a way for us to reconnect with Him. This way is (as you) Jesus Christ. John 3:16 ("For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.(NASV)”) shows us if a person accepts Jesus to be Lord of his life he has eternal salvation. I know you know that Futurama is a cartoon and robots don’t have souls but the whole idea of Bender finding “Religion” and then going back to how he was before and the Devil still has ownership of his soul alludes to the idea that salvation isn’t forever and that you can loss it. I can give you a ton of scripture passages that affirm that salvation is forever and that you can not loss it; John 3:16 is just one.
Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ and not a “religion.” The key word for religion is “DO”; what must I “DO” to earn salvation, enlightenment, and/or heaven. The key word for Christianity is “DONE”; what Jesus has “DONE” on the cross satisfies the payment for eternal life and there is nothing we can do to earn it other than accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
I can go on and one but I hope I answered your question. I’m always available if you and/or Rich want to talk further. I love doing coffee and talking if you want to after work sometime soon; Rich, you, and me.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Sunday’s Report
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to preach at Living Proof Baptist Church in Williamsburg, VA. Teresa and I had a good time with this church. I wanted share what God did through us. The main goal I set for this adventure was one, bring honor to God and two, encourage the members of this church.
Let me share a little history about this church before I share our adventure story. LPBC was started in 2001. The church has been meeting in a former Christian school for the last 2 years (I believe they own the property). The founding pastor needed a rest from ministry due the health issues of his wife. They moved to be with his sending church in FL in October. LPBC has been without a pastor for a month, but have been developing a search for a new pastor. The founding pastor left this body very healthy and well equipped to reach their community. The leadership loves the Lord and is very capable men.
Living Proof is 50 miles from our house (in Portsmouth) and according to TomTom the trip took us 56 minutes. We arrived at 10:40 and were greeted by a sweet young lady holding a 3 month old baby who did nothing but smile (very cute). The young lady showed us to the sanctuary (a gym) and we talked with her until their Sunday School glasses let out. She handed us over to Delon; the media guy and the one I’ve traded e-mails with. After getting the Power Point and video ready, I talked with members who came up to us. This church was very warm and friendly (even before they knew who I was and better yet even after they met me).
I preached on “What is Truth?” using John 14:6 ("I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”). I preached for 45 minutes, and had two men come down and prayer at the foot of the stage. I was told later that one of the church’s small groups has been studying this very subject and that the leader was impressed how I dealt with the subject so thoroughly in a short about of time.
Teresa and I were taken out for lunch by Mr. and Mrs. Curtis at Second Street Bistro (if you are ever in Williamsburg check this place out). We had good food and great fellowship. Mr. Curtis is retired from TWA Airlines and moved here from Las Vegas (after living there for over 25 years) and enjoys history. We had a good time talking history and other things. We had a great time and I feel God was honored and the church body was encouraged.
I let the church’s leadership know if they needed me again, I’d love to return. I shared this with Don Cockes (SBCV Church Enrichment Missionary). Please keep Living Proof Baptist Church in your prayers. They are looking for an Interim Pastor for now but would like a pastor in place within a year.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to preach at Living Proof Baptist Church in Williamsburg, VA. Teresa and I had a good time with this church. I wanted share what God did through us. The main goal I set for this adventure was one, bring honor to God and two, encourage the members of this church.
Let me share a little history about this church before I share our adventure story. LPBC was started in 2001. The church has been meeting in a former Christian school for the last 2 years (I believe they own the property). The founding pastor needed a rest from ministry due the health issues of his wife. They moved to be with his sending church in FL in October. LPBC has been without a pastor for a month, but have been developing a search for a new pastor. The founding pastor left this body very healthy and well equipped to reach their community. The leadership loves the Lord and is very capable men.
Living Proof is 50 miles from our house (in Portsmouth) and according to TomTom the trip took us 56 minutes. We arrived at 10:40 and were greeted by a sweet young lady holding a 3 month old baby who did nothing but smile (very cute). The young lady showed us to the sanctuary (a gym) and we talked with her until their Sunday School glasses let out. She handed us over to Delon; the media guy and the one I’ve traded e-mails with. After getting the Power Point and video ready, I talked with members who came up to us. This church was very warm and friendly (even before they knew who I was and better yet even after they met me).
I preached on “What is Truth?” using John 14:6 ("I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”). I preached for 45 minutes, and had two men come down and prayer at the foot of the stage. I was told later that one of the church’s small groups has been studying this very subject and that the leader was impressed how I dealt with the subject so thoroughly in a short about of time.
Teresa and I were taken out for lunch by Mr. and Mrs. Curtis at Second Street Bistro (if you are ever in Williamsburg check this place out). We had good food and great fellowship. Mr. Curtis is retired from TWA Airlines and moved here from Las Vegas (after living there for over 25 years) and enjoys history. We had a good time talking history and other things. We had a great time and I feel God was honored and the church body was encouraged.
I let the church’s leadership know if they needed me again, I’d love to return. I shared this with Don Cockes (SBCV Church Enrichment Missionary). Please keep Living Proof Baptist Church in your prayers. They are looking for an Interim Pastor for now but would like a pastor in place within a year.
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Great Unknowns of Life
With what is happening with the U.S. economy, I’m sure most people are afraid of the uncertainty of the situation. I’m sure if you think about it, you know someone who has been affected by it; maybe you. Your 401K portfolio maybe isn’t as rich as it was just 6 months ago. My 401K plan is worth $5,000 less than last quarter. When Teresa told me that, my reaction was, “Oh, OK.” Our family has been affected by this economic situation because Teresa was laid-off from her job. She has a great severance package which includes 6 months pay (not everyone got that who was laid-off). God is providing for us. If you have been paying attention to the news the last week and the 3 auto companies asking for money from Congress, you know that the possibility of more people will be affected by the issues with the economy. My dad is retired from one of these companies so he is watching this closely. The outcome can affect him and mom’s financially well being. Even with this going on, I can safely say, God is good and He is in control.
The reason I can say this is because of who my foundation is resting on. According to Matthew 7:24-26, when the storms of life come (and these storms come) I’m secure because my life is established on The True Rock (Jesus Christ). This foundation is the strongest a person can have. Another promise we have is that we are not alone when the uncertainty comes out way. The last part of the Great Commission is “I am with you always, even to the end of the [church] age (Matthew 28:20b)." We are never alone when we walk through this life. As a child of the Most High, we are taken care of. My sister’s, Wanda, favorite poem is “Foot Prints in the Sand.” In short, the poem lets us know that when live is good, Jesus is walking beside us and when life gets rough, Jesus carries us through the hardship and heartache that life can throw our way.
Life can be hard. In fact, Jesus never said that life will be easy; even for the Christian. The greatest part of being a child of God is that we don’t go through the hardships alone. The children of this world deal with the hardships of life alone. We may not be able to see around the corner of life, but we know the One who can see all things. He sees what we cannot see, and He knows that outcome. In this uncertain time in America, trust in the unchangeableness of God and rest on His promises. He will never fail you.
With what is happening with the U.S. economy, I’m sure most people are afraid of the uncertainty of the situation. I’m sure if you think about it, you know someone who has been affected by it; maybe you. Your 401K portfolio maybe isn’t as rich as it was just 6 months ago. My 401K plan is worth $5,000 less than last quarter. When Teresa told me that, my reaction was, “Oh, OK.” Our family has been affected by this economic situation because Teresa was laid-off from her job. She has a great severance package which includes 6 months pay (not everyone got that who was laid-off). God is providing for us. If you have been paying attention to the news the last week and the 3 auto companies asking for money from Congress, you know that the possibility of more people will be affected by the issues with the economy. My dad is retired from one of these companies so he is watching this closely. The outcome can affect him and mom’s financially well being. Even with this going on, I can safely say, God is good and He is in control.
The reason I can say this is because of who my foundation is resting on. According to Matthew 7:24-26, when the storms of life come (and these storms come) I’m secure because my life is established on The True Rock (Jesus Christ). This foundation is the strongest a person can have. Another promise we have is that we are not alone when the uncertainty comes out way. The last part of the Great Commission is “I am with you always, even to the end of the [church] age (Matthew 28:20b)." We are never alone when we walk through this life. As a child of the Most High, we are taken care of. My sister’s, Wanda, favorite poem is “Foot Prints in the Sand.” In short, the poem lets us know that when live is good, Jesus is walking beside us and when life gets rough, Jesus carries us through the hardship and heartache that life can throw our way.
Life can be hard. In fact, Jesus never said that life will be easy; even for the Christian. The greatest part of being a child of God is that we don’t go through the hardships alone. The children of this world deal with the hardships of life alone. We may not be able to see around the corner of life, but we know the One who can see all things. He sees what we cannot see, and He knows that outcome. In this uncertain time in America, trust in the unchangeableness of God and rest on His promises. He will never fail you.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Being Focused
I really enjoy exercising. I’m sure some people hate to exercise and if they do exercise, it’s not fun for them; I really enjoy exercising. Some people tend to focus on their bodies and rhythm while working out. I have to admit, I have to focus on my body parts when I’m doing weight training, but I don’t focus on me when I’m cycling, running, and/or swimming.
When I’m doing the stationary bike, I’m reading. I’m usually reading a book on church, a Biblical subject, or a book on God so I’m focused on learning something so I can use to honor God. When I run, I’m focused on the environment and seeing the awesomeness of creation; again, focusing on God. When I swim, I think about breathing right but most of the time my mind wonders as I do lap after lap after lap. My mind tends to wonder on the tasks I’m doing or dream of doing to honor God.
Focusing on God really makes me truly focused on the right things. Thinking about fun and other things that will make me happy is not bad as long as it’s not always about me. We are put here to bring God honor and glory. Try not focusing on you and try keeping the focus on God. He deserves out focus.
I really enjoy exercising. I’m sure some people hate to exercise and if they do exercise, it’s not fun for them; I really enjoy exercising. Some people tend to focus on their bodies and rhythm while working out. I have to admit, I have to focus on my body parts when I’m doing weight training, but I don’t focus on me when I’m cycling, running, and/or swimming.
When I’m doing the stationary bike, I’m reading. I’m usually reading a book on church, a Biblical subject, or a book on God so I’m focused on learning something so I can use to honor God. When I run, I’m focused on the environment and seeing the awesomeness of creation; again, focusing on God. When I swim, I think about breathing right but most of the time my mind wonders as I do lap after lap after lap. My mind tends to wonder on the tasks I’m doing or dream of doing to honor God.
Focusing on God really makes me truly focused on the right things. Thinking about fun and other things that will make me happy is not bad as long as it’s not always about me. We are put here to bring God honor and glory. Try not focusing on you and try keeping the focus on God. He deserves out focus.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Not Characters, But People Like Us
There is a phrase I learned from one of my college professors, “Let’s put flesh and blood on these people.” The “these people” are the people in the Bible. Over the centuries, these people in the Bible have gone from being flesh and blood people to “characters.” Most of the time, when a preacher refers to a person the Bible, they are referred to them as Bible or Biblical characters. We’ve done a disservice to Christianity by doing this because newer Christians view them as being bigger than life like comic book superheroes. The reality is that these people were just people who God used. The awesome part of the Bible is that God has been everything in it; the good, the bad, and ugly about the people He used.
I teach that we have the whole truth about the people in the Bible so we can see how people just like us were used. David is called the man after God’s own heart even thought he was an adulterer and murderer. Gilead was caught hiding in a cave when God wanted to use him in Judges to free Israel. The disciples were nothing more than a motley crew of misfits when Jesus chose them. For the most part, we remember these people at the end of their lives and forget how they were at the beginning of their journey when God/Jesus Christ chose to use them.
Today in the men’s Bible group, this truth was lost to one our men. He’s a newer believer who is having a bad time. I could tell how he was talking that his views of the people in the Bible were as I wrote in the first paragraph. How could he struggle with all he is struggling with if he is a child of God; the falling in sin. I shared with him what Paul wrote in one of his letters; “I do what I shouldn’t do, and don’t do what I should be doing (paraphrasing).” The great St. Paul struggled with his walk just us normal folk do? I shared with this young man that we will never “arrive” (or be perfect) this side of heaven. The Holy Spirit helps us grow stronger in our walk as we feed our spirit but there will be times where we will fail. That’s the awesomeness of God; His grace.
Remember before you beat yourself up over being human and failing, the people in the Bible were human just like us. There not characters; there people just like you and me.
There is a phrase I learned from one of my college professors, “Let’s put flesh and blood on these people.” The “these people” are the people in the Bible. Over the centuries, these people in the Bible have gone from being flesh and blood people to “characters.” Most of the time, when a preacher refers to a person the Bible, they are referred to them as Bible or Biblical characters. We’ve done a disservice to Christianity by doing this because newer Christians view them as being bigger than life like comic book superheroes. The reality is that these people were just people who God used. The awesome part of the Bible is that God has been everything in it; the good, the bad, and ugly about the people He used.
I teach that we have the whole truth about the people in the Bible so we can see how people just like us were used. David is called the man after God’s own heart even thought he was an adulterer and murderer. Gilead was caught hiding in a cave when God wanted to use him in Judges to free Israel. The disciples were nothing more than a motley crew of misfits when Jesus chose them. For the most part, we remember these people at the end of their lives and forget how they were at the beginning of their journey when God/Jesus Christ chose to use them.
Today in the men’s Bible group, this truth was lost to one our men. He’s a newer believer who is having a bad time. I could tell how he was talking that his views of the people in the Bible were as I wrote in the first paragraph. How could he struggle with all he is struggling with if he is a child of God; the falling in sin. I shared with him what Paul wrote in one of his letters; “I do what I shouldn’t do, and don’t do what I should be doing (paraphrasing).” The great St. Paul struggled with his walk just us normal folk do? I shared with this young man that we will never “arrive” (or be perfect) this side of heaven. The Holy Spirit helps us grow stronger in our walk as we feed our spirit but there will be times where we will fail. That’s the awesomeness of God; His grace.
Remember before you beat yourself up over being human and failing, the people in the Bible were human just like us. There not characters; there people just like you and me.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Awesomeness of God
I enjoy reading through the books of Psalms and Proverbs. I would say that I read through them at least once a year. I always seem to see something new when I read them. That should be no brainer since the Bible is a living source of knowledge from God the Father. The other day I posted about how some songs can get me to engage with God at the drop of a hat, and I mentioned one (“Praise You With The Dance”).
This morning as I was reading in Psalms, I came across Psalm 30 and a lot of the language of this passage made me start singing “Praise You With The Dance.” I wonder if Mark Hall used this Psalm as a starting point for this song.
Even though Teresa has been laid-off her job, I will praise and worship my God. He has seen me through a lot more than this and I trust Him completely. Teresa trusts Him to be faithful and has no worries. We have an awesome and loving God who is much more than words can describe. When I think about the majesty of God, my mind channels Wayne’s World and I yell “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy!” But the must awesome part of this is that God through His love and sacrifice (in the form of Jesus Christ) has made me worthy. It’s just awesome!
Below is the Psalm that sparked these thoughts; Psalm 30.
1 I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my enemies rejoice over me.
2 O LORD my God,
I cried to You for help, and You healed me.
3 O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol;
You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit.
4 Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones,
And give thanks to His holy name.
5 For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for a lifetime;
Weeping may last for the night,
But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
6 Now as for me, I said in my prosperity,
"I will never be moved."
7 O LORD, by Your favor You have made my mountain to stand strong;
You hid Your face, I was dismayed.
8 To You, O LORD, I called,
And to the Lord I made supplication:
9"What profit is there in my blood, if I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your faithfulness?
10 "Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me;
O LORD, be my helper."
11You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness,
12That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent
O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
I enjoy reading through the books of Psalms and Proverbs. I would say that I read through them at least once a year. I always seem to see something new when I read them. That should be no brainer since the Bible is a living source of knowledge from God the Father. The other day I posted about how some songs can get me to engage with God at the drop of a hat, and I mentioned one (“Praise You With The Dance”).
This morning as I was reading in Psalms, I came across Psalm 30 and a lot of the language of this passage made me start singing “Praise You With The Dance.” I wonder if Mark Hall used this Psalm as a starting point for this song.
Even though Teresa has been laid-off her job, I will praise and worship my God. He has seen me through a lot more than this and I trust Him completely. Teresa trusts Him to be faithful and has no worries. We have an awesome and loving God who is much more than words can describe. When I think about the majesty of God, my mind channels Wayne’s World and I yell “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy!” But the must awesome part of this is that God through His love and sacrifice (in the form of Jesus Christ) has made me worthy. It’s just awesome!
Below is the Psalm that sparked these thoughts; Psalm 30.
1 I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my enemies rejoice over me.
2 O LORD my God,
I cried to You for help, and You healed me.
3 O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol;
You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit.
4 Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones,
And give thanks to His holy name.
5 For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for a lifetime;
Weeping may last for the night,
But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
6 Now as for me, I said in my prosperity,
"I will never be moved."
7 O LORD, by Your favor You have made my mountain to stand strong;
You hid Your face, I was dismayed.
8 To You, O LORD, I called,
And to the Lord I made supplication:
9"What profit is there in my blood, if I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your faithfulness?
10 "Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me;
O LORD, be my helper."
11You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness,
12That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent
O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
God's Man
I just talked with a young man who God has given me the honor to mentor over the last 7 years. In order for you to understand the excitement I have in writing about our conversation, I want to give a little background.
Rick and his wife were in the Navy (he still is) when they came to Point Harbor Community Church in 2000. Both were not saved and just married with a child on the way so they wanted to check out the church. Shortly after, they got saved. Rick jumped in with the sports ministry and helped me with the men’s ministry. He was young and eager to learn. While I walked with him and encouraged him to read his Bible, I saw that God wanted to use him more. Rick started helping the youth pastor the last year before he was transferred. Satan tried to discourage him through some of the members of the church but I lifted him up and encouraged him.
God moved Rick to Spain to do security for a Navy base there for 2 years. His wife and now 3 kids could not come because the youngest son had health issues. I knew Satan would target Rick being so far away from home and his family. I prayed for him and sent him care packages (music CDs, cookies, youth ministry books, etc.). He told me that he started working with the youth whose parents were stationed at the base. God was blessing the ministry. A year in his time in Spain, I sensed something wrong and saw on his MySpace page he listed his status as single (instead of married). I questioned him about it and he was planning on ending his marriage because of non-Biblical reasons. I held him accountable (with love) and told him he was wrong and needed to get back with his wife. It was tough but he did it and now they are strong in their marriage and both serving the Lord in Jacksonville, FL. Rick is now a small arms instructor at a nearby base.
Now back the conversation we had; Rick as been asked to be a youth pastor of a small church near Jacksonville. He can do his Navy job and minister with the teens. He and his wife are excited about this possibility. I’m excited to see God doing His thing with this now 32 year old man who I’ve had the honor of knowing and seeing grow. Keep Rick and Kristine in your prayers (and their 3 children). May God use Rick greatly in this new direction.
I just talked with a young man who God has given me the honor to mentor over the last 7 years. In order for you to understand the excitement I have in writing about our conversation, I want to give a little background.
Rick and his wife were in the Navy (he still is) when they came to Point Harbor Community Church in 2000. Both were not saved and just married with a child on the way so they wanted to check out the church. Shortly after, they got saved. Rick jumped in with the sports ministry and helped me with the men’s ministry. He was young and eager to learn. While I walked with him and encouraged him to read his Bible, I saw that God wanted to use him more. Rick started helping the youth pastor the last year before he was transferred. Satan tried to discourage him through some of the members of the church but I lifted him up and encouraged him.
God moved Rick to Spain to do security for a Navy base there for 2 years. His wife and now 3 kids could not come because the youngest son had health issues. I knew Satan would target Rick being so far away from home and his family. I prayed for him and sent him care packages (music CDs, cookies, youth ministry books, etc.). He told me that he started working with the youth whose parents were stationed at the base. God was blessing the ministry. A year in his time in Spain, I sensed something wrong and saw on his MySpace page he listed his status as single (instead of married). I questioned him about it and he was planning on ending his marriage because of non-Biblical reasons. I held him accountable (with love) and told him he was wrong and needed to get back with his wife. It was tough but he did it and now they are strong in their marriage and both serving the Lord in Jacksonville, FL. Rick is now a small arms instructor at a nearby base.
Now back the conversation we had; Rick as been asked to be a youth pastor of a small church near Jacksonville. He can do his Navy job and minister with the teens. He and his wife are excited about this possibility. I’m excited to see God doing His thing with this now 32 year old man who I’ve had the honor of knowing and seeing grow. Keep Rick and Kristine in your prayers (and their 3 children). May God use Rick greatly in this new direction.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Not just a number
With the news telling us that our country is hurting economically, we never think it will affect us. Today I got a call from my wife with the news that she has been laid-off. She has been looking for a new job for 4 months now and working under very stressful conditions but this news was still a surprise. Even though the package the company gave her is a very good (6months pay, medical benefits, and help finding a new job) this can be scary if it wasn’t the fact we have God and the assurance that He will take care of us. We trust that He will open doors for Teresa to have a new job.
With the news telling us that our country is hurting economically, we never think it will affect us. Today I got a call from my wife with the news that she has been laid-off. She has been looking for a new job for 4 months now and working under very stressful conditions but this news was still a surprise. Even though the package the company gave her is a very good (6months pay, medical benefits, and help finding a new job) this can be scary if it wasn’t the fact we have God and the assurance that He will take care of us. We trust that He will open doors for Teresa to have a new job.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Worship
The other day, I was home alone and working on answering a questionnaire a church’s pulpit committee sent me and I put in a Casting Crowns CD. I really enjoy listening to this group and since I read Mark Hall’s (lead singer) book “Lifestories: Finding God's "Voice of Truth" Through Everyday Life” I enjoy them a little more knowing the stories behind their songs. While the music played in the background, I read and answered the questions on my laptop (love WiFi), and then the song “Praise You With The Dance” came on. I started singing along and before I knew it the Holy Spirit manifested Himself. [I believe that since God is omni-present He is with us at all times, but it’s not until we engage Him we can sense His presence.] I went from just singing along to engaging God in worship. I had to just stop what I was doing and worship the God of universe. It was an awesome experience. I sat back in my chair with tears rolling down my cheeks and raised my arms in adoration to my Savior. Some songs can engage me at the drop of a hat and “Praise You With The Dance” is one of them. See below for the words of this song.
Praise You With The Dance
I will sing to the Lord
And I will lift my voice
For You have heard my cry
I will sing to the Lord
And I will lift my hands
For You have brought me out of the pit
For You have brought me out of the pit
And I'll sing glory, hallelujah
I lift Your name on high
And I'll sing holy, 'cause You're worthy
I'll praise You with the dance
The other day, I was home alone and working on answering a questionnaire a church’s pulpit committee sent me and I put in a Casting Crowns CD. I really enjoy listening to this group and since I read Mark Hall’s (lead singer) book “Lifestories: Finding God's "Voice of Truth" Through Everyday Life” I enjoy them a little more knowing the stories behind their songs. While the music played in the background, I read and answered the questions on my laptop (love WiFi), and then the song “Praise You With The Dance” came on. I started singing along and before I knew it the Holy Spirit manifested Himself. [I believe that since God is omni-present He is with us at all times, but it’s not until we engage Him we can sense His presence.] I went from just singing along to engaging God in worship. I had to just stop what I was doing and worship the God of universe. It was an awesome experience. I sat back in my chair with tears rolling down my cheeks and raised my arms in adoration to my Savior. Some songs can engage me at the drop of a hat and “Praise You With The Dance” is one of them. See below for the words of this song.
Praise You With The Dance
I will sing to the Lord
And I will lift my voice
For You have heard my cry
I will sing to the Lord
And I will lift my hands
For You have brought me out of the pit
For You have brought me out of the pit
And I'll sing glory, hallelujah
I lift Your name on high
And I'll sing holy, 'cause You're worthy
I'll praise You with the dance
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Picking Up My Towel
This past Sunday, the men’s Bible group started our last section of the study we’ve been doing. The section is titled Picking up Your Towel. We discussed Matthew 20:27-29, and how we should put other people before ourselves. I’m looking forward to our further discussion on this topic this Sunday.
I concluded our group last Sunday by challenging the men to put people before them during their daily lives; to allow someone to get in front of them on the road or putting their wives’ or children’s needs before their own. Well this came back on me this morning.
I came down stairs to get coffee from our café. In my work place, we have a café with free (yes, I said free) coffee. When the coffee runs out, whoever is there should make the next pot. We have two 40 cup coffee pots so it takes awhile for the coffee to brew. The person in front of me has just started both pots so I stood there waiting. While I was waiting, two more people came up. In our office, there is an unwritten rule that whoever is in front should go first, but some of the higher ups skip from time to time. At first I was eying these two people wondering if they would try to skip and then Matthew 20:27 popped in my head.
The passage reminded me that I should put these people ahead of me. The coffee will still be there in 30 seconds. When the coffee finished brewing, I waved my hand out offering for the person to my right to go ahead of me. She look confused and then I said, “Ladies, first.” She looked at me and asked, “You’re willing to wait?” and then she got her cup of coffee. She never did say thank you, but that’s not why I made the offer. To the next person, I did the same thing and this lady said, “Thank you” and got her cup. I know it’s a little thing to let people go ahead of me for coffee, but it’s a start.
Jesus is God almighty, and He chose to leave His throne and come down in the form of a man. He didn’t come to be served, but to be a servant. The God of the universe washed 12 pairs of dirty feet (imagine what was on those feet). Jesus put other people’s needs before His own desires. He took this example all the way to the cross. Jesus took our place on the cross so we can have life everlasting. Putting others before ourselves is the least we can do in comparison to Jesus’ example. Allowing a person to get a cup of coffee before you or getting to a place 10 second later because you allowed a person to get in front of you on the road is little compared to what Christ did. Even if people don’t say thank you or give a thank you wave. Have you said “Thank you” to Jesus for putting our needs before His? Think about.
This past Sunday, the men’s Bible group started our last section of the study we’ve been doing. The section is titled Picking up Your Towel. We discussed Matthew 20:27-29, and how we should put other people before ourselves. I’m looking forward to our further discussion on this topic this Sunday.
I concluded our group last Sunday by challenging the men to put people before them during their daily lives; to allow someone to get in front of them on the road or putting their wives’ or children’s needs before their own. Well this came back on me this morning.
I came down stairs to get coffee from our café. In my work place, we have a café with free (yes, I said free) coffee. When the coffee runs out, whoever is there should make the next pot. We have two 40 cup coffee pots so it takes awhile for the coffee to brew. The person in front of me has just started both pots so I stood there waiting. While I was waiting, two more people came up. In our office, there is an unwritten rule that whoever is in front should go first, but some of the higher ups skip from time to time. At first I was eying these two people wondering if they would try to skip and then Matthew 20:27 popped in my head.
The passage reminded me that I should put these people ahead of me. The coffee will still be there in 30 seconds. When the coffee finished brewing, I waved my hand out offering for the person to my right to go ahead of me. She look confused and then I said, “Ladies, first.” She looked at me and asked, “You’re willing to wait?” and then she got her cup of coffee. She never did say thank you, but that’s not why I made the offer. To the next person, I did the same thing and this lady said, “Thank you” and got her cup. I know it’s a little thing to let people go ahead of me for coffee, but it’s a start.
Jesus is God almighty, and He chose to leave His throne and come down in the form of a man. He didn’t come to be served, but to be a servant. The God of the universe washed 12 pairs of dirty feet (imagine what was on those feet). Jesus put other people’s needs before His own desires. He took this example all the way to the cross. Jesus took our place on the cross so we can have life everlasting. Putting others before ourselves is the least we can do in comparison to Jesus’ example. Allowing a person to get a cup of coffee before you or getting to a place 10 second later because you allowed a person to get in front of you on the road is little compared to what Christ did. Even if people don’t say thank you or give a thank you wave. Have you said “Thank you” to Jesus for putting our needs before His? Think about.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Election Day
Today is Election Day and I voted for the people I feel can help our country the best. I waited for an hour to cast my vote. While standing the line holding my umbrella, I thought about my first election in 1988. I thought about the days leading to my 18th birthday. How I knew there were two things I wanted to do on my birthday; register for the draft and register to vote. After finishing school, I went to the post office and registered for the draft and then I went to the local library and filled out the voter registration form. In the family I grew up in, honoring our country is high up there second only to having a relationship with Jesus Christ and church attendance.
I can remember how proud my dad was when I showed him my temporary voter’s card and told him I registered for the draft. If it wasn’t for the fact God had called me into ministry at an early age and me heading off for Bible college right out of high school, I would have followed in my father’s and grandfather’s feet and join the military. We have a great country and many freedoms that other people long for.
As Christians in the U.S., we have the freedom to proclaim Christ anywhere we wish. We get tax write offs for obeying God and giving back a portion of our income to the church. I think we either don’t think or don’t care about how our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ are treated in other countries because we have it so good here in the U.S. The freedoms we have are because of the sacrifice of our forefathers and the men and women in our armed forces.
While driving into work after voting, I thanked God for the blessings He has given me and to our country. I prayed for His will be done with the outcome of today’s vote. Remember, God is the One who puts the leaders in their place of authority so God will put who He has planned in the oval office; good, bad, or indifferent. If you haven’t voted yet and are registered, go vote.
Today is Election Day and I voted for the people I feel can help our country the best. I waited for an hour to cast my vote. While standing the line holding my umbrella, I thought about my first election in 1988. I thought about the days leading to my 18th birthday. How I knew there were two things I wanted to do on my birthday; register for the draft and register to vote. After finishing school, I went to the post office and registered for the draft and then I went to the local library and filled out the voter registration form. In the family I grew up in, honoring our country is high up there second only to having a relationship with Jesus Christ and church attendance.
I can remember how proud my dad was when I showed him my temporary voter’s card and told him I registered for the draft. If it wasn’t for the fact God had called me into ministry at an early age and me heading off for Bible college right out of high school, I would have followed in my father’s and grandfather’s feet and join the military. We have a great country and many freedoms that other people long for.
As Christians in the U.S., we have the freedom to proclaim Christ anywhere we wish. We get tax write offs for obeying God and giving back a portion of our income to the church. I think we either don’t think or don’t care about how our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ are treated in other countries because we have it so good here in the U.S. The freedoms we have are because of the sacrifice of our forefathers and the men and women in our armed forces.
While driving into work after voting, I thanked God for the blessings He has given me and to our country. I prayed for His will be done with the outcome of today’s vote. Remember, God is the One who puts the leaders in their place of authority so God will put who He has planned in the oval office; good, bad, or indifferent. If you haven’t voted yet and are registered, go vote.
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Halloween Everyday
Friday was Halloween and this is the day people like to dress up and be someone or something different. I read somewhere that Halloween is the only day of the year people can be someone they want to be. Children dress up in who or what they dream to be (i.e. policeman, Batman, Wonder Woman, etc.). For some, Halloween is everyday because they always wear a mask.
In ancient Greece, the actors in the theaters held a pole that carried an enormous papier-mâché mask. These masks were always a caricature – an overdone, generalized, or idealized portrayal. We use the word hypocrite for those people who are not real. This word literally means one who wears a mask. People want to be accepted so they feel they can’t show who they really are to others. To be accepted, some people wear:
The “happy” mask
The “I’m very together” mask
The “I don’t care” mask
The “I’m the expert” mask
The “I have the answers” mask or
The “I am cool” mask
The world doesn’t have the monopoly on thinking they need to wear a mask to be accepted. We have church members who are living hell on earth and when asked by someone how they are doing, their reply is, “Fine, I’m just fine.” The word fine is Feelings Internalized Not Expressed. Church should be the one place, hurting people should know they can be who they truly are and know they will be accepted. The men in the men’s group I lead know that when I ask how they are, the word “fine” will not be accepted. The first 15 minutes of our time is laid aside so in depth discussions can take place in a safe environment.
Church should be a safe-haven for people to leave the masks off and be who they are. It’s scary but the body of Christ should be the one group you can be yourself.
Friday was Halloween and this is the day people like to dress up and be someone or something different. I read somewhere that Halloween is the only day of the year people can be someone they want to be. Children dress up in who or what they dream to be (i.e. policeman, Batman, Wonder Woman, etc.). For some, Halloween is everyday because they always wear a mask.
In ancient Greece, the actors in the theaters held a pole that carried an enormous papier-mâché mask. These masks were always a caricature – an overdone, generalized, or idealized portrayal. We use the word hypocrite for those people who are not real. This word literally means one who wears a mask. People want to be accepted so they feel they can’t show who they really are to others. To be accepted, some people wear:
The “happy” mask
The “I’m very together” mask
The “I don’t care” mask
The “I’m the expert” mask
The “I have the answers” mask or
The “I am cool” mask
The world doesn’t have the monopoly on thinking they need to wear a mask to be accepted. We have church members who are living hell on earth and when asked by someone how they are doing, their reply is, “Fine, I’m just fine.” The word fine is Feelings Internalized Not Expressed. Church should be the one place, hurting people should know they can be who they truly are and know they will be accepted. The men in the men’s group I lead know that when I ask how they are, the word “fine” will not be accepted. The first 15 minutes of our time is laid aside so in depth discussions can take place in a safe environment.
Church should be a safe-haven for people to leave the masks off and be who they are. It’s scary but the body of Christ should be the one group you can be yourself.
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