Wednesday, June 15, 2005
WE STILL HAVE A WAYS TO GO!
--Author Unknown
We have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways but narrower viewpoints.
We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy it less.
We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees, but less common sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts but more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry too quickly, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too seldom, watch TV too much and pray too little.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.
We talk too much, love too seldom and lie too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life; we've added years to life, not life to years.
We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbor. We've conquered outer space but not inner space; we've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul; we've split the atom, but not our prejudice; we write more, but learn less; plan more, but accomplish less.
We've learned to rush, but not to wait; we have higher incomes; but lower morals. We have more food but less appeasement; more acquaintances, but fewer friends; more effort but less success.
We build more computers to hold more information, but have less communication; we've become long on quantity but short on quality.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion; tall men and short character; steep profits and shallow relationships. These are times of domestic warfare; more leisure and less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition.
These are days of two incomes, but more divorces; of fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throw away morality, one-night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the show window, and nothing in the stockroom. Indeed there is a lot of truth in these remarks; think about it.. .read it again.
We have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways but narrower viewpoints.
We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy it less.
We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees, but less common sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts but more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry too quickly, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too seldom, watch TV too much and pray too little.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.
We talk too much, love too seldom and lie too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life; we've added years to life, not life to years.
We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbor. We've conquered outer space but not inner space; we've done larger things, but not better things.
We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul; we've split the atom, but not our prejudice; we write more, but learn less; plan more, but accomplish less.
We've learned to rush, but not to wait; we have higher incomes; but lower morals. We have more food but less appeasement; more acquaintances, but fewer friends; more effort but less success.
We build more computers to hold more information, but have less communication; we've become long on quantity but short on quality.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion; tall men and short character; steep profits and shallow relationships. These are times of domestic warfare; more leisure and less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition.
These are days of two incomes, but more divorces; of fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throw away morality, one-night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the show window, and nothing in the stockroom. Indeed there is a lot of truth in these remarks; think about it.. .read it again.
IN THE WRONG LANE
By Bob Perks
When the same thing happens to me over and over, I believe God is trying to tell me something.
Sometimes it's obvious. Like when a person from my past keeps coming to mind and I feel the need to call them. Or when my wife Marianne keeps putting the lawnmower behind my car so I can't leave without being reminded that the grass needs cutting.
Okay, maybe that's her and not God.
But lately I believe God's telling me to slow down.
Most people wouldn't see it that way, but I know how He works in my life.
Over the last several months I keep seeing people stuck on the side of the road. Some were changing tires, others standing with the hood of the car open apparently waiting for help.
Sometimes I'd first see an abandoned car and a few hundred yards down the road I'd see someone walking. I even saw a few men standing next to their car trying to "hitch hike" a ride.
Oh yes, there were a few females.
"Everyone has cell phones these days," you might say.
Many do. But they don't always work along roads where you'd need them most.
So, would you have stopped for any of them?
I would. I really wanted to help them all. So why didn't I?
I'll be honest about the ladies. I wanted desperately to help them. I think about my wife and worry that one day she'd need help. I also know how afraid she would be sitting there helplessly. An approaching car would be a welcome sign, but then, as a man got out she'd wonder if it was safe after all.
I would stop any way and try my best to assure them I'm there to help.
Then why didn't I?
The truth is, I was in the wrong lane.
Sounds like a poor excuse doesn't it?
But it's the truth and there lies my proof that God was trying to tell me something.
In every single case, I was always in the passing lane. I was always in a hurry to get somewhere. I was always zipping by people in order to get ahead.
Sadly, I was also passing up people who needed help.
"Slow down!" He said to me.
But it wasn't just on the highway.
Could it be that I have been in such a hurry that I have been passing by others along the road of life?
What about the neighbor across the street? She lives alone. There must be some way to help her.
I see another woman sitting on a bench at the mall every time I shop there. Maybe a friendly "Hello!" would make a difference.
The fire victims I just read about in the paper today lost everything. I felt sorry for them. Is there something I can do?
Or am I in such a hurry that I cannot stop?
God has been telling me something all this time.
Cut the grass and "Bob, you're "in the wrong lane!"
"I believe in you!"
Bob@BobPerks.com copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
When the same thing happens to me over and over, I believe God is trying to tell me something.
Sometimes it's obvious. Like when a person from my past keeps coming to mind and I feel the need to call them. Or when my wife Marianne keeps putting the lawnmower behind my car so I can't leave without being reminded that the grass needs cutting.
Okay, maybe that's her and not God.
But lately I believe God's telling me to slow down.
Most people wouldn't see it that way, but I know how He works in my life.
Over the last several months I keep seeing people stuck on the side of the road. Some were changing tires, others standing with the hood of the car open apparently waiting for help.
Sometimes I'd first see an abandoned car and a few hundred yards down the road I'd see someone walking. I even saw a few men standing next to their car trying to "hitch hike" a ride.
Oh yes, there were a few females.
"Everyone has cell phones these days," you might say.
Many do. But they don't always work along roads where you'd need them most.
So, would you have stopped for any of them?
I would. I really wanted to help them all. So why didn't I?
I'll be honest about the ladies. I wanted desperately to help them. I think about my wife and worry that one day she'd need help. I also know how afraid she would be sitting there helplessly. An approaching car would be a welcome sign, but then, as a man got out she'd wonder if it was safe after all.
I would stop any way and try my best to assure them I'm there to help.
Then why didn't I?
The truth is, I was in the wrong lane.
Sounds like a poor excuse doesn't it?
But it's the truth and there lies my proof that God was trying to tell me something.
In every single case, I was always in the passing lane. I was always in a hurry to get somewhere. I was always zipping by people in order to get ahead.
Sadly, I was also passing up people who needed help.
"Slow down!" He said to me.
But it wasn't just on the highway.
Could it be that I have been in such a hurry that I have been passing by others along the road of life?
What about the neighbor across the street? She lives alone. There must be some way to help her.
I see another woman sitting on a bench at the mall every time I shop there. Maybe a friendly "Hello!" would make a difference.
The fire victims I just read about in the paper today lost everything. I felt sorry for them. Is there something I can do?
Or am I in such a hurry that I cannot stop?
God has been telling me something all this time.
Cut the grass and "Bob, you're "in the wrong lane!"
"I believe in you!"
Bob@BobPerks.com copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
CHRIST COMES TO US
~Author Unknown~
It is interesting how through the ages people have tried to find words or images to describe what Christ means to our lives. Here he's a cornerstone. In another place he is a shepherd. Someone once made a list of some of the ways Christ comes to us:
To the Artist He Is the One Altogether Lovely.
To the Baker He Is the Living Bread.
To the Banker He Is the Hidden Treasure.
To the Biologist He Is the Life.
To the Builder He Is the Sure Foundation.
To the Carpenter He Is the Door.
To the Doctor He Is the Great Physician.
To the Educator He Is the Great Teacher.
To the Engineer He Is the New and Living Way.
To the Florist He Is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley.
To the Geologist He Is the Rock of Ages.
To the Horticulturist He Is the True Vine.
To the Judge He Is the Righteous Judge, Judge of All Men.
To the Jeweler He Is the Pearl of Great Price.
To the Lawyer He Is the Counselor, the Lawgiver, the Advocate.
To the Newspaper He Is the Good Tidings of Great Joy.
To the Philanthropist He Is the Unspeakable Gift.
To the Philosopher He Is the Wisdom of God.
To the Preacher He Is the Word of God.
To the Sculptor He Is the Living Stone.
To the Servant He Is the Good Master.
To the Statesman He Is the Desire of All Nations.
To the Student He Is the Incarnate Truth.
To the Theologian He Is the Author and Finisher of Our Faith.
To the Toiler He Is the Giver of Rest.
To the Sinner He Is the Lamb of God That Taketh Away the Sins of the World.
To the Christian He Is the Son of the Living God, the Savior, the Redeemer and the Lord.
It is interesting how through the ages people have tried to find words or images to describe what Christ means to our lives. Here he's a cornerstone. In another place he is a shepherd. Someone once made a list of some of the ways Christ comes to us:
To the Artist He Is the One Altogether Lovely.
To the Baker He Is the Living Bread.
To the Banker He Is the Hidden Treasure.
To the Biologist He Is the Life.
To the Builder He Is the Sure Foundation.
To the Carpenter He Is the Door.
To the Doctor He Is the Great Physician.
To the Educator He Is the Great Teacher.
To the Engineer He Is the New and Living Way.
To the Florist He Is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley.
To the Geologist He Is the Rock of Ages.
To the Horticulturist He Is the True Vine.
To the Judge He Is the Righteous Judge, Judge of All Men.
To the Jeweler He Is the Pearl of Great Price.
To the Lawyer He Is the Counselor, the Lawgiver, the Advocate.
To the Newspaper He Is the Good Tidings of Great Joy.
To the Philanthropist He Is the Unspeakable Gift.
To the Philosopher He Is the Wisdom of God.
To the Preacher He Is the Word of God.
To the Sculptor He Is the Living Stone.
To the Servant He Is the Good Master.
To the Statesman He Is the Desire of All Nations.
To the Student He Is the Incarnate Truth.
To the Theologian He Is the Author and Finisher of Our Faith.
To the Toiler He Is the Giver of Rest.
To the Sinner He Is the Lamb of God That Taketh Away the Sins of the World.
To the Christian He Is the Son of the Living God, the Savior, the Redeemer and the Lord.
WHY GO TO CHURCH
By David Hopkins
Why Go To Church - Want To Know 13 Reasons?
It's not necessary to go to church in order to get saved and therefore go to heaven, but going to church still has very important benefits that can help improve your life and keep it in order. Below are 13 reasons why we should attend church services on a regular basis.
1. Because it is an act of obedience to God and it honors the Lord's Day. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (Ex. 20:8).
2. Because we need to belong to a community of faith that includes our brothers and sisters in Christ who are trying to live out the gospel just like we are.
3. Because we will benefit from being taught and led in worship by others, rather than always depnding on ourselves to read and study the bible.
4. Because we need regular reminders of our standing in Christ, help in acknowledging and confessing our sins, and teaching about God's truth.
5. Because we need help in praying, tithing and fasting.
6. Because we need help to face the issues of life and faith as presented through the teachings of the Bible.
7. Because we need to hear how believers in the past struggled, grew and lived out their faith from different perspectives.
8. Because we need to hear about the experiences of other contemporary believers.
9. Because we need to hear reminders of God's love.
10. Because we need an alternative to the constant messages of a culture that ignores God.
11. Because we need to experience artistic and creative expressions of the faith, such as music, praying, fasting and tithing.
12. Because believers need help to reflect on the past week and see it as a small part of the journey of life.
13. Because we need a conscious break from work, family problems, and self interests in order to concentrate on the Lord.
In brief summary, the strategies and shcemes of the devil are well thought out and proven to work better than the marketing strategies of rich corporations like microsoft.
Therefore, we need other people we can count on to help us make it threw tough times when they arise.
Our chances of finding people we can count on in church are far better than finding someone we can count on anywhere else in the world.
Plus, going up against these strategies with out proper guidance will lead to unnecessary mistakes being made on our part.
In conclusion, going to church while also doing our own personal bible study at home on a regular basis helps us to get confirmation of God's message and what He wants us to do with our lives.
David Hopkins is a "Christian Article Writer" who specializes in helping people remember to glorify God in everything that they do, so they don't miss out on any of His wonderful blessings. Visit Daily Word Of God Group to read additional articles and to sign-up for a free newsletter to learn everything you need to know about why you should be putting God #1 in your life.
Why Go To Church - Want To Know 13 Reasons?
It's not necessary to go to church in order to get saved and therefore go to heaven, but going to church still has very important benefits that can help improve your life and keep it in order. Below are 13 reasons why we should attend church services on a regular basis.
1. Because it is an act of obedience to God and it honors the Lord's Day. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy (Ex. 20:8).
2. Because we need to belong to a community of faith that includes our brothers and sisters in Christ who are trying to live out the gospel just like we are.
3. Because we will benefit from being taught and led in worship by others, rather than always depnding on ourselves to read and study the bible.
4. Because we need regular reminders of our standing in Christ, help in acknowledging and confessing our sins, and teaching about God's truth.
5. Because we need help in praying, tithing and fasting.
6. Because we need help to face the issues of life and faith as presented through the teachings of the Bible.
7. Because we need to hear how believers in the past struggled, grew and lived out their faith from different perspectives.
8. Because we need to hear about the experiences of other contemporary believers.
9. Because we need to hear reminders of God's love.
10. Because we need an alternative to the constant messages of a culture that ignores God.
11. Because we need to experience artistic and creative expressions of the faith, such as music, praying, fasting and tithing.
12. Because believers need help to reflect on the past week and see it as a small part of the journey of life.
13. Because we need a conscious break from work, family problems, and self interests in order to concentrate on the Lord.
In brief summary, the strategies and shcemes of the devil are well thought out and proven to work better than the marketing strategies of rich corporations like microsoft.
Therefore, we need other people we can count on to help us make it threw tough times when they arise.
Our chances of finding people we can count on in church are far better than finding someone we can count on anywhere else in the world.
Plus, going up against these strategies with out proper guidance will lead to unnecessary mistakes being made on our part.
In conclusion, going to church while also doing our own personal bible study at home on a regular basis helps us to get confirmation of God's message and what He wants us to do with our lives.
David Hopkins is a "Christian Article Writer" who specializes in helping people remember to glorify God in everything that they do, so they don't miss out on any of His wonderful blessings. Visit Daily Word Of God Group to read additional articles and to sign-up for a free newsletter to learn everything you need to know about why you should be putting God #1 in your life.
HOW CAN I KNOW GOD'S WILL?
Contributed by Maria Hanna
We usually wonder "Oh... if I just know what is God's will for me!" "George Muller was known for His life of prayer and close walk with God. He has simple method for determining the will of God:
1. I seek to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in a given matter. When we are ready to do the Lord's will in whatever it may be, nine-tenths of the difficulties are overcome.
2. Having done this, I do not leave the result to feeling or simple impression. If I do so, I make myself liable to great delusions.
3. I seek the will of the Spirit of God through, or in connection with, God's Word. The Spirit and the Word must be combined. If I look to the Spirit alone without the Word, I lay myself open to great delusions also. If the Holy Spirit guides us, He will do it according to the Scriptures, never contrary to them.
4. Next I take into account providential circumstances. These often plainly indicate God's will in connection with His Word and Spirit.
5. I ask God in prayer to reveal His will to me.
6. Thus, through prayer, the study of the Word and reflection, I come to a deliberate judgment according to the best of my ability and knowledge. If my mind is thus at peace and continues so after two or three more petitions, I proceed accordingly. I have found this method always effective in trivial or important issues.
Excerpted from a pamphlet published by Good News Pucblishers
We usually wonder "Oh... if I just know what is God's will for me!" "George Muller was known for His life of prayer and close walk with God. He has simple method for determining the will of God:
1. I seek to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in a given matter. When we are ready to do the Lord's will in whatever it may be, nine-tenths of the difficulties are overcome.
2. Having done this, I do not leave the result to feeling or simple impression. If I do so, I make myself liable to great delusions.
3. I seek the will of the Spirit of God through, or in connection with, God's Word. The Spirit and the Word must be combined. If I look to the Spirit alone without the Word, I lay myself open to great delusions also. If the Holy Spirit guides us, He will do it according to the Scriptures, never contrary to them.
4. Next I take into account providential circumstances. These often plainly indicate God's will in connection with His Word and Spirit.
5. I ask God in prayer to reveal His will to me.
6. Thus, through prayer, the study of the Word and reflection, I come to a deliberate judgment according to the best of my ability and knowledge. If my mind is thus at peace and continues so after two or three more petitions, I proceed accordingly. I have found this method always effective in trivial or important issues.
Excerpted from a pamphlet published by Good News Pucblishers
I LOVE YOU NANA
Contributed by Marion Smith
" We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us." 1 John 4:16
Sweeter words than this are few and far between, I can tell you! Not only do I enjoy hearing these expressions, I have experienced hugs, kisses (including butterfly and Eskimo), lap sitting and sweet touches of a little hand on my face. It doesn't matter to me that these sweet endearments are given freely to many others- including Mommy, Daddy, brother, aunts, uncles and other grandparents. It is not important one bit! Each gesture of love directed toward me is especially for me, and received with a heart full to overflowing with awe and love.
Now, God does the same thing. He shows His love for me in so many ways. He speaks to my heart, gives me His written Word, gives me the Holy Spirit and all He has to offer. He shows me His love through relationships I have and through the beauty of nature. He gives these same endearments of love to millions of others also, but that doesn't make it less special for me. When I see the majesty of snow capped mountains, the ocean waves rolling in, delightful birds and animals, and the beauty of healthy relationships, I stand in awe.
I know His love for me is special, just as it is for each of His children. He has something special in store for you today; may your spiritual eyes be open to it!
" We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us." 1 John 4:16
Sweeter words than this are few and far between, I can tell you! Not only do I enjoy hearing these expressions, I have experienced hugs, kisses (including butterfly and Eskimo), lap sitting and sweet touches of a little hand on my face. It doesn't matter to me that these sweet endearments are given freely to many others- including Mommy, Daddy, brother, aunts, uncles and other grandparents. It is not important one bit! Each gesture of love directed toward me is especially for me, and received with a heart full to overflowing with awe and love.
Now, God does the same thing. He shows His love for me in so many ways. He speaks to my heart, gives me His written Word, gives me the Holy Spirit and all He has to offer. He shows me His love through relationships I have and through the beauty of nature. He gives these same endearments of love to millions of others also, but that doesn't make it less special for me. When I see the majesty of snow capped mountains, the ocean waves rolling in, delightful birds and animals, and the beauty of healthy relationships, I stand in awe.
I know His love for me is special, just as it is for each of His children. He has something special in store for you today; may your spiritual eyes be open to it!
TRAGEDY AND FIRE...BUT GOD IS THERE
By Larry Davies
The shrill wail of the fire engine sirens pierced the early morning air on Election Day several years ago as we stood outside a local voting area to help a church member running for the office of Commonwealth's Attorney. As the ambulance and two fire engines sped by it seemed obvious they were heading for a neighborhood where many of our church members lived, so I ran to the car and followed the rescue vehicles to find a catastrophe too horrible, to ever forget.
The flames were still leaping from the windows of the small house as firemen and police officers scurried in every direction. A young couple with three small children lived inside. A fireman ran out of the house towards the waiting ambulance clutching one of the children. Another child was already inside the vehicle along with his mother. The third child, a baby was still inside the house.
As the ambulance sped away with sirens blaring toward the nearby hospital, I followed knowing my place needed to be with the family. I found the young mother by herself in the waiting room and sat with her. We helped her contact the husband who had gone to work earlier that morning. During that time, a doctor solemnly informed her of the loss of their baby who died at the scene. Thirty minutes later a nurse came to break the news that her next youngest son also died.
The mother then pleaded with us to see her child. We were walked down the hall into the bay of the emergency room. The curtain was drawn to give us privacy. The mother tenderly picked up her little boy who merely looked asleep and soothingly cradled him in her arms as she began to sing his favorite lullaby. The nurse, crying, ran out of the room, but the mother seemed oblivious to all of us as she combed her child's hair with her fingers and continued quietly singing.
Where was God during this awful tragedy?
There is no easy answer but I found comfort in Isaiah: "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you." (43:1) God was with them within a matter of hours as people throughout the community gathered to pray for the family as well as donate needed food, clothing and money.
"When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown!" (43:2) God was there as our church reached out to coordinate community relief efforts and help the family find a new place to live. Furniture was donated along with money given toward a scholarship fund for the surviving son.
"When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." (43:2) God was with us all later that day when at the request of the family I went back to the charred ruins of their house looking for anything that might have survived the awful fire. Everything was totally destroyed except for one object found in the living room amidst a smoldering pile of ashes. What I found was a family Bible lying on the floor: A Bible that survived the heat of that awful fire in nearly perfect condition. How is that possible? I really don't know.
"For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (43:1-3) I don't always understand why tragedies have to occur the way they do but I do know God is always there.
One Sunday, the mother and her surviving child attended our church for the first time. During the service she became flustered and confused trying to read the unfamiliar bulletin and keep the hymn book open while trying to hold her hyperactive son still. I cringed for her dilemma but could think of no way to step down from the front to help her. Just then, a kind older woman near the back of the sanctuary stood and quietly moved forward to sit with the family and assist them.
Is this a perfect ending to the story? No, but life seldom supplies perfect endings, which is why we must understand that even in the midst of tragedy…God will always be there! "When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you."
The shrill wail of the fire engine sirens pierced the early morning air on Election Day several years ago as we stood outside a local voting area to help a church member running for the office of Commonwealth's Attorney. As the ambulance and two fire engines sped by it seemed obvious they were heading for a neighborhood where many of our church members lived, so I ran to the car and followed the rescue vehicles to find a catastrophe too horrible, to ever forget.
The flames were still leaping from the windows of the small house as firemen and police officers scurried in every direction. A young couple with three small children lived inside. A fireman ran out of the house towards the waiting ambulance clutching one of the children. Another child was already inside the vehicle along with his mother. The third child, a baby was still inside the house.
As the ambulance sped away with sirens blaring toward the nearby hospital, I followed knowing my place needed to be with the family. I found the young mother by herself in the waiting room and sat with her. We helped her contact the husband who had gone to work earlier that morning. During that time, a doctor solemnly informed her of the loss of their baby who died at the scene. Thirty minutes later a nurse came to break the news that her next youngest son also died.
The mother then pleaded with us to see her child. We were walked down the hall into the bay of the emergency room. The curtain was drawn to give us privacy. The mother tenderly picked up her little boy who merely looked asleep and soothingly cradled him in her arms as she began to sing his favorite lullaby. The nurse, crying, ran out of the room, but the mother seemed oblivious to all of us as she combed her child's hair with her fingers and continued quietly singing.
Where was God during this awful tragedy?
There is no easy answer but I found comfort in Isaiah: "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you." (43:1) God was with them within a matter of hours as people throughout the community gathered to pray for the family as well as donate needed food, clothing and money.
"When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown!" (43:2) God was there as our church reached out to coordinate community relief efforts and help the family find a new place to live. Furniture was donated along with money given toward a scholarship fund for the surviving son.
"When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." (43:2) God was with us all later that day when at the request of the family I went back to the charred ruins of their house looking for anything that might have survived the awful fire. Everything was totally destroyed except for one object found in the living room amidst a smoldering pile of ashes. What I found was a family Bible lying on the floor: A Bible that survived the heat of that awful fire in nearly perfect condition. How is that possible? I really don't know.
"For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (43:1-3) I don't always understand why tragedies have to occur the way they do but I do know God is always there.
One Sunday, the mother and her surviving child attended our church for the first time. During the service she became flustered and confused trying to read the unfamiliar bulletin and keep the hymn book open while trying to hold her hyperactive son still. I cringed for her dilemma but could think of no way to step down from the front to help her. Just then, a kind older woman near the back of the sanctuary stood and quietly moved forward to sit with the family and assist them.
Is this a perfect ending to the story? No, but life seldom supplies perfect endings, which is why we must understand that even in the midst of tragedy…God will always be there! "When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you."
MERCY
Contributed by Sally I. Kennedy
"Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?" Matthew 18:33
Once a week I meet for share-and-prayer. Last time we met, a regular in the group brought a visitor without checking first to see if it would be okay. That is my special place to share candidly. I felt intimidated with a new person present, and was reluctant to say much when it was my turn. The whole time I was thinking, "Forgive her for bringing her friend. Bless, not curse. I forgive her."
That evening, I was reading one of Corrie Ten Boom's books, in which she shared a story about forgiving someone who had wronged her in a letter. A friend told her to "forgive, and 'burn the black and white'." Symbolicly, I 'burned the black and white', and forgave my friend. Just then, these words came into my mind: "Mercy triumphs over righteousness." I thought, "What does that have to do with anything?" With my 'spiritual ears', I heard, "It's better to err on the side of mercy." It hit me. It's not about forgiveness. It's not about being right or wrong. It's about mercy.
I remembered a story where the ruling church criticized Jesus. They said, in essence, "What nerve you have! Picking grain and eating it on the Sabbath. That is clearly against the rules. What's the matter with you? You know better!" To which, Jesus replied, "We were hungry. Was man made for the sabbath, or sabbath for the man?"
I think I got it. My friend brought her guest along and looked at it as a kindness toward her. She had shown mercy. Mercy! Mercy triumphs over righteousness. Mercy triumphs over judgement. Thank God we have a merciful God. How I want to be like Him.
"Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?" Matthew 18:33
Once a week I meet for share-and-prayer. Last time we met, a regular in the group brought a visitor without checking first to see if it would be okay. That is my special place to share candidly. I felt intimidated with a new person present, and was reluctant to say much when it was my turn. The whole time I was thinking, "Forgive her for bringing her friend. Bless, not curse. I forgive her."
That evening, I was reading one of Corrie Ten Boom's books, in which she shared a story about forgiving someone who had wronged her in a letter. A friend told her to "forgive, and 'burn the black and white'." Symbolicly, I 'burned the black and white', and forgave my friend. Just then, these words came into my mind: "Mercy triumphs over righteousness." I thought, "What does that have to do with anything?" With my 'spiritual ears', I heard, "It's better to err on the side of mercy." It hit me. It's not about forgiveness. It's not about being right or wrong. It's about mercy.
I remembered a story where the ruling church criticized Jesus. They said, in essence, "What nerve you have! Picking grain and eating it on the Sabbath. That is clearly against the rules. What's the matter with you? You know better!" To which, Jesus replied, "We were hungry. Was man made for the sabbath, or sabbath for the man?"
I think I got it. My friend brought her guest along and looked at it as a kindness toward her. She had shown mercy. Mercy! Mercy triumphs over righteousness. Mercy triumphs over judgement. Thank God we have a merciful God. How I want to be like Him.
GOD'S WILL FOR OUR LIVES
-- Author Unknown
A young, new preacher was walking with an older, more seasoned preacher in the garden one day and feeling a bit insecure about what God had for him to do, he was inquiring of the older preacher. The older preacher walked up to a rosebush and handed the young preacher a rosebud and told him to open it without tearing off any petals.
The young preacher looked in disbelief at the older preacher and was trying to figure out what a rosebud could possibly have to do with his wanting to know the WILL OF GOD for his life and for his ministry. Because of his high respect for the older preacher, he proceeded to TRY to unfold the rose, while keeping every petal in tact...It wasn't long before he realized how it was impossible to do so.
Noticing the younger preacher's inability to unfold the rosebud while keeping it in tact, the older preacher began to tell the following poem...
UNFOLDING THE ROSEBUD
It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of GOD's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
When in my hands they fade and die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of GOD's design,
Then how can I think I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I'll trust in Him for His leading
Each moment of every day.
I will look to Him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.
The pathway that lies before me,
Only my heavenly Father knows.
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.
A young, new preacher was walking with an older, more seasoned preacher in the garden one day and feeling a bit insecure about what God had for him to do, he was inquiring of the older preacher. The older preacher walked up to a rosebush and handed the young preacher a rosebud and told him to open it without tearing off any petals.
The young preacher looked in disbelief at the older preacher and was trying to figure out what a rosebud could possibly have to do with his wanting to know the WILL OF GOD for his life and for his ministry. Because of his high respect for the older preacher, he proceeded to TRY to unfold the rose, while keeping every petal in tact...It wasn't long before he realized how it was impossible to do so.
Noticing the younger preacher's inability to unfold the rosebud while keeping it in tact, the older preacher began to tell the following poem...
UNFOLDING THE ROSEBUD
It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of GOD's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
When in my hands they fade and die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of GOD's design,
Then how can I think I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I'll trust in Him for His leading
Each moment of every day.
I will look to Him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.
The pathway that lies before me,
Only my heavenly Father knows.
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.
I BELIEVE
By Bob Perks
Two frogs. One swan. Three eagles. Four deer. Three wild turkeys. Three seagulls.
Sometimes we aren't looking for answers. Sometimes they just appear.
I've discovered that in order to get the answer you want you sometimes need to stop asking the question.
I believe when I fall flat on my face, I cause the fall. Like an out of body experience, I think I've been running ahead of myself and when the real me approaches I slip my foot in front and trip myself up.
I believe that, what has appeared to me to be a dead end was really me standing in the way.
I believe that some of the darkest times in my life was caused by me blocking the sun.
I believe that when I thought God wasn't speaking to me, I was just talking so much He couldn't get a word in.
I believe that when I begged for a miracle from Heaven I was already seeing it every time I looked in the mirror.
So I stopped asking questions.
Today, in less than eight hours, traveling the same road I've always traveled, I saw...two frogs in my back yard pond that weren't there before. One perfectly gorgeous swan in the most unlikely place...a very small pond right next to the road. Three eagles nested high atop a pole I've looked at a dozen times before but never saw perched there. At five thirty in the morning, in my own yard, I saw a family of four deer, including two adorable Bambi-like babies, one female and one male with a perfectly formed rack. Three wild red neck turkeys strutting along the front yard of a home in the mid day sun. Three seagulls flying around the parking lot far from any shore line.
I believe there is nothing, nothing at all that can over shadow the one basic truth.
I believe above all else, beyond comparison, more valuable than anything, I mean anything else, is the fact that...I am alive!
I believe that short of death itself, there is nothing that could happen to me that could possibly lessen the importance of that fact.
I am alive!
There is the answer. The rest, I believe, is up to me.
"I believe in you!"
By Bob Perks
Bob@BobPerks.com
copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
Two frogs. One swan. Three eagles. Four deer. Three wild turkeys. Three seagulls.
Sometimes we aren't looking for answers. Sometimes they just appear.
I've discovered that in order to get the answer you want you sometimes need to stop asking the question.
I believe when I fall flat on my face, I cause the fall. Like an out of body experience, I think I've been running ahead of myself and when the real me approaches I slip my foot in front and trip myself up.
I believe that, what has appeared to me to be a dead end was really me standing in the way.
I believe that some of the darkest times in my life was caused by me blocking the sun.
I believe that when I thought God wasn't speaking to me, I was just talking so much He couldn't get a word in.
I believe that when I begged for a miracle from Heaven I was already seeing it every time I looked in the mirror.
So I stopped asking questions.
Today, in less than eight hours, traveling the same road I've always traveled, I saw...two frogs in my back yard pond that weren't there before. One perfectly gorgeous swan in the most unlikely place...a very small pond right next to the road. Three eagles nested high atop a pole I've looked at a dozen times before but never saw perched there. At five thirty in the morning, in my own yard, I saw a family of four deer, including two adorable Bambi-like babies, one female and one male with a perfectly formed rack. Three wild red neck turkeys strutting along the front yard of a home in the mid day sun. Three seagulls flying around the parking lot far from any shore line.
I believe there is nothing, nothing at all that can over shadow the one basic truth.
I believe above all else, beyond comparison, more valuable than anything, I mean anything else, is the fact that...I am alive!
I believe that short of death itself, there is nothing that could happen to me that could possibly lessen the importance of that fact.
I am alive!
There is the answer. The rest, I believe, is up to me.
"I believe in you!"
By Bob Perks
Bob@BobPerks.com
copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
CALLING OUT TO GOD
Contributed by Melanie Schurr
I'm in the process of reading a very neat book on midlife, called "If Not Now, When?" The book is about reclaiming ourselves at midlife, and its author is Stephanie Marston.
As I read from page to page, I can't help but snicker and nod because, as we gain a glimpse into the author's mind, we see a middle- aged woman coming to grips with her fears and insecurities over losing her youth. However, this is not a book about whining, defeat, and wishing to be young again. Far from that! It is a book filled with warmth, strength, determination, hope, and optimism! Marston actually makes getting older something to anticipate and embrace, rather than fear or despise, something a large portion of those of us forty plus years old sometimes do.
Don't believe me?
Think of how many men and women pay big bucks to have liposuction on droopy bottoms, bellies, and thighs. How many mature individuals crack open their retirement piggy bank to have a face-lift, rather than the condo on the beach they hoped for? Grey hairs suddenly become dreaded intruders that deserve to be yanked out by the roots! And, our skin, oh, how dare it betray us with age spots and wrinkles as big as the grand canyon!
We hear the word "aging," "mature" or, (gasp), "senior citizen," and we think of one foot in the coffin, NOT one foot in the cha-cha line at "Harry's House of Fine Libations."
What I really loved about Stephanie Marston's book is she lets us know that midlife is not only NOT dead, but it is like a rebirth; puberty relived, but in a way that is more satisfying and meaningful than before!
In my view, Marston's book helps the reader to gain an improved acceptance, not only over age number, but with the natural process of aging. Let's face it, aging is something we ALL will do, so why dread the inevitable? We might be able to temporarily stave off the wrinkles with surgery or miracle lotions, but underneath the flesh, blood and bones, we ARE what we ARE.
Learning to love ourselves, despite height, weight, eye or hair color, or any other external material that our Heavenly Father cares nothing about, is about realizing what is truly important in life, and what is merely fluff. What IS important is how well we have lived, and how well we have loved. This love, not only includes friends, family and relations, but our Creator, as well.
Today, I encourage you to set aside worrying about vanity, and to look for all the REAL beauty in life. Here's a hint. The first place to start is with calling out to God.
I'm in the process of reading a very neat book on midlife, called "If Not Now, When?" The book is about reclaiming ourselves at midlife, and its author is Stephanie Marston.
As I read from page to page, I can't help but snicker and nod because, as we gain a glimpse into the author's mind, we see a middle- aged woman coming to grips with her fears and insecurities over losing her youth. However, this is not a book about whining, defeat, and wishing to be young again. Far from that! It is a book filled with warmth, strength, determination, hope, and optimism! Marston actually makes getting older something to anticipate and embrace, rather than fear or despise, something a large portion of those of us forty plus years old sometimes do.
Don't believe me?
Think of how many men and women pay big bucks to have liposuction on droopy bottoms, bellies, and thighs. How many mature individuals crack open their retirement piggy bank to have a face-lift, rather than the condo on the beach they hoped for? Grey hairs suddenly become dreaded intruders that deserve to be yanked out by the roots! And, our skin, oh, how dare it betray us with age spots and wrinkles as big as the grand canyon!
We hear the word "aging," "mature" or, (gasp), "senior citizen," and we think of one foot in the coffin, NOT one foot in the cha-cha line at "Harry's House of Fine Libations."
What I really loved about Stephanie Marston's book is she lets us know that midlife is not only NOT dead, but it is like a rebirth; puberty relived, but in a way that is more satisfying and meaningful than before!
In my view, Marston's book helps the reader to gain an improved acceptance, not only over age number, but with the natural process of aging. Let's face it, aging is something we ALL will do, so why dread the inevitable? We might be able to temporarily stave off the wrinkles with surgery or miracle lotions, but underneath the flesh, blood and bones, we ARE what we ARE.
Learning to love ourselves, despite height, weight, eye or hair color, or any other external material that our Heavenly Father cares nothing about, is about realizing what is truly important in life, and what is merely fluff. What IS important is how well we have lived, and how well we have loved. This love, not only includes friends, family and relations, but our Creator, as well.
Today, I encourage you to set aside worrying about vanity, and to look for all the REAL beauty in life. Here's a hint. The first place to start is with calling out to God.
CANOPY
Contributed by Marion Smith
Jun 02, 2005
"How I have wanted to gather your children as a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wing." Matthew 23:37
Webster defines a canopy as "any high covering", whether completed with cloth or foliage. A canopy bed is usually beautifully finished with a special décor in mind,and the covering above makes me feel special, almost like a princess.
This week I saw a canopy in nature. The Live Oak trees in Savannah, Georgia were planted long ago oneach side of the roads in that area. Today, so many years later, their branchesreach together, forming a canopy over the road. The picture is one to behold. The Spanish moss hangs gracefully and sways gently in the breeze most of the time. The cover is so dense in some places that it obliterates the view of the sky.
God has given us a canopy, also. He tells us in the Bible that He wants to gather us like a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wing. She does it to protect them- unequivocally. This is similar to having God as our heavenly umbrella. An umbrella is only as good as our use of it. Just as the chicks run to their mother, we can run to God,receivingprotection from the rains of life. We are under His umbrella of security, but we must choose to open it in order to receive God's divine shelter and protection. Remember, He is always willing to call His "chicks" (us) under His Holy Wings. Let's listen for the call!
Jun 02, 2005
"How I have wanted to gather your children as a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wing." Matthew 23:37
Webster defines a canopy as "any high covering", whether completed with cloth or foliage. A canopy bed is usually beautifully finished with a special décor in mind,and the covering above makes me feel special, almost like a princess.
This week I saw a canopy in nature. The Live Oak trees in Savannah, Georgia were planted long ago oneach side of the roads in that area. Today, so many years later, their branchesreach together, forming a canopy over the road. The picture is one to behold. The Spanish moss hangs gracefully and sways gently in the breeze most of the time. The cover is so dense in some places that it obliterates the view of the sky.
God has given us a canopy, also. He tells us in the Bible that He wants to gather us like a mother hen gathers her chicks under her wing. She does it to protect them- unequivocally. This is similar to having God as our heavenly umbrella. An umbrella is only as good as our use of it. Just as the chicks run to their mother, we can run to God,receivingprotection from the rains of life. We are under His umbrella of security, but we must choose to open it in order to receive God's divine shelter and protection. Remember, He is always willing to call His "chicks" (us) under His Holy Wings. Let's listen for the call!
WHERE DID THE FLOWERS GO?
By Bob Perks
Jun 03, 2005
I miss the colors of my garden. Where did the flowers go?
I miss them swaying with the breath of God and sometimes standing still in the warmth of His light.
In the morning they were eager to face the day. Heads hung low until the first sunbeam danced across their faces. Responding then in gratitude they rise to greet the sun. More faithful than I, they rise to the occasion even on cloudy days. Somehow knowing that beyond the clouds, on the darkest of days, the sun will keep its promise, still.
I miss the colors of my garden.
Where did the flowers go?
Perhaps, by some divine intervention, the colors did not fade away but now in autumn they were absorbed into the leaves of a million nearby trees. The yellows of the daffodil, the redness of the rose, the purple of the pansy and the orange of the day lily, take my breath away once more.
In that cycle of life the colors soon fall back down to earth to sleep perhaps until spring.
Then I will sigh… "I miss the colors of autumn leaves. Where did the colors go?"
God, responding unexpectedly in stark contrast to winter's black and white, will paint the sky before me with a blazing sunset.
As if that were not enough, near the time of renewal, He'll swipe his hand between the first fresh spring rain and the break through of the sun and rainbows will appear reminding me of the covenant made and kept.
It is the palette used to paint the flowers I longed for all year.
The colors never fade for they are the colors of life year round.
"I believe in you!"
Bob Perks
Bob@BobPerks.com
copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
Jun 03, 2005
I miss the colors of my garden. Where did the flowers go?
I miss them swaying with the breath of God and sometimes standing still in the warmth of His light.
In the morning they were eager to face the day. Heads hung low until the first sunbeam danced across their faces. Responding then in gratitude they rise to greet the sun. More faithful than I, they rise to the occasion even on cloudy days. Somehow knowing that beyond the clouds, on the darkest of days, the sun will keep its promise, still.
I miss the colors of my garden.
Where did the flowers go?
Perhaps, by some divine intervention, the colors did not fade away but now in autumn they were absorbed into the leaves of a million nearby trees. The yellows of the daffodil, the redness of the rose, the purple of the pansy and the orange of the day lily, take my breath away once more.
In that cycle of life the colors soon fall back down to earth to sleep perhaps until spring.
Then I will sigh… "I miss the colors of autumn leaves. Where did the colors go?"
God, responding unexpectedly in stark contrast to winter's black and white, will paint the sky before me with a blazing sunset.
As if that were not enough, near the time of renewal, He'll swipe his hand between the first fresh spring rain and the break through of the sun and rainbows will appear reminding me of the covenant made and kept.
It is the palette used to paint the flowers I longed for all year.
The colors never fade for they are the colors of life year round.
"I believe in you!"
Bob Perks
Bob@BobPerks.com
copyright 2004 Bob Perks I encourage you to share my stories with your friends but, when copying I ask that you keep my name and contact information attached so that new readers can find their way here. Use of this story for commercial use is prohibited without direct permission from the author.
DARKNESS DOESN'T LAST FOREVER
Contributed by Melanie Schurr
Jun 04, 2005
While our teens were in those often crazy, hormonal years, my mind, body and spirit were definitely put to the test. In short, it was probably the worst period of my life; a time filled with frustration, worry, and a sense that I was carrying a burden almost too large to bear. What added to this sense of overwhelming frustration was that this was not the sort of thing that was supposed to happen to a Christian. Or was it? I did all the right things; raised my children up in the Lord and was an active and loving presence in their lives. We prayed together, read stories (including from the Bible) every night before bed, ate home-cooked meals around the dinner table, and, in general, life as a family was good.
All of that seemed to go out the window during their mid-teen years, and along with the feelings of pain and disillusionment, came guilt and embarrassment. Every day I would ask myself, "Why?" There seemed to be no answer so I had no choice but to simply trust God, trust what I truly believed in my heart was the right thing to do, and PRAY like I've never prayed before.
From what was the bleakest period in my existence, darkness finally did give way to light as I had hoped it would. God DID hear my prayers. Slowly but surely, things began to improve, attitudes began to change, godly justice was being dispersed, and truth and love began cutting through the mire. What was a time of profound suffering also gave way to numerous rich blessings, one of which allowed our family to relocate to an area of the country where we had deeply desired to live. Like the all-knowing and wise Father He is, God seemed to see what we needed to heal. Our oldest child made the decision to join the Armed Forces, and the remainder of his transformation from child to man is becoming more clearly evident. His letters and calls home are reflective of a young man who, for a time, was lost, but is now back on track. As his last letter aptly states, "The past is past. The future is now."
This Daily Wisdom is written for those people who may be going through a hard time in their lives. No one said our lives would be complete bliss, for we are humans as capable of grief and tears as we are of laughter and joy. Despite what hardships may come our way, however, our faith in God allows us the hope that darkness always will give way to light, in the same way that justice prevails, and good reigns over evil. It may not come in an hour or a day, but in God's perfect timing, dark times will not last forever.
Contributed by Melanie Schurr ©2004 Melanie Schurr Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day."
Jun 04, 2005
While our teens were in those often crazy, hormonal years, my mind, body and spirit were definitely put to the test. In short, it was probably the worst period of my life; a time filled with frustration, worry, and a sense that I was carrying a burden almost too large to bear. What added to this sense of overwhelming frustration was that this was not the sort of thing that was supposed to happen to a Christian. Or was it? I did all the right things; raised my children up in the Lord and was an active and loving presence in their lives. We prayed together, read stories (including from the Bible) every night before bed, ate home-cooked meals around the dinner table, and, in general, life as a family was good.
All of that seemed to go out the window during their mid-teen years, and along with the feelings of pain and disillusionment, came guilt and embarrassment. Every day I would ask myself, "Why?" There seemed to be no answer so I had no choice but to simply trust God, trust what I truly believed in my heart was the right thing to do, and PRAY like I've never prayed before.
From what was the bleakest period in my existence, darkness finally did give way to light as I had hoped it would. God DID hear my prayers. Slowly but surely, things began to improve, attitudes began to change, godly justice was being dispersed, and truth and love began cutting through the mire. What was a time of profound suffering also gave way to numerous rich blessings, one of which allowed our family to relocate to an area of the country where we had deeply desired to live. Like the all-knowing and wise Father He is, God seemed to see what we needed to heal. Our oldest child made the decision to join the Armed Forces, and the remainder of his transformation from child to man is becoming more clearly evident. His letters and calls home are reflective of a young man who, for a time, was lost, but is now back on track. As his last letter aptly states, "The past is past. The future is now."
This Daily Wisdom is written for those people who may be going through a hard time in their lives. No one said our lives would be complete bliss, for we are humans as capable of grief and tears as we are of laughter and joy. Despite what hardships may come our way, however, our faith in God allows us the hope that darkness always will give way to light, in the same way that justice prevails, and good reigns over evil. It may not come in an hour or a day, but in God's perfect timing, dark times will not last forever.
Contributed by Melanie Schurr ©2004 Melanie Schurr Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day."
A SOLDIER'S PRAYER
(Larry Walker, Tommy Oliver)
Jun 5, 2005
One hot desert morning at dawn's early light While trudging through the sand I found a piece of paper Clutched in a young man's hand
And upon that paper the words he wrote
Were not filled with despair
Just thoughts from the heart of a brave young lad He called it, "A Soldier's Prayer"
I took the paper from his hand and read it aloud.
Will there be a place in heaven
For a person such as me
Who, through youth and the love of life… Isn't all you'd have me be?
I've been a man but a short time now
And I'll ask you this, if I might
Isn't fighting for freedom's cause
A fight that's always right?
The men I've killed, some things I've done Are not things I've wanted to do But a job I believe had to be done By we who believe in you
I had those thoughts upon my mind
When I heard that deadly sound
Then, all around me, one by one
My friends fell to the ground
Somehow I knew before it hit
Fear ran up my spine
I felt the blast tearing my side
I knew this one was mine
There'll be much grief for loved ones at home When they learn that I am dead Please ease their pain and let them know These things that I have said
Time's run out, I can feel death's sting Oh, God, please hear my plea Let there be a place in heaven For a person such as me
Lord, this is the chaplain, I'm here with this lad Our country's given the finest it had We who are older and have studied your word Know this boy's prayer is more than just heard It is answered with your love And the promise that there'll be A special place in heaven For a person such as he.
Jun 5, 2005
One hot desert morning at dawn's early light While trudging through the sand I found a piece of paper Clutched in a young man's hand
And upon that paper the words he wrote
Were not filled with despair
Just thoughts from the heart of a brave young lad He called it, "A Soldier's Prayer"
I took the paper from his hand and read it aloud.
Will there be a place in heaven
For a person such as me
Who, through youth and the love of life… Isn't all you'd have me be?
I've been a man but a short time now
And I'll ask you this, if I might
Isn't fighting for freedom's cause
A fight that's always right?
The men I've killed, some things I've done Are not things I've wanted to do But a job I believe had to be done By we who believe in you
I had those thoughts upon my mind
When I heard that deadly sound
Then, all around me, one by one
My friends fell to the ground
Somehow I knew before it hit
Fear ran up my spine
I felt the blast tearing my side
I knew this one was mine
There'll be much grief for loved ones at home When they learn that I am dead Please ease their pain and let them know These things that I have said
Time's run out, I can feel death's sting Oh, God, please hear my plea Let there be a place in heaven For a person such as me
Lord, this is the chaplain, I'm here with this lad Our country's given the finest it had We who are older and have studied your word Know this boy's prayer is more than just heard It is answered with your love And the promise that there'll be A special place in heaven For a person such as he.
IN MY HEART
Contributed by Melanie Schurr
Jun 6, 2005
"I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11
Do you know that there are some people who go to church on Sundays and Holy days but who still do not have God's love in their heart? How can that be, you ask?
Such occurs when we invite God into our lives, yet we neglect to place Him and His word in our hearts. While we may do outward good works, our inner being may still be dominated by the ways of the world rather than the good and perfect ways of the Lord. This includes our innermost thoughts, words and actions which we think no one sees. God is not concerned with the outer man or outer good works. He is more interested in our genuine spiritual walk.
Do you practice what you preach? Do you love others, and treat them as you wish to be treated? Do you have an intimate relationship with God; one which encourages you to seek higher levels of wisdom and understanding? If your answer to any of these is "no", there is still room for spiritual growth in your life. In fact, this is something we all can benefit from as no man, while he is here on earth, has reached ultimate knowledge. The desire to learn, grow and expand is part of our life journey, and it is God's desire for this journey to be a joyous one.
Today, invite love in to your heart by asking God to enter your life.
Jun 6, 2005
"I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11
Do you know that there are some people who go to church on Sundays and Holy days but who still do not have God's love in their heart? How can that be, you ask?
Such occurs when we invite God into our lives, yet we neglect to place Him and His word in our hearts. While we may do outward good works, our inner being may still be dominated by the ways of the world rather than the good and perfect ways of the Lord. This includes our innermost thoughts, words and actions which we think no one sees. God is not concerned with the outer man or outer good works. He is more interested in our genuine spiritual walk.
Do you practice what you preach? Do you love others, and treat them as you wish to be treated? Do you have an intimate relationship with God; one which encourages you to seek higher levels of wisdom and understanding? If your answer to any of these is "no", there is still room for spiritual growth in your life. In fact, this is something we all can benefit from as no man, while he is here on earth, has reached ultimate knowledge. The desire to learn, grow and expand is part of our life journey, and it is God's desire for this journey to be a joyous one.
Today, invite love in to your heart by asking God to enter your life.
THE GRANDFATHER'S TABLE
Author Unknown
Jun 7, 2005
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table, but the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about Grandfather," said the son. "I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor." Therefore, the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?"
Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.
The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.
That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days, he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
Children are remarkably perceptive. Their eyes ever observe, their ears ever listen, and their minds ever process the messages they absorb. If they see us patiently, provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives. The wise parent realizes that every day the building blocks are being laid for the child's future. Let us be wise builders and role models.
Jun 7, 2005
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table, but the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about Grandfather," said the son. "I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor." Therefore, the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?"
Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.
The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.
That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days, he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
Children are remarkably perceptive. Their eyes ever observe, their ears ever listen, and their minds ever process the messages they absorb. If they see us patiently, provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives. The wise parent realizes that every day the building blocks are being laid for the child's future. Let us be wise builders and role models.
A PERFECT HEART
Forwarded by Emy Yap
Jun 8, 2005
One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley. A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart. Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said, "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine." The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.
The people stared -- how can he say his heart is more beautiful, they thought? The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and laughed. "You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."
"Yes," said the old man, "yours is perfect looking but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them, and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty gouges -- giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"
The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man's heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by side.
Jun 8, 2005
One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley. A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart. Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said, "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine." The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.
The people stared -- how can he say his heart is more beautiful, they thought? The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and laughed. "You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."
"Yes," said the old man, "yours is perfect looking but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them, and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty gouges -- giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"
The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man's heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by side.
THE FENCE
Author Unknown
Jun 09, 2005
There was a little boy with a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, to hammer a nail in the back fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Then it gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.
Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out.
It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their hearts to us.
But your best friend of all should be Jesus. Show your friends how much you care. Be like Jesus.
PRAYER
"Lord, increase my hunger for you and for your way of happiness. Make me rich in the things of heaven and give me a generous heart that I may freely share with others the treasure you have given to me."
Jun 09, 2005
There was a little boy with a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, to hammer a nail in the back fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Then it gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.
Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out.
It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their hearts to us.
But your best friend of all should be Jesus. Show your friends how much you care. Be like Jesus.
PRAYER
"Lord, increase my hunger for you and for your way of happiness. Make me rich in the things of heaven and give me a generous heart that I may freely share with others the treasure you have given to me."
INVISIBLE INK
Contributed by Sally I. Kennedy
Jun 10, 2005
From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. Romans 1:20
Did you ever see one of those disappearing-ink trick pens when you were a kid? They were right on the shelves with the hot pepper gum and the squirt ring. We thought it was cool, you'd write with it and then the words would vanish after awhile.
How about writing a secret letter in magic ink (lemon juice)? The paper would appear blank when the juice/ink dried. The recipient would iron it, or hold it up to a light bulb, and the writing would be just visible enough to read.
On all birth certificates, there's a place to write in "father's name" and "mother's name". Regardless of what is written on yours, since time immemorial what has been there is Father - God Written in ink, invisible to the natural eye, but visible to the eyes of our soul. Now that ink beats all!!
"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; What is essential is invisible to the eye." The Little Prince ........Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Jun 10, 2005
From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. Romans 1:20
Did you ever see one of those disappearing-ink trick pens when you were a kid? They were right on the shelves with the hot pepper gum and the squirt ring. We thought it was cool, you'd write with it and then the words would vanish after awhile.
How about writing a secret letter in magic ink (lemon juice)? The paper would appear blank when the juice/ink dried. The recipient would iron it, or hold it up to a light bulb, and the writing would be just visible enough to read.
On all birth certificates, there's a place to write in "father's name" and "mother's name". Regardless of what is written on yours, since time immemorial what has been there is Father - God Written in ink, invisible to the natural eye, but visible to the eyes of our soul. Now that ink beats all!!
"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; What is essential is invisible to the eye." The Little Prince ........Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
A LOT OF QUESTIONS
Contributed by Sally I. Kennedy
Jun 11, 2005
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace." John 16:33
If I live to be a hundred there are some things I will never understand. Why do some people live, and some die? Why do some people have debilitating diseases and others, perfect health? Why do some have loads of money and others struggle to survive? Why do some get caught and others go free? Why do some people recover and get well, others don't?
Don't we all wonder about these questions? I do, from time to time, and my answer is always the same, "I don't know." I don't know much, and even less the older I get. My list of questions I want to ask when I get to heaven is pretty long.
In this life, there are a lot of mysteries. We will not humanly understand many things. Yet underlying all the unknowns is the one great thing we do know: God is still on his throne. He is still sovereign, still in charge. He knows what is going on. He doesn't just wake up one morning, look down, and say, "Oh my gosh! Look at that!!"
We may not be able to trust in the system, in people, in circumstances or luck. But we can trust in the Lord God. And the promise is that one day, every tear shall be wiped away. Every sickness, every injustice, every heartache.
Jesus said we will surely have troubles here on earth, but to be undaunted and confident because He has overcome the world's power to harm us permanently.
Bottom-line, the answer to all these questions really is- hang onto the promise, and hold onto the the Lord.
Jun 11, 2005
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace." John 16:33
If I live to be a hundred there are some things I will never understand. Why do some people live, and some die? Why do some people have debilitating diseases and others, perfect health? Why do some have loads of money and others struggle to survive? Why do some get caught and others go free? Why do some people recover and get well, others don't?
Don't we all wonder about these questions? I do, from time to time, and my answer is always the same, "I don't know." I don't know much, and even less the older I get. My list of questions I want to ask when I get to heaven is pretty long.
In this life, there are a lot of mysteries. We will not humanly understand many things. Yet underlying all the unknowns is the one great thing we do know: God is still on his throne. He is still sovereign, still in charge. He knows what is going on. He doesn't just wake up one morning, look down, and say, "Oh my gosh! Look at that!!"
We may not be able to trust in the system, in people, in circumstances or luck. But we can trust in the Lord God. And the promise is that one day, every tear shall be wiped away. Every sickness, every injustice, every heartache.
Jesus said we will surely have troubles here on earth, but to be undaunted and confident because He has overcome the world's power to harm us permanently.
Bottom-line, the answer to all these questions really is- hang onto the promise, and hold onto the the Lord.
BACK COVERS
BACK COVERS
Contributed by Sally I. Kennedy
Jun 15, 2005
" ....be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."Ephesians
6:18 There's a popular _expression, 'He's an open book.' If people were
books, the back covers would be just as important, or more so, than the
front covers.
The front cover provides minimal information: title and author and
something nice, like a photo or graphic design. The back cover usually
contains lots of information: endorsements, an author blurb, what the
book is about and why you should buy it and read it. Often we are
assaulted, emotionally or spiritually, in our most vulnerable places.
Coming up from behind, attacking from the back, is the sneaky way to do
it. Another _expression comes to mind: 'stabbed in the back'.
It is wonderful and wise to daily "put on the armor of God", as we are
instructed by St. Paul in the bible (Ephesians, sicth chapter). However
even with the breastplate, which covers all our shoulder area and
front, protecting some vital organs, our backs are still bared. Picture
a circle of people, all facing forward, side by side. Now picture the
same circle as each person turns to the right. This is how we
ourselves, can be the protection for another's back attacks. We can
cover each other's backs by blanketing them with prayer. Intercession
for another person couldn't be easier: 'Lord, please bless____ ."
These prayers of the saints are so important that they are referred to
as the incense that fills the golden bowls in the throne room of God
(Rev. 5:8).
Thank the Lord, He has provided human back covers: none other than the
saints - who just happen to be us.
PRAYER
"Lord Jesus, grant this day, to direct and sanctify, to rule and govern
our hearts and bodies, so that all our thoughts, words and deeds may be
according to your Father's law and thus may we be saved and protected
through your mighty help."
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