What do you want for Christmas this year? The answer to that question has changed (or at least should have changed) from year to year as we grow older. Our ideas of toys change as we mature. Instead of little girls asking for the latest dolls, they likely ask for jewelry, make-up, or clothes. The little boys who were thrilled with cars, footballs, or moto-cross bikes, now look forward to tools, recliners, or electronic gadgets.
I remember when I was nine years old, I got that electric Monday Night Football game. The one with plastic men on a plastic football field with a battery operated vibrator that caused the men to move all over the field. Last week, I asked for a weed-eater. Of course, I mentioned a few other things, too, but you get the idea.
Shifting gears to a more serious note though, what do you really want for Christmas this year? The complete flipside might cause us to beg for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. I overheard the complaints of a lady in a crowded line at McDonald's recently. I so much wanted to approach her, smile and say, "Merry Christmas!"
Realistically, in thinking about giving this year, could we seek to give more grace? What about kindness and gentleness? Could we spread the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ to those with whom we come in contact? Paul wrote to the Galatians that we should exemplify love, joy, peace, gentleness, etc. (see 5:22-23)
God's gift to mankind came in the form of a Baby. As a young man, Jesus willingly gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sin. He has set the example of giving. As we willingly give our lives to serve God, let's do it by giving the fruit of the Spirit to our fellow-man.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
What's In A Story?
Everyone has a story to tell. For some, it may be a story of fame and fortune. For others, one of hardship and difficulty. Still others may have a story of adventure while some may seem, well, less than adventuresome.
I took my high school history class while attending a Christian school. The teacher reminded us that history was simply HIS story; referring to God's story. So, that ancient history class began at Creation.
Fanny J. Crosby, the writer of thousands of hymns, wrote, "This is my story, this is my song. Praising my Savior, all the day long!" Her story was one of praising her Savior. She found a way, although blinded from childhood, to praise God. Her life, her story, was marked by praising the One she loved most.
What's your story? This Christmas season, be encouraged to allow your story to impact those around you with the ultimate story of the Savior. He came to give us a reason to sing. He came to give us life, full and abundant!
I took my high school history class while attending a Christian school. The teacher reminded us that history was simply HIS story; referring to God's story. So, that ancient history class began at Creation.
Fanny J. Crosby, the writer of thousands of hymns, wrote, "This is my story, this is my song. Praising my Savior, all the day long!" Her story was one of praising her Savior. She found a way, although blinded from childhood, to praise God. Her life, her story, was marked by praising the One she loved most.
What's your story? This Christmas season, be encouraged to allow your story to impact those around you with the ultimate story of the Savior. He came to give us a reason to sing. He came to give us life, full and abundant!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
He Keeps Me Singing!
One of my favorite hymns begins by saying, "There's within my heart a melody!" One of my favorite Psalms says, "He has put a new song in my mouth..." (40:3). I love to sing! Among my life-long passions has been to sing about the Good News of Jesus.
Several years ago, I had the privilege of singing with a group of friends for a video / audio recording. It was done "Gaither-style", a choir made up of various soloists and groups who would also perform individually. The title of the project was He Keeps Me Singing! What a hymn!
Recently, I began singing with a quartet. One of the songs we have used early in our services has been, "He Keeps Me Singing!" The faces in the congregations where we have sung that song are filled with joyous expressions. Many find themselves singing along and / or clapping to the beat.
Is there a song in your heart? Is there a melody ringing within your soul that needs to be shared with someone? Perhaps you'd like to share your favorite hymn or gospel song with a friend. Allow the melody in your heart to be as a cup overflowing with joy. Let that joy spill over on someone today who may need some encouragement.
Several years ago, I had the privilege of singing with a group of friends for a video / audio recording. It was done "Gaither-style", a choir made up of various soloists and groups who would also perform individually. The title of the project was He Keeps Me Singing! What a hymn!
Recently, I began singing with a quartet. One of the songs we have used early in our services has been, "He Keeps Me Singing!" The faces in the congregations where we have sung that song are filled with joyous expressions. Many find themselves singing along and / or clapping to the beat.
Is there a song in your heart? Is there a melody ringing within your soul that needs to be shared with someone? Perhaps you'd like to share your favorite hymn or gospel song with a friend. Allow the melody in your heart to be as a cup overflowing with joy. Let that joy spill over on someone today who may need some encouragement.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Christmas Traditions
As a young boy growing up, our family always lived a bit of a distance away from our extended family. And, because my grandparents lived in different states, it meant we had to choose which family to visit for the Christmas holiday. Very rare was the year when we would be able to visit both.
Each set of extended family had their own "traditions." For example, I remember on Christmas Day gathering in the living room at my grandmother's home in Alabama to open gifts. One of the grandchildren would be the appointed Santa Claus for that year and hand out the gifts. We could always tell when a 'gag gift' was going to be given. The guilty wrapper had a camera pointed at the wrappee when it was about to be opened. Many laughs were shared around the fireplace and the Christmas tree.
Now, we're older. Grandmama has gone on to be with Jesus, as has my aunt, my dad, and a cousin. My generation has families of our own, and it is difficult to all get together again. We have begun our own Christmas traditions. My daughters will only hear stories of Christmases past, and it is my priviledge to share them. Being able to share the memories of those traditions is actually one of the highlights of being a dad.
One tradition has not changed in all the years. Someone, no matter where we are, will read at least one of the Christmas accounts from Scripture. When Mary and Joseph couldn't get into the inn, but had to sleep in the barn; Jesus was born, and because there was no crib, was laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes. We'll read about the angels telling the shepherds who were minding their own business in the field, but dropped everything to come running to the city. We'll read how those shepherds, the typically rejected in society, would be among the first to welcome Jesus to Earth from His splendor of Heaven. We'll read of their excitement as they are able to spread the news to anyone else who will listen.
Therein lies the point. My job as a parent is to share with my children the excitement of what Christmas is all about. Not necessarily the material gifts wrapped under the Christmas tree. As much fun as it is to have one of those white elephant gifts waiting to be unwrapped by an unsuspecting family member in good humor, the important part of this day is remembering that we are here to celebrate Jesus. As we spend time with our family traditions, make sure one of yours is to take the time to read about the real reason for Christmas. From the Bible. The New Testament books of Matthew (chapter 1) and Luke (chapter 2) give those accounts. If that isn't yet a tradition of yours, let 2010 be the most important year to date, and begin to share with your family the real Christmas story.
I'd love to hear your Christmas ideas and creative ways of sharing the all-important Christmas account with your family this year.
Blessings, my friends!
Each set of extended family had their own "traditions." For example, I remember on Christmas Day gathering in the living room at my grandmother's home in Alabama to open gifts. One of the grandchildren would be the appointed Santa Claus for that year and hand out the gifts. We could always tell when a 'gag gift' was going to be given. The guilty wrapper had a camera pointed at the wrappee when it was about to be opened. Many laughs were shared around the fireplace and the Christmas tree.
Now, we're older. Grandmama has gone on to be with Jesus, as has my aunt, my dad, and a cousin. My generation has families of our own, and it is difficult to all get together again. We have begun our own Christmas traditions. My daughters will only hear stories of Christmases past, and it is my priviledge to share them. Being able to share the memories of those traditions is actually one of the highlights of being a dad.
One tradition has not changed in all the years. Someone, no matter where we are, will read at least one of the Christmas accounts from Scripture. When Mary and Joseph couldn't get into the inn, but had to sleep in the barn; Jesus was born, and because there was no crib, was laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes. We'll read about the angels telling the shepherds who were minding their own business in the field, but dropped everything to come running to the city. We'll read how those shepherds, the typically rejected in society, would be among the first to welcome Jesus to Earth from His splendor of Heaven. We'll read of their excitement as they are able to spread the news to anyone else who will listen.
Therein lies the point. My job as a parent is to share with my children the excitement of what Christmas is all about. Not necessarily the material gifts wrapped under the Christmas tree. As much fun as it is to have one of those white elephant gifts waiting to be unwrapped by an unsuspecting family member in good humor, the important part of this day is remembering that we are here to celebrate Jesus. As we spend time with our family traditions, make sure one of yours is to take the time to read about the real reason for Christmas. From the Bible. The New Testament books of Matthew (chapter 1) and Luke (chapter 2) give those accounts. If that isn't yet a tradition of yours, let 2010 be the most important year to date, and begin to share with your family the real Christmas story.
I'd love to hear your Christmas ideas and creative ways of sharing the all-important Christmas account with your family this year.
Blessings, my friends!
What's Wrong With Merry Christmas?
We live in an increasingly politically correct culture. In a society that prefers Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays, I'll confess that I'm not a very politically correct person. Especially when it pertains to Christmas!
Approaching this Christmas season, the thought occurred to me that we only hear this struggle at Christmas. The other holidays of the year are treated with greetings of their own merit. From Valentine's Day to Veteran's Day, each holiday seems to have it's own greeting.
While some may argue that we group Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's in order to refer to the season or holidays, both Thanksgiving and New Year's seems to have their own greeting ~ leaving Christmas out in the proverbial cold. (There is absolutely no seasonal pun intended there!) Incidentally, before the freedom from religion card gets played, I would suggest that even Hanukkah and Kwanzaa gets their own respect from a culture that seems to refuse Christmas the same.
Would you join me in wishing those in your sphere of influence a very Merry Christmas? A genuine smile and a Merry Christmas could go a long way in making someone's day!
Approaching this Christmas season, the thought occurred to me that we only hear this struggle at Christmas. The other holidays of the year are treated with greetings of their own merit. From Valentine's Day to Veteran's Day, each holiday seems to have it's own greeting.
While some may argue that we group Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's in order to refer to the season or holidays, both Thanksgiving and New Year's seems to have their own greeting ~ leaving Christmas out in the proverbial cold. (There is absolutely no seasonal pun intended there!) Incidentally, before the freedom from religion card gets played, I would suggest that even Hanukkah and Kwanzaa gets their own respect from a culture that seems to refuse Christmas the same.
Would you join me in wishing those in your sphere of influence a very Merry Christmas? A genuine smile and a Merry Christmas could go a long way in making someone's day!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Does God really have a plan?
A few years ago, Rick Warren wrote a book that was all the rage in Christian circles. I read it, you might have as well. It was The Purpose Driven Church. I learned some valuable lessons from reading that book. He followed it with what some contend a book that should have been written first ~ The Purpose Driven Life.
I read that one, too. I learned even more valuable lessons. We were placed here for a purpose. God has a plan for each of us. There are some plans that are obvious, some are not quite so obvious. For instance, in Peter's New Testament letter that bears his name, he wrote that God was not willing that any should perish, but that all of us should come to repentance. Paraphrasing, God's plan would be that each person on earth would trust Him with their lives and believe in Him for salvation.
Other plans God may have for us are not quite so obvious. Do I go to this college or that one? Do I take this job or stay where I am? Those are not answered directly in Scripture, and since God does not choose to send e-mails or attach notes to His lightning bolts, we must make those decisions with the information that we do have that best meets the needs we are experiencing.
Not long ago, on Wednesday nights at our church, we used Andy Landers video series about Finding God's Will. Never fear, I learned a lot of lessons then, too. In fact, I just read back through the study guide to review some of the principles he shared. What a challenge to earnestly seek what God wants in our lives! One of the brightest thoughts I was reminded of is that God wants to reveal His plan to us probably more than we want to discover it!
God has no desire to make His plan some mystical, hard to find deal. He wants us to enjoy the life He has given us; living it in such a way as to build His Kingdom here on earth til He returns. Along the way, our job is really quite simple. Honor God with everything we have. Love Him supremely, and our fellowman in such a way that would show His love to them.
Be encouraged to make that your goal today. Live your life today with the intentional focus of following the plan He has outlined for you. Love God with all your heart, love your neighbor as yourself.
I read that one, too. I learned even more valuable lessons. We were placed here for a purpose. God has a plan for each of us. There are some plans that are obvious, some are not quite so obvious. For instance, in Peter's New Testament letter that bears his name, he wrote that God was not willing that any should perish, but that all of us should come to repentance. Paraphrasing, God's plan would be that each person on earth would trust Him with their lives and believe in Him for salvation.
Other plans God may have for us are not quite so obvious. Do I go to this college or that one? Do I take this job or stay where I am? Those are not answered directly in Scripture, and since God does not choose to send e-mails or attach notes to His lightning bolts, we must make those decisions with the information that we do have that best meets the needs we are experiencing.
Not long ago, on Wednesday nights at our church, we used Andy Landers video series about Finding God's Will. Never fear, I learned a lot of lessons then, too. In fact, I just read back through the study guide to review some of the principles he shared. What a challenge to earnestly seek what God wants in our lives! One of the brightest thoughts I was reminded of is that God wants to reveal His plan to us probably more than we want to discover it!
God has no desire to make His plan some mystical, hard to find deal. He wants us to enjoy the life He has given us; living it in such a way as to build His Kingdom here on earth til He returns. Along the way, our job is really quite simple. Honor God with everything we have. Love Him supremely, and our fellowman in such a way that would show His love to them.
Be encouraged to make that your goal today. Live your life today with the intentional focus of following the plan He has outlined for you. Love God with all your heart, love your neighbor as yourself.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Friendship
As a PK (Preacher's Kid), I moved around quite a bit while growing up. While I was younger, I despised that. It seemed that I was always moving away from friends. Today, with hindsight being 20/20, there are some pros and cons to that upbringing.
Sure, I'd like to look at one place and have the memories and roots to be able to call 'home', but I have to accept the fact that will never be the case. There is absolutely nothing that can be done about it now. Rather than dwell on the negatives, I choose to think about the positive results of my nomadic youth.
In every place I lived while growing up, I was fortunate to have a buddy to pal around with. There was Mark and Bruce, Jim and Chad, Billy and George, David, Wendell, Mal, Jamie, and Greg. Then, I went to college! The awesome people God strategically placed in my life have taught me to be able to adapt to various situations and accept people for who they are.
Adapting to differing locales has enabled me to relate to the diverse population I now encounter. In my work, I come in constant contact with people from all over the world. Many times, I have been able to relate to a person's home area because I've been there, have friends who live there, or I may have even lived there myself!
With the advent of all the social media these days, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc., my friends are rarely more than a mouse click away. Whether I speak directly with them daily or weekly, I still have a general idea of how they are doing. For example, a college friend is experiencing the grief of losing a loved one. I learned through Facebook, and was able to communicate to him that our family is praying for him and his family.
Scripture teaches that a friend loves at all times. God has granted me the opportunity to have friends all around the globe. I am so fortunate to have those whom God has used to positively shape and mold me with their influence. Be encouraged to love your friends as God loves you. Then, send a note or give them a call. Let them know you love them and appreciate them. They'll be encouraged, and you will, too!
Sure, I'd like to look at one place and have the memories and roots to be able to call 'home', but I have to accept the fact that will never be the case. There is absolutely nothing that can be done about it now. Rather than dwell on the negatives, I choose to think about the positive results of my nomadic youth.
In every place I lived while growing up, I was fortunate to have a buddy to pal around with. There was Mark and Bruce, Jim and Chad, Billy and George, David, Wendell, Mal, Jamie, and Greg. Then, I went to college! The awesome people God strategically placed in my life have taught me to be able to adapt to various situations and accept people for who they are.
Adapting to differing locales has enabled me to relate to the diverse population I now encounter. In my work, I come in constant contact with people from all over the world. Many times, I have been able to relate to a person's home area because I've been there, have friends who live there, or I may have even lived there myself!
With the advent of all the social media these days, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc., my friends are rarely more than a mouse click away. Whether I speak directly with them daily or weekly, I still have a general idea of how they are doing. For example, a college friend is experiencing the grief of losing a loved one. I learned through Facebook, and was able to communicate to him that our family is praying for him and his family.
Scripture teaches that a friend loves at all times. God has granted me the opportunity to have friends all around the globe. I am so fortunate to have those whom God has used to positively shape and mold me with their influence. Be encouraged to love your friends as God loves you. Then, send a note or give them a call. Let them know you love them and appreciate them. They'll be encouraged, and you will, too!
Monday, May 31, 2010
You Just THOUGHT You'd Seen It All!
I was working behind the desk at the hotel Memorial Day when a guest came through the lobby with a large, flat-screen television set. It's one thing to walk out with some of the items we offer for guests who forget things. You know, combs, razors and such. It gets a bit sketchy when they begin to walk out with towels and wash cloths ~ but a flat-screen television was a bit much!
He proceeded to tell me that it was his own set. His son insists on bringing their own TV set for video games; just in case the hotel's isn't compatible. I thought, "Wow, that's a first!" He invited me to go and check the room to make sure he wasn't walking out with ours. He said the door was unlocked. I politely waited for him to return to the lobby, and walked down to the room with him. Sure enough, our TV was still in its proper place.
I asked how old the son is. Are you ready for this one? The SON is 26! That's 26 YEARS OLD! It was hard work to keep my customer service mouth shut at that bomb that was dropped. I thought on the way back to my post at the front desk. This is really sad. Only trouble, I don't know which is worse ~ a 26 year old man insisting on bringing his own large flat-screen television on a trip for gaming purposes, or the dad being the one lugging it out to the car (limping, by the way), or the dad for agreeing to do it.
We are fast approaching Father's Day 2010. I wonder what this dad will get from this son for Father's Day?
Yep, I just THOUGHT I'd seen it all!
He proceeded to tell me that it was his own set. His son insists on bringing their own TV set for video games; just in case the hotel's isn't compatible. I thought, "Wow, that's a first!" He invited me to go and check the room to make sure he wasn't walking out with ours. He said the door was unlocked. I politely waited for him to return to the lobby, and walked down to the room with him. Sure enough, our TV was still in its proper place.
I asked how old the son is. Are you ready for this one? The SON is 26! That's 26 YEARS OLD! It was hard work to keep my customer service mouth shut at that bomb that was dropped. I thought on the way back to my post at the front desk. This is really sad. Only trouble, I don't know which is worse ~ a 26 year old man insisting on bringing his own large flat-screen television on a trip for gaming purposes, or the dad being the one lugging it out to the car (limping, by the way), or the dad for agreeing to do it.
We are fast approaching Father's Day 2010. I wonder what this dad will get from this son for Father's Day?
Yep, I just THOUGHT I'd seen it all!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Character Building in Sports
Although I'm not a huge fan of the NBA, I am a sports fan. I'm a regular viewer / listener to ESPN television and radio. One of my favorite segments of ESPN's Mike and Mike in the Morning is What People Are Talking About. This is where they give the 'headlines' of the sports world. If you want to know what the hot topics are for that morning around the water cooler at work, they can summarize them for you in five minutes or less.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics are playing a playoff series. The Cleveland star is a native-son of Ohio, Lebron James. With the best of seven series tied at two games apiece, playing on their home floor, Mr. James and Cavs just didn't play to their level of ability. The Celtics dominated and travel home to Boston and need to only win one of the next two games to advance to the next round.
What's the big deal, you may ask? The city of Cleveland hasn't had a championship for their city in a long, long time. This is their best chance in the minds of many. What's even more antsy is the contract of Lebron James expires this year. Will he be back next year? After all, without him, there is absolutely NO CHANCE of Cleveland winning.
James didn't give his best effort. The team didn't rally around him while he was having a bad night. I even heard some say he did this on purpose. People are beginning to question the legacy he will leave behind. His response to that last line actually impressed me. Summarizing what he said, I'm only 25 years old. I've got plenty of playing time left. It's too early to think of my legacy as a basketball player.
Everyone will have a bad day. It is physically and humanly impossible to be on top of your game every night. Cleveland fans, be thankful this is the NBA and not the NCAA. One bad game in the NCAA tournament of March Madness and your toast! So, if this were the NCAA, the Cavs would be done. Finished. Packing up their lockers. If the Celtics win the series, that means they're probably the better team.
The overall point of this is to remind you that Lebron James is not the only person on the Cleveland Cavaliers team. If the Celtics win the series, chances are they are the better team. And Cleveland, there is life after getting so close ~ again. Let's face it, I'm a fan of all teams Georgia. I know plenty about waiting til next year. The best thing about being a Braves, Falcons, Hawks, and DAWGS fan is not being a Mets/Yankees, Patriots, Lakers, and Gators/Jackets fan. OK that last line is just in jest, but seriously, as much as I want my favorite teams to win, life does go on. There's winning, and there's character-building. Sometimes, our character needs just a little fine-tuning.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics are playing a playoff series. The Cleveland star is a native-son of Ohio, Lebron James. With the best of seven series tied at two games apiece, playing on their home floor, Mr. James and Cavs just didn't play to their level of ability. The Celtics dominated and travel home to Boston and need to only win one of the next two games to advance to the next round.
What's the big deal, you may ask? The city of Cleveland hasn't had a championship for their city in a long, long time. This is their best chance in the minds of many. What's even more antsy is the contract of Lebron James expires this year. Will he be back next year? After all, without him, there is absolutely NO CHANCE of Cleveland winning.
James didn't give his best effort. The team didn't rally around him while he was having a bad night. I even heard some say he did this on purpose. People are beginning to question the legacy he will leave behind. His response to that last line actually impressed me. Summarizing what he said, I'm only 25 years old. I've got plenty of playing time left. It's too early to think of my legacy as a basketball player.
Everyone will have a bad day. It is physically and humanly impossible to be on top of your game every night. Cleveland fans, be thankful this is the NBA and not the NCAA. One bad game in the NCAA tournament of March Madness and your toast! So, if this were the NCAA, the Cavs would be done. Finished. Packing up their lockers. If the Celtics win the series, that means they're probably the better team.
The overall point of this is to remind you that Lebron James is not the only person on the Cleveland Cavaliers team. If the Celtics win the series, chances are they are the better team. And Cleveland, there is life after getting so close ~ again. Let's face it, I'm a fan of all teams Georgia. I know plenty about waiting til next year. The best thing about being a Braves, Falcons, Hawks, and DAWGS fan is not being a Mets/Yankees, Patriots, Lakers, and Gators/Jackets fan. OK that last line is just in jest, but seriously, as much as I want my favorite teams to win, life does go on. There's winning, and there's character-building. Sometimes, our character needs just a little fine-tuning.
The Beauty of Childhood
My not quite two-year old great-niece is visiting her grandparents this week. Because they live a good distance away, I don't get a chance to see her very often, so quite honestly, I wasn't sure how receptive she would be to her Uncle Steve.
I was pleasantly surprised that not long after we were in the same room, she held out her arms to come to me ~ with no coaxing from me, at all! Then I was quickly reminded that I was the closest person to her sippy cup of chocolate milk! So much for that shot of grown-up confidence.
After church, several friends and family members made the trek to our local McDonald's for ice cream. Obviously the little one was the center of attention. Cameras were constantly pointed in her direction. She noticed a camera pointed at her, stopped what she was doing and, without prompting at all, yelled, "Cheese!"
My wife and I have two daughters of our own. One is about to graduate from High School. My wife and I reflected this evening at McDonald's about how we can remember various things that our daughters did at that age, but it is so hard to remember life with them that small.
Its really a weird feeling. There's almost a glaze of memory of them being toddlers. I know I changed my share of diapers, put them in and out of car seats, remember them crying and laughing, bottle-feeding ~ the works. But to look at a picture of them individually as babies, its hard to tell which one is which. If my life were to depend on my remembering specifics about our lives when they were toddlers, go ahead and shoot me now.
The beauty of childhood is found in them growing up. The past 17 1/2 years of parenting have certainly had its ups and downs. As I reflect on those years, now with my eldest about to graduate from high school, God has been gracious. As I think about the love for Christ that my daughters exhibit, I'm thankful. It isn't uncommon to knock on the bedroom door of one of my daughters, and when I walk in, find them reading God's Word. Wow.
Was parenting my daughters all peachy? Do I want to re-live any of it? No, and no. There were heart-wrenching decisions that had to be made that I do not want to make again. There were times I had to say, "No." I didn't always enjoy that. But my daughters are becoming young ladies, and I'm proud of them. Both of them.
The beauty of childhood is being able to share the importance and opportunity of enjoying a relationship with Christ. As young children, I had the priviledge of pointing my children to that relationship and leading them to an appreciation of Him. I had the opportunity of being their pastor for 10 years, and baptized each of them.
Where did the time go? I suppose it's flowed under many bridges. I'm just thankful that we got an early start on the finer things of life. Not money and fame, but the quality time of sharing and pointing them to Jesus. And that little neice of mine? She's well on her way to the same type of childhood / adolescence. Gotta love the beauty of childhood!
I was pleasantly surprised that not long after we were in the same room, she held out her arms to come to me ~ with no coaxing from me, at all! Then I was quickly reminded that I was the closest person to her sippy cup of chocolate milk! So much for that shot of grown-up confidence.
After church, several friends and family members made the trek to our local McDonald's for ice cream. Obviously the little one was the center of attention. Cameras were constantly pointed in her direction. She noticed a camera pointed at her, stopped what she was doing and, without prompting at all, yelled, "Cheese!"
My wife and I have two daughters of our own. One is about to graduate from High School. My wife and I reflected this evening at McDonald's about how we can remember various things that our daughters did at that age, but it is so hard to remember life with them that small.
Its really a weird feeling. There's almost a glaze of memory of them being toddlers. I know I changed my share of diapers, put them in and out of car seats, remember them crying and laughing, bottle-feeding ~ the works. But to look at a picture of them individually as babies, its hard to tell which one is which. If my life were to depend on my remembering specifics about our lives when they were toddlers, go ahead and shoot me now.
The beauty of childhood is found in them growing up. The past 17 1/2 years of parenting have certainly had its ups and downs. As I reflect on those years, now with my eldest about to graduate from high school, God has been gracious. As I think about the love for Christ that my daughters exhibit, I'm thankful. It isn't uncommon to knock on the bedroom door of one of my daughters, and when I walk in, find them reading God's Word. Wow.
Was parenting my daughters all peachy? Do I want to re-live any of it? No, and no. There were heart-wrenching decisions that had to be made that I do not want to make again. There were times I had to say, "No." I didn't always enjoy that. But my daughters are becoming young ladies, and I'm proud of them. Both of them.
The beauty of childhood is being able to share the importance and opportunity of enjoying a relationship with Christ. As young children, I had the priviledge of pointing my children to that relationship and leading them to an appreciation of Him. I had the opportunity of being their pastor for 10 years, and baptized each of them.
Where did the time go? I suppose it's flowed under many bridges. I'm just thankful that we got an early start on the finer things of life. Not money and fame, but the quality time of sharing and pointing them to Jesus. And that little neice of mine? She's well on her way to the same type of childhood / adolescence. Gotta love the beauty of childhood!
Loving God Leads to Loving People
I remember well seeing pictures of the flood in the St. Louis area back in the 90s. Albany, GA had their share of flooding a few years earlier, and then another flood in the 90s that didn't do quite the damage to the southwest region of GA. I remember seeing the devastation caused by hurricanes ~ Andrew, Francis and Jeane, and Katrina.
There have been tornadoes across the plains, hurricanes along the coasts, mining accidents in the mountains, explosions and oil spills in the oceans / gulfs. There are earthquakes (typically) out west, and yes, also in Haiti. Volcanoes make up much of Hawaii, and apparently northern Europe, too. We cannot outrun weather, natural disasters, and unfortunate occurances of human error or other accidents.
As I watched film and looked at still photos of the flood in Nashville and the tornadoes in Oklahoma, my heart went out to my friends there. I suppose there is a distinct difference when friends are involved as opposed to seeing something on the news and being desensitized by it all. Yes, they suffered in the earthquake in Haiti. Yes, it was a terrible tragedy in the Gulf of Mexico. It was heart-wrenching watching the rescue efforts in the West Virginia coal mine.
But as I thought of the Hunters, Jones, Deels, Greenwoods, Carmacks, Markins ~ the list goes on and on ~ my heart hurt. Yes, there were many other names I could put on that list, but it would take more space than you would want to read. These are real names of real people with real homes. Some homes were damaged, some essentially destroyed. Some were spared, and for that we are grateful.
The one thing that has, and is, characterizing the people of Nashville, is their pro-active manner in cleaning up and reconstruction. The general population of Nashville did not sit on their hands waiting on the governor or President to authorize financial aid. They began the work on Monday morning. Churches and families came together and helped. Strangers who were spared damage got out and helped those who were hurting. People from across this great land of ours came to the aid of people in Nashville.
Its good the government can help. I'm sure the people there are thankful for it. But the strength of these people are not in how fast the government financial aid can arrive. The strength of these people is in the character of helping one another. One church in Nashville has as its slogan this year (even before the storm), Loving God, Loving People. That's what Christianity is all about. That's what a relationship with Jesus will produce.
Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote a song by a similar title ~ Loving God, Loving Each Other. We're praying for you, Nashville and Oklahoma City. Thank you for teaching America that loving God leads to loving people.
There have been tornadoes across the plains, hurricanes along the coasts, mining accidents in the mountains, explosions and oil spills in the oceans / gulfs. There are earthquakes (typically) out west, and yes, also in Haiti. Volcanoes make up much of Hawaii, and apparently northern Europe, too. We cannot outrun weather, natural disasters, and unfortunate occurances of human error or other accidents.
As I watched film and looked at still photos of the flood in Nashville and the tornadoes in Oklahoma, my heart went out to my friends there. I suppose there is a distinct difference when friends are involved as opposed to seeing something on the news and being desensitized by it all. Yes, they suffered in the earthquake in Haiti. Yes, it was a terrible tragedy in the Gulf of Mexico. It was heart-wrenching watching the rescue efforts in the West Virginia coal mine.
But as I thought of the Hunters, Jones, Deels, Greenwoods, Carmacks, Markins ~ the list goes on and on ~ my heart hurt. Yes, there were many other names I could put on that list, but it would take more space than you would want to read. These are real names of real people with real homes. Some homes were damaged, some essentially destroyed. Some were spared, and for that we are grateful.
The one thing that has, and is, characterizing the people of Nashville, is their pro-active manner in cleaning up and reconstruction. The general population of Nashville did not sit on their hands waiting on the governor or President to authorize financial aid. They began the work on Monday morning. Churches and families came together and helped. Strangers who were spared damage got out and helped those who were hurting. People from across this great land of ours came to the aid of people in Nashville.
Its good the government can help. I'm sure the people there are thankful for it. But the strength of these people are not in how fast the government financial aid can arrive. The strength of these people is in the character of helping one another. One church in Nashville has as its slogan this year (even before the storm), Loving God, Loving People. That's what Christianity is all about. That's what a relationship with Jesus will produce.
Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote a song by a similar title ~ Loving God, Loving Each Other. We're praying for you, Nashville and Oklahoma City. Thank you for teaching America that loving God leads to loving people.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes. Some of us make more than others, and certainly it seems we make more than our fair share. Mistakes come in many forms. There are mistakes that are just that ~ mistakes. Your mistake might be making a wrong turn, forgetting to buy milk, or forgetting to put said milk in the refrigerator after you went back to the store to buy it.
Other mistakes are far more serious. I'm referring to those mistakes that really should be called sin. We tend to gloss over some of the sin in our lives and just call them mistakes. While sins of commission certainly qualify as mistakes, we must come to a place in our lives when we deal with sin as sin, and repent of it. That repentance will result in running as far and as fast as we can away from the sin.
When we make a mistake, whether the wrong turn kind, or the more serious sinful kind, we should determine to learn from it. If I have been confronted by my sin, my remorse should never merely be one of being caught. The godly remorse shows sorrow and a genuine desire to make it right. Repentance will involve turning from sin and moving back toward Christ. He wants to forgive and restore our relationship with Him, but it cannot happen with known, unconfessed sin in our lives.
David, when he was confronted by Nathan in his sin with Bathsheba, prayed that God would create in him a clean heart, renew a right spirit within him, and restore the joy of his salvation. David promised that he would devote himself to teaching transgressors their ways. He learned from his mistake, er, sin, and earnestly sought God's forgiveness. It would produce a complete change of heart attitude in his life.
I'm thankful that God forgives our sin. I'm glad to be able to claim John's reminder that if we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). I'm glad God is gracious and longsuffering. He is patient with us and forgives us again and again. But, that's no excuse to keep on making the same mistakes, committing the same sin time and again.
While learning from our mistakes is vitally important, and God's grace continues to cover a multitude of sin, consider taking this thought with you: Living for Christ trumps any mistake we may learn from ~ all the time. In other words, don't try to see how many mistakes you can make so you can learn from them. Instead, strive to live for Christ all the time.
Other mistakes are far more serious. I'm referring to those mistakes that really should be called sin. We tend to gloss over some of the sin in our lives and just call them mistakes. While sins of commission certainly qualify as mistakes, we must come to a place in our lives when we deal with sin as sin, and repent of it. That repentance will result in running as far and as fast as we can away from the sin.
When we make a mistake, whether the wrong turn kind, or the more serious sinful kind, we should determine to learn from it. If I have been confronted by my sin, my remorse should never merely be one of being caught. The godly remorse shows sorrow and a genuine desire to make it right. Repentance will involve turning from sin and moving back toward Christ. He wants to forgive and restore our relationship with Him, but it cannot happen with known, unconfessed sin in our lives.
David, when he was confronted by Nathan in his sin with Bathsheba, prayed that God would create in him a clean heart, renew a right spirit within him, and restore the joy of his salvation. David promised that he would devote himself to teaching transgressors their ways. He learned from his mistake, er, sin, and earnestly sought God's forgiveness. It would produce a complete change of heart attitude in his life.
I'm thankful that God forgives our sin. I'm glad to be able to claim John's reminder that if we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). I'm glad God is gracious and longsuffering. He is patient with us and forgives us again and again. But, that's no excuse to keep on making the same mistakes, committing the same sin time and again.
While learning from our mistakes is vitally important, and God's grace continues to cover a multitude of sin, consider taking this thought with you: Living for Christ trumps any mistake we may learn from ~ all the time. In other words, don't try to see how many mistakes you can make so you can learn from them. Instead, strive to live for Christ all the time.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Resting Sports Stars ~ Good or Bad Practice?
Those who know me well understand that I am indeed a sports junkie. Some might even call me a sports geek. After all, I am the one who would listen to a looped sports talk show (one that is simply repeated every half-hour or hour, etc.) or watch a game that happened earlier, even if I've already seen it. Shoot, I'm the guy who would go to the game, have it recorded while I'm there, and then watch it when I get home!
Some of the sports pundits the last few days have been jawing back and forth about play-off bound teams resting their star players during the last few regular season games. They are understanably excusing those with minor, nagging injuries; in effort to have them as close to 100% ready for playoff action. The controversy comes about in resting players that are healthy and ready for action. The debate is lively on both sides of the coin, and I suppose there are convincing arguments either way.
While sitting in a restaurant recently, I posed the question to my 17-year old daughter from the business standpoint. The fan pays $100 for a ticket and wants to watch the team, including the star player, play. The star sits, and the fan feels slighted. Right or wrong, fair or foul, good or bad?
Her first reaction is, "It's just a game. I'm not going to pay $100 to sit there and watch grown men play a game, anyway." I see her point, but taking that human interest factor out of the equation, the fact remains, that the consumer is paying a chunk of change to watch a competitive game.
Consider this. The team has secured a spot in the playoffs. The coach does not want to risk unnecessary injury to a key player, and maybe the long season is taking its toll on the human body. Resting the player(s) can prove damaging to the routine of the athletes. Just ask the Indianapolis Colts. The athletes need to stay sharp and focused on the job at hand.
Put the starting players on the court (or field, as the case may be), let him get his statistical average, then let him sit. This accomplishes many goals: the athlete stays sharp and focused in his energies, the team does not lose the needed rhythm entering the postseason, the fans are able to see the stars AND the reserves who need the playing time. Everyone wins.
The injury factor is there in any sport. No one wants to get hurt, much less in a 'meaningless' game. But I submit, any game has meaning ~ to someone. Don't take away the competitive edge for any team. Make the game fair in every aspect. Start the same team you'd start if it were in the middle of the season. Its just the right thing to do.
Some of the sports pundits the last few days have been jawing back and forth about play-off bound teams resting their star players during the last few regular season games. They are understanably excusing those with minor, nagging injuries; in effort to have them as close to 100% ready for playoff action. The controversy comes about in resting players that are healthy and ready for action. The debate is lively on both sides of the coin, and I suppose there are convincing arguments either way.
While sitting in a restaurant recently, I posed the question to my 17-year old daughter from the business standpoint. The fan pays $100 for a ticket and wants to watch the team, including the star player, play. The star sits, and the fan feels slighted. Right or wrong, fair or foul, good or bad?
Her first reaction is, "It's just a game. I'm not going to pay $100 to sit there and watch grown men play a game, anyway." I see her point, but taking that human interest factor out of the equation, the fact remains, that the consumer is paying a chunk of change to watch a competitive game.
Consider this. The team has secured a spot in the playoffs. The coach does not want to risk unnecessary injury to a key player, and maybe the long season is taking its toll on the human body. Resting the player(s) can prove damaging to the routine of the athletes. Just ask the Indianapolis Colts. The athletes need to stay sharp and focused on the job at hand.
Put the starting players on the court (or field, as the case may be), let him get his statistical average, then let him sit. This accomplishes many goals: the athlete stays sharp and focused in his energies, the team does not lose the needed rhythm entering the postseason, the fans are able to see the stars AND the reserves who need the playing time. Everyone wins.
The injury factor is there in any sport. No one wants to get hurt, much less in a 'meaningless' game. But I submit, any game has meaning ~ to someone. Don't take away the competitive edge for any team. Make the game fair in every aspect. Start the same team you'd start if it were in the middle of the season. Its just the right thing to do.
Time Warp
I have known for some time that I needed to post a blog. For whatever reason, I've just not done it. Frankly, when I looked at the last time I had posted a blog, I was shocked. I didn't think it had been that long. Whew...
I hope you'll forgive the delay. It has seemed like life has moved at warp speed. My intentions are to get better at blogging ~ as opposed to clogging. In any event, stop by often. If I've not posted anything recently, go ahead and comment to that affect.
I hope you'll forgive the delay. It has seemed like life has moved at warp speed. My intentions are to get better at blogging ~ as opposed to clogging. In any event, stop by often. If I've not posted anything recently, go ahead and comment to that affect.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Comparing Miami's Celebration with Heaven's
The Super Bowl did not go as the experts thought it would. More people in the know predicted an Indianapolis victory than not. Although Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints were a quality football team, they just didn't stand a chance against Peyton's boys from Indy. Hey, I thought the same thing.
A person asked me not long after the game, "I thought Indianapolis was supposed to win. Everybody said they were going to." Now, this person is not a football fan by any stretch of the imagination, much less someone who would spend any amount of time analyzing the game and trying to speak intelligently about it. This person has values far higher than a football game. They did, however, keep their ear to the ground enough to know what the predictions were and how the game SHOULD have ended.
I reminded the youngster that they had just witnessed WHY the game is played. On paper, anyone could see the Colts should have won the game. But the sixty minutes of playing time revealed that New Orleans was, at least on this night, a better team.
Aside from the game, the commercials, or the conversation I had with a youngster afterward, the one thing that caught my attention was a close up of Drew Brees holding his son during the celebration. This little boy, not yet a year old, looked wide-eyed at all the flashing lights, confetti, and crowds, taking it all in. He didn't cry, he didn't talk or even appear to be making an audible sound, but his eyes told his story. There, in the arms of his dad, he was seeing things he had likely never seen before.
What do you suppose will be the very first reaction to the splendor of Heaven? How do you think the Apostle John felt as the wonders of Heaven were revealed to him on Patmos? These are just some of the things we can think about today in preparation for that awesome day in Heaven. I have a strong suspicion, though, that the little Brees' experience in Miami won't hold a candle to that one. That leads us to the most important question you will consider in your life on this side of eternity: Will you one day experience that sight? If there are any doubts, please post a reply with your e-mail, and I'd be more than happy to share with you privately how you can be certain of that experience.
A person asked me not long after the game, "I thought Indianapolis was supposed to win. Everybody said they were going to." Now, this person is not a football fan by any stretch of the imagination, much less someone who would spend any amount of time analyzing the game and trying to speak intelligently about it. This person has values far higher than a football game. They did, however, keep their ear to the ground enough to know what the predictions were and how the game SHOULD have ended.
I reminded the youngster that they had just witnessed WHY the game is played. On paper, anyone could see the Colts should have won the game. But the sixty minutes of playing time revealed that New Orleans was, at least on this night, a better team.
Aside from the game, the commercials, or the conversation I had with a youngster afterward, the one thing that caught my attention was a close up of Drew Brees holding his son during the celebration. This little boy, not yet a year old, looked wide-eyed at all the flashing lights, confetti, and crowds, taking it all in. He didn't cry, he didn't talk or even appear to be making an audible sound, but his eyes told his story. There, in the arms of his dad, he was seeing things he had likely never seen before.
What do you suppose will be the very first reaction to the splendor of Heaven? How do you think the Apostle John felt as the wonders of Heaven were revealed to him on Patmos? These are just some of the things we can think about today in preparation for that awesome day in Heaven. I have a strong suspicion, though, that the little Brees' experience in Miami won't hold a candle to that one. That leads us to the most important question you will consider in your life on this side of eternity: Will you one day experience that sight? If there are any doubts, please post a reply with your e-mail, and I'd be more than happy to share with you privately how you can be certain of that experience.
The (True) Tale of Two Guests
Not long ago I observed two guests who checked into a hotel. One was a lady of middle age, who did not appear to have much education beyond high school. She was friendly and kind, and pleasant to speak with. She carried herself with dignity and grace, and communicated effectively to the front desk staff. The second guest, a gentleman perhaps in his mid-50s, dressed successfully, and was overheard to mention his purpose of stay was research for a project. He was an architect, therefore a well-educated man.
What set these two guests apart was not their appearance, the vehicle in which they arrived, nor the communication abilities. Rather was the manner in which they brought their luggage / belongings into the hotel.
The lady of normal means and appearance secured one of the two available luggage carts and proceeded to bring in her belongings. Both bags. Yes, that's all, just two bags. She made the trip to the elevator and to her room just fine, thank you. The luggage cart was used to perfection.
The architect, however, parked his car under the canopy and made his first trip to his assigned room with a load of luggage. He came back downstairs for a second load. This time he struggled just a bit with the awkward equipment he was bringing in. A third load and he was almost finished. A look of desperation was on his face on his fourth and final trip. Finally, he could come back downstairs and move his car to a parking place in the lot.
I couldn't help but chuckle a bit as I compared these two guests, literally checking in within minutes of one another. Being a minister, these are the kinds of events that are spiritualized. How often do we try to make our relationship with Jesus to be so difficult? We tend to try to carry the load all on ourselves. We become weary at the tasks that could be made so much simpler.
Scripture teaches us that Jesus wants to lighten our load and carry our burden. Have you allowed Him to do that in your own life?
What set these two guests apart was not their appearance, the vehicle in which they arrived, nor the communication abilities. Rather was the manner in which they brought their luggage / belongings into the hotel.
The lady of normal means and appearance secured one of the two available luggage carts and proceeded to bring in her belongings. Both bags. Yes, that's all, just two bags. She made the trip to the elevator and to her room just fine, thank you. The luggage cart was used to perfection.
The architect, however, parked his car under the canopy and made his first trip to his assigned room with a load of luggage. He came back downstairs for a second load. This time he struggled just a bit with the awkward equipment he was bringing in. A third load and he was almost finished. A look of desperation was on his face on his fourth and final trip. Finally, he could come back downstairs and move his car to a parking place in the lot.
I couldn't help but chuckle a bit as I compared these two guests, literally checking in within minutes of one another. Being a minister, these are the kinds of events that are spiritualized. How often do we try to make our relationship with Jesus to be so difficult? We tend to try to carry the load all on ourselves. We become weary at the tasks that could be made so much simpler.
Scripture teaches us that Jesus wants to lighten our load and carry our burden. Have you allowed Him to do that in your own life?
Friday, January 22, 2010
How Well Do You Know God?
Among the passages of Scripture that ministers to me time and time again is Paul's letter to the Philippians. In the letter, he writes to them (3:10), of his desire to know God and the power of His resurrection.
Do you long to know God? Do you have a desire to fellowship with the Creator of the Universe? He encourages and invites us to do just that. To know God involves communication with Him. As we learn to commune with Him more and more, He reveals more of Himself to us. We can begin to understand Him better.
It has always been intriguing to me that people choose not to read the Bible because they do not understand it. Though it may sound contradictory to nature, the Bible is a book that becomes easier to understand the more we read. The more we invest in trying to understand, the more God will reveal Himself to us.
Knowing God is not an accident. Knowing God is a choice of commitment to Him. It is the concept of contentment in being able to trust Him with our lives. Knowing God is the courage of changing our minds to be more like His. Will you accept the challenge to chart the course of your life to know God in all His glory?
Do you long to know God? Do you have a desire to fellowship with the Creator of the Universe? He encourages and invites us to do just that. To know God involves communication with Him. As we learn to commune with Him more and more, He reveals more of Himself to us. We can begin to understand Him better.
It has always been intriguing to me that people choose not to read the Bible because they do not understand it. Though it may sound contradictory to nature, the Bible is a book that becomes easier to understand the more we read. The more we invest in trying to understand, the more God will reveal Himself to us.
Knowing God is not an accident. Knowing God is a choice of commitment to Him. It is the concept of contentment in being able to trust Him with our lives. Knowing God is the courage of changing our minds to be more like His. Will you accept the challenge to chart the course of your life to know God in all His glory?
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Joy of Intercessory Prayer
It was the middle of the night when I received a tweet from a friend about her father who was being rushed to the hospital. This dad had been battling some physical issues for a few months and it was rearing its ugly head again. She texted me that she wanted to pray, but when she tried, nothing came out. As I thought about that statement, I saw a difference in a well-known predicament that sometimes when we pray, it seems our prayers only hit the ceiling. She wasn't dealing with some "prayer-to-the-ceiling" syndrome. This is a helpless, overwhelming feeling that is indescribeably painful.
As I thought about how to respond, my mind went to the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Romans. Paraphrasing, he said the Spirit understands our weaknesses and when we can't pray, He prays for us. He intercedes on our behalf to the Father! When I don't know what to say, He says it for me!
What a blessing to know we have a Father in Heaven who loves us enough to extend His grace and comfort to us. What a joy, knowing that even in my most uncertain times, I can be certain He is interceding on my behalf. When I'm experiencing the most hurt, even beyond being able to verbalize it, He is praying for me!
In an effort to fully release the purpose of the Holy Spirit's intercession in your life, consider these practical habits to make a part of your life.
-> Ensure your personal response prepares you for eternity with Christ.
-> Enjoy resting in the peace that passes all understanding.
-> Experience the reassuring presence of His Holy Spirit to comfort you in your emotional hurts and struggles.
As I thought about how to respond, my mind went to the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Romans. Paraphrasing, he said the Spirit understands our weaknesses and when we can't pray, He prays for us. He intercedes on our behalf to the Father! When I don't know what to say, He says it for me!
What a blessing to know we have a Father in Heaven who loves us enough to extend His grace and comfort to us. What a joy, knowing that even in my most uncertain times, I can be certain He is interceding on my behalf. When I'm experiencing the most hurt, even beyond being able to verbalize it, He is praying for me!
In an effort to fully release the purpose of the Holy Spirit's intercession in your life, consider these practical habits to make a part of your life.
-> Ensure your personal response prepares you for eternity with Christ.
-> Enjoy resting in the peace that passes all understanding.
-> Experience the reassuring presence of His Holy Spirit to comfort you in your emotional hurts and struggles.
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