The democrats, and other liberals in this country, are dealing with domestic terrorism like they have battered-woman's syndrome. Like a woman who continues to stay in an abusive relationship, so the President and other democrat leaders continue on in denial, believing only that this new reality is only minor and that the real problem is guns and/or climate change. Denial is the salient characteristic of battered-woman's syndrome; what is obvious to everyone is denied by the victim.
If the victim is enlightened and finally does admit the abuse is occurring, the next symptom is to blame herself and feel shame. She thinks, "I'm responsible, I'm doing something to bring about this abuse." Even though she is innocent, she believes she deserves it. Isn't that the message that the liberal left attempts to lay on us? "It's America's fault, we are greedy exploiters and thieves of the world's resources. That is why this terrorism is happening."
Another characteristic of the battered-woman's syndrome victim is the false belief that the abuse will diminish over time. It doesn't. Radical Islamic terrorism will not either. Doing nothing is not neutral, it is harmful. The situation becomes worse, not better.
When the victim is truly enlightened, she understands that she has done nothing to deserve her abuse. Attempts by the abuser to shame her and make her the cause of abuse are overcome. She understands that she has a responsibility to herself and her family to end this abuse. Using every legal means she takes positive action to bring it to an end. What ever these means are, it is not a matter of hating, but it is a matter of not being stupid and of doing the right thing.
In the battle against radical Islamic terrorism, however hard it may be, it is not about hating Muslims, but it is about not being stupid and doing the right thing. The first responsibility of the POTUS is to protect the citizens of the US. Obama needs to get over his "battered woman's syndrome" and do the right thing.
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Tuesday, December 08, 2015
CHURCH SURVEY: Alta Church of Christ
It has been 2 full months since I last posted. I gave myself some time off after closing the Akron ministry, but now it is time to get going again. One of the projects I have already begun is church surveys. This is important to me because it is important to have some understanding of the relative health of the churches in Northwest Iowa, particularly the independent Christian churches and Churches of Christ.
November 29 I visited the Alta Church of Christ. In the past I filled the pulpit there several times, but it has been close to 10 years since I had been there. I went on line to check for service times. There is no practical on-line presence. One can get their name and address, but no activities, services or times. The church is without a pastor at this time, but a blog or web site with basic information would not be hard to do. Without service time information, I proceeded on the assumption that worship was at 9 and Sunday school was at 10 a.m. because that was their former service times. I was wrong. The times were reversed. There was no adult Sunday school that day.
It was good to worship with old friends. There were about 50 in attendance that day. Music was exactly split between contemporary and traditional--4 of each. Matt Wentz was the guest speaker.
CONCLUSIONS: There appeared to be enough youth in the congregation to have an effective ministry in the community, but they need good leadership. While I received a warm greeting that Sunday, I am not sure that the average visitor would want to come back. I was remembered, new people need the same kind of greeting. There are some simple things that could be done immediately. I'm wondering if this church might be a candidate to be a satellite campus of a larger church?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
November 29 I visited the Alta Church of Christ. In the past I filled the pulpit there several times, but it has been close to 10 years since I had been there. I went on line to check for service times. There is no practical on-line presence. One can get their name and address, but no activities, services or times. The church is without a pastor at this time, but a blog or web site with basic information would not be hard to do. Without service time information, I proceeded on the assumption that worship was at 9 and Sunday school was at 10 a.m. because that was their former service times. I was wrong. The times were reversed. There was no adult Sunday school that day.
It was good to worship with old friends. There were about 50 in attendance that day. Music was exactly split between contemporary and traditional--4 of each. Matt Wentz was the guest speaker.
CONCLUSIONS: There appeared to be enough youth in the congregation to have an effective ministry in the community, but they need good leadership. While I received a warm greeting that Sunday, I am not sure that the average visitor would want to come back. I was remembered, new people need the same kind of greeting. There are some simple things that could be done immediately. I'm wondering if this church might be a candidate to be a satellite campus of a larger church?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Monday, October 05, 2015
AKRON'S LAST SERVICE
Lord, I believe. Help me overcome my unbelief, (Mark 9:24).
For the record: My last service at the First Church of Christ, Akron, IA was October 4th, 2015. My last sermon was The Distinct Differences Between Faith and Unbelief. Hebrews 11:6 and Mark 9:24 were my texts.
I do feel sorrow at the closing of the church. Looking back, there is one thing I didn't do that I should have done and that is to ask negative people not to serve in leadership positions or even to cease coming to church. Leaders who lack faith are infectious--it is contagious to the whole congregation. A post-mortem of the Akron Church of Christ is indicative of this.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
For the record: My last service at the First Church of Christ, Akron, IA was October 4th, 2015. My last sermon was The Distinct Differences Between Faith and Unbelief. Hebrews 11:6 and Mark 9:24 were my texts.
I do feel sorrow at the closing of the church. Looking back, there is one thing I didn't do that I should have done and that is to ask negative people not to serve in leadership positions or even to cease coming to church. Leaders who lack faith are infectious--it is contagious to the whole congregation. A post-mortem of the Akron Church of Christ is indicative of this.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Monday, September 21, 2015
THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, AKRON, IOWA
I (Jesus) do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You , Father, are in me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me (John 17: 20-21).
The lovely and gracious Helen and I have had to deal with the estates of relatives and loved ones. In sorting through the possessions of those who have passed on, one is confronted with the task of deciding what to keep and what to throw away. The legal matters are obvious, but the legacy and family history issues are not. Helen is a good archivist, so she sees value in things I do not. I tell you this so that as I share with you the Last Will and Testament of the Akron Church of Christ, I will be "painting with a broad brush." It is not my purpose to go into detail.
The history of the First Church of Christ in Akron, Iowa spans some 120 years. In its history there have been many victories. Every person that came to know Jesus Christ and surrender to Him is a victory to be savored and remembered! However, there have been many failures and mistakes too. It serves no constructive purpose to recount those except to admit them, understanding that the church is a hospital for sinners and bringing healing can be a messy business. The memory of those failures can be "flushed" because we have a gracious God and Savior (1 John 1:9).
The legacy the Akron Church of Christ can leave the community is this, "what it means to be simply a Christian." "We do not claim to be the only Christians, but we do claim to be Christians only." Unity is an extremely important topic these days ! The Church at large is facing challenges like it has not seen since the first century when there was no Christian consensus. We simply do not have the luxury maintaining our little denominational kingdoms!
Another legacy slogan of the fellowship of Christian Church and Church's of Christ that is a recipe for unity is this, "No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible, no name but the Divine, no law but love."
1. Christianity is about Christ, who he is and what he has done. He is the one in whom we believe, he is the one in whom we trust, he is the one we follow. Creeds tend to perpetuate division. It is upon Christ that the Church is to be built! (Matthew 16:15-17).
2. Our teaching comes from the Bible, Our people need to be taught the Bible so that they, too, can "accurately handle the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
3. We wear no name other than the name of the one we serve. Human names tend to perpetuate division too. Throughout history slaves customarily wore the names of their masters. Not only are we slaves of Christ, we are children in the family of God, we wear his name! (Acts 11:26). We have a new name. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, not cousins! Our adversary, the devil, wins when he can keep us confused as to our identity!
4. We are bound by no law but love. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET, and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8-10). Love is to be the motivator of Christian living. Jesus said if you love me you will keep my commandments. Without love, meticulous law-keeping gains nothing (I Corinthians 13:1-7).
These principles are the matters the Akron Church of Christ leaves to the Akron Christian community at large. As churches find the need to unite their efforts in an increasingly secular and pagan culture, may they serve as guiding principles for that effort.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The lovely and gracious Helen and I have had to deal with the estates of relatives and loved ones. In sorting through the possessions of those who have passed on, one is confronted with the task of deciding what to keep and what to throw away. The legal matters are obvious, but the legacy and family history issues are not. Helen is a good archivist, so she sees value in things I do not. I tell you this so that as I share with you the Last Will and Testament of the Akron Church of Christ, I will be "painting with a broad brush." It is not my purpose to go into detail.
The history of the First Church of Christ in Akron, Iowa spans some 120 years. In its history there have been many victories. Every person that came to know Jesus Christ and surrender to Him is a victory to be savored and remembered! However, there have been many failures and mistakes too. It serves no constructive purpose to recount those except to admit them, understanding that the church is a hospital for sinners and bringing healing can be a messy business. The memory of those failures can be "flushed" because we have a gracious God and Savior (1 John 1:9).
The legacy the Akron Church of Christ can leave the community is this, "what it means to be simply a Christian." "We do not claim to be the only Christians, but we do claim to be Christians only." Unity is an extremely important topic these days ! The Church at large is facing challenges like it has not seen since the first century when there was no Christian consensus. We simply do not have the luxury maintaining our little denominational kingdoms!
Another legacy slogan of the fellowship of Christian Church and Church's of Christ that is a recipe for unity is this, "No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible, no name but the Divine, no law but love."
1. Christianity is about Christ, who he is and what he has done. He is the one in whom we believe, he is the one in whom we trust, he is the one we follow. Creeds tend to perpetuate division. It is upon Christ that the Church is to be built! (Matthew 16:15-17).
2. Our teaching comes from the Bible, Our people need to be taught the Bible so that they, too, can "accurately handle the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
3. We wear no name other than the name of the one we serve. Human names tend to perpetuate division too. Throughout history slaves customarily wore the names of their masters. Not only are we slaves of Christ, we are children in the family of God, we wear his name! (Acts 11:26). We have a new name. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, not cousins! Our adversary, the devil, wins when he can keep us confused as to our identity!
4. We are bound by no law but love. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET, and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8-10). Love is to be the motivator of Christian living. Jesus said if you love me you will keep my commandments. Without love, meticulous law-keeping gains nothing (I Corinthians 13:1-7).
These principles are the matters the Akron Church of Christ leaves to the Akron Christian community at large. As churches find the need to unite their efforts in an increasingly secular and pagan culture, may they serve as guiding principles for that effort.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, July 24, 2015
WORSE THAN BABARISM
Permit the children to come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these (Luke 18:16).
Barbarism is the thinking and acting of barbarians. The simple, backwards and cruel ways of barbarians are the ways of radical Islam, but there is something worse than the barbarism of radical Islam and that is the cold-blooded sophistication of the Planned-Parenthood doctor. The recently released videos of the Planned Parenthood doctors, sipping wine, eating salad, discussing Lamborghini's all while negotiating the price of baby body parts are absolutely repulsive!!!
The justification of the use of baby body parts is medical research. It must be noted that Dr. Michelle Cretella, of the American College of Pediatricians, has pointed out that like embryonic stem cell research, fetal tissue research has failed to produce a single successful treatment for human disease. Adult stem cell research, however, has yielded treatments for 73 different diseases. Adult stem cells do not require the killing of innocent human life.
Democrats favor abortion at any time, virtually to the time of birth, all in the name of the woman's right to choose. Almost all of these baby body parts come from later-term abortions where baby has a beating heart and can feel pain. How is this different from the Nazi's medical experiments on Jews and gypsies? One can use medical research to justify the most horrible atrocities.
Worse, if the American public accepts this as business as usual, the self-destruction of America accelerates.
Tom
Barbarism is the thinking and acting of barbarians. The simple, backwards and cruel ways of barbarians are the ways of radical Islam, but there is something worse than the barbarism of radical Islam and that is the cold-blooded sophistication of the Planned-Parenthood doctor. The recently released videos of the Planned Parenthood doctors, sipping wine, eating salad, discussing Lamborghini's all while negotiating the price of baby body parts are absolutely repulsive!!!
The justification of the use of baby body parts is medical research. It must be noted that Dr. Michelle Cretella, of the American College of Pediatricians, has pointed out that like embryonic stem cell research, fetal tissue research has failed to produce a single successful treatment for human disease. Adult stem cell research, however, has yielded treatments for 73 different diseases. Adult stem cells do not require the killing of innocent human life.
Democrats favor abortion at any time, virtually to the time of birth, all in the name of the woman's right to choose. Almost all of these baby body parts come from later-term abortions where baby has a beating heart and can feel pain. How is this different from the Nazi's medical experiments on Jews and gypsies? One can use medical research to justify the most horrible atrocities.
Worse, if the American public accepts this as business as usual, the self-destruction of America accelerates.
Tom
Saturday, July 18, 2015
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW 2
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord ( 2Peter 1:2ff).
Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you," so that we confidently say, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:5-6).
Yesterday I very briefly discussed the spiritual blessings with which a Christian is blessed--they are worthy of much more discussion! I asked the question, "How do these spiritual blessing help us make a living that will satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children?"
Most likely one can never satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children. In most households there is never enough money to satisfy every one's wants. This kind of household has a spiritual problem. It reduces life to the material, to the flesh. For Christians God has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. Money is not the solution, God is. A nagging, complaining family needs a spiritual education.
As long as we live in bodies of flesh we will have material responsibilities. God has promised that He would be our helper. One thing we must remember is to ask God's blessing on the things that we have--food is more nutritious with God's blessing, cars last longer with God's blessing and regular maintenance, clothing is more durable and attractive with God's blessing.
If we ask God's blessing on our labors we know that they will be done better than otherwise, and we will be more productive. Asking God's blessing on our lives and labors assures us of His Grace & Peace. Isn't Grace and Peace the foundation of a more productive life?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you," so that we confidently say, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:5-6).
Yesterday I very briefly discussed the spiritual blessings with which a Christian is blessed--they are worthy of much more discussion! I asked the question, "How do these spiritual blessing help us make a living that will satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children?"
Most likely one can never satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children. In most households there is never enough money to satisfy every one's wants. This kind of household has a spiritual problem. It reduces life to the material, to the flesh. For Christians God has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. Money is not the solution, God is. A nagging, complaining family needs a spiritual education.
As long as we live in bodies of flesh we will have material responsibilities. God has promised that He would be our helper. One thing we must remember is to ask God's blessing on the things that we have--food is more nutritious with God's blessing, cars last longer with God's blessing and regular maintenance, clothing is more durable and attractive with God's blessing.
If we ask God's blessing on our labors we know that they will be done better than otherwise, and we will be more productive. Asking God's blessing on our lives and labors assures us of His Grace & Peace. Isn't Grace and Peace the foundation of a more productive life?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Monday, July 13, 2015
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3; Read through verse 14).
Praise is due to the One who has blessed us with all good things! First and foremost among those good things are the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. In Christ we are God's chosen to be holy and blameless. In Christ it was predestined that we would be adopted as sons of God. In Christ we are redeemed, our trespasses being paid for, and we are forgiven. We know the mystery of God's will in that all things are summed up in Christ. In Christ we are not like orphans, we have an inheritance of hope and the Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of that inheritance.
You might say, "Yes, we have all these spiritual blessings, but how does that help me to put a roof over my head and buy groceries for my family?" We will discuss that tomorrow.
Grace & Peace,
Tom
Praise is due to the One who has blessed us with all good things! First and foremost among those good things are the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. In Christ we are God's chosen to be holy and blameless. In Christ it was predestined that we would be adopted as sons of God. In Christ we are redeemed, our trespasses being paid for, and we are forgiven. We know the mystery of God's will in that all things are summed up in Christ. In Christ we are not like orphans, we have an inheritance of hope and the Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of that inheritance.
You might say, "Yes, we have all these spiritual blessings, but how does that help me to put a roof over my head and buy groceries for my family?" We will discuss that tomorrow.
Grace & Peace,
Tom
Saturday, June 27, 2015
PEACE
Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all (2 Thessalonians 3:16).
This morning is one of those rare mornings in northwest Iowa where one can step out on the deck with a cup of coffee in his hand and sit, enjoy the beauty of the flowers and trees, and listen to the birds sing. That environment of peacefulness inspires reflection and prayer. The chaos and conflict of our times do not seem so troublesome right now.
In our war with the evil one we need the "peace that passes understanding" to sustain us in faithfulness to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
This morning is one of those rare mornings in northwest Iowa where one can step out on the deck with a cup of coffee in his hand and sit, enjoy the beauty of the flowers and trees, and listen to the birds sing. That environment of peacefulness inspires reflection and prayer. The chaos and conflict of our times do not seem so troublesome right now.
In our war with the evil one we need the "peace that passes understanding" to sustain us in faithfulness to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, June 26, 2015
COMMUNION PROCLAIMS
For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes . . . But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup (1 Corinthians 11: 26 &28)).
Taking communion is a proclamation of faith. Taking communion is a proclamation of belief in Jesus Christ the Son of God. Taking communion is a proclamation of the truth that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, He was buried and rose from the grave. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith that Jesus Christ is coming again. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith in Christ, that He is our righteousness in the Day of Judgment.
Communion is a backward look at what Jesus has done for us. Communion is an honest and inward look at our personal lives, recognizing our sinfulness. Communion is a forward look to the return of Christ. Why would taking communion ever become a common thing?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Taking communion is a proclamation of faith. Taking communion is a proclamation of belief in Jesus Christ the Son of God. Taking communion is a proclamation of the truth that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, He was buried and rose from the grave. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith that Jesus Christ is coming again. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith in Christ, that He is our righteousness in the Day of Judgment.
Communion is a backward look at what Jesus has done for us. Communion is an honest and inward look at our personal lives, recognizing our sinfulness. Communion is a forward look to the return of Christ. Why would taking communion ever become a common thing?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, June 06, 2015
A PICTURE OF THE MEN OF PROVERBS
A man who wanders from the way of understanding will rest in the assembly of the dead (Proverbs 21:16).
As with the women of Proverbs, what differentiates between the wise and the foolish men is the fear of the Lord (1:7). Even though a man might be highly skilled, he is still a fool if he does not fear the Lord!
The real men of Proverbs seem to have some common characteristics that are worth noteing:
1. He has an excellent wife (12:4). Real men are wise about the selection of a wife.
2. He has regard for the life of his animal (12:10).
3. Fools are not his companions (13:20). As Pasquinel said in Centennial, "Bad companions bring bad luck" (James Michener).
4. The Lord makes the Godly man's enemies be at peace with him (16:7).
5. He leaves an inheritance to his children's children (13:22).
6. He has good friends in quality, but not a great number in quantity (18:24).
7. He is strong enough to sharpen those around him (27:17).
8. He helps the poor (28:27). " He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses."
9. The pursuit of wealth is not his most important pursuit because there are somethings that money cannot buy (28:22).
I'm sure there are other characteristics of Proverbs that I haven't listed, but these are the beginning of a good portrait of the real man of Proverbs.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
As with the women of Proverbs, what differentiates between the wise and the foolish men is the fear of the Lord (1:7). Even though a man might be highly skilled, he is still a fool if he does not fear the Lord!
The real men of Proverbs seem to have some common characteristics that are worth noteing:
1. He has an excellent wife (12:4). Real men are wise about the selection of a wife.
2. He has regard for the life of his animal (12:10).
3. Fools are not his companions (13:20). As Pasquinel said in Centennial, "Bad companions bring bad luck" (James Michener).
4. The Lord makes the Godly man's enemies be at peace with him (16:7).
5. He leaves an inheritance to his children's children (13:22).
6. He has good friends in quality, but not a great number in quantity (18:24).
7. He is strong enough to sharpen those around him (27:17).
8. He helps the poor (28:27). " He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses."
9. The pursuit of wealth is not his most important pursuit because there are somethings that money cannot buy (28:22).
I'm sure there are other characteristics of Proverbs that I haven't listed, but these are the beginning of a good portrait of the real man of Proverbs.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, May 29, 2015
THE WOMEN OF PROVERBS
The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands (Proverbs 14:1).
The primary author of Proverbs was Solomon. Solomon asked God for wisdom and God granted Solomon's request. Much of Solomon's wisdom was the ability to discern wisdom in others and make it known along with his own wisdom. Chapter 24:23 speaks of the proverbs as being the sayings of the wise. Chapter 30 is credited to Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle.
The wisdom of Proverbs was for the young, especially boys--it was their text book for social science. One of the topics of study for these young scholars was women. (I found a note pad of my grandfather's that was titled All of What Men Know About Women. Every page was blank.)
One kind of woman mentioned by the Proverbs is the contentious woman. She is mentioned 4 times in the book. "It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman" (Proverbs 21:9). The contentious woman is the one who nags, is argumentative and complains. Watch out for this kind of woman!
The woman of folly is another kind of woman the Proverbs warns about. "The woman of folly is boisterous, she is naive and knows nothing" (9:13). One of the keys to interpreting all the kinds of people Proverbs talks about is 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This foolish woman knows nothing because she does not fear the Lord! The wise woman is wise because she fears the Lord. The virtuous woman is virtuous because she fears the Lord: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" (31:30).
The Proverbs speak truly of human nature. Proverbs doesn't degrade woman, in fact it lifts them up. Wisdom in chapter 8 is used in the feminine voice, suggesting that women are not second class citizens in regard to wisdom: "For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her" (8:11).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The primary author of Proverbs was Solomon. Solomon asked God for wisdom and God granted Solomon's request. Much of Solomon's wisdom was the ability to discern wisdom in others and make it known along with his own wisdom. Chapter 24:23 speaks of the proverbs as being the sayings of the wise. Chapter 30 is credited to Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle.
The wisdom of Proverbs was for the young, especially boys--it was their text book for social science. One of the topics of study for these young scholars was women. (I found a note pad of my grandfather's that was titled All of What Men Know About Women. Every page was blank.)
One kind of woman mentioned by the Proverbs is the contentious woman. She is mentioned 4 times in the book. "It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman" (Proverbs 21:9). The contentious woman is the one who nags, is argumentative and complains. Watch out for this kind of woman!
The woman of folly is another kind of woman the Proverbs warns about. "The woman of folly is boisterous, she is naive and knows nothing" (9:13). One of the keys to interpreting all the kinds of people Proverbs talks about is 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This foolish woman knows nothing because she does not fear the Lord! The wise woman is wise because she fears the Lord. The virtuous woman is virtuous because she fears the Lord: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" (31:30).
The Proverbs speak truly of human nature. Proverbs doesn't degrade woman, in fact it lifts them up. Wisdom in chapter 8 is used in the feminine voice, suggesting that women are not second class citizens in regard to wisdom: "For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her" (8:11).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
BLESS THE BEASTS AND THE CHILDREN
A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel (Proverbs 12:10).
Bless the beasts and the children, for in this world they have no voice, they have no choice . . .
A lot can be learned about a person's character by how he, or she, cares for their animals. It is a matter of understanding the animals that one has the responsibility of caring for, much as understanding the children in his care. Proverbs 22:6 tells us that if a child is trained up in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. It is also true of animals and pets. Whether children, pets or animals, if one takes on the responsibility of having them, then it is required that one works at understanding them so that they can be given what they need. Without understanding even compassion can be cruel.
The Carpenters sang "Bless the Beasts and the Children" in the early 1970's. It is a very moving song and I wondered why the pro-life movement didn't make use of it. Having said that, the very first line of lyrics expresses very well God's intentions for our relationship with animals and children.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Bless the beasts and the children, for in this world they have no voice, they have no choice . . .
A lot can be learned about a person's character by how he, or she, cares for their animals. It is a matter of understanding the animals that one has the responsibility of caring for, much as understanding the children in his care. Proverbs 22:6 tells us that if a child is trained up in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. It is also true of animals and pets. Whether children, pets or animals, if one takes on the responsibility of having them, then it is required that one works at understanding them so that they can be given what they need. Without understanding even compassion can be cruel.
The Carpenters sang "Bless the Beasts and the Children" in the early 1970's. It is a very moving song and I wondered why the pro-life movement didn't make use of it. Having said that, the very first line of lyrics expresses very well God's intentions for our relationship with animals and children.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Monday, May 11, 2015
SHADES OF WISDOM
A wise man (person) will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel (Proverbs 1:5).
The book of Proverbs was written for the young and the naive (1:4) to give them wise counsel and to help them develop the skill of discernment and discretion.
The most-used term as a definition for the wise in the book of Proverbs is skillful. How does one develop skills? By learning from a teacher, which, in its self, is often tedious and hard work. It has been said that there is no teaching, only learning, so the fool will not put in the effort to learn and develop the skills that are needed to succeed. The wise of the book of Proverbs are those who are skilled in honest occupations from those who labor with their hands to those who are skilled at teaching and counseling and laboring with their minds. Those who are skilled in dishonesty are the worst kind of fools. Unfortunately, there are way too many of the skilled dishonest, so it is important to develop the skill of discernment so that one doesn't become their victim. It must be added that this kind of wisdom includes women as well: "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands" (14:1). Women can be just as skillful as men and just as destructive and depraved as men too.
A second word for the wise in the book of Proverbs is one who considers carefully: "A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding (is wise) than a hundred blows into a fool" (17:10). As well: "He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father" (28:7). Many people are driven by their emotions. They do not stop to think and take time to consider all the issues involved. Our genetics and family systems do play a role in our ability to think critically, but they are not determiners. The ability to think critically can be developed if one is willing to learn!
A third word for the wise in Proverbs has to do with substance: "He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous . . . (2:7). The word is in the feminine gender so that it means the opposite of girls gone wild, but rather girls gone wise. This kind of wisdom is not the kind of popular culture based on the breezes of popularity, but the kind of understanding that has stood the test of time. It has substance. It is true, not trendy!
Finally, the last word for the wise in Proverbs is sakal. There is overlap as to how these words are used, but what makes this word different is that it is active. a sakal person is one who acts circumspectly, prudently and wisely so that others may see and learn. Sakal is used five times in the book of Proverbs and wise action seems to be the consistent thread in its use: "A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully . . . " (17:2). Some will never learn from an other's example, nevertheless, we should live lives of wisdom to inspire others.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The book of Proverbs was written for the young and the naive (1:4) to give them wise counsel and to help them develop the skill of discernment and discretion.
The most-used term as a definition for the wise in the book of Proverbs is skillful. How does one develop skills? By learning from a teacher, which, in its self, is often tedious and hard work. It has been said that there is no teaching, only learning, so the fool will not put in the effort to learn and develop the skills that are needed to succeed. The wise of the book of Proverbs are those who are skilled in honest occupations from those who labor with their hands to those who are skilled at teaching and counseling and laboring with their minds. Those who are skilled in dishonesty are the worst kind of fools. Unfortunately, there are way too many of the skilled dishonest, so it is important to develop the skill of discernment so that one doesn't become their victim. It must be added that this kind of wisdom includes women as well: "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands" (14:1). Women can be just as skillful as men and just as destructive and depraved as men too.
A second word for the wise in the book of Proverbs is one who considers carefully: "A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding (is wise) than a hundred blows into a fool" (17:10). As well: "He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father" (28:7). Many people are driven by their emotions. They do not stop to think and take time to consider all the issues involved. Our genetics and family systems do play a role in our ability to think critically, but they are not determiners. The ability to think critically can be developed if one is willing to learn!
A third word for the wise in Proverbs has to do with substance: "He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous . . . (2:7). The word is in the feminine gender so that it means the opposite of girls gone wild, but rather girls gone wise. This kind of wisdom is not the kind of popular culture based on the breezes of popularity, but the kind of understanding that has stood the test of time. It has substance. It is true, not trendy!
Finally, the last word for the wise in Proverbs is sakal. There is overlap as to how these words are used, but what makes this word different is that it is active. a sakal person is one who acts circumspectly, prudently and wisely so that others may see and learn. Sakal is used five times in the book of Proverbs and wise action seems to be the consistent thread in its use: "A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully . . . " (17:2). Some will never learn from an other's example, nevertheless, we should live lives of wisdom to inspire others.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Wednesday, May 06, 2015
WHAT KIND OF FOOL (am I?)
Do not answer a fool according to his folly or you will also be like him (Proverbs 26:4).
What kind of fool am I, who never fell in love? It seems I'm the only one I have been thinking of . . . (Sammy Davis Jr. made this song a hit in 1962).
It is an appropriate question to ask because there is a little bit of foolishness in all of us. The book of Proverbs lists four different kinds:
1) The naive, simple and unsophisticated. "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps (14:15). The positive of the naive is that they are teachable, something that is probably not characteristic of the other kinds of fools. Proverbs was written to give prudence to the naive (1:4).
2) The evil fool is characterized in 1:7, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction." This kind of fool lacks sense, he is emotionally driven, "A fools anger is known at once . . . (12:16). "The way of the fool is right in his own eyes." (12:15). This kind of fool is dangerous because not only is he emotionally driven, but he never sees himself as being wrong or doing wrong. Be careful around this kind of person!
3) The sensual fool is described in 10:23: "Doing wickedness is like sport to the fool . . ." 13:19 says: ". . . it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil." The desires of the flesh come before the will of God and what is right.
4) The scorning fool or empty fool. Psalms 14:1 tells us that this kind of fool says in his heart, "there is no God." Also, in 1 Samuel 25 is the story of Nabal and Abigail. Read 25:24-25. There we find that Nabal means fool and certainly, this Nabal was a fool! This kind of fool has respect for neither God nor man. Proverbs 17:21 says of this kind of fool, "He who sires a fool does so to his own sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy."
Each one of these kinds of fools is a different Hebrew word in Proverbs. Proverbs places a lot of emphasis in understanding fools because fools can be very dangerous; one needs tho understand what his is dealing with! "He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence who sends a message by the hand of a fool" (Proverbs 26:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
What kind of fool am I, who never fell in love? It seems I'm the only one I have been thinking of . . . (Sammy Davis Jr. made this song a hit in 1962).
It is an appropriate question to ask because there is a little bit of foolishness in all of us. The book of Proverbs lists four different kinds:
1) The naive, simple and unsophisticated. "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps (14:15). The positive of the naive is that they are teachable, something that is probably not characteristic of the other kinds of fools. Proverbs was written to give prudence to the naive (1:4).
2) The evil fool is characterized in 1:7, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction." This kind of fool lacks sense, he is emotionally driven, "A fools anger is known at once . . . (12:16). "The way of the fool is right in his own eyes." (12:15). This kind of fool is dangerous because not only is he emotionally driven, but he never sees himself as being wrong or doing wrong. Be careful around this kind of person!
3) The sensual fool is described in 10:23: "Doing wickedness is like sport to the fool . . ." 13:19 says: ". . . it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil." The desires of the flesh come before the will of God and what is right.
4) The scorning fool or empty fool. Psalms 14:1 tells us that this kind of fool says in his heart, "there is no God." Also, in 1 Samuel 25 is the story of Nabal and Abigail. Read 25:24-25. There we find that Nabal means fool and certainly, this Nabal was a fool! This kind of fool has respect for neither God nor man. Proverbs 17:21 says of this kind of fool, "He who sires a fool does so to his own sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy."
Each one of these kinds of fools is a different Hebrew word in Proverbs. Proverbs places a lot of emphasis in understanding fools because fools can be very dangerous; one needs tho understand what his is dealing with! "He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence who sends a message by the hand of a fool" (Proverbs 26:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Thursday, April 30, 2015
THE BEGINNING OF A HEALTHY LIFE ( contrasting the wise and the foolish)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7 NASV).
Every person is biased. We all have our presuppositions that form the foundation of our world view. Some believe that God is not; He doesn't exist so human existence must be explained in "natural" terms. Others believe in gods or the True God of the Bible. The truth is that we live out our world view, we live out what we truly believe in. What a person does is way more important than what he says. How we live and the priorities that we have are a clear testimony of the things in which we believe. Reverence and respect for God form the foundation for a healthy life.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Every person is biased. We all have our presuppositions that form the foundation of our world view. Some believe that God is not; He doesn't exist so human existence must be explained in "natural" terms. Others believe in gods or the True God of the Bible. The truth is that we live out our world view, we live out what we truly believe in. What a person does is way more important than what he says. How we live and the priorities that we have are a clear testimony of the things in which we believe. Reverence and respect for God form the foundation for a healthy life.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Friday, April 17, 2015
METRICS OF BEAUTY
The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she found favor and kindness with him more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti (Esther 2:17).
HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS! (Romans 10:15).
The Bible specifically describes Abraham's wife, Sarah and Isaac's wife, Rebekah as being beautiful. Oddly enough, the same Hebrew word that describes Sarah and Rebekah as beautiful also is used to Describe David. Sarah must have kept her good looks well into old age because there were a couple of kings that wanted her even when she was old. While the above text does not say Esther was beautiful it certainly leaves us with the impression that Esther was way above average in looks and grace. She was the total package, being both graceful and good-looking.
Though there are some facets of beauty that are cultural, like weight, length of neck, size of feet and body ornamentation, there are some factors that are recognized universally as being beautiful. As early as 8 months of age babies gaze much longer at symmetrical faces than asymmetrical faces. Clear skin is universally recognized as being essential to beauty. Though the roundness of a woman may be valued differently in different cultures, it is universally recognized that a waist-to-hip ratio of .70 is a metric of physical beauty in a woman. It appears that most of the women of Fox News fall into these physical metrics.
Debrahlee Lorenzana was fired from her position as a business banker for being distractingly attractive to her male colleagues (Psychology Today, 2-14). Because of our highly sexualized culture, being an attractive woman has to be difficult in the work-place, but it also has its advantages. A wise woman will, like Esther, use her beauty in such a way as to bring grace to the work-place. She has to learn how to 'express confidence and competence, to speak with certainty and demonstrate an ability to listen and be present' (PT, Flora, 2014).
Beauty can become ugly if it represents a lot of difficulty. The landscapes of America were not recognized as being beautiful until the railroads could easily carry passengers through the mountains. Prior to the railroads, mountains were obstacles that had to be conquered. As well, a beautiful woman without discretion will not keep her beauty. Forest Gump said, "Stupid is as stupid does," would also agree that beauty is as beauty does.
This is as true for men as it is for women, one can improve his/her looks a whole lot by cultivating the attitudes and actions that help and bless others. A rather plain-looking person becomes very attractive when grace is shown in her/his life.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS! (Romans 10:15).
The Bible specifically describes Abraham's wife, Sarah and Isaac's wife, Rebekah as being beautiful. Oddly enough, the same Hebrew word that describes Sarah and Rebekah as beautiful also is used to Describe David. Sarah must have kept her good looks well into old age because there were a couple of kings that wanted her even when she was old. While the above text does not say Esther was beautiful it certainly leaves us with the impression that Esther was way above average in looks and grace. She was the total package, being both graceful and good-looking.
Though there are some facets of beauty that are cultural, like weight, length of neck, size of feet and body ornamentation, there are some factors that are recognized universally as being beautiful. As early as 8 months of age babies gaze much longer at symmetrical faces than asymmetrical faces. Clear skin is universally recognized as being essential to beauty. Though the roundness of a woman may be valued differently in different cultures, it is universally recognized that a waist-to-hip ratio of .70 is a metric of physical beauty in a woman. It appears that most of the women of Fox News fall into these physical metrics.
Debrahlee Lorenzana was fired from her position as a business banker for being distractingly attractive to her male colleagues (Psychology Today, 2-14). Because of our highly sexualized culture, being an attractive woman has to be difficult in the work-place, but it also has its advantages. A wise woman will, like Esther, use her beauty in such a way as to bring grace to the work-place. She has to learn how to 'express confidence and competence, to speak with certainty and demonstrate an ability to listen and be present' (PT, Flora, 2014).
Beauty can become ugly if it represents a lot of difficulty. The landscapes of America were not recognized as being beautiful until the railroads could easily carry passengers through the mountains. Prior to the railroads, mountains were obstacles that had to be conquered. As well, a beautiful woman without discretion will not keep her beauty. Forest Gump said, "Stupid is as stupid does," would also agree that beauty is as beauty does.
This is as true for men as it is for women, one can improve his/her looks a whole lot by cultivating the attitudes and actions that help and bless others. A rather plain-looking person becomes very attractive when grace is shown in her/his life.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, April 11, 2015
NEUROPLASTICITY OR REPENTANCE?
Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17:30-31).
In my recreational reading I came upon the term "neuroplasticity." Neuroplasticity has to do with the ability of the mind to reorganize its self when it is pushed to do so. The brain is moldable and flexible like plastic not static and unchanging like stone. There are some areas of the brain that even generate new cells to compensate for the death of old ones or to help in the necessary reorganization tasks placed on the brain. The science of neuroplasticity has become very important to stroke recovery and even in the area of self-improvement.
It is this area of self-improvement that made me think about repentance. Metanoia is the Greek word we translate into the English word "repentance." Literally translated, metanoia simply means, "change of mind." I'm not sure that Paul had the science of neuroplasticity in mind when he spoke of repentance in the above text, but one thing is sure, if God is God and Jesus is the Judge then we all need to reorganize our thinking.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
In my recreational reading I came upon the term "neuroplasticity." Neuroplasticity has to do with the ability of the mind to reorganize its self when it is pushed to do so. The brain is moldable and flexible like plastic not static and unchanging like stone. There are some areas of the brain that even generate new cells to compensate for the death of old ones or to help in the necessary reorganization tasks placed on the brain. The science of neuroplasticity has become very important to stroke recovery and even in the area of self-improvement.
It is this area of self-improvement that made me think about repentance. Metanoia is the Greek word we translate into the English word "repentance." Literally translated, metanoia simply means, "change of mind." I'm not sure that Paul had the science of neuroplasticity in mind when he spoke of repentance in the above text, but one thing is sure, if God is God and Jesus is the Judge then we all need to reorganize our thinking.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, April 04, 2015
THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS IS HISTORY AND HOPE
In as much as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so
that you may know the exact truth about the things which you have been taught (Luke 1: 1-4).
Luke MD, being a professional, was not easily persuaded that a dead person could raise from the dead, he had seen too much of it, but in his gospel he proclaims just that, "He has risen" (Luke 24:6). The resurrection of Jesus Christ from death, which was caused by His crucifixion, was the most essential fact that was to be believed by a Christian--if there is no resurrection, there is no Christianity (1 Corinthians 15: 16-19).
The Christian religion is a faith that is based in history. If the history is not true, neither is the faith; it has been presented that way from the beginning. There was a historical Jesus of Nazareth who performed miracles. There was a historical Pontius Pilate who ordered Jesus' execution on a cross. There was a historical resurrection of Jesus from the dead. If the record is not true on one of those points, the faith is not true. Though the credibility of the Biblical record has been attacked, the credibility of the witnesses has been attacked, the attacks have failed because the Bible is true!
The faith stands true and that is why, still today, Christians are willing to die for their faith. The One who conquered death has conquered death for all believers assuring us of eternal glory.
A word of warning for non-believers, God is now declaring to all men that all people every where should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17: 30,31). While the resurrection means eternal life for some, it means eternal punishment for those who refuse to bow to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love
Tom
that you may know the exact truth about the things which you have been taught (Luke 1: 1-4).
Luke MD, being a professional, was not easily persuaded that a dead person could raise from the dead, he had seen too much of it, but in his gospel he proclaims just that, "He has risen" (Luke 24:6). The resurrection of Jesus Christ from death, which was caused by His crucifixion, was the most essential fact that was to be believed by a Christian--if there is no resurrection, there is no Christianity (1 Corinthians 15: 16-19).
The Christian religion is a faith that is based in history. If the history is not true, neither is the faith; it has been presented that way from the beginning. There was a historical Jesus of Nazareth who performed miracles. There was a historical Pontius Pilate who ordered Jesus' execution on a cross. There was a historical resurrection of Jesus from the dead. If the record is not true on one of those points, the faith is not true. Though the credibility of the Biblical record has been attacked, the credibility of the witnesses has been attacked, the attacks have failed because the Bible is true!
The faith stands true and that is why, still today, Christians are willing to die for their faith. The One who conquered death has conquered death for all believers assuring us of eternal glory.
A word of warning for non-believers, God is now declaring to all men that all people every where should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17: 30,31). While the resurrection means eternal life for some, it means eternal punishment for those who refuse to bow to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Thursday, April 02, 2015
THE WOMEN'S WITNESS TO THE RISEN CHRIST
Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord . . ." (John 20:18).
Bill O'Reilly ends his Killing Jesus with the empty tomb. On this matter there is not much disagreement among historians. The disagreement begins with the explanation as to why the tomb was empty. O'Reilly's ending satisfies Christians who believe Christ's resurrection to be the "cornerstone" of the Christian faith and non-believers who believers who believe there are other explanations for the empty tomb.
The location of Jesus' tomb was known to both friend and foe alike. There was a guard posted at the tomb so there was very little opportunity for mischief. The eleven disciples were not acting very courageously at this time. The most courageous were the women. One of the details on which all of the gospels agree is that the women were the first witnesses to the risen Christ. If the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were written to "trick" people into becoming Christians, they would not have recorded that women were the first witnesses. Back in Jesus' day women were not highly thought of a witnesses--men were the legal witnesses. To report the women* as being the first witnesses was embarrassing, which is evidence for the credibility of their testimony. Very often God uses that which is counter to conventional wisdom to make His point.
An empty tomb without a risen Christ is the death of Christianity. Tomorrow, will consider other evidence for the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Bill O'Reilly ends his Killing Jesus with the empty tomb. On this matter there is not much disagreement among historians. The disagreement begins with the explanation as to why the tomb was empty. O'Reilly's ending satisfies Christians who believe Christ's resurrection to be the "cornerstone" of the Christian faith and non-believers who believers who believe there are other explanations for the empty tomb.
The location of Jesus' tomb was known to both friend and foe alike. There was a guard posted at the tomb so there was very little opportunity for mischief. The eleven disciples were not acting very courageously at this time. The most courageous were the women. One of the details on which all of the gospels agree is that the women were the first witnesses to the risen Christ. If the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were written to "trick" people into becoming Christians, they would not have recorded that women were the first witnesses. Back in Jesus' day women were not highly thought of a witnesses--men were the legal witnesses. To report the women* as being the first witnesses was embarrassing, which is evidence for the credibility of their testimony. Very often God uses that which is counter to conventional wisdom to make His point.
An empty tomb without a risen Christ is the death of Christianity. Tomorrow, will consider other evidence for the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, March 28, 2015
THE INTENTIONAL KING
Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:8).
No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on my own initiative, I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This commandment I received from My Father (John 10:18, Jesus is speaking of His life,).
Therefore the chief priests and the Pharisees convened a council, and were saying, "What are we doing? For this man is performing many signs. If we let Him go on like this, all men will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation" ( John 11:47-48)
As a result of this Pilate made efforts to release Him, but the Jews cried out saying, "If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar; everyone who makes himself out to be a king opposes Caesar." (John 19:12).
Therefore when Jesus had receive the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit (John 19:30).
The Scripture references cited above are only a few of many that could have been cited about the intention of Jesus. Jesus was not a victim of circumstances! Bill O'Reilly's Killing Jesus will be aired on national television on Palm Sunday evening. O'Reilly has done a fine job of setting forth the religious, social and political dynamics of the time of Jesus the Christ, but it would be a mistake to conclude that Jesus was a victim. He knew from the beginning where His ministry would take Him. He knew how His triumphal entry into Jerusalem would be interpreted because He directed it. He knew how the zealots, the Herodians, the Sadducee's, the Pharisees and the Romans would react to His ministry, but He did not change course.* Each faction played a part in killing Jesus. It also must be understood that Jesus' death on the cross was not a great tragedy, but the greatest blessing we will ever receive because He paid the price for our sins! That was the primary purpose of His ministry and the reason He could say, It is finished!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*Relatively early in Jesus' ministry, Mark chapter 3 records a Sabbath healing, the pre-planning of how to kill Jesus had begun. Jesus continued on undeturred, knowing his hour had not come and his work was unfinished. Jesus laid down his life when the time was right and his work was finished.
No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on my own initiative, I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This commandment I received from My Father (John 10:18, Jesus is speaking of His life,).
Therefore the chief priests and the Pharisees convened a council, and were saying, "What are we doing? For this man is performing many signs. If we let Him go on like this, all men will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation" ( John 11:47-48)
As a result of this Pilate made efforts to release Him, but the Jews cried out saying, "If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar; everyone who makes himself out to be a king opposes Caesar." (John 19:12).
Therefore when Jesus had receive the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit (John 19:30).
The Scripture references cited above are only a few of many that could have been cited about the intention of Jesus. Jesus was not a victim of circumstances! Bill O'Reilly's Killing Jesus will be aired on national television on Palm Sunday evening. O'Reilly has done a fine job of setting forth the religious, social and political dynamics of the time of Jesus the Christ, but it would be a mistake to conclude that Jesus was a victim. He knew from the beginning where His ministry would take Him. He knew how His triumphal entry into Jerusalem would be interpreted because He directed it. He knew how the zealots, the Herodians, the Sadducee's, the Pharisees and the Romans would react to His ministry, but He did not change course.* Each faction played a part in killing Jesus. It also must be understood that Jesus' death on the cross was not a great tragedy, but the greatest blessing we will ever receive because He paid the price for our sins! That was the primary purpose of His ministry and the reason He could say, It is finished!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*Relatively early in Jesus' ministry, Mark chapter 3 records a Sabbath healing, the pre-planning of how to kill Jesus had begun. Jesus continued on undeturred, knowing his hour had not come and his work was unfinished. Jesus laid down his life when the time was right and his work was finished.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
JESUS, THE WILLFULLY MISUNDERSTOOD KING
On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began to shout, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel."
Jesus, finding a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written, "Fear not daughter of Zion; Behold, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt." (John 12:12-15).
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble and mounted on a donkey, even a colt, the foal of a donkey.
I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the horse from Jerusalem; and the bow of war will be cut off. And He will speak peace to the nations; and His dominion will be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth (Zechariah 9:9-10).
Jesus was, and still is, the willfully misunderstood King. The timing of Jesus birth and life on this earth was accurately prophesied by Daniel. There were many people, like Anna and Simeon, who studied the Scriptures and knew that the time of the promised Messiah was at hand. When Jesus began to do miracles his disciples began to comprehend who is was. At the raising of Lazarus from the dead many more began to follow him, so much so that the religious and secular leadership of the Jews convened a meeting. They were alarmed. They said, What are we doing? For this man is performing many signs. If we let Him go on like this, all men will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation (John 12:47-48).
The religious and political leaders of Jesus' day valued their jobs, their power and prestige much more than the will of God.
On the other hand, there were the common folks who were taxed to death* and had little to any voice in the day-to-day affairs of their lives. They lived under both Roman rule and the corruption of the religious leaders who colluded with the Romans. By and large, they were poor and angry. They wanted a King who would defeat the Romans. Jesus was not that kind of king and so it would be easy for them to say just days later, Crucify him! crucify him!
The Kingdom of the Messiah is the Kingdom of peace not of war. The destruction of Rome would have been child's play for Jesus. Jesus came to win the war against sin for our salvation.
Jesus did not ride into Jerusalem on a horse, a symbol of war and conquering, he came on a donkey, a symbol of kingship, peace and humility. Thus, Jesus was, and is, the misunderstood king.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*The people of Jesus' day in Palestine not only paid taxes to the Romans, but also, to the Herods and the Temple tax. Their anger was understandable, but it was one of the factors which prevented them from recognizing the King of kings and Lord of lords.
When Jesus made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, announcing who he was, he stopped and wept over Jerusalem and prophesied the destruction of the city and the temple because, "you did not recognize the time of your visitation" (This is only recorded in Luke 19:41-44). A willful misunderstanding has its consequences. Prejudice and hate can blind a person to the truth. It must be understood that a person bears the responsibility for his prejudice and hate.
Jesus, finding a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written, "Fear not daughter of Zion; Behold, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt." (John 12:12-15).
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble and mounted on a donkey, even a colt, the foal of a donkey.
I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the horse from Jerusalem; and the bow of war will be cut off. And He will speak peace to the nations; and His dominion will be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth (Zechariah 9:9-10).
Jesus was, and still is, the willfully misunderstood King. The timing of Jesus birth and life on this earth was accurately prophesied by Daniel. There were many people, like Anna and Simeon, who studied the Scriptures and knew that the time of the promised Messiah was at hand. When Jesus began to do miracles his disciples began to comprehend who is was. At the raising of Lazarus from the dead many more began to follow him, so much so that the religious and secular leadership of the Jews convened a meeting. They were alarmed. They said, What are we doing? For this man is performing many signs. If we let Him go on like this, all men will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation (John 12:47-48).
The religious and political leaders of Jesus' day valued their jobs, their power and prestige much more than the will of God.
On the other hand, there were the common folks who were taxed to death* and had little to any voice in the day-to-day affairs of their lives. They lived under both Roman rule and the corruption of the religious leaders who colluded with the Romans. By and large, they were poor and angry. They wanted a King who would defeat the Romans. Jesus was not that kind of king and so it would be easy for them to say just days later, Crucify him! crucify him!
The Kingdom of the Messiah is the Kingdom of peace not of war. The destruction of Rome would have been child's play for Jesus. Jesus came to win the war against sin for our salvation.
Jesus did not ride into Jerusalem on a horse, a symbol of war and conquering, he came on a donkey, a symbol of kingship, peace and humility. Thus, Jesus was, and is, the misunderstood king.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*The people of Jesus' day in Palestine not only paid taxes to the Romans, but also, to the Herods and the Temple tax. Their anger was understandable, but it was one of the factors which prevented them from recognizing the King of kings and Lord of lords.
When Jesus made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, announcing who he was, he stopped and wept over Jerusalem and prophesied the destruction of the city and the temple because, "you did not recognize the time of your visitation" (This is only recorded in Luke 19:41-44). A willful misunderstanding has its consequences. Prejudice and hate can blind a person to the truth. It must be understood that a person bears the responsibility for his prejudice and hate.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
JESUS IS THE KING OF KINGS
He sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you; there, as you enter, you will find a colt tied on which no one yet has ever sat; untie it and bring it here. "If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' you shall say, 'The Lord has need of it.' " (Luke 19:29-31).
. . . the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, shouting; "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples." But Jesus answered, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!" (Luke 19:37-40).
There are critics of all different kinds who have asserted that Jesus never claimed to be the King, but those assertions are false. Jesus certainly orchestrated the timing of his announcement. His kingship was far different from what the Jews expected, so the timing of his announcement was extremely important. The events of the last days before the Crucifixion reveal how this King was received.
What is clear from the testimony of the Bible is that Jesus organized and directed this triumphal entry. He intended it to be the first announcement that he is King. He purposely presented himself to be the promised Messiah, Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, Humble and mounted on a donkey, Even on a colt, the foal of a donkey (Zechariah 9:9, Prophesied 500 years before Christ.).
The symbolism of the palm branches*, of his mount, the donkey**, and the testimony of his disciples reveal fully what Jesus intended to communicate, he is the King, the Messiah!
If Jesus is the King, what will you do?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*Palm branches symbolize royalty and victory in ancient history and the Bible. Revelation 7:9 says that the multitudes who surround the Throne have palm branches in their hands.
**The donkey was the mount of a king riding in peace among his people. The horse was a symbol of war and conquering. False messiahs rode horses, but the Prince of peace rode a donkey, symbolic not only that he was the Messiah, but also the nature of his kingdom.
. . . the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, shouting; "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples." But Jesus answered, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!" (Luke 19:37-40).
There are critics of all different kinds who have asserted that Jesus never claimed to be the King, but those assertions are false. Jesus certainly orchestrated the timing of his announcement. His kingship was far different from what the Jews expected, so the timing of his announcement was extremely important. The events of the last days before the Crucifixion reveal how this King was received.
What is clear from the testimony of the Bible is that Jesus organized and directed this triumphal entry. He intended it to be the first announcement that he is King. He purposely presented himself to be the promised Messiah, Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, Humble and mounted on a donkey, Even on a colt, the foal of a donkey (Zechariah 9:9, Prophesied 500 years before Christ.).
The symbolism of the palm branches*, of his mount, the donkey**, and the testimony of his disciples reveal fully what Jesus intended to communicate, he is the King, the Messiah!
If Jesus is the King, what will you do?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*Palm branches symbolize royalty and victory in ancient history and the Bible. Revelation 7:9 says that the multitudes who surround the Throne have palm branches in their hands.
**The donkey was the mount of a king riding in peace among his people. The horse was a symbol of war and conquering. False messiahs rode horses, but the Prince of peace rode a donkey, symbolic not only that he was the Messiah, but also the nature of his kingdom.
Friday, March 20, 2015
JESUS = LIFE
Jesus said to him, "I am . . . . . . the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).
Jesus is the creator of all things, including all living things. There would be no life without Him. As John's gospel says it, "All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made (1:3). Jesus is life because He created life in all its diversity. The infinite size of the universe, the vast array of its wonders and the mind-boggling diversity of life all testify to the power, beauty and love of God, Jesus the Christ.
Jesus is the way of life. Jesus gave His life as a ransom for us. We were on "death row" with no way of escape. Jesus died in our place and now we are able to walk free--the prison cell was opened and now we walk free. We were doomed to certain death, now we have life in Christ. If you are not in Christ, you are still on "death row!" One of the end-time events of which the Bible clearly speaks is the wrath that is to come. There is no escape apart from Christ.
Jesus is also the way of life because when one follows Him one is not investing in futility. How quickly life passes by. My wife, the lovely and gracious Helen, is the family history archivist. The family pictures testify to the speed of life's passing. Many pass through life investing only in what makes them feel good, following the desires of body and mind in the present, not investing in eternity. In a few short years they are forgotten and nothing is left. In Christ there is the life of salvation, which is an adventure in itself. It is in the life of salvation that Christ brings us into wholeness. Christ is not the way of the safe life, but He is the way of the life that is eternal not futile.
When I was a boy, my mom place a plaque on the kitchen wall that I, and I am sure my siblings, still remember. It said, Only one life will soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Jesus is the creator of all things, including all living things. There would be no life without Him. As John's gospel says it, "All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made (1:3). Jesus is life because He created life in all its diversity. The infinite size of the universe, the vast array of its wonders and the mind-boggling diversity of life all testify to the power, beauty and love of God, Jesus the Christ.
Jesus is the way of life. Jesus gave His life as a ransom for us. We were on "death row" with no way of escape. Jesus died in our place and now we are able to walk free--the prison cell was opened and now we walk free. We were doomed to certain death, now we have life in Christ. If you are not in Christ, you are still on "death row!" One of the end-time events of which the Bible clearly speaks is the wrath that is to come. There is no escape apart from Christ.
Jesus is also the way of life because when one follows Him one is not investing in futility. How quickly life passes by. My wife, the lovely and gracious Helen, is the family history archivist. The family pictures testify to the speed of life's passing. Many pass through life investing only in what makes them feel good, following the desires of body and mind in the present, not investing in eternity. In a few short years they are forgotten and nothing is left. In Christ there is the life of salvation, which is an adventure in itself. It is in the life of salvation that Christ brings us into wholeness. Christ is not the way of the safe life, but He is the way of the life that is eternal not futile.
When I was a boy, my mom place a plaque on the kitchen wall that I, and I am sure my siblings, still remember. It said, Only one life will soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, February 28, 2015
JESUS = TRUTH
Pilate said to him, "What is truth?" (John 18:38).
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6).
The ways of the Lord are mercy and truth (Psalms 25:10).
These days there are a lot of people, like Pilate, who are filled with cynicism about the truth. I'm sure that during his days in government service there were many who swore to him that they were telling the truth but they were really lying. If we pay attention to the news these days we find that left-leaning government officials lie with impunity and a sympathetic leftist news media will spin and lie to cover the first lies that were told.* The free citizens of the United States of America are like Pilate--they are sick of the spin zone!
Not only does the cynicism result from the public sector but from the private as well. Money is hard to come by. When a product doesn't live up to its advertising it hurts. Products that do not live up to billing, insurances that do not pay up because of technicalities, charities that eat up most of their donations in administrative expense all add to the cynicism about truth that many people feel.
William Barclay has pointed out that the Greek word for truth (aletheia) is used in three different ways in the New Testament: 1. The truth as distinguished from falsehood. 2. The genuine as opposed to that which is unreal or counterfeit. 3. The truth is not simply an intellectual pursuit, it is something that is to be done. In Christ we come face to face with the author of truth. He is the genuine. He is the one whom we must follow and thus do the truth, If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not do the truth (I John 1:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6).
The ways of the Lord are mercy and truth (Psalms 25:10).
These days there are a lot of people, like Pilate, who are filled with cynicism about the truth. I'm sure that during his days in government service there were many who swore to him that they were telling the truth but they were really lying. If we pay attention to the news these days we find that left-leaning government officials lie with impunity and a sympathetic leftist news media will spin and lie to cover the first lies that were told.* The free citizens of the United States of America are like Pilate--they are sick of the spin zone!
Not only does the cynicism result from the public sector but from the private as well. Money is hard to come by. When a product doesn't live up to its advertising it hurts. Products that do not live up to billing, insurances that do not pay up because of technicalities, charities that eat up most of their donations in administrative expense all add to the cynicism about truth that many people feel.
William Barclay has pointed out that the Greek word for truth (aletheia) is used in three different ways in the New Testament: 1. The truth as distinguished from falsehood. 2. The genuine as opposed to that which is unreal or counterfeit. 3. The truth is not simply an intellectual pursuit, it is something that is to be done. In Christ we come face to face with the author of truth. He is the genuine. He is the one whom we must follow and thus do the truth, If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not do the truth (I John 1:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
JESUS = LOVE
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).
The story of Jesus is the story of love from beginning to end. Though not everyone accepts the love of God as expressed through Jesus Christ, God has expressed His love for everyone through Him.
Before the Fall the plan for the redemption of humanity was already made in the mind of God. Though that plan might possibly reach farther than we know, it was made because God loves us (John 3:16-17).
If the love of Christ does not change us, nothing will. For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Those who are truly Christ followers are lovers: We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love (1 John 4:8).
All believers have a curiosity about what heaven will be like. Heaven will be filled with people of all nations and races--there will be a great diversity! The thing they will all have in common is the love of Christ! Heaven will be filled with love! So, we should begin practicing it right now!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The story of Jesus is the story of love from beginning to end. Though not everyone accepts the love of God as expressed through Jesus Christ, God has expressed His love for everyone through Him.
Before the Fall the plan for the redemption of humanity was already made in the mind of God. Though that plan might possibly reach farther than we know, it was made because God loves us (John 3:16-17).
If the love of Christ does not change us, nothing will. For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Those who are truly Christ followers are lovers: We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love (1 John 4:8).
All believers have a curiosity about what heaven will be like. Heaven will be filled with people of all nations and races--there will be a great diversity! The thing they will all have in common is the love of Christ! Heaven will be filled with love! So, we should begin practicing it right now!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Sunday, February 22, 2015
JESUS = FREEDOM
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Some of the land that I farm is along state highway 10 in Northwest Iowa. It is not uncommon for people that have strong religious and political convictions to share them by posting a sign along the highway. About 2 1/2 years ago, during the political season, I began to post a sign along my stretch of the highway. Except for about 3 months when a storm ripped my sign apart, I have kept a sign posted. I do not get very many comments about the sign, but I have had a few people thank me for posting them. I try to change them every 2 to 3 weeks--a sign that seldom changes is a sign that is seldom noticed.
My signs started by being negative political. After giving it serious thought I decided on a more positive tactic, at least for a while, I like being negative once in a while too. In recent months it would have been very easy to be negative. Pres. Obama has been doing his best to do in our country and toy with its very existence by refusing to have a coherent strategy to combat radical islamists.
Still I have decided to take a more positive approach and post signs that communicate positive Christian faith. So I'm doing a series of signs called Jesus =. An islamist believes that which is not true, a Christian believes in the authenticated risen Christ.
Jesus = Freedom. That is the first in this series of signs. The freedom a Christian has in Jesus is freedom from sin, death, guilt, shame, unnecessary religious practice and superstition. Christians can be at peace in turmoil because of the grace of the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*This sign has already been posted and taken down. The next sign, Jesus = Love will come down soon to be replaced by Jesus = Truth.
Some of the land that I farm is along state highway 10 in Northwest Iowa. It is not uncommon for people that have strong religious and political convictions to share them by posting a sign along the highway. About 2 1/2 years ago, during the political season, I began to post a sign along my stretch of the highway. Except for about 3 months when a storm ripped my sign apart, I have kept a sign posted. I do not get very many comments about the sign, but I have had a few people thank me for posting them. I try to change them every 2 to 3 weeks--a sign that seldom changes is a sign that is seldom noticed.
My signs started by being negative political. After giving it serious thought I decided on a more positive tactic, at least for a while, I like being negative once in a while too. In recent months it would have been very easy to be negative. Pres. Obama has been doing his best to do in our country and toy with its very existence by refusing to have a coherent strategy to combat radical islamists.
Still I have decided to take a more positive approach and post signs that communicate positive Christian faith. So I'm doing a series of signs called Jesus =. An islamist believes that which is not true, a Christian believes in the authenticated risen Christ.
Jesus = Freedom. That is the first in this series of signs. The freedom a Christian has in Jesus is freedom from sin, death, guilt, shame, unnecessary religious practice and superstition. Christians can be at peace in turmoil because of the grace of the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
*This sign has already been posted and taken down. The next sign, Jesus = Love will come down soon to be replaced by Jesus = Truth.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA (Going Home)
Everyone went to his home (John 7:53).
We arrived in Jamaica on Sunday, now it was Saturday morning and time to leave for home. At the beginning of the week it looked like a long week. I had not slept well the first night and was thinking that it could be a personally unpleasant week ahead, but now on this Saturday morning I was ready to sign up for another week. We always have to deal with reality and reality includes responsibility--there is business back in Iowa that is waiting.
We had some excess mission funds that we divided among those who served us so well, Andy, Al, Chris, the cook, and those who helped them. Without them it would have been a tough week.
We ate a hearty breakfast, packed our bags, loaded into the van and headed to Montego Bay. We were not rushed for time so we shopped and ate lunch at Burger King and were at the air port by 1:30. Departure was not until 5:00 so we had a lot of waiting to do. It is always a zoo to clear security and customs. Our youngest team member was randomly selected for a special security search--he made it though with only a minor inconvenience.
Our plane left Montego Bay as the sun was setting, its a great picture that I do not have, inspiring memories of the past week. It was 85 F when we left, but on arrival in Minneapolis at 10:00 it was below zero and a ground blizzard. By the time we cleared customs, left the airport and were on our way home it was nearly midnight. By the time we took our passengers home through the blizzard and Helen and I arrived at our house, it was after 5:00 a.m. Sunday morning, January 4th, 2015. Not a good way to end a great week! Helen and I planned to go to church, but due to some truck problems and getting stuck in the driveway we decided that the Lord was telling us to stay home. It was good to be home!
Our Father's love,
Tom
We arrived in Jamaica on Sunday, now it was Saturday morning and time to leave for home. At the beginning of the week it looked like a long week. I had not slept well the first night and was thinking that it could be a personally unpleasant week ahead, but now on this Saturday morning I was ready to sign up for another week. We always have to deal with reality and reality includes responsibility--there is business back in Iowa that is waiting.
We had some excess mission funds that we divided among those who served us so well, Andy, Al, Chris, the cook, and those who helped them. Without them it would have been a tough week.
We ate a hearty breakfast, packed our bags, loaded into the van and headed to Montego Bay. We were not rushed for time so we shopped and ate lunch at Burger King and were at the air port by 1:30. Departure was not until 5:00 so we had a lot of waiting to do. It is always a zoo to clear security and customs. Our youngest team member was randomly selected for a special security search--he made it though with only a minor inconvenience.
Our plane left Montego Bay as the sun was setting, its a great picture that I do not have, inspiring memories of the past week. It was 85 F when we left, but on arrival in Minneapolis at 10:00 it was below zero and a ground blizzard. By the time we cleared customs, left the airport and were on our way home it was nearly midnight. By the time we took our passengers home through the blizzard and Helen and I arrived at our house, it was after 5:00 a.m. Sunday morning, January 4th, 2015. Not a good way to end a great week! Helen and I planned to go to church, but due to some truck problems and getting stuck in the driveway we decided that the Lord was telling us to stay home. It was good to be home!
Our Father's love,
Tom
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA (day 6)
There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment? (Ecclesiastes 2:24-25).
Day six was a day of rest and relaxation. Three days we worked hard, the fourth day was a day that combined inspiration, education and relaxation, but the sixth day was a day at the beach. We loaded the bus early because it was a 3 hour drive to Ocho Rios where we would spend the day shopping and generally touring and eating. The highlight of the day was swimming in the ocean and climbing Dunn's River Falls. We closed the day with a candle-light dinner in a sophisticated restaurant in Ocho Rios.
It was a great day. The beautiful sunshine, clear blue water, shopping for memorabilia, great food, and great fellowship made it one of those days that made me think, "If it is this good here on this earth,
Heaven is really going to be great!"
This day was a day of a kind of guilty pleasure for while we were enjoying a great day, a young man who was one of the cooks for the week was, and is, struggling with kidney disease. It will eventually take his life. He sought me out to talk about his problem the previous evening. In Jamaica medical treatment needs to be paid for before it is administered. Chris has difficulty paying for medication and treatment. I have sent support to him via his pastor. If you want to help, let me know!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Day six was a day of rest and relaxation. Three days we worked hard, the fourth day was a day that combined inspiration, education and relaxation, but the sixth day was a day at the beach. We loaded the bus early because it was a 3 hour drive to Ocho Rios where we would spend the day shopping and generally touring and eating. The highlight of the day was swimming in the ocean and climbing Dunn's River Falls. We closed the day with a candle-light dinner in a sophisticated restaurant in Ocho Rios.
It was a great day. The beautiful sunshine, clear blue water, shopping for memorabilia, great food, and great fellowship made it one of those days that made me think, "If it is this good here on this earth,
This day was a day of a kind of guilty pleasure for while we were enjoying a great day, a young man who was one of the cooks for the week was, and is, struggling with kidney disease. It will eventually take his life. He sought me out to talk about his problem the previous evening. In Jamaica medical treatment needs to be paid for before it is administered. Chris has difficulty paying for medication and treatment. I have sent support to him via his pastor. If you want to help, let me know!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Sunday, February 01, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA (day 5)
Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world (James 1:27).
New Year's day was day five. It has always been a personal tradition of mine to spend this holiday watching football games all day long. Funny, I did not miss not watching them this year. Because we were out until after midnight watching the new year come in we slept a little longer this Thursday morning.
New Year's day was day five. It has always been a personal tradition of mine to spend this holiday watching football games all day long. Funny, I did not miss not watching them this year. Because we were out until after midnight watching the new year come in we slept a little longer this Thursday morning.
The working part of our trip was over, so, in the morning we all loaded in the bus and drove about an hour to the Westhaven Children's Home. WCH is a home for special-needs people and orphans. Because of the great amount of poverty there are some who just leave their children at WCH to be cared for. Of the special-needs people who are there, a good percentage of them are adults. WHC is supposed to be government funded, but the primary funding is from Christian churches and charitable groups. The home is under-funded so the residents care is modest, but it is good. Those special needs people taught us that, even though their situation is far from normal, they value their lives, being happy and enjoying the time we spent with them.
The afternoon was spent at a community celebration watching a cricket match, exciting at watching grass grow, and a dynamic game of dominoes--they were very animated--they were smoking something interesting. We also visited an early German settlement from the 19th century. It was both an inspiring and interesting day.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Thursday, January 29, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA 4 (a glimpse of Heaven)
But Jesus called them saying, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God" (Luke 18:16).
Day four found us completing our assigned work projects. In the afternoon's of Tuesday and Wednesday we did Bible school for the children, though a number of adults came as well. It made me think that we could have had an adult class too.
The lovely and gracious Helen directed the Bible school and it went very well. There were games and treats for the kids along with the lessons. We brought soccer balls with us, soccer being their national game. The kids loved them and played with them, but in the area where we were there was no sizable parcel of level ground to play much of a game.
The picture is of me cranking the swing on new years day--what an inventive use of an automobile differential!
Late in the evening, 10:00 p.m., our team went to church for a gospel sing and a sermon. There was a little music that I recognized, but most of it I did not. However, when those folks sing they sing with gusto. Pastor Sheldon Ashman preached on crossing over into the new year. We will all cross over into a new existence. Just as it is unavoidable that one crosses over into a new year, it is also unavoidable that in death one will cross over into a new existence, Every one has a choice as to what that crossing over reality will be, life or second death.
About 20 minutes before midnite, the church began to fill with people. They have the belief that if one is not in church on new year's eve it is bad luck. At midnite there was lots of singing and dancing and hugging. Those black folks seemed to love hugging us! That experience made me think that Heaven is going to be a wonderful place! People from every nation, race and tongue will be there singing, dancing and hugging, worshipping our awesome God!!!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA 3
Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him (Psalms 103:13).
Today we painted at the pastor's house. There was trim to paint. Some parts of the house required 2 coats and there was some roof work that required repair. It would require all the time allotted for the project to complete it.
The picture is of the scene we saw each morning when we stepped out of our sleeping quarters. Though there is much poverty in Jamaica, the Lord has blessed them with a beautiful land and a mild climate.
Today we painted at the pastor's house. There was trim to paint. Some parts of the house required 2 coats and there was some roof work that required repair. It would require all the time allotted for the project to complete it.
The picture is of the scene we saw each morning when we stepped out of our sleeping quarters. Though there is much poverty in Jamaica, the Lord has blessed them with a beautiful land and a mild climate.
Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon found our team doing Bible school for the children of the community. We did not know how many children to expect, but my wife did a masterful job of planning. There were about 50 children, and some adults, who attended each day. We had a Bible lesson and games. We packed all the supplies needed for this school in our own luggage. I thought the school was a big success. Our team included 5 high-school kids who I thought performed very well during this trip.
Tuesday evening's devotions: Out mission director told his life story--30 minutes. Then he had us break into small groups and we were to tell our own stories to each other. I hate doing this because it can just become telling "war stories." Also, because of the dissimilarity of our groups and confidentiality issues, I do not believe it is safe. That being said, it did help us to get to know our teammates much better, even though we thought we knew them. It is comforting to know that God has compassion on His children!!!
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Monday, January 19, 2015
JAMAICA MISSION 2
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4).
Day 2 was actually our first day of work. It was a bright sunny day. When we arrived in the dark, we could not see the beauty of the area, but in the morning we were stunned by the beauty of this part of Jamaica. Our team ate a hearty breakfast, filled out water bottles and started to work painting the manse, the pastor and his family's residence. The picture is of me on an old ladder that I am surprised held together. It was one of two ladders we had to do this job. They were both unsafe, and it was risky using them, but they held together.
We gave the house its first coat of paint on Monday. It was a hot, muggy day so we consumed a lot of water. I've always believed summer weather is more healthful than winter because a person is forced to consume more water--this mid-winter retreat in Jamaica was good for us northerners!
Our team worked well together, our members were cooperative and kind, and though it was early in the week, they continued to be that way the whole week.
Each evening we had a time after the meal for devotion and reflection. It was an important time, and a couple of times during the week made me uncomfortable. Once in a while it is good to get pushed out of one's comfort zone!
The things that made it hard for me to sleep at night were the barking dogs, crowing roosters, my stuffed-up sinuses and sleeping on a concrete floor. But, even with all these impediments, by the end of the week I was sleeping like a baby. I have to say that Jamaica has lots and lots of wild dogs. It seemed like their nightly dog fights were right under our windows.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, January 17, 2015
MISSION TO JAMAICA 1
So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith (Galatians 6:10).
On Sunday, December 28th, my birthday, a team of people from my church in Sutherland, Iowa, flew directly from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Montego Bay, Jamaica. It was about a 4 hour flight. Our purpose was to work with brothers and sisters in Christ of St. Leonard's Perish, a rural area in the mountains, to paint their pastor's house and do a Bible school for the children of the village.
It was very cold in Minnesota, but very warm in Jamaica. By the time we arrived at our destination in Jamaica it was after dark and late, but a large supper was prepared for us and their was a large birthday cake for my birthday. It is a bad habit of mine to eat too much, so with that and the stress of the day's travel, I did not sleep well at all that first night. I thought it would be a miserable week, but I couldn't have been more wrong. Our fellowship with each other and our Jamaican brothers and sisters made this trip a wonderful blessing for us all.
More soon.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
On Sunday, December 28th, my birthday, a team of people from my church in Sutherland, Iowa, flew directly from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Montego Bay, Jamaica. It was about a 4 hour flight. Our purpose was to work with brothers and sisters in Christ of St. Leonard's Perish, a rural area in the mountains, to paint their pastor's house and do a Bible school for the children of the village.
It was very cold in Minnesota, but very warm in Jamaica. By the time we arrived at our destination in Jamaica it was after dark and late, but a large supper was prepared for us and their was a large birthday cake for my birthday. It is a bad habit of mine to eat too much, so with that and the stress of the day's travel, I did not sleep well at all that first night. I thought it would be a miserable week, but I couldn't have been more wrong. Our fellowship with each other and our Jamaican brothers and sisters made this trip a wonderful blessing for us all.
More soon.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Thursday, January 15, 2015
THE END IS NEAR!
But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons . . . (I Timothy 4:1).
Some things I write in Silver Bullets are simply a matter of historical note. This is nothing more than that, but surely this has to be a sign that the end of the world as we know it is near. I am a frequent reader, but non commentator, of the Blue Oval News. There was an apparent leak from someone knowledgeable about Ford Motor Company that after 2017 there will be no more V-8's in the Mustang or the F-150 truck.
That will be a sad day. There is something about the sound of a V8 engine that cannot be replicated by any other engine--though the rumble of a Harley V twin comes close. The sound of a well-tuned V-8 is assuring that all is well with the universe. Other engine configurations might be able to do the work, but none of the others can deliver the same message and music.
A V-8 is truly one of our Father's blessings,
Tom
Some things I write in Silver Bullets are simply a matter of historical note. This is nothing more than that, but surely this has to be a sign that the end of the world as we know it is near. I am a frequent reader, but non commentator, of the Blue Oval News. There was an apparent leak from someone knowledgeable about Ford Motor Company that after 2017 there will be no more V-8's in the Mustang or the F-150 truck.
That will be a sad day. There is something about the sound of a V8 engine that cannot be replicated by any other engine--though the rumble of a Harley V twin comes close. The sound of a well-tuned V-8 is assuring that all is well with the universe. Other engine configurations might be able to do the work, but none of the others can deliver the same message and music.
A V-8 is truly one of our Father's blessings,
Tom
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
DOES IT MATTER?
But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving thanks (Ephesians 5:3-4).
These days, even among Christians, holiness doesn't seem to matter. Even our pastors watch television sitcoms and go to movies in which all of the content that Paul describes occurs. I've seen Christian pastors incorporate much of this behavior into their lives in the name of freedom in Christ. But, Paul went on to warn those who practice these things: For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God (Ephesians 5:5).
Church discipline seems to be a thing of the past. Christians live together without marriage. They are greedy, always wanting more. They do not deny themselves for the sake of the Kingdom.
I read these words from the Apostle this morning during my daily Bible reading. These words are sobering!! They reminded me of my own personal immaturity and the immaturity in my own congregation, of which I am one of the leaders.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
These days, even among Christians, holiness doesn't seem to matter. Even our pastors watch television sitcoms and go to movies in which all of the content that Paul describes occurs. I've seen Christian pastors incorporate much of this behavior into their lives in the name of freedom in Christ. But, Paul went on to warn those who practice these things: For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God (Ephesians 5:5).
Church discipline seems to be a thing of the past. Christians live together without marriage. They are greedy, always wanting more. They do not deny themselves for the sake of the Kingdom.
I read these words from the Apostle this morning during my daily Bible reading. These words are sobering!! They reminded me of my own personal immaturity and the immaturity in my own congregation, of which I am one of the leaders.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Thursday, January 08, 2015
READY TO GO
Love is patient . . . (I Corinthians 13:4).
There might be one or two readers out there, I think Husker Red is one of them, who wonder where I have been the last couple of months.
It all started with some password problems and then bathroom construction in the basement, Holidays, a trip to Jamaica and some bad winter weather, but with patience and perseverance, I think I'm ready to begin writing a "bullet" or two.
A week ago Helen and I were enjoying 85 degree weather on a short-term mission trip in Jamaica. We came home to relentless cold and blizzards. I think I am hearing the Lord's call to go back and spend another month there doing short-term mission work. Want to come along?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
There might be one or two readers out there, I think Husker Red is one of them, who wonder where I have been the last couple of months.
It all started with some password problems and then bathroom construction in the basement, Holidays, a trip to Jamaica and some bad winter weather, but with patience and perseverance, I think I'm ready to begin writing a "bullet" or two.
A week ago Helen and I were enjoying 85 degree weather on a short-term mission trip in Jamaica. We came home to relentless cold and blizzards. I think I am hearing the Lord's call to go back and spend another month there doing short-term mission work. Want to come along?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
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