We had such a wonderful day today at Quaker Haven. The children are looking forward to camp in a few weeks.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
What A Great Day!
We had such a wonderful day today at Quaker Haven. The children are looking forward to camp in a few weeks.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Love One Another
Love one another as I have loved you, he did not say love only those of your religion, only those who attend your church, who believe everything you believe, but love one another as I have loved you. He loved us so much that he withstood beatings, taunting and ultimately death on a cross, how many of us could say that we love anyone enough to go through just one of those things, much less all. He was not asking us to do anything he himself was not willing to do, he was not asking us to have a feeling; he was telling us to make a decision to love even the people you do not agree with. Those that drive us up the wall, those that make it very hard to like them much less love them and those who believe in him even if they do not necessarily worship in the same manner you do.
Hard pill to swallow isn't it, to love people you can not stand, but he loved you, when you were not the upstanding Christian you are today. He loved you when you stumbled home at night after an all night binge, he loved you when you couldn't wait till you were married, he loved you when you took what did not belong to you, he loved you when you hated yourself, he waited their patiently for you to come to him. He listened and heard your prayers even though you only noticed him when you needed something and only went to church because you were afraid he wouldn't listen if you didn't. He loved you even when you thought his name was only to be used to get a point across when you were mad; love one another as I have loved you.
Hard pill to swallow isn't it, to love people you can not stand, but he loved you, when you were not the upstanding Christian you are today. He loved you when you stumbled home at night after an all night binge, he loved you when you couldn't wait till you were married, he loved you when you took what did not belong to you, he loved you when you hated yourself, he waited their patiently for you to come to him. He listened and heard your prayers even though you only noticed him when you needed something and only went to church because you were afraid he wouldn't listen if you didn't. He loved you even when you thought his name was only to be used to get a point across when you were mad; love one another as I have loved you.
Words I would use to describe a Christian
humble
faithful
kind
sincere
compassionate
loving
generous
grateful
peaceful
joyful
faithful
kind
sincere
compassionate
loving
generous
grateful
peaceful
joyful
Thursday, May 28, 2009
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I am saved."
I'm whispering "I get lost"
That is why I chose this way.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
And need someone to be my guide.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I am weak
And pray for strength to carry on.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are too visible
But God believes I'm worth it.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
Which is why I seek HIS name.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority
I only know I'm loved.
by Maya Angelou
I'm not shouting "I am saved."
I'm whispering "I get lost"
That is why I chose this way.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
And need someone to be my guide.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I am weak
And pray for strength to carry on.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are too visible
But God believes I'm worth it.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
Which is why I seek HIS name.
When I say "I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority
I only know I'm loved.
by Maya Angelou
Journey Through Darkness and Light
I have walked through darkness and I have looked to things for comfort and numbness and newness and relief that only left me in that same darkness. I have wandered in a blindness that I could not see and followed those who were also blind. I have hurt those closest to me and I have felt that same hurt with no resources within me to bridge the gap - the chasm that anger and ignorance create. I have been helpless; I have been hopeless; I have been heartless - I have been numb to the world because I felt it was what I must do to extinguish the pain in my heart - in my soul. I saw my father wither away because he could not come to terms with the demons ripping his life away from him. From the age of sixteen he wandered through that same darkness, but he never found the light he needed to free himself from the chains of sin and sadness that plagued him until he could do nothing but let himself drown in the blackness around him. I wish I could go back and share with him what I have found. I wish he would not have given up on finding the light that we all have deep inside us. Being able to hand everything in my life over to Christ and to know that He is with me and guiding me at all times gives me such peace of mind - more than any art, any poetry, any music, more than silence, more than nature, more than sun, or moon, or stars. We are so lucky to have a savior who is the embodiment of love and who is active every single day in our lives and in the world around us. His grace rains down on us and we do not even stop to feel the drops wash over our faces. He is Light He is Love He is Joy He is Hope He is Freedom He is life. I am so lucky to have found such an amazing group of people to share my life and my path in Christ with. What a family we have become and what friends have we met through this church. I am truly in awe of the Holy Spirit and how it continues to weave into the fabric of Hinkle Creek. Thank you all so much and thank you Jesus.
Always with love and thanks,
Will
Always with love and thanks,
Will
Book of Job
www.gotquestions.org
Practical Application: The Book of Job reminds us that there is a "cosmic conflict" going on the behind the scenes that we usually know nothing about. Often we wonder why God allows something, and we question or doubt God's goodness, without seeing the full picture. The Book of Job teaches us to trust God under all circumstances. We must trust God, not only WHEN we do not understand, but BECAUSE we do not understand. The Psalmist tells us “As for God, His way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30). If God’s ways are “perfect,” then we can trust that whatever He does—and whatever He allows—is also perfect. This may not seem possible to us, but our minds are not God’s mind. It is true that we can’t expect to understand His mind perfectly, as He reminds us “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). Nevertheless, our responsibility to God is to obey Him, to trust Him and to submit to His will, whether we understand it or not.
Practical Application: The Book of Job reminds us that there is a "cosmic conflict" going on the behind the scenes that we usually know nothing about. Often we wonder why God allows something, and we question or doubt God's goodness, without seeing the full picture. The Book of Job teaches us to trust God under all circumstances. We must trust God, not only WHEN we do not understand, but BECAUSE we do not understand. The Psalmist tells us “As for God, His way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30). If God’s ways are “perfect,” then we can trust that whatever He does—and whatever He allows—is also perfect. This may not seem possible to us, but our minds are not God’s mind. It is true that we can’t expect to understand His mind perfectly, as He reminds us “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). Nevertheless, our responsibility to God is to obey Him, to trust Him and to submit to His will, whether we understand it or not.
Book of Romans
http://www.gotquestions.org/Book-of-Romans.html
Author: Romans 1:1 identifies the author of the book of Romans as the apostle Paul. Romans 16:22 indicates that Paul used a man name Tertius to transcribe his words.
Date of Writing: The book of Romans was likely written A.D. 56-58.
Purpose of Writing: As with all Paul’s epistles to the churches, his purpose in writing was to proclaim the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by teaching doctrine and edify and encourage the believers who would receive his letter. Of particular concern to Paul were those to whom this letter was written—those in Rome who were “loved by God and called to be saints” (Romans 1:7). Because he himself was a Roman citizen, he had a unique passion for those in the assembly of believers in Rome. Since he had not, to this point, visited the church in Rome, this letter also served as his introduction to them.
Key Verses: Romans 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of every one who believes, first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.”
Romans 3:9-11, “What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God.’”
Romans 3:21, “But now a righteousness from God apart from the law, has been made known, to which the Law and Prophets testify.”
Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:9, “You however, are controlled not by the sinful nature, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.”
Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:37-39, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 10:9-10, “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”
Romans 12:1, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, this is your spiritual act of worship.”
Romans 12:19, “Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord,”
Romans 16:17, “I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.”
Brief Summary: Paul was excited about being able to minister at last in this church, and everyone was well aware of that fact (Romans 1:8-15). The letter to the Romans was written from Corinth just prior to Paul’s trip to Jerusalem to deliver the alms that had been given for the poor there. He had intended to go to Rome and then on to Spain (Romans 15:24), but his plans were interrupted when he was arrested in Jerusalem. He would eventually go to Rome as a prisoner. Phoebe, who was a member of the church at Cenchrea near Corinth (Romans 16:1), most likely carried the letter to Rome.
The book of Romans is primarily a work of doctrine and can be divided into four sections: righteousness needed, 1:18–3:20; righteousness provided, 3:21–8:39; righteousness vindicated, 9:1–11:36; righteousness practiced, 12:1–15:13. The main theme of this letter is obvious of course—righteousness. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Paul first condemns all men of their sinfulness. He expresses his desire to preach the truth of God’s Word to those in Rome. It was his hope to have assurance they were staying on the right path. He strongly points out that he is not ashamed of the gospel (Romans 1:16), because it is the power by which everyone is saved.
The book of Romans tells us about God, who He is and what He has done. It tells us of Jesus Christ, what His death accomplished. It tells us about ourselves, what we were like without Christ and who we are after trusting in Christ. Paul points out that God did not demand men have their lives straightened out before coming to Christ. While we were still sinners Christ died on a cross for our sins.
Connections: Paul uses several Old Testament people and events as illustrations of the glorious truths in the book of Romans. Abraham believed and righteousness was imputed to him by his faith, not by his works (Romans 4:1-5). In Romans 4:6-9, Paul refers to David who reiterated the same truth: “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." Paul uses Adam to explain to the Romans the doctrine of inherited sin and he uses the story of Sarah and Isaac, the child of promise, to illustrate the principle of Christians being the children of the promise of the divine grace of God through Christ. In chapters 9–11, Paul recounts the history of the nation of Israel and declares that God has not completely and finally rejected Israel (Romans 11:11-12), but has allowed them to “stumble” only until the full number of the Gentiles will be brought to salvation.
Practical Application: The book of Romans makes it clear that there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. Every “good” deed we have ever done is as a filthy rag before God. So dead in our trespasses and sins are we that only the grace and mercy of God can save us. God expressed that grace and mercy by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in our place. When we turn our lives over to Christ, we are no longer controlled by our sin nature, but we are controlled by the Spirit. If we make confession that Jesus is Lord, and believe that He is raised from the dead, we are saved, born again. We need to live our lives offered to God as a living sacrifice to Him. Worship of the God who saved us should be our highest desire. Perhaps the best application of Romans would be to apply Romans 1:16 and not be ashamed of the gospel. Instead, let us all be faithful in proclaiming it!
Author: Romans 1:1 identifies the author of the book of Romans as the apostle Paul. Romans 16:22 indicates that Paul used a man name Tertius to transcribe his words.
Date of Writing: The book of Romans was likely written A.D. 56-58.
Purpose of Writing: As with all Paul’s epistles to the churches, his purpose in writing was to proclaim the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by teaching doctrine and edify and encourage the believers who would receive his letter. Of particular concern to Paul were those to whom this letter was written—those in Rome who were “loved by God and called to be saints” (Romans 1:7). Because he himself was a Roman citizen, he had a unique passion for those in the assembly of believers in Rome. Since he had not, to this point, visited the church in Rome, this letter also served as his introduction to them.
Key Verses: Romans 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of every one who believes, first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.”
Romans 3:9-11, “What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God.’”
Romans 3:21, “But now a righteousness from God apart from the law, has been made known, to which the Law and Prophets testify.”
Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:9, “You however, are controlled not by the sinful nature, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.”
Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:37-39, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 10:9-10, “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”
Romans 12:1, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, this is your spiritual act of worship.”
Romans 12:19, “Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord,”
Romans 16:17, “I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.”
Brief Summary: Paul was excited about being able to minister at last in this church, and everyone was well aware of that fact (Romans 1:8-15). The letter to the Romans was written from Corinth just prior to Paul’s trip to Jerusalem to deliver the alms that had been given for the poor there. He had intended to go to Rome and then on to Spain (Romans 15:24), but his plans were interrupted when he was arrested in Jerusalem. He would eventually go to Rome as a prisoner. Phoebe, who was a member of the church at Cenchrea near Corinth (Romans 16:1), most likely carried the letter to Rome.
The book of Romans is primarily a work of doctrine and can be divided into four sections: righteousness needed, 1:18–3:20; righteousness provided, 3:21–8:39; righteousness vindicated, 9:1–11:36; righteousness practiced, 12:1–15:13. The main theme of this letter is obvious of course—righteousness. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Paul first condemns all men of their sinfulness. He expresses his desire to preach the truth of God’s Word to those in Rome. It was his hope to have assurance they were staying on the right path. He strongly points out that he is not ashamed of the gospel (Romans 1:16), because it is the power by which everyone is saved.
The book of Romans tells us about God, who He is and what He has done. It tells us of Jesus Christ, what His death accomplished. It tells us about ourselves, what we were like without Christ and who we are after trusting in Christ. Paul points out that God did not demand men have their lives straightened out before coming to Christ. While we were still sinners Christ died on a cross for our sins.
Connections: Paul uses several Old Testament people and events as illustrations of the glorious truths in the book of Romans. Abraham believed and righteousness was imputed to him by his faith, not by his works (Romans 4:1-5). In Romans 4:6-9, Paul refers to David who reiterated the same truth: “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." Paul uses Adam to explain to the Romans the doctrine of inherited sin and he uses the story of Sarah and Isaac, the child of promise, to illustrate the principle of Christians being the children of the promise of the divine grace of God through Christ. In chapters 9–11, Paul recounts the history of the nation of Israel and declares that God has not completely and finally rejected Israel (Romans 11:11-12), but has allowed them to “stumble” only until the full number of the Gentiles will be brought to salvation.
Practical Application: The book of Romans makes it clear that there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. Every “good” deed we have ever done is as a filthy rag before God. So dead in our trespasses and sins are we that only the grace and mercy of God can save us. God expressed that grace and mercy by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in our place. When we turn our lives over to Christ, we are no longer controlled by our sin nature, but we are controlled by the Spirit. If we make confession that Jesus is Lord, and believe that He is raised from the dead, we are saved, born again. We need to live our lives offered to God as a living sacrifice to Him. Worship of the God who saved us should be our highest desire. Perhaps the best application of Romans would be to apply Romans 1:16 and not be ashamed of the gospel. Instead, let us all be faithful in proclaiming it!
The painting is by J.D. Penrose, painted in 1918, inspired by a story that happened in rural New York in 1775.
Psalms91
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Bible Study
Last night was fabulous! Thank You Bob and Paulette for having all of us over to your home. And I would like to say that if you have never been to a Bible study yet it's never to late to jump in. And it was really nice to see so many people show up last night. It was such a beautiful evening. The kids all played in the back yard and it was so much fun watching them run and play. The food was delicious. We had homegrown radishes and green onions from the Stubb's garden. Paulette's homecooking is always appreciated and the grilling was perfect! Will prepared a really good lesson for us all from Romans and we all talked about how we treat one another and what being a Christian means to us. Afterwards the kids talked about what Quaker Haven will be like and what to take. They are so excited and I'm so excited for them. I got to see Heather's video she is making with pictures and music from church. It is very cool already and she's not done working on it yet. Conner spilled orange soda on the table and dropped a sliced tomato on the floor but Paulette, being the wise Woman that she is has made her home Conner proof with hard wood floors and table pads and covers. Boy was I relieved. We weren't sure about going last night and I'm so glad we did. Our kids kept asking us if we were going or not so I knew they were excited about it and they pouted when we didn't go last week. Isn't that great? My kids love our church as much as we do. That makes me a very happy Mom.
Romans 12:9-21
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"says the Lord.On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"says the Lord.On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 8:28
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Let's count some blessings
Bible Study
Sunday School
Our Blog
Our Newsletter
Our Youth Group
Our Children
Our Meeting House
Each Other
Our Faith
Our meals together
Our Musicians
Our Laughter
Truth
Peace
Love
Trust
Prayer
Sunday School
Our Blog
Our Newsletter
Our Youth Group
Our Children
Our Meeting House
Each Other
Our Faith
Our meals together
Our Musicians
Our Laughter
Truth
Peace
Love
Trust
Prayer
Samuel Caldwell's 11/1998 evening talk at Pendle Hill, "The Time Has Come to Choose."
God gives to every human being to every human being who comes into the world – regardless of race, religion, gender, or station – a measure of the eternal Light to be inwardly guided by on a daily basis. That Inner Light is supernatural, personal, universal, saving, eternal, persistent, and pure. The chief end of religious life is to learn to listen to and act upon the promptings of this Light under the authority of God and within the bonds of human community.
Picture/Camp/Last night
I guess I need to cover three subjects here all in one post. I just love the title under the picture with the words that came from the song Mike wrote about Hinkle. A place where love grows. Oh how appropriate! After everyone left our house last evening, I could still feel that glow of love that spilled from everyone there. It's nice to have that sort of spirit in our home. I just want to say how much we enjoyed everyone coming and feeling right at home - it was awesome! I loved our study in Romans. That book of the Bible has so many guideposts for all of us to live by. I think the deeper I get into my walk with Christ, the more He is revealing to me in so many areas. Last night checked my spirit about how easy it is to judge other people whether they have a visible walk with Christ or not. We never know what is in someone's heart and how God is dealing with them on an everyday basis. We sure don't need to muddy the waters for anyone by placing unneccesary judgement on something we know nothing about. I don't know about all of you, but I have enough things to deal with in my own life without being concerned about someone else. I don't mean to say I'm not concerned about others and their needs - that's what this ministry is all about - but not in a judgemental way. I just want to be a vessel of love and a caring spirit to those who need someone to be in their corner. I just love everyone so much and the love is growing more and more in me each day.
Now - about Camp. I would really like it if all of you who have kids going to go ahead and fill out the registration form and have it ready to take with us on Saturday. We will get a check so we can turn in the deposits on that day. That would be really helpful to hand deliver them, then if there are any questions, they can be resolved while we are there.
Marianne Isaacs is going to meet us up there and she is going to try to arrange it for us to have lunch there so you can all taste the great food they provide. I believe the cost would be around $6.00 per person if you could have that with you. They have a professional chef there and you will be impressed with his great cooking.
Well, that's it for now. I pray you all have a great day and we will see you on Saturday morning at the Church at 8:00 a.m.
Now - about Camp. I would really like it if all of you who have kids going to go ahead and fill out the registration form and have it ready to take with us on Saturday. We will get a check so we can turn in the deposits on that day. That would be really helpful to hand deliver them, then if there are any questions, they can be resolved while we are there.
Marianne Isaacs is going to meet us up there and she is going to try to arrange it for us to have lunch there so you can all taste the great food they provide. I believe the cost would be around $6.00 per person if you could have that with you. They have a professional chef there and you will be impressed with his great cooking.
Well, that's it for now. I pray you all have a great day and we will see you on Saturday morning at the Church at 8:00 a.m.
Perspective
Last night when Will asked us why we thought that Christianity was sometimes looked upon negatively I was trying to say that I believe the great deceiver can make beautiful things, like generosity and love look ugly and destructive things, like greed and hate seem desirable. I know that bad things are done sometimes in the name of Christianity and that does not help our cause. We as Christians can sometimes judge one another too harshly as well. All good reasons to follow Jesus.
Before I became a Christian I had a reoccurring dream that I was standing on the sidewalk looking across the street and the side of the street I was standing on was dark and scary and everything was broken and messy. But across the street everything was nice and new and bright and lovely. I would pace up and down the sidewalk and I would look across the street and try to get the courage to cross the street.
After I became a Christian and this part is not a dream, I was standing in my front yard one day and I looked across the street and there was a house there and the woman that lived there was really living a hard life and her home was falling apart and her yard was a mess and her life was a mess. I knew her and I liked her but I knew she was living a destructive lifestyle and I knew she wasn't happy. And it was then that I realized that I didn't have that scary dream anymore and that I had made it to the other side of the street. It was like I was looking at my old life and I cannot tell you how safe and comforted I felt at that moment. I did fear for My neighbor though because I had walked in her shoes and I knew how it felt to be stuck like she was. I am not judging her, I could just see what she was going through and I had empathy for her.
I feel way more free now that I am a Christian than I ever felt when I was running wild doing my own thing.
One time I stayed the night at at some friends house and we had a party and stayed up late and we had arrived when it was dark and ended up staying the night. The next morning when I went to leave it was a beautiful morning and I did not feel very good from having stayed up late the night before and when I stepped outside on a bright and beautiful Sunday morning I realized the house was right next to a little country church and everyone was just arriving to church all fresh and happy. They seemed a million miles away from me yet they were right in front of me. It was a very strange and I must say quite uncomfortable feeling. It felt a little like a slap in the face, it was as if this little church had appeared out of no where. I should have walked straight over right then and there, just imagine that.
I had another similar experience when I went to my first Gaither concert. I was sitting in the third row and it was a relatively small venue for the Gaithers. I was not yet a Christian. I had been to concerts all my life and I was a little worried that this was going to be really lame. I started looking around the room before the show began and I couldn't help notice how happy everyone looked and the vibe in the room was really nice. Stephanie was 5 at the time and was not feeling well and fell asleep on her grandpa Danny's lap. She was running a slight fever and slept through the whole concert. I was absolutely stunned by the awesome talent that night and I had a wonderful time. This was not like any other concert I had ever been to. After the concert Steph woke up and her fever had broken. Her Grandpa was so thrilled and I was deeply touched by the whole experience.
When I first became a Christian some of my friends were upset with me. They thought I was crazy. But I can honestly say I never doubted what I was doing. I was shocked though that they couldn't see the changes in me.
So, to me Christianity means walking on the sunny side of life. I now that is a simple view but it's how I look at it.
Keep on the Sunny Side
Carter, A P; Garrett, Gary
There's a dark & a troubled side of life
There's a bright, there's a sunny side, too
Tho' we meet with the darkness and strife
The sunny side we also may view
[cho:] Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side,
Keep on the sunny side of life
It will help us ev'ry day, it will brighten all the way
If we'll keep on the sunny side of life
The storm and its fury broke today,
Crushing hopes that we cherish so dear;
Clouds and storms will, in time, pass away
The sun again will shine bright and clear.
Let us greet with the song of hope each day
Tho' the moment be cloudy or fair
Let us trust in our Saviour away
Who keepeth everyone in His care
Before I became a Christian I had a reoccurring dream that I was standing on the sidewalk looking across the street and the side of the street I was standing on was dark and scary and everything was broken and messy. But across the street everything was nice and new and bright and lovely. I would pace up and down the sidewalk and I would look across the street and try to get the courage to cross the street.
After I became a Christian and this part is not a dream, I was standing in my front yard one day and I looked across the street and there was a house there and the woman that lived there was really living a hard life and her home was falling apart and her yard was a mess and her life was a mess. I knew her and I liked her but I knew she was living a destructive lifestyle and I knew she wasn't happy. And it was then that I realized that I didn't have that scary dream anymore and that I had made it to the other side of the street. It was like I was looking at my old life and I cannot tell you how safe and comforted I felt at that moment. I did fear for My neighbor though because I had walked in her shoes and I knew how it felt to be stuck like she was. I am not judging her, I could just see what she was going through and I had empathy for her.
I feel way more free now that I am a Christian than I ever felt when I was running wild doing my own thing.
One time I stayed the night at at some friends house and we had a party and stayed up late and we had arrived when it was dark and ended up staying the night. The next morning when I went to leave it was a beautiful morning and I did not feel very good from having stayed up late the night before and when I stepped outside on a bright and beautiful Sunday morning I realized the house was right next to a little country church and everyone was just arriving to church all fresh and happy. They seemed a million miles away from me yet they were right in front of me. It was a very strange and I must say quite uncomfortable feeling. It felt a little like a slap in the face, it was as if this little church had appeared out of no where. I should have walked straight over right then and there, just imagine that.
I had another similar experience when I went to my first Gaither concert. I was sitting in the third row and it was a relatively small venue for the Gaithers. I was not yet a Christian. I had been to concerts all my life and I was a little worried that this was going to be really lame. I started looking around the room before the show began and I couldn't help notice how happy everyone looked and the vibe in the room was really nice. Stephanie was 5 at the time and was not feeling well and fell asleep on her grandpa Danny's lap. She was running a slight fever and slept through the whole concert. I was absolutely stunned by the awesome talent that night and I had a wonderful time. This was not like any other concert I had ever been to. After the concert Steph woke up and her fever had broken. Her Grandpa was so thrilled and I was deeply touched by the whole experience.
When I first became a Christian some of my friends were upset with me. They thought I was crazy. But I can honestly say I never doubted what I was doing. I was shocked though that they couldn't see the changes in me.
So, to me Christianity means walking on the sunny side of life. I now that is a simple view but it's how I look at it.
Keep on the Sunny Side
Carter, A P; Garrett, Gary
There's a dark & a troubled side of life
There's a bright, there's a sunny side, too
Tho' we meet with the darkness and strife
The sunny side we also may view
[cho:] Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side,
Keep on the sunny side of life
It will help us ev'ry day, it will brighten all the way
If we'll keep on the sunny side of life
The storm and its fury broke today,
Crushing hopes that we cherish so dear;
Clouds and storms will, in time, pass away
The sun again will shine bright and clear.
Let us greet with the song of hope each day
Tho' the moment be cloudy or fair
Let us trust in our Saviour away
Who keepeth everyone in His care
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
The Pioneer Woman
This is one of my favorite blogs. This woman lives on a cattle ranch out west and homeschools her Children. She is a great cook and photographer and loves to garden. I've added her blog as a link.
Tonight
It's looking like rain, so if it does we will have the meal and Bible study in the house. But, we are prepared either way. We will still have the grilled burgers, dogs, and smoked sausage anyway even if I have to stand out there under an umbrella! We are SO looking forward to everyone coming this evening. Wish more people would sign up for this blog so they could catch the latest happenings at Hinkle and in our lives. This is just great!
I added a feature!
I hope you like the color scheme change. I also added a feature where I can add links to other web sights that relate to ours. So, if you have a web sight that you visit frequently that you would like to share just post it on the blog and I will add it as a link! Fun! It is on the top right under the header, related web sights.
Bible Study
Just a reminder to everyone that we're starting Paul's Letter to the Romans tonight at Bob and Paulette's. I've really enjoyed giving it another look this week and I think it's got a lot to offer us in our paths as Christians. Also if you're coming to the Sunday Bible class, we're going to be working on the Book of Job, so that should be fairly interesting and quite a challenging subject to start out on, but I'm sure we can handle it.
"I myself feel confident about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another." Romans 15:14 (NRSV)
"I myself feel confident about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another." Romans 15:14 (NRSV)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Hinkle Creek Newsletter
Would you like to submit something for the Hinkle Creek Newsletter? A story, a poem, a picture. Where can your talents be shared with the many people that receive the newsletter? What a witness your talents can be for the outreach of our church.
Also we have a monthly corner from our very own Paulette Stubbs. If you have a question that you would like to ask Dear Paulette please send it to us.
Please send us your contributions to hinklecreeknewsletter@ymail.com
Also we have a monthly corner from our very own Paulette Stubbs. If you have a question that you would like to ask Dear Paulette please send it to us.
Please send us your contributions to hinklecreeknewsletter@ymail.com
Glimmers
I have been praying for my daughter to find some nice friends. She has struggled lately because she is at the age where friends sometimes fall away because kids her age are going through so many changes. I could see that she was yearning for some companionship with people her own age but wasn't really connecting with anyone. She told me she needed some friends and so I began to pray about this for her. Very shortly thereafter she was invited to a 2 cook-outs and 2 slumber parties. She was thrilled! I was so pleased and immediately recognized it as God's blessing because before this she was so lonely and now she's tired from having so much fun.
I was sitting and talking with Paulette in her kitchen and a hummingbird came up to the window and we watched it and talked about it and it was so special to me to see this adorable little bird so close up. Later that very same evening I was visiting with My Mom at her house and I picked up one of those books of Christian writings called Alive and when I opened the first page I saw a beautiful painting of a hummingbird and it reminded me of earlier in the day and it made me feel that I was where I was supposed to be.
This Morning on the way to work I asked God if He would give me a sign so I would know that I wasn't alone. I don't often do this but I had a empty feeling in my chest and was looking for assurance. I immediately felt silly for asking because God has been so faithful to Me always. Three seconds later the sunshine poured into my car, as the Sun came out from behind a cloud and I thought, Oh, that's nice, and at the exact same moment I drove over a white cross that someone had pained in the middle of the road. Now, if one or the other had happened I may not have noticed it so much but I asked God to give me something to go on and I saw a white cross and was showered with warm light immediately after my plea. I had to admit that was pretty poetic and I did feel better.
Just as I was beginning to write this post a young woman walked up to my desk. I have worked with her for 18 months. We have never spoken of faith before together. She had no idea what I was writing about or what I was doing at all for that matter. She began talking to me about how she was raised without any religious foundation and wondering what she will do when she has kids. We spoke for 30 minutes about how God only wants what is good for us and how it's important to educate your Children on these matters and how you shouldn't let Mans rules stand between you and God. It was a really great conversation and it definitely made me feel like My glimmer posts maybe are of value. Because the minute I started writing one I had the opportunity to tell someone why I am a Christian and I think I did an okay job. God was with Me. I have always wondered when he would think I was ready to speak to someone who was searching about My Faith in him. Maybe I needed to go out on a little limb, like writing about these things to all of you. I do feel very vulnerable telling you these things. But as long as God keeps whispering in my ear like this I feel like I want to share it with all of you.
I was sitting and talking with Paulette in her kitchen and a hummingbird came up to the window and we watched it and talked about it and it was so special to me to see this adorable little bird so close up. Later that very same evening I was visiting with My Mom at her house and I picked up one of those books of Christian writings called Alive and when I opened the first page I saw a beautiful painting of a hummingbird and it reminded me of earlier in the day and it made me feel that I was where I was supposed to be.
This Morning on the way to work I asked God if He would give me a sign so I would know that I wasn't alone. I don't often do this but I had a empty feeling in my chest and was looking for assurance. I immediately felt silly for asking because God has been so faithful to Me always. Three seconds later the sunshine poured into my car, as the Sun came out from behind a cloud and I thought, Oh, that's nice, and at the exact same moment I drove over a white cross that someone had pained in the middle of the road. Now, if one or the other had happened I may not have noticed it so much but I asked God to give me something to go on and I saw a white cross and was showered with warm light immediately after my plea. I had to admit that was pretty poetic and I did feel better.
Just as I was beginning to write this post a young woman walked up to my desk. I have worked with her for 18 months. We have never spoken of faith before together. She had no idea what I was writing about or what I was doing at all for that matter. She began talking to me about how she was raised without any religious foundation and wondering what she will do when she has kids. We spoke for 30 minutes about how God only wants what is good for us and how it's important to educate your Children on these matters and how you shouldn't let Mans rules stand between you and God. It was a really great conversation and it definitely made me feel like My glimmer posts maybe are of value. Because the minute I started writing one I had the opportunity to tell someone why I am a Christian and I think I did an okay job. God was with Me. I have always wondered when he would think I was ready to speak to someone who was searching about My Faith in him. Maybe I needed to go out on a little limb, like writing about these things to all of you. I do feel very vulnerable telling you these things. But as long as God keeps whispering in my ear like this I feel like I want to share it with all of you.
Trying to make sense
When we started this blog I had a little idea. I thought to myself. What if every time I feel the presence of God in my life I document it on the blog? Maybe, that way I can capture a part of what it means (to me) to be a Christian. Then,I would have a collection of these events and I can remember all the times I have been blessed. Sometimes it's something that is very small and after time I tend to forget how I felt. So, I am going to try this. These daily or weekly encounters play a big part of my Christianity and they are important to me but when I try to describe how it feels to be a Christian I can't always recall all of these times so easily. Hopefully,having them all in one place I can see a bigger picture of how I live and how I feel about Jesus and my relationship with him. Part of it is that no matter how small, I must include it. I will call these posts Glimmers so when I go to collect them later I can find them all. Please, everyone, join in on this if you care to. I think it would be great to see all the ways God shows us he loves us.
Quaker Life Magazine
Between Friends
By Katie Terrell, Editor
That all may know the dealings of the Lord with me, and the various exercises, trials, and troubles through which he led me, in order to prepare and fit me for the work unto which he had appointed me, and may thereby be drawn to admire and glorify his infinite wisdom and goodness, I think it fit . . .
— The Journal of George Fox, edited by Rufus M. Jones
George Fox opens his Journal with the above quotation to explain why he begins his story with a recount of his childhood. It is clear that he does not write for his own edification, but so that others may know how the Lord prepared him for ministry and in turn “be drawn to admire and glorify” the Lord. John Woolman concurs in the opening lines of his own Journal, “I have often felt a motion of love to leave some hints in writing of my experience of the goodness of God . . . ”
Friends have a long history of publishing as a means of sharing our experiences of the Divine, so long that before we became known as the Religious Society of Friends we called ourselves “Publishers of Truth.” That we were publishing, however, wasn’t as important as what we were publishing, and what we were publishing was Truth. Or, in the words of Matt Snyder, a young adult writer in this issue, “In my writing, I refuse to be a hypocrite” (p. 42). We have the ability to change the world for Christ with our words, but only if they are true.
J. Brent Bill, in his introduction to the anthology, Imagination and Spirit, writes, “For Quaker writers, the act of writing with God’s lightness resting upon us is both sacramental and evangelistic — a sharing of good news that finds expression in the big and little things of life.”
It should come as no surprise that Quakers today continue to celebrate writing as ministry. We write about our experiences of God “in the big and little things of life,” about “the dealings of the Lord” upon us, and thereby make God known to others. Books and other resources are a way for us to respond to Jesus’ great commission to, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15-16)
By Katie Terrell, Editor
That all may know the dealings of the Lord with me, and the various exercises, trials, and troubles through which he led me, in order to prepare and fit me for the work unto which he had appointed me, and may thereby be drawn to admire and glorify his infinite wisdom and goodness, I think it fit . . .
— The Journal of George Fox, edited by Rufus M. Jones
George Fox opens his Journal with the above quotation to explain why he begins his story with a recount of his childhood. It is clear that he does not write for his own edification, but so that others may know how the Lord prepared him for ministry and in turn “be drawn to admire and glorify” the Lord. John Woolman concurs in the opening lines of his own Journal, “I have often felt a motion of love to leave some hints in writing of my experience of the goodness of God . . . ”
Friends have a long history of publishing as a means of sharing our experiences of the Divine, so long that before we became known as the Religious Society of Friends we called ourselves “Publishers of Truth.” That we were publishing, however, wasn’t as important as what we were publishing, and what we were publishing was Truth. Or, in the words of Matt Snyder, a young adult writer in this issue, “In my writing, I refuse to be a hypocrite” (p. 42). We have the ability to change the world for Christ with our words, but only if they are true.
J. Brent Bill, in his introduction to the anthology, Imagination and Spirit, writes, “For Quaker writers, the act of writing with God’s lightness resting upon us is both sacramental and evangelistic — a sharing of good news that finds expression in the big and little things of life.”
It should come as no surprise that Quakers today continue to celebrate writing as ministry. We write about our experiences of God “in the big and little things of life,” about “the dealings of the Lord” upon us, and thereby make God known to others. Books and other resources are a way for us to respond to Jesus’ great commission to, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15-16)
I AM BLESSED
As I walked my dog this morning and was gathering my thoughts I started thinking about what I wanted to talk to God about this morning. My mind became rushed with so many things I wanted to say to him. But when I asked him to help me pray the only thing that seem to come out of my lips were Thank you God! I kept saying Thank you God. I would notice a bird on a branch singing and I would just say Thank you God. I noticed people working in the yard and I would say Thank you God. I had to run after my dog to keep up and I said Thank you God. As I was walking back home I became overwelmed with tears. I kept thinking I am so blessed. I can see, hear and run.
Blessed because he stayed upon that cross for me. He came to be an example for me. He showed me the way. He created the sun, the moon, the grass for me. At that moment this morning I felt one with him. I felt like he was picking me up giving me my morning hug as I went about my day.
I think of my son. God brought him into my life. He is apart of my soul. Each day I wake up excited to see him and excited to hear him say Hi Mom. I want him to love me. Does God feel that way about me?
The scripture John 17:21 comes to my mind: "I pray that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me"
As he faced death he was praying for us. The love he has for us is so amazing.
Some of the lyrics to the song "I am Blessed" keeps humming in my soul all day today.
Through the sunshine and rain
through the sorrow and pain,
everyday that I live, I am blessed,
when I wake up in the morning,
'til I lay my head to rest, I am blessed,
I am blessed.
Blessed because he stayed upon that cross for me. He came to be an example for me. He showed me the way. He created the sun, the moon, the grass for me. At that moment this morning I felt one with him. I felt like he was picking me up giving me my morning hug as I went about my day.
I think of my son. God brought him into my life. He is apart of my soul. Each day I wake up excited to see him and excited to hear him say Hi Mom. I want him to love me. Does God feel that way about me?
The scripture John 17:21 comes to my mind: "I pray that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me"
As he faced death he was praying for us. The love he has for us is so amazing.
Some of the lyrics to the song "I am Blessed" keeps humming in my soul all day today.
Through the sunshine and rain
through the sorrow and pain,
everyday that I live, I am blessed,
when I wake up in the morning,
'til I lay my head to rest, I am blessed,
I am blessed.
What should I bring to camp?
You will need: Bible, notebook, pen, sports clothing, bug repellant, sunscreen, jacket or sweatshirt, rain gear, two pairs of shoes, swimsuit, towels, washcloth, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, pillow, sleeping bag or bedroll. We suggest: beach shoes, camera, fishing gear, musical instrument and money for crafts, photo, and snacks. DO NOT BRING: radios, CD/MP3 Players, 2-way radios, cell phones, or any other expensive electronic devices.
Monday, May 25, 2009
An off day - I thought
I was blown out of the water as I read the posts from Ty and Will. It goes to show how God uses simple things to speak to hearts. For the first time in a long time, I came home yesterday feeling as though I had done a terrible job trying to express myself in the message and also felt a little pressure knowing I needed to recognize new members. I guess the devil was beating me up making me feel like I was a total failure in delivering the sermon. I told my wife that this was one of my worst "off days" that I had experienced in a long time. Just couldn't seem to get my thoughts together. Then, this morning I read the posts from Ty and Will and realized that sometimes, whatever the Lord lays on my heart may be for only one or two people. Thanks guys for restoring my confidence in trusting the Lord and leaving it with Him. I'm glad that the words the Lord gave me helped both of you - lets me know that satan was defeated! I guess I tend to be a perfectionist and when it doesn't go the way I think it should, I tend to feel defeated. But God does use the simple things to get His message across. You both have no idea how much I needed to hear that from you - makes me lift my head a little higher today. God Bless!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Thanks
Lately, I had asked for prayer. I was going through something that I had never dreamed that would happen. It was a state of indescribable confusion. I had been around a certain group of people (denomination) that, without knowing, would twist and turn the scripture. I was so confused that satan decided take advantage of the situation. (of course)
He was sticking thoughts in my mind such as ''What's the point in being a Christian?'' ''Remember when Jesus instructed all people to be holy because He is holy? You are not holy, why even try?'' ''Give up!''
I was the little lamb with no place to go. The wolf was out to get me. I called upon my shepherd, and I was saved. It was a result from contending for the faith, praying, listening, and waiting. Bob's messages played a big part. (Thank you Bob)
Thanks goes to all who prayed and believed during this time.
Thanks,
-Ty
He was sticking thoughts in my mind such as ''What's the point in being a Christian?'' ''Remember when Jesus instructed all people to be holy because He is holy? You are not holy, why even try?'' ''Give up!''
I was the little lamb with no place to go. The wolf was out to get me. I called upon my shepherd, and I was saved. It was a result from contending for the faith, praying, listening, and waiting. Bob's messages played a big part. (Thank you Bob)
Thanks goes to all who prayed and believed during this time.
Thanks,
-Ty
This Sunday's Message
Bob's message today really spoke to me and I think it's a great foundation for the future of our church. It has stayed with me the whole day and has shown up in the scripture I've been studying as well. It's always funny how that happens. Here is the scripture I'm referring to:
1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us must please our neighbor. 3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, 6 so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:1-6 (NRSV)
In our church, many people on many different paths have come to a place where those paths have suddenly converged - and if we have the light of Christ guiding our way and his unending love guiding our hearts "neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39) Like Paul said, we have the unique chance of being able to harmonize our voices in Christ's name not so they become a choir of many voices striving for many different things, but so they become one voice striving for One Greater Purpose: to glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
With love and thanks,
Will
1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us must please our neighbor. 3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, 6 so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:1-6 (NRSV)
In our church, many people on many different paths have come to a place where those paths have suddenly converged - and if we have the light of Christ guiding our way and his unending love guiding our hearts "neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39) Like Paul said, we have the unique chance of being able to harmonize our voices in Christ's name not so they become a choir of many voices striving for many different things, but so they become one voice striving for One Greater Purpose: to glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
With love and thanks,
Will
We Judge and Fail to See
I was reading Paul's epistle to the Romans today and I was drawn to a passage he wrote about how we, as humans, judge one another and fail to see that we, ourselves, display the same characteristics and perform the same acts as those we condemn. I think this is one of the most difficult things to recognize and change in ourselves because we sometimes turn a blind eye to our own shortcomings and project our disappointment on those around us. This is something I have personally struggled with and continue to look to Christ for guidance on. If we are true followers of Christ we must not make prejudgments based on looks, dress, culture, creed, race or political affiliation. We must love one another unconditionally because that's the example that Christ set forth for us. So much attention is given nowadays to the beliefs that man has developed supposedly relating to Christ that not enough is given to his true Word, Message and Spirit. If we want to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we must not look to man, but to God Himself.
1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. 2 But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. 3 And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? 5 But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 6 who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: 7 eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; 8 but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, 9 tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; 10 but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 11 For there is no partiality with God. - Romans 2:1-11
1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. 2 But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. 3 And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? 5 But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 6 who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: 7 eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; 8 but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, 9 tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; 10 but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 11 For there is no partiality with God. - Romans 2:1-11
Friday, May 22, 2009
.The Bible bill?
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.Victoria McGrane Victoria Mcgrane – Fri May 22, 5:40 am ET
When the clock strikes midnight on Dec. 31, 2009, Rep. Paul Broun (R-Ga.) hopes you’ll be ringing in “the Year of the Bible.”
It’s probably just wishful thinking.
Broun’s simple congressional resolution aimed at honoring the Good Book has produced a push-back of biblical proportion in the blogosphere, with critics dismissing it as either unconstitutional or a waste of time. Jews in Congress and atheist activists are dismissing the resolution, while none of the many Democrats in Congress who are Christian have bothered to sign on as co-sponsors.
According to GovTrak.us, the resolution is among the most-blogged-about pieces of legislation, with most posts less than complimentary in nature.
“Does that mean 2009 is not the year of the Bible?” mocked Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), who is Jewish. “What is 2012 the year of? The Quran?”
“That’s an endorsement of religion by the federal government, and we shouldn’t be doing that,” said Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), even though he has introduced his own legislation dealing with religion.
“Republican lawmakers with apparently too much time on their hands and no solutions to offer the country are pushing a resolution that will not address the nation’s problems or advance prosperity or even untangle their previous governing mistakes,” blogged the Progressive Puppy.
Broun rejects the critiques leveled at this effort.
“This doesn’t have anything to do with Christianity,” he said in an interview with POLITICO. Rather, he says, it seeks to recognize that the Bible played an integral role in the building of the United States, including providing the basis for our freedom of religion that allows Muslims, Hindus and even atheists to vocalize their own beliefs.
And even as Nadler criticized Broun, he has done his own share of mixing religion and legislation.
Last year, he introduced a bill that would overturn a federal appeals court ruling — an “idiot” decision, he says — that a condominium board in Chicago had the right to ban Jews from installing mezuzahs, which consist of a piece of parchment inscribed with a specific religious text put inside a case and hung on a door frame.
Condo boards shouldn’t be able to interfere in an individual’s right to practice his or her religion, Nadler said.
But he himself declined to install a mezuzah on his congressional office door when asked by a rabbi, even though he does so at home.
“That’s my religious symbol, and the office does not belong to me; it belongs to the people of the congressional district, and no one should feel uncomfortable walking into the office if it’s not their religion,” Nadler said, describing his feelings on religion and Congress.
“Same thing with the Bible. ... It’s not everybody’s religion. And the federal government should not be imposing religious viewpoints.”
Atheists, who might feel themselves a particular target with the declaration of a biblical year, aren’t even worried about Broun’s effort.
“Right now, we’re seeing atheism on such a rise,” said David Silverman, vice president and national spokesman of American Atheists, a group dedicated to fighting for the civil rights of atheists.
“We are seeing Christianity on such a dramatic decline that we’re not particularly worried about it. We’re thinking that this kind of old-style George W. Bush Republicanism is about to go away,” Silverman said, referring to the latest Pew Forum survey of American religious life, which showed nonreligious Americans as the fastest-growing group.
And it may be the best-selling book of all time, as Broun’s resolution points out, but the Bible isn’t such a popular legislative topic.
A search of Thomas, the online congressional database, for “Bible” yields just one other bill: a resolution to have the “Lincoln-Obama Bible” on permanent display in the Capitol Visitor Center.
The resolution specifically asks the president “to issue a proclamation calling upon citizens of all faiths to rediscover and apply the priceless, timeless message of the Holy Scripture which has profoundly influenced and shaped the United States and its great democratic form of government.”
As for the economy, health care, global warming and all the other issues on Congress’ plate?
“While we must focus on fiscal policies that provide relief to families during these tough economic times, an endeavor I have been working tirelessly towards in this Congress, we must also not forget to protect and celebrate our fundamental freedoms that the Bible has influenced,” Broun said.
Broun has gathered 15 co-sponsors, all Republicans, but says he’s looking for more and hopes Democrats will sign on, as well.
“This is not a partisan issue,” he said. “I want it to be bipartisan.”
Whether he’s successful or not — the same measure didn’t go anywhere last year — at least Broun and his fellow supporters can take heart in one fact: They already had a “year of the Bible.”
Ronald Reagan designated 1983 as one, with Congress’ blessing
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.Victoria McGrane Victoria Mcgrane – Fri May 22, 5:40 am ET
When the clock strikes midnight on Dec. 31, 2009, Rep. Paul Broun (R-Ga.) hopes you’ll be ringing in “the Year of the Bible.”
It’s probably just wishful thinking.
Broun’s simple congressional resolution aimed at honoring the Good Book has produced a push-back of biblical proportion in the blogosphere, with critics dismissing it as either unconstitutional or a waste of time. Jews in Congress and atheist activists are dismissing the resolution, while none of the many Democrats in Congress who are Christian have bothered to sign on as co-sponsors.
According to GovTrak.us, the resolution is among the most-blogged-about pieces of legislation, with most posts less than complimentary in nature.
“Does that mean 2009 is not the year of the Bible?” mocked Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), who is Jewish. “What is 2012 the year of? The Quran?”
“That’s an endorsement of religion by the federal government, and we shouldn’t be doing that,” said Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), even though he has introduced his own legislation dealing with religion.
“Republican lawmakers with apparently too much time on their hands and no solutions to offer the country are pushing a resolution that will not address the nation’s problems or advance prosperity or even untangle their previous governing mistakes,” blogged the Progressive Puppy.
Broun rejects the critiques leveled at this effort.
“This doesn’t have anything to do with Christianity,” he said in an interview with POLITICO. Rather, he says, it seeks to recognize that the Bible played an integral role in the building of the United States, including providing the basis for our freedom of religion that allows Muslims, Hindus and even atheists to vocalize their own beliefs.
And even as Nadler criticized Broun, he has done his own share of mixing religion and legislation.
Last year, he introduced a bill that would overturn a federal appeals court ruling — an “idiot” decision, he says — that a condominium board in Chicago had the right to ban Jews from installing mezuzahs, which consist of a piece of parchment inscribed with a specific religious text put inside a case and hung on a door frame.
Condo boards shouldn’t be able to interfere in an individual’s right to practice his or her religion, Nadler said.
But he himself declined to install a mezuzah on his congressional office door when asked by a rabbi, even though he does so at home.
“That’s my religious symbol, and the office does not belong to me; it belongs to the people of the congressional district, and no one should feel uncomfortable walking into the office if it’s not their religion,” Nadler said, describing his feelings on religion and Congress.
“Same thing with the Bible. ... It’s not everybody’s religion. And the federal government should not be imposing religious viewpoints.”
Atheists, who might feel themselves a particular target with the declaration of a biblical year, aren’t even worried about Broun’s effort.
“Right now, we’re seeing atheism on such a rise,” said David Silverman, vice president and national spokesman of American Atheists, a group dedicated to fighting for the civil rights of atheists.
“We are seeing Christianity on such a dramatic decline that we’re not particularly worried about it. We’re thinking that this kind of old-style George W. Bush Republicanism is about to go away,” Silverman said, referring to the latest Pew Forum survey of American religious life, which showed nonreligious Americans as the fastest-growing group.
And it may be the best-selling book of all time, as Broun’s resolution points out, but the Bible isn’t such a popular legislative topic.
A search of Thomas, the online congressional database, for “Bible” yields just one other bill: a resolution to have the “Lincoln-Obama Bible” on permanent display in the Capitol Visitor Center.
The resolution specifically asks the president “to issue a proclamation calling upon citizens of all faiths to rediscover and apply the priceless, timeless message of the Holy Scripture which has profoundly influenced and shaped the United States and its great democratic form of government.”
As for the economy, health care, global warming and all the other issues on Congress’ plate?
“While we must focus on fiscal policies that provide relief to families during these tough economic times, an endeavor I have been working tirelessly towards in this Congress, we must also not forget to protect and celebrate our fundamental freedoms that the Bible has influenced,” Broun said.
Broun has gathered 15 co-sponsors, all Republicans, but says he’s looking for more and hopes Democrats will sign on, as well.
“This is not a partisan issue,” he said. “I want it to be bipartisan.”
Whether he’s successful or not — the same measure didn’t go anywhere last year — at least Broun and his fellow supporters can take heart in one fact: They already had a “year of the Bible.”
Ronald Reagan designated 1983 as one, with Congress’ blessing
Friends United Meeting
www.fum.org
Belize: A Young Man’s Story
by Kathy A. Sawyer
Kathy Sawyer (blue blouse) with students at Friends Boys School in Belize CityAs I stepped off the plane, I knew this was going to be a defi ning moment for me as the new Development Offi cer of Friends United Meeting. I was in Belize City to explore a fi eld site I heard much about but now was going to experience directly. I was going to hear the stories of these young boys, almost young men, who comprised the students at Friends Boys School, Belize. I was to be able to spend quality time with Mike and Kay Cain, co-Directors, and with Miss Candy and Mr. Augustine, the two teachers assisting with the work of the school.
The most surprising and revealing part of my visit was hearing the stories of these boys and of the lives they led which brought them to this school in the fi rst place. I would like to share all these stories with you so that you could understand the diffi culties they face, but I can’t reveal the intimate personal lives of individual students. In its place I have created a short generic story about Pépé that captures some of the stories of their collective lives.
Pépé has grown up in a family where no one has any formal work. He comes from a large family and has three other siblings, one just a baby, the others older. His Dad left them some time ago and in order for the family to generate income, Mom has become something of an entrepreneur. She sells confectionery on the street that she makes in her kitchen the night before. It is not very lucrative but it brings some money into the family. The children all leave early in the morning so that Mom can set up on the street early; the younger family members stay with Grandma while Mom works.
Pépé has not had it easy in school. He was bullied for a long time and his Mom was not able to solve the problem with the school. He was out of class too much as the teachers tried to fi nd something else for him to do to keep him out of harm’s way; there was also the diffi culty the school had in controlling the situation. The consequence was that Pépé became so disillusioned and unhappy with his circumstance that he dropped out.
However, following a visit from a truancy offi cer where Mom heard of this wonderful school called Friends Boys School, Pépé decided to give it a try. To his delight he was accepted! Because Friends Boys School is smaller, he can thrive more easily. Pépé says he has learned far more at Friends Boys School than he did at his other school.
He wants to be a lawyer, completing his college degree in Belize and getting his doctorate in Jamaica. Pépé has not taken his high school entrance test yet, but feels confi dent that with this new start he can make it.
This is a typical, but not actual story. I left Belize with these tales of poverty and distress in the young men’s environment and the hope that the School creates written deeply on my heart.
Belize: A Young Man’s Story
by Kathy A. Sawyer
Kathy Sawyer (blue blouse) with students at Friends Boys School in Belize CityAs I stepped off the plane, I knew this was going to be a defi ning moment for me as the new Development Offi cer of Friends United Meeting. I was in Belize City to explore a fi eld site I heard much about but now was going to experience directly. I was going to hear the stories of these young boys, almost young men, who comprised the students at Friends Boys School, Belize. I was to be able to spend quality time with Mike and Kay Cain, co-Directors, and with Miss Candy and Mr. Augustine, the two teachers assisting with the work of the school.
The most surprising and revealing part of my visit was hearing the stories of these boys and of the lives they led which brought them to this school in the fi rst place. I would like to share all these stories with you so that you could understand the diffi culties they face, but I can’t reveal the intimate personal lives of individual students. In its place I have created a short generic story about Pépé that captures some of the stories of their collective lives.
Pépé has grown up in a family where no one has any formal work. He comes from a large family and has three other siblings, one just a baby, the others older. His Dad left them some time ago and in order for the family to generate income, Mom has become something of an entrepreneur. She sells confectionery on the street that she makes in her kitchen the night before. It is not very lucrative but it brings some money into the family. The children all leave early in the morning so that Mom can set up on the street early; the younger family members stay with Grandma while Mom works.
Pépé has not had it easy in school. He was bullied for a long time and his Mom was not able to solve the problem with the school. He was out of class too much as the teachers tried to fi nd something else for him to do to keep him out of harm’s way; there was also the diffi culty the school had in controlling the situation. The consequence was that Pépé became so disillusioned and unhappy with his circumstance that he dropped out.
However, following a visit from a truancy offi cer where Mom heard of this wonderful school called Friends Boys School, Pépé decided to give it a try. To his delight he was accepted! Because Friends Boys School is smaller, he can thrive more easily. Pépé says he has learned far more at Friends Boys School than he did at his other school.
He wants to be a lawyer, completing his college degree in Belize and getting his doctorate in Jamaica. Pépé has not taken his high school entrance test yet, but feels confi dent that with this new start he can make it.
This is a typical, but not actual story. I left Belize with these tales of poverty and distress in the young men’s environment and the hope that the School creates written deeply on my heart.
Friends United Meeting
www.fum.org
North American Ministries:
Summer Mission Project (VBS)
2009 Project: Bikes for Boys in Belize
Sometimes we take transportation for granted in the United States. If we need to go to the store or to work, we drive or take a city bus. If we need to go to school, Mom drops us off in the car or we take a bus. Once in awhile we walk somewhere, but how often do we depend on our feet to get us everywhere we need to go?
In many countries, transportation is made possible by your own two feet. Anything else is either not available or too expensive for regular use. Belize is a country like that. While it is true there are many cars and even some bus service in Belize, it is also true that the Friends Boys School (FBS) serves a very poor community for whom most transportation is done on foot. Our FBS students sometimes have to walk over two miles to get to school each day.
The 2009 Summer Mission Project is “Bikes for Boys in Belize.” We hope that purchasing bikes for the boys will not only help them get to FBS, but will be a good source of transportation to high school and any future employment they might have. For $150 a student, we can purchase a bike, helmet, chain, padlock, pump and spare parts. Our goal is to raise $6,000 for 40 bikes by the end of August 2009.
The next time you get in your car or on the bus to go somewhere, think about how things might be different if you had to make the same trip on foot. Let’s give the FBS boys a better future this summer.
Pennies for Postage: Thanks to your eagerness to collect “Pennies for Postage” for the 2008 Summer Mission Project, we received $7,288.69. We were able to ship 1,871 pounds of books to Africa, Belize, Jamaica, Ramallah, Mexico and Cuba. Thank you for your pennies! They went a long way.
For more information, contact FUM, ( 765) 962-7573.
North American Ministries:
Summer Mission Project (VBS)
2009 Project: Bikes for Boys in Belize
Sometimes we take transportation for granted in the United States. If we need to go to the store or to work, we drive or take a city bus. If we need to go to school, Mom drops us off in the car or we take a bus. Once in awhile we walk somewhere, but how often do we depend on our feet to get us everywhere we need to go?
In many countries, transportation is made possible by your own two feet. Anything else is either not available or too expensive for regular use. Belize is a country like that. While it is true there are many cars and even some bus service in Belize, it is also true that the Friends Boys School (FBS) serves a very poor community for whom most transportation is done on foot. Our FBS students sometimes have to walk over two miles to get to school each day.
The 2009 Summer Mission Project is “Bikes for Boys in Belize.” We hope that purchasing bikes for the boys will not only help them get to FBS, but will be a good source of transportation to high school and any future employment they might have. For $150 a student, we can purchase a bike, helmet, chain, padlock, pump and spare parts. Our goal is to raise $6,000 for 40 bikes by the end of August 2009.
The next time you get in your car or on the bus to go somewhere, think about how things might be different if you had to make the same trip on foot. Let’s give the FBS boys a better future this summer.
Pennies for Postage: Thanks to your eagerness to collect “Pennies for Postage” for the 2008 Summer Mission Project, we received $7,288.69. We were able to ship 1,871 pounds of books to Africa, Belize, Jamaica, Ramallah, Mexico and Cuba. Thank you for your pennies! They went a long way.
For more information, contact FUM, ( 765) 962-7573.
Friends United Meeting
www.fum.org
Sam and Becky Barber met at Vennard College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, where they married and graduated with degrees in Bible/theology. They also completed degrees in elementary education at William Penn College. In 1996, they were called to return to a struggling Vennard College and stayed until 2008 when Vennard closed its doors. Becky is currently working on a master’s degree in English language learning. These different life experiences will be a significant help to them in their work at Friends Boys School. Sam and Becky have four wonderfully energetic and loving children. Robert was born in 1992, Katie in 1994, Kristy in 1999 and the youngest, Kassie, in 2002.
Sam and Becky Barber met at Vennard College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, where they married and graduated with degrees in Bible/theology. They also completed degrees in elementary education at William Penn College. In 1996, they were called to return to a struggling Vennard College and stayed until 2008 when Vennard closed its doors. Becky is currently working on a master’s degree in English language learning. These different life experiences will be a significant help to them in their work at Friends Boys School. Sam and Becky have four wonderfully energetic and loving children. Robert was born in 1992, Katie in 1994, Kristy in 1999 and the youngest, Kassie, in 2002.
Friends United Meeting
www.fum.org
Global Ministries:
Friends Boys School, Belize
History
Friends United Meeting has been involved in Belize since the early 1960s when Sadie Vernon began a Girls Continuation School and later the Friends Boys School. Mike and Kay Cain continued the work at the boys’ school from 1996 until their retirement in 2008.Friends Boys School Building, Belize City, Belize
Transition
In 2009, Sam and Becky Barber, along with their four children, will take up where Mike and Kay left off. Since nearly 60 percent of Belize’s population is under the age of 19, Sam and Becky are eager to work with the young men in Belize City to provide quality education and life skills, helping these men to be attractive candidates in the work force.
Hopes for Belize
Many of the children in Belize live in single parent homes or with a grandparent. The Barbers hope to influence the boys by modeling a good Christian family, as well as to encourage parental involvement in the school as much as possible. Foremost, the Barbers want students to experience hope, to feel loved and to recognize the possibilities their futures hold. Sam and Becky also want to explore and implement a worship group for Friends. This group will be foundational for continued ministry in Belize. “We want to share with the Belizeans the Light of God and fan it into a flame that burns to follow God’s leading.”
Global Ministries:
Friends Boys School, Belize
History
Friends United Meeting has been involved in Belize since the early 1960s when Sadie Vernon began a Girls Continuation School and later the Friends Boys School. Mike and Kay Cain continued the work at the boys’ school from 1996 until their retirement in 2008.Friends Boys School Building, Belize City, Belize
Transition
In 2009, Sam and Becky Barber, along with their four children, will take up where Mike and Kay left off. Since nearly 60 percent of Belize’s population is under the age of 19, Sam and Becky are eager to work with the young men in Belize City to provide quality education and life skills, helping these men to be attractive candidates in the work force.
Hopes for Belize
Many of the children in Belize live in single parent homes or with a grandparent. The Barbers hope to influence the boys by modeling a good Christian family, as well as to encourage parental involvement in the school as much as possible. Foremost, the Barbers want students to experience hope, to feel loved and to recognize the possibilities their futures hold. Sam and Becky also want to explore and implement a worship group for Friends. This group will be foundational for continued ministry in Belize. “We want to share with the Belizeans the Light of God and fan it into a flame that burns to follow God’s leading.”
More Blogs for you to peruse
http://planet.quaker.org/
If you go to www.quaker.org You will see a link for planet Quaker (address above) and on the right side of that page (under Subscriptions heading) You will see a list of Quaker Blogs! Check it out!
If you go to www.quaker.org You will see a link for planet Quaker (address above) and on the right side of that page (under Subscriptions heading) You will see a list of Quaker Blogs! Check it out!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
ABC's of Friendship
ABC's of Friendship
(A)ccepts you as you are
(B)elieves in "you"
(C)alls you just to say "HI"
(D)oesn't give up on you
(E)nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts)
(F)orgives your mistakes
(G)ives unconditionally
(H)elps you
(I)nvites you over
(J)ust "be" with you
(K)eeps you close at heart
(L)oves you for who you are
(M)akes a difference in your life
(N)ever Judges
(O)ffers support
(P)icks you up
(Q)uiets your fears
(R)aises your spirits
(S)ays nice things about you
(T)ells you the truth when you need to hear it
(U)nderstands you
(V)alues you
(W)alks beside you
(X)-plains things you don't understand
(Y)ells when you won't listen and
(Z)aps you back to reality
(A)ccepts you as you are
(B)elieves in "you"
(C)alls you just to say "HI"
(D)oesn't give up on you
(E)nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts)
(F)orgives your mistakes
(G)ives unconditionally
(H)elps you
(I)nvites you over
(J)ust "be" with you
(K)eeps you close at heart
(L)oves you for who you are
(M)akes a difference in your life
(N)ever Judges
(O)ffers support
(P)icks you up
(Q)uiets your fears
(R)aises your spirits
(S)ays nice things about you
(T)ells you the truth when you need to hear it
(U)nderstands you
(V)alues you
(W)alks beside you
(X)-plains things you don't understand
(Y)ells when you won't listen and
(Z)aps you back to reality
God
God
An article in National Geographic several years ago provided a penetrating picture of God's wings... After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park, forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise. She could have flown to safety but had refused to abandon her babies. When the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast. Because she had been willing to die, those under the cover of her wings would live. "He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thour trust…" (Psalm 91:4)
An article in National Geographic several years ago provided a penetrating picture of God's wings... After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park, forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise. She could have flown to safety but had refused to abandon her babies. When the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast. Because she had been willing to die, those under the cover of her wings would live. "He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thour trust…" (Psalm 91:4)
Beth Moore~Weekly Word Devotions
http://www.lproof.org/Devotions/2007/AWorkerUnashamed.html
A Worker Unashamed
Scripture Reading: Exodus 31:1-11; 36:1-7
Today’s Treasure: “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field’” (Matthew 9:37-38).
Exodus 36:1-7 tells about two very important contractors, Bezalel and Oholiab. God picked them by nonnegotiable and perfect design as His servants to furnish His dwelling place. Of the tens of thousands of able-bodied men in Israel, God chose Bezalel and filled him with His Spirit for this divinely unusual task. Exodus 31:2-5 says, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.” Although we cannot know with certainty the reason for God’s choice, we can surmise that Bezalel was chosen because of his availability to God and his obedience.
Did you know that prior to the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on only a handful of persons? Of God’s chosen leaders, we read only of Moses, Joshua, Othniel, Gideon, Jephthah, Samson, Saul, and David being touched by the Holy Spirit’s presence. Of His prophets the 70 elders of Israel had the Spirit of God on them, as well as Balaam, a few messengers of Saul, Amasa, Azariah, Zechariah, Isaiah, and Ezekiel. These were members of an elite group! Fewer still were the number in which the Holy Spirit chose to remain. Prior to Acts 2 the Holy Spirit came and went as God pleased, falling on His subjects for a temporary task.
In the list of those important few who were filled by the Spirit, Bezalel was the only one who was not a leader or a prophet. He was a wage earner—a blue collar worker. Yet he is the only one in Old Testament history to be filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit to construct a building by a heavenly pattern!
Several life applications can be drawn by Bezalel’s experience. First, he was God’s laborer. You and I are not leaders, kings, and prophets over God’s chosen Israel. We are laborers just like Bezalel. First Corinthians 3:9 tells us we are God’s fellow workers. Names were very important to the Hebrew people, often expressing character and destiny. The name Bezalel means in the shadow of God. He was not taking a power hike or craving recognition. He was happy to dwell in the shadow of the Almighty. God’s name was enough for him. He considered it a privilege just to work on God’s team. God wants willing laborers!
Second, Bezalel’s job was out of his league. If he had already possessed everything he needed for the task, God would not have bothered to empower him with His Holy Spirit. God is far too practical for that! He purposely assigned Bezalel a task beyond his capability so that He could fill him with His power.
God has rarely given me an assignment that I considered to be in my league. Anything of priority in the Kingdom is out of our league. When we serve in our church, we must never forget that we are dealing with people’s lives—their internal struggles and eternal destinies. Sincerity and sweat do not always suffice. God places us in positions beyond our capabilities so that we will be at His absolute mercy, realizing that only He can succeed.
Third, Bezalel worked well under authority. Notice in Exodus 36:1-7 that Bezalel not only worked well under God’s instruction but also submitted himself to the earthly authority God had designated—Moses. Authority is an important issue to God and one we struggle with deeply. We may not mind being under God’s authority at times, but we often resist human authorities God places over us. Remember, God is sovereign. If you are where God has placed you—whether at home, on the job, or at church—He has established the authority over you to work His glory in you. And while He expects us to submit to our authorities, He also empowers us for the difficult task.
Lord, I want to be the kind of laborer You can use. One who is happy to work in Your shadow and be on Your team. One who works well under authority. One who doesn’t shrink back from working out of his or her league, knowing that You will equip me with Your power and that all glory goes to You. I thank You for the Holy Spirit who dwells in me today through the work of Christ. Use my life, Lord. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Adapted from A Woman’s Heart, God’s Dwelling Place, by Beth Moore, pages 62-65. Nashville: LifeWay Press, 2007. Used by permission.
A Worker Unashamed
Scripture Reading: Exodus 31:1-11; 36:1-7
Today’s Treasure: “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field’” (Matthew 9:37-38).
Exodus 36:1-7 tells about two very important contractors, Bezalel and Oholiab. God picked them by nonnegotiable and perfect design as His servants to furnish His dwelling place. Of the tens of thousands of able-bodied men in Israel, God chose Bezalel and filled him with His Spirit for this divinely unusual task. Exodus 31:2-5 says, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.” Although we cannot know with certainty the reason for God’s choice, we can surmise that Bezalel was chosen because of his availability to God and his obedience.
Did you know that prior to the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on only a handful of persons? Of God’s chosen leaders, we read only of Moses, Joshua, Othniel, Gideon, Jephthah, Samson, Saul, and David being touched by the Holy Spirit’s presence. Of His prophets the 70 elders of Israel had the Spirit of God on them, as well as Balaam, a few messengers of Saul, Amasa, Azariah, Zechariah, Isaiah, and Ezekiel. These were members of an elite group! Fewer still were the number in which the Holy Spirit chose to remain. Prior to Acts 2 the Holy Spirit came and went as God pleased, falling on His subjects for a temporary task.
In the list of those important few who were filled by the Spirit, Bezalel was the only one who was not a leader or a prophet. He was a wage earner—a blue collar worker. Yet he is the only one in Old Testament history to be filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit to construct a building by a heavenly pattern!
Several life applications can be drawn by Bezalel’s experience. First, he was God’s laborer. You and I are not leaders, kings, and prophets over God’s chosen Israel. We are laborers just like Bezalel. First Corinthians 3:9 tells us we are God’s fellow workers. Names were very important to the Hebrew people, often expressing character and destiny. The name Bezalel means in the shadow of God. He was not taking a power hike or craving recognition. He was happy to dwell in the shadow of the Almighty. God’s name was enough for him. He considered it a privilege just to work on God’s team. God wants willing laborers!
Second, Bezalel’s job was out of his league. If he had already possessed everything he needed for the task, God would not have bothered to empower him with His Holy Spirit. God is far too practical for that! He purposely assigned Bezalel a task beyond his capability so that He could fill him with His power.
God has rarely given me an assignment that I considered to be in my league. Anything of priority in the Kingdom is out of our league. When we serve in our church, we must never forget that we are dealing with people’s lives—their internal struggles and eternal destinies. Sincerity and sweat do not always suffice. God places us in positions beyond our capabilities so that we will be at His absolute mercy, realizing that only He can succeed.
Third, Bezalel worked well under authority. Notice in Exodus 36:1-7 that Bezalel not only worked well under God’s instruction but also submitted himself to the earthly authority God had designated—Moses. Authority is an important issue to God and one we struggle with deeply. We may not mind being under God’s authority at times, but we often resist human authorities God places over us. Remember, God is sovereign. If you are where God has placed you—whether at home, on the job, or at church—He has established the authority over you to work His glory in you. And while He expects us to submit to our authorities, He also empowers us for the difficult task.
Lord, I want to be the kind of laborer You can use. One who is happy to work in Your shadow and be on Your team. One who works well under authority. One who doesn’t shrink back from working out of his or her league, knowing that You will equip me with Your power and that all glory goes to You. I thank You for the Holy Spirit who dwells in me today through the work of Christ. Use my life, Lord. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Adapted from A Woman’s Heart, God’s Dwelling Place, by Beth Moore, pages 62-65. Nashville: LifeWay Press, 2007. Used by permission.
Why it's important
So, bouncing ideas around like this is so good for Me personally because I do have a lot of spiritual energy. And so that means when I think about God and I'm alone and I have questions or doubts sometimes if I have no one to talk to they just sit there and I feel stagnant, spiritually. I don't want to always worship God alone. I want to be able to share this experience, this journey. Speaking to a friend about how I approach God and hearing other peoples views is so encouraging to me! My fellow Christians bolster my faith continuously! I am so thankful for that.
As I read comments on the previous postings about my thoughts on chatter (things that stand in the way of your spiritual walk)its interesting how each person reads and interprates my thoughts and words. Maybe I am not a good blogger. I have no intentions of questioning or telling others how to walk with God. Everyone has a different path, journey and direction. We identify with God on different levels.
I express my passion with regards to how much he deserves from me. My point is take time to cherish him, give him the glory. Life can get in our way and we can focus on other things. To enjoy his sweet spirit to the depths of my soul more than I have allowed it too.
I have a long journey with my history with God. It would take to long to share it all. But I can say this is the first time in my journey that I have felt so burdened to give him his due honor. To allow him to be apart of my soul and to be open for his will. For the first time I am accepting Gods love. And accepting love from others has never been easy for me. So in return I am eager to honor him.
I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
I express my passion with regards to how much he deserves from me. My point is take time to cherish him, give him the glory. Life can get in our way and we can focus on other things. To enjoy his sweet spirit to the depths of my soul more than I have allowed it too.
I have a long journey with my history with God. It would take to long to share it all. But I can say this is the first time in my journey that I have felt so burdened to give him his due honor. To allow him to be apart of my soul and to be open for his will. For the first time I am accepting Gods love. And accepting love from others has never been easy for me. So in return I am eager to honor him.
I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
Lively Discussion
I just want to say that I am loving this blog! And also, I think that at first I didn't really understand fully what Heather was trying to say and was a little defensive but after reading this second posting about "chatter" I can see that maybe she is talking about giving, really giving God a chance to move mountains in our lives and our Church. We are poised to move our little church into a bigger church. We will need a strong foundation to build from. Many have come before us with this same mission. Let's all pray that we are spiritually strong and ready to do Christ's work in this world!The people that built this church certainly prayed for it's future. So we are working under their prayers as well. It is big and it's beautiful and it's mighty. Bob's sermon last Sunday was about the holiness of our Father. It's hard sometimes to balance a familiar, daily relationship with Jesus whom you speak with when you are driving or doing dishes and a quiet prayer time that lasts longer and is deeper and more sacred and then the time you spend in church with your brothers and sisters. It can be overwhelming and confusing sometimes but it's so worth it to find your way through.
Bible Study
Hello Friends! We had a wonderful evening at Tim and Heather's for the Wednesday night Bible Study. We finished up with the Gospel of John and Will tells us we are going to go into Romans for next week. He is doing such a great job leading us in this study. We are thinking of naming this group - one suggestion was "potluck Bible Study" since, of course, there is FOOD! We missed Squeak and Betty being with us last evening along with Mike and Kelly. Hope they can come next week. If the weather permits, we will have it at our house next week and plan to have it on our deck and just maybe we will have the grill going! Hope you can all come for this wonderful time of fellowship, study, and good food! Heather passed out a list of questions and we were to fill out the answers. One of the questions was "What is Bob's favorite saying?" Of course, most got the right answer - "Is there going to be food????" Guess I have a reputation! Just love to eat! Just wait until I get my new teeth!!!!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Here is the Email address for Quaker Haven Camp
http://quakerhaven.com/
It looks like we need to move quickly on this to get the early bird rates which are about $50 dollars less! (by May 25th.)You can print out registration forms from the website.
It looks like we need to move quickly on this to get the early bird rates which are about $50 dollars less! (by May 25th.)You can print out registration forms from the website.
Quaker Haven
Just wanted to let you all know that we are planning an outing to go to Quaker Haven Camp on Saturday, May 30th. We will meet at the Church parking lot and follow from there. This is a wonderful opportunity to show parents and children what our camp facilities are all about. We might even stop for breakfast on the way! Should prove to be a wonderful day! I hope we can have a nice group to travel that day. Let me (Bob) know if you would like to go so we can get all the transportation lined up.
Bob
Bob
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Grace
If we had a certain limit as to how much grace that we may receive, I think everyone would definitely run out. Our Lord is ever merciful. His mercy and His grace is more than sufficient. Everyday we drift from him, but He catches us and puts us right where He wants us.
Even though we may sin from time to time, He still loves His children.
http://www.qhpress.org/quakerpages/qwhp/weems4.htm
ROM CHAPTER IV OF THE LIFE OF WILLIAM PENN BY M.L. ("PARSON") WEEMS.
M.L. Weems.
[Weems, M.L., The Life of William Penn, Settler of Pennsylvania, etc. Philadelphia: Uriah Hunt and Son, 1854.]
This document is on The Quaker Writings Home Page.
CHAPTER IV.
William, a fine, plump, fleshy boy, five or six years old, standing at his mother's knees, waiting for her to talk with him; while she, after pressing him to her bosom, thus, in a sprightly voice, addresses him- "Well, William, I want to see if you can answer mother one great question."
"Well, mother," replied William, his eyes sparkling, "come tell me what it is."
"Well, William," said she, "can you tell mother who made you?"
"Yes, to be sure, mother, that I can, easy enough. God did make me, didn't he"?
"How do you know that, my son ?"
"Heigh, mother, didn't you tell me so a matter of a hundred times and more?"
"But suppose. William, I had not told you that God made you, do you think you could have found it out?
Here William paused --at length replied, "indeed, mother I don't know."
"Why not, my son, it seems very easy."
"Well then, mother, come tell me."
"Well now, my son, you see that stone that lies there at your feet, don't you?"
"Yes, mother, to be sure I do. And what of that stone, mother?"
"That stone is something, isn't it my son?
"Yes, to be sure, it is something."
"But how do you know it is something, William?"
"Heigh, mother, don't I see it; and don't I feel it that it is something; and a mighty hard and big and heavy something too." - --Here good reader, let us pause and note how soon the divine light of reason darts on the minds of children! What master of the mathematics could give a better definition of matter, or as the text has it, of something, than little William here does "Don't I see it, mother," says he; don't I feel it that it is something, and a mighty hard and big and heavy something too !
"Well, but, William, continued his mother how came it to be this something?"
"Indeed, mother, I don't know."
"Well, but does it not strike you, my son, that since it is something, it must have been made so, or, it must have made itself so?" William paused, as if quite at a loss, but at length said: "I don't see, mother, how it could have made itself."
"Why not, my son ?"
"What, this stone made itself!" replied he, like one suddenly struck, as at the idea of something quite absurd and ridiculous; "this stone made itself! why, dear
(missing page)
men in the world, as I said just now, could not make one grain of sand, then O how could I make such a beautiful little boy like you?"
"And so don't you know any thing, mother, how I came to be made?"
"No indeed, my son, no more than that stone there. When I married your dear father, I did not know any better than that stone, whether I was to have you or not. Or whether you were to be a little boy or not; or whether you were to have fine black eyes or not. I make you, indeed, William! when I cannot make even "one hair of your head white or black." And O how could I have made so fearful and wonderful a frame as yours, when even now that it is made, it is all a perfect mystery to me. See! I plac e my hand upon my son's heart, and I feel it beating against my fingers; but still I know nothing about how it beats. I put my hand upon his sweet bosom, and feel it heaving as he breathes, but still I am ignorant of it all. And when I look at him every morning, as he breakfasts on his little basin of milk and bread, Oh I'm lost! I'm lost ! I'm lost!"
"Heigh, for what, mother?" cried William, surprised. Why for wonder how his milk and bread, white as snow, should be turned into blood red as crimson; and how that blood soft as milk should be turned, some into sweet little teeth, white and hard as ivory ; and some into soft flowing hair like silk; some into sweet polished cheeks like rose buds; and some into bright shining eyes like diamonds! "Could I have made you, William, after this wonderful manner? Oh no my son, no--not all the men on earth, nor al l the angels in heaven, could have done it. No, none but the great God could have made you.
As good Mrs. Penn uttered these words, which she did with great emphasis, William appeared lost in thought; however, after some silence, and with a deep sigh, he looked up to his mother, and thus went on with his questions again.
"Well, mother, what did God make me for?"
"Why, for his goodness' sake, my son, which loved you so, he wanted to make you happy."
"How I know, mother, that God loves me so; I did never do any thing for him?"
"Well, son, and what did you ever do for me, and yet I have always loved you very dearly, haven't I?"
"Yes, mother, but I always see you; but I did never see God."
"True William, nor did you ever see your grand-father Pennwood; but still you know that he loved you, don't you?"
"Yes, mother, that I do know, that grandfather Pennwood loves me, for he is always sending me such pretty things. He sent me, you know, mother, my pretty tame rabbits, and my pretty little horse, and a great many other pretty things."
"Well then my son, if God gives you a great many more pretty things than grandfather Pennwood ever did, won't you say that he loves you too?"
"Yes, that I will, mother."
"Done! 'tis a bargain, William. And now, my son, brighten up your thoughts and tell your mother who gives you everything. Who gave you these beautiful eyes? Who gave you these sweet rosy cheeks ? Who gave you this lovely forehead ? Who gave you these dea r ivory teeth? And these nimble little feet for you to run about, and these pretty fingers to handle everything? And who gave you all the sweet apples, and pears, and cherries, for you to eat? And the birds to sing, and the bees to make honey-comb for yo u ? And this beautiful earth with all the sweet flowers, and corn, and trees ? And then who gave you these bright heavens away up yonder, and the sun, the moon, and the stars, all, all to shine so bright for you--O my dear dear son, did grandfather Pennwood ever give you any thing like all this?
Here, Willam, his bosom labouring as with sighs of wonder, replied, "0 mother, did God give me all these things?"
"O yes, to be sure, William, all these things; and ten thousand thousand times more than you can ever count."
"Well then, mother, God must love me very much indeed, to give me all these things. But mother, what does God want from me that he gives me so many beautififi things?"
"Why, William, all that he wants of you, my son, is that you should love him very much."
"Well but, mother, what good will that do to God though I should love him very much; I am only a little boy, I can't reach up to the skies to give him any thing?"
"True, William, but still God wants you to love him very much; not that you may give him any thing, but that he may give you a great deal more."
"How, mother?"
"Why, son, because he knows that if you love him very much, you will be sure to be a good boy."
"How so, mother?"
Why, my son, don't you know that if you love any body very much, it will be sweet to you to do what will please them."
"Yes, mother, that is sweet. And don't I always run to do what will please you ? When you told me just now to run down into the garden to bring you up some roses, didn't I set off and run away, like my -little buck that grand--pa' Pennwood gave me?"
"Yes, that's what my son did run like a little buck, I could hardly see his feet, he did run so fast. And when he came back, O how beautiful did he look? Not all the roses in the garden could blush like his cheeks - not all the morning sloes could shine like his eyes-- - ...
(missing page)
...at length he said to her, "But, mother, is praising God, all that is to make me good?"
"O no, my son, there's another blessed thing you must do-- - you must not only praise God for all the great things he has done for you, but you must also every day pray to him that he will give you a continual sense of this; so that you may feel such gratitude and love for him as always to do what you know will please him. And from constantly doing this, my dear son, you will feel such a joy and sweetness in your heart as will make you love everybody. And then, William, you will be sure ne ver to do them any harm - --you will never tell stories upon them - --never take any thing from them - never quarrel nor fight with them, but will always do them good as God is always doing you good."
"Well, mother," replied William, looking at her with great tenderness, "and will God love me then, and be always good to me like you?"
"0 yes, my dear child, that he will love you like me; and ten thousand thousand times better. And then, though father and mother die and leave you, yet God will never die and leave you, but will be with you all your days long, to bless you in every thing . And when the time comes for you to die, he will send his Great Angels to bring you to himself in his own glorious heaven, where you will see all the millions of beautiful angels. And there perhaps, my son, you may see me, your mother - but, I hope, not as now, pale, and sickly, and often shedding tears for you --but ten thousand times beyond what I could ever deserve; even like one of his own angels, the first to embrace and welcome you to that happy place."
As the Parent Eagle calling her young to his native skies, when she sees the breaking forth of the sun over all his golden clouds, thus did this tender mother improve the precious hours of the nursery to sow the seeds of religion in the soul of her son. The reader will see in due season that this, her labour of love, was not in vain. The seed fell on good ground. The dews of heaven came down; and the happy mother lived to feast on fruits, the riches that God can bestow on a parent this side of eternity, the sweet fruits of a dear child's virtues.
M.L. Weems.
[Weems, M.L., The Life of William Penn, Settler of Pennsylvania, etc. Philadelphia: Uriah Hunt and Son, 1854.]
This document is on The Quaker Writings Home Page.
CHAPTER IV.
William, a fine, plump, fleshy boy, five or six years old, standing at his mother's knees, waiting for her to talk with him; while she, after pressing him to her bosom, thus, in a sprightly voice, addresses him- "Well, William, I want to see if you can answer mother one great question."
"Well, mother," replied William, his eyes sparkling, "come tell me what it is."
"Well, William," said she, "can you tell mother who made you?"
"Yes, to be sure, mother, that I can, easy enough. God did make me, didn't he"?
"How do you know that, my son ?"
"Heigh, mother, didn't you tell me so a matter of a hundred times and more?"
"But suppose. William, I had not told you that God made you, do you think you could have found it out?
Here William paused --at length replied, "indeed, mother I don't know."
"Why not, my son, it seems very easy."
"Well then, mother, come tell me."
"Well now, my son, you see that stone that lies there at your feet, don't you?"
"Yes, mother, to be sure I do. And what of that stone, mother?"
"That stone is something, isn't it my son?
"Yes, to be sure, it is something."
"But how do you know it is something, William?"
"Heigh, mother, don't I see it; and don't I feel it that it is something; and a mighty hard and big and heavy something too." - --Here good reader, let us pause and note how soon the divine light of reason darts on the minds of children! What master of the mathematics could give a better definition of matter, or as the text has it, of something, than little William here does "Don't I see it, mother," says he; don't I feel it that it is something, and a mighty hard and big and heavy something too !
"Well, but, William, continued his mother how came it to be this something?"
"Indeed, mother, I don't know."
"Well, but does it not strike you, my son, that since it is something, it must have been made so, or, it must have made itself so?" William paused, as if quite at a loss, but at length said: "I don't see, mother, how it could have made itself."
"Why not, my son ?"
"What, this stone made itself!" replied he, like one suddenly struck, as at the idea of something quite absurd and ridiculous; "this stone made itself! why, dear
(missing page)
men in the world, as I said just now, could not make one grain of sand, then O how could I make such a beautiful little boy like you?"
"And so don't you know any thing, mother, how I came to be made?"
"No indeed, my son, no more than that stone there. When I married your dear father, I did not know any better than that stone, whether I was to have you or not. Or whether you were to be a little boy or not; or whether you were to have fine black eyes or not. I make you, indeed, William! when I cannot make even "one hair of your head white or black." And O how could I have made so fearful and wonderful a frame as yours, when even now that it is made, it is all a perfect mystery to me. See! I plac e my hand upon my son's heart, and I feel it beating against my fingers; but still I know nothing about how it beats. I put my hand upon his sweet bosom, and feel it heaving as he breathes, but still I am ignorant of it all. And when I look at him every morning, as he breakfasts on his little basin of milk and bread, Oh I'm lost! I'm lost ! I'm lost!"
"Heigh, for what, mother?" cried William, surprised. Why for wonder how his milk and bread, white as snow, should be turned into blood red as crimson; and how that blood soft as milk should be turned, some into sweet little teeth, white and hard as ivory ; and some into soft flowing hair like silk; some into sweet polished cheeks like rose buds; and some into bright shining eyes like diamonds! "Could I have made you, William, after this wonderful manner? Oh no my son, no--not all the men on earth, nor al l the angels in heaven, could have done it. No, none but the great God could have made you.
As good Mrs. Penn uttered these words, which she did with great emphasis, William appeared lost in thought; however, after some silence, and with a deep sigh, he looked up to his mother, and thus went on with his questions again.
"Well, mother, what did God make me for?"
"Why, for his goodness' sake, my son, which loved you so, he wanted to make you happy."
"How I know, mother, that God loves me so; I did never do any thing for him?"
"Well, son, and what did you ever do for me, and yet I have always loved you very dearly, haven't I?"
"Yes, mother, but I always see you; but I did never see God."
"True William, nor did you ever see your grand-father Pennwood; but still you know that he loved you, don't you?"
"Yes, mother, that I do know, that grandfather Pennwood loves me, for he is always sending me such pretty things. He sent me, you know, mother, my pretty tame rabbits, and my pretty little horse, and a great many other pretty things."
"Well then my son, if God gives you a great many more pretty things than grandfather Pennwood ever did, won't you say that he loves you too?"
"Yes, that I will, mother."
"Done! 'tis a bargain, William. And now, my son, brighten up your thoughts and tell your mother who gives you everything. Who gave you these beautiful eyes? Who gave you these sweet rosy cheeks ? Who gave you this lovely forehead ? Who gave you these dea r ivory teeth? And these nimble little feet for you to run about, and these pretty fingers to handle everything? And who gave you all the sweet apples, and pears, and cherries, for you to eat? And the birds to sing, and the bees to make honey-comb for yo u ? And this beautiful earth with all the sweet flowers, and corn, and trees ? And then who gave you these bright heavens away up yonder, and the sun, the moon, and the stars, all, all to shine so bright for you--O my dear dear son, did grandfather Pennwood ever give you any thing like all this?
Here, Willam, his bosom labouring as with sighs of wonder, replied, "0 mother, did God give me all these things?"
"O yes, to be sure, William, all these things; and ten thousand thousand times more than you can ever count."
"Well then, mother, God must love me very much indeed, to give me all these things. But mother, what does God want from me that he gives me so many beautififi things?"
"Why, William, all that he wants of you, my son, is that you should love him very much."
"Well but, mother, what good will that do to God though I should love him very much; I am only a little boy, I can't reach up to the skies to give him any thing?"
"True, William, but still God wants you to love him very much; not that you may give him any thing, but that he may give you a great deal more."
"How, mother?"
"Why, son, because he knows that if you love him very much, you will be sure to be a good boy."
"How so, mother?"
Why, my son, don't you know that if you love any body very much, it will be sweet to you to do what will please them."
"Yes, mother, that is sweet. And don't I always run to do what will please you ? When you told me just now to run down into the garden to bring you up some roses, didn't I set off and run away, like my -little buck that grand--pa' Pennwood gave me?"
"Yes, that's what my son did run like a little buck, I could hardly see his feet, he did run so fast. And when he came back, O how beautiful did he look? Not all the roses in the garden could blush like his cheeks - not all the morning sloes could shine like his eyes-- - ...
(missing page)
...at length he said to her, "But, mother, is praising God, all that is to make me good?"
"O no, my son, there's another blessed thing you must do-- - you must not only praise God for all the great things he has done for you, but you must also every day pray to him that he will give you a continual sense of this; so that you may feel such gratitude and love for him as always to do what you know will please him. And from constantly doing this, my dear son, you will feel such a joy and sweetness in your heart as will make you love everybody. And then, William, you will be sure ne ver to do them any harm - --you will never tell stories upon them - --never take any thing from them - never quarrel nor fight with them, but will always do them good as God is always doing you good."
"Well, mother," replied William, looking at her with great tenderness, "and will God love me then, and be always good to me like you?"
"0 yes, my dear child, that he will love you like me; and ten thousand thousand times better. And then, though father and mother die and leave you, yet God will never die and leave you, but will be with you all your days long, to bless you in every thing . And when the time comes for you to die, he will send his Great Angels to bring you to himself in his own glorious heaven, where you will see all the millions of beautiful angels. And there perhaps, my son, you may see me, your mother - but, I hope, not as now, pale, and sickly, and often shedding tears for you --but ten thousand times beyond what I could ever deserve; even like one of his own angels, the first to embrace and welcome you to that happy place."
As the Parent Eagle calling her young to his native skies, when she sees the breaking forth of the sun over all his golden clouds, thus did this tender mother improve the precious hours of the nursery to sow the seeds of religion in the soul of her son. The reader will see in due season that this, her labour of love, was not in vain. The seed fell on good ground. The dews of heaven came down; and the happy mother lived to feast on fruits, the riches that God can bestow on a parent this side of eternity, the sweet fruits of a dear child's virtues.
Praise
Titus 3:4-6
3. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
6. Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
3. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
6. Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
Noblesville Farmers Market to open Saturday
The Noblesville Farmers Market takes place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. rain or shine. For more information call (317) 776-0206.
Angels' Attic
Rollin' With The Angels
Motorcycle Ride
105 E. Main Street, Arcadia , IN 317-984-5256
Angels Attic is a Faith Based organization serving God by fulfilling the needs of others.
Saturday June 13, 2009
to pre-register go to:
www.arcadiachristian.net
100% of proceeds go to Angels' Attic
Motorcycle Ride
105 E. Main Street, Arcadia , IN 317-984-5256
Angels Attic is a Faith Based organization serving God by fulfilling the needs of others.
Saturday June 13, 2009
to pre-register go to:
www.arcadiachristian.net
100% of proceeds go to Angels' Attic
Bible Study-tomorrow night
Wednesday night at 6:30 is Bible Study at Tim and Heather's house! Lets All go!
Meeting Tonight-Christian Education
Just to remind everyone, We are having a meeting tonight at church at 6:30 for the Christian Education committee.
Galatians 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Beth Moore
http://www.lproof.org/Devotions/2007/MoreofHisSpirit.html
More of His Spirit
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 2
Today’s Treasure: “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13).
You and I need nothing on this earth like more of the Holy Spirit. Do we need to love an unlovely person? Do we need extra patience? Could we use a little peace in the midst of chaos? Do we need to show an extra measure of kindness? Could anyone stand a little more faithfulness to God? Could anyone use a strong does of self-discipline? How about a heaping soulful of joy? Take a look at Galatians 5:22-23. They all come with the fullness of the Holy Spirit! You see, we don’t just need more patience. We need more of the Holy Spirit filling us and anointing us!
Now before anybody starts writing me letters, let me go on to explain. I realize the Holy Spirit is a person. When He comes into a believer’s life at salvation, He moves in personally. We believers have the Spirit, but the infinite Spirit of God continues to pour Himself into our lives. Any given day I may enjoy a greater portion of His Spirit from on high.
Does anyone need deep insight from God’s Word? An added measure of understanding? Anyone need the eyes of her heart enlightened to know the hope of her calling? Does anyone want to fulfill God’s eternal purposes for her life and think with the mind of Christ instead of the misleading mind of mortal flesh? All of these come with “more” of the Holy Spirit! (See 1 Corinthians 2.)
Child of God, don’t just absorb this truth! Get up and celebrate it! God gives His Spirit without measure! He has all that you need. Or more properly stated, He is that all you need. Our fulfillment and greatest joy are in the flooding of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives. He is how we understand God’s Word and will for our lives!
Here’s a good one: Could anyone use a sharper memory? Beloved, I could! Take a look at John 14:26. “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send you in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
The Holy Spirit is the blessed Reminder. Have you ever noticed we have a very sharp memory about destructive things, but a far duller memory over instructive things? We need more of the Holy Spirit! Recently I had to memorize lines for a Christmas pageant at our church. I had never done anything like that, and I was a nervous wreck. Because I knew John 14:26, instead of just asking God to help me with my lines, I asked Him to fill me with more of His Holy Spirit so the blessed Reminder would manifest Himself to me—and He did! He is your key to memorizing Scripture or retaining anything biblical. Take Him up on it!
What do you need most from the Holy Spirit? Are you actively praying for more of Him toward that end? Luke 11:13 implies that if we want the Holy Spirit to invade more and more of our lives, God wants us to ask Him for it!
Holy Spirit, I do need more of you in my life. Please invade every part of me with ever-increasing measure. Energize my speech, thought patterns, and actions. Please show me where I’m quenching Your Spirit and hindering Your work. Remind me to pray for more and more of You. In the holy name of Jesus, Amen.
Adapted from The Beloved Disciple, by Beth Moore, pages 163-164. Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 2003. Used by permission.
More of His Spirit
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 2
Today’s Treasure: “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13).
You and I need nothing on this earth like more of the Holy Spirit. Do we need to love an unlovely person? Do we need extra patience? Could we use a little peace in the midst of chaos? Do we need to show an extra measure of kindness? Could anyone stand a little more faithfulness to God? Could anyone use a strong does of self-discipline? How about a heaping soulful of joy? Take a look at Galatians 5:22-23. They all come with the fullness of the Holy Spirit! You see, we don’t just need more patience. We need more of the Holy Spirit filling us and anointing us!
Now before anybody starts writing me letters, let me go on to explain. I realize the Holy Spirit is a person. When He comes into a believer’s life at salvation, He moves in personally. We believers have the Spirit, but the infinite Spirit of God continues to pour Himself into our lives. Any given day I may enjoy a greater portion of His Spirit from on high.
Does anyone need deep insight from God’s Word? An added measure of understanding? Anyone need the eyes of her heart enlightened to know the hope of her calling? Does anyone want to fulfill God’s eternal purposes for her life and think with the mind of Christ instead of the misleading mind of mortal flesh? All of these come with “more” of the Holy Spirit! (See 1 Corinthians 2.)
Child of God, don’t just absorb this truth! Get up and celebrate it! God gives His Spirit without measure! He has all that you need. Or more properly stated, He is that all you need. Our fulfillment and greatest joy are in the flooding of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives. He is how we understand God’s Word and will for our lives!
Here’s a good one: Could anyone use a sharper memory? Beloved, I could! Take a look at John 14:26. “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send you in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
The Holy Spirit is the blessed Reminder. Have you ever noticed we have a very sharp memory about destructive things, but a far duller memory over instructive things? We need more of the Holy Spirit! Recently I had to memorize lines for a Christmas pageant at our church. I had never done anything like that, and I was a nervous wreck. Because I knew John 14:26, instead of just asking God to help me with my lines, I asked Him to fill me with more of His Holy Spirit so the blessed Reminder would manifest Himself to me—and He did! He is your key to memorizing Scripture or retaining anything biblical. Take Him up on it!
What do you need most from the Holy Spirit? Are you actively praying for more of Him toward that end? Luke 11:13 implies that if we want the Holy Spirit to invade more and more of our lives, God wants us to ask Him for it!
Holy Spirit, I do need more of you in my life. Please invade every part of me with ever-increasing measure. Energize my speech, thought patterns, and actions. Please show me where I’m quenching Your Spirit and hindering Your work. Remind me to pray for more and more of You. In the holy name of Jesus, Amen.
Adapted from The Beloved Disciple, by Beth Moore, pages 163-164. Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 2003. Used by permission.
Kahlil Gibran Quotes
Faith is a knowledge within the heart, beyond the reach of proof.
Faith is an oasis in the heart which will never be reached by the caravan of thinking.
Faith is an oasis in the heart which will never be reached by the caravan of thinking.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Pictures
Wow! Thanks for posting those pictures Kelly! They are beautiful (except the old man with the little boy! Ha!) The scenery makes our place of worship look so peaceful! Love it!
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