What a day I had yesterday! After leaving Pittsburg State University where I was interviewing teacher candidates I started my long drive to Wichita for teacher interview day today.
The wind was terrible but the tornado was even worse. Outside of Independence I saw the twister that hit that city as well as was in the path of the terrible storm. It was the worst driving conditions I have ever been in. It rained about 4 inches in about 15 minutes.
After finally driving out of it, I went to a rest area on top of a hill off highway 400 and saw a beautiful rainbow on the back side of the storm.
I appreciated that sight, believe me!
When I got to Wichita, all of the east side was without electricity because of the storm they had earlier in the day. Ever try checking into a motel that has no electricity? No computers, door lock key cards, on-line reservations……and the best part, the young man at the front desk was working his first night by himself. Felt sorry for that young guy! Also right outside my motel the grass was on fire from a downed power pole. It was certainly an interesting day.
But God, thank you for the rainbow and the protection you gave me and several across Kansas yesterday. I’m looking forward to a quieter weekend!
Friday, March 31, 2006
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Christian Colleges?
I am proud to be a graduate of one of our Christian Colleges. When I graduated from York College I felt like I received an excellent Christian education, as well as was mentored by some outstanding faculty and staff during my years at York. I was so impressed with York that I returned as a teacher and coach for two additional years and still support the school in several ways.
I have supported Christian education and will continue to encourage our young people to look at what our Christian Universities can offer for them academically as well as in ministry opportunities.
Lately I have become concerned with the direction and decisions being made at some of our sister institutions.
As an educator, I know we need to allow our students room for growth and accessibility of differing views and opinions but we must uphold the values and Biblical principles that our institutions were built upon.
We, as Christians, need to take an active part in making sure that our Christian Colleges and Universities not take the easy road of worldly thought and philosophy in trying to “make everyone feel good and happy”. Sometimes university and college presidents need not look at the dollar or who is going to donate as the deciding factor but look at God’s Word as the final answer.
It is sad that 95% of members of the Church have no idea what is being taught on our Christian University campuses. Who is teaching courses, and what is allowing to be introduced to our students? Some of our Christian universities have gone away from the traditions that they were founded upon and have become more or less state university schools.
If you are a graduate of one of our Christian colleges or you are examining which school your child or grandchild might attend, I encourage you to examine and question the administrators of our universities and make sure they are still using God’s Word as the measuring device for their institution.
I have supported Christian education and will continue to encourage our young people to look at what our Christian Universities can offer for them academically as well as in ministry opportunities.
Lately I have become concerned with the direction and decisions being made at some of our sister institutions.
As an educator, I know we need to allow our students room for growth and accessibility of differing views and opinions but we must uphold the values and Biblical principles that our institutions were built upon.
We, as Christians, need to take an active part in making sure that our Christian Colleges and Universities not take the easy road of worldly thought and philosophy in trying to “make everyone feel good and happy”. Sometimes university and college presidents need not look at the dollar or who is going to donate as the deciding factor but look at God’s Word as the final answer.
It is sad that 95% of members of the Church have no idea what is being taught on our Christian University campuses. Who is teaching courses, and what is allowing to be introduced to our students? Some of our Christian universities have gone away from the traditions that they were founded upon and have become more or less state university schools.
If you are a graduate of one of our Christian colleges or you are examining which school your child or grandchild might attend, I encourage you to examine and question the administrators of our universities and make sure they are still using God’s Word as the measuring device for their institution.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Spring Break
Spring Break should of been called Winter Break. Snow and cool weather ocurred all over the mid-west this past week. Craig had a great time in New York City visiting Jeff and Santhi. Thanks guys for giving the grand tour to our little boy!
Deb and I traveled to St. Louis to look over summer golf and biking opportunities.
On Thursday of last week, we left St. Louis and drove into Illinois. We drove along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. We decided to take a couple of ferry boats to cross the rivers around an area that looked like the rolling hills of the Smokey Mountains. Beautiful place.
Wherever it might be, New York City, St. Louis, the countryside of Western Illinois, Julian, California - you see God in the wonderful creation and in the people you encounter.
When I sing the Days of Creation with the 2-3 year olds on Wednesday nights, it means a liitle more to me after experiencing the beautiful aspects of Gods handiwork.
Deb and I traveled to St. Louis to look over summer golf and biking opportunities.
On Thursday of last week, we left St. Louis and drove into Illinois. We drove along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. We decided to take a couple of ferry boats to cross the rivers around an area that looked like the rolling hills of the Smokey Mountains. Beautiful place.
Wherever it might be, New York City, St. Louis, the countryside of Western Illinois, Julian, California - you see God in the wonderful creation and in the people you encounter.
When I sing the Days of Creation with the 2-3 year olds on Wednesday nights, it means a liitle more to me after experiencing the beautiful aspects of Gods handiwork.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Sweet Aroma
One of my favorite places to visit is a small town named Julian in the mountains east of San Diego, California.
When I was a kid, mom and dad would take us to the mountains during the winter for hot apple cider, great food and a chance to play in the snow (today I hate snow).
There are many things I remember about our trips to Julian but the thing that stands out the most was the smell. Every time we stopped at that old country store for the hot apple cider I loved the smell of that old wood burning stove. The smell was great. The heat felt great, but it was the smell that has always stuck with me.
In 1 Corinthians 2:15, “we are to God the aroma of Christ”. We are to be that sweet aroma in our praise to our Heavenly Father. The sacrifice that we bring to God in our worship should be a sweet, sweet fragrance.
Sweet adoration
Flows from your children
Glory and honor
And praise are a part of our constant devotion
Love set in motion
For the divine One
Who reigns in our hearts.
When I was a kid, mom and dad would take us to the mountains during the winter for hot apple cider, great food and a chance to play in the snow (today I hate snow).
There are many things I remember about our trips to Julian but the thing that stands out the most was the smell. Every time we stopped at that old country store for the hot apple cider I loved the smell of that old wood burning stove. The smell was great. The heat felt great, but it was the smell that has always stuck with me.
In 1 Corinthians 2:15, “we are to God the aroma of Christ”. We are to be that sweet aroma in our praise to our Heavenly Father. The sacrifice that we bring to God in our worship should be a sweet, sweet fragrance.
Sweet adoration
Flows from your children
Glory and honor
And praise are a part of our constant devotion
Love set in motion
For the divine One
Who reigns in our hearts.
Monday, March 27, 2006
The Love of God
During our evening worship Mike led us in a beautiful old hymn that I still love to sing today, The Love of God.
The song was written by Frederick M. Lehman. He wrote this song in 1917 in Pasadena, California, and it was published in Songs That Are Different, Volume 2, 1919. The lyrics are based on the Jewish poem Haddamut, written in Aramaic in 1050 by Meir Ben Isaac Nehorai, a cantor in Worms, Germany; they have been translated into at least 18 languages. His daughter arranged the song.
THE LOVE OF GOD
Words & music: F. M. Lehmen, 1917; arr: Claudia L. Mays
The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled,
And pardoned from his sin.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
When years of time shall pass away,
And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall,
When men, who here refuse to pray,
On rocks and hills and mountains call,
God's love so sure, shall still endure,
All measureless and strong;
Redeeming grace to Adam's race;
The saints' and angels' song.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
The song was written by Frederick M. Lehman. He wrote this song in 1917 in Pasadena, California, and it was published in Songs That Are Different, Volume 2, 1919. The lyrics are based on the Jewish poem Haddamut, written in Aramaic in 1050 by Meir Ben Isaac Nehorai, a cantor in Worms, Germany; they have been translated into at least 18 languages. His daughter arranged the song.
THE LOVE OF GOD
Words & music: F. M. Lehmen, 1917; arr: Claudia L. Mays
The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled,
And pardoned from his sin.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
When years of time shall pass away,
And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall,
When men, who here refuse to pray,
On rocks and hills and mountains call,
God's love so sure, shall still endure,
All measureless and strong;
Redeeming grace to Adam's race;
The saints' and angels' song.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.
O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints' and angels' song.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Be Still And Know That I Am God
Ever long for quiet solitude? The best vacation our family ever had was a week at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, about 8 years ago. For an entire 5 days I layed out on the sandy beach and did absolutely nothing. Just listened to God’s wonderful creation as my eyes were shut and the sun shining down. How relaxing. We need times of quiet. Times of peace. Times of renewal.
This week its renewal time. Spring Break. Debbie and I are heading to a special place to witness and enjoy God's Creation. After placing Craig on an airplane to New York City to see Santhi and Jeff we head for a short period of peace and renewal.
“How shall we really hear, O Lord? So many foolish things to fill our ear...Lead us to prayerful quiet...Cover us in a precious silence...Let solitude come and be our companion...Give us a stillness as the desert where You spent, sometimes, the whole night in prayer...let us come, even without images if that is possible for us...let us revel in the quietude...Let us bow down with all the angels in silence and in awe..."How majestic is Thy name in all creation."
In Jesus Name,
Amen.
(Prayer from Don Brennon)
This week its renewal time. Spring Break. Debbie and I are heading to a special place to witness and enjoy God's Creation. After placing Craig on an airplane to New York City to see Santhi and Jeff we head for a short period of peace and renewal.
“How shall we really hear, O Lord? So many foolish things to fill our ear...Lead us to prayerful quiet...Cover us in a precious silence...Let solitude come and be our companion...Give us a stillness as the desert where You spent, sometimes, the whole night in prayer...let us come, even without images if that is possible for us...let us revel in the quietude...Let us bow down with all the angels in silence and in awe..."How majestic is Thy name in all creation."
In Jesus Name,
Amen.
(Prayer from Don Brennon)
Monday, March 20, 2006
What's Your Legacy?
This is a story that was written by one of Deb’s students last week. It brought tears to both of us. This was re-printed with the students permission:
My father was about 5’11” he was a larger guy. My father was born in 1959, both of my dad’s parents were Native American, so that made him 100% Indian. My grandfather was, I think, 100% Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa Indian from South Dakota. My father, was one of eleven children. My father, was always told if you are not home on time to eat, you will not eat. My dad was always telling me about when he was younger and what he and his friends would do for fun. I remember when my dad and I went outside at night and he showed me how an eclipse was made.
My dad was one of the best role models I have ever had because he was always there for my mom, sister and me. My father was always willing to give his time to anyone so that they could have fun and feel good, like there was someone out there that was there for them when they needed a friend. He was always working so that my sister and I could have all the things that he didn’t have when he was a kid. My father spent a little bit of his time at the movies, but he favored talking to my sister and I about the Bible.
My father’s mother died when I was almost too young to remember. The only thing I can remember about my grandmother is that she died of cancer when I think I was about five years old, as for my grandfather he died when I was about seven. My father was always volunteering at the school where my sister and I were enrolled, and he also participated in the P.T.A. (Parent Teacher Association) at our school. My father was always trying to find time to help others. I remember one time, my mother told me that my dad had gotten two tickets because he was out in the road telling people that there were cops around the curve and they are giving tickets out to people who were trying to pass on the median because there was a stalled car on the side of the road. He got two tickets because he passed on the median, and the second ticket was for being out in the road and trying to warn people about cops.
My father, was always reading the Bible and watching movies in his free time. My father was always preaching to anyone and everyone who would listen to him. I remember he would always go out walking at later hours of the day with his Bible in his hand, he found this homeless younger man and preached to him constantly about the Lord. This young man would come over to talk to my dad and listen to my father preach to him and he would listen to every word of it. My father was very kind to everyone he came in contact with in his lifetime. One of the most valuable things I got, from the best role model I have ever had, was at the time the stupidest thing I had ever received, it was a dictionary. My father laughed when I had opened it up and said that this would be the most valuable thing I ever give you.
My father was home from work and I had been home from the bike track that my friend and I had gone to that day. Mother was in her room folding clothes and my sister and I were washing the dishes after we had eaten. My sister and I were arguing about something, I can’t remember what it was, but my dad yelled at my sister and I, and then my father left to go to the mall and pay some bills. It was early the next morning when my three uncles were in the front room and told me to sit down in the chair next to them. When I sat down, they told me that my father had been murdered in the bathroom stall at the mall.
This story happens to be all that is left of my best role model that I ever had.
My father was about 5’11” he was a larger guy. My father was born in 1959, both of my dad’s parents were Native American, so that made him 100% Indian. My grandfather was, I think, 100% Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa Indian from South Dakota. My father, was one of eleven children. My father, was always told if you are not home on time to eat, you will not eat. My dad was always telling me about when he was younger and what he and his friends would do for fun. I remember when my dad and I went outside at night and he showed me how an eclipse was made.
My dad was one of the best role models I have ever had because he was always there for my mom, sister and me. My father was always willing to give his time to anyone so that they could have fun and feel good, like there was someone out there that was there for them when they needed a friend. He was always working so that my sister and I could have all the things that he didn’t have when he was a kid. My father spent a little bit of his time at the movies, but he favored talking to my sister and I about the Bible.
My father’s mother died when I was almost too young to remember. The only thing I can remember about my grandmother is that she died of cancer when I think I was about five years old, as for my grandfather he died when I was about seven. My father was always volunteering at the school where my sister and I were enrolled, and he also participated in the P.T.A. (Parent Teacher Association) at our school. My father was always trying to find time to help others. I remember one time, my mother told me that my dad had gotten two tickets because he was out in the road telling people that there were cops around the curve and they are giving tickets out to people who were trying to pass on the median because there was a stalled car on the side of the road. He got two tickets because he passed on the median, and the second ticket was for being out in the road and trying to warn people about cops.
My father, was always reading the Bible and watching movies in his free time. My father was always preaching to anyone and everyone who would listen to him. I remember he would always go out walking at later hours of the day with his Bible in his hand, he found this homeless younger man and preached to him constantly about the Lord. This young man would come over to talk to my dad and listen to my father preach to him and he would listen to every word of it. My father was very kind to everyone he came in contact with in his lifetime. One of the most valuable things I got, from the best role model I have ever had, was at the time the stupidest thing I had ever received, it was a dictionary. My father laughed when I had opened it up and said that this would be the most valuable thing I ever give you.
My father was home from work and I had been home from the bike track that my friend and I had gone to that day. Mother was in her room folding clothes and my sister and I were washing the dishes after we had eaten. My sister and I were arguing about something, I can’t remember what it was, but my dad yelled at my sister and I, and then my father left to go to the mall and pay some bills. It was early the next morning when my three uncles were in the front room and told me to sit down in the chair next to them. When I sat down, they told me that my father had been murdered in the bathroom stall at the mall.
This story happens to be all that is left of my best role model that I ever had.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Sunday Worship
Order of Worship
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Announcements/Welcome
Scripture: Psalm 100
103 He Has Made Me Glad
96 I Stand in Awe
60 He is Exalted
Prayer
Scripture: John 3:14-17
454 Rock of Ages (VERSE 1 ONLY)
129 Amazing Grace (VERSE 1 ONLY)
325 Boundless Love (REFRAIN ONLY 1 and 3)
332 Lead Me to Calvary (VERSE 1 ONLY)
Communion
Contribution
2x2 Class Dismissed
Scripture: John 13:12-17
694 Make Me A Servant
693 Give Me the Heart of A Servant
694 Make Me A Servant
Message: Evan Burdan
Invitation: 792 My Eyes Are Dry (SING TWICE)
Announcements
Closing Song: That’s Why We Praise Him
Closing Prayer
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Announcements/Welcome
Scripture: Psalm 100
103 He Has Made Me Glad
96 I Stand in Awe
60 He is Exalted
Prayer
Scripture: John 3:14-17
454 Rock of Ages (VERSE 1 ONLY)
129 Amazing Grace (VERSE 1 ONLY)
325 Boundless Love (REFRAIN ONLY 1 and 3)
332 Lead Me to Calvary (VERSE 1 ONLY)
Communion
Contribution
2x2 Class Dismissed
Scripture: John 13:12-17
694 Make Me A Servant
693 Give Me the Heart of A Servant
694 Make Me A Servant
Message: Evan Burdan
Invitation: 792 My Eyes Are Dry (SING TWICE)
Announcements
Closing Song: That’s Why We Praise Him
Closing Prayer
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Rats, Running and the Church
In the latest addition of Healthday News, it discusses how many runners contended that jogging alone offers the opportunity to enjoy nature or appreciate an urban landscape, while giving the brain and the body a beneficial workout.
But new research with rats suggests that running solo might not offer the perceived benefits and, in fact, may actually be bad for runners when combined with social isolation.
The scientists behind the study report that mice forced to live and run by themselves have less brain cell growth than those that get to run with other rats. The implications for humans aren't clear. That’s good, because I have been doing this for years!
But the interesting point to this study is the fact that in rats they show brain growth when they get to run with other rats. Rat companionship!
Humans need companionship also. As a church we grow when we work together and look out for the needs of each other.
Any organization, with a lot of individuals that don’t come together as a team or unit, won’t grow, win or prosper.
I am so thankful that I belong to a body of believers that long for companionship and the concept of working together to further Christ mission.
But new research with rats suggests that running solo might not offer the perceived benefits and, in fact, may actually be bad for runners when combined with social isolation.
The scientists behind the study report that mice forced to live and run by themselves have less brain cell growth than those that get to run with other rats. The implications for humans aren't clear. That’s good, because I have been doing this for years!
But the interesting point to this study is the fact that in rats they show brain growth when they get to run with other rats. Rat companionship!
Humans need companionship also. As a church we grow when we work together and look out for the needs of each other.
Any organization, with a lot of individuals that don’t come together as a team or unit, won’t grow, win or prosper.
I am so thankful that I belong to a body of believers that long for companionship and the concept of working together to further Christ mission.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Work Ethic
I am on a "soap box" when it comes to our young people and the education system. The educational system in Kansas has changed drastically during the past ten years. More accountability, more rigorous academic standards, and now, with No Child Left Behind, increased accountability at the national level.
One of the exit outcomes of our school system is a simple outcome but one that I feel has been lost by the new generation. Work ethic.
Work ethic is a set of values based on the moral virtues of hard work and diligence. A work ethic may include being reliable, having initiative or maintaining social skills.
Talking about work ethic is easy, actually putting it into practice is difficult.
Growing up I had some great examples of individuals that had a positive work ethic. My dad and my grandfather were extremely hardworking individuals. Working was expected. Working hard and long hours was expected.
Today, I am witnessing young people who expect a great paying job, but not having to do much on the job. I see those without initiative. I see those being fired because they are continually late to work. I see poor social and people skills. What has happened?
It's easy today to quit. Easy to say "I don't have to do it." We live in a "Burger King" society. Have it your way! My way is right, so don't tell me what to do.
The dropout rate is increasing. Marriages are deteriorating. Divorce is at an all-time high. Churches are losing members. What has happened?
I believe we will see a real change in the schools, society and even in the church when moms and dads realize what's truly important in life.
It's not about me. It's about my example to my kids, my spouse, my boss and my co-workers. Its doing more than expected at work. It's doing more for your spouse than whats expected. It's sacrificing for your family so maybe debt doesn't destroy a marriage. It's volunteering at church to help a family or individual who is in need.
Work ethic must be practiced. We must have an appreciation for hard work. We must have an appreciation for the jobs and opportunities that God has blessed us with. We must respect authority and be sensitive to those that we work with.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
One of the exit outcomes of our school system is a simple outcome but one that I feel has been lost by the new generation. Work ethic.
Work ethic is a set of values based on the moral virtues of hard work and diligence. A work ethic may include being reliable, having initiative or maintaining social skills.
Talking about work ethic is easy, actually putting it into practice is difficult.
Growing up I had some great examples of individuals that had a positive work ethic. My dad and my grandfather were extremely hardworking individuals. Working was expected. Working hard and long hours was expected.
Today, I am witnessing young people who expect a great paying job, but not having to do much on the job. I see those without initiative. I see those being fired because they are continually late to work. I see poor social and people skills. What has happened?
It's easy today to quit. Easy to say "I don't have to do it." We live in a "Burger King" society. Have it your way! My way is right, so don't tell me what to do.
The dropout rate is increasing. Marriages are deteriorating. Divorce is at an all-time high. Churches are losing members. What has happened?
I believe we will see a real change in the schools, society and even in the church when moms and dads realize what's truly important in life.
It's not about me. It's about my example to my kids, my spouse, my boss and my co-workers. Its doing more than expected at work. It's doing more for your spouse than whats expected. It's sacrificing for your family so maybe debt doesn't destroy a marriage. It's volunteering at church to help a family or individual who is in need.
Work ethic must be practiced. We must have an appreciation for hard work. We must have an appreciation for the jobs and opportunities that God has blessed us with. We must respect authority and be sensitive to those that we work with.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
The Heart of Worship
More songs are being written today about what worship needs to be all about, God not ME!
The Heart of Worship
By Matt Redman
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm coming back to the heart of worship,
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,It's all about You, Jesus
The Heart of Worship
By Matt Redman
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm coming back to the heart of worship,
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,It's all about You, Jesus
Monday, March 13, 2006
The Father's Love
In my graduate studies several years ago, I remember a case study that I still think about as an educator today.
In the 1940's, the psychologist, Rene Spitz, studied human babies isolated from their mothers. These were the infants of women too poor to care for their children, infants who had been placed permanently in a foundling home. There, the children were kept in what Spitz called "solitary confinement," placed in cribs with sheets hung from the sides so that the only thing the babies could see was the ceiling. Nurses seldom looked in on them more than a few times a day. And even when feeding time came, the babies were left alone with just the companionship of a bottle. Hygiene in the homes was impeccable. But without being held, loved, and woven into the fabric of a social web, the resistance of these babies was lowered. 34 out of 91 died. In other foundling homes, the death rate was even higher. In some, it climbed to a devastating 90%. A host of other studies have shown the same thing. Babies can be given food, shelter, warmth and hygiene. But if they are not held and stroked, they have an abnormal tendency to die.
How about us?
We were the same way. Helpless, no chance of survival until God gave us a second chance for life.
Because of that special gift, He holds us; He shelters us; He cares for us; He provides everything for us.
How sad many don’t accept this gift.
In the 1940's, the psychologist, Rene Spitz, studied human babies isolated from their mothers. These were the infants of women too poor to care for their children, infants who had been placed permanently in a foundling home. There, the children were kept in what Spitz called "solitary confinement," placed in cribs with sheets hung from the sides so that the only thing the babies could see was the ceiling. Nurses seldom looked in on them more than a few times a day. And even when feeding time came, the babies were left alone with just the companionship of a bottle. Hygiene in the homes was impeccable. But without being held, loved, and woven into the fabric of a social web, the resistance of these babies was lowered. 34 out of 91 died. In other foundling homes, the death rate was even higher. In some, it climbed to a devastating 90%. A host of other studies have shown the same thing. Babies can be given food, shelter, warmth and hygiene. But if they are not held and stroked, they have an abnormal tendency to die.
How about us?
We were the same way. Helpless, no chance of survival until God gave us a second chance for life.
Because of that special gift, He holds us; He shelters us; He cares for us; He provides everything for us.
How sad many don’t accept this gift.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Deep Calls to Deep
In 2001, Dr. Randy Gill (one of my favorite song writers in the Church of Christ) wrote a song that has become one of my favorite Lament’s from the Psalms. The song is called “Deep Calls to Deep”.
From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Lord, can you hear me?
Have mercy, O God
From the depths of my soul I cry out
In the midst of the sea I cry out
In the midst of the sea I cry out
Save me the water
Is over my head
In the midst of the sea I cry out
There is a time to mourn
There is a time to weep
There is a time for sorrow
When deep calls to deep
In the moments of grief I cry out
In the moments of grief I cry out
Have you forgotten me?
Where are you Lord?
In the moments of grief I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Still I will praise You, Lord
Still I will praise You, Lord.
The words from “Deep Calls to Deep” (Psalm 42) are ones that can be sung by anyone of us at almost any period of our lives. Even though life is rough at times, I will still praise my Lord! These words give me hope and comfort from time to time.
From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Lord, can you hear me?
Have mercy, O God
From the depths of my soul I cry out
In the midst of the sea I cry out
In the midst of the sea I cry out
Save me the water
Is over my head
In the midst of the sea I cry out
There is a time to mourn
There is a time to weep
There is a time for sorrow
When deep calls to deep
In the moments of grief I cry out
In the moments of grief I cry out
Have you forgotten me?
Where are you Lord?
In the moments of grief I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
From the depths of my soul I cry out
Still I will praise You, Lord
Still I will praise You, Lord.
The words from “Deep Calls to Deep” (Psalm 42) are ones that can be sung by anyone of us at almost any period of our lives. Even though life is rough at times, I will still praise my Lord! These words give me hope and comfort from time to time.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
March Madness
March Madness is about to begin.
I don’t have much of an opportunity to watch TV because of evening meetings and activities but I really enjoy a Saturday during March watching the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
Selection Sunday is coming up on March 12. 5:00 p.m. CST. Fans, Teams and Coaches will be glued to the TV to hear if their team makes the NCAA field of 64. It will be a day of joy for some, and for others and it will be a day of heartbreak for many schools that have had good years but will be left out of the tournament.
The NCAA Basketball Tournament is a billion dollar venture.
Many people fill out those brackets trying to guess who might make the Final 4 and then who will become the National Champion.
Some get so engrossed into it, they gamble life savings and bet on the contests. Many people lose everything they have because they feel they know who is going to be crowned National Champion.
Our country really does get wrapped up in this sporting event.
March Madness is great if we keep it in perspective. But there is something that is even greater to long for than a basketball tournament.
“O for A Home With God, A Place in His Courts to Rest”. I love that song. I love the lyrics. I love the God who blessed us so greatly by sending His Son to the earth so we could live with Him in forever. To me that is better than any sporting event, any vacation spot, any new car, new house, new job. A relationship and an eternal home with God should be our number one goal as a Christian.
1 John 2:15-17
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever"
We need to press toward the goal that we should have in life:
Phil. 3:12-14
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus"
I don’t have much of an opportunity to watch TV because of evening meetings and activities but I really enjoy a Saturday during March watching the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
Selection Sunday is coming up on March 12. 5:00 p.m. CST. Fans, Teams and Coaches will be glued to the TV to hear if their team makes the NCAA field of 64. It will be a day of joy for some, and for others and it will be a day of heartbreak for many schools that have had good years but will be left out of the tournament.
The NCAA Basketball Tournament is a billion dollar venture.
Many people fill out those brackets trying to guess who might make the Final 4 and then who will become the National Champion.
Some get so engrossed into it, they gamble life savings and bet on the contests. Many people lose everything they have because they feel they know who is going to be crowned National Champion.
Our country really does get wrapped up in this sporting event.
March Madness is great if we keep it in perspective. But there is something that is even greater to long for than a basketball tournament.
“O for A Home With God, A Place in His Courts to Rest”. I love that song. I love the lyrics. I love the God who blessed us so greatly by sending His Son to the earth so we could live with Him in forever. To me that is better than any sporting event, any vacation spot, any new car, new house, new job. A relationship and an eternal home with God should be our number one goal as a Christian.
1 John 2:15-17
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever"
We need to press toward the goal that we should have in life:
Phil. 3:12-14
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus"
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Famous Last Words
There are many great curtain call lines, fade-outs, and final words of dialogue in movie history - the last lingering words heard before the title “The End.” In quite a few cases, the memorable final lines are also some of the greatest lines in film history. They often reveal a vital truth about the film, cap off a comedy with a punchline, or help to define what the film was all about in just a few words. The last phrases or words often help to set a mood or tone as the film concludes, or they can be great one-liners.
One of my favorites came from the “Shawshank Redemption” in 1994:
“I find I am so excited I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it's the excitement only a free man can feel, a free man at the start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain. I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.”
The final words of the film, describes “Red’s” hope and excitement about finally reaching that destination that he longed for.
Every time I hear that line I think about my final destination. The excitement, the hope that I have.
One of my favorites came from the “Shawshank Redemption” in 1994:
“I find I am so excited I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it's the excitement only a free man can feel, a free man at the start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain. I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.”
The final words of the film, describes “Red’s” hope and excitement about finally reaching that destination that he longed for.
Every time I hear that line I think about my final destination. The excitement, the hope that I have.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Testify To Love
Ever have a song on your mind and it just wouldn’t go away. I have been thinking about the lyrics to Testify To Love recently. A great reminder of our vast responsibility that we have.
Testify To Love
by Avalon
All the colors of the rainbow
All the voices of the wind
Every dream that reaches out
That reaches out to find where love begins
Every word of every story
Every star in every sky
Every corner of creation lives to testify
(Chorus)
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love
I’ll be a witness in the silences when words are not enough
With every breath I take
I will give thanks to God above
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love
From the mountains to the valleys
From the rivers to the sea
Every hand that reaches out
Every hand that reaches out to offer peace
Every simple act of mercy
Every step to kingdom come
All the hope in every heart will speak what love has done
Testify To Love
by Avalon
All the colors of the rainbow
All the voices of the wind
Every dream that reaches out
That reaches out to find where love begins
Every word of every story
Every star in every sky
Every corner of creation lives to testify
(Chorus)
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love
I’ll be a witness in the silences when words are not enough
With every breath I take
I will give thanks to God above
For as long as I shall live
I will testify to love
From the mountains to the valleys
From the rivers to the sea
Every hand that reaches out
Every hand that reaches out to offer peace
Every simple act of mercy
Every step to kingdom come
All the hope in every heart will speak what love has done
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Spring Sing
I am updating my blog at Oklahoma Christian University this morning. Here for Spring Sing 2006. Great to see Brian as well as the other Central college students.
Be in prayer for Evan as he begins our series on Deacons tomorrow morning.
Also be in prayer for our Senior Minister Search Committee as they begin the interview process.
What a great blessing to have so many committed members at Central. We are truely blessed to have a unified congregation who loves and cares for each other.
Be in prayer for Evan as he begins our series on Deacons tomorrow morning.
Also be in prayer for our Senior Minister Search Committee as they begin the interview process.
What a great blessing to have so many committed members at Central. We are truely blessed to have a unified congregation who loves and cares for each other.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
A Body That Prays Together
Each Wednesday evening I get to share a special time sitting around a large brown conference table with five of the most Godly men that I have ever met. These men are the first to tell you they have faults, inadequacies, and don’t have all the answers to problems that constantly arise, but they do know the One that is perfect, holy and has all the answers of life.
The time we spend praying for the Central Family is time that I cherish each time we get together. These men pour their hearts out to the Father over those who are sick, frustrated, troubled and are spiritually lost. Many times we don’t know what to say on some occasions but our Father understands and provides the right words to help us as leaders as we ask Him for guidance and wisdom as we shepherd the flock.
The Central Family is a body that believes in prayer. In times of trouble and in times of joy, we constantly need to be on our knees to our Father praising Him for all that He has done and will do for his people on the corner of Huntoon and College.
Thank you for your constant prayers and support as we serve you and serve our Father!
The time we spend praying for the Central Family is time that I cherish each time we get together. These men pour their hearts out to the Father over those who are sick, frustrated, troubled and are spiritually lost. Many times we don’t know what to say on some occasions but our Father understands and provides the right words to help us as leaders as we ask Him for guidance and wisdom as we shepherd the flock.
The Central Family is a body that believes in prayer. In times of trouble and in times of joy, we constantly need to be on our knees to our Father praising Him for all that He has done and will do for his people on the corner of Huntoon and College.
Thank you for your constant prayers and support as we serve you and serve our Father!
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Deacons
The Central Church of Christ has been blessed with many willing members that wish to serve in a variety of ways. New ministries have taken place during the past couple of years such as MOPS, Monday for the Master and WINGS. These ministries along with several others at Central have blessed many lives.
Because of the increasing demands on needing additional ministries and the need to serve others Central will begin the process of seeking additional Deacons to serve the congregation.
Beginning on Sunday, March 5, Evan Burdan will begin a three week series on the ministry of a Deacon.
The word deacon comes from a Greek word meaning "servant." We find the first deacons being chosen because of a specific need in Acts 6. The needs and circumstances of a given situation in the New Testament church determined when deacons were appointed and how many were required. The deacons had authority only as they were assigned to be over some specific business.
The Bible has clearly instructed early Christians (and us) about the qualifications for men who serve in the office of deacon (Acts 6:3, I Tim. 3:8-13):
Good reputation
Full of the Holy Spirit
Full of wisdom
Reverent (serious)
Not double-tongued
Not addicted to wine
Not greedy for money
Hold faith with pure conscience
Found blameless
One wife (who is reverent, temperate, faithful, and not a slanderer)
Manages his own family well
Please be in prayer as we begin to look at the needs of the Central Church and those men willing to serve in a variety of ways.
Because of the increasing demands on needing additional ministries and the need to serve others Central will begin the process of seeking additional Deacons to serve the congregation.
Beginning on Sunday, March 5, Evan Burdan will begin a three week series on the ministry of a Deacon.
The word deacon comes from a Greek word meaning "servant." We find the first deacons being chosen because of a specific need in Acts 6. The needs and circumstances of a given situation in the New Testament church determined when deacons were appointed and how many were required. The deacons had authority only as they were assigned to be over some specific business.
The Bible has clearly instructed early Christians (and us) about the qualifications for men who serve in the office of deacon (Acts 6:3, I Tim. 3:8-13):
Good reputation
Full of the Holy Spirit
Full of wisdom
Reverent (serious)
Not double-tongued
Not addicted to wine
Not greedy for money
Hold faith with pure conscience
Found blameless
One wife (who is reverent, temperate, faithful, and not a slanderer)
Manages his own family well
Please be in prayer as we begin to look at the needs of the Central Church and those men willing to serve in a variety of ways.
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