Relevant Revelation

A Non-Janus January

2011-12-30T17:29:00.000-05:00

It's the New Year once again! A time of celebration, commemoration and hopefully, consecration. The New Year brings a sense of promise and renewal like no other time. We should do our very best to make sure that we are moving forward with every year. It would certainly be a shame to get older and not better.

January. The first month of the year is named after the false god Janus. He was considered to be the god of beginnings, endings, doorways and entrances. He is depicted as having two faces looking in opposite directions.

This is the problem. January, the first month of a new year, a time of renewed determination and clear intent, deserves singular focus not divided attention. We do not need to have a two-faced approach to the New Year.

This is not a call for extremity. Looking back is necessary and helpful in making wise decisions. This is an emphasis issue. You cannot be so focused on the past that you are divided in your attention over the future. That's why the rearview mirror of a car is so small in comparison to the windshield. Whether last year was filled with tragedies or treasures, you can't make good forward progress with a backwards positioning.

Jesus says, "No man having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom." Luke 9:62.

James says, "A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways." James 1:8

Paul says, "... forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things before, I press towards the mark for the prize..." Phil. 3:12

What do you say?

Celebrate a new beginning. Blow the horns and spin the noisemakers. Throw confetti and eat some black-eyed peas. But after the party is over and the dust settles, face forward and get serious about 2012. And don't wait for February!!

Kim Jong-il's Leadership No-no

2011-12-21T00:45:00.000-05:00

The death of Kim Jong-il caused a ripple of anxiety throughout the arena of world politics. Actually, Kim has always been a source of concern for enemies and allies alike. Wielding absolute power, cruel ambition and maniacal tendencies, Kim has often snubbed his nose at the world stage, in a parade of quickly marching armies. Now with his death and his son, Kim Jong-un's succession, anxiety over North Korea's political posture has grown.

While it is beyond my scope of experience and preparation to give clear insight into the multiplicity of political ramifications of these events, I do see a clear lesson in leadership - The effects of non-transparency.

North Korea is called the 'Hermit Kingdom' because of its detachment from the rest of the world. It is easily presumed that this is done for control purposes. Keeping a people ignorant makes it easier to keep them controlled. So when international visitors come in, and I stress when, their phones are confiscated and photos censored. Media is told what to see and when they can see it.

This came to mind when they released the footage of people weeping for their deceased leader. It was too perfect. Too controlled. One person was weeping inconsolably while the others were otherwise engaged in the background. It just seems staged, insincere.

That may be judgmental, but that's exactly what happens with non-transparency - distrust. That's a leadership lesson. While you don't have to put top-secret files on display, you certainly don't have to confiscate phones and pictures. It makes people wonder what are you hiding?

A leader's currency is trust. People will trust you in accordance with how they know you. Yes, limitations are necessary but balance is essential. Talk to people. Allow pictures. Open up your life. Be transparent.

Jesus thought this way - "I'm no longer calling you servants because servants don't understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I've named you friends because I've let you in on everything I've heard from the Father." - (John 15:15 Msg.)

Elevating Excellence

2011-12-16T10:10:00.000-05:00

Incompetence strikes again. So much pain and sorrow in the world is due to people not doing their jobs with attention to detail. Our condolences go out to the family of Suzanne Hart, a 41 year old executive, crushed and torn by a malfunctioning elevator. At first glance this traumatic scene seems to be a freak accident, but a closer look sees something more - human error. "City Buildings Department records show that the 13 elevators operating at 285 Madison Avenue have piled up an astonishing 56 violations between them since 1999, 34 of which were for "failure to maintain elevators." http://uk.ibtimes.com/articles/267910/20111215/285-madison-avenue-suzanne-hart-elevator-accident.htm

Poor workmanship is a blight on our society. From mishandled luggage, to messed up orders and misdiagnosed treatments - mistakes and missteps abound. Whatever happened to workmanship? Personal best? Do we not know that how we work says something about who we are? "Ooops" or "My bad!" just doesn't cut it. In this case it cost someone their life.

Excellence is the thing. Sure it is harder, more tedious, more engaging and involved, but it's excellence! It is the best. It says that I do what I do to the highest point of my ability. What else should we say? For the child of God there should be no alternative.

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Col. 3:17)

"Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people." (Pr. 22:29)

Yes every one makes mistakes ,but that should be contrary to one's character not the consistency of one's character. Excellence does not mean perfection, it means that one is striving for perfection, determined to hit the mark. A reputation is made when you have a consistent focus on detail or whether you seem like you could care less.

The world is filled with Careless Incompetents. A child of God must not be one.

The Nazareth

2011-12-12T13:08:00.000-05:00

John 1:46

Can anything good or just
Can one faithful and true
One we trust
Come out of Nazareth?

Nazareth
The low parts of Palestine
A ghetto of Galilee on Beulah’s backside
Unmentionable, unintentional
Most forgettable and avoidable
Nazareth.

No King had risen
No Prophet resided
In this hamlet of dusty farmers
Muddy potters, lowly shepherds
And occasional carpenters.

No wonder one would wonder
Stumbling at the word
That honor had risen with power
From the poor and quiet folk
Of Nazareth.

It’s this muddied thinking of our mannish minds
That often blinds us
And binds us
To handicapped reasons
And asinine assumptions
That great people only come from great situations.

And so we miss it
And dismiss it
Looking for God in the light on the left
We fail to see His hand on the right in the dark
Forgetting that He often grows lilies of the valley
In ghetto alleys and slum cities
Like Nazareth

But there rose one like a bright sun.
God’s Son.
Breaking the darkness like a cloudless dawn
Divinity in flesh came the Nazareth
His likeness unmistakably, undeniably God.

A carpenter’s son cutting hearts of men
Fashioning faith from foolish failure
The Creator and Orchestrator
He built a church on the strength of His name
And now fame is known
By Nazareth.

Now the ghettos sing glory
As they follow the grand story
Of the Nazareth
Who fought death
Rising from the hood and the grave
Overcoming poverty, obscurity and iniquity
Reigning at the right of absolute majesty.

The lowly shudder in the throes of hope’s dope
The forgotten remember their redeemer who delivered them
From Ghetthoic grieving
Seeing and believing that troubles are not binding
No concrete confining
Or circumstances continuing
When you think like the Nazareth
Ignoring what the rest expect
Pleasing God rather than man

His life is their proof
His existence our evidence
That the Most High
Comes to low places
Taking residence
Lifting low spaces to great heights
Blessed be the Nazareth
And Nazarites.

David Wilson

Happy Birthday Dyahnah!!

2011-12-08T09:36:00.001-05:00

She's 13 and she knows it!

Congrats on a milestone!

Conrad Murray and the Shackled-King

2011-11-30T10:13:00.001-05:00

Dr. Conrad Murray received 4 years for the involuntary manslaughter of superstar Michael Jackson. This is another sad chapter in the tragic life and death of another celebrity monster of our making. I think that there are two lessons to be learned from Conrad's story.

Be careful of who and what you celebrate.

When we talk about pop music, Mike was king. When we talk about real life, he was a slave. Mike's life off stage was one of sin, self-indulgence and self-destruction. So often what is celebrated on stage is contemptuous in life. Mike was miserable. We all know that he killed himself and used Conrad as the gun.

Now Conrad has to pay the price. He, like we, was so caught up with the Mike on stage that he couldn't see the Mike in shackles. Instead of being his doctor, Conrad was a fan. "Yes Mike," "sure Mike," "ok Mike," gets real easy when stars are in your eyes as you sleep in his mansion. Conrad would be in a better place right now if he had acted like a Doctor and treated MJ like regular people, at his office.

This is where the Lordship of Jesus Christ is so valuable. There's only room for one King in my life, and He is the only one I would do anything for.

Competence is always necessary.

I was pulling for Conrad during the trial. When the mistakes, lapses and failure to follow procedure started to show up, I knew he would be the scapegoat. Powerful people need scapegoats, those they can blame for their failures and mistakes. Governments, companies and families use them all the time. The perfect scapegoat is the one who characteristically takes the shortcut, bends the rules or comes up short. Thus Conrad was penalized for MJ's dysfunction.

The Defense tried to show that Conrad was a good man but to no avail. There is no doubt that he was community sensitive and benevolent, but he was sloppy. Doing good does not exempt one from doing it right. You should consistently follow the rules, pay attention to detail and give your best effort. This will protect you from poor performance and deliver you from blame.

Wisdom puts it this way - "Do you see a man diligent in his work, he will serve before kings, he will not serve obscure men (Pr. 22:29)."

I hate how this turned out, but hopefully the lessons will help us all.

Thank God!!

2011-11-25T21:47:00.001-05:00

From breath of life, to thirst quenching waters, shelter from the storm and food on our tables; we always have a reason to give God thanks. It's not only that God is good, it is because He does good, and He does good excellently and consistently. He makes life worth living. He balances out those uncomfortable, awkward moments of life with times that make you want to go on to the end. So we not only seek Him for help in our stress, we stop to give Him praise and honor in our peace. The God who was there in our lack is the God who is glorified in our full.

Ingratitude is the most common of iniquities in Scripture. In fact, it is the 'Gateway Sin' that precedes more obvious and obscene behavior. Ingratitude came before idolatry - failure to thank the true God opened the gate for another focus. Ingratitude came before rebellion, displaying itself in disloyalty, lawlessness and disrespect. Paul puts it this way, "For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened (Rom. 1:21)."

Thanksgiving is a character building practice. It is a discipline, so don't let it happen, make it happen! Be grateful. Give thanks. Be honorable. To God first then to everyone else. It is part of being a good person. Moreover, it will protect you from the destructive negatives of life by keeping you in the Way. That's how worship works.

"That man may last, but never lives,
Who much receives, but never gives;
Whom none can love, whom none can thank,
Creations blot, creations blank."
-- Thomas Gibbons

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!

"Smokin Joe"

2011-11-08T13:21:00.000-05:00

Joe died yesterday. A powerful boxer who became an Olympiad and then World Heavyweight Champion.

He had a great quote about the importance of training and preparation. Whether it is your study before preaching, research before spending, or practice before performing - Don't let the bright lights of an event distract you from the secret and often unappreciated hard work and discipline.

“You can map out a fight plan or a life plan, but when the action starts, it may not go the way you planned, and you're down to your reflexes - that means your [preparation:]. That's where your roadwork shows. If you cheated on that in the dark of the morning, well, you're going to get found out now, under the bright lights.”

--Joseph William Frasier - January 12, 1944 – November 7, 2011

A wonderful evening with the Kings Church!! Don't miss it!

2011-10-31T23:39:00.000-04:00

The Big Rocks

2011-10-25T20:43:00.000-04:00

One day this expert was speaking to a group of business students and, to drive home a point, used an illustration I’m sure those students will never forget. After I share it with you, you’ll never forget it either.

As this man stood in front of the group of high-powered over-achievers he said, "Okay, time for a quiz." Then he pulled out a one-gallon, wide-mouthed mason jar and set it on a table in front of him. Then he produced about a dozen fist-sized rocks and carefully placed them, one at a time, into the jar.
When the jar was filled to the top and no more rocks would fit inside, he asked, "Is this jar full?" Everyone in the class said, "Yes." Then he said, "Really?" He reached under the table and pulled out a bucket of gravel. Then he dumped some gravel in and shook the jar causing pieces of gravel to work themselves down into the spaces between the big rocks.
Then he smiled and asked the group once more, "Is the jar full?" By this time the class was onto him. "Probably not," one of them answered. "Good!" he replied. And he reached under the table and brought out a bucket of sand. He started dumping the sand in and it went into all the spaces left between the rocks and the gravel. Once more he asked the question, "Is this jar full?"

"No!" the class shouted. Once again he said, "Good!" Then he grabbed a pitcher of water and began to pour it in until the jar was filled to the brim. Then he looked up at the class and asked, "What is the point of this illustration?"

One eager beaver raised his hand and said, "The point is, no matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard, you can always fit some more things into it!"
"No," the speaker replied, "that’s not the point. The truth this illustration teaches us is: If you don’t put the big rocks in first, you’ll never get them in at all."

What are the big rocks in your life? A project that you want to accomplish? Time with your loved ones? Your faith, your education, your finances? A cause? Teaching or mentoring others? Remember to put these Big Rocks in first or you’ll never get them in at all.

- Stephen Covey

Be Beautiful

2011-09-21T11:17:00.000-04:00

It's okay. God doesn't mind. In fact, it is our Father's joy that you be gorgeous, attractive, fine and stylish. He wants you to light up the room when you walk in. He wants you to have an irresistibly contagious smile that says good things without one word. He wants you to have grace and dignity in your walk, seasoning in your words and an aroma that encourages deep breathing. He wants you to be beautiful, just as long as it's His idea of beauty.
"Who is like the wise man? Who knows the explanation of things? Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance (Eccl. 8:1)."
"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up (Prov. 12:25)."
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him (2 Cor. 2:14).
"The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit (Prov. 15:4)."
"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (Mt. 5:16)."
"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight (I Pet. 3:3-4)."
The world doesn't need more gaudily appareled, conceited elitist, gold plated pansies and cosmopolitan snobs. Enough with the cleavage and g-strings. Please stop the skinny and sagging jeans. We need more of the beauty of good character. More of that lasting comeliness, that inner shine that warms the soul.

Be encouraged to let the world see the goodness of God through your glorious appearance, Christlike character and graceful performance.

Weiner, Woods, You and I

2011-06-13T09:34:00.004-04:00

What does Weiner, Sheen, and Woods have in common with you and I? Not the riches and fame, nor the national news coverage. Commonly, we all share a fallen, contemptuous and destructive mentality. It's called the reprobate mind and living in Adam's fallen world guarantees its emergence and growth. All of us have it, but thanks to God we can be regularly treated for it.

The reprobate is your other you. Not the you that sits in service singing sweet hymns to Jesus, ready to celebrate the preaching of the Word. Not the you that is geared up to go to work on time and make a great day of it with a smile on your face and good tidings on your lips. Not the you who strives for purity and good living, upholding truth, love and morality. The other you! The 'stinking thinking' you. The 'I can't believe I said/did that' you. It's the devil on your left shoulder, countering the angel on your right. It is a most inconsistent, consequential and embarrassing malady that each man and woman suffers with.

This is what Paul speaks of in Romans 7 - "The good that I would I do not and the evil that I would not that I do." "Oh wretched man that I am, who shall save me from the body of this death." It is the war of the 'I's. There was an inner struggle in Paul, Judas, David, Moses, and every hero and villain of Scripture. Even Jesus! But the Lord did not sin.

That's the key by the way. The Spirit of God, who leads us in the lifestyle of Jesus, is the only answer for our reprobate tendencies. He is the only treatment that can deliver us from our contrary ways. Christians still have a reprobate, carnal, filthy mind - but we also have the mind of God dwelling within. He gives us a new way, better options and urges us away from our reprobate. He's our life coach, resident therapist and a solid corner man. "There is therefore now, no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit (Rom. 8:1)."

Weiner, Woods, Sheen you and I have the same disease! But thanks be to God that the Spirit makes a difference. When life caves in on any of us, we should not be proud and condemning, but humble and prayerful, because we know full well, we are just as sick. It is not that we are better, but that we have better treatment.

Growth

2011-05-31T12:49:00.002-04:00

It's garden time once again in my backyard. The tomatoes, peppers, corn and cucumbers are planted and already looking good. Now comes the waiting, weeding and watering as nature does the thing that God set it up to do. I wish I could snap my fingers or say a word that would make things grow over night, but that's fantasy. Growth comes at it's own pace in response to the right environment.
I see an analogy.
Growth comes when the seed or seedling spends time in the right place with the right elements. Good soil, sun and water. It's not magic or luck, it's the designed reaction to the right conditions. The same is true with the soul. Spiritual growth, fruit bearing and harvest is not a matter of race, location or privilege. They are the results of being in the presence of God, our light and water, that causes growth. Psalms 1 puts it this way - "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in due season."
Once your in the right place then it is only a matter of time. You can't rush agricultural growth and you can't rush spiritual growth. Both require patience. Not lazy patience, where you do nothing but wait on God. But perfecting patience as you water, nourish and nurture your growth. Character, faith, service, wisdom and devotion will grow, increase, multiply and mature through diligence, learning and application of principles. It will grow if you grow it. Hope is good, real good, but it won't grow what you don't plant and develop.

George Daniel Wilson

2011-05-13T17:56:00.008-04:00

On March 17th we buried our father.

Since then I've been thinking about what to say on RR that would be uplifting and encouraging. I'm not trying to be personal or spectacular, but grieving and goodbyes are unique experiences that bring great insight. I have handled countless funerals and comforted many members, but it's a different horse when you have to ride it yourself.

One thing became crystal clear - A spiritual family is an incredible source of comfort in times of loss. I received great love, condolences and prayer promises from all over the nation. Such a great outpouring humbled me and challenged me to be more sensitive to others as well. My immediate church family was with us through it all. Kings showed without doubt that they had lost a brother when I lost a father. Pop would've been proud of the services and the meal afterwards.

Daddy was ok with dying. He was in Christ and tired of the constant sickness and pain. When I visited him in the nursing home, I could tell he was more disappointed with being there than being sick. But I thought he would've bounced back like usual.

Playing it back, I think he knew he was leaving. He had started comparing himself with his father, Daddy Glen. Stressing that his father died coming back from Bojangles, (his usual breakfast spot), but he was going to die sick. I told him, "You fight until it's time to go, and don't worry about dying someone else's death." Turns out that that became a dramatic phrase in the storyline. He died the next morning.

There is something that I know is kind of sensitive, but he told me to tell it whenever I needed to, whenever I thought it could help someone. Most of my father's life was lived under the sinister haze of alcoholism. But he died 15 years sober. Scarred and bruised yet an overcomer of the toughest sort.

Father was the point of many 'firsts' in my life.
He was my first teacher for the things of God.
He taught me how to tie my first tie.
He was there when I caught my first fish.
Best of all...
He helped me preach my first sermon.

Rest in Peace
George Daniel Wilson

Nat Turner - The Black Sheep of Black History

2011-02-28T07:31:00.000-05:00

Nat Turner’s story is a vital part of the Freedom Saga. No, I doubt there will be any holidays, stamps or highways named after him, but his story must be heard. Trust me, if the enemies of freedom could erase any part of the struggle, they would choose this one. In fact, it wasn’t till I was an adult that I heard about Nat, the ‘property’ of Samuel Turner.

He was an intelligent, ultra-religious and driven young man. One of the few slaves who could read, Nat was said to have spent long hours reading the Bible. He would often have visions that he believed were from God. Once, after running away and hiding in the woods for a month, he returned to his master after having such a vision. These visions, coupled with atmospheric phenomenon, during the dark ages of America, birthed the destiny of Nat Turner.

The reason his story is so shaded and controversial is that he fought back. Turner led the greatest or most horrific, (depending on which side of freedom you stand) slave revolt in American History. In August of 1831, for 48 hours in South Hampton Virginia, Nat and a group of about 50 other slaves and freed blacks, methodically and quietly killed 57 white men, women and children.

After a militia of slaveholders ended the rebellion, Nat was tried, convicted, hung and then flayed, quartered and beheaded. 58 men suspected of involvement were also hung. In months to come, an estimated 200 slaves were beaten, hung and mutilated by angry mobs of whites. The abolitionist movement was halted in that area, as whites became polarized concerning slavery.

Nat’s legacy undeniably removes the myth that slaves happily embraced their subservient state.

http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/black_voices/voices_display.cfm?id=20

Today, Nat’s legacy is on trial. Some hail him hero, others call him lunatic.
Some call him freedom fighter; others call him blood thirsty opportunist. I say that he is the logical result of the cruel, heinous, diabolical, dehumanizing crime of slavery. Hate begets hate. Radical situations produce radicalness.

I call him, inevitable.

Fight the Funk

2011-02-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

Inevitably, the day comes when you just don’t feel like doing what you must do. You were called to it, even created for it, but inexplicably and unexpectedly your will dissipates. Most days you can leap over the wall, kill the dragon, save the village in time for a late breakfast. Then other times you can barely get out of bed to use the bathroom.

Fatigue comes in many forms;
Muscular – when you extensively use certain muscles to the point of exhaustion.
Physical – like muscular fatigue but on a body wide scale. Sometimes the results of chemical depletion or sickness.
Mental – when you literally get tired of thinking. (One time after a stressful day with the church, I almost broke down and cried because Cathi asked me if I wanted corn or green beans.)
Emotional – usually following a traumatic or depressing situation. It can cause an implosion of the psyche, manifesting in a shut down of the body and mind.

Worse than all of these is Spiritual Fatigue. This is the exhaustion of the will. The will can manage all other tiredness in general (ie. change diet, get more rest, cry it out), but what happens when your will loses will? How do you overcome not wanting to overcome? Despondence, apathy, and passionlessness are more than moods; they are droughts of the soul.

David said, “I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD ().”

Here are four keys to manage or defeat spiritual fatigue:
1. Get a better perspective on life through what you “see” out of God’s Word. Encourage yourself. Build yourself up.
2. Expose yourself to encouragers not enablers. Hopefully you would have already surrounded yourself with them before you went into crisis. sometimes a shoulder to cry on is the worst thing in the world.
3. Count the cost of your continued inactivity. Can you really live with the village being burned down? Your work is important.
4. Never ever buy into the notion that things will always be the same. Life rewards action. Forcing yourself to do what you are supposed to do has a way of creating momentum for your entire being. Purpose can awake passion.

On Ted Williams

2011-01-07T09:11:00.002-05:00

Our hearts were warmed by the story of Ted Williams. We love stories of redemption, stories of the prodigal or the fallen making a comeback. It speaks to many values in our lives as well as the hope we all carry of better things. I am sincerely happy and hopeful for Ted, and I love his dynamic, God given voice.

However -

This great story reveals a major flaw in our cultural thinking. While we love someone who rises from the depths of despair, we often forget those that have stayed on the path. There are other talented voices who were easily overlooked by Kraft, the Cavs and The Today Show, while a star rose from the ashes of failure and caught the national spotlight. Others trained in voice-overs are struggling to rise through hard work and hustle, were bypassed because they were on the normal, regular, non-dramatic road.

Ted's story is good because of a bad thing, failure. His decision to use addictive substances was a mistake from which most people do not recover. While we celebrate his escape or success, the grim truth is, it didn't have to go this way. But if it hadn't would we have noticed him?

I'd encourage every go-getter and hard worker, forgotten or disregarded, to stay on the path and keep working it out. Persistence, discipline and patience are winning combinations even if they don't make the Today Show.

Hope Up!

A New Mind for this New Time

2011-01-01T21:41:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year and may God bless you with progress and prosperity.

There's just a wonderful feeling in the air when the first of January rolls in. Newness awakens anticipation and determination to be better and do better. Revelations, resignations and resolutions are had and made now more than at any other time of the year. It's almost like we don't want to spoil the New Year Baby with our old faulty behavior. That's good.

Let me offer some help. The newness of this time will not matter without a newness of mind. Thankfully the same God who makes the times new, can make your mind new. Transformation is God's thing. He renews, regenerates, restores, redeems and brings to repentance. And he does it through His Word.

"Be not conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind... (Rom. 12:2)"
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. (Ps. 51:10)."
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you (Is. 26:3)."

This new year will become old real fast if your old mind gets a hold of it. Put the big golden hat down, put the horn away, open up God's Word and let Him do His thing with your mind.

Day 1

Hymns -vs- Praise Choruses

2010-12-28T17:53:00.002-05:00

An old farmer went to the city one weekend and attended the big-city church. He came home and his wife asked him how it was.

"Well," said the farmer, "it was good; but they did something different. They sang praise choruses instead of hymns."

"Praise choruses?" said his wife. "What are those?"

"Oh, they're OK. They're sort of like hymns, only different," said the farmer.

"Well, what's the difference?" asked his wife.

The farmer said, "Well it's like this: If I said to you: 'Martha, the cows are in the corn,' well, that would be a hymn. On the other hand, if I said to you: 'Martha Martha, Martha, Oh, Martha, MARTHA, MARTHA, the cows, the big cows, the brown cows, the black cows, the white cows, the black-and-white cows, the COWS, COWS, COWS are in the corn, are in the corn, are in the corn, are in the corn, the CORN, CORN, CORN,' then, if I were to repeat the whole thing two or three times, well that would be a praise chorus."

(Author unknown)

Jesus and Immanuel

2010-12-25T00:22:00.004-05:00

The Angel said - "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” The prophet said - “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”—which means, “God with us.” (Mat. 1:21,23)

Immanuel - God with us.
Jesus - God saves.

There is great power in our Lord's names. Great meaning. Great significance. The angelic announcement was and is a great source of comfort and cause for celebration. It proclaimed a divine transition from heavenly silence to dynamic personal action.

No more Lostness - Together the names show a systematic principle. God saves by being with us, and if God is with us He will surely save us. the baby born of a virgin is nothing less than God in the flesh. The eternal God stepped into time. The omnipresent God had taken up spacial existence. He did it so that He could be with man not just over man. He came and experienced human existence so that He could bring heaven to us. He came where we were so that we could come where He is.

No more Loneliness - God with us meant that we would never be alone again. Covenant relationship is in the names of Jesus. God is with us in our daily walk through a sometimes cruel and uncaring world. God is with us when we are confused, perplexed, insecure, bewildered and discontent. God is with us when we are rejected or betrayed. God is with us when we are tempted and tried. God is with us when it seems like no one understands. 'Jesus' and 'Immanuel' announces that an ever abiding God is present and active with those that believe.

We call Him Redeemer because He bought us.
We call Him Teacher because He shows us.
We call Him Wonderful because He is good to us.
We call Him Counselor because He guides us.
We call Him Shepherd because He finds us.
We call Him Rock because He stands for us.
We call Him Master because He commands us.
We call Him Priest because he offered for us.
we call Him Prophet because He speaks to us.
We call Him King because He protects us.
We call Him Lion because He fought for us.
We call Him Savior because He died for us.
We call Him Lord because He rose from death and speaks for us.

Come to know His names rather than just knowing what His name is.

The Nazareth

2010-12-16T21:50:00.001-05:00

Prompts for Praise

2010-12-06T08:04:00.004-05:00

"And they praised God because of me (Gal. 1:24)."

When God is praised awesome consequences take place. He is well pleased and draws near with blessings. Personal worries and fears are assaulted by celebrated conviction. The Devil and his legions flee in panic at the celebration of God's name and rehearsal of His power.

Paul's personal testimony in the book of Galatians, reveals an amazing fact about praise - we can be the reason that men and women praise God. Paul said that the churches in Judea praised God because of his ministry. There was sincere joy over his accomplishments in service to God. This joy was accentuated or augmented by the fact that they knew he was formerly their persecutor.

The one who used to murder Christians is now birthing them.

The one who chased Christians now leads them.

The one who helped kill Stephen, now leads men like Titus, Timothy, Epaphroditus and Silas

The one who fought them, now fights for them on the front-lines of the good fight of faith.

When the churches in Judea heard that report they praised God.

You and I can be a reason, a prompt to praise God.

By our work and support of ministry.
Through our example of God's presence.
By the evident change of direction and focus.

And they will praise God because of you too.

Growing in Gratitude

2010-11-27T06:52:00.008-05:00

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus (I Thess. 5:18)."

God's blessings be upon you and your family during this season of Thanks. I would kindly remind us that thankfulness is not seasonal, but an integral part of Christian character. The beauty of thankfulness is easy to see against the ugliness of complaining and ingratitude.

This passage is one out of many that helps us to see that Thankfulness;

Is a Command -

There is a biblical imperative to be thankful. Just as God leads, directs and demands us in morality, worship and doctrine, He does so concerning gratitude and thankfulness. It is the will of God!

Is a Choice -

God will not force anyone to follow His lead or obey His command. Humble submission is always necessary in keeping God's Word. Thankfulness is not hardwired into some of our DNA, it is a determined choice. The same goes for the ugly and malignant character of complaint. Choose wisely.

Bears Consequence -

Choices come with consequence. Events, results, fruit and outcome point to the 'why' of the thing. Following God's will in this or any area has a beneficial ending. Failure to follow always leads to some detrimental or disastrous end. The choice is ours to make. Health, wealth, looks, style, relationships and faith are impacted and effected by gratitude.

Is a Commitment -

Whenever the right choice is made it must then be upheld. That takes endurance, perseverance or sticktoitiveness. Selfishness, complaining, cynicism and other enemies of thanksgiving will constantly assault your resolve to be thankful. Fight it. Overcome it. Don't let any negative, base or natural tendency get in the way of you becoming what God desires. It is the only way to "give thanks in all circumstance".

Becomes a Character -

If you practice a discipline, no matter how hard it may seem at first, it will eventually become part of your natural tendency. Awkwardness will fade and uneasiness will be replaced with a new skill. Like a long time employee or a veteran soldier, the basics become second nature. The same with thankfulness - it becomes character. God doesn't want you to give thanks as much as He desires for you and I to become thankful. There is a difference.

Growing in God means Growing in Grace means Growing in Gratitude means Growing in Godliness means Growing in Glory.

I Hope this Hopes you.

Rescue

2010-10-14T10:49:00.007-04:00

I waited patiently for the LORD

And he inclined to me and heard my cry.

He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD. -- Psalm 40:1-3

Thank God for the rescue of the Chilean miners. It was heart touching to see them brought up from the ground, after so many weeks, to be reunited with family and friends. The joy expressed at their rescue made me think of God's love for us and His great work in salvation.

He Listens - We serve a living and listening God. Not a concept or great power, but a good God who is active and aggressively leaning to listen to his children. Like a mother recognizing her baby's cry, He hears and is moved by our distress.

He Lifts - The miner's situation was like sin but extremely better. Like sin, they were stuck, deep below, under ground, in relative darkness, separated from the living. Like sin they were powerless to change situation and needed someone to rescue them. Like sin, they could not improve their situation, or climb to higher ground, or think themselves safe, or act better to rise up. They had to be lifted. They had to submit to a rescuing power, do what was told, and avail themselves of a plan of redemption worked out for them. They had to wait and then move in obedience to those rescuing. So too for the man or woman that God delivers from the muck and mire of sin.

He Liberates - After the wondrous deliverance from the muck and mire, God gives us a new song. It is not enough to change the situation and not change our mentality. Weeping is appropriate when you are stuck in the muck, but when deliverance comes, it's time to change the mood. God gives a new song, putting it in the mouth of the one He saved.

Praise to the God of heaven for His Son who came down here to bring us up there.

Start Unpacking

2010-08-06T08:38:00.005-04:00

"... And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this (Ester 4:14). "

God knew exactly what He was doing when He put what He had within you. He didn't need to put more, He didn't make a mistake, He didn't miscalculate or mismanage your making. He gifted you according to the needs that he foreknew would exist around you. He planned to provide for current situations by planting within you the answer to prayers that would be made.

The point is - you are enough. By the wisdom and foreknowledge of God, you are enough. You are whats needed. You're the answer God gave for the situations around you.

God looked down the stream of time, saw the needs of this present life and packed a bag of provision called YOU. Things will get better when you stop crying, complaining and comparing, so you can start unpacking.

God Delights to Forgive

2010-05-20T10:17:00.004-04:00

Who is a God like to you, that pardons iniquity, and passes by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retains not his anger for ever, because he delights in mercy (Micah 7:18).

No wonder God's grace is classified as amazing. It baffles and astounds the mind when one considers how God loves us and forgives us of all trespasses in Christ. He does it freely, ungrudgingly, completely, lavishly, unabashedly and delightfully. God loves to forgive. He delights in mercy.

That's good news for failing and faithless men and women. Our God forgives us of our sins with an attitude of joy. Once we repent, turn around and seek Him, God rushes to forgive. He doesn't stand over us waiting for us to grovel for an appointed time. He doesn't put us on probation to prove we are worthy of forgiveness. That's what we do but that's not what God does. He delights in forgiveness. I see now why Jesus said that there is joy in heaven over one sinner that repents than over ninety-nine that don't need to.

This also a great challenge of character. How can we love a God that loves to forgive and not desire to be like Him in the way that we forgive? How can we celebrate God's love and not emulate God's love? In fact, Jesus' parable of the unforgiving servant (Mt. 19), shows a very forgiving master, having a seriously violent reaction to a servant who, while forgiven of his crimes, does not forgive another. "Forgive us of our debt as we forgive our debtors," resonates with consequential meaning.

There are great benefits to being a person who loves to be merciful.

Psychological freedom - Holding grudges are a huge burden that leads to exhaustion.
Health - Scientist are discovering the stress associated with the unforgiving heart.
Charisma - Being like God results in a winning personality. Favor and benevolence are bestowed on the forgiving person.
Spiritually - You look like God when you love like God.

"To forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, you will receive untold peace and happiness." - Robert Muller

A Haiku of Psalm 1

2010-05-14T09:05:00.003-04:00

Blessed is the man

Who does not walk, stand or sit

In facets of sin

But delights in Word

So much so that day and night

His mind chews on it

Resembling a tree

Providentially planted

By flowing rivers

He produces with

Remarkable renewal

Having great success

But the ungodly

Are plainly the opposite

From the righteous man

They are like wheat husk

Useless, dried up and lightweight

Floating on breezes

This is the reason

Sinners are shamed in judgement

Avoiding worship

God is vigilant

Over the ways and the paths

Of the righteous man

But the foul lifestyle

Of those living against God

Will be demolished.

2010-05-13T09:02:00.006-04:00

Busy Busy Busy? "Make sure that in all thy doings that thou doest the thing that thou doest." Aint no fun till the job gets done. Here's some Word on it.

Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Proverbs 7:15 Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.
Proverbs 10:4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
Proverbs 11:27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.
Proverbs 12:24 The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.
Proverbs 12:27 The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Proverbs 21:5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.
Proverbs 22:29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Proverbs 27:23 Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

You Die By what you Live By

2010-05-11T07:59:00.004-04:00

"Then said Jesus to him, Put up again your sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. (Mt. 26:52)."

We know this historical saying as 'Live by the Sword, Die by the Sword.' While Jesus was dealing with some serious matters in the Garden of Gethsemane, this may have already been a proverbial statement. It certainly is proverbial today. Very few people even have a sword but this proverb is still applicable.

It is a warning against violence -

This is the obvious or primary meaning. If you live by violence you will die violently. Anger, wrath, vengeance, strife, tumults and debates are indeed exciting and spectacular things. Nothing gets your blood pumping like a good fight. Nothing creates buy-in like the promise of contention. Sunday night service is always packed when the scent of blood is in the air. The problem is you can't live by this type of energy.

Violence begets violence. The ebb and flow of eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth can continue unceasingly, but it overflows into areas unforeseen. Harmony is disrupted, peace becomes rare, and growth is rendered impossible.

It can be a saying about values -

Proverbs can be applied in many ways. Therefore, the sword can mean more than a sword. Whatever you live by you die by. Whatever is important to you now will set the path for the continuance and situations of your life. The life you live will lead you. So while the sword represents negativity the principal can be positive.

If you live by the truth you will die by the truth. If you live by hard-work you will die by hard-work. If you live a life of love you can die still loving. If you live loving God then you will die loving God. Whatever value is important enough to live by will characteristically become what you die by.

Choose your path wisely.

Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

Who is the man who desires life, And loves length of days that he may see good?

Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.

Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.

Psalm 34:11-14

2010-05-08T12:13:00.001-04:00

God is the alpha source of man's masculinity and the woman's femininity. He is the perfect father in providence and perfect mother in development. He chastises and comforts, He commands and pleads, He smites and saves, He destroys and raises again. We in turn fear the Lord and love him with all of our hearts.

2010-04-29T09:10:00.000-04:00

Waiting on the Lord doesn't mean twiddling your thumbs and whistling Dixie. It means doing your part looking forward to God doing His. Work for the Lord while you wait on the Lord. Life rewards action.

2010-04-27T11:05:00.001-04:00

One week we ask God to teach us patience. The next week we ask Him to deliver us from His class. Don't pray yourself out of the very thing you prayed for. Stick to it. Persevere.

Forward!

2010-04-26T08:58:00.005-04:00

If I go backwards, I'll only see what I've already seen, do what I've already done and get what I've already got. If I go sideways, I'll be off of the path that's destined for glorious things and godly dreams. If I stand still, I will delude myself with sanctified stagnation, being in the way but not on the way.

I must move forward.

Destiny is forward

Prosperity is forward.

Challenges are forward.

Greatness is forward.

Victories are forward.

The words "Well done thy good and faithful servant" are forward.

Think About what you Think About

2010-04-24T10:48:00.004-04:00

"As a man thinks in his heart so is he. Prov. 23:7" Oh the power of a made up mind. And how wonderful the choice of what to think on. Moreover to think on those things that create strength, purpose, health and wealth.

Reality and mentality are irrevocably connected. What you think will doubtlessly be manifest through your body and actions. No, you can't control events and weather. That's not your business. Attitude, actions, responses and character are.

Here's the short of it. If your thinking is miserable, hateful, depressed, resentful, complaining, critical, envious, and such like - - your body will follow. Health will deteriorate, speech will be poisonous and actions will be contaminated. You gotta watch what you think. How you think is how you are.

And by the way, How are you? Are you miserable? Are you resentful or angry? are you faultfinding and bitter? Well the verse works backwards - As a man is so is his thinking.

Amazing news! You get to choose what you will be! You want to be hopeful? Start thinking on hope. Want to be spiritual? Start thinking on spiritual things. What you think is what you are. Practically not magically or metaphorically. Life responds to action and actions are birthed by thinking.

Stop thinking yourself into failure. Have a changed and transformed mind. Think on good things - Phil. 4:8-9.

Focus

2010-04-23T08:12:00.005-04:00

It can turn sunlight into a deadly weapon. It can make a blurry haze a sharp distinct image. It can turn a slap into a knockout punch. It can make a life energetic and effective. In all your going, doing, making and moving, have laser like focus on the task at hand. Don't just do it, do it well.

2010-04-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Any Spiritual metaphor that removes us from personal responsibility is a highly debilitating fallacy. God is the King not the servant. He gives the power but we do the doing. Looking for God to do what you are too scared, lazy or busy to do is the picture of effortless failure.

He Thinks of Us

2010-04-20T09:34:00.004-04:00

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. Psalm 139:17-18

The Bible is full of good news and this is a supreme thought amid many great thoughts. God thinks about us!!

In His highness He thinks of us. Supremely set above the circles of all that exist. Unmatched in glory, splendid in majesty and transcendent in power – He thinks of us. Amid the adoration of Seraphim and Cherubim, lightning and thunder, sitting on the eternal throne – He thinks of us. The all-knowing, all-mighty, ever present, everlasting to everlasting God of mercy thinks of us.

In our lowliness He thinks of us. Often distracted, dysfunctional and destitute – yet He thinks of us. Prone to falling, failing, pettiness and petulance – yet he thinks of us. Like passing vapors and drifting dust in His eternal view, desperately seeking solidity, significance and the spectacular, the universal intellect thinks of us. Contrary to a thoughtless, calloused world, God’s sees us, considers us and would guide us. While those we think of often think of all else, God has us on His mind.

Why would the Most High, consider those who are so low? It could only be his great love for us. Historic love that grants the most undeserving the greatest of favors.

Thank you Father for the great comfort of your Word and the wondrous knowledge of your love. Forgive us for the many times that we failed to think of you.

Got Peace?

2010-04-13T13:19:00.000-04:00

A rare, precious, priceless gift is the peace that passes all understanding. Everybody wants it but everybody can’t find it. This hustle and bustle, daily grind, buy and sell, appointments to keep, people to meet, hasty hecticness that we call life needs a big dose of peace.

Chaos is invasive. It penetrates and disrupts every aspect of our lives. Thoughts become stressful, relationships become resentful, work becomes unfruitful and sleep becomes impossible. You need peace to overcome the chaos. But you need to have the right peace.

Notice how many CVS, Walgreens and Duane Reades are around you? You know what they sell most? Pharmaceutical peace. Pill peace to help you sleep. Pink peace to ease your stomach. Powder peace to ease your mind. The thing is these quick comfort remedies don’t fix the real problem. Headache, sleep loss and diarrhea are usually symptoms of anxiety that comes from poor living.

Real close to Duane Reade, you’ll find a liquor store. They can’t give you peace either. They can only give temporary euphoria. The price though, (monetary, socially, emotionally and spiritually), is too much to pay. Plus you have to do more to get less high. (Don’t ask)

Some try to get away. Unfortunately, life is such that trouble can find you wherever you are. In fact, real life issues will go with you wherever you go. True peace is not found in vacations.

The short of it is, God gives real peace. Meaningful not momentary, systematic not symptomatic, anywhere, anytime peace. God said to His people, “If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea (Isa. 49:18 NIV).”

Real peace comes from following God’s Word. That truth becomes even clearer when you look at it from the back. The most anxious, stressful, sleepless, hostile, chaotic moments of my life, came from disobeying God’s Word. God doesn’t tell us what to do because He’s bossy. He tells us how to live because He knows the secrets to successful, stress free, productive, happy living.

There is nothing like the peace of living Godly. How you livin'?

Wake Up Elephant!

2010-03-18T08:09:00.000-04:00

There is a great lesson on life at the circus. Once you are wowed by the acrobats, awed by the tightrope performers and amused (or frightened) by the clowns, you should consider the elephants. These glorious, powerful, heavyweights of creation are centerpieces of the show. What would the circus be without them?

Yet, there is something unsettling about the elephant shows. The largest and strongest animals on earth are controlled by a little man with a whip. The man raises the whip and the elephant stands up. The man waves the whip around and the elephant dances. The man brings the whip down and the elephant sits.

You have to wonder why something like this happens. How can something so large be controlled by something so small?

Well, the answer is profound. The reason the man can control the beast is understood in the infancy of the elephant. The trainer convinces the baby elephant that he is its master. He feeds it, pets it, bathes it and tells it what to do. So through time the elephant comes to accept this reality as the only reality there is.

And the show begins. The elephant doesn’t know that he is stronger than the man and that the whip can only sting. So he dances with no thought for dignity. He prances with no sense of pride. He amuses with no knowledge of his awesomeness.

Every now and then, however, an elephant has an awakening. Something ignites inside of him, shattering the imposed reality and replaces it with a view of what he was supposed to be. He suddenly decides that he doesn’t like the food, that he doesn’t want to dance and that he’s sick and tired of the little man and his so-and-so whip. He breaks the rope, tramples the man and rampages down the street. And a new star is born, filmed for the nightly news at eleven or “When Animals Attack”.

Herein is the lesson. You are greater than what controls you. You were made powerful, glorious and awesome. Yet through the deception of perception, you’ve let the less of you confine the best of you for the amusement of the crowd.

The Devil dreads the day that we finally wake up and understand who we really are. “Awake, awake; put on thy strength oh Zion... (Isa. 52:1).”

No More Prayers for Nothing

2010-03-12T16:44:00.000-05:00

We were boarding what would be a long flight. I was tired and wanted to stretch out and be comfortable. So far, the seat next to me was empty and I was so hopeful that it would remain that way. As the line of passengers began to dwindle I did something that led to a very life changing event. I prayed to God that no one would sit next to me.

Yup! I bowed my head, closed my eyes and sent up my request to the throne of God. I’d done so before. I thought nothing of it. But then an incredible thing happened.

In the midst of my prayer, before I could finish my one line request, I saw Jesus. He was praying in the Garden, leaning hard against a stone. Dust covered his clothes. Sweat was running off his face. Tears were in his eyes and his lips were dry.

He lifted his head,

turned to me.

And said,

“That’s what you come here for?”

The look on his face and the sound in his voice had an immediate effect on me. I felt so ashamed. How small I was. How petty and selfish I had been. A prayer for an open seat became clearly un-Christ like.

I determined then that I will no longer pray for nothing.

So what if I have to sit next to someone on the flight. So what if it rains and spoils my golf plans. So what if my team doesn’t win. So what if I have to make adjustments or alternate plans. I will no longer pray for that which matters none. I will endure the small things to become bigger and better.

I will pray instead for the things that Jesus died for me to enjoy – Self-control, wisdom, purity, virtue, patience, endurance, love and such.

I wouldn’t be ashamed to go to the Garden and pray for those things.

The Genes of Generosity

2010-03-08T18:26:00.006-05:00

Generosity is rooted in the Latin word genus, which means race or stock. The word generosus itself means 'of noble birth'. Now how about that?

I guess the picture is that someone of nobility would have the standing and resources to be liberal or giving to others. Maybe it was even expected that nobles shared what they had with their servants or the poor. Whatever the case, when anyone was liberal with their possessions, sharing what they had, they were called generous, of noble birth.

I find an even greater connection through Scripture. Without doubt, the pinnacle of generosity is occupied by the throne of God. He loved, gave and saved the world through His unequaled and unparalleled generosity. Liberality, graciousness, sacrifice and mercy are all seen in the great gift of Jesus Christ. We are saved by Divine Generosity.

When we love, give, show mercy and grace we become children of the heavenly Father. It's in the genes, so to speak. Spiritual genes. This is what Jesus said, "That you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust (Matt. 5:46)."

It is noble to be generous. Not the nobility of dukes, barons, kings and queens but that of the God of heaven. Selfishness, greed and miserliness are earthly flaws. Grace, mercy, love and liberality are from the throne above. When I forsake the former and embrace the latter, I become a son of the Most High King.

Embrace Generosity and be remade into the Royal Family.

INFORMATION PLEASE

2010-03-06T16:42:00.000-05:00

When I was quite young, my father had one of the first telephones in our neighborhood. I remember well the polished old case fastened to the wall. The shiny receiver hung on the side of the box. I was too little to reach the telephone, but used to listen with fascination when my mother used to talk to it. Then I discovered that somewhere inside the wonderful device lived an amazing person - her name was "Information Please" and there was nothing she did not know. "Information Please" could supply anybody's number and the correct time.

My first personal experience with this genie-in-the-bottle came one day while my mother was visiting a neighbor. Amusing myself at the tool bench in the basement, I whacked my finger with a hammer. The pain was terrible, but there didn't seem to be any reason for crying because there was no one home to give sympathy. I walked around the house sucking my throbbing finger, finally arriving at the stairway. "The telephone," I thought.

Quickly, I ran for the footstool in the parlor and dragged it to the landing. Climbing up, I unhooked the receiver in the parlor and held it to my ear. "Information Please," I said into the mouthpiece just above my head. A click or two and a small clear voice spoke into my ear.

"Information."

"I hurt my finger. . ." I wailed into the phone. The tears came readily enough now that I had an audience.

"Isn't your mother home?" came the question.

"Nobody's home but me." I blubbered.

"Are you bleeding?"

"No," I replied. "I hit my finger with the hammer and it hurts."

"Can you open your icebox?" she asked. I said I could.

"Then chip off a little piece of ice and hold it to your finger," said the voice.

After that, I called "Information Please" for everything. I asked her for help with my geography and she told me where Philadelphia was. She helped me with my math. She told me my pet chipmunk that I had caught in the park just the day before would eat fruits and nuts.

Then, there was the time Petey, our pet canary died. I called "Information Please" and told her the sad story. She listened, then said the usual things grown-ups say to soothe a child. But I was un-consoled. I asked her, "Why is it that birds should sing so beautifully and bring joy to all families, only to end up as a heap of feathers on the bottom of a cage?" She must have sensed my deep concern, for she said quietly, "Paul, always remember that there are other worlds to sing in."

Somehow I felt better.

Another day I was on the telephone. "Information Please."

"Information," said the now familiar voice.

"How do you spell fix?" I asked.

All this took place in a small town in the Pacific Northwest.

When I was 9 years old, we moved across the country to Boston. I missed my friend very much. "Information Please" belonged in that old wooden box back home, and I somehow never thought of trying the tall, shiny new phone that sat on the table in the hall.

As I grew into my teens, the memories of those childhood conversations never really left me. Often, in moments of doubt and perplexity I would recall the serene sense of security I had then. I appreciated now how patient, understanding, and kind she was to have spent her time on a little boy.

A few years later, on my way west to college, my plane put down in Seattle. I had about half an hour or so between planes. I spent 15 minutes or so on the phone with my sister, who lived there now.

Then without thinking what I was doing, I dialed my hometown operator and said, "Information, Please."

Miraculously, I heard the small, clear voice I knew so well, "Information."

I hadn't planned this but I heard myself saying, "Could you please tell me how to spell fix?"

There was a long pause. Then came the soft spoken answer, "I guess your finger must have healed by now."

I laughed. "So it's really still you,' I said. "I wonder if you have any idea how much you meant to me during that time."

"I wonder," she said, "if you know how much your calls meant to me. I never had any children, and I used to look forward to your calls." I told her how often I had thought of her over the years and I asked if I could call her again when I came back to visit my sister.

"Please do, she said. "Just ask for Sally."

Three months later, I was back in Seattle. A different voice answered, "Information." I asked for Sally.

"Are you a friend?" She said.

"Yes, a very old friend," I answered.

She paused. "I'm sorry to have to tell you this, she said. Sally had been working part-time the last few years because she was sick. She died five weeks ago."

I was stunned. Before I could hang up she said, "Wait a minute. Did you say your name was Paul?"

"Yes."

"Well, Sally left a message for you. She wrote it down in case you called. Let me read it to you." The note says, "Tell him I still say there are other worlds to sing in. He'll know what I mean."

I thanked her and hung up..I knew what Sally meant.

Never underestimate the impression you may make on others

--Selected

Vision

2010-02-12T08:40:00.002-05:00

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. - Proverbs 29:18

Vision is essential. Businesses, churches, families and individuals need to have a vision, a directing goal, in their lives. To be without is a prelude to destruction or failure.

Vision answers, 'Where are you going?' It is the desired results, the favorable outcome of action and direction. Vision creates excitement, energy and concentration. The 'where we are going' justifies the 'what do we have to do to get there'.

God provides vision. The word spoken in Proverbs means 'word from the Lord'. Without revelation from God, prophetic instruction or divine guidance, the people perish. God gives vision through His Word. This is good news and bad news.

The Good news is that one's relationship with God and dependence on His word provides vision. The character, values and discipline that comes through Scripture points one in the direction that he should go. Even more, the more one opens his heart to God's Word the clearer the vision becomes.

The bad news is that since vision comes from God's Word, then every vision is not the right vision. Some are excited and enthused about going in the wrong direction. Some are clearly seeing the wrong thing while lacking the discernment of right and wrong that comes through the knowledge of God. This leads to wasted time and energy. Many have reached the goal only to find frustration and dissatisfaction. Michaelangelo says "The greatest crime is not that we aim too high and miss but that we aim to low and we hit it."

The point is, draw close to God and God's Word so that He can guide you by the Vision He provides.

Making Love or Love Making (Valentine's Special)

2010-02-11T17:49:00.000-05:00

I bet I have your attention now. Sex does that. Ice cream, shaving cream and chewing gum commercials use it, why not me. (I ought to have at least 30 replies on this one)

Actually I’m not talking about sex. I’m really talking about love. Real love. Not that hush puppy, mushy, gushy play-play love, but real love. The love that originates from God is not the same as what passes for love down here.

One of the most blaring examples is to call sex, love making. I’m not even talking about illegitimate sex; I mean the divinely authorized sexual activity between a husband and wife. Having sex is not the same as making love. Though sex makes your head swoon and your heart palpitate don’t confuse it with love. Love making takes a whole lot more than that.

To equate sex with love exalts the temporary, carnal, human experience to the heights of divine character. It is symptomatic of the self-seeking, self-pleasing spirit that rules the hearts of the unregenerate man. God desires to raise us to His level, we try to bring Him down to ours.

Here’s my list of reasons why sex (marital) should not be called making love. I’ll start it you finish it. Blog away.

1. Real love is not conditioned on the “mood”.
2. Sex requires chemicals, love requires spirit.
3. You must eventually stop having sex (at some point), but love must continue.
4. The Bible calls it due benevolence or “knowing”.
5. Love is what your children ought to see, not sex.
6. The term was paraded and applauded by hippies.
7. You have to study the character of God to create love.
8. You give much more than your body to make love.
9. Making real love is not about performance but selfless sacrifice.
10. Loving your enemies ain’t sexy.
11. Sex can make a baby, but it can’t raise one.
12. Eros love is not mentioned in Scripture.
13. Sex is episodic, but love is eternal.
14. Sex doesn’t always go right, but love never fails.
15. Proof of love doesn’t come during the honeymoon but after surviving some marital crisis.
16. Sex will put you to sleep, but love will send you to the cross.
17. Sensuality is physical, love is spiritual.
18. Physical disability, even paralysis, is no hindrance to real love.
19. You can’t fake love (not for long).
20. …..

The Newness

2010-01-01T13:44:00.004-05:00

"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come (2 Cor. 5:17)"

Awwwwwwww yeah! Once again once again. God has done it once again! Another year has come, bringing excitement, resolve and anticipation. The New Year, and new decade, also brings an opportune time to embrace the concept of Newness.

The Niceness of Newness

Newborn babes, early mornings, appliances, love and money are all particularly attractive because of newness. We all know the exhilaration of a new start and the determination of a new beginning. We remember well how geared up, focused and dressed up we got for a new job, new school year or a second chance. It is good for us to feel that way about the New Year, but even more so for the New Life in Christ Jesus. Indeed, if we would be excited, exhilarated, geared up, dressed up, focused and determined about our Christianity, then we would by necessity be the same of every day we live. There is nothing nicer than the New Life in Christ.

The Numbness of Newness

Beware of a cavalier, wasteful attitude about newness. Many have played the 'there's always tomorrow' or 'God will understand' card to their own demise. The heinous thing is that procrastination, wastefulness and laziness produces a lethargic, desensitized, unconcerned attitude about life. The symptoms of such is seen in a nonchalant approach to new opportunities, an unwillingness to change a negative situation, and an unrepentant life of sin. Misusing newness is the same as abusing grace - A failed life with beautiful confessions. Make good use of the New Life in Christ.

The Nearness of Newness

Be aware and have no doubt that every New Year, indeed , every new day draws closer to the return of the Lord. Time is passing and He is coming. These new days are clicks on the clock of the end of time. This is not to scare you but to prepare you. Don't let the newnesses of life lull you into a false sense of sameness. Life is not about the next day or year. It is about pleasing our soon coming Lord and Christ. He will soon shatter irreparably the system and cycle of days and seasons. When He comes He will bring eternal rewards and eternal retribution. So then get ready and stay ready so you can be ready when He comes back.

In this New Year season remember to celebrate the New Life in Christ. Purpose to make the best use of the newness He brings.

A Solitary Life

2009-12-25T01:54:00.003-05:00

Nearly two thousand years ago in an obscure village, a child was born of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village where He worked as a carpenter until he was thirty. Then for three years He became an itinerant preacher.

This Man never went to college or seminary. He never wrote a book. He never held a public office. He never had a family nor owned a home. He never put His foot inside a big city nor traveled even 200 miles from His birthplace. And though he never did any of the things that usually accompany greatness, throngs of people followed Him. He had no credentials but Himself.

While He was still young, the tide of public opinion turned against Him. His followers ran away. He was turned over to his enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was sentenced to death on a cross between two thieves. While He was dying, His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth--the simple coat He had worn. His body was laid in a borrowed grave provided by a compassionate friend.

But three days later this Man arose from the dead--living proof that He was, as He had claimed, the Savior whom God had sent, the Incarnate Son of God.

Nineteen centuries have come and gone and today the risen Lord Jesus Christ is the central figure of the human race. On our calendars His birth divides history in two eras. One day of every week is set aside in remembrance of Him. And our two most important holidays celebrate His birth and resurrection. On church steeples around the world His cross has become the symbol of victory over sin and death.

This one Man's life has furnished the theme for more songs, books, poems and paintings than any other person or event in history. Thousands of colleges, hospitals, orphanages and other institutions have been founded in honor of this One who gave His life for us.

All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the governments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned have not changed the course of history as much as this One Solitary Life.

Over the centuries millions have found a new life of forgiveness from sins and peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Today He offers this life to all who will believe in Him. "I am the way, the truth, and the life," Jesus said, "no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me." "He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life"

- Dr. James Allen Francis

Merry Christmas everyone. My prayer for you is that you use this and every opportunity to find the significant life only possible by recognizing the Lordship of Jesus Christ. God bless you.

I Wonder If He Cried

2009-12-22T20:47:00.005-05:00

It's normal that babies cry when they are born. They are wet, cold, frightened by the birthing, hungry for mama, or maybe peeved at getting slapped on the rump. Thus they cry. Rightly so, since life will bring seasons of rain, cold, discomforting pressure, emptiness and even more slaps on the rump. Thus we cry.

I wonder though, I just wonder, did Jesus cry when He was born? And if He did was it for normal reasons? For it is without doubt that He was nothing normal. His birth was normal in appearance and process, but extraordinary in meaning. God was born. As clumsy as such a saying may seem it is nonetheless true. The baby born to Mary and Joseph was God in the flesh. Again I say, this was far from normal.

Did he cry because He came into a fallen world? A world rightly made yet corrupted and polluted by sin.

Was He shocked at the sensation of temporalness, each moment in the now affronting His memory of timelessness?

Did He weep already at our unbelief? For only pagans, shepherds and barn animals were there to welcome Him.

Was He discomfited at the shadow of the cross? Was there any understanding of the price He would pay to be obedient to God, and save us from sin?

Well the Bible is silent on baby Jesus having these thoughts and emotional responses. But it speaks clearly that He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. We celebrate His birth only in light of his death. We recognize His coming down only because He was lifted up. Whatever suffering He endured and exposed at birth pales in comparison to what He suffered in his death.

He wept for Jerusalem - Matthew 23:37

He wept because of unbelief - John 11:35

He wept in the Garden as he prayed. - Hebrews 5:7

But the cry that was most significant was on Calvary, when He died so that we may live. - Luke 23:46

Don't Try Jesus

2009-12-02T08:09:00.003-05:00

Try Jesus. Here is yet another spiritualized, canned, automated Christian saying that sounds good but is actually garbage. It is usually said as an invitation to Christianity. "You may have tried this and that and such, now try Jesus." Or "Try Jesus and see if He won't do this and that and such." Once again good intentions have created a slippery slope of confusion.

Trust Jesus, don't try Him. He is not another anything. He is in a class all by Himself. Incomparable, indisputable and undeniably Lord. He earned the right to be Lord and as Lord he deserves your loyalty not your trial. In fact, He is Lord because He's already been tried. Judged by an unlawful court, condemned for a crime He did not commit and hung on a cross for our trespasses. But He rose from the grave with all power. That's a historical fact that demands loyalty, not another trial.

Trying Jesus is a setup for failure. Whatever criteria for a successful 'trial' that a person may have, becomes very problematic in the face of persecution and tribulation. If you 'Try Jesus' and sickness comes, or death in your family, or famine and such you may find yourself thinking that Jesus doesn't work. Countless people have given up there walk with Christ because they believed the Lord failed them. That he did not do what they thought He should do.

That's why trust is the only way to serve. It is when you walk by faith that Christ shows Himself mighty. It is through trust that you have confidence about life. Trusting Him is the only way to take Him at his word. Lordship makes life make sense.

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while,
"He who is coming will come and will not delay.
But my righteous one will live by faith.
And if he shrinks back,
I will not be pleased with him." - - Hebrews 10:35-38

Thanks and Thankfulness

2009-11-27T16:30:00.004-05:00

There is definitely a difference between the two. One is what you do and the other is what you are. It is possible and very common to give thanks without being thankful.

Thanksgiving is commendable, appropriate and pleasant, but gratefulness is better. Thanks is an action but thankfulness is an attitude. Thanks can be made from the heart but it can also be made with the lips only. Gratefulness will always be evidenced through a persons actions, words and thoughts.

It is about Character. Just as a person can give without being generous, or smile without being happy, or go to church without being spiritual, one can give thanks without being grateful. All point actions are good but nothing like the lasting goodness of character.

The difference is really seen when situations are not conducive to giving thanks. It is easy to give thanks in a thanksgiving atmosphere. Gratefulness, however, shines brightest when situations are unpleasant or even problematic. To be thankful when your hurting, grateful in tribulation, or positive through problems is evidence of great character.

Like all things character, thankfulness is a choice. We have the power and privilege to decide what character we will embrace. We can reject anger and embrace peace. We can reject despondence and embrace hope. We can reject selfishness and embrace sacrifice.

The same for gratitude. Some complain, murmur, sulk, criticize, scoff, demean, bemoan and grieve. They do so because of a choice based on poor values. The consequence is an unpleasant, witheringly bitter attitude of ungratefulness. Conversely, if one chooses to be grateful, even when life calls for complaints, that person exudes so kind, positive and encouraging attributes.

This is why Paul says that the Spirit-filled person is "Thankful for all things in Christ Jesus (Eph. 5:19)."

It is the season of giving thanks, but we must be people of gratefulness.

Growing Up

2009-11-08T01:09:00.000-05:00

There is a great lesson on maturity from the life of David.

There were two men who levied great insults against the psalmist: Nabal and Shimei.
Nabal’s insult came when David was hiding from Saul. He slanderously denied help to David and his men though they watched over his shepherds for the year. It was a disrespectful, inconsiderate offense from a crass and base individual. To not help was a cultural wound, but to speak evil of good added salt to the wound. David reacted by mounting up with his men and riding to Nabal’s house with intent to slaughter all the men.

Shemei’s insult came when David ran from Absolam, who led a semi-successful coup against the throne. Shemei was a descendant of Saul, so he’d been holding a grudge for over twenty years. When he saw David and his men walking dejectedly from Jerusalem, he laughed, called names and even threw rocks at the man of God. David did not retaliate or allow his captain to kill him. Instead David said that perhaps God sent Shemei to insult him.

How did we get such a difference in reaction? Why did David go from antagonist to pacifist? What changed a hot-headed war machine into a patient, considerate and forgiving man of peace?

The answer my friends is Life. Life changed David from a rash avenger to a patient sufferer. Life humbled, changed and matured the Man after God’s own heart. The years from Nabal to Shemei included his sin with Bathsheeba, the rape of his daughter Tamar, the murder of his son Amnon and the rebellion of Absalom. These things would change anyone.

Life is producing a kinder, more thoughtful, less offended David Wilson. And I’m determined to learn the lessons without the loss. What is life producing in you?

Dealing

2009-11-05T22:08:00.007-05:00

The Psalmist said, "Oh that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest (Ps. 55:6)."

Wishful thinking, but the fact is you don't have wings so you have to deal. I realize David was speaking poetically about his troubles. People were mistreating him, pressure was heavy on him, and life was uncomfortable. I've been there and you have as well, but if wishes were fishes we'd eat for life. God did not make us to flee or fly but to stand and deal.

Too often we find ourselves fantasizing about fleeing. "I should just quit," "I ought to leave" or "I'm moving my membership." Sometimes we even hope God would step in and stop consequences, cease suffering or make things better. I understand the sentiment, but the relevant and evident truth is God wants us to deal with things.

Look at the statements of our faith and see the endurance element.

- Running the race with patience (Heb.12:1).

- Wrestling against powers (Eph. 6:10-12).

- The fiery trial of faith (I Pet. 1:7).

- Bearing one another's burdens (Gal.6:2).

- The perfecting work of patience (James 1:4).

Don't fly away like a bird, deal with it. Bear up. Go through it. Suffer it to be so. Persevere. Endure. Overcome. Take your shots. In the end, you will be better having gone through than if you ran like a coward. We should all focus more on what we are going to more than what we are going through.

By the way David, if you did have wings, where would you fly to? Trouble will find you wherever you go. In the desert you'd run out of water. In the mountains you'd get cold at night. Best to stay in Jerusalem where God put you and deal with it.

Hope up.

Disciples of Dayton

2009-11-03T15:46:00.014-05:00

A few weeks back I returned to Dayton, Ohio to preach for the Northwest Church of Christ in their fall meeting. My friend and brother Dr. Cleavon Matthews is the very capable Minister there.

I love going to Dayton. The hospitality and appreciation is overwhelming. Golf with Cleavon and Bro. Pediford was wonderful and educational. I even got to sit down at Papadeux with John Edmerson. Or I should say, sat down with John at Papadeux’s. I really, really love that restaurant. J

Dinner by Christy Matthews was exceptional. One word says it all – Strawberry Butter. Hm hm good! Found out that when Christy writes letters for the church, she sometimes writes Church of Christy. Imagine that! Going to hell for a typo.

I commend the audience for their patience and support through a not so celebrated subject – Stewardship. That is a hard subject for many, but Dayton took it, nodded their heads and vowed to do better. Curtis Williamson did an excellent job on the singing. May God bless that church and inspire them to fulfill their vision.

Blogshot

2009-10-28T12:35:00.005-04:00

"Don't talk about it. Be about it."

For a dream comes with much business, and a fool’s voice with many words. - Ecclesiastes 5:3

Change

2009-10-23T09:26:00.007-04:00

"Well go ahead and die then!" (Said jokingly to a young lady who declared that she can't take change.)

Change must come. Sometimes uncomfortable, often foreseeable, but always inevitable. We live in a changing, transitioning, conforming, alterable reality. In fact we are changing as we speak. The you that started reading this article is different from the you that is reading and thinking about change right now. Someone once said, "We are not so much human beings as much as human becomings." For we are always in flux, ever developing into something other.

Change should be expected.

Wisdom produces enlightened foresight, while folly promotes blind ignorance. It is the wiseman who foresees change and the fool who is caught unawares. Businessmen who see market trends, inventors who foresee new applications of scientific fundamentals or farmers who can taste the changing of the seasons are all those who expect change. In like manner, we all should expect things to change. We must never be foolish enough to believe that things stay the same.

Change should be embraced.

Some try their best to resist change. They frustrate themselves by trying to hold on to the way things were. We often find comfort in homeostasis. It is familiar, it is safe, it is predictable, but it is a lie. You and things are changing, either for the good or the bad. Nothing stays the same. The inevitability of change calls for acceptance not resistance. The only way to stop change is to stop time. The best option is to embrace it.

Change should be enhanced.

Since change is coming, we then need to decide what that change will be. While we have no power to stop change we certainly are given power over how we are changed. You cannot stop the year from turning, but you can determine to not be in the same place when the year turns around. You cannot stop the sun from setting but you can make sure that it does not set on your anger. You cannot change the atmosphere from stormy to pleasant, but you can determine your attitude and actions in the storm.

Change is not the enemy but the arena in which we reveal the gift of God. We must have the right attitude about transitions to bring forth sweet fruit in due season.

“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;

wisdom and power are his.

He changes times and seasons;

he sets up kings and deposes them.

He gives wisdom to the wise

and knowledge to the discerning.

He reveals deep and hidden things;

he knows what lies in darkness,

and light dwells with him.

-- Daniel 2:19-22

God Sees

2009-09-16T14:59:00.006-04:00

That’s one of His names in Hebrew. Jehovah-Roi. It was articulated by Hagar after God miraculously provided water for her and her son Ishmael. The name celebrates a very comforting and encouraging aspect of the character of God. He Sees.

"But the Eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love."
Psalm 33:18 NIV

God sees my adversity – It is a comfort to know that when I suffer, God sees. A loving, benevolent Father watching over His child will move in response to danger. So often we feel that no one sees or cares about our troubles. That’s not true; God sees, knows and understands our trouble. This is why His Word is so important. By it He guides, comforts, restores and strengthens.

God sees my iniquity – It is convicting to know that when I sin, God sees. You can walk in the darkest night, wearing all black clinging to the shadow, and still God sees. In the closet, in the basement with the lights off, God sees. He see even what is on our hearts. This is not meant to cause paranoia, but one who reverences God can’t help but feel a great, burning desire to do right in His sight.

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him." 2 Chronicles 16:9 NKJV

God sees my destiny – It is compelling to know that when I cannot, God sees. As he exists outside of the sphere of time, His perspective is timeless. He sees then, now and after, all at once. He knows the end at the beginning. Such vision is invaluable to the plans for my life. I cannot make the right decisions, choose the right path or endure the right processes without God’s perspective. His higher vision lets me know through His Word that, humble is the way, the meek inherit the earth and love conquers all. His vision reveals that, sin destroys a nation, tribulation worketh patience and good overcomes evil. What I need is faith. Trust to do as He say, even when it doesn’t make sense to me. “We walk by faith and not by sight,” can only be understood in the light of God’s perspective.

"The Eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth."
Psalm 34:15-16 NKJV

Hallelujah for Hopewell

2009-09-15T16:30:00.010-04:00

The Arlington Church of Christ in Hopewell, Virginia is a great group of Christians. It was our pleasure to visit and preach for their 62^nd Anniversary Revival. They love God’s Word, His people and good times. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

Leruna Gilbert and his beautiful and charming wife, Leah, are doing an awesome job in serving that church and community.We have known this couple for years and are thrilled at their relationship and effectiveness with Hopewell. Leruna is an awesome singer as well. He sounds like Peabo.

Arlington Road has a great history. 62 years ago, a tent-meeting was held across the street from a Baptist church. The preacher, Wilton Cook, was convicted and told his congregation, “Anybody who wants to go to heaven, come with me across the street to the tent.”

150 came with him in obedience to the Gospel and thus began the Arlington Road Church of Christ. Awesome!

Some of the members of that original group were there for the Anniversary. Excellent!

Thanks again Hopewell and may God continue to bless you.

Cheerful or delirious? You decide.

2009-09-08T18:01:00.003-04:00

I can't help but wonder how much was in the envelope.

Blessed

2009-09-07T09:15:00.005-04:00

A favorite word among the faithful. Used for babies, promotions, unexpected gifts and sneezes. The Bible shows a different bend on blessings however. It shows that blessedness is not so much the material gain or successful situation but rather the conforming and perfecting of the character.

"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me (Matt. 5:11)."

"Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him (Jam. 1:12)."

"But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened (I Pet. 3:14)."

"Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man (Lk. 6:22)."

"If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you (I pet. 4:14)."

This helps us to comprehend our struggles. We are not being forgotten or forsaken when trouble comes, we are being blessed. We are not being neglected when isolated, we are being blessed to experience the Christ-life. Trials and tribulation are not punishments, they are opportunities. When the world frowns at you God is smiling on you.

Say not "I'm to blessed to be stressed" but rather "I am being blessed through my stress."

As I close this blog, I say with deep meaning and solemn respect - May God bless you.

Stockholm

2009-08-31T11:16:00.013-04:00

The recent rescue of Jaycee Dugard after 18 years of captivity touched my heart and provoked my spiritual mind. Jaycee was kidnapped at age 11, kept in a tent in a backyard, raped and abused for 18 years, and even had two children by the male captor.

What is bizarre is that she bonded with her tormentors. She helped run a business and did not take advantage of the opportunities to escape. This is called Stockholm syndrome. It is a psychological shift that takes place when a captive is first threatened then shown acts of kindness by the captors. The result is that the victim identifies with and defends those who are actually abusing them.

While shocking and incredulous at first, it occurs to me that this is a constant condition in the Spiritual realm. We once served sin but now we have been redeemed. Our old master kept us in slavery, paying us slave wages. Now, under a new Master, we serve righteousness and receive life everlasting. For some odd reason, we still go and visit that old master and work in the field we prayed to be delivered from.

Is it Stockholm or just plain Stupid?

Whatever it is we need to stop it and be free. Jaycee will need a lot of intensive counseling to convince her of the crime against her and the salvation she now has. In like manner the penitent believer must be reminded repeatedly of the undone condition of the sinner and the great worth of his salvation.

“What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life inChrist Jesus our Lord (Rom 6:1-23).”

Amazing Grace!!!

Blogshot

2009-08-26T14:46:00.004-04:00

God will provide!! - if only God would provide while He provides.

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Phillipians 4:19

Conversation

2009-08-24T16:19:00.004-04:00

There’s more to a conversation than just talking. The word itself points to alteration or change. Conversation comes from the Latin – conversari, meaning abide with and convertere, meaning to turn around. So then, in a conversation you are abiding with and being turned around (to some degree) by who you are talking with.

Scripture says, “Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him (Proverbs. 26:4).” “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Corinthians 15:33).” It becomes clear etymologically and practically that we must be careful of our words and who we share them with.

Arguing with a fool makes you a fool. We know this to be true by the many childish discussions (or should I say ‘disgustions’) that we have witnessed or participated in. Tension rises, pressure builds, voices get raised and the wrong words are said. All for naught because it accomplished nothing positive.

To argue with a fool you have to meet him at his level. This means that you have to climb down into the ‘fool pit’ with him. The same is true for all unworthy conversation. The real results, after all the words and passions have passed, is that you have become that which you so despised.

It is about motive and value. If you know a person to be argumentive keep it simple. Or if the subject is not so important, brush it off. Wise men hold their peace but a fool answers every challenge. We don’t have to correct every mistake, answer every critique, silence every rumor, disprove every lie or confront every insult. The higher you rise the more things are beneath you.

By the way, it tickles my soul when someone tries to bait me into an argument and I reply, “Oh really, that’s awesome.” Or “Wow, I never looked at it like that before.” I send them merrily on their way while I save time and energy. If someone genuinely has a point or needs fruitful contention, that’s one thing. But if they are out to belittle, or strut their stuff, they can take center stage elsewhere.

I wonder if this principle holds true in the positive. If arguing with a fool makes me a fool, and evil communication corrupts good morals, then what happens when I speak with the wise and good. Abiding with and being turned around by wise men sounds like a good personal growth plan.

Wow! Maybe that’s why we all need to pray more.

Lyrics-

2009-07-29T11:10:00.006-04:00

I built another temple to a stranger

I gave away my heart to the rushing wind

I set my course to run right into danger

I sought the company of fools instead of friends

You know I've been unfaithful

With lovers in lines

While you're turning over tables

With the rage of a jealous kind

I chose the gallows to the aisle

Thought that love would never find

Hanging ropes will never keep you

And your love of a jealous kind

-Jars of Clay

"Love of a Jealous Kind"

R.I.P.?

2009-07-20T16:00:00.005-04:00

I mean no disrespect. In fact, I held my peace while emotions were high. But I wonder about some of our responses to the recent wave of celebrity deaths.

R. I. P.

Doesn't that mean 'Rest In Peace'? Doesn't this imply peaceful rest in preperation for the judgement? Is this not a theological refrence to paradaisical bliss or a "Bossom of Abraham " type situation?

If so, then can one live any way they want, die and then rest in peace? I don't think so.

By faith, I would have to say absolutely not.

Look, I loved Michael's music too. Yes he was a musical icon (same term for idol in theology). Yes he was the greatest entertainer in history. Does that merit peaceful rest? Sorry but no.

Jesus says, "No man can come to the Father but by me (I John 14:6). "

It may be a hard truth but it is truth nonetheless. God is not impressed by what impresses the world. When Mike, Elvis, Kennedy, Biggie, Tupac or whoever stands before the throne, the Judge will not ask for autographs. You can't please heaven by being famous, talented or well loved. Lordship is a serious, as a matter of fact, eternally consequential issue.

Let's not call it like we see it, let's call it like God says it.

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2009-07-15T13:44:00.004-04:00

Our fatigue is often caused not by work, but by worry, frustration and resentment.

Dale Carnegie

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

The Transcendant Path

2009-07-08T11:11:00.005-04:00

"Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure (I John 3:2-3)."

It is our blessed hope that when Jesus returns we shall see Him and then become like Him. What an awesome reward for the faithful. John encourages the faith by reminding them of that great future moment juxtaposed against their current discomforted situation.

In every transcendent path there is a 'now' of present struggle and a 'then' of unequalled triumph. Now - the earthly struggle. Then - the heavenly reward. Now - confusion, frustration and exhaustion. Then - contentment, consolation and fullness. Now - momentary doubt and tendency to sin. Then - eternal existence in the absolutely perfect presence of God.

What a joy that will be!

It's the middle that we struggle with. The journey from the bothersome now to the triumphant then is filled with tests, challenges, obstacles, mishaps, distractions, disappointments and many other woes. It can become so intense at times that you are often tempted to get off of the transcendent path. This is why we all need hope?

Hope is the fuel of the soul that produces endurance and perseverance. Hope can make you press on even under great pressure. It creates courage in the shadow of the dragon. Hope says you can when all else says give up. Hope says it's worth it when others call you crazy. Hope, as the Bible says, "Maketh not ashamed."

John says that keeping our mind fixed on what we shall become creates hope, which in turn creates faithfulness to the path, which will in turn bring us to the end results. Keep looking at what God shows you so you keep walking on the path he laid out for you.

"If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream." - Martin Luther King Jr.

Next...

2009-07-07T19:18:00.004-04:00

Preaching took me to the superstate of Texas near the great city of Houston. Midway City is the home of the Antioch Church of Christ. And let me tell you, if you cant preach in Antioch, you need to hear another calling. We had a great time celebrating their homecoming.

Minister Howard Watson and his family made sure that I lacked for nothing. The members finally warmed up to me after they forgot about Bernard (inside story). We had a ball. When the Bible says that they "killed the fatted calf", I literally know what that means now. They barbecued a fresh calf and it was the absolute best Brisket I've ever had in my young life.

I look forward to the great things God will do through that congregation as they follow their great leader.

And Then…

2009-07-07T18:59:00.006-04:00

Next it was my pleasure to preach for the Country Club Drive Church of Christ in Fayetteville, N.C. http://www.countryclubchurchofchrist.com/ That church is doing a great job and is filled with very loving and receptive members. We challenged them each night from the theme, “Of Him, By Him and Through Him”. They took excellent care of Cathi and I.

It was good getting together with Brother and Sister Mason. We’ve been friends ever since Gospel Quality (SWCC singing group) days with Gabby, their daughter. They are wonderful people. Bro. Mason always has some quick but gentle witticism percolating in his mind, while Sis. Mason has a smile that can make the rain stop. We had a great time with them, the Whites the Jeeters and many others who opened their homes or took us out to eat.

Thanks Fayetteville

2009-07-01T12:53:00.004-04:00

May brought me to the great city of Pasedena in California. It was my joy to preach for the saints of the North Pasedena Church of Christ. Brother Lundy has been the preacher there for well over 35 years. I was treated well and encouraged during the preaching. I got a lotta friends in Cali. It was real good to see Fate, Robert, Chris, Chris, Kevin, Vincent and the whole crew. Rudy didn't show cause he still suspicious about Tupak I guess.

Orlander Thomas is the Assistant there and he is really growing in the Lord. I am excited about what God is doing with him. He really struggled in golf but hey, who doesn't.

Thanks North Pasadena. May our work together continue to gain growth in God.

2009-07-01T12:39:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time

Shouldn't have left you

Without a nice word to step to....

Busy Busy Busy is the name of this year. But I popped in to say Happy Birthday to me. Gifts can be sent to the Church care of David Wilson. Or you can just holla in the comment box.

I thank God for His great blessings. He has given me a family that adores me, a loving congregation and an effective purpose.

If it were not for Him there would be no us.

God bless you.

Jim Clingman

2009-05-07T21:10:00.004-04:00

We were thouroughly inspired and encouraged by Brother James during our Stewardship Workshop last month. With his special blend of historical proofs, political expertise and Scriptural truths, Jim lifted our hearts and pointed in the direction of economic relevance.

Jim's message is this - Money is not the same as wealth. We need to see ourselves as producers more than consumers to truly experience economic freedom. We should be creating, organizing and supporting our own businesses rather than whoring ourselves out for the next new thing.

Jim is well known and well loved because of his economic empowerment workshops. His books, commentaries, broadcasts and such like are really relevant for our times and situations. I hope the church starts to recognize him as a great resource for ministry.

Check out his website for articles and info on his great work.

http://www.blackonomics.com/

Thank you so much, Brother Wilson. I truly appreciate your support and confidence. I am blessed to know you and the King's Church congregation. Peace, love, and blessings. Jim

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2009-04-26T23:44:00.002-04:00

"Don't procrastinate. Yesterday used to be the distant future too." -- David Wilson

"The night cometh when no man can work" -- Jesus Christ

Savior

2009-04-12T01:01:00.012-04:00

He saved a marriage feast that ran out of wine.

He saved a father's son from a feverish death.

He saved a prostrate man miserable from 38 years of bedridden sickness.

He saved a crowd of thousands from their lack of provisions.

He saved our hopes and dreams by walking on water.

He saved a man from the complete blackness of birth blindness.

He saved the faith of the disciples by raising Lazarus from the grave.

He saved our souls by dying on the cross.

No wonder we call him - Savior

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2009-03-31T11:13:00.003-04:00

"A system is in equilibrium when the forces constituting it are arranged in such a way as to compensate each other, like the two weights pulling at the arms of a pair of scales."

-Rudolf Arnheim

"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

-The Apostle Paul

Joy

2009-03-25T14:55:00.006-04:00

Joy. There’s nothing like it. It’s the sweetest of all emotions. Highest of the high. Love can be tough, sadness has its depth, anger is hot, even fear has its excitement; but nothing is like joy.

Joy. Often inexpressible, sometimes inconceivable but always incomparable. Joy is that heavenly feeling. Praise comes with it. Hope waits on it. Sadness flees from it. And love labors till it.

Joy. It’s the holla of Hallelujah, the life of the party and the shout of worship. It looks like a smile, sounds like a laugh and smells like fried chicken (or maybe fresh baked cookies).

The Greek word for joy is Xara (Chara). It is derived from another beautiful word Xaris (Charis), which means grace. Joy is therefore, according to Scripture, the state of gladness resulting from the gift of salvation through Christ.

Joy is more than common happiness. Hap means chance occurrence or events. Happiness is based on happenings, or happenstance which is therefore haphazard at best. The grace of God is given through the once and for all time event of Calvary. As our joy is tied to an eternal, immutable event, then we ought to as Paul says, Rejoice always.

Once again it is a matter of focus. If you look to chance occurrences for emotional highs, you will inevitably be disappointed, deflated or depressed. But if the work of God through Jesus Christ is the source of your joy, then you will never be ashamed. As always, we get to choose our emotional state by choosing what we focus on.

This is the only way one can -
Rejoice when persecuted (Mat. 5:12).
Rejoice in hope (Rom 5:2).
Count it all joy in temptation (Jam 1:2).
Rejoice evermore (I Thess. 5:16).
Rejoice in Suffering (I Pet. 4:13).

Get your mind right by getting your sight right.

Hope this hopes you.

Eyelight

2009-03-19T22:41:00.006-04:00

Greed. It seems like it has made a comeback recently, but in reality, it has never gone away. Avarice, lust, covetousness has been the singular cause of some of history’s greatest misses. From Eve looking at the forbidden fruit, to David looking at Bathsheba taking a bath. From Ahab weeping for Nabioth’s vineyard, to Judas weeping because he sold the Lord. Greed turned Lot’s wife to salt, gave Merriam leprosy, sent Joseph to jail, got Achan and family stoned and buried Korah and associates.

While that may be ancient history, greed and covetousness has been foremost in man’s destruction until this very day. Madoff and IGA are nothing new. Whenever you hear of oppression, slavery, murder, rape, adultery and such, greed has overcome someone’s heart and led them down the path of destruction.

Jesus says this of greed, “The Light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single (healthy or clear), thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore thy light be darkness how great is that darkness (Matt. 6:22-23).”

The meaning of this becomes clearer when you see the verses before it “Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth…., For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” And then the verses after, “No man can serve two masters…, You cannot serve God and mammon.”
What the Lord is revealing to His followers is the pollution of greed and its corruptive power over the heart. As the eye is the source of light (Light = knowledge and truth), then the eyes must be kept clear. If not then it fills the body with darkness (Absence of light = wickedness and ignorance). Our souls either suffer from lack of light or flourish in the abundance of light. We must not let the lust for treasure and the service of mammon pollute our purpose.

Keep your eye focused on light and make sure that nothing blocks that focus and Light will fill your soul. Don’t let your soul become darkened by greed.

Burlington North Carolina

2009-03-19T08:02:00.005-04:00

A church is growing to greatness in Burlington. A great people are arising to do great things in that community. It was my pleasure to preach at the Community Church of Christ last week. We had a great time of teaching and rejoicing over the Word. The people were hospitable, supportive and receptive. We had a great time .

I'm proud to claim the minister, Darryl Cannady, and his wife Rita, as my co-labourer cousins. Concientious and considerate, they took great care of me. With their love for God's Word and His people, we look for great things from Burlington. God bless!

A bonus blessing was seeing my friends from Durham. That meant golf of course. I stunk big time the first day, but did better the next. Jamie Foxx finally got his revenge. http://expalot.blogspot.com/2008/01/southside-coc-in-durham-nc.html Don't get too comfortable Johnny, Spring is coming real soon.

Up North at Northside

2009-02-28T19:46:00.006-05:00

The Northside Church of Christ, in Rochester, New York, is a great place to preach indeed. I had a splendid time preaching for their Winter Gospel Meeting. The hospitality, kindness and acceptance was only outdone by their readiness to hear the Word. They love to be taught the Word, and I love teaching it.

Brother Walker, the Minister of this great work, was a gracious and conscientious host. I look forward to our fellowship continuing to blossom. He has an awesome task with a historical church. Their location could only be called a church campus. The church sits next to their Senior Assisted Nursing Home, which sits next to their School. They are representing Christ well. I was thrilled to hear him talk about a future greater than their great past. That’s visionary talk.

Northside has one of the most attractive buildings I’ve ever preached in.

Special thanks to Joan and Brother Rustin for name dropping. Commendations to all the cooks and cake bakers. You shouldn’t have. No really. You shouldn’t have. Thanks to Brandon for the pix.

Funny Fact - . When people in Rochester talk about us in the city, they call us New York. A brother said “Ive been in Rochester all my life but I’ve never been to New York.” Tripped me out.

Hopefully, our time together will help them to not be so afraid of a visit to the Big City.

Psalm 63 - The Message

2009-02-27T21:08:00.004-05:00

God—you're my God! I can't get enough of you!
I've worked up such hunger and thirst for God,
traveling across dry and weary deserts.
So here I am in the place of worship,
eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory.
In your generous love I am really living at last!
My lips brim praises like fountains.
I bless you every time I take a breath;
My arms wave like banners of praise to you.

I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy;
I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises!
If I'm sleepless at midnight,
I spend the hours in grateful reflection.
Because you've always stood up for me,
I'm free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life,
and you hold me steady as a post.

Those who are out to get me are marked for doom,
marked for death, bound for hell.
They'll die violent deaths;
jackals will tear them limb from limb.
But the king is glad in God;
his true friends spread the joy,
While small-minded gossips
are gagged for good.

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2009-02-25T14:07:00.003-05:00

“It takes more courage to reveal insecurities than to hide them, more strength to relate to people than to dominate them, more 'manhood' to abide by thought-out principles rather than blind reflex. Toughness is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles and an immature mind.”

Alex Karras

"If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small (Prov. 24:10)."

Should there be a Black History Month?

2009-02-20T13:03:00.002-05:00

Black History Month began as Black History Week in 1925. Instituted by educator and historian, Carter G. Woodson, it celebrated the accomplishments and achievements of African-Americans. it was celebrated during the second week of February, to coincide with Fredrick Douglass' and Lincoln's birthday. In 1976, Black History Week became Black History Month.

Some have put forth that it should not be recognized or celebrated. Believe me when I tell you that this is a hotly debated topic. Surprisingly, even among Blacks. I was shocked to hear Morgan Freeman say it ought to be abolished!!! Then when I heard his reasoning, I became thoughtful. He had a good point.

What do you think? I would like to know what my spiritually minded readers have to say. Chime in. Let's hear some thought provoking, purposeful, enlightening pros and cons.

Thanks Dr. Maxwell

2009-02-18T14:48:00.002-05:00

We had a great time of celebration, recognition, education and inspiration this past weekend. Our Black History Program was a solid success, thank God.

Jamilla Lyiscott did her poetical spoken word thing with her characteristic relevance, cultural experience and intellectual excellence. She’s one of the best in the business. Thanks sis.

Then we saw a dramatic soliloquy by Jeremy Manzay, (aka – J. Kyle, aka – the dude that Denzil Washington threw water on and who later was jacked up against the window and arrested for selling heroine out of the cleaners in “American Gangster.”) http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=78095680 He helped us think about the cultural clash within an individual embracing Christo-centricity over ethno-centricity.

And then Dr. James Maxwell brought the key-note address. He is Minister Emeritus at the Roswell Avenue Church of Christ in Kansas City, Kansas and Vice President for Institutional Expansion at Soutwestern Christian College. His subject was the History of the Black Church. He helped us see the connection from Scripture, through the Renaissance, Slavery and the Reformation movement till now. We went from the Ethiopian Eunuch to Marshall Keeble and G. P. Bowser. Excellent!! His book, “Don’t Know Much about Church History” is a great resource.

On the next day, we had a discussion on the Charismatic Movement. Dr. Maxwell is one of the Brotherhood’s best apologists, and he showed it on Saturday afternoon. For over 2 ½ hours he presented the truth and answered questions concerning the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Miraculous Gifts, Prophetic Word and such like. It was an awesome revelation from the Word of God. A true “Spirit-filled time”.

Amen and Amen

Go to http://www.jamesomaxwell.com/index.htm for more info on Brother Maxwell and a book display.

I Heard That Mr. President!!!

2009-01-27T06:03:00.007-05:00

President Barak Obama said it well. I was one of the millions who watched, (from a hotel room), the swearing in of the 44th President of the United States of America. This is an excerpt from a very strong, direct and ambitions speech.

"Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America: They will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."

My favorite line so far, "Your people will judge you for what you build not for what you destroy."

Go Obama! Our Prayers are with you. "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God's mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Saviour, for he wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth (II Tim. 2:1-3)."

There are some really moving pictures at this site! Check it -- http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/01/the_inauguration_of_president.html

The Pointe!!!

2009-01-08T08:55:00.003-05:00

I must give an Expalot shoutout to the Central Pointe Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas. We had an excellent time with the saints there during the R.B. Dulin Anniversary Gospel Meeting in December. It was a time of inspirational praise, precious memories and focus on the Word of God. I came to uplift and I got uplifted.

Rodney, Shalonda, Jackie, Harold and the crew have a special place in my heart. (In fact, if my calendar calculations are right, baby Roman is a New Yorker.) I love them.

God is blessing that congregation abundantly and I am glad to see it. Thank God for their hospitality, appreciation, personality and love for God.

Time Mastery

2009-01-01T23:34:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!!

May God bless you and yours richly this year. May this entire year be a pilgrimage of purpose as you accomplish your God given destiny.

The New Year is a time to consider time. You and I are reminded that time is portioned, precious and passing.

Portioned in that you are given an allotment. Your days are numbered.

Precious in that it cannot be replaced. It is a gift of God that must not be wasted. You can earn money, or replace lost possessions, but if time is wasted you cannot get it back.

Passing in that time waits for no man.

What then should we do with the time that we have? The answer is Mastery. That's the gold level label for management or stewardship. It is the same with money and talent. God gives these gifts for us to faithfully use them. He is the source and we are the managers of His resource. If we manage it faithfully He calls us master or ruler . "You have been faithful over a few, I will make you ruler over many."

Let me speak plainly and practically. Don't let time get a hold of you. Instead you should get a hold of time. You should work it, rather than it working you. You are the boss, controller, directer, steward and manager. Work it well and God will grant you mastery. That's when it all starts to pay off.

Desist and resist the chaos and frustration of procrastination. Repent from the laziness and slothfulness that produces wastefulness. Forsake the language of should've, would've and could've and embrace the reality of doing it and done.

Get busy and show God's glory through good stewardship of His great gift of time.

"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Eph. 5:15-16)."

The Manger’s Meaning

2008-12-17T00:02:00.004-05:00

This is the time of year when a lot of emphasis is placed on Jesus as a baby in the manger. I’m not complaining at all, but I know that there is much more to Jesus’ coming than a birthday celebration and the nativity scene.

He was born to have a body. Jesus was God in the flesh. John says, that the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us (Jn. 1:14). The body gave us a lasting living example of true righteousness. We can walk and talk like Him only because he came down here from up there.

He had a body to have blood. It’s the blood that washes away all iniquity. In fact, the blood is essential to our cleansing and covenant. The blood of Jesus is literally the blood of God. Perfect, powerful and perpetual, His blood remains effective. That is why it is still strong to save this sinful world.

He had blood so that He could die. It wasn’t the birth that saved us. It was His death. He took our guilt and punishment so that we could have His innocence and life. He is the repentant sinner’s divine substitution. This would not have worked had He come down with His godly substance.

This is the real meaning of the manger. He was and is God’s gift to man. Not to be ritualized but reverenced. Christmas is nice, but Christianity is the real deal.

2008-12-16T23:20:00.003-05:00

Lord I lift your name on high.

Lord I love to sing your praises.

I'm so glad you're in my life.

I'm so glad you came to save us.

You came from heaven to earth

to show the way.

From the earth to the cross

my debt to pay.

From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky.

Lord I lift your name on high.

- Lincoln Brewster

Crushed for Stuff

2008-12-04T07:34:00.003-05:00

Black Friday, huge crowds, discount prices, locked doors; the perfect storm. Our thoughts and prayers go out for the family of Jdimytal Damour ,in his shockingly tragic death. Damour was trampled to death beneath the rush of a crowd. Had they been fleeing a catastrophe or some terrifying event, then perhaps his death would’ve made some sense. This crowd was running for a sale. They were infused with the ‘stuff drive’. This 34 year old lost his life because of 50% off.

It’s a sign of the times. This tragedy is actually characteristic of our culture. Maybe not as obvious. Maybe not so ‘newsworthy’. But lives are often destroyed because of the ‘stuff-drive’.
In my ministry history I’ve seen heartbreaking evidences. Couples on the verge of divorce because of separate finances. A single mother ignoring an eviction notice so she could get a new weave. Economic enslavement, wanton wastefulness and purposeless pursuits. And the saga continues.

Don’t get me wrong, there is a place for stuff, but it ought not be our drive. In the right priority all things are beautiful, all things are lovely. God first, family second, church third, community fourth and then self. That’s the right order. That’s the way of peaceful prosperity. Any other way becomes tragic.

Eventually or evidently, subtly or obviously the All-Wise makes His point – “ And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth (Luke 12:15)”

We should master money and things rather than letting money and things master us.

I wonder if the store closed after Damour died. Even more, I wonder if those who stepped on him kept on shopping.

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2008-11-29T20:27:00.005-05:00

Starbucks, Red Bull and Nodoze.

Everybody's doing there best to stay up, but all I wanna do is get down.

"And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! For then would I fly away, and be at rest." Psalm 55:6

Growing Gratefulness

2008-11-28T22:50:00.007-05:00

God’s grace is unmerited, undeserved, and unconditional. Simply stated, it is not earned nor can it be repaid. God loves the unlovely, is kind to the coldhearted and saves the wicked sinner. Amazingly, He does this with no contractual agreement of reciprocity, no condition of lasting devotion, and no compulsional proof of repentance. Yet there is something God wants. There is a divine expectancy. Thankfulness.

God does what He does and loves like He loves with a hope, a faith even, that we will be grateful. God desires that we will have the decency, the honorableness, to show appreciation for His person and performance. “Because, although they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were they thankful…(Rom. 1:21).” This complaint is a revelation if viewed conversely. God desires glory and thanksgiving in light of His goodness.

Thankfulness is at first simple but transcends into a lifestyle. One begins with the common decency of telling God thanks. Thank him for life, for joy, for challenges, for mercy, for all things. As you thank God and show gratefulness, honor kicks in. You begin to recognize how inconsistent it is to receive gift after gift with thankfulness from someone that you do not respect or honor. So thankfulness leads to humility which produces devotion and service.

Let me be clear. Be grateful to God for everything. While we do not deserve His gifts, He certainly is worthy of our thanks. The real challenge is to grow your gratefulness to devotion and service. You cannot ever repay God for what He has done, but you can respect Him with your service and honor Him with your lifestyle.

You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:16-17

Be grateful
Be godly

Psalm 23 - the MEOW version

2008-11-13T11:48:00.002-05:00

The Shepherd's Psalm

2008-11-12T15:51:00.006-05:00

You may never have thought nor looked at Psalm 23 in this way, even though we say it over and over again.

The Lord is my Shepherd - That's Relationship!

I shall not want - That's Supply!

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures - That's Rest!

He leadeth me beside the still waters - That's Refreshment!

He restoreth my soul - That's Healing!

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness - That's Guidance!

For His name sake - That's Purpose!

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death - That's Testing!

I will fear no evil - That's Protection!

For Thou art with me - That's Faithfulness!

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me - That's Discipline!

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies - That's Hope!

Thou annointest my head with oil - That's Consecration!

My cup runneth over - That's Abundance!

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life - That's Blessing!

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord - That's Security!

Forever - That's Eternity!

-Jacked

Ahhhh. That was Gooooooood!

2008-11-06T20:06:00.011-05:00

Praise God with me over the blessing of relevance. This past week was a mega-blast of divine favor for the Kings Church of Christ.

It all started with our 5th Annual Acapella Concert. We had 'Majestic Sounds' from Kings, 'New Day' from Harlem, 'The Enchanters' from Newark, 'Redeemed' and 'The Easternaires' from the Metro Area.

The featured groups were 'The Soul Influence' of Houston, Texas and 'The Mighty Men of Valor' from Durham, North Carolina.

Everybody did an excellent job.

Props for the church's advertising efforts. We had a record breaking registration of over 1000 visitors. That translates to 1000 evangelistic opportunities. That's Relevant. That's for real.

That made the Thomas real happy.

And then came Thomas Fitzgerald. A Powerhouse of Passionate Preaching from Forney, Texas. He led us in a sure 'nuff revival. 'He got me all hoped up and whatnot'. We thank God for his ministry. He said he would send me some CD's for the church.

Praise God with me for the success of these events. Many thanks to the great people that made it work right.

For more pix go to http://shokofoto.com/BrklCollege_html/

Abilene, Texas

2008-11-01T15:20:00.003-04:00

The Minda Street congregation is a world class church with a global sized vision. It was my joy to be with them for their Minister's Appreciation and the Revival following. Their warmth, acceptance and appreciation made it a great place to preach. May God bless the Minister, Elders, Deacons and Members of that church.

The minister of this great church is Dr. Tony Roach, the Love Doctor Himself (Righteous Love). Dr. Roach is known across this brotherhood for his "God's Love Bank" studies. He is a prolific writer, effective teacher and great thinker. Every time we talked I was challenged and inspired to grow as a preacher. God has blessed us with Bro. Roach. You can check him out at http://www.godslovebank.com/

Special thanks to the White's for a few good times and old memories.
Shout out to Gerald, Randy and Tony - More Golf and less haircuts. Haha!!

Well Just Tell Us How You Feel Why Don't Ya!!

2008-10-28T00:57:00.003-04:00

Hope he doesn't ride on the same road as my Tahoe!

Kings Church of Christ 5th Annual Acapella Concert

2008-10-25T12:01:00.003-04:00

Tell all your friends in the New York area. Absolutely Free.

The Gospel at Gray Road

2008-10-25T09:53:00.006-04:00

It was my extreme pleasure to serve the Gray Road Church of Christ for their Revival/Gospel Meeting. It is a great joy to deliver the Word to those who rejoice over the Word. Cincinnati, Ohio holds a special place in my heart because of the Minister Richard Rose, the Elders and Deacons, and the members of the congregation.

Special Bullets

Golf outings with Otis Green, Ed Shaw, and Bro. Hudson. I wasn't the best, but thankfully not the worst. One day I will write the story of my near fatal, yet highly comical golf-cart accident.
Cleavon Matthews and one of his Elders, Bro. Pettiford, came down for some golf. We played teams. I think I started a Cincinnati/Dayton rivalry. Bro. Rose rode along to talk noise.

2009 planning session with author James Clingman, the original 'Blackonomicist'. He has a relevant message.
Country dindin with the Jasper Family. May God bless.
The Freedom Center with Richard Rose. Sometimes it seemed like Bro. Rose knew the historical figures personally. No offense Old Man.
Visiting the garden plots at the back of the church. Awesome!! Oh the land the land! Can't have that in Brooklyn.
Huge portions of love and appreciation from most if not all.

God Bless you Gray Road.

2008-10-23T17:33:00.003-04:00

Brother Cleavon Matthews is the minister of the Northwest Church of Christ in Dayton Ohio. He did an excellent job as the guest preacher for our Family Enrichment Seminar. Every lesson was power-packed with solid, practical and inspirational truth. We thank God for Cleavon's giftedness in Word delving and delivery. We had a good time.

Kings At Harlem

2008-10-23T17:14:00.003-04:00

Go Hammy!
Go Wilson!
Get Busy!
Its the Lord's Day

Blog Shot

2008-10-20T23:46:00.003-04:00

A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble. ~Charles H. Spurgeon

"Kindness and truth preserve the king; And his throne is upholden by kindness. Proverbs 20:28"

Long Living

2008-10-16T22:07:00.002-04:00

The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. – Proverbs 10:27

Fear often gets a bad rep. Phobia. Frightened. Scared. Cowardly. These are negative aspects of the word fear. There are, however, some very positive synonyms of fear. The Proverbist teaches that this positive fear has great consequence -- prolonged life. In a world where everyone is trying to live longer, the fear of God somehow never makes the list for longevity secrets.

What is the fear of the Lord?

It is the Awe of God. – The fact that He takes your breath away when you try to comprehend His majesty.

It is the Respect for God. – The recognition that He holds the highest seat of all power and authority in the entire universe.

It is the Reverence of God – The proper esteem which humbles the proud, convicts the sinner and silences the critical.

It is the Mysteriousness of God – The paradox of an omnipresent eternal being that no one can see or has seen.

It is the Severity of God – The awful, nagging, consuming terror which continuously haunts the disobedient.

This type of fear will motivate one to the way of wisdom. And that wisdom will in turn result in long life. Theologically speaking, Jesus is the wisdom of God. Following him will give you Eternal Life.

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