Livin' the life...

As we haven’t had any comical articles lately, today I intend to resolve that! Below are a few amusing church signs that I found. I hope they bring some joy to you and yours today and this coming week!

 

Before ending this article, I’d like to ask you to remember Chile in your prayers. The recent earthquake has left hundreds dead and seriously affected the country’s infrastructure. Today also officially begins a 3 day period of mourning (Link).

Have a great week, and God bless.

Let me see the devil beat that!

Garbage Truck.

One day I  hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were driving  in the  right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space   right in  front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his breaks, skidded, and   missed the  other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his  head around  and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved  at the guy.  And I mean, he was really friendly.

So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and   sent us to the hospital!' This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now   call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run  around full  of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of  disappointment.

As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and  sometimes   they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish  them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other   people at work, at home, or on the streets.

The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take  over their day. Life's  too short to wake up in the morning with regrets,  so..... 'Love the people who treat you right. Pray  for the ones who don't.'

Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!

Have a great week!!

Countless times in the past, I have written the TFTW based on something not-so-great that has happened to me, and has thoroughly tested my patience and even faith. By sharing these experiences, I firmly believe that this allows God to work through me, and us all to benefit (maybe you can learn from my mistakes, silly choices, or my occasional impatience regarding God’s word!). Well, last week, guess what? Nothing “not-so-great” happened! Actually, last week was a fabulous week, and tomorrow’s one of the biggest days of the year for me. Here enters the problem – What do I write for this week’s TFTW?! Lol. *Brief panic attack*

Well actually, no. Not a problem at all – let’s not forget who our God is! After some quiet reflection, the topic of for this week’s article was as clear as a bright summer’s day. The topic? The Good and the Bad.

Have you ever recognised that sometimes you cruise through life and everything’s great, and other times, life is just plain rough? Why can’t it always be great? Why can’t we always get what we want, how we want, when we want? .. Simply put, that’s just not how it is suppose to be (in this word anyway). You won’t always have good times, but you’re also unlikely to always have bad times. Life, and especially a Christian life, is about taking the good with the bad. Job is one of the most perfect examples of this fact. Defending the Lord, to his wife, Job said “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (Job 2:10). This is an amazing passage, because even as Job was being tested beyond anything anyone had ever imagined, he still defended the Lord’s actions with an undying faith. His eyes remained focused on the Lord in times of prosperity and times of hardship. He accepted the good and the bad/adversity. No wonder the Lord could say, “There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” (Job 2:3)

May we all strive to be like Job, and accept the good and the bad/adversity. And through it all, give thanks and praise to the most high. After all, admittedly, bad times purify us, build character, transform us, and ultimately, make us ready for our eternal homes.

“If heat rises, wouldn’t heaven be hotter than hell?” – I saw this quote a few days ago and I can’t help but say that it made me chuckle. After all, heat does rise, but I’m sure hoping that heaven isn’t hotter than hell! Apart from this obvious reaction, this quote lead to me reminiscing about times as a teenager in Sunday School, when we hotly debated topics such as (i) the existence of heaven and hell, and where exactly they might be (for example, is heaven above the clouds? The upper mesosphere maybe?); (ii) whether people spend eternity in hell, or if God gives them a break after a while (we *did* debate this!); and even, (iii) where do we go when we die – do we stay in a ‘waiting area’ until Judgement Day, or do you get judged at the moment you die?

All these were very interesting topics for discussion on Sunday mornings, and indeed still remain somewhere lurking in the back of my mind, and maybe also in the back of yours. One thing I’d like to point out however, is that right now, we have much more pressing matters to attend to. For example, our ministry and mission in this world. Rick Warren captures the meanings of these two words aptly in his statement, “Your ministry is your service to believers, and your mission is your service to unbelievers” (Purpose Driven Life). Fulfilling these aspects are critical purposes for our lives. These require us not to get unduly preoccupied in topics that add little value, and might be considered esoteric (such as the positioning of hell, or the temperature of heaven!). Instead however, we are to focus on living for Christ now, in everything we say and do, and our service to others is a key part of that.

I leave you with a few questions for this week therefore: Who can you serve in this coming week? Whose life can you touch in a Christ-like way? What is your ministry for this week? And what is your mission?

Hey all! Hope you had a nice, peaceful weekend.

This week’s article links to a set of photos from Haiti that I came across a few days ago. I found them very moving and I know you will too. I implore you, if you can help, please do.

Haiti 6 days later (in pictures)

I read a quote recently saying, “Before the earthquake, Haiti was one of the poorest nations in the world. About 70% of Haitians live on less than $2 a day, and now they have lost everything.” (Ref)

I can help, you can help, we can help. If we truly believe in the Body of Christ and our duty to our fellow man - we must help.

Here are a few inspirational stories regarding Haiti, people’s efforts for Haiti and amazing rescues.

Seven-year-old raises £30k for Haiti | Telethon raises 'record' $57m for Haiti victims | Haitian man rescued from rubble after 11 days | Earthquake survivors get solar-powered audio bibles | Haiti quake: Survivors' stories

Have a great week and God bless!

I won’t even pretend to focus on anything else. Let’s face it, all of our eyes and hearts are focused on Haiti. The earthquake that ravished Port-au-Prince, has resulted in thousands of deaths, millions of dollars in infrastructure damage, and now, likely even more dire situations as disease takes hold of the survivors. I don’t intend add to the BBC, CNN, and AP by giving you yet another recap, I just want to point out two things.

First, the sudden nature of death, or rather fickle nature of live. How many persons you think knew that was their last day alive? That a magnitude-7.0 earthquake, the country's most severe in over 200 years would strike and end their live? My point? None of us knows when we will die, or when Christ will return. Thus, “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Mat 24:42-44. Watch, be ready!

My second point speaks to the response to this disaster by countries and individuals alike. At the international level, I’ve been elated to see the response from countries that these days, can’t see eye-to-eye on much in terms of foreign policy, or international relations – I shall call no names! Maybe I am naive in thinking that this situation wasn’t used as a publicity stunt, to show-off to countries’ skill sets or the size of their wallets, but regardless, I was very pleased. I heard about teams from all over the globe sending supplies, doctors/nurses, medicine, search-and-rescue dogs, and specialist search tools. I imagine some of the most skilled folk in search-and-rescue from all over the world are in Haiti right now, working together! How amazing is that? This care for human life reminds me of the words in Mat 25:37-40:

““Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’”

Let’s join in these efforts for Haiti, and contribute whatever we can. Below are a list of sites you can use to donate online or via a mobile phone.

American Red Cross, British Red Cross, Disaster Emergency Committee, Digicel Haiti Relief Fund (Facebook link), Amazon.com, and the UNICEF Appeal. I’m sure there are many, many more links so please give what you can. (A warning however is to ensure you give to a reputable organisation/website! I’d advise you stick with well-known names.)

Have a great week, and remember Haiti and all the other places in this world where there is suffering and constant pain, in your prayers.

This week’s article has a bit of a Caribbean twist to it. It’s a song and I hope you will enjoy it. It’s from Donnie McClurkin and called Caribbean Medley, I’m sure some of you know it. The lyrics however never get old!

Have a great week!

1. Give God what's right -- not what's left.
2. Man's way leads to a hopeless end! -- God's way leads to an endless hope.
3. A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.
4. He who kneels before God can stand before anyone.
5. In the sentence of life, the devil may be a comma--but never let him be the period.
6. Don't put a question mark where God puts a period.
7. Are you wrinkled with burden? Come to the church for a face-lift.
8. When praying, don't give God instructions - just report for duty.
9. Don't wait for six strong men to take you to church.
10. We don't change God's message -- His message changes us.
11. The church is prayer-conditioned.
12. When God ordains, He sustains.
13. WARNING: Exposure to the Son may prevent burning.
14. Plan ahead -- It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark.
15. Most people want to serve God, but only in an advisory position.
16. Suffering from truth decay? Brush up on your Bible.
17. Exercise daily -- walk with the Lord.
18. Never give the devil a ride -- he will always want to drive.
19. Nothing else ruins the truth like stretching it.
20. Compassion is difficult to give away because it keeps coming back.
21. He who angers you controls you.
22. Worry is the darkroom in which negatives can develop.
23. Give Satan an inch & he'll be a ruler.
24. Be ye fishers of men -- you catch them & He'll clean them..
25. God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

Have a great week! And I wish you God's richest blessings in the new year!

This week is a game. Yep, a game! I list Bible verses and you get try to guess where they are from! I’m generally using NIV. All the best!

1. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

2. "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."

3. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the..."

4. "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."

5. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

6. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God"

7. "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.'"

8. "Commit thy way unto the Lord: trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

9. "For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it."

10. "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Right! That’s it! How did you do? Feel free to look up the ones you didn’t get. But of course, the most important thing is to remember them, not where they are from. They are particularly useful in situations where problems arise and you need reassurance that God will handle it. Every day, of every week, of ever month, of every year, I try hard to remember #5 i.e. "Trust in the LORD..". I believe He will direct my paths and yours.

Have a great week! And, may God be with you!

Hey all! Hope you are well. This week’s article uses a joke of sorts, to convey one of the main tenets in our faith. I hope you enjoy BUT most importantly, I hope that you get the message!

A man dies and mets St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. Peter says to the man, "Here's how it works. You need to have one hundred points to get into heaven. You tell me about all the good things you've done. They are all worth a certain number of points. If your total is one hundred or more, you can come in."
"Well," says the man. "I was happily married to the same woman for 52 years. I never looked at another woman. I was attentive and loved her dearly."
"That's great," says St. Peter. "That'll be two points."
"Hmmm," says the man. "This is going to be harder than I thought. Well, I attended church regularly, volunteered my time and tithed faithfully."
"Wonderful," says St. Peter, "That's worth another point."
"One point!" says the man. "Okay, okay. I was involved with a prison ministry for twenty-five years. I went into the prison, at least monthly, and shared Jesus with them."
"Wow!" says St. Peter. "That's another two points!"
"Only two points!" says the man. "At this rate, it'll be by the grace of God that'll I'll ever get into this place."
"Bingo!" says St. Peter. "That's one hundred points! Come on in."

Remember, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Have a great week and God bless!

The TFTW is a song, or rather a video featuring a song by Tim Hughes called We Must Go. I heard the song for the first time last week and I think it's amazing. I hope you enjoy it, and accept its challenge to go out in the world and work for Christ.

The video:

 

The related verse:
"When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
      "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
      Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."

Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
      He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
      Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."

The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
      Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. " John 21:1517

Come on people.. We must go. May the Lord be with you.

One of the biggest misconceptions I had when I was under the age of 16, was that “church” was the well-architectured, highly decorated building, which you visited for a few hours on Sundays. I say ‘misconception’ because, as I’m sure we all know, “church” actually refers to the gathering of people for fellowship and worship. Therefore, there is a clear difference between “church” (somewhat conceptual) and “church building” (very physical!).

I began with this brief background on the word because I’ve noticed that many people seem to be constantly missing the underlying purpose of church, and how pivotal it is to our Christian lives. After researching this topic for a while, I found a very interesting article titled Why go to church? In that article, the author looks at the key reasons why people don’t go to church and debunks them one-by-one with some pretty strong counter-arguments. For example, a number of people cite that church is boring (however, arguably so is your life – it is up to you to make it more enjoyable), or that church hints towards a hypocritical ‘one-day-a-week holiness’ for church-goers (however, what others do should not deter you, and for you personally, it’s your own decision to act holy once a week, or everyday!).

My favourite excuse is “Church is unnecessary since private prayer and Bible study can be done without others.” This excuse completely misses a key fact of Christianity. Hebrews 10:25 states, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” The fellowship side is CRITICAL in our lives, and Christian walks. By meeting for church, we share common beliefs, share ways to overcome problems, and support and encourage our brothers and sisters in their walks. I can’t count the number of times, I have been lifted by hearing that someone else is going through what I’m going through. Or, even better, that they’ve been through it and I can handle it by doing X, Y or Z. Each one of us has a part to play as we all constitute the body of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12:12-27) and fellowship is one necessity in practising this membership.

Reflecting back on the article, the author states, “There are three spiritual pillars to have a strong Christian life: personal prayer, Bible study and fellow believers. To rely on less than all three is like trying to sit on a one or two-legged stool. Three legs are needed for a firm foundation and proper function.”

There is a need for church, or Christ would not have emphasised it time and time again in His teachings. Anyone remember, “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18).

Could you imagine a Christianity where everyone did their own thing individually, and never met for communal fellowship or worship? *Shudder* I couldn’t!

Just by seeing the title “Be still”, I’m sure a lot of you have already cleverly deduced where I’m headed with this week’s article. Yes, it is from the scripture in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God”. Contrary to what you ‘smarty-pants’ may think however, I am not going to write out a lengthy lesson on that Bible passage. Instead, I am going to challenge you to spend 15 minutes (yes, an ENTIRE 15 minutes) sometime during this week, to sit in a quiet place and opening your mind to God. The way I did this was first to clear my mind of all other things, secondly say a prayer to God asking Him to come onto me, and finally, being still and waiting on Him speak to me or enlighten me as He wishes.

I hope you can find the time to take up my challenge. For me, I actually had a very pleasant surprise at the end. And knowing God, I’m sure He’s got a surprise waiting for you too!

Have a great week and God bless!

How true! Have a great week!

Hey all!

Hope you had a great week, and you're relaxing a bit today in preparation for the new week starting tomorrow! It would do you well to recognize that I'm sending the TFTW one day earlier than usual. There's no particular reason for this, I just thought I would mix things up a bit. After all, I don't want you to view the TFTW as a Sunday-based, boring thing! It's due to be fun, eye-opening and a blessing not only for the week ahead, but for the week passing.

The TFTW is based on a nice poem I read previously, and the Bible verse that complements it. I hope you enjoy.

God’s Word was given for our good
And we are to obey,
Not choose the parts that we like best,
Then live in our own way. —Hess

1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (New International Version)

Living to Please God

Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.

It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him. The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit.

Now about brotherly love we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. And in fact, you do love all the brothers throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers, to do so more and more.

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

 

May you have a blessed week!

Hope you enjoy story chosen for TFTW this week.. It’s title is A Teenager’s View of Heaven.

17-year-old Brian Moore had only a short time to write something for a class. The subject was what Heaven was like. "I wowed 'em," he later told his father, Bruce. "It's a killer. It's the bomb. It's the best thing I ever wrote.." It also was the last.

Brian Moore died May 27, 1997, the day after Memorial Day. He was driving home from a friend's house when his car went off Bulen-Pierce Road in Pickaway County and struck a utility pole. He emerged from the wreck unharmed but stepped on a downed power line and was electrocuted.

The Moores framed a copy of Brian's essay and hung it among the family portraits in the living room. "I think God used him to make a point. I think we were meant to find it and make something out of it," Mrs. Moore said of the essay. She and her husband want to share their son's vision of life after death. "I'm happy for Brian. I know he's in heaven. I know I'll see him."

Brian's Essay: The Room...

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings. As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was.

This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.

A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," "Jokes I Have Laughed at ." Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've yelled at my brothers." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents.

Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature.

When I pulled out the file marked "TV Shows I have watched", I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content.

I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it.

Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

And then I saw it.. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand.

And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him.

No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own.

He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side.

He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."-John 3:16. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."-Phil. 4:13.  If you feel the same way, forward it so the love of Jesus will touch their lives also. My "People I shared the gospel with" file just got bigger, how about yours?

Some weeks ago, I remember hearing about some floods in the Philippines, I think it made headline news. I must admit however that I did not investigate into this news any further. It is not that I didn’t care, but rather that I was quite consumed with my own life, the various tasks to do, issues and problems faced, etc. I’m sure you all can empathise with the busyness of our modern-day lives!

To my surprise, this week one of my friends (thanks PP) forwarded me some photos from those floods and I was simply gobsmacked. Here I am thinking that my life is so busy, I have so many things to do, and almost every other week some huge problem arises that demands to be handled immediately. Yet, people in the Philippines are having to wade through muddy water (often polluted!) up to their chins, lose everything they own (houses, cars, furniture, clothes), and just barely hang on to their lives and lives of their family members. And to think that events such as this, and even more catastrophic, happen in some areas every few months!

This made me pause for some time, and reflect on my life and how thankful I should be for the lifestyle I live and the ‘problems’ I have. Actually, a comment of one of my friends comes to mind: We were walking through the shopping center, and I was moaning about course assignments and getting pretty down on myself (if you know me, you know how I can get!). To reply, my friend pointed out a man in a wheelchair passing us by, and said very kindly, “Jason, you don’t have problems, you see that man? He has a problem”. Life in many ways is based on our perspective of it. Often we give little things too much importance and forget the blessings God has generously placed on us and those around us.

Below I have included some of the photos from the tragedy in the Philippines (hover over photos to see descriptions). I ask that you mull over these photos for a while, and use them to (1) remember all the people in this world who faced real problems and ask God to help them and give them the strength they need, and (2) give thanks for your lives and the blessings that are, as the song goes, ‘new every morning’.

 

 

Take care and God bless! Hope you have a fabulous week!

The TFTW is based on one of my favourite passages in the book of Hebrews. Take a read below..

Hebrews 4:14-16 (New King James Version)

Our Compassionate High Priest
"Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

Can you imagine that Jesus faced the same temptations that you faced? Really, think about it for a few minutes - the Son of God, whom we pray to and who presents us with a way back to the Father, faced similar problems and temptations that you face. Jesus felt what you felt! And because of this, Jesus can sympathize with each and everyone of our weaknesses. To me, this is actually a bit comforting, as when I’m going through some *real* pain, I know that Jesus, my Lord and Saviour, can appreciate how I feel.

Jesus, and God the Father know the trials of our lives, the pains we will face, and the times we will tend to stumble and lose our way. Knowing these issues/weaknesses, and the need for reconnection to the Father, Jesus was sent to provide forgiveness for us all. He was the pure, unblemished, lamb (who was tempted, but without sin) that was sacrificed to provide a path to eternity. That was Jesus’ purpose. Through Jesus, the new covenant was created, a new lifestyle outlined, and a clear path of forgiveness for all who believe in Him, laid down.

To conclude, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

Thanks be to Christ!

Have a great week!

I quite enjoyed this email, sent to me by a good friend. It caused me to stop and reflect on my life and what I wanted to get out of it. That was the first real peace I’ve felt in a little while now. I hope you like it.

Life Explained

A boat docked in a tiny Mexican fishing village.

A tourist complimented the local fishermen
on the quality of their fish and asked
how long it took him to catch them.

"Not very long." they answered in unison.

"Why didn't you stay out longer and catch more?"

The fishermen explained that their small catches were
sufficient to meet their needs and those of their families.

"But what do you do with the rest of your time?"

"We sleep late, fish a little, play with our children,
and take siestas with our wives.
In the evenings, we go into the village to see our friends,
have a few drinks, play the guitar, and sing a few songs.

We have a full life."

The tourist interrupted,

"I have an MBA from Harvard and I can help you!
You should start by fishing longer every day.
You can then sell the extra fish you catch.
With the extra revenue, you can buy a bigger boat."

"And after that?"

"With the extra money the larger boat will bring,
you can buy a second one and a third one
and so on until you have an entire fleet of trawlers.
Instead of selling your fish to a middle man,
you can then negotiate directly with the processing plants
and maybe even open your own plant.

You can then leave this little village and move to Mexico City,
Los Angeles, or even New York City!

From there you can direct your huge new enterprise."

"How long would that take?"

"Twenty, perhaps twenty-five years." replied the tourist.

"And after that?"

"Afterwards? Well my friend, that's when it gets really interesting,"
answered the tourist, laughing. "When your business gets really big,
you can start buying and selling stocks and make millions!" 

"Millions? Really? And after that?" asked the fishermen.

"After that you'll be able to retire,
live in a tiny village near the coast,
sleep late, play with your children,
catch a few fish, take a siesta with your wife
and spend your evenings drinking and enjoying your friends."

And the moral of this story is:

........ Know where you're going in life...
you may already be there!! 

 

 

Have a great week all!

This week’s TFTW is a simple, yet very important Bible passage. I hope you can set aside some time to meditate on it, and remember it in times of frustration and bewilderment.

Matthew 7:7-11

⁷"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. ⁸For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

⁹"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? ¹⁰Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? ¹¹If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"

This is the word of the Lord, .. Thanks be to God!

Have a great week all!

For this week’s TFTW I’ve chosen a comical article, I trust you will like it. I chose it hoping to put a smile on your face and gear you up for the new week. Secondly, I want to stress the fact that as  Christians, laughter isn’t to be avoided. It fits perfectly into our lives and God loves a joyful heart.

Now the TFTW..

Most of us have now learned to live with voice mail as a necessary part of our lives. Have you ever wondered what it would be like if God decided to install voice mail? Imagine praying and hearing the following:

Thank you for calling heaven.
For English press 1
For Spanish press 2
For all other languages, press 3

Please select one of the following options:
Press 1 for request
Press 2 for thanksgiving
Press 3 for complaints
Press 4 for all others

I am sorry, all our Angels and Saints are busy helping other sinners right now. However, your prayer is important to us and we will answer it in the order it was received. Please stay on the line.

If you would like to speak to:
God, press 1
Jesus, press 2
Holy spirit, press 3

To find a loved one that has been assigned to heaven press 5, then enter his social security # followed by the pound sign.

(If you receive a negative response, please hang up and dial area code 666)

For reservations to heaven, please enter JOHN followed by the numbers, 3 16.

For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs, life and other planets, please wait until you arrive in heaven for the specifics.

Our computers show that you have already been prayed for today, please hang up and call again tomorrow.

The office is now closed for the weekend to observe a religious holiday.

If you are calling after hours and need emergency assistance, please contact your local pastor.

Thank you and have a heavenly day.

 

Lol. Have a great week all! . The joke above was taken from Christian jokes site.

Last week, I watched to one of Joel Osteen’s broadcasts online titled, Being fully persuaded (you can get it here if you’re interested). In Joel’s sermon in that session, he emphasized the need to focus on Your God (and His omnipotence), instead of your problems. When tough times come, don’t focus on them and analyze them and identify every way in which they will destroy you, or your health, or your life. Focus on your God! Is it not your God that controls time, built the universe, and knew you even before you were born?

Apart from focusing on your God when you face your problems, another thing one must also do is keep the right company. Other people’s constant negativity will bring most of us down. Note however that I am not saying/suggesting to abandon friends when they are at low points in their life, you should be right there to help them up! Love your neighbour as you love yourself!

What I’m referring to above is constant negativity, which regardless of your attempts, ends both of you in the same depressive state. People have to be willing to be helped, and have to have a willingness to change or adapt or trust for themselves. If not, to be honest, there’s not much you can do besides to keep them in your prayers.

To end, I’ll paraphrase a joke story given by Joel to highlight the need for focusing on God and keeping positive acquaintances.

Fed up with life and the problems he faced, Larry climbed to the top of a bridge, intending to jump off and end his life. Trying to counsel him, Frank goes up on the bridge close to Larry and asks Larry to come down. Larry angrily shouts to Frank that he has so many problems, and life is just not worth it anymore. Frank then figures that maybe he can get Larry to talk about his problems and that he’ll feel a bit better afterwards. So, Frank asks Larry to tell him some of his problems. Larry quickly beings to list job issues, family issues, health issues, and so on.. After listening to Larry’s problems for about 3 hours, Frank is so depressed that they both jump!

 

Keep your eye on the prize folks. God is waiting!

I received this email a few weeks back, and I think it’s a good lesson for the TFTW.. hope you enjoy.

The Coffee or The Cup!

This really is profound, I am going to try and keep this in mind the next time I feel "stressed".....

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the coffee.

When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups.. . And then you began eyeing each other's cups.

Now consider this: Life is the coffee; the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we have does not define, nor change the quality of life we live. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews the coffee, not the cups.......... Enjoy your coffee!

"The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything." Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

 

Don’t get caught up on what won’t last. Invest in your eternity. It’s what we were all put here for.

Have a great week! And thanks for the TFTW PP!

This week’s TFTW is a Bible passage. As I read it earlier this week, I couldn’t help but be in awe at God’s love for us. Its words somehow made me feel peace, in knowing that our God is always there for us and His love transcends all. I hope this passage will bring you the same peace today and in this coming week.

Romans 8:31-39

What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:
   "For your sake we face death all day long;
      we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Have a blessed week!

Last weekend I had the pleasure of spending some time with two of my younger cousins – one is 3 and the other, 8 years old. Beyond getting reacquainted with their almost ever-present energy store, one thing that astounded me, especially with the 3 year old, was her trust in me. I just had to stick out my index finger (her little hands would hold me there) and I could lead her just about anywhere – ok well maybe I would have to promise candy, or chocolate first. The relationship of my cousins with their mother was of course much more trusting, and at various times throughout the weekend, the kids exercised full dependence in mom to do some task, or make things right.

This complete trust, i.e. the trust comparable to that displayed by a child, is how Jesus expects us to come to, and trust in Him. In Mark 10:15, Jesus says, “Assuredly, I stay to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” To explain this verse, my study Bible comments, “The kingdom of God is only for those who come to Jesus in the humble dependence and trust of little children. The kingdom of God belongs to them, not because of merit, but because God wills to give it to the humble, and the apparently insignificant or unimportant.” Amazing isn’t it??

Therefore, when we’re faced with problems, hurtful situations, and in times of hopelessness, let us trust in Jesus to sort it out. Remember, the trust I mean here isn’t where you hand it over to Jesus yet still worry, and be anxious. It’s where you give it to Him and leave it with Him. As the popularly forwarded email notes, put your situation/problem in the SFGTD (Something For God To Do) box! Put it there and forget it.

To conclude, I can’t help but reflect on that popular Anglican hymn that goes, “Trust and obey, for there’s no other way, To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”

Have a great week!

This week’s article is sourced from Our Daily Bread devotionals. When I read it on Wednesday, I knew it was definitely something I wanted to pass on. The article is titled He Is Enough, and you can read it here.

To reiterate its ending, “Whatever our circumstances, Jesus is present with His love, compassion, and grace. He is proof, presence, and provision enough to carry us safely through. - David C. Egner”

Blessed be to His name!

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine made the observation that she was spending more time on Facebook than reading her Bible, or generally, spending time with God. As I pondered over that realisation, I remembered the ubiquitous notion of Facebook. People can post messages to their “walls” at any time, about anything, and these days, from any device connected to the WWW. What this means is that people post messages at work, at the beach, at parties, at dinners, and belief it or not, even in the hospital! (You know who you are!)

Now, while this is all fine and good – hey I’m not against people posting every moment of their lives online for their friends to see – I can’t help but be concerned about the amount of time people put into sites such as Facebook, and now, Twitter, as compared to the time they spend with God (via Bible reading, meditation, evangelism, discussions, etc). I’m not saying that I know what time people do and do not spend with God, but as an outsider making informed observations, I am concerned! I’m well aware that FB can take up hours of one’s time, I even have a few friends that have closed their accounts because it was consuming too much of their time!

My point is that God values us, and the time we spend with Him. If one spends too much time being preoccupied with other things (Facebook or otherwise e.g. money, fame, pride), its just as if they are your fake idols i.e. you were replacing God with them. And even though I may be stepping out onto a ledge on this statement, I don’t think He’ll be too pleased.

I suggest we all consider these things, as in the end, God won’t ask you how many Facebook friends you had, or how many times a day you updated your status, or how many photos you had, or were tagged in on Facebook. Let’s get our priorities right! None of us know what time we have left. None of us!

Take care and God bless!

Thirteen things to remember:

0. The love of your God,

1.  The value of time,

2.  The success of perseverance,

3.  The pleasure of working,

4.  The dignity of simplicity,

5.  The worth of character,

6.  The power of kindness,

7.  The influence of example,

8.  The obligation of duty,

9.  The wisdom of economy,

10.  The virtue of patience,

11.  The improvement of talent,

12.  The joy of origination.

You’ve all heard these already but I thought a “Bible shot” containing these verses, will be a nice reminder of the commandments we are expected – as Christians - to live by.

“The first of all the commandments is:  ‘Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one. And you shall  love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this:  ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31

You can’t want it any clearer than that. Meditate on scripture, it was given for our edification.

Anchor -Hebrews 6:19
"Adverse circumstances surrounding us could easily drive us into despair. And yet we have a hope that keeps us from sinking. That hope rests on Jesus, and what He did for us on the cross” - Michael D. Waters (Source)

What more do we want!

Enough said! Have a blessed week, and thank you M.C. for sharing this poem with me.

I trust you’ll enjoy this little poem for this week’s TFTW.

Sometimes I ask the question,
"My Lord, is this Your will?"
It's then I hear You answer me,
"My Precious child . . . be still."

Sometimes I feel frustrated,
'Cause I think I know what's best.
It's then I hear You say to me,
"My busy child . . . just rest."

Sometimes I feel so lonely
And I think I'd like a mate.
Your still small voice gets oh, so clear
And says, "My child . . . please wait."

"I know the plans I have for you,
The wondrous things you'll see;
If you can just be patient, child,
And put your trust in Me.

I've plans to draw you closer.
I've plans to help you grow.
There's much I do you cannot see
And much you do not know.

But know this, child . . . I love you!
You are precious unto Me.
Before I formed you in the womb,
I planned your destiny.

I've something very special
I hope for you to learn.
The gifts I wish to give to you
Are gifts you cannot earn.

They come without a price tag,
But not without a cost;
At Calvary, I gave My Son,
So you would not be lost.

Rest child, and do not weary
Of doing what is good.
I promise I'll come back for you
Just like I said I would.

Your name is written on My palm,
I never could forget;
Therefore, do not be discouraged when
My answer is . . . "Not Yet"

(Author Unknown)

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NIV) says:
"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace."

 

Have a great week!

Last night, whilst watching a movie I saw a little boy, probably the age of 12, risk his life to save his younger brother. When asked why he did it, he simply responded, “It’s Alehandro [my brother], he’s family!”. This willingness to put another before oneself reminded me of a real-life incident in Barbados recently, where two young lads drowned, one trying to save the other. I don’t intend to take away from this tragedy, but really, how great a love is that! Love that was willing to sacrifice it all to come to the aid of another. Hmm.. wait a minute, that sounds like the story of Jesus’ sacrifice all over again! Actually, during His short time on this earth, Jesus spoke at length about such unwavering love. One of His most well-known remarks is, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13, NKJV).

Serving others, and putting others before ourselves was one of Jesus’ primary teachings. Don’t take my word for it, open your Bibles to Matthew 20:26-28, or Matthew 25:33-40. In whatever area you can imagine, we as Christians are expected to serve each other. Frankly put, it’s a very serious expectation of our lives here on this earth, and one I don’t think we should take too lightly as Rick Warren highlights in the excerpt below..

“At the end of your life on earth you will stand before God, and he is going to evaluate how well you served others with your life. The Bible says, ‘Each of us will have to give a personal account to God’ (Rom 14:12, NLT). Think about the implications of that. One day God will compare how much time and energy we spent on ourselves compared with what we invested in serving others.
At that point, all our excuses for self-centeredness will sound hollow: ‘I was too busy’ or ‘I had my own goals’ or ‘I was preoccupied with working, having fun, or preparing for retirement’. To all excuses God will respond, ‘Sorry, wrong answer. I created, saved, and called you and commanded you to live a life of service. What part did you not understand?’ The Bible warns unbelievers, ‘He will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves,’ (Rom 2:28, NLT) but for Christians it will mean a loss of eternal rewards.” (Rick Warren: Purpose Driven Life, pp.231-232)

Remember your purpose here and work actively towards it, none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. We are commanded to love and to serve, nothing should keep us from these tasks. Whoever you are, wherever you are, you have a calling, get to it!

“What a mighty God we serve, what a mighty God we serve! The angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him, what a mighty God we serve!” These are the words to a common jingle uttered by Christians all over the world. Personally, I know God is awesome, I know He is omnipotent, I know He is capable of wondrous works, but a few days ago I was blown away once again by what I think is an amazing, breath-taking scene – which I’ve included in this TFTW. I took it from a plane, as we were flying over what I believe to be The Alps. I’d like us this week to meditate on this photo and all of the other scenes you know about that help give an idea of how wonderful God and His creations are.

We can never fully comprehend God, or all His wonders, but we can definitely use them to appreciate our lives, and all He has put under our dominion. Thanks be to God!

Helen Slatter, a practising Catholic, says she is being forced to choose between her job and her faith after her NHS employers demanded that she remove the religious symbol, which she wears beneath her uniform.

Ms Slatter, a phlebologist who collects blood samples at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, in Gloucester, was told at a disciplinary meeting that her position was at risk if she continued to wear the one inch-tall crucifix.
The NHS Trust insisted that their demands were due to a uniform policy and not down to religion. ...

The mother-of-one, from Gloucester, added: "They have told me that for health and safety reasons and for infection control I must take it off or I will be sent home.

Full story.

Recently I’ve felt like there is a vicious, and epic battle going on in my mind. When it isn’t the common ‘good vs evil’-themed fight, it’s centred around doubt, frustration, anger, impatience, hopelessness, and feelings of injustice. There seems to be always something pulling me one way or another, and it really is one of the most frustrating things. So this week when I read the Daily Bread for Tuesday, I was quite shocked when it said, “In the book of Revelation, we read of the endtimes: “War broke out in heaven . . . . [And Satan] was cast to the earth” (Rev. 12:7-9). That future war is being preceded by an earthly conflict on the battlefield of our minds.” Wow, where did that come from? That statement is slightly comforting, because (i) I know what’s happening in my mind isn’t unique, and also I’m not going crazy! and (ii) these battles in our mind are quite real, but rest assured, in the end we know which side wins. But to be frank, that statement is also scary. It more-or-less states that we’re going to fight these fights in our mind possibly for all our lives. There will be this constant struggle, the flesh vs. the Spirit, if you wish.

If you’re like me, your next question probably therefore is, “Can anything be done to help it?”. And in reply, fortunately there is! We must strengthen the side we want to win! Prepare for the battle! I always like using the school analogy.. when it was exam time at school, how did you pass/ace an exam? By hoping your mind would recall all that happened the preceding term/year? Or, by hitting the books, pulling all-nighters, and burning the candle at both ends? The answer? You read the books, and studied them. Simply put, you prepared. With the battle in your head, the preparation is quite similar, instead of reading the textbook however, you read the Bible, and additionally pray for understanding and guidance. Supporting material such as guidance books, study Bibles, also are quite useful in helping you sharpen your wits. In some situations, the Bible needs no support or ‘middleman’ as it’s quite explicit. For example, the fruits of the Spirit in Gal 5:22-26 are stated as plain as day, “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control”. These are the things we should aim for and try to always reinforce in our minds.

Directly focused on the mind and supporting God’s side of the battle, we can take courage from these words in Phil 4:8, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.” Consciously focusing our mind on the good, and praying to God for His help is a must if any sign of peace is to surface in your mind, or mine.

Prepare with God’s word, because regardless of what you do, the battle awaits..

God blessed us with the ability to laugh, so it’s only right that I focus on that ability in a TFTW. Hope you enjoy..!

When Forest Gump died, he stood in front of St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. St. Peter said, "Welcome, Forest. We've heard a lot about you." He continued, "Unfortunately, it's getting pretty crowded up here and we find that we now have to give people an entrance examination before we let them in."

"Okay," said Forest. "I hope it's not too hard. I've already been through a test. My momma used to say, 'Life is like a final exam. It's hard.' "
"Yes, Forest, I know. But this test is only three questions. Here they are."
    1) Which two days of the week begin with the letter 'T'?"
    2) How many seconds are in a year?
    3) What is God's first name?
"Well, sir," said Forest, "The first one is easy. Which two days of the week begin with the letter 'T'? Today and Tomorrow."
St. Peter looked surprised and said, "Well, that wasn't the answer I was looking for, but you have a point. I give you credit for that answer."

"The next question," said Forest, "How many seconds are in a year? Twelve."
"Twelve?" said St. Peter, surprised and confused.
"Yes, sir. January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd .."
St. Peter interrupted him. "I see what you mean. I'll have to give you credit for that one, too."

"And the last question," said Forest, "What is God's first name? It's Andy."
"Andy?" said St. Peter, in shock. "How did you come up with 'Andy'?"
"I learned it in church. We used to sing about it." Forest broke into song, "Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me, Andy tells me I am His own."

St. Peter opened the gate to heaven and said, "Run, Forest, Run!"

Have a great week!

As I read through the first few chapters of Acts this morning and saw the works of the apostles and disciples, I could not help but wonder about myself and my passion, and/or purpose in this world. This pondering also reminded me of the ‘lukewarm’ feeling that has come over me lately regarding my Christian walk. By ‘lukewarm’, I simply mean that at times my Christian life seems to be made up of just going through the paces – I don’t feel “on fire” for Christ, nor do I feel as if I neglect Him completely. For example, my days almost always goes like this: pray when I wake up; do a devotion from Our Daily Bread; during the day if/when I’m faced with problems I pause and ask God for help/guidance; in times of success or relief, I’m sure to thank Him for His aid; then, before I go to bed, I kneel and pray. On Sundays, I spice things up a bit and head off to church, read my Bible a bit more, and – as you well know – do the TFTW.

I’m sure many of you can empathize with the set of daily tasks mentioned above, but is this all Christianity is about? Is this all we were put here to do? Just go through the paces? Surely not, we must have a bigger purpose or, if I dare say, passion! Regarding the word ‘lukewarm’ highlighted above, Jesus speaks strongly against it in Revelations, i.e. “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth” Rev 3:15-16. In reading the notes given in my study Bible for this passage, it states, “Avoid lukewarmness; stir up your zeal for the Lord.” To put it plainly, we must be “on fire” for Christ in some regard. Whether that be evangelism, prayer, teaching, administrators, etc. – all of which are identified as valid members of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27-28). All of which are important!

To believe in God, there is an implicit belief that we were put here for a purpose. We all have personal mandates to fulfil. Do you know yours? Are you working towards it? I think Christ will be very interested to hear about it on that Judgement day, which is coming very soon.

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of our hearts be always acceptable in your sight, our Lord and our Redeemer. Amen!

Just a quote to ponder this week:

“The devil is content to let us profess Christianity as long as we do not practice it.” (ODB)

Think about it.

Today whilst in Church, I gazed outside briefly at some passers-by. Some seemed to be busily rushing to get somewhere, whilst others were taking their time and enjoying the great weather today (for once it’s actually sunny!). As I saw them, I remembered a question that had captivated my mind a few weeks back regarding people in general, but specifically our loved ones. The question was; If we go to heaven, and some of our loved ones don’t, how will we feel in heaven? Will it have any impact on our joy? Imagine you’re there, but a brother, a sister, a father, a mother, a close friend, a wife, or even a husband, isn’t. Will this affect us at all once through the Pearly Gates? Should it?

I don’t know how I would feel then, but based on my thinking right now, I’d surely like to know that they are all in heaven! So, what can I do about it? Well, evangelize! Tell them about the gospel, speak to them about Jesus! Great! Job done! .. With some people however, this is easier said than done. And of course, just telling them isn’t the real goal, it’s for them to believe for themselves.

I remember sometime ago conversing with a colleague about Jesus, His sacrifice, our salvation, etc, and, to this day I can call to mind their response, “you came to Christ and your belief in your time, I will do it in mine”. You know what? That’s exactly true. As much as it may hurt you as the believer trying to ‘convert’ someone (especially not knowing how long either of us have alive), you can talk all you want, but they have to make that conscious decision or, ‘no dice’ as they say. But, thankfully, all is not lost. Actually, we’re quite within our limits!

Our duty as believers is to spread the word, whether by mouth, or by actions – Mark 16:15 reads, “And He [Jesus] said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature’”. Frankly put, I don’t think it is our responsibility to convert people. As much as we would like to, we simply can’t. I can send out these TFTWs ‘till the cows come home, and you could chose to ignore every single one. But one day, if you’re actively looking, searching to find real purpose in your life, God may open your eyes, and let one TFTW, speak directly to your heart. Conversion is God’s job. Knowing this, instead of being disheartened by the fact that all is not in our hands, let’s be comforted in the fact that God is in control, and let’s continue to do our part by spreading the word. I’m very sure, God is good for His part!

Remember Paul’s words.. “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.” (1 Cor 3:6-7)

Have a great week ladies and gents!

First let start off by wishing you all a Happy Easter! What a glorious day!

Around this time of the year, especially on Good Friday itself, I try to watch a movie centred on the ‘Passion of Christ’ theme. This extends a tradition practiced in my household for many years during my quickly abating ‘youth’. (I’m sure many of you would empathize - with watching The Passion, I mean!) As I watched The Passion (Mel Gibson’s adaptation) this time around, even though I squirmed and twitched at how Jesus was ‘butchered’, I could not help but wonder about the range of titanic decisions made (by Pontius Pilate, Judas and the chief priests), and the motivations behind these choices.

Starting chronologically..

Taking Judas for example, he was one of the first 12. Can you imagine being one of the FIRST 12? Sitting with Jesus, preaching Jesus’ word alongside him, being sent out by Jesus in the flesh? That is quite.. ‘wow’ to me. But yet, Judas chose to betray Jesus, and deliver him to the chief priests (we covered the 30 coins last week). I’ve been reading a bit on this and scholars have attributed greed purely for Judas’ betrayal of Jesus. Quite frankly however, this scares me. Why? Because at times, we all can be greedy. No matter how holy we are, how many times a day we pray, how often we fast, or how many church services a week we attend. And, who knows what’s the real, long term cost of some of our greedy actions.

Considering the chief priests, I think they just could not accept that the Messiah could come in the form of a humble carpenter from Nazareth. They desired more splendour, and more glory. Therefore, they chose to ignore all the signs of Jesus’ majesty, His good works, and His teachings, and chose to have Him crucified as a blasphemer. I’m sure Jesus didn’t gain any points in their eyes when He spoke regarding them either, for e.g. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you will receive greater condemnation.” (Matt 23:14). But now, once again, I wonder. When you think of the coming of the Son of Man, don’t you think of splendour and glory? Unimaginable splendour and glory? If your resident plumber (suddenly) claimed that He was Jesus at the Second Coming, what would your response be? (Not the greatest example but I’m sure you get my point.) In general, these really were some big decisions and in some regards decisions we shouldn’t overlook as being straight forward.

I would go on to Pontius, but you know what he chose to do, so I’ll [spare you the recap.

Generally, these three choices helped to shape our faith. We may condemn, or look down on these people, and maybe rightly so. However, let’s just make sure we see their choices, learn from them, and make the right choices when its our turn to make our big decisions, or simply in everything we do. Remember Paul.. “For to me, to live is Christ, ..” (Phil 1:21)

Have a blessed week knowing that Christ is Risen! The battle is won!

Thirty silver coins (Matt 26:14-16). That was the price Judas Iscariot was paid to betray Jesus. That was the price put on Jesus’ head. To put this into context for you and me, I thought it would be interesting to check a few sites online to attain a rough value of how much 30 silver coins is worth today. Thus far, I’ve been presented with answers ranging from $240 USD (Wikipedia-assuming they were Tyrian shekels), to a month’s wages (Yahoo! Answers-assuming they were denarii). Since, the latter answer is higher, let’s be conservative and go with that one.

A month’s wages. That is the value that was placed on Jesus Christ back then.

Here’s a question, what is the value put on Jesus now? Or better yet, what is the value YOU have attributed to Christ today? We may not be offering Him up for crucifixion for a month’s wages, BUT in our actions, and our life, can a comparable meagre value be seen to have been placed on our Lord?

Is He viewed as the guy we meet on Saturday/Sunday, but by Wednesday, forget? Is He the one that will let us do as we wish for all our lives and then forgive us at Heaven’s gates? Is He the one we cry out to in tough times, “God why me”, and when showered with His blessings we forget He exists?

Or is He the one that demands that “'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment” (Matt 22:37-38). And also, don’t forget, loving and valuing our Lord goes beyond just Him, it also extends to all others: (1) “..And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself.'” (Matt 22:39); and (2) “'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me'” (Mat 25:31-40).

Remember, in your life, in every aspect of it, especially your actions, you show what Jesus means to you.

Have a great week.

Ah, life’s problems, issues, difficulties, trying situations.. There are so many of them! At work, school, or even when trying to relax, or go on a vacation. Even if we don’t have direct problems, sometimes it’s almost as we relish in the desire to worry, to think “what if”, to compare ourselves to more “fortunate”. I wonder, do we really want to be happy, and content? Anyway, this week’s TFTW is a simple cartoon picture. It illustrates that no matter what we have weighing us down, Jesus is always there offering to help us. Regardless of what it is, He is there. Our problems were not meant for us to carry alone (if at all!). Our bodies and minds are to frail.. heart attacks, strokes, and cases of depression clearly exemplify this fact.

Therefore during this week I beg you to remember these words.. “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7.

Have a great week, and I beg you.. remember this verse when those problems, issues, difficulties and trying situations hit you this week.

I got this email a few weeks back, and I enjoyed it, I hope it will bring some joy and insight to your life as well.

The Healing Power of Laughter

One of the greatest stress relievers God has given us is laughter. It not only makes us feel better, but it actually releases healing throughout our system. When we laugh, it restores and rejuvenates what the pressures of life have taken out.

Proverbs 17:22 puts it like this, "A happy heart is like a good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing." Notice, when we're good-natured and full of joy, taking time to laugh and play, it's like taking a good medicine. That's what helps us to stay healthy. People that laugh regularly are 40% less likely to have a heart attack than people that don't laugh regularly. Laughter triggers the right side of the brain, which helps release creativity and helps us to make better decisions.

There is too much sickness in our world today. Much of it is related to sadness. It's directly related to the fact that we don't smile enough. We live uptight and stressed out.

But even during trials and hard times, God says to us, "I've got a solution. In difficulties, cheer up. In famine, laugh. Keep your joy." You can laugh your way to victory, to better health and to more energy.

God knows the end of the story. He knows the final outcome. The good news is you and I win. God always causes us to triumph. We should have a spring in our step, a smile on our face, joy in our hearts and unshakeable faith. God's plan for our lives is for good and He has the answer to our every question. Knowing this, we can laugh at the days ahead! (attributed to Joel Osteen)

More laughter people.. it has a very worthy purpose! Laugh Laugh Laugh!

My msn nick for the latter portion of this week contained the words from a popular reggae song back in the Caribbean. Specifically the words were, “Haven’t I told you Jah go bless us, and make us strong..”. On Friday, a friend instant messaged me and queried the use of the name Jah in my nick, as opposed to the full name, Jehovah. Their query was particularly related to the shortening of the word Jehovah (to Jah), and the possible disrespect to our Lord, that this might connote. This was all under the assumption that Jehovah, and not Jah, is a name used to refer to our Lord in the Bible.

Being very confident in the authorized (and not disrespectful) use of Jah as a shortened version of Jehovah (I had this discussion with someone a few years back), to respond to their query, I quickly did a (online) search of the Bible. To my surprise however, I could not find Jah! At this point, I must admit, I started to sweat a bit, because (1) Jah is commonly used by Rastafarians in a slightly different context (the song above is sung by a Rastafarian), (in using the words of the song in my nick, I assumed my meaning of Jah instead); and (2) simply put, disrespecting our Lord is not something I’m too keen on doing!

After searching a bit more, to my comfort I found the name Jah, neatly tucked away in the (“old school”) King James Version (we were initially only searching NIV and NKJV). After discovering this, I also remembered a few other names that are commonly used to refer to, or represent God’s name so I decided to dedicate this week’s TFTW to them. Below I list the most common ones and where you may find them i.e. Bible versions and chapters/verses. Hope you find it useful! Oh, and it’s always important to remember The Trinity in discussions such as these! (For reference, I used BibleGateway as the main source of information.)

LORD – (this should need no justification!) (notice it is capitalized)

JEHOVAH - Psalm 83:17-18, Isaiah 12:1-3, Isaiah 26:3-5 (KJV) (notice it is capitalized)

JAH - Psalm 68:3-5 (KJV) (notice it is capitalized)

YHWH – seems to be Hebrew for LORD. For example as a footnote for LORD in Exodus 6:3 (NKJV), they write, "Hebrew YHWH, traditionally Jehovah" (Ref). Also, in Exodus 6:2 (NLT), it states, “I am Yahweh—'the Lord.'[a]”; the footnote for [a] reads, “Yahweh is a transliteration of the proper name YHWH that is sometimes rendered “Jehovah”; in this translation it is usually rendered “the Lord” (note the use of small capitals)” (Ref)

Yahweh - Exodus 6:1-3, Exodus 17:14-16, Exodus 33:18-20, Exodus 34:4-6 (NLT)

YAH - Psalm 68:3-5, Isaiah 12:1-3, Isaiah 26:3-5, Isaiah 38:10-12 (NKJV) (notice it is capitalized)

 

It’s only a few names, but I think these are the most commonly agreed ones. For further study, you may also want to have a look at a few other names (some of which are Hebrew) i.e.: Yeshua, Abba (Aramaic for Father - Mark 14:35-37 - NIV), El-Shaddai (El-Shaddai, which means “God Almighty,” is the name for God used in Gen 17:1; 28:3; 35:11; 43:14; 48:3. - Exodus 6:2-4 - NLT), and Adonai.

Have a blessed week!

(Thanks for the idea for the TFTW topic J.H.)

"Life is hard, and then you die", these are the words that I have been constantly tempted to confess over the last few weeks. It seems like every time things look as if they could go my way, a HUGE roadblock emerges that makes my life, just, plain HARD! Last Friday was the straw.. no wait, the last 200-ton brick, that broke the camels back. While attempting to get a necessary (and arduous) task done over the last few days, I made a silly mistake, which ended up costing me time, money, and "peace of mind". I prayed beforehand for things to go fine, after things flopped, I asked God all day that things would get better, but in my opinion things got progressively worse. And unfortunately, there will likely be setbacks from my mistake. At that time, what else could I scream but, "Life is hard, and then (..after a few years..) you die!"?

Some of you may comment, "But Jason, you write these TFTWs every week, and you have even commented on issues such as this before and highlighted options to help during these times; why didn't you call them to mind when in the scenario on Friday?" My reply? I tried. I tried very hard, but with barely any sight of light at the end of the tunnel, I simply lost it. I got frustrated, and lost it.

After explaining my situation to a friend on that same day, I got a text reply saying, "Just remember this. God is always in control. Whether situations go the way we want or not. He is in control." Guess what.. For some reason, this really helped. It proved an eye-opener, and I immediately started to think, well, then, there must be some purpose for my troubles, maybe a lesson to be learnt? The timing wasn't right? (God's time IS perfect!) Or maybe it is to teach me that when I'm faced with constant pain, instead of throwing my hands in the air and shouting, "Life is hard, and then you die", I should confess, "I have tried to do things right, however things have not worked out, but Lord, with your help, I'll try again!"

When we're faced with problems, or sticky situations, even when we think we've perfectly done "our part", or "all we can do", let's remember Bible verses like this.."but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5) Yes.. there is purpose to our struggles and tribulations. Let's remember this well.

May we all have a great week, regardless of what is thrown at us!

As this Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, which signifies the start of Lent, I thought that this week's post would be based on Lent. I hope you find it useful.

Lent - A Time Set Aside

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And he fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterward he was hungry. Matthew 4:1-2

Just as we set aside time to spiritually prepare for Christmas Day, it makes sense to set aside time to prepare for the two most important days of the Christian year. Lent offers us an opportunity to come to terms with the human condition we may spend the rest of the year running from and it brings our need for a Savior to the forefront. Like Advent, Lent is a time to open the doors of our hearts a little wider and understand our Lord a little deeper, so that when Good Friday and eventually Easter comes, it is not just another day at church but an opportunity to receive the overflowing of graces God has to offer.

But unlike the childlike joy associated with the season of Advent, with it's eager anticipation of the precious baby Jesus, Lent is an intensely penitential time as we examine our sinful natures and return to the God we have, through our own rebelliousness, hurt time and again. Lent is also an opportunity to contemplate what our Lord really did for us on the Cross - and it wasn't pretty. But ultimately, the purpose of Lent does not stop at sadness and despair - it points us to the hope of the Resurrection and the day when every tear will be dried (Rev. 21:3). [Full Lent 101 article here.]

Have a great week all, and I hope to see you in Church on Wednesday getting the cross marked on your forehead. taa

I'm well aware that in the hustles and bustles of life, we often forget a number of simple things that glorify God. Below therefore, I've slightly modified an email I received, to outline some "Daily Rules from God". They are quite short, but still rather critical to all our daily lives.

1. Wake Up. Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up. The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7

3. Shut Up. Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up... For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up... To the Lord.
"I can do EVERYTHING through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up... For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path."
Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up... Your Prayers.
"Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING." Philippians 4:6

Wake up, dress up, shut up, stand up, look up, reach up, and Lift up.

Good day,

This week's TFTW is a simple photo. I wrote the words in the snow today, and I had the idea that this pic may be used as a desktop background (it's 1600x1200) for all of you who are interested.

I hope you enjoy!

This morning as I was walking home from my Sunday church service at Uni, I passed by a poster on one of the walls that read,

"If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple." - Jesus in Luke 14:26

Warwick Atheists

These posters in general aren't unusual, but it's interesting every now and then to pause for a moment and have a read. In this particular poster, because they bolded and enlarged the font of the word "hate", I guess their aim was to make this passage seem like a rather nasty one. After all, Jesus, encouraging to hate one's father and mother, wife and children?

Fortunately, we don't have to worry too much about this passage, and view it out of context as done above, because we are fully aware of Jesus' two new commandments, i.e. "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself." Matthew 22:37-39.

In special response to their poster however, my trusty study Bible [New Spirit Filled Life Bible] had a few comments on that passage, that are of great importance. It notes "A disciple must subordinate all earthly relationships to loyalty to Christ. Jesus' remark is an example of Hebrew hyperbole to emphasize the subject being discussed. To hate one's family is therefore not a command or statement of face but a way of expressing the importance of allegiance to Him." .. let that sink in for a second or two..

Now, let's briefly consider the word "hyperbole". You being intelligent folks know what it means, but let's look it up in Oxford Dictionary anyway.. Ah! Found it! (I adore the Internet; oed.com!) It states, "A figure of speech consisting in exaggerated or extravagant statement, used to express strong feeling or produce a strong impression, and not intended to be understood literally" (Oxford). Hmm, need we continue? Especially noting that Jesus did so commonly speak in parables?

As stated in the comments section of my Bible (shown above), the aim of this passage is to express the importance of allegiance to Jesus. Jesus is not telling you to hate your parents, or friends and love Him instead! If that were the case, why would the Lord (i) have a commandment about honouring your parents? i.e. Exodus 20:12, or (ii) in the New Testament command that we love our neighbour as ourselves? i.e. Matthew 22:39. In this passage our Lord is speaking to the importance of following Him, being totally committed to Him, and allowing Him to work His purpose for our lives.

If you ever come across one of these posters, or any comments similar, which attempt to somewhat distort what you know to be true about Christ, take a moment to let it sink it, ask Christ to guide your response. He may ask you to respond to the poster/comment, or He may direct you to your Bible for further analysis of the topic. Listen for His guidance and allow Him to work through you!

Have a great week all!

"My Comforter, my All in All, Here in the love of Christ I stand" - In Christ Alone hymn!

Peace, mercy, justice.

The world needs works of mercy and justice:

- 750 million people go to bed hungry each night
- 2.1 billion people live on less than £1 a day

.. not works of war and destruction:

- World military spending for 2007 was £680 billion - that is £102 for each person in the world
- 26 million people were forced to leave their homes as a result of conflict in 2007

Jesus said, "love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; ... For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect." Matthew 5:43-48.

Somewhere along the line, we all lost the plot. I beg you to light your candle for peace; peace in your life, and peace especially in war-torn areas where war, death, hatred overshadow Jesus's words, and any notions of peace, mercy, justice and love.

(Figures above sourced from a Pax Christi pamphlet.)

This week's article is very related to the one from last week. I cover this topic again because this week I had a very interesting conversation with a fellow Christian colleague in which the following question emerged, "How do I tell people about Christ, and about what they maybe should and should not be doing, when my life itself is far from perfect?" This is a good question because if you don't practice what you preach (in the general sense) how do you expect others to do take your words seriously? Hypocrisy I believe is the term!

Before answering this question, I must say that I reflected on my life, "am I perfect?" I asked myself. My reply? "No at all!" Then, I put forward my point to my colleague, "Well since I'm not perfect either, I guess I should stop my TFTWs (i.e. these weekly articles)! After all, how can I speak when I am a sinner?" Or maybe, let's go to the Bible, is it not Paul, one of the greatest evangelist that said, "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice."? What if Paul, or any of the other evangelist had just given up because they knew they were prone to sin? Well, we would surely be lacking a few books of the Bible!

The point is that yes, we sin. But as was commented last week...

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.

Beyond this, as I explained to my colleague, we must continuously work towards making ourselves better; evaluating our lives, seeing where we should be working on, and ACTIVELY working on these areas. One way to view it is that being a Christian is not an end in itself, it's more of a path we walk every second of everyday. Instead of not being able to talk to people because we ourselves are not perfect, lets (i) remember that no-one is perfect, (ii) take courage in the fact that we are working on our imperfections, and (iii) let the love and care we have for our friends, transcend our worries about being hypocritical in this regard.

Have a great week!

The following poem has probably been through millions of inboxes in its lifetime, but it thoroughly exemplifies my thoughts on being a Christian.. so I post it on the Internet once more below.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!

Being a Christian, is not easy. Because of our human nature we stumble and almost implicitly tend to do things contrary to what we should do. Often our hearts will convict us, and the Law (from the OT) condemn us, but in those times, let's remember that somewhere out there, in our grasps, is God's good grace through his son Jesus Christ.

I wish you the greatest of things in 2009. May the good Lord keep you.

 

May God bless you and keep you through this wonderful season!

Hi all!

Ah, it's that joyous time of the year once more. If I were back home, I'd be either painting, carefully decorating the house with Christmas lights, or busy cleaning up the dust that has accumulated on furniture, ornaments, or windows, over the last 11 months! Or, better yet, I'd be doing all three, as my Dad and Mom can attest to! I'm sure many of you will sympathize.

Even though beautifying one's house is necessary however, we all know it's not what CHRISTmas is really about. Actually, this past week I experienced a very comforting albeit fleeting event that can be linked into the meaning of CHRISTmas, and I'd like to share it with you for this week's TFTW. The event occurred when I went to a CHRISTmas supper. At this supper, attendants were from various parts of the world, and undoubtedly, numerous religions and cultures were represented.

After we ate, song sheets were distributed and we were informed that we'd be singing some CHRISTmas carols. To be honest, I can't remember which exact ones we sang but a number of them boldly acknowledged and glorified our Christ. Here it was that people from across the world, from religions and cultures that transcend my imagination, all sang in one joyous song to our Lord. That, felt, great. And I do know... Yes, it may be fleeting, yes, people may just be singing and not understanding, yes, words must be supported by action. But, CHRISTmas was the conduit for this gathering, and for this unity. Isn't that one of Christ's purposes on this earth? :-)

I leave you with a few words from one of the songs I believe we sang..

Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris'n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" written by Charles Wesley 1739

Have a blessed week, and a great CHRISTmas season.

One by one, my friends seem to be hanging up their boots (or high heels) and entering in to the marriage realm. "Tying the knot" seems to have somehow infiltrated its way into my generation! Rather appropriately therefore, a few weeks ago, a friend directed me to an article called Who Should I Marry? This article takes a Christian perspective (with references to the Bible) on the subject, and even though some of its points you may find debatable, it provides excellent food for thought on this very important matter. Some of the questions it seeks to address are: Should I marry at all? Must a marry a Christian? And, So who is a believer?

As some of you may be close to taking the plunge, or even just considering entering a relationship, I suggest a peek at this article, it may just help answer some critical questions.

Have a great week!

I'm sure most of us have heard the "being doers of the word, and not hearers only" (James 1:21-25), but do you remember the passage in the next chapter which focuses on having faith, without works? Well, take a quick read below..

"What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of  you says to them, 'Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,' but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it  it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. ... You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe - and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?
And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." - James 2:14-26

I find this part of Scripture profound because it emphasizes that faith in God is NOT enough; good works (or actions) must proceed from that faith. An interesting, yet scary analogy that is used is that even demons believe in one God (thus have faith), therefore if you just have faith (without works), what makes you different from demons!

Works, actions, doing, these activities together with faith are the key. You can be a hearer, and believer, but being a doer is a critical justification of our faith. James ends by stating, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also". This coming week let's concentrate on putting our faith and belief in our Lord in action. This will surely make our Lord smile.

As Mr. Waters, the cartoon's creator comments, "This world can seem as a dark, impenetrable jungle of various doctrines and beliefs. But, we have the map of God's Word, and we have a guide, the Holy Spirit, to help us find the path of truth." (Joyful 'toons)

Let's keep both - the Word and the Spirit - close in our hearts and minds today. Have a great week.

This week at Mass, I received a rather intriguing notice/reminder of Christian core values, and the likely prerequisites to entering the "Pearly Gates" come Judgement day. The reading supporting these core values is taken from Matthew 25:31-46, but I focus mainly on 33-40 below.

And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'
"Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'

From this passage I can see how an astute person might quickly conclude that one can get to heaven by just practicing these actions, as opposed to following the typical rule-base for heaven, I.e. religion, faith, or belief. Actually, my study Bible (New Spirit-Filled Life Bible-NKJV) has some notes on this scripture which also somewhat subscribe to this mindset. It states, "The return of the Lord will usher in a judgement, which will divide people. The judgement will be based on moral character, and the character is revealed by charitable deeds or the lack of them. Outward evidence demonstrates inner righteousness or unrighteousness."

Well, now, I'm a bit confused. If I am charitable, and maintain an upstanding, highly moral character, however don't explicitly subscribe to Christianity (for e.g. believing in the risen Christ), may I still go to heaven? Especially considering, for example the words of John 3:16 (which can be seen to stress belief in Christ)? Or, conversely, does brotherly love, which is so critical to our religion (God is Love, remember?), transcend these other precursors to entering the Pearly Gates? What about this.. Does a person's religious maturity and practices form the critical issue, or rather their innate care for their brothers, known or unknown?

This is a crucial issue in our religion, and therefore forms this week's food for thought.

Have a blessed week!

This week's article is an excerpt from "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. I hope you enjoy.

"God's ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but character development. He wants you to grow up spiritually and become like Christ. Becoming like Christ does not mean losing your personality or becoming a mindless clone. God created your uniqueness, so he certainly doesn't want to destroy it. Christlikeness is all about transforming your character, not your personality.

God wants you to develop the kind of character described in the beatitudes of Jesus, the fruit of the Spirit, Paul's great chapter on love, and Peter's list of characteristics of an effective and productive life. Every time you forget that character is one of God's purposes for your life, you will become frustrated by your circumstances. You'll wonder, "Why is this happening to me? Why am I having such a difficult time?" One answer is that life is supposed to be difficult! It's what enables us to grow. Remember, earth is not heaven!

Many Christians misinterpret Jesus' promise of the 'abundant life' to mean perfect health, a comfortable lifestyle, constant happiness, full realization of your dreams, and instant relief from problems through faith and prayer. In a word, they expect the Christian life to be easy. They expect heaven on earth.

This self-absorbed perspective treats God as a genie who simply exists to serve you in your selfish pursuit of personal fulfillment. But God is not your servant, and if you fall for the idea that life is supposed to be easy, either you will become severely disillusioned or you will life in denial of reality.

Never forget that life is not about you! You exist for God's purposes, not vice versa. Why would God provide heaven on earth when he's planned the real thing for you in eternity? God gives us our time on earth to build and strengthen our character for heaven."

I hope you found this excerpt of use, and that you'll remember it the next time you ask, "Why am I having such a difficult time?". Have a great week. :-)

Today, and in this coming week, I'd like us all to meditate on a few simple, but powerful lines of scripture. The Bible is so straight-forward in this regard, any commentary I make would only act to devalue its beautiful message.

Psalm 103:6-14 (New King James Version)

6 The LORD executes righteousness
         And justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known His ways to Moses,
         His acts to the children of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,
         Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
9 He will not always strive with us,
         Nor will He keep His anger forever.
10 He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
         Nor punished us according to our iniquities.
11 For as the heavens are high above the earth,
So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
12 As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
13 As a father pities his children,
So the LORD pities those who fear Him.
14 For He knows our frame;
         He remembers that we are dust.

Have a great week and God bless!

Sunday after Sunday, via the TFTWs, I try to send you some scripture-inspired articles for you to mull over during the coming week. Well, this week, instead of sticking to this one-way communication, I would like to mix things up a bit. I simply would like to know how you are, and how's life treating you. You can be as concise or verbose as you like.

I'm doing this especially because I've noted that the TFTW may be taking the dodgy path of a forward (email) i.e. something sent "just because". And, if you know me, you'd know that I don't particularly like forwards at all, particularly the seemingly Christian ones that sneakily try to guilt persons into spreading the word. I spread the word because I care, so once again I ask, how are you, and how's life treating you my friend?

Have a great week!

 

When things are good, we're protected, when things get rough, we're protected, when we think no-one else cares, He cares. We don't have to be the president, to be a VIP in His eyes! As Jesus said "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." (Matt 10:29-31).

Let's maintain faith and trust in God, He will never fail us. Have a great week!

Qualities Needed in Trials
So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Doers—Not Hearers Only
Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. - James 1:19-27 (NKJV)

Reflecting on these words, many topics come to mind, however the one I'd like to focus on this week is being doers of The Word, and not hearers only. It's like what I tell people when they proudly confess that they are Christians, and believe in Jesus Christ; it's not simply reading your Bible, and being on the exec committee of your church group.. oh it's soo much more. To believe in Him, we must live how he would want us to live. When we read the Bible, it's not just a meaningless duty, we can read to learn how to live. By reading the Bible, we see what to do and what not to do, we see our sins, in effect, we see how we should live our God-given lives. Yet often, we read then, put down the Bible, and sometimes, forget, or do what we think benefits us, mangling the Bible and its words. This should not be so, and this week I would like to invite you to pick a passage in the Bible, and try your best to live it out - every second of everyday, whether it be 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 or Philippians 4:6!

Let's take that step, to show God we love Him, as He - time and time again - shows how much he loves us. Have a great week, and God bless.

Good day! This week we focus on one, simple statement..

"For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required" Luke 12:48

This quote has pulled me through many a tough time and I know if you remember it, it will do the very same for you. To me it says, "Jason, you are greatly blessed, so be mindful that sometimes, much will be asked of you, in terms of patience, faith, hope, and/or strength, in varying aspects of your life." Therefore, when tough times come, I try to remember those great blessings that have been placed on me, and use them, and trust in God for things to be OK.

Have a great week all. :-)

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

I hope you enjoyed, and that you will take your candle and go light your world.

Recently on a visit to another city, I witnessed number of persons scattered about the main streets begging for money. At one point I passed by this gentleman, and noting his apparent ill-fortune, I decided that I simply must 'give'. As I headed back his way a few minutes later therefore, I fished in my pocket for a pound or two to make ready to deposit into his hat. As I got closer to where he was, surprisingly, up popped the guy, he put a beer can to his head, and then quickly walked away, leaving the few pence in his hat on the pavement. I really wasn't sure what to make of this i.e. whether the significance for me was in the consuming of beer, or in the small donations and hat left behind.

The point of me recapping this little story however is in neither of those two final observations. My reason for this story stems from us as Christians giving to others, freely and openly of whatever we have, even though, persons out there will be very willing to prey on the kindness of our hearts. I'm sure we all have read 1 John 3:16-20 at some stage but just to recap it states:

By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things.

Now, please don't take this (i.e. giving) to the other extreme, but instead let's remember those out there in need, and how much brighter we could make someone's life by giving to them - of whatever we have, e.g. clothes, food, help, advice, or money - today.

Have a great week. :-)

Whilst taking the bus last week I overheard a rather thought-provoking conversation between a teenage girl and a bloke, likely in his twenties. At the point I got on the bus, they were discussing smoking, and the guy was commenting that he's fasting so he doesn't smoke before 7:30pm. The girl, being a smoker herself, was shocked at how harsh this was and inquired more about the guy's reason i.e. religion. When it was his turn to ask questions, he asked the girl, what religion she belonged to, and without much hesitation she replied, "Me? I don't have any. I'm just, .. normal".

For the remainder of the bus ride, her comments had me thinking about religion in general, and how un-normal and eccentric religious people really must be. After all, some of us believe that thousands of years ago God sent his only begotten son to earth to die for our sins. And that through that sacrificial death of one so perfect, we all would be forgiven (provided we repent and ask for that forgiveness of course!). Some of us even take it another step further and believe that things like adultery, fornication, idolatry, revelries, drunkenness, smoking and the like are sins, and can actually cause someone from inheriting the kingdom of God. "How crazy is that!" I thought to myself.

Well, I don't know about you, but I must confess, I'm one of those crazy ones, and to be frank, I love being un-normal. What about you? What side of the fence are you on?

Have a great week all. Love you!

This week's TFTW is taken from Friday's Our Daily Bread devotion. As I read it I thought on it for a while and all-in-all, was inspired by its message. I'm sure you will be as well. Here's the article..

Roots or Shoots - Julie Ackerman.

Have a blessed week!

Variety, she is the spice of life!

Therefore, for this week's thought, I'm including the Tim Hughes- Here I Am To Worship video. It's a lovely song, and I think this video was excellently put together - it's based on The Passion.

I hope you enjoy it, and also that you have a beautiful week.

"Will I ever get this right?". This is what I asked myself this morning, as I managed to confuse myself for the second week running, about exactly how communion would be administered to me at church. See what going overseas for a bit, then returning home can do to your brain? lol.

Anyway, I ask myself this same question a lot in my walk as a Christian. Often I go through trials and problems and often I must admit that I waver. Even though I don't fully doubt, I feel a weakness in me, a weakness that probably would not be there if I trusted in the Lord completely like I should. Then, in the end, once things have passed, of course everything works out fine, sometimes I even see why the Lord let things happen as they did, and I aptly exclaim, "Wow! That's some divine planning! I hadn't a clue that other situation was important!". But then the question hits me, "Will I ever get this right?".. Will I ever do what is right and fully put aside what I know to be wrong? Will I ever trust in God completely even when things are as clear as mud? Will I ever be the Christian that God knows I can be?

To be honest, these questions usually make me cringe! Sometimes however, on a lonely, quiet day, they catapult me into deep thought, which usually leads to critical self-evaluation. After all, to be a Christian means to grow, to learn more, to move pass what we were, to aim higher, and ultimately, as Paul alludes to in 1 Corinthians 11:1, to imitate Christ.

In summary, the life of a Christian isn't easy, or is it to be taken lightly - this we all know. It is hard work, sometimes we will falter, but the important things is to  immediately put things right. Self-evaluation is also necessary, and personally, I think it's a wise process to do often. In times where the question "Will I ever get this right?" arises, let's hold strong and reply, "With the strength of Christ we will!" After all, Philippians 4:13 in my Bible states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".. and I think we have the same Bible. :-)

Have a blessed week my friends.

People can (and will) influence your moods. They can do something nice and make you happy, or they can do the opposite cause you to be upset. Yesterday, the latter happened to me and I was definitely offset by that person and in my opinion, their obvious lack of manners. In these types of situations, one aspect alone is very important i.e. that you don't give root to any severe anger.

Last night as I heard Joel Osteen speaking on this same topic and he commented, "If someone cuts you off in traffic, say to the Lord, 'Lord I hope that person has a blessed day'". Or "if someone does something to offend you, ask the Lord to bless that person." This of course tends to be anything but our first reaction, but to put it simply, is it the right thing to do. By asking God to bless that person immediately, I believe it helps you to see the bigger picture and not allow people to so easily dictate your mood.

God also warns about carrying this anger with you in Ephesians when it is stated, "'Be angry, and do not sin' do not let the sun go down on your wrath". I will leave this verse with you, and pray that you have a blessed and HAPPY week.

Take care! :-)

With this 'toon, the cartoonist aptly comments, "Our own efforts to 'do our own thing', rather than what God has commanded us to do, will keep us from receiving the good things that God has for us" (Ref).

I don't think it can be said any better. Have a great week all and God bless!

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

These were the kind words recited to me as I wrestled with a couple of testing situations headed my way. None of which I seemed to have much, if any control over.

In situations such as these, it's so easy to get anxious, to worry, wonder why, and even if it gets extreme, just pause and laugh at how daunting things may appear (I must admit, I've laughed many-a-time). But in these situations, it is so very crucial that we grab hold of our faith and remember that, "all things work together for good to those who love God". No matter how bad or complex that situation seems, trust Him, pray to Him, and ask that His will be done (I consider all these things indications of "loving").

My situations are still impending, but I intend to follow my advice. In this week, if you're in the brink of frustration, anxiety, worry, or laughing at how daunting things seem, retreat to a silent place and say a quick prayer to the God you love. He's always listening.

Have a good one!

Check out this story...

One day while walking down the street a highly successful executive woman was tragically hit by a bus and she died. Her soul arrived up in heaven where she was met at the Pearly Gates by St. Peter himself. 'Welcome to Heaven,' said St.Peter. 'Before you get settled in though, it seems we have a problem. You see, strangely enough, we've never once had an executive make it this far and we're not really sure what to do with you.'

'No problem, just let me in.' said the woman.

'Well, I'd like to, but I have higher orders. What we're going to do is let you have a day in Hell and a day in Heaven and then you can choose whichever one you want to spend an eternity in.'

'Actually, I think I've made up my mind...I prefer to stay in Heaven', said the woman.

'Sorry, we have rules...' And with that St. Peter put the executive in an elevator and it went down-down-down to hell. The doors opened and she found herself stepping out onto the putting green of a beautiful golf course. In the distance was a country club and standing in front of her were all her friends - fellow executives that she had worked with and they were all dressed in evening gowns and cheering for her. They ran up and kissed her on both cheeks and they talked about old times. They played an excellent round of golf and at night went to the country club where she enjoyed an excellent steak and lobster dinner. She met the Devil who was actually a really nice guy (kinda cute) and she had a great time telling jokes and dancing. She was having such a good time that before she knew it, it was time to leave. Everybody shook her hand and waved good- bye as she got on the elevator.

The elevator went up-up-up and opened back up at the Pearly Gates and found St. Peter waiting for her. 'Now it's time to spend a day in heaven,' he said.

So she spent the next 24 hours lounging around on clouds and playing the harp and singing. She had a great time and before she knew it her 24 hours were up and St. Peter came and got her.

'So, you've spent a day in hell and you've spent a day in heaven. Now you must choose your eternity,' he said.

The woman paused for a second and then replied, 'Well, I never thought I'd say this, I mean, Heaven has been really great and all, but I think I had a better time in Hell.'

So St. Peter escorted her to the elevator and again she went down-down-down back to Hell. When the doors of the elevator opened she found herself standing in a desolate wasteland covered in garbage and Filth. She saw her friends were dressed in rags and were picking up the garbage and putting it in sacks. The Devil came up to her and put his arm around her. 'I don't understand,' stammered the woman, 'yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and a country club and we ate lobster and we danced and had a great time. Now all there is a wasteland of garbage and all my friends look miserable.'

The Devil looked at her and smiled. 'Yesterday we were recruiting you; today you're staff.'

 

Ha! This just goes to show that at times 'hell' or its precursor, sin, does seem like the sweetest things ever! However, don't be fooled my friends, don't be fooled! There is a price we pay.

Thank you for this story P.

I wish you all a great week!

Every time I look back
And every time I think back
On all the stuff I've been through
I've prayed through I cried through
And then I tried you and just
When I was about to fall
Your love caught me when your name I called
Jesus you keep on lookin' out for me!

Those are the some of the lyrics from a rather popular song by gospel artist Kirk Franklin called Lookin' Out For Me. The reason I've included them in the preamble to this TFTW is because I think it's extremely important for us to remember that Jesus is looking out for us, in whatever situation we manage to entangle ourselves, and wherever we venture on this little earth.

To give you a brief true story of my experience with this fact, I recall when I started my current course in jolly ol' England. For the first few months, it was a bit testing academic-wise, but it was especially testing at times, because this course is very individual- as opposed to group- or class-based. The tough time here was getting used to working largely alone and in a climate where I didn't know anyone, and there were NO Bajan (Barbadian), furthermore Caribbean people in sight! As one can imagine, this also meant that I had some serious work to do if there was to be any hope for Christian fellowship.

That is until one rosy day, I heard a familiar accent, from behind me in a university-held seminar. To be honest, until that moment, I really did not know or readily accept, that Bajans had "an accent"! Anyway, through that lovely lady, I met another lovely lady and from her, I met a few other lovely people. Now, I'm sure you're wondering, what's the link with Christianity, how is Jesus involved? Well, it turns out that those two initial ladies are Christians, and us three regularly meet and for casual discussion which usually entails chats about Christianity and other relevant and related issues.

To be honest, it's great! And whenever I think about it all I can do is smile (). To meet people: (a) from Barbados; (b) who share the faith; and (c) who are actually doing the same course (different fields of study though) and have been here for a bit so can "show me the ropes" whenever need be.

Now tell me, considering that reality, can't I shout to the top of my lungs,

JESUS YOU KEEP ON LOOKIN' OUT FOR ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a great week all! And of course, "Me" really means "Us", I just wanted to keep Kirk's line. :-)

PS. This post is dedicated to those two ladies, you both know who you are and I IMAGINE you know that I appreciate you.

For this week, I thought I would do something rather different (variety is the spice of life right?), so, I've chosen some light Christian humour to portray this week's TFTW! I hope you enjoy, and of course, grasp the meaning!

Now to the story...

Jesus and Satan were having an on-going argument about who was better on the computer. They had been going at it for days, and frankly God was tired of hearing all the bickering.
Finally fed up, God said, 'THAT'S IT! I have had enough. I am going to set up a test that will run for two hours, and from those results, I will judge who does the better job.'
So Satan and Jesus sat down at the keyboards and typed away.
They moused.
They faxed.
They e-mailed.
They e-mailed with attachments.
They downloaded.
They did spreadsheets!
They wrote reports.
They created labels and cards.
They created charts and graphs.
They did some genealogy reports
They did every job known to man.
Jesus worked with heavenly efficiency and Satan was faster than hell.
Then, ten minutes before their time was up, lightning suddenly flashed across the sky, thunder rolled, rain poured, and, of course, the power went off..
Satan stared at his blank screen and screamed every curse word known in the underworld.
Jesus just sighed.
Finally the electricity came back on, and each of them restarted their computers. Satan started searching frantically, screaming:
'It's gone! It's all GONE! 'I lost everything when the power went out!'
Meanwhile, Jesus quietly started printing out all of his files from the past two hours of work..
Satan observed this and became irate.
'Wait!' he screamed. 'That's not fair! He cheated! How come he has all his work and I don't have any?'
God just shrugged and said,

JESUS SAVES

ha! Have a great week all!! And thanks for this K.!

For the last two weeks I've been trying to compile a list of favourite Bible verses, based on submissions from my readers. The purpose of this was to give you the opportunity to share your favourite verse with others. What I would like each of us to do this week therefore, is to chose another person's verse and meditate on it. If possible, I suggest picking one that you are not too familiar with, I think this will prove more fruitful. Below, I list all the verses I received (and the initials of the respective contributors).

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1
K.H.

Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. - Philippians 4:5-6
M.C.

... You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.” - John 8:57-58 (NRSV)
A.K.

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. - James 5:13
D.C.

Commit thy way unto the Lord: trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. - Psalms 37:5
J.R.

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:13
N.G.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. - Psalms 23
K.R.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. - Jeremiah 29:11-12
K.B.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)
J.N.

Remember, chose one that is unfamiliar, and research it if you must. Have a blessed week. :-)

Lastly, many thanks to the contributors and readers alike.

Beautifully illustrated. Enough said!

Have a great week!

Last week I attended a social gathering to celebrate the birthday of a colleague. Whilst there, I spoke to a few people briefly, and eventually settled into a steady conversation with two other persons. After exchanging general questions for a couple minutes, I was shocked by one of the ladies there, as out of nowhere she asked, "Are you a Christian?" Normally.. to be honest, this would not shock me because as most of you would know, I usually wear a wooden cross outside my shirt, so naturally, she could make that deduction. Today however - and for no particular reason - my cross was under my shirt and completely hidden from view!

As her question had me rather intrigued, I replied and then asked what prompted her question. I honestly can not remember all that she said but two things I do recall that she mentioned was that, (a) she had not seen me drink (alcohol) and (b) I didn't at any point pop away for a smoke. She may have also commented on my mannerisms but I am not quite sure.

The point of this little story is that regardless of where you are or what you are doing, persons should be able identify us as Christians, and showpieces of our Lord. That night I don't remember doing anything religious at all, not even the slightest comment, however somehow that girl made the connection!

We must always be cognisant of the FACT that we are God's ambassadors! And trust me - as we have seen from my little example above - people (non-Christians in particular) ARE watching us. They want to see what's the difference between us and them, they are interested in what's so good about our God! When I ponder on this topic, I always remember a nice, albeit childish phrase that states, "God has no hands but our hands, God has no feet but our feet..", i.e. we are God's tools!

So please, this week let's remember that we are ambassadors for our God in everything that we do, from driving, to going out of your way to help someone in need. Below I leave you with the more official, and adult version of the phrase included above..

"God has no hands but our hands to do his work today;
God has no feet but our feet to lead others in his way;
God has no voice but our voice to tell others how he died;
and, God has no help but our help to lead them to his side."

(Some attribute this to Saint Teresa of Avila)

Have a great week and God bless!

Last week we spoke on "why" God seems distant at times, today we will cover "what we should do" when that happens. Again, the main point of reference for this discussion will be "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. So, what should our response be when God seems distant?

We Praise Him: Mr. Warren writes, "How do you praise God when you don't understand what's happening in your life and God is silent? .. You do what Job did: 'Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: 'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.'[1]'" That is, you keep praising Him all the way! God is so pleased when we keep praising Him regardless of what happens! This shows that we are holding tight to our faith and is exactly why God is testing us in the first place. I know this is not easy, but our God is very wise and patient, and appreciates how tough this can be for us. Therefore, He gives us many chances to show that we are ready to "step up to the plate". When we make this step, it signifies that we are maturing in our relationship with Him.

We tell God exactly how we feel: Rick in [PDL] states that pouring out our heart - including our doubt, anger, fear, grief, confusion and questions - to God is in itself a strong statement of faith. One of the reasons I think this is done is to show God that we regard Him, not only as our God, but also as a close friend. We implicitly: (a) show belief in Him; (b) show that we know He is there for us; and (c) express that we know that He loves when we are open, honest and hold Him as our rock and refuge. I think these things make God smile.

We focus on who God is - his unchanging nature: God never changes, from the beginning He was for you and it will remain that way! To put it more eloquently, "Remind yourself what you know to be eternally true about God: He is good, he loves me, he is with me, he knows what I'm going through, he cares, and he has a good plan for my life. V. Raymond Edman said, 'NEVER doubt in the dark what God told you in the light.'" [PDL] Here are some verses in Job that shows this very point i.e. regardless of what happened to him, he still found things that he could praise God for; See [2,3,4,5,6,7].

We remember what God has already done for us: Last time I checked, God's son died for us. He died for You, the person sitting behind you, the person who's in the kitchen preparing a pot of Earl Grey tea, even the lady who nearly hit your car this morning! The fact is that Jesus Christ came, lived a perfect life and suffered a violent, ghastly death for every one of us. All for the purpose of rebuilding that bridge to the Father, and enabling us to one day be with Him in heaven. Mr. Warren sums things up nicely in the following; "Jesus gave up everything so you could have everything. He died so you could live forever. That alone is worthy of your continual thanks and praise. Never again should you wonder what you have to be thankful for." [PDL]

This brings to and end our extended discussion, I thank you for sharing in it with me and wish you a blessed week. Before I go I would like to leave what I think is a totally appropriate statement to take away from our discussion that perfectly exemplifies the type of maturity we should all be aiming for. It is from Job 13:15 and states:

"God may kill me, but still I will trust him."

Amen! Have a great week!

Sometime ago I had considered writing a post on this topic however yesterday morning I read a very insightful chapter in "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren that addressed this issue perfectly, so I will adopt that work as the main basis for this week's thought (aka TFTW). Today I will present Part 1 which will look at the "why" at times God will seem distant. Next week for Part 2, we'll cover the "what we should do" when it happens.

To be honest, the "why" is all broken down into a single core point.

Separation is vital for the development of our faith. To mature in our friendship with God, He will test it with periods of seeming separation - times when it feels as if He has abandoned or forgotten us.

As Rick notes, "When you are a baby Christian, God gives you a lot of confirming emotions and often answers the most immature, self-centered prayers - so you'll know he exists. But as you grow in faith, he will wean you of these dependencies." Moving on from this, our God is concerned with one main question; "Will you continue to love, trust, obey and worship God, even when you have no sense of his presence or visible evidence of his work in your life?" This is a key question to determine our spiritual maturity.

Here it is important to consider that you are not the only one being tested, even if when you look at fellow Christians, all seems well in their lives. No no, don't think you are alone at all, we all are tested! From those just passing that 'baby Christian' phase to those who are far along in the Christian path. If we reflect on the Bible, we see examples of the latter in both David and Job. Surely everyone remembers the story of Job, but even David - probably one of the closest to God - struggled: "Yet David frequently complained of God's apparent absence: 'Lord, why are you standing aloof and far away? Why do you hide when I need you the most?'[1]  'Why have you forsaken me? Why do you remain so distant? Why do you ignore my cries for help?'[2] 'Why have you abandoned me?'[3]"

But we know as did David, that God would never leave us or forsake us [4,5] so WHY does He seem so distant?! My brothers and sisters in Christ, it is all for the development of our faith. The email signature of one of my friends comes to mind as it notes, "The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials". The Biblical - and likely original - version of this phrase can be found in James 1:2-4, as it states, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing". How true is that!

So, it's all about our development and maturity, all about the edification of that relationship with our God. When faced with trials myself, and not knowing where to go, or what to do, I often remark, "God knows what's best for me, much much better than I do anyway!" Therefore, let's just keep loving, obeying, worshipping and trusting Him to direct us and carry us!

Have a great week and Lord willing, we will continue this discussion next time with Part 2.

Update: Here's the link to Part 2!

This week's TFTW is related specifically to a comment posted on my blog regarding sin and forgiveness, and the fact that 'the blood of Jesus Christ covers all sins, ... and all we gotta do is turn to Him and ask for forgiveness and move away from the sin' (Source). To best exemplify this point, I have chosen the graphic below..

I think this fits some of us - myself included - perfectly at times, but we must learn to try our best to focus on the scripture and move away from that sin. I urge you to meditate on this thought during this week.

Tell me, what was your church sermon about on Sunday? Or.. if you did not make it to church last weekend, what about the last time you went! What was that sermon about! Surely you can remember! I've heard a few people say the sermon is one of the main reasons they attend church; the sermon is really the "meat" of that early morning outing. Therefore again I ask, what was your last sermon about?

To be honest, I personally do not remember pass the Wednesday in the same week! And this is not something I am too proud of at all! Actually, at times I it concerns me greatly. Once or twice I must admit that I asked myself, "well Jason, what's the PURPOSE of going!" Luckily I came across the following story sometime subsequently and it fixed me right up! Check it out below! If you have seen it already, please just give it another look over, it really is worth that at least.

A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.

"I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons.  But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them..

So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."

This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor.  It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:

"I've been married for 30 years now.  In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals.  But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals.

But I do know this...

They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work.  If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today.

Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"

Point taken indeed! So, I emphasise, don't give up because you seem not to remember or because at times, it all seems in vain. Our minds are amazing things and you'll be surprised what they remember when you find yourself in certain testing or difficult situations.

Have a great week!

 

Can you portray it any better than that? Have a great week!

Our Daily Bread April 18 2008: "We should never get the idea that our sins are taken lightly by the Lord. But when we acknowledge our guilt with true repentance, God is ready to forgive because of what Jesus did on the cross. It's up to us to accept it."

As I read this I thought, "well this is a bit vague, what really is 'true repentance'?"

Well, let's see what Oxford says about the verb 'to repent'.. "feel or express sincere regret". Ok.. 'regret', that's slightly clearer. Merriam-Webster takes this a step further and states, "to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one's life". Wow, well that's straight to the point! But I think both definitions are required for a complete discussion of 'true repentance'.

Now, to analyse our findings. In Oxford's definition, we note To Feel or Express Sincere Regret. At its core, this simply means, to say sorry. To Confess your sin AS a sin, to God. Then, to Sincerely apologise for it. In sincerely saying sorry, I think this is where Merriam-Webster's definition comes into play and provides some key points in examining 'true repentance'.

Firstly, it stresses, to Turn From Sin. To be honest, this is much, much easier said than done. Even Paul stresses this point in his epistle to the Romans when he writes, "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice" (See Romans 7:13-25 NKJV). As descendants of Adam and Eve, humans, are considered by some as sinful by nature (See Psalms 51:5 but also this insightful discussion). Personally, I believe that If God had left us to our own devices, by now the Earth - as we know it - would be no more! But anyway, note: Turn From Sin i.e. Set your back to Sin i.e. Do not do Sin.

Next, Dedicate oneself to the amendment of one's life. This is self-explanatory, but be careful of just viewing it just as a sentence. The meaning goes considerably deeper than any normal sentence. Dedicating oneself to the correction of one's life, in my opinion means, putting your all into not doing that Sin again. I remember in a Sunday School session a few years ago, Mr. Best, our teacher then, said that to repent meant to make a 180 degree turn. In essence, whatever it was, DO NOT go down that path again. Again, I myself confess that this is far from an easy task. But, this I believe perfectly exemplifies 'true repentance'.

In closing, I think from this brief discussion that we've highlighted some of the most important tenets of  'true repentance'. These are: To Confess your sin; To Sincerely Apologise for it; To Turn From Sin; and finally to Make a 180 degree turn and NOT go down that path again.

I hope you find this discussion somewhat enlightening and even if you see fit, to spread The Word. Have a great week!

Long? Yes. Worth it? You bet'cha! Have a great week!!! (Thanks for the email Keisha!)

Hey there. I hope you had a good week!

This week I'd like to talk about giving thanks.

Now I'm the type of person that before every meal I either say a prayer of thanks, or say thanks in some other fashion. I remember sometime ago as I was about to have lunch with someone, whom I had also had breakfast with earlier that day, as I lowered my head - for the second time in the day, they remarked, "you ALWAYS say a prayer before eating?!". I think I replied, "I try to".

You see, in my opinion, the thing about saying prayers or giving thanks before every meal (or even snack), is just simply to express real, sincere THANKS. 'Thanks' here is aimed at the person who prepared the food, but also to God for providing it. Every time I am about to eat a meal, I want God to know that I fully appreciate Him putting it there. I think it's little things like this that make our God smile.

Now, I must also warn you! One thing you should be wary of is letting these prayers and signs of thanks become just a mundane, meaningless task that you just do out of habit. This, I don't think will make God smile. One tip I suggest is to do it differently, "spice it up" if you wish, keep things fresh.

So next time you're about to bite into that tasty or tasteless ________, try to remember who deserves thanks for it being there for you to enjoy.

Have a great week!

For this week...

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - Everything Has Its Time

"To everything there is a season,      
A time for every purpose under heaven:
      A time to be born,
And a time to die;
      A time to plant,
And a time to pluck what is planted;
      A time to kill,
And a time to heal;
      A time to break down,
And a time to build up;
      A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
      A time to mourn,
And a time to dance;
      A time to cast away stones,
And a time to gather stones;
      A time to embrace,
And a time to refrain from embracing;
      A time to gain,
And a time to lose;
      A time to keep,
And a time to throw away;
      A time to tear,
And a time to sew;
      A time to keep silence,
And a time to speak;
      A time to love,
And a time to hate;
      A time of war,
And a time of peace."

Remember..

To everything there is a season,      
A time for every purpose under heaven.

Have a blessed week!

Happy Easter!!!

I must say, in England the season of Easter seems a bit more publicised and widely - dare I remark - 'accepted', than it is in Barbados. By 'accepted' however, I do not necessarily mean that everyone is jumping for joy that Jesus is risen! (even though He IS!) but the point that even non-Christians are eager to wish others a Happy Easter.

(Regarding Easter eggs - I had tried to find some authoritative and official Christian source to explain the origin, and purpose of Easter eggs.. however none I found were up to my standards.

It is my belief however that Easter eggs within Christianity are a symbol of new life. So yes, it's more than just a big lump of Cadbury chocolate!)

Have a blessed Easter.

33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”
36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”
38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew:
      THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Today is Palm Sunday. The day commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem in the days before his Passion, reported by all four Canonical Gospels Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-44, and John 12:12-19.

Last year June, I reported on a commandment listing from the Vatican which highlighted a list of Ten Commandments for drivers. Well, the Vatican is at it again, but not for drivers this time, now it's more focused on sins in the societal context as you can see below.

"VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Thou shall not pollute the Earth. Thou shall beware genetic manipulation. Modern times bring with them modern sins. So the Vatican has told the faithful that they should be aware of "new" sins such as causing environmental blight.

The guidance came at the weekend when Archbishop Gianfranco Girotti, the Vatican's number two man in the sometimes murky area of sins and penance, spoke of modern evils.

Asked what he believed were today's "new sins," he told the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano that the greatest danger zone for the modern soul was the largely uncharted world of bioethics.

"(Within bioethics) there are areas where we absolutely must denounce some violations of the fundamental rights of human nature through experiments and genetic manipulation whose outcome is difficult to predict and control," he said.

The Vatican opposes stem cell research that involves destruction of embryos and has warned against the prospect of human cloning.

Girotti, in an interview headlined "New Forms of Social Sin," also listed "ecological" offences as modern evils.

In recent months, Pope Benedict has made several strong appeals for the protection of the environment, saying issues such as climate change had become gravely important for the entire human race." (Ref)

Some of the other newly purported sins include: polluting the environment, causing social injustice, causing poverty, becoming obscenely wealthy and taking drugs (Ref).

These sins of course are to be added to the old (more personal) list of: lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy and pride.

To be fair.. New times.. new sins..

A few days ago when as I was reflecting about all the varrriiouss things on my mind, out of nowhere, the verse, "cast all your cares upon Him because He cares for you" came to me. Because I was not 100% sure that this was the correct quotation I googled it and eventually, browsed on to look at the verse's overall context.

I hope the verses (below) can impart some of that same enlightenment which I feel, to you, and serve to remind you that He is there waiting for us whatever we may be going through..

The verse..

"Submit to God, Resist the Devil

5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for

      “ God resists the proud,
     But gives grace to the humble.”

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 5:5-11 (NKJV).

(Believe it or not, I only wanted to underline the really KEY parts of the verse.! :$)

Enjoy your week and God bless! :-)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with ALL your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13.

I can add nothing to this scripture to make it more perfect or pertinent. Therefore, I'd just ask you to take a few minutes out of your busy day and meditate on these words and their meaning, their implications for your life.

Have a blessed week!

For this week I'd like you to approach life and all its challenges with the following attitude:

I can't, but GOD can.

Have a great week and tell me how it goes! Also, I'm sorry this post is late - ideally it would have been done on Sunday - but I was a bit busy but I also could not find anything that appealed to me soo much that I could share it with you. Finally, I thank Jamel for bringing this lovely quote to my attention, :-)!

Take care and God bless.

Don't be fooled by "Doubt"! We're under God's promise! :-) Have a great day!

There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods; but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner.

As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it. He was shocked and grieved! In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile; only to see his sister watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing After lunch the next day Grandma said, "Sally, let's wash the dishes" But

Sally said, "Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen." Then she whispered to him, "Remember the duck?" So Johnny did the dishes. Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, "I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper."

Sally just smiled and said, "Well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help" She whispered again, "Remember the duck?" So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help.

After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's; he finally couldn't stand it any longer.

He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."

Thought for the day and every day thereafter?

Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done... and the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, etc.)...whatever it is...You need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing. He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven.

He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you.

The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness; He not only forgives you, but He forgets. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved.

Go ahead and make the difference in someone's life today. Share this with a friend and always remember:
God is at the window!

When Jesus died on the cross; he was thinking of you!

(That was excellent. Thanks J!)

Here's a short history lesson on Ash Wednesday (which is 6 February - today - this year)..

"Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent for Western Christian churches. It's a day of penitence to clean the soul before the Lent fast. .. The service draws on the ancient Biblical traditions of covering one's head with ashes, wearing sackcloth, and fasting. ..

In Ash Wednesday services churchgoers are marked on the forehead with a cross of ashes as a sign of penitence and mortality. .. The minister or priest marks each worshipper on the forehead, and says remember you are dust and unto dust you shall return, or a similar phrase based on God's sentence on Adam in Genesis 3:19." (Ref)

For more info visit here or over there. And, as would be expected, Crosswalk has a nice Lent 101 article for the season.

Many thanks to 'Your Pastoral Coach' for the image used in this post.

There is a reason Jesus said, "Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it" (Mark 10:15). Check the clip below.

A real tear-jerker..  Have a blessed day! (Thanks for the tip M!)

I hope you got the message.. Enjoy your week!! :-)

I think these four lines are quite suitable for all those who need a bit of encouragement and direction right now.

"Unless the LORD builds the house,
They labor in vain who built it,
Unless the LORD guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain." Psalm 127:1.

Have a great day and remember, try not to worry or to get overly anxious about whatever situation you are faced with even as daunting as it may look. Because, "When we trust the power of God, we experience PEACE not panic".!

I received this as part of an email and even though I found it slighly harsh, I think it's definitely worth sharing.

"God whispers in your soul and speaks to your mind. Sometimes when you don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at you.

It's your choice: Listen to the whisper, or wait for the brick."

Enjoy your week!!

Search the Scriptures' precious store-
As a miner digs for ore,
Search, and you will surely find
Treasures to enrich the mind. - Anon

God speaks to us through His Word; take time to listen.

Taken from RBC Ministries 'Our Daily Bread' Dec07-Feb08: Jan 5 2008

Firstly, Happy New Year! I wish you the best for 2008.

To start this year, I would like to share with you a Daily Bread reading taking from RBC Ministries 'Our Daily Bread' Dec07-Feb08: December 31 2007. It reads..

"Which of the following quotes are in the Bible?
1. Cleanliness is next to godliness.
2. God helps those who help themselves.
3. Confession is good for the soul.
4. Man is born to trouble, as the sparks fly upward.
5. Money is the root of all evil.
6. Honesty is the best policy.

Believe it not, only one of those quotes is found in the Bible. The fourth one is from Job 5:7.

George Muller, a pastor and orphanage director in the 1800s, wouldn't have had trouble knowing which of those quotes ere from the Bible. Why? Because he read through it more than 100 times! He said: "I look upon it as a lost when I have not had a good time over the Word of God. . . . I have always made it a rule never to begin work until I have had a good season with God and His Word. The blessing I have received has been wonderful."

We don't need to feel guilty if we don't read the Bible as much as Muller did. But consider with me reading it through at least once this coming year-not so that we can answer some tricky questions about it, but because it was given to us by God and is profitable for our spiritual growth (2 Tim. 3:16-17). - Anne Cetas

Read the Bible to be wise, believe it to be safe, practice it to be holy."

I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Ta!

This is a rather interesting article I found on Christian site Crosswalk.com, especially for guys (note though that it is written by a woman). Gals, you can feel free to refute any of the claims! Check it out: 9 Lies Men Tell Themselves About Women!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

"Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he as no one to help him up.

Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken."

We can go a lot further together than we can go alone... :-)

"But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe."

1 Timothy 4:7

Have a great week!

David Crowder Band - O Praise Him! Such a sweet, and powerful song. I hope you enjoy.

O help us, Lord, to heed Your Word,
Its precepts to obey,
And give us strength to quench the urge
To do things our own way. - Sper

Obedience is faith in action!

Here's a rather thought-provoking article I got in my feeds this morning - Top 10 Qualities to Look For in a Wife. Guys, I definitely suggest you read it, even though... to be honest, some parts sound rather utopian. Gals? Well... take a gander, this may just be the package most guys are looking for in you.

For me, I've already bookmarked it for later (like.. wayyyy later) reference.

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.

INSIGHT

Inherent within the human heart is a longing for peace, love, and joy. Among Christians and non-Christians alike, the desire is the same. Yet peace, love, and joy do not answer just any beck and call. They will come only by certain means; they are fruits on the tree of wisdom. Wisdom will bring length of days (v. 2), peace (v. 2), favor with God and man (v. 4), strength to your bones (v. 8), honor (v. 16), pleasantness (v. 17), paths of peace (v. 17), confidence in life (v. 26), and freedom from the snares of life (v. 26). Foolishness brings harm (v. 29), oppression (v. 31), and shame (v. 35). We all long for the benefits of wisdom. We must remember that she comes with a price: submission to the will of God and the truth of Scripture.

Source: Quiet Walk - August 3, 2007.

"Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully."

1 Peter 5:7

Have a great day!

I haven't put up anything funny in a while, but I think this makes up for it! Check this out!

X

Enjoy!!

Yep! That's right! I couldn't believe the headline myself until I browsed to the article.

"The Vatican on Tuesday issued a "Ten Commandments" for motorists to keep them on the road to salvation, warning drivers against the sins of road rage, abuse of alcohol or even simple rudeness." (Yahoo!)

Some of the commandments are:

• The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm. (#2)
• Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events. (#3)
• Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin. (#5).. [I think.. all males break the first part of this one .. ]

Check the full list here! Enjoy!

I just read a great article on Crosswalk called "The Power of 'Possibility Praying'" and I think it'll be worth the read! Here's a snippet:

"... Jesus responded by saying, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Jesus shifts the responsibility right back to the father, letting him know that he had a part to play in the healing of his son. His part was to believe. What most Christians fail to realize is that there are two sides to the coin of “all things are possible with God” (Matt. 19:26)."

"For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do." Romans 7:15 (NKJV)

"Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer."

1 Timothy 4:1-5

I posted this passage especially because of an article a friend (thanks T!) directed me to in the EASY Magazine of last Sunday's Nation (May 27 pg 8 and 9) newspaper which spoke a bit on marriage. The article was titled, "Does living together [outside of marriage] ever really work?" and to respond, 3 (out of the 7 interviewed) - and notably 3 of the younger ones - made comments like, "I would live with someone, but I would never get married", "I'm not really into marriage. It's not worth it." and "I would not get married. Marriages today do not last very long, so what's the point?"

I think it's pretty sad that this is the view of some when it comes to marriage. Then again, I'm sure many think.."Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?". You know what I mean..  

So.. what do you think? Or is it just me.. :|

What would we expect of someone who feeds only on fast food and unhealthy snacks filled with sugar and fats? A healthy body? Long life? No, we would expect physical health to be largely the product of physical intake. Is it any different in the spirit?

Modern culture is saturated with unhealthy spiritual food—from the lusts of the flesh and the eyes, to the human pride of the self-life, to elaborate and deceptive worldviews and philosophies. Hundreds of television channels, dozens of newspapers and magazines, unlimited cyberspace images, and a number of other media compete for our attention. We let many of them actually win our attention. And much of what we feed on is unhealthy. In our pursuit of wisdom, our minds often hunger for genuine nutrition.

"You are what you eat" applies not only in the physical world, but also in the spiritual. There's no way to take in junk without becoming junky.

God calls us to watch our diets. It pleases Him when we care for His temple, our bodies. But it pleases HIm much more when we care for our minds. Our thought life is where His Spirit most prefers to work, shaping uncluttered hearts and imparting wisdom to uncluttered minds. Even so, we do not make a smooth highway for Him into our souls. Through our entertainment, we let ourselves be bombarded by an incessant PR campaign for the ways of the world. Find a balance. Watch what goes into your mind. Without hindrance, let His thoughts nourish you.

Adapted from The One Year® Walk with God Devotional by Chris Tiegreen, Tyndale House Publishers (2004)

Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He
conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

I feel honoured to serve such a Leader who loves us!

MT 21:9 And the multitudes that went before him, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a place called Success.

Thanks for the mail J!

Check out this site.

Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God
Painful moments, trust God
Every moment, thank God.

Nice way to start off the weekend, don't you think?

Is it possible Jesus faced the same temptations you do?

This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. (Hebrews 4:15-16 NLT)

But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it. (1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT)

We experience temptation every day. Jesus himself was tempted in every way, yet his temptation did not lead to sin. It is not a sin to be tempted, but to prevent temptation from becoming sin, we must use all the resources God gives us to recognize, resist, and flee the situation. Since Jesus knows what it is like to be tempted, we can turn to him in all honesty when we're having a battle with temptation. Have you talked with him lately about potential situations that would be difficult for you?

adapted from TouchPoint Bible with devotional commentary by Ron Beers and Gilbert Beers, Tyndale House Publishers (1996), p 1084

Thanks for the email A. Definitely a good way to start the week!

1...God won't ask what kind of car you drove,
He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.

2...God won't ask the square footage of your house,
He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.

3...God won't ask about the clothes you had in your closet,
He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.

4...God won't ask what your highest salary was,
He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.

5...God won't ask what your job title was
He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of our ability.

6...God won't ask how many friends you had,
He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.

7...God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived,
He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.

8...God won't ask about the color of your skin,
He'll ask about the content of your character.

9...God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation,
He'll lovingly take you into heaven,and not send you to the gates of Hell.

Remember these things.

One of the best Christian sites I've seen online is Crosswalk.com (hence why its included in my Navigation list to the right of the page). Well now, they've updated their site and I must say I like it! It surely is no easy job to fit all that content on one page, and I think they've done a pretty admirable job!

If you've never checked out this site, I definitely recommend it, it has almost everything one can think of (as a Christian site) and even reviews movies, covers various versions of the Bible and *drum roll* .. has a WAP site!

Crosswalk.com people, have a view!

Over the last couple days I've had the opportunity of visiting another Caribbean island, namely Antigua (hence why my MSN nick was <nick>.ag as opposed to .bb) and even though it was a pretty OK trip, I'm glad to be back on "home soil". One thing I must say though, if ever you think that you've never experienced God's beautiful creation in this world, try viewing it from 21,000 ft above sea level! I kid you not!

As I was going up, and the plane was flying through the clouds it felt a bit.. scary at times, I mean these are the clouds I usually look up to!, and 20mins into the flight, I'm looking down at them casting their shadows on the ocean!

Barbados from that far up looks pretty populated in some parts, but in others just puuuree greenery. Sorry I don't have any pics to show but the camera was knackered.

Another interesting thing that hit me up there (or actually when we were descending) was that I was able to pick out a Banks logo on the roof of probably some "bar" located somewhere in Christ Church! Now I wonder... a logo on the roof.. this must be advertising targeted for airline passengers! I can't imagine many people will get to see the roof of that building in normal day-to-day transactions!

Anyway, sometimes seeing the world or.. at least where you live from soooo far up can put a perspective on things. That far up, you get a glimpse of "the bigger picture".. but also you say to yourself.. "Hmm.. if anything happens to this plane... it's curtains for me (especially when the plane shakes at times )".. but two things must come into play then.. 1. Your trust in God that everything will be how it should be, and 2. Your knowledge of being saved and thus, there being no worry about if you will be called home. Yes that's blunt but... that's how it is. Enjoy life people but remember, there is a "bigger picture".

Bless up ppl. :-)

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."

Taken from Jeremiah 29:11-13 (New King James Version).

It's not easy to keep up with the shorthand that accompanies today's fast-paced, youth-oriented electronic communication. In IM-speak (Instant Message talk) or text-message language, "laughing out loud" becomes "lol." "By the way" is "btw" And regrettably, some people use "omg" for "Oh, my God!"

This last phrase seems to be on the lips of many who receive startling news. But as Christians, we need to stop before we utter this or any other phrase that flippantly uses God's name.

In Matthew 6, when Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, the first thing He told them to say was this: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name" (v.9). Clearly, God's name itself is special. It encompasses His nature, His teachings, and His moral authority. To speak the name of God is to call on the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.

In every way possible, we should honor and protect God's holy name, preserving its use for those occasions when we are speaking of Him or addressing Him in faith.

Let's be careful never to turn the hallowed name of our awesome and mighty God into just another flippant phrase on our lips or in a text-message. - Dave Branon

(This was taken from: Our Daily Bread by RBC Ministries.. date: Sunday January 28.)

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it"

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Just a little forward I got a while back, I hope you enjoyed it.

This is the day the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! You do too!

I found this nice thing on Happiness this morning and thought I'd share.

Ten Rules for Happier Living

1. Give something away. 2. Do a kindness. 3. Give thanks always. 4. Work with vim and vigor. 5. Visit the elderly and learn from their experience. 6. Look intently into the face of a baby and marvel. 7. Laugh often - it's life's lubricant. 8. Pray to know God's way. 9. Plan as though you will live forever - you will. 10. Live as though today is your last day on earth.

(By Richard De Haan)

On Christmas Day, I did a Merry Christmas post, wishing all my readers the best for the season. In reply to that post a friend of mine posted the following comment:

"Actally Grandad, Christmas is a pagan holiday... and, Jesus probably hates you for celebrating it." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuS9_Cy9l3A

Well, now I've finally got time to reply to this comment and I decided it was best to put it as a new post as opposed to just adding another comment where people may overlook it.

Now first thing, Christmas is not a pagan holiday, CHRISTmas as I've been trying to highlight is a season in which we (as Christians) celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The confusion here seems to come about in Huey and others because Christmas is celebrated around (or possibly on, depending on which history book you read) the day(s) on which persons celebrated pagan holidays.

Another way people (and Huey) look at it is because Jesus could not have been born in the winter time, thus the entire celebration of Christ's birth is 'wrong'. This first part of this thinking is very very true as Huey shows. HOWEVER, as a Sunday school teacher pointed out to a group of kids lately, if my birthday is on a Tuesday however because of whatever reason, I decide to have a birthday party Saturday, am I not celebrating my birthday on Saturday? IE the day that is NOT my birthday? Come Come people, let's be real and logical.

What I've found based on my research about the date chosen to celebrate Jesus' birth is that "In 350, Pope Julius I declared that Christ’s birth would be celebrated on December 25." [1] [2]. See? So we celebrate it at a different time. Ok? ... Now that that's done. I would like to paste an excerpt from a web site that I stumbled across..

Origin of Christmas - What Really Matters?
The true origin of Christmas is filled with controversy and compromise... Christmas should be nothing more than a simple, yet wonderful reminder of Christ's humble beginning as a human child in this world. His birth merely set the stage for the power, glory, and salvation that would be revealed in His life, death, and resurrection! Whether it's December 25th, sometime in late September, or any other day of the year, we should use each and every opportunity to reflect on Jesus Christ and His message of hope for all of us. [3]

Well I just got back from Midnight Mass and I'd just like to officially say...

MMeeerrrrryyyyyyyyyyyy CCChrrrriissttttmassssssssss to all!

Have a blessed Christmas Season!

9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”^[a] says the Lord. 20 Therefore

   
      “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
      If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
      For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”^[b]

   

 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Ref: Romans 12:9-21 .. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=52&chapter=12&version=50

Monday morning thought...

¹³ Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; ¹⁴ whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. ¹⁵ Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” ¹⁶ But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. (James 4:13-16)

Come with me to a third grade classroom....

There is a nine-year-old kid sitting at his desk and all of a sudden, there is a puddle between his feet and the front of his pants are wet.

He thinks his heart is going to stop because he cannot possibly imagine how this has happened. It's never happened before, and he knows that when the boys find out he will never hear the end of it. When the girls find out, they'll never speak to him again as long as he lives.

The boy believes his heart is going to stop, he puts his head down and prays this prayer, "Dear God, this is an emergency! I need help now! Five minutes from now I'm dead meat."

He looks up from his prayer and here comes the teacher with a look in her eyes that says he has been discovered.

As the teacher is walking toward him, a classmate named Susie is carrying a goldfish bowl that is filled with water. Susie trips in front of the teacher and inexplicably dumps the bowl of water in the boy's lap.

The boy pretends to be angry, but all the while is saying to himself, "Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Lord!"

Now all of a sudden, instead of being the object of ridicule, the boy is the object of sympathy. The teacher rushes him downstairs and gives him gym shorts to put on while his pants dry out.

All the other children are on their hands and knees cleaning up around his desk.

The sympathy is wonderful. But as life would have it, the ridicule that should have been his has been transferred to someone else - Susie. She tries to help, but they tell her to get out. "You've done enough, you klutz!"

Finally, at the end of the day, as they are waiting for the bus, the boy walks over to Susie and whispers, "You did that on purpose, didn't you?" Susie whispers back, "I wet my pants once too."

May God help us see the opportunities that are always around us to do good.

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.

 

Thanks for the forward N.

I had the most shocking email in my inbox late Monday night, can you guess what it was about? I'll give you a clue, it has something to do with the 'Christians ... please, keep your eyes open' post.

Anyway, without wasting any more time, the email I am referring to is an Invite to SmutVibes.com (YES BELIEVE IT) titled "Join me on smutvibes.com". (Sounds familiar? The invite to ChristianVibes was titled "Join me on christianvibes.com".)

Now, if I got that email I assume some of you will get it soon also, just watch out for it and please, if you want to verify that the site is full of lewd stuff, DON'T DO IT AT WORk. I've been hearing some fishy stuff lately and the last time I checked, you get fired for that kinda stuff! (violating Acceptable Use Policy I think it should be.)

PS. Of course I will assume it was pure coincidence that that email was sent to me a couple hours after I wrote the ChristianVibes post.

Firstly, for those of you that don't know, I'm a Christian. Ya sike? Good. Now onto the posT...

Lately, I've received about 4 invites with the subject "Join me on christianvibes.com". These invites have come from persons whom I consider are pretty legit and serious about their faith. So I browsed to the site to see this thing for myself.

When I got there, it honestly looked like a good site, no banners, no ads and it even gives pictures of its members, WITHOUT one logging in or anything. BUT, with pictures and emails and all this other documentation it holds on its members, surely there must be some Privacy Policy link... Hmm.. I don't see one. BUT, probably one can check the About Us link to find out more about this place/site/online community... Hmm.. I don't see one.

Ok Ok, enough with the fluff, now to the meat of this post.

ChristianVibes is one of the online networking sites, belonging to a Jamaican-based company called Vibesnetwork (Ref). This fact in itself is cool, a regional company doing their thing, great! BUT the interesting thing to me comes about when I find out that Vibesnetwork also own another networking site called SmutVibes. Upon browsing to this site (please don't do it at work), you'll see at the bottom some links for porn sites. Yes, that's correct, Porn Sites. Also, if you were to just skim through the slide show they have there on the main site, you'll see some rather, .. "questionable" photos (aka people in the nude - partially or entirely). Remember, I haven't even logged in, this stuff is viewable by the public at large.

Now I ask, Christians, is this cool with you? Are you willing to subscribe with a site that is run by people who support porn etc. etc.? It's surely NOT OK with me. I'll be giving that one a miss.

Also, one may want to research BigChurch.com, another Christian network site, before you take the plunge there as well. ;It has been reported that that's owned by the Friendfinder Network, an organisation which also owns Adult Friendfinder (don't view this site at work). It also has been reported that they own another site called Out Personals (a gay site; don't view this at work either).

Now you see why we as Christians need to keep our eyes open, and do the necessary research instead of just joining anything that crosses our paths. Come on people, we will know them by their fruit, remember?

PS.1. I refused to put a link to SmutVibes or Adult Friendfinder on my site, browse to them yourself if you so desire.

PS.2. If this link is 100% accurate, that is a sad.. story.

PS.3. I'm glad I don't have Google AdSense on here yet, if ever. I can't imagine how much and what type of ads that content above with the word "porn" in it would put on my site. Hmm, to think of it, I guess that's a limiting factor of Adsense, ie you can only put stuff on your site which you want ads relating to. Never thought of that... Interesting. I'm sure GLAD I'm NOT constrained! (I'm not 100% sure that Google AdSense would bring back links on porn based on what I have in my content above, but, I think it would and I'm not up for taking that chance.)

PS.4. I hope I didn't come across too strong and offend you... it was not my intention, I just have very strong views on this topic.