Friends,
Maybe it is because the last pro football game most weeks has been the most exciting that it causes me to comment on it...in this case, the final game of NFL week 16, on a very rare Tuesday evening, no less. Or, maybe it is just because I have a short memory. :-) Yet, the offering between the Vikings and Eagles was interesting for a number of reasons. Minnesota rookie QB, Joe Webb, had a standout performance as he led the Vikings to a 24-14 victory. The irony is that Webb looked like his competition, Michael Vick...and Vick, who made a number of mistakes, played like a rookie. With injured starter, Brett Favre, cheering him on, Webb played like a steely veteran...and may have earned himself a good look for being the starter for the Vikings next year. Yet, how to explain Vick? The Eagles will only go as far as he takes them. When he has played well, they usually win big, but...when he plays poorly, they struggle and lose, which was the case this week. And since sports tends to be the place where I offer unbiased opinions on my blog :-)...I have to say that I am always pleased when the Eagles lose.
The playoff picture solidified quite a bit, with the Eagles, Bears, Falcons and Saints making the show in the NFC, while the Packers can get in if they beat the Bears at Soldier Field...a daunting task. If the Packers lose, the Giants can get in with a win. If both Green Bay and New York lose, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers can sneak in to the playoffs with a win. Meanwhile, the Rams and Seahawks will battle it out on Sunday evening for the sorry NFC West title in Seattle. In the AFC, the Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, Chiefs and Jets are all in. The Colts can get in with a win, but a loss by them and a Jaguars win will put Jacksonville in. So, as it is every year, there are always things to be sorted out in week 17...just another reason to love the NFL. Now, if they can only get that labor agreement hammered out for 2011 and beyond.
Tim Tebow fans can feel good about the Denver rookie QB's performance, as he led the Broncos to a come from behind win over the Houston Texans, 24-23. Speaking of the Texans, they have lost 8 of 9, and one has to wonder if coach Gary Kubiak's coaches seat can get any hotter(?). The Bears outlasted the Jets in a shootout 38-34, in a a game where both QBs, Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez played well. Don't look now, but the Detriot Lions have won three in a row...which is news -- especially since they have won two in a row on the road, a place where the Lions have struggled for over a decade. The Saints kept fighting back from turnovers to take down the Falcons in Atlanta, 17-14. Don't hold your breath, though...these two teams could very well meet again in the playoffs in a few weeks. Finally, the 49ers bailed on the Mike Singletary experience as they fired their head coach after only a couple of seasons. I have always loved Singletary's passion for and commitment to, not only for the game of football, but also for the Lord. Singletary just didn't win enough games, as the Niners are only 5-10 this year, in a season where expectations started out high...a division title was expected. Singletary is a solid guy who will find another job, as a coordinator most likely, but...I just hate it that the 49ers brass believed that they had to make some sort of statement by firing him with one week left in the season. It was not a surprise that Singletary handled his dismissal with grace and class. Way to go, Mike.
Blessings,
Don
P.S. A brief NCAA note...putting the University of Maryland football program on my "serious dislike" list for firing head coach, Ralph Friedgen, after an 8-4 season. Granted, he was 2-10 in 2010, but he has consistently been a winner in the several seasons he has been the head man for the Terrapins. Before Friedgen came on board, the Maryland football team had not had a winning season in many, many years. I am disturbed that more and more football programs are selling out on good coaches who may have winning records, but the allure of more $ with a big name new coach is driving them...'tis the way it is anymore, unfortunately. There will never be another JoePa.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
A True Rescue Operation
Friends,
In the course of this life, we must check our own spiritual pulses to be certain that we are remaining pure in Christ and seek to remain unstained by the world. In 1 John 5:14ff, John wants his readers to understand that God knows about the needs and problems in the daily lives of His children…and that He is concerned. Jesus helped many, many people when He was here on earth…and God still provides help for those who are in need. And He often uses us…you and me…His servants in order to accomplish his purposes. It reminds me of the Casting Crowns song…”If We Are the Body.” We are his arms, His hands, His feet…and we need to continue to provide help if we are able to do so.
This is especially important when our concern is a brother or sister who is spiritually ill. John is not speaking concerning the unintentional or unwitting sins that believers commit on occasion, but he is talking about habitual sins…the practice of sin. Some of the Christians at the time that John is writing are leaving the fellowship. Those who are faithful are not to hate their wayward brothers and sisters, but continue to love them. Hating a brother or sister would be a habitual sin…which would lead to (spiritual) death. This would be to have a heart focused habitually on sin, rather than seeking to be pleasing to the Lord. All of these matters require prayer...and these Christians need to pray for their own hearts as well as others' concerns. Genuine Christians ask that those who have fallen away be restored. If one repents, then this person has been rescued…they are safe. We can thank the Lord for second opportunities!
A Minnesota radio station reported a story about a stolen car in California. Police were staging an intense search for the vehicle and the driver, even to the point of placing announcements on local radio stations to contact the thief. On the front seat of the stolen car sat a box of crackers that, unknown to the thief, were laced with poison. The car owner had intended to use the crackers as rat bait. Now the police and the owner of the VW Bug were more interested in apprehending the thief to save his life rather than to recover the car. So often when we run from God, we feel it is to escape his punishment. But what we are actually doing is eluding his rescue. What a tangled web that we humans can weave for ourselves by being self-willed and not seeking God’s will. It is so easy for us to even appear to be doing God’s will, when in reality, we are really doing our own will in God’s name. This doesn’t work for very long.
God gives His people the power to overcome. This, in and of itself, indicates that we will be tested…the circumstances of life, our own selfishness and sin, and the Lord himself may test us…for our own good, yet not above what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). To the worldly man, the Christian life is unreal, because this person lives according to what he/she feels and not according to God’s will through His Spirit and in His Word. We must not lean on our own strength…it will fail us. We must lean on the Lord for our strength to overcome. John has shared in his letter over and over that we can have real life, but only in Jesus Christ. And we do! We have met the One True God in His Son…and the only reason that we may be able to offer assistance in rescuing others is because we have ourselves have been rescued by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
John concludes his letter with a simple imperative…“don’t give in to idols.” Surrounded by idolatry, early believers were under tremendous pressure to conform. An “idol” is literally “that which is seen.” It is lifeless…a useless substitute for the real thing. What Satan would use to cause early Christians to stumble, He uses today, as well. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” If we safeguard our hearts and minds and dwell on things that encourage our hearts and minds, then we can and will not only overcome, but we will also thrive and grow! We share a lot of spirit in fellowship this time of year, and it is a great blessing. The reason we are able to do so is because God sent His Son into the world with one mission…to rescue us from ourselves…from sin, Satan and destruction. I thank the Lord God that He cared enough to rescue us because He wanted us to be with Him!
Blessings,
Don
In the course of this life, we must check our own spiritual pulses to be certain that we are remaining pure in Christ and seek to remain unstained by the world. In 1 John 5:14ff, John wants his readers to understand that God knows about the needs and problems in the daily lives of His children…and that He is concerned. Jesus helped many, many people when He was here on earth…and God still provides help for those who are in need. And He often uses us…you and me…His servants in order to accomplish his purposes. It reminds me of the Casting Crowns song…”If We Are the Body.” We are his arms, His hands, His feet…and we need to continue to provide help if we are able to do so.
This is especially important when our concern is a brother or sister who is spiritually ill. John is not speaking concerning the unintentional or unwitting sins that believers commit on occasion, but he is talking about habitual sins…the practice of sin. Some of the Christians at the time that John is writing are leaving the fellowship. Those who are faithful are not to hate their wayward brothers and sisters, but continue to love them. Hating a brother or sister would be a habitual sin…which would lead to (spiritual) death. This would be to have a heart focused habitually on sin, rather than seeking to be pleasing to the Lord. All of these matters require prayer...and these Christians need to pray for their own hearts as well as others' concerns. Genuine Christians ask that those who have fallen away be restored. If one repents, then this person has been rescued…they are safe. We can thank the Lord for second opportunities!
A Minnesota radio station reported a story about a stolen car in California. Police were staging an intense search for the vehicle and the driver, even to the point of placing announcements on local radio stations to contact the thief. On the front seat of the stolen car sat a box of crackers that, unknown to the thief, were laced with poison. The car owner had intended to use the crackers as rat bait. Now the police and the owner of the VW Bug were more interested in apprehending the thief to save his life rather than to recover the car. So often when we run from God, we feel it is to escape his punishment. But what we are actually doing is eluding his rescue. What a tangled web that we humans can weave for ourselves by being self-willed and not seeking God’s will. It is so easy for us to even appear to be doing God’s will, when in reality, we are really doing our own will in God’s name. This doesn’t work for very long.
God gives His people the power to overcome. This, in and of itself, indicates that we will be tested…the circumstances of life, our own selfishness and sin, and the Lord himself may test us…for our own good, yet not above what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). To the worldly man, the Christian life is unreal, because this person lives according to what he/she feels and not according to God’s will through His Spirit and in His Word. We must not lean on our own strength…it will fail us. We must lean on the Lord for our strength to overcome. John has shared in his letter over and over that we can have real life, but only in Jesus Christ. And we do! We have met the One True God in His Son…and the only reason that we may be able to offer assistance in rescuing others is because we have ourselves have been rescued by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
John concludes his letter with a simple imperative…“don’t give in to idols.” Surrounded by idolatry, early believers were under tremendous pressure to conform. An “idol” is literally “that which is seen.” It is lifeless…a useless substitute for the real thing. What Satan would use to cause early Christians to stumble, He uses today, as well. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” If we safeguard our hearts and minds and dwell on things that encourage our hearts and minds, then we can and will not only overcome, but we will also thrive and grow! We share a lot of spirit in fellowship this time of year, and it is a great blessing. The reason we are able to do so is because God sent His Son into the world with one mission…to rescue us from ourselves…from sin, Satan and destruction. I thank the Lord God that He cared enough to rescue us because He wanted us to be with Him!
Blessings,
Don
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Special Teams Extraordinaire
Friends,
What a wild and wacky weekend of football was week 15 of the NFL season. What has to be the highlight of the year, so far, was seeing number 63, Dan Connolly, of the Patriots, rumbling 71 yards down the field on a kickoff, carrying the football like a loaf of bread. The Patriots offensive lineman had the experience of a lifetime...and the only thing that would have made it better is if he could have made it the six more yards to end zone. But, I am sure it was highlight reel fodder for some good yuks in the New England locker room following the game. The Patriots play the Bills this week, and Buffalo coach Chan Gailey was asked if he was concerned with Connolly's return skills, concerning which, he responded...with a laugh. Thanks, Dan, for a memorable moment. There were a couple of other significant returns that bear mention. DeSean Jackson of the Eagles concluded a ferocious comeback by the Eagles against the Giants, where they were down by 21 with seven and a half minutes to play. Thanks to some big plays and a successful onside kick, the Eagles came back to tie the game 31-31 with just a couple of minutes to play. Yet, with just 14 seconds left on he clock, Giants punter, Todd Dodge, inexplicably punted to Jackson, and the star wide receiver then wove his magic, scoring on a 65 yard punt return to cap an incredible comeback, 38-31. Finally, special teams guru, Devin Hester, of the Chicago Bears scored on a 64 yard punt return against the Vikings, Monday night, to set an NFL record 14 punt or kickoff returns for a touchdown. What is remarkable is that he has accomplished this in only five years, breaking the mark of 13 that it took former return star, Brian Mitchell, 14 years to set. Kudos to Hester who figures to add many more happy returns during his career...to the end zone, that is.
From the "let me get this straight" category...as mentioned last week, Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has alienated players and fans with his strong arm tactics...most recently, benching highly-paid, (formerly) prized QB, Donovan McNabb, and cutting punter, Hunter Smith, who botched a hold on a missed extra point that cost Washington its game against Tampa Bay last week -- not much grace there. Now, we go from Mr Hyde, to Dr Jekyll...Tom Coughlin, coach of the Giants. You mean that Tom Coughlin, who has a reputation for being tough as nails? Yep...him. His punter, the aformentioned Dodge, who made the ill-fated punt to DeSean Jackson, was the subject to intense criticism following the Giants loss to the Eagles. Yet, unlike his counterpart, Coughlin did not cut the punter, but encouraged and restored him...after blasting him following the game, of course -- but his response was more...grace in action. I have to say, that even a few years ago one would have thought that these actions would be the other way around, but maybe I have read Coach Cough wrong...I have a new found respect for him...too bad I still despise the Giants. ;-)
Once again, there were other happenings in week 15. The Cowboys outlasted a comeback by backup QB, Rex Grossman, and the Redskins and held on to win 33-30. This has to help Jason Garrett's bid to have the "interim" tag removed from him as Cowboys coach. But, remember...we are dealing with the enigmatic, unpredictable Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, so we will see. The Ravens beat the Saints, 30-24, by running, running and running star halfback Ray Rice some more. I don't know that this means anything, though. It seems like most of the good teams this years could split a best of four series of games...if they were to play such a schedule. From the "give credit where credit is due" category, Green Bay backup QB, Matt Flynn, played very well in nearly leading the Packers to an upset of the Patriots, but who still lost, 31-27. The Colts avoided what would have been a stunning playoff elimination by beating AFC South front runner, Jacksonville, 34-24. The Colts who looked all but dead a couple of weeks ago would appear to be back in the drivers seat for the division, as they are now tied with the Jags at 8-6. Tim Tebow made his debut for the Denver Broncos and played very well. The Mile High team really needed to take a look at their prize #1 draft pick from this year, and he didn't disappoint, although the Broncos still lost to the Raiders, 39-23. With Denver in such disarray this year, it will be interesting to see who will hang on as the starting QB for next year...incumbent, Kyle Orton, who has had a very good year, or the highly popular, Tebow. Finally, as mentioned earlier, Devin Hester had a big game for the Chicago Bears, as the Bears dumped the struggling Minnesota Vikings, 40-14. The Vikings were slated to start rookie QB, Joe Webb, for week 15...but at the 11th hour, the old gunslinger, Brett Favre came back from the dead (that is, down and out...literally...with a significant injury) to start the game and give his team a boost. The plan seemed to be working well until early in the second quarter when Favre suffered a concussion, as he was slung to the ground, banging his head on the frozen field. He left the game and did not return. It would appear that Favre may finally be done playing...although, how can anyone really say for certain. He says that this is it...that he is done. Personally, I hate to see Favre leave...he has been the most exciting player of his generation, but even old gunslinger's have to step aside at some point. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas, and we will catch up with you again after the holiday.
Blessings,
Don
What a wild and wacky weekend of football was week 15 of the NFL season. What has to be the highlight of the year, so far, was seeing number 63, Dan Connolly, of the Patriots, rumbling 71 yards down the field on a kickoff, carrying the football like a loaf of bread. The Patriots offensive lineman had the experience of a lifetime...and the only thing that would have made it better is if he could have made it the six more yards to end zone. But, I am sure it was highlight reel fodder for some good yuks in the New England locker room following the game. The Patriots play the Bills this week, and Buffalo coach Chan Gailey was asked if he was concerned with Connolly's return skills, concerning which, he responded...with a laugh. Thanks, Dan, for a memorable moment. There were a couple of other significant returns that bear mention. DeSean Jackson of the Eagles concluded a ferocious comeback by the Eagles against the Giants, where they were down by 21 with seven and a half minutes to play. Thanks to some big plays and a successful onside kick, the Eagles came back to tie the game 31-31 with just a couple of minutes to play. Yet, with just 14 seconds left on he clock, Giants punter, Todd Dodge, inexplicably punted to Jackson, and the star wide receiver then wove his magic, scoring on a 65 yard punt return to cap an incredible comeback, 38-31. Finally, special teams guru, Devin Hester, of the Chicago Bears scored on a 64 yard punt return against the Vikings, Monday night, to set an NFL record 14 punt or kickoff returns for a touchdown. What is remarkable is that he has accomplished this in only five years, breaking the mark of 13 that it took former return star, Brian Mitchell, 14 years to set. Kudos to Hester who figures to add many more happy returns during his career...to the end zone, that is.
From the "let me get this straight" category...as mentioned last week, Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has alienated players and fans with his strong arm tactics...most recently, benching highly-paid, (formerly) prized QB, Donovan McNabb, and cutting punter, Hunter Smith, who botched a hold on a missed extra point that cost Washington its game against Tampa Bay last week -- not much grace there. Now, we go from Mr Hyde, to Dr Jekyll...Tom Coughlin, coach of the Giants. You mean that Tom Coughlin, who has a reputation for being tough as nails? Yep...him. His punter, the aformentioned Dodge, who made the ill-fated punt to DeSean Jackson, was the subject to intense criticism following the Giants loss to the Eagles. Yet, unlike his counterpart, Coughlin did not cut the punter, but encouraged and restored him...after blasting him following the game, of course -- but his response was more...grace in action. I have to say, that even a few years ago one would have thought that these actions would be the other way around, but maybe I have read Coach Cough wrong...I have a new found respect for him...too bad I still despise the Giants. ;-)
Once again, there were other happenings in week 15. The Cowboys outlasted a comeback by backup QB, Rex Grossman, and the Redskins and held on to win 33-30. This has to help Jason Garrett's bid to have the "interim" tag removed from him as Cowboys coach. But, remember...we are dealing with the enigmatic, unpredictable Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, so we will see. The Ravens beat the Saints, 30-24, by running, running and running star halfback Ray Rice some more. I don't know that this means anything, though. It seems like most of the good teams this years could split a best of four series of games...if they were to play such a schedule. From the "give credit where credit is due" category, Green Bay backup QB, Matt Flynn, played very well in nearly leading the Packers to an upset of the Patriots, but who still lost, 31-27. The Colts avoided what would have been a stunning playoff elimination by beating AFC South front runner, Jacksonville, 34-24. The Colts who looked all but dead a couple of weeks ago would appear to be back in the drivers seat for the division, as they are now tied with the Jags at 8-6. Tim Tebow made his debut for the Denver Broncos and played very well. The Mile High team really needed to take a look at their prize #1 draft pick from this year, and he didn't disappoint, although the Broncos still lost to the Raiders, 39-23. With Denver in such disarray this year, it will be interesting to see who will hang on as the starting QB for next year...incumbent, Kyle Orton, who has had a very good year, or the highly popular, Tebow. Finally, as mentioned earlier, Devin Hester had a big game for the Chicago Bears, as the Bears dumped the struggling Minnesota Vikings, 40-14. The Vikings were slated to start rookie QB, Joe Webb, for week 15...but at the 11th hour, the old gunslinger, Brett Favre came back from the dead (that is, down and out...literally...with a significant injury) to start the game and give his team a boost. The plan seemed to be working well until early in the second quarter when Favre suffered a concussion, as he was slung to the ground, banging his head on the frozen field. He left the game and did not return. It would appear that Favre may finally be done playing...although, how can anyone really say for certain. He says that this is it...that he is done. Personally, I hate to see Favre leave...he has been the most exciting player of his generation, but even old gunslinger's have to step aside at some point. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas, and we will catch up with you again after the holiday.
Blessings,
Don
Monday, December 20, 2010
Unique Lunar Eclipse
Friends,
There will be a total lunar eclipse beginning tomorrow morning at approximatley 1:30 AM (EST) and will continue for three and a half hours. The totality of it will be seen for over an hour beginning at approximately 2:45, where the moon, being shaded by the earth from the sun, will turn a coppery red. There will be approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide who will be able to see it. That a lunar eclipse is happening is not really big news, as there have been three in the past ten years. What is unusual is a total eclipse on the Winter Solstice, December 21st. The last time that this took place was the early 1600s, but the next one will occur in the year 2094. What is "nearly" as amazing to me is how on earth the "experts" are actually able to understand all of these calculations. :-) Below is a picture of a lunar eclipse.
Blessings,
Don
There will be a total lunar eclipse beginning tomorrow morning at approximatley 1:30 AM (EST) and will continue for three and a half hours. The totality of it will be seen for over an hour beginning at approximately 2:45, where the moon, being shaded by the earth from the sun, will turn a coppery red. There will be approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide who will be able to see it. That a lunar eclipse is happening is not really big news, as there have been three in the past ten years. What is unusual is a total eclipse on the Winter Solstice, December 21st. The last time that this took place was the early 1600s, but the next one will occur in the year 2094. What is "nearly" as amazing to me is how on earth the "experts" are actually able to understand all of these calculations. :-) Below is a picture of a lunar eclipse.
Blessings,
Don
Friday, December 17, 2010
Signs
Friends,
I saw this and loved it, so now I share it --
Driving down a country road, I came to a very narrow bridge. In front of the bridge, a sign was posted: "YIELD." Seeing no oncoming cars, I continued across the bridge and to my destination. On my way back, I came to the same one-lane bridge, now from the other direction. To my surprise, I saw another YIELD sign posted. Curious, I thought, "I'm sure there was one posted on the other side." When I reached the other side of the bridge I looked back. Sure enough, yield signs had been placed at both ends of the bridge. Drivers from both directions were requested to give right of way. It was a reasonable and gracious way of preventing a head-on collision. When the Bible commands Christians to "be subject to one another" (Ephesians 5:21) it is simply a reasonable and gracious command to let the other have the right of way and avoid interpersonal head-on collisions. Stephen P. Beck.
Blessings,
Don
I saw this and loved it, so now I share it --
Driving down a country road, I came to a very narrow bridge. In front of the bridge, a sign was posted: "YIELD." Seeing no oncoming cars, I continued across the bridge and to my destination. On my way back, I came to the same one-lane bridge, now from the other direction. To my surprise, I saw another YIELD sign posted. Curious, I thought, "I'm sure there was one posted on the other side." When I reached the other side of the bridge I looked back. Sure enough, yield signs had been placed at both ends of the bridge. Drivers from both directions were requested to give right of way. It was a reasonable and gracious way of preventing a head-on collision. When the Bible commands Christians to "be subject to one another" (Ephesians 5:21) it is simply a reasonable and gracious command to let the other have the right of way and avoid interpersonal head-on collisions. Stephen P. Beck.
Blessings,
Don
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
All Good Things
Friends,
One of the most recognizable streaks in sports came to an end Monday night...Brett Favre's amazing 297 consecutive games played streak. Even he marveled that the streak went on this long, during a recent interviewed. Most people compare it to baseball immortal Cal Ripken's streak of 2632 consecutive games played...which is an interesting comparison. I am not certain that they can be compared, but all I know is...I don't know how an NFL starting quarterback can take a beating every week and play every game for 19 years(?). I have always been a fan of Favre, the football player, although his personal agendas and issues in recent years have certainly diminished his legend to a degree. I do believe that when it is all said and done...a quarter of a century down the road...that he will be the most celebrated quarterback in NFL history. I have friends who argue his status as an all-time great, but Favre has to be in the top ten, if not in the top five of all-time greats. He owns just about every major positive statistic for NFL QBs...his being the all-time leader in interceptions, notwithstanding...
The Colts (see last week's message) were able to get back on track against Tennessee 30-28, although it wasn't easy. They are still battling injuries, and a shaky running game, but Peyton Manning did not make any significant mistakes...so that is a good sign. Speaking of Manning, it is remarkable to me that his younger brother, Eli, has throws 19 interceptions this year, and yet the Giants are 9--4. Let's hear it for the defense, eh? Well...Smith, Alex, replaced Smith, Troy at the helm of the 49ers this past Sunday, and you would think it was the second coming of Joe Montana. Smith threw for 255 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. Too bad he was so inconsistent early in the year, as it may be too late to get the 49ers, who are 5-8 to the playoffs. Yet, anything could happen, as the 49ers are only one game out of first in the NFC Weak behind the Seahawks and Rams who are 6-7. The Chargers throttled the Chiefs 31-0, who were without starting QB, Matt Cassel who had an emergency appendectomy. Backup Brodie Croyle is going to have to prep better if they are going to stay ahead of the surging Chargers. Aaron Rodgers went down again with a concussion, and so did the Packers, 7-3, to the Lions. Once again, I am not sure what big bucks the backup QBs are being payed not to do their job when called upon, but...it's not a good thing. It may be a statement concerning just how overall weak the QB position is in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Patriots, Falcons, Saints, Steelers, Ravens, Jaguars and Eagles just keep racking up wins. Right now, it seems like the Patriots are #1...and then all of the rest. But, I am sure that it will get interesting before it is all over...this is one of the reasons why I love the NFL.
Blessings,
Don
One of the most recognizable streaks in sports came to an end Monday night...Brett Favre's amazing 297 consecutive games played streak. Even he marveled that the streak went on this long, during a recent interviewed. Most people compare it to baseball immortal Cal Ripken's streak of 2632 consecutive games played...which is an interesting comparison. I am not certain that they can be compared, but all I know is...I don't know how an NFL starting quarterback can take a beating every week and play every game for 19 years(?). I have always been a fan of Favre, the football player, although his personal agendas and issues in recent years have certainly diminished his legend to a degree. I do believe that when it is all said and done...a quarter of a century down the road...that he will be the most celebrated quarterback in NFL history. I have friends who argue his status as an all-time great, but Favre has to be in the top ten, if not in the top five of all-time greats. He owns just about every major positive statistic for NFL QBs...his being the all-time leader in interceptions, notwithstanding...
The Colts (see last week's message) were able to get back on track against Tennessee 30-28, although it wasn't easy. They are still battling injuries, and a shaky running game, but Peyton Manning did not make any significant mistakes...so that is a good sign. Speaking of Manning, it is remarkable to me that his younger brother, Eli, has throws 19 interceptions this year, and yet the Giants are 9--4. Let's hear it for the defense, eh? Well...Smith, Alex, replaced Smith, Troy at the helm of the 49ers this past Sunday, and you would think it was the second coming of Joe Montana. Smith threw for 255 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. Too bad he was so inconsistent early in the year, as it may be too late to get the 49ers, who are 5-8 to the playoffs. Yet, anything could happen, as the 49ers are only one game out of first in the NFC Weak behind the Seahawks and Rams who are 6-7. The Chargers throttled the Chiefs 31-0, who were without starting QB, Matt Cassel who had an emergency appendectomy. Backup Brodie Croyle is going to have to prep better if they are going to stay ahead of the surging Chargers. Aaron Rodgers went down again with a concussion, and so did the Packers, 7-3, to the Lions. Once again, I am not sure what big bucks the backup QBs are being payed not to do their job when called upon, but...it's not a good thing. It may be a statement concerning just how overall weak the QB position is in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Patriots, Falcons, Saints, Steelers, Ravens, Jaguars and Eagles just keep racking up wins. Right now, it seems like the Patriots are #1...and then all of the rest. But, I am sure that it will get interesting before it is all over...this is one of the reasons why I love the NFL.
Blessings,
Don
Monday, December 13, 2010
A Sure Thing
Friends,
Among the more famous thoughts by Ben Franklin...in 1789, he said, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Now, a wise man like Ben Franklin knew other things were certain, including spiritual matters…but, I believe we can understand what he was saying. Concerning the aforementioned certainties, we can agree with Mr. Franklin…yet, concerning spiritual truths, we should be the first to say, “we know for certain” what it is that lies ahead…what lies beyond death’s gate. The word “know” occurs thirty-nine times in 1 John…eighteen times in chapter 5 alone! There are times when believers question things that God says are certain. I have heard some say, “I do not know if I am going to heaven or not.” John says that if we are seeking God’s will, living the blameless life of a faithful follower of Jesus, then we should indeed “know that we are saved” (v.13). And, this does not mean that we are sinless or perfect…just that we are blameless, forgiven. God says so!
There are some divine certainties about being in Christ that we should not question, but simply trust in the Lord. This requires genuine faith -- "little faith” is going to struggle…"no faith” is going to be condemned…but “growing faith,” although it may be challenged, is going to reap a blessed reward! As we grow in faith, we grow in our ability to overcome the flesh, world through the love of God. It is important to understand that by using the word, “overcome,” that John is not describing some special class of believers. He uses the word as a name for Christians who are genuinely maturing in Christ. Those who truly live by faith in Christ have the victory! The better that we come to know and love Jesus, the easier it becomes to trust Him with our needs and for help, guidance in the battles of life.
Remember, some of the folks that John was writing to were those who were still questioning if Jesus Christ was the One in whom they should be trusting. Some of these people had been exposed to a number of false teachers…certain Gnostics…as we have shared previously, who deny Jesus’ deity. To nail down his argument, John presents, once and for all, some infallible witnesses to deal with the false teachers and those whom they had been influencing. The first witness – the water. Jesus came “by water and blood.” The water refers to His baptism and the Spirit who came upon Him like a dove. “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased” (Matthew 3:17). The second witness – the blood. The Father gave further witness as the time drew near for Jesus to die. Concerning “the Name,” He speaks to Jesus from heaven saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again” (John 12:28b). Jesus would shed His blood on the cross…there would be darkness, earthquake, and tearing of the temple veil. Some false teacher’s said Jesus “received the Christ” at His baptism, and that He would lose it at the cross. Yet, on both occasions, as we have seen, the Father witnesses to the deity of His Son! The third witness – the Spirit. The Holy Spirit was given to bear witness to the Christ at His baptism and at His death (John 15:26, 16:14). The Spirit’s witness is to be trusted, because He is presently working, and is “the Spirit of Truth.” The Spirit witnesses to us (Romans 8:15-16)…and His witness is our inner confidence that we belong to Christ, a confidence that we do not and cannot work for, but one that God gives to us. The Spirit also witnesses to us through the Word of God…as we read God’s Word, He speaks to us and teaches us. In all of these spiritual principles, we can know that we have eternal life, through Jesus Christ who has been witnessed. And, we are the Lord’s witnesses, as well...it is our responsibility to share the message of hope to a lost world!
You hear people say, “I wish I could have faith or have more faith.” Yet…everyone lives by faith! All day long, people live in a trusting relationship with others…this requires faith. We trust the doctor and the pharmacist…we trust the restaurant cook…we trust the person driving on the other side of the highway. If we can so trust men in these ways, how can we not trust God who knows all things and has power over all things? Jesus is God…this has been witnessed, and we can trust this! It is a sure thing. If we can’t trust this principle with our lives, souls, who or what can we trust?
Blessings,
Don
Among the more famous thoughts by Ben Franklin...in 1789, he said, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” Now, a wise man like Ben Franklin knew other things were certain, including spiritual matters…but, I believe we can understand what he was saying. Concerning the aforementioned certainties, we can agree with Mr. Franklin…yet, concerning spiritual truths, we should be the first to say, “we know for certain” what it is that lies ahead…what lies beyond death’s gate. The word “know” occurs thirty-nine times in 1 John…eighteen times in chapter 5 alone! There are times when believers question things that God says are certain. I have heard some say, “I do not know if I am going to heaven or not.” John says that if we are seeking God’s will, living the blameless life of a faithful follower of Jesus, then we should indeed “know that we are saved” (v.13). And, this does not mean that we are sinless or perfect…just that we are blameless, forgiven. God says so!
There are some divine certainties about being in Christ that we should not question, but simply trust in the Lord. This requires genuine faith -- "little faith” is going to struggle…"no faith” is going to be condemned…but “growing faith,” although it may be challenged, is going to reap a blessed reward! As we grow in faith, we grow in our ability to overcome the flesh, world through the love of God. It is important to understand that by using the word, “overcome,” that John is not describing some special class of believers. He uses the word as a name for Christians who are genuinely maturing in Christ. Those who truly live by faith in Christ have the victory! The better that we come to know and love Jesus, the easier it becomes to trust Him with our needs and for help, guidance in the battles of life.
Remember, some of the folks that John was writing to were those who were still questioning if Jesus Christ was the One in whom they should be trusting. Some of these people had been exposed to a number of false teachers…certain Gnostics…as we have shared previously, who deny Jesus’ deity. To nail down his argument, John presents, once and for all, some infallible witnesses to deal with the false teachers and those whom they had been influencing. The first witness – the water. Jesus came “by water and blood.” The water refers to His baptism and the Spirit who came upon Him like a dove. “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased” (Matthew 3:17). The second witness – the blood. The Father gave further witness as the time drew near for Jesus to die. Concerning “the Name,” He speaks to Jesus from heaven saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again” (John 12:28b). Jesus would shed His blood on the cross…there would be darkness, earthquake, and tearing of the temple veil. Some false teacher’s said Jesus “received the Christ” at His baptism, and that He would lose it at the cross. Yet, on both occasions, as we have seen, the Father witnesses to the deity of His Son! The third witness – the Spirit. The Holy Spirit was given to bear witness to the Christ at His baptism and at His death (John 15:26, 16:14). The Spirit’s witness is to be trusted, because He is presently working, and is “the Spirit of Truth.” The Spirit witnesses to us (Romans 8:15-16)…and His witness is our inner confidence that we belong to Christ, a confidence that we do not and cannot work for, but one that God gives to us. The Spirit also witnesses to us through the Word of God…as we read God’s Word, He speaks to us and teaches us. In all of these spiritual principles, we can know that we have eternal life, through Jesus Christ who has been witnessed. And, we are the Lord’s witnesses, as well...it is our responsibility to share the message of hope to a lost world!
You hear people say, “I wish I could have faith or have more faith.” Yet…everyone lives by faith! All day long, people live in a trusting relationship with others…this requires faith. We trust the doctor and the pharmacist…we trust the restaurant cook…we trust the person driving on the other side of the highway. If we can so trust men in these ways, how can we not trust God who knows all things and has power over all things? Jesus is God…this has been witnessed, and we can trust this! It is a sure thing. If we can’t trust this principle with our lives, souls, who or what can we trust?
Blessings,
Don
Friday, December 10, 2010
Air Apparent
Friends,
I saw a gorgeous red sky sunset on the way home from the Metroplex today, and I wish there had been a camera present to get some pictures. Yet, the atmospheric colors reminded me of the picture below, but from a different perspective. Here is a unique sideways shot of the atmosphere...with complementary labels.
Blessings,
Don
I saw a gorgeous red sky sunset on the way home from the Metroplex today, and I wish there had been a camera present to get some pictures. Yet, the atmospheric colors reminded me of the picture below, but from a different perspective. Here is a unique sideways shot of the atmosphere...with complementary labels.
Blessings,
Don
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
6-6 Isn't Going to Cut It, Unless You Are In the NCAA
Friends,
It is amazing to see the Indianapolis Colts struggling this year (6-6) after so many years of winning twelve games or more. Peyton Manning has a very un-Peyton like 11 interceptions in three games. I am not a huge Colts fan, but I still have a hard time seeing the Colts and Manning continuing their current slide....and the Tennessee Titans, who are struggling even worse, may be just what the doctor ordered for them this week. And all of this to say, I can't imagine anyone outside of northern Florida who would have said that the Jaguars would be leading the AFC South at his point of the season...especially with a 7-5 record.
Just when we thought the San Diego Chargers were getting on their typical late season roll, they are upset by the Oakland Raiders. The Kansas City Chiefs beat the lowly Broncos (bummer for Josh McDaniels), so they now have a two game lead in the AFC West with two games left to play. If the Chargers are going to somehow pull a rabbit out of their hat, they have no better opportunity than this Sunday when they face the Chiefs. If they lose, they will likely be out of the race with only three games left after this week. (Special note -- can one really ever count the Chargers out? If we remember right, they Charged from several games behind last season to overtake the Broncos on the last weekend, so...)
The New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons seem to have cemented themselves as the leaders for home field advantage for the playoffs. Of course, it is still awfully early to be making this call, but they have really been playing well of late, and it is going to take a couple of significant losses for each of them to fall from their lofty perches. (Was that just the kiss of death? Probably not. :-) Yet, as a New Orleans Saints fan, I hope that they will exact revenge for an early season defeat to the Falcons that should not have taken place (once again, we remember that kicker, Garrett Hartley, missed a twenty-something yard field goal as time ran out that would have sealed the win for the Saints). I have to say, though, that until someone unseats the defending champs, I am liking their chances, as they are on a winning streak of their own. The team that could and should unseat the Saints? New England just throttled fellow 9-2 team, the New York Jets 45-3...and they might be a good bet. Speculation is fun, but with a quarter of the season to go, many things can still change, so buckle your chin straps and hang on...
Blessings,
Don
It is amazing to see the Indianapolis Colts struggling this year (6-6) after so many years of winning twelve games or more. Peyton Manning has a very un-Peyton like 11 interceptions in three games. I am not a huge Colts fan, but I still have a hard time seeing the Colts and Manning continuing their current slide....and the Tennessee Titans, who are struggling even worse, may be just what the doctor ordered for them this week. And all of this to say, I can't imagine anyone outside of northern Florida who would have said that the Jaguars would be leading the AFC South at his point of the season...especially with a 7-5 record.
Just when we thought the San Diego Chargers were getting on their typical late season roll, they are upset by the Oakland Raiders. The Kansas City Chiefs beat the lowly Broncos (bummer for Josh McDaniels), so they now have a two game lead in the AFC West with two games left to play. If the Chargers are going to somehow pull a rabbit out of their hat, they have no better opportunity than this Sunday when they face the Chiefs. If they lose, they will likely be out of the race with only three games left after this week. (Special note -- can one really ever count the Chargers out? If we remember right, they Charged from several games behind last season to overtake the Broncos on the last weekend, so...)
The New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons seem to have cemented themselves as the leaders for home field advantage for the playoffs. Of course, it is still awfully early to be making this call, but they have really been playing well of late, and it is going to take a couple of significant losses for each of them to fall from their lofty perches. (Was that just the kiss of death? Probably not. :-) Yet, as a New Orleans Saints fan, I hope that they will exact revenge for an early season defeat to the Falcons that should not have taken place (once again, we remember that kicker, Garrett Hartley, missed a twenty-something yard field goal as time ran out that would have sealed the win for the Saints). I have to say, though, that until someone unseats the defending champs, I am liking their chances, as they are on a winning streak of their own. The team that could and should unseat the Saints? New England just throttled fellow 9-2 team, the New York Jets 45-3...and they might be a good bet. Speculation is fun, but with a quarter of the season to go, many things can still change, so buckle your chin straps and hang on...
Blessings,
Don
Monday, December 6, 2010
Vocalizing Joy
Friends,
A consideration for the holiday season and for "the post-season" is to proclaim our joy and thanksgiving. There is tremendous value in the very act of vocalizing our joy. C. S. Lewis once confessed that for many years he was uncomfortable with the Scriptural admonitions to praise God. He once considered it a rather arrogant request. But in his book “Reflections on the Psalms,” he writes: “…The most obvious fact about praise…whether of God or anything…strangely escaped me. I thought of it in terms of compliment, approval, or the giving of honor. I had never noticed that all enjoyment spontaneously overflows into praise....the world rings with praise....I had not noticed that the humblest, and at the same time most balanced and capacious, minds, praised most, while the cranks, misfits and malcontents praised least...praise almost seems to be inner health made audible...”
An intangible relationship exists between the body and the soul. Sometimes the health of the inner soul can bring health to a sick body. And sometimes the body can bring the soul into a state of blissful happiness. The act of rejoicing, praising, or giving thanks with our mouths may serve to express the joy of our hearts but it may also relief the sorrow of a troubled act and replace it with joy. The demonstration of our faith through acts of rejoicing transforms our feelings. In other words, we can, indeed, act our way into a better way of feeling. Richard Foster in “the Celebration of Discipline” echoed this theme when he wrote, "Joy begets joy. Laughter begets laughter. It is one of those things in life that we multiply by giving." The more we rejoice, the more we will want to rejoice.
Blessings,
Don
A consideration for the holiday season and for "the post-season" is to proclaim our joy and thanksgiving. There is tremendous value in the very act of vocalizing our joy. C. S. Lewis once confessed that for many years he was uncomfortable with the Scriptural admonitions to praise God. He once considered it a rather arrogant request. But in his book “Reflections on the Psalms,” he writes: “…The most obvious fact about praise…whether of God or anything…strangely escaped me. I thought of it in terms of compliment, approval, or the giving of honor. I had never noticed that all enjoyment spontaneously overflows into praise....the world rings with praise....I had not noticed that the humblest, and at the same time most balanced and capacious, minds, praised most, while the cranks, misfits and malcontents praised least...praise almost seems to be inner health made audible...”
An intangible relationship exists between the body and the soul. Sometimes the health of the inner soul can bring health to a sick body. And sometimes the body can bring the soul into a state of blissful happiness. The act of rejoicing, praising, or giving thanks with our mouths may serve to express the joy of our hearts but it may also relief the sorrow of a troubled act and replace it with joy. The demonstration of our faith through acts of rejoicing transforms our feelings. In other words, we can, indeed, act our way into a better way of feeling. Richard Foster in “the Celebration of Discipline” echoed this theme when he wrote, "Joy begets joy. Laughter begets laughter. It is one of those things in life that we multiply by giving." The more we rejoice, the more we will want to rejoice.
Blessings,
Don
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Three Players Fined...and Patriots West Looks Fine.
Friends,
It's is just about time for kickoff for week 13 tonight with the Texans and Eagles facing off...and I haven't sorted out week 12 yet -- it's been a bit hectic this week. Week 12 was a pretty boring compared to recent weeks, although one thing remained the same -- Steelers LB, James Harrison, was fined $25,000. I have heard enough of this guy already. He doesn't like being fined for head on helmet hits. The league already has dozens of guys on the IR...and the NFL is trying to slow that number down. Eliminating helmet to helmet hits and head on helmet hits will prolong players' careers. And since the league wants to extend the schedule to 18 games next year, this might just be a good idea. You also probably saw the footage of Texas wide receiver, Andre Johnson, being taunted by Titans defensive back, Cortland Finnegan...and the fight that followed. It was not a pretty sight...but, both players received only fines, but no suspensions, which was surprising. And the good (bad) news is that the Texans and Titans, being division rivals, play each other again later in the season, so there could be even more fireworks.
The Kansas City Chiefs' offense appears to be full stride at this point in the season, as they beat down the Seahawks 42-24. What makes this offense tick? Dwayne Bowe leads the NFL in receiving touchdowns, as he and quarterback, Matt Cassel, have developed quite a chemistry. The dynamic running duo of Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones are the best running back set in the league this year. I guess the Chiefs really are becoming "Patriots West." The Vikings won new coach, Leslie Frazier's, debut as they defeated the Redskins 17-13. The Bills were a dropped pass in the end zone by Steve Johnson from upsetting the Pittsburgh Steelers in OT. Alas, they were not able to pull off their third win in a row. Jay Cutler led the Bears to a win over the favored Eagles and Mike Vick, 31-26. Cutler, who has a history of throwing untimely picks, had four touchdowns and zero interceptions. The surprising Bears are 8-3 and leading the NFC North. Finally, Peyton Manning and the Colts are going to have to get a running game going if they are going to get out of their funk. Manning threw four picks in a blowout loss to the surging San Diego Chargers, 36-14. The Colts have lost three out of four and do not look anything like the team that went to the Super Bowl last year. Somehow, they always seem to get to the playoffs, but their streak of twelve win seasons is likely going to end at 6. Here's to week 12, just in time for week 13... :-)
Blessings,
Don
It's is just about time for kickoff for week 13 tonight with the Texans and Eagles facing off...and I haven't sorted out week 12 yet -- it's been a bit hectic this week. Week 12 was a pretty boring compared to recent weeks, although one thing remained the same -- Steelers LB, James Harrison, was fined $25,000. I have heard enough of this guy already. He doesn't like being fined for head on helmet hits. The league already has dozens of guys on the IR...and the NFL is trying to slow that number down. Eliminating helmet to helmet hits and head on helmet hits will prolong players' careers. And since the league wants to extend the schedule to 18 games next year, this might just be a good idea. You also probably saw the footage of Texas wide receiver, Andre Johnson, being taunted by Titans defensive back, Cortland Finnegan...and the fight that followed. It was not a pretty sight...but, both players received only fines, but no suspensions, which was surprising. And the good (bad) news is that the Texans and Titans, being division rivals, play each other again later in the season, so there could be even more fireworks.
The Kansas City Chiefs' offense appears to be full stride at this point in the season, as they beat down the Seahawks 42-24. What makes this offense tick? Dwayne Bowe leads the NFL in receiving touchdowns, as he and quarterback, Matt Cassel, have developed quite a chemistry. The dynamic running duo of Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones are the best running back set in the league this year. I guess the Chiefs really are becoming "Patriots West." The Vikings won new coach, Leslie Frazier's, debut as they defeated the Redskins 17-13. The Bills were a dropped pass in the end zone by Steve Johnson from upsetting the Pittsburgh Steelers in OT. Alas, they were not able to pull off their third win in a row. Jay Cutler led the Bears to a win over the favored Eagles and Mike Vick, 31-26. Cutler, who has a history of throwing untimely picks, had four touchdowns and zero interceptions. The surprising Bears are 8-3 and leading the NFC North. Finally, Peyton Manning and the Colts are going to have to get a running game going if they are going to get out of their funk. Manning threw four picks in a blowout loss to the surging San Diego Chargers, 36-14. The Colts have lost three out of four and do not look anything like the team that went to the Super Bowl last year. Somehow, they always seem to get to the playoffs, but their streak of twelve win seasons is likely going to end at 6. Here's to week 12, just in time for week 13... :-)
Blessings,
Don
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