Friends,
If we don't read or watch cartoons now and then, we miss out on some importnat levity for life. In a particular Flintstones episode, the Flintstones and Rubbles are dressing up for a masquerade party. Fred, thinking that he will have a superior costume to Barney, shows up in the red outfit with pitchfork and horns. Much to Fred’s dismay, Barney shows up in the same costume, and jokes – “will the real Satan please stand up.” This makes us laugh…and it also helps us to realize that our society, with all of its cartoon and real life illustrations, treats Satan like he is some joker in red underwear. Yet, this is far from the truth. John points out in this section of his first letter, Satan, the world and the flesh are very real enemies that we struggle against on a daily basis to one degree or another. We need to be aware of these enemies and seek to stay away from them….we need to seek to be right with God rather than with the world system.
As we are aware, the “world” as seen in 1 John (2:12ff), is not the “earth,” but the invisible spiritual, system opposed to God and Christ, and which is controlled by Satan. Worldliness is not so much a matter of activity, as of attitude…although the first follows the second. It is possible for a Christian to stay away from questionable entertainments and doubtful places and still love the world system, for worldliness is a matter of the heart. The world not only affects our ability to respond to the love of God, but also to the will of God. It is possible for people’s hearts to become hardened. Our devotions with God, sharing His love, daily spiritual conduct, seeking His will, are all tests for the heart of the Christian.
John points out three devices of the world system which Satan can manipulate in order to trap Christians – the lust of the flesh (immorality), the lust of the eyes (greed), and the boastful pride of life (power). “Flesh” is not the body, but the basic nature of unregenerated man…and his natural desires that, when out of control, can blind him to spiritual truths. “Flesh” is the nature we receive at our physical birth….Spirit is the nature we receive in our second birth, when we come to Christ (John 3:5-6). The old nature and the new nature continually battle for supremacy in our lives. Hunger, thirst, sleep, sex, hearing, sight, ego are not evil in and of themselves, they are neutral…but, when the flesh controls any one of them, it leads to sinful lust, which is from the evil one. Hunger is natural…gluttony is a bad thing; thirst is natural…drunkenness is a sin; sleep is natural…but, laziness is shameful; sexuality is God’s precious gift, but when it is abused, it becomes immorality. Lusts do not come all of the sudden, rather, they creep in (James 1:14-15). If we are not spiritually alert, we can stumble and fall – temptation, enticement, and lust lead to sin.
A great astronomer (not me) once said that a man who carries a sack of corn on the earth could as easily carry six sacks on the moon. But, on a world the size of Jupiter, with its heavy atmosphere, even to pull some keys out of your pocket would be to tug at a weight of five or six lbs. It would, literally, be impossible even to raise your arm…and if you were to lie down, you could never get back up! That would be just a bit distressing. Well, in the spiritual realm, the weight of our burdens is directly proportional to our attraction to the world system…the deeper we are into the world, the heavier our hearts and consciences. If the world is everything to us, then our burdens will crush us. This is precisely why John gives his hearers, including us, these directions. He understood the pull of the world, the flesh and Satan. And it seems that there is more opportunity to than ever in our present world for people to find themselves up to their eyeballs in a world of filth. We cannot be tempted to lay aside our spiritual walk, quench God’s Spirit and dive headlong into sin that will ruin us, spiritually, and ultimately, eternally. Know yourself…know your weaknesses…and do not allow them to be exploited, be it something in any category, whether immorality, greed or power.
Faith and spirituality are really not that complicated. It is just our human nature and sin that complicates our lives and makes us anywhere from uncomfortable to miserable. We must continually seek to be growing spiritually in our relationship with the Lord -- “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8)). We must continually seek God’s strength, the guidance of His Spirit and His Word in order to grow and prosper, spiritually. When we are seekers, our burdens are not heavy, as if we are living on a spiritual Jupiter…they are light, as Jesus says… “My yoke is easy, and burden is light” (Matthew 11:29-30).
Blessings,
Don
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Giant Crater
Friends,
Some might say... "funny, I don't remember a crater that big on the moon?" Such a thought would be correct. The shot below, as taken by the spacecraft Cassini, is actually of a crater on Mimas, one of Saturn's smaller moons. It is one of most significant impact craters in all of solar system. An asteroid impact of much larger size likely would have destroyed the moon completely.
Blessings,
Don
Some might say... "funny, I don't remember a crater that big on the moon?" Such a thought would be correct. The shot below, as taken by the spacecraft Cassini, is actually of a crater on Mimas, one of Saturn's smaller moons. It is one of most significant impact craters in all of solar system. An asteroid impact of much larger size likely would have destroyed the moon completely.
Blessings,
Don
Friday, May 21, 2010
Set Apart
Friends,
It has been awhile since I have read the book of Numbers...and there really is more to it than simply "numbers" -- it really is a fascinating book. In reading about the Nazirite vow (chapter 6) this morning, I came to some realizations. First, the word "Nazirite" comes from the Hebrew word "nazir" which mean "set apart." The Nazirite vow could be for a certain period of time, like seven years...or it could be a lifetime commitment. Israelite leaders, Samson and Samuel, were committed to be Nazirites for life from birth. Individuals who would take such a vow would have to abstain, not only from alcoholic beverages from the grape, but avoid grapes, grape juice and raisins, as well. Such individuals could not come into contact with a dead person, as it would make them ceremonially unclean. Even if a family member or friend were to die, they would not be able to go to a funeral service or in any other way go to show their respects to their loved one. Nazirites also would not cut their hair during the time of the vow or shave their heads (unless they became ceremonially unclean, by coming into contact with a dead body, for example...then they would have to start their vow over again). Both men and women could be Nazirities under the old law...whereas only men could be priests. Both priests and Nazirites were set apart to be holy unto the Lord. In some senses, Nazirites were the monks and nuns of the Old Testament.
In reading the gospels and the Book of Acts, we come to understand that the Nazirite vow maintained its influence on God's people even during the time of Christ. John the Baptist, presumably, was a Nazirite (Luke 1:13-15). Some have surmised that Jesus was also a Nazirite, although there is no genuine proof of this. I think that some have confused this with the fact that Jesus is called "the Nararene," meaning that He was from the city of Nazareth. There are some that have pulled in certain passages in order to make the case that Jesus was a Nazarite, but I am not going to explore this at this time. I am not going to make a commitment to whether He was actually a Nazirite, either way, but I will say that it is interesting to note that He did come into contact with dead individuals. However, He may have viewed this, as He did the Sabbath...that He came to establish a new meaning and strategy, even, in relationship to the ritual. We have no evidence that He ever took strong drink of any sort (as at the Wedding in Cana, John 2). He did set the stage for the Lord's Supper at the Last Supper (Luke 22:20ff), where He, presumably, took the bread and the fruit of the vine. The Apostle Paul took the Nazirite vow, presumably, as seen in Acts (18:18)...and others may have taken the same vow (21:23-34).
So, should we still be keeping such a vow? Most would immediately say -- "no." I am not certain that this would fall into the category of "things passed away." There are some rituals in the New Testament, such as fasting, pouring of oil during prayer, the laying on of hands, the holy kiss, that have either been accepted or dismissed as either universal or cultural depending upon which "Christian group" we are talking about, or even which contemporary Earth culture may be in discussion. It is interesting to consider. I do know of some who have taken vows in order to be monks, but it would seem that in our modern day "monks" shave their heads rather than grow out their hair, so I am not certain that anything can really be discerned from this. I think that I would be in trouble on all three fronts as related to being a Nazirite. In my line of work, it requires that I come into contact with dead individuals, so I would be in violation of such a vow, although I am uncertain if any sacrifice could be made to make myself clean...at least, under a Christian system. Now, under a Jewish/Christian system, perhaps this could be the case, but this will not ever be the case with me, personally. Although, I could avoid alcohol, as I am an abstainer...I would have a very difficult time avoiding grapes, grape juice, and raisins. A big problem would occur with the partaking of our Lord's Supper, as we Christians (as least in our fellowship) partake of the fruit of the vine (grape juice) on a weekly basis...so this would present a problem. As far as cutting my hair...well, if you have seen pictures of me...this would be problematic, as well. I guess I could grow it out in the back and be put on some mullet watch list, but it is probably not going to happen.
I will say that I can...and we all can...keep the original, spiritual intent of the Nazirite vow. We are all to be "set apart" to the Lord. We should consider our lives "as dedicated to the Lord." The original Greek word is hagios, as it is transliterated. It means to be "set apart," "pure," "holy" to the Lord. We need more Christians to be taking this principle seriously in our day and time, as it seems that we "collectively" struggle with "holiness" more so than ever, as the world continues to infringe upon us. But, we can dedicate our lives as "spiritual Nazirites" to the Lord...and be His holy people in this world. This is our calling.
Blessings,
Don
It has been awhile since I have read the book of Numbers...and there really is more to it than simply "numbers" -- it really is a fascinating book. In reading about the Nazirite vow (chapter 6) this morning, I came to some realizations. First, the word "Nazirite" comes from the Hebrew word "nazir" which mean "set apart." The Nazirite vow could be for a certain period of time, like seven years...or it could be a lifetime commitment. Israelite leaders, Samson and Samuel, were committed to be Nazirites for life from birth. Individuals who would take such a vow would have to abstain, not only from alcoholic beverages from the grape, but avoid grapes, grape juice and raisins, as well. Such individuals could not come into contact with a dead person, as it would make them ceremonially unclean. Even if a family member or friend were to die, they would not be able to go to a funeral service or in any other way go to show their respects to their loved one. Nazirites also would not cut their hair during the time of the vow or shave their heads (unless they became ceremonially unclean, by coming into contact with a dead body, for example...then they would have to start their vow over again). Both men and women could be Nazirities under the old law...whereas only men could be priests. Both priests and Nazirites were set apart to be holy unto the Lord. In some senses, Nazirites were the monks and nuns of the Old Testament.
In reading the gospels and the Book of Acts, we come to understand that the Nazirite vow maintained its influence on God's people even during the time of Christ. John the Baptist, presumably, was a Nazirite (Luke 1:13-15). Some have surmised that Jesus was also a Nazirite, although there is no genuine proof of this. I think that some have confused this with the fact that Jesus is called "the Nararene," meaning that He was from the city of Nazareth. There are some that have pulled in certain passages in order to make the case that Jesus was a Nazarite, but I am not going to explore this at this time. I am not going to make a commitment to whether He was actually a Nazirite, either way, but I will say that it is interesting to note that He did come into contact with dead individuals. However, He may have viewed this, as He did the Sabbath...that He came to establish a new meaning and strategy, even, in relationship to the ritual. We have no evidence that He ever took strong drink of any sort (as at the Wedding in Cana, John 2). He did set the stage for the Lord's Supper at the Last Supper (Luke 22:20ff), where He, presumably, took the bread and the fruit of the vine. The Apostle Paul took the Nazirite vow, presumably, as seen in Acts (18:18)...and others may have taken the same vow (21:23-34).
So, should we still be keeping such a vow? Most would immediately say -- "no." I am not certain that this would fall into the category of "things passed away." There are some rituals in the New Testament, such as fasting, pouring of oil during prayer, the laying on of hands, the holy kiss, that have either been accepted or dismissed as either universal or cultural depending upon which "Christian group" we are talking about, or even which contemporary Earth culture may be in discussion. It is interesting to consider. I do know of some who have taken vows in order to be monks, but it would seem that in our modern day "monks" shave their heads rather than grow out their hair, so I am not certain that anything can really be discerned from this. I think that I would be in trouble on all three fronts as related to being a Nazirite. In my line of work, it requires that I come into contact with dead individuals, so I would be in violation of such a vow, although I am uncertain if any sacrifice could be made to make myself clean...at least, under a Christian system. Now, under a Jewish/Christian system, perhaps this could be the case, but this will not ever be the case with me, personally. Although, I could avoid alcohol, as I am an abstainer...I would have a very difficult time avoiding grapes, grape juice, and raisins. A big problem would occur with the partaking of our Lord's Supper, as we Christians (as least in our fellowship) partake of the fruit of the vine (grape juice) on a weekly basis...so this would present a problem. As far as cutting my hair...well, if you have seen pictures of me...this would be problematic, as well. I guess I could grow it out in the back and be put on some mullet watch list, but it is probably not going to happen.
I will say that I can...and we all can...keep the original, spiritual intent of the Nazirite vow. We are all to be "set apart" to the Lord. We should consider our lives "as dedicated to the Lord." The original Greek word is hagios, as it is transliterated. It means to be "set apart," "pure," "holy" to the Lord. We need more Christians to be taking this principle seriously in our day and time, as it seems that we "collectively" struggle with "holiness" more so than ever, as the world continues to infringe upon us. But, we can dedicate our lives as "spiritual Nazirites" to the Lord...and be His holy people in this world. This is our calling.
Blessings,
Don
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
From Soyuz to Shuttle
Friends,
I received an interesting video from a friend...a visual tour of the International Space Station. Enjoy. http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=H8rHarp1GEE
Blessings,
Don
I received an interesting video from a friend...a visual tour of the International Space Station. Enjoy. http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=H8rHarp1GEE
Blessings,
Don
Monday, May 17, 2010
'Tis an Appointment We Will Keep
Friends,
Some people like to make fun of or laugh at things that make them uncomfortable. One of my dear professors and friends in college told a story one time…she was getting prepared to fly from Portland to Tennessee in order to attend this important conference. She had purchased her tickets and made her preparations and then as she was nearing her departure date, she told one of our classes – “he (the instructor) had the audacity to die.” Of course we all laughed at her statement, but as I said, this is what we do. When we get together for a funeral or memorial service, so many times, what is it that takes place? Laughter. We like good memories and good stories by which we can remember our loved ones. In fact, this is an important part of the grieving and healing process. Still, death is a serious matter. We lost a good friend recently and know of others who have lost loved ones. It is a difficult time when someone leaves here and departs for the hereafter. For all of the gruesome and distorted views that this world has regarding death, the Bible truly paints a different picture. For believers, death is not a curse, it is a blessing…as we go from one form of eternal existence to another…from imperfect, incomplete and incomprehensible to perfect, complete and comprehended. For those under the old covenant, this certainly applies as well, as we see as we come back to the story of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 23).
Sarah has been a good wife to Abraham and good mother to Isaac. She has had her faults, as we all do, and yet, God calls her a princess (17:5) and lists her with the heroes and heroines of the faith. Peter (1 Peter 3:1ff) and Paul (Galatians 4:21ff) also name her as a good example for believers. Abraham has loved his wife dearly, and now her death is a painful experience for him. Once again, as is our common human experience, he expresses his love and grief through tears. Sarah feared the Lord her whole life, so Abraham knows that she is in the Lord’s care (Psalms 73:24). Abraham buys the cave of Machpelah from Ephron, the burial place recorded for Sarah (and for him, ultimately, as well). He shows respect for her by giving her a proper burial…a pattern for God’s people throughout the Scriptures. When Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah for a tomb, he makes a statement of faith for all who are there. He does not take Sarah back to their former home in Ur, but buries her in the land God has given him and his descendents.
As we come to the New Testament, the picture becomes clearer for us -- there is a future for the body. Burial bears witness to our faith in the return of Christ and the resurrection of the body. God promises those who are believers a new body…and makes the connection clear in 1 Corinthians 15. We will be raised imperishable with an eternal, spiritual body. Because Jesus victoriously conquered death, we do not need to fear death or the grave. Praise the Lord!
A preacher tells this story -- “I had performed a funeral. The service was over, and three of the deceased man's relatives were standing by the coffin comforting one another when suddenly we heard a strange beeping sound....coming from the coffin. The women stopped talking, and I began to look around when we all realized that the alarm on the watch of the deceased individual was going off! The relatives laughed nervously, and began to discuss what it might mean. One thing it definitely meant is this: the man missed his appointment. When the man set his alarm, I am sure there was no doubt in his mind that he would keep that appointment....but he didn't. The same is true for you and me. For most of us, death will find us with full calendars, busy agendas, and schedules crowded with coming events. But when it's time to go, we will go anyway, jam-packed day-planners not withstanding. Plan your appointments this week with an eye to the one appointment you will definitely keep--an appointment with your maker.”
Let us not be like the man whom Jesus talks about in Luke 12:13ff, who in the midst of meticulous preparation of all of his earthly things, did not take into account the spiritual concerns that he needed to tend to. And so Jesus says – “this night your soul shall be required of you…and now who will own what you have prepared?” We cannot be a people who lay up treasure for ourselves, and not be rich toward God…and yet, this is the way that many people live. I have heard some believers say from time to time…”I’m not sure if I am going to go to heaven” and they tag onto it…”I am not sure if I have done enough.” Well…this is a bit of a complicated statement. For one thing…we are not ever going to do enough or get enough things done in order to warrant going to heaven, because it is not a place that can be obtained or earned. One the other side of the coin, it is our relationship with Jesus, not religion, that is going to make the difference as to whether we see those pearly gates or not. The Word is quite clear that if we are “faithful until death, we will receive a crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Note -- this is for the faith-full…not the faith-sometimes or the faith-less. John tells us that we can and should know that we have eternal life (1 John 5:13)… if we are living for the Lord, blessed assurance should be a living reality not a distinct possibility. What are you doing to prepare your soul for eternity? If you are living a righteous, blameless life, then the answer is yours…and you know it. If not, then some soul-searching is in order. Tomorrow may or may not come…we have no promise of this. We do have the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Blessings,
Don
Some people like to make fun of or laugh at things that make them uncomfortable. One of my dear professors and friends in college told a story one time…she was getting prepared to fly from Portland to Tennessee in order to attend this important conference. She had purchased her tickets and made her preparations and then as she was nearing her departure date, she told one of our classes – “he (the instructor) had the audacity to die.” Of course we all laughed at her statement, but as I said, this is what we do. When we get together for a funeral or memorial service, so many times, what is it that takes place? Laughter. We like good memories and good stories by which we can remember our loved ones. In fact, this is an important part of the grieving and healing process. Still, death is a serious matter. We lost a good friend recently and know of others who have lost loved ones. It is a difficult time when someone leaves here and departs for the hereafter. For all of the gruesome and distorted views that this world has regarding death, the Bible truly paints a different picture. For believers, death is not a curse, it is a blessing…as we go from one form of eternal existence to another…from imperfect, incomplete and incomprehensible to perfect, complete and comprehended. For those under the old covenant, this certainly applies as well, as we see as we come back to the story of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 23).
Sarah has been a good wife to Abraham and good mother to Isaac. She has had her faults, as we all do, and yet, God calls her a princess (17:5) and lists her with the heroes and heroines of the faith. Peter (1 Peter 3:1ff) and Paul (Galatians 4:21ff) also name her as a good example for believers. Abraham has loved his wife dearly, and now her death is a painful experience for him. Once again, as is our common human experience, he expresses his love and grief through tears. Sarah feared the Lord her whole life, so Abraham knows that she is in the Lord’s care (Psalms 73:24). Abraham buys the cave of Machpelah from Ephron, the burial place recorded for Sarah (and for him, ultimately, as well). He shows respect for her by giving her a proper burial…a pattern for God’s people throughout the Scriptures. When Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah for a tomb, he makes a statement of faith for all who are there. He does not take Sarah back to their former home in Ur, but buries her in the land God has given him and his descendents.
As we come to the New Testament, the picture becomes clearer for us -- there is a future for the body. Burial bears witness to our faith in the return of Christ and the resurrection of the body. God promises those who are believers a new body…and makes the connection clear in 1 Corinthians 15. We will be raised imperishable with an eternal, spiritual body. Because Jesus victoriously conquered death, we do not need to fear death or the grave. Praise the Lord!
A preacher tells this story -- “I had performed a funeral. The service was over, and three of the deceased man's relatives were standing by the coffin comforting one another when suddenly we heard a strange beeping sound....coming from the coffin. The women stopped talking, and I began to look around when we all realized that the alarm on the watch of the deceased individual was going off! The relatives laughed nervously, and began to discuss what it might mean. One thing it definitely meant is this: the man missed his appointment. When the man set his alarm, I am sure there was no doubt in his mind that he would keep that appointment....but he didn't. The same is true for you and me. For most of us, death will find us with full calendars, busy agendas, and schedules crowded with coming events. But when it's time to go, we will go anyway, jam-packed day-planners not withstanding. Plan your appointments this week with an eye to the one appointment you will definitely keep--an appointment with your maker.”
Let us not be like the man whom Jesus talks about in Luke 12:13ff, who in the midst of meticulous preparation of all of his earthly things, did not take into account the spiritual concerns that he needed to tend to. And so Jesus says – “this night your soul shall be required of you…and now who will own what you have prepared?” We cannot be a people who lay up treasure for ourselves, and not be rich toward God…and yet, this is the way that many people live. I have heard some believers say from time to time…”I’m not sure if I am going to go to heaven” and they tag onto it…”I am not sure if I have done enough.” Well…this is a bit of a complicated statement. For one thing…we are not ever going to do enough or get enough things done in order to warrant going to heaven, because it is not a place that can be obtained or earned. One the other side of the coin, it is our relationship with Jesus, not religion, that is going to make the difference as to whether we see those pearly gates or not. The Word is quite clear that if we are “faithful until death, we will receive a crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Note -- this is for the faith-full…not the faith-sometimes or the faith-less. John tells us that we can and should know that we have eternal life (1 John 5:13)… if we are living for the Lord, blessed assurance should be a living reality not a distinct possibility. What are you doing to prepare your soul for eternity? If you are living a righteous, blameless life, then the answer is yours…and you know it. If not, then some soul-searching is in order. Tomorrow may or may not come…we have no promise of this. We do have the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Blessings,
Don
Friday, May 14, 2010
Is It Good To Be King?
Friends,
Well, LeBron didn't get it done...and he owes the whole world an apology. At least, that is what you would think given all of the talk by the sports talking-heads and other media. I just don't know how on earth LeBron or anyone could carry an underachieving team with an inferior coach against a veteran team like the Celtics playing like they were all in their prime. It was and is just too much pressure -- an improbable task. He is THE KING, though...he is supposed to carry the Cavaliers, the city of Cleveland, as well as the NBA. On top of this, he is supposed to erase the thoughts of Michael Jordan being the greatest basketball player of all time...all at 25 years of age. A lot of people want him to be the savior of Cleveland sports, but it is time for LeBron to remove the millstone from around his neck and move on -- he needs a fresh start in a different place. Yet, he could very well get a new coach, as someone will have to take the fall for the Cavs failures over the past three seasons...and it will probably be Mike Brown. This might be enough to entice him to stick around, but only if he gets the guy that he wants. Nevertheless, the pressure will be on him no matter where he goes...let's just hope that he is able to make it his servant instead of his master. We'll see what happens with King James and which court he will reign in the coming months...and rest assured, it will continue to be the one lingering sports story that will outgrow whether or not Brett Favre will play another year. :-)
Blessings,
Don
Well, LeBron didn't get it done...and he owes the whole world an apology. At least, that is what you would think given all of the talk by the sports talking-heads and other media. I just don't know how on earth LeBron or anyone could carry an underachieving team with an inferior coach against a veteran team like the Celtics playing like they were all in their prime. It was and is just too much pressure -- an improbable task. He is THE KING, though...he is supposed to carry the Cavaliers, the city of Cleveland, as well as the NBA. On top of this, he is supposed to erase the thoughts of Michael Jordan being the greatest basketball player of all time...all at 25 years of age. A lot of people want him to be the savior of Cleveland sports, but it is time for LeBron to remove the millstone from around his neck and move on -- he needs a fresh start in a different place. Yet, he could very well get a new coach, as someone will have to take the fall for the Cavs failures over the past three seasons...and it will probably be Mike Brown. This might be enough to entice him to stick around, but only if he gets the guy that he wants. Nevertheless, the pressure will be on him no matter where he goes...let's just hope that he is able to make it his servant instead of his master. We'll see what happens with King James and which court he will reign in the coming months...and rest assured, it will continue to be the one lingering sports story that will outgrow whether or not Brett Favre will play another year. :-)
Blessings,
Don
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Pitcher Perfect
Friends,
What a great day for a perfect game...it's Mother's Day and you have been in the news for some less than good reasons. Welcome to Oakland A's pitcher, Dallas Braden's world. Braden did, indeed, pitch only the 19th perfect game in the history of Major League Baseball. A perfect game is when a pitcher gets out all 27 batters he faces without giving up even a walk...if there is a walk, then it is just merely a no-hitter (which is downright impressive in its own right :-). When you consider the countless innings that have been racked up by pitchers for over a hundred years, "19" is some pretty elite company. The funny thing is it is the second perfect game in two years...and a question has to be raised -- what is up with the Tampa Bay Rays? They have been the victims of both perfect games the past two years...the first one being at the hands of Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox on July 23rd last year. The irony is that they have been one of the top three teams in baseball this year. Nonethless, after the final out, the usual pandemonium broke out from the dugout and on the diamond as his teammates mobbed him. It was aspecial moment for Braden and his grandmother who was there to witness the spectacular feat. Braden's mother passed away some years ago, so he was raised by his grandmother who, in a poignant moment, was able to share a big hug with her grandson after the game.
As eluded to earlier, this was not the first time that Dallas Braden has been in the news. He became Sportscenter news a few weeks ago when he erupted because Alex Rodriguez ran across the pitcher's mound on his way from third to first base in a game. Mr. Braden thought it was a breach of baseball etiquette to cross the mound during a game and called him on the table for it. (An observation and a bit of facetiousness is in order -- THE Alex Rodriguez? I can hardly believe that he would be in the center of a controversy ;-). Nonetheless, there were words exchanged and I guess both made their point, but Dallas continue to belabor the incident to the media up until the end of last week. At that point, the event was old news and the talking heads were saying -- it's time to move on. Well, I guess he did! He moved on and moved in to some elite company. Well done, Mr. Braden...it must feel better to be in the news for something much more positive.
Blessings,
Don
What a great day for a perfect game...it's Mother's Day and you have been in the news for some less than good reasons. Welcome to Oakland A's pitcher, Dallas Braden's world. Braden did, indeed, pitch only the 19th perfect game in the history of Major League Baseball. A perfect game is when a pitcher gets out all 27 batters he faces without giving up even a walk...if there is a walk, then it is just merely a no-hitter (which is downright impressive in its own right :-). When you consider the countless innings that have been racked up by pitchers for over a hundred years, "19" is some pretty elite company. The funny thing is it is the second perfect game in two years...and a question has to be raised -- what is up with the Tampa Bay Rays? They have been the victims of both perfect games the past two years...the first one being at the hands of Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox on July 23rd last year. The irony is that they have been one of the top three teams in baseball this year. Nonethless, after the final out, the usual pandemonium broke out from the dugout and on the diamond as his teammates mobbed him. It was aspecial moment for Braden and his grandmother who was there to witness the spectacular feat. Braden's mother passed away some years ago, so he was raised by his grandmother who, in a poignant moment, was able to share a big hug with her grandson after the game.
As eluded to earlier, this was not the first time that Dallas Braden has been in the news. He became Sportscenter news a few weeks ago when he erupted because Alex Rodriguez ran across the pitcher's mound on his way from third to first base in a game. Mr. Braden thought it was a breach of baseball etiquette to cross the mound during a game and called him on the table for it. (An observation and a bit of facetiousness is in order -- THE Alex Rodriguez? I can hardly believe that he would be in the center of a controversy ;-). Nonetheless, there were words exchanged and I guess both made their point, but Dallas continue to belabor the incident to the media up until the end of last week. At that point, the event was old news and the talking heads were saying -- it's time to move on. Well, I guess he did! He moved on and moved in to some elite company. Well done, Mr. Braden...it must feel better to be in the news for something much more positive.
Blessings,
Don
Sunday, May 9, 2010
"Because I Have Asked Him of the Lord"
Friends,
My friend, Silas Shotwell, puts out a monthly ministry newsletter, “The Safety Net,” and in one particular issue, he talked about “happiness." He says that in a class he took called “Positive Psychology,” Professor Tal Ben-Shahar revealed the secret. He argued that true happiness comes from finding a blend of meaning and pleasure in life; he talked about the “ultimate currency” of life, which is not money or fame, but the things that provide genuine significance – relationships. In a similar way, historian, Will Durant searched for happiness in study and learning, but he, as well, discovered that knowledge alone did not bring happiness. He tried travel, but found only weariness…he tried wealth, but found worry and discord…he immersed himself in writing, but found only fatigue. One day, he noticed a woman sitting in a small car, holding a sleeping child in her arms. He watched while a man got off a train, came over and kissed the woman and the baby gently, so as not to waken him. As he saw the family drive away, Durant suddenly realized that what he had just seen was “happiness.” There is nothing much more innocent, beautiful and happy than a mother’s love for her baby…and baby for mom.
As we typically consider Jesus’ miraculous virgin birth at Christmas time…we also see some amazing births in the Old Testament, among them are Abraham and Sarah with the birth of baby Isaac. In 1 Samuel 1:10-20, we see another amazing birth. We may have heard a number of messages about Samuel, perhaps, but probably not too many about his mother. We understand that Hannah is loved by her husband, Elkanah, but…like Sarai…Hannah is barren. When she comes to realize that this is her situation, she weeps bitterly…she is severely distressed. Elkanah could understand her trouble; it is a big deal to be childless. He tries to make it up to her with his loving attention. Hannah’s experience provides some life lessons for all. First, she turns to God for help when she realizes that matters are beyond her control. We all have a tendency to want to take control of our lives…and like Hannah…we need to learn that we really have little control over anything. This is her response when she faces her struggle – faith, seeking the Lord with all her heart …a good message for all of us. She speaks in her heart…and she prays silently. Yet, her prayer is so intense that even though she is silent, her lips are still moving. Eli, the priest, misunderstands, thinking that she may be a bit inebriated, but she was truly, deeply distressed. As Eli comes to understand the situation, he sees Hannah’s heart and asks that the Lord grant her petition to have a son.
Hannah shows what it is to be a person of integrity by keeping her word to the Lord, as she makes a vow that if He would give her a son, she would dedicate his life in service to the Lord. This would mean that she would bare him, raise him until he was 12 (estimated age) and then give him to the house of God for service. This also means that she would only see him once a year after that when they came to Shiloh for the offerings. Could you do this? It would be very difficult...hard to imagine. The Lord recognizes the vow that Hannah makes, and just as He committed to Abraham that he would have the child of Promise, so He also blesses her with a son. Samuel would indeed become a great prophet and leader of God’s people, Israel. Consequently, like his mother, Samuel is also a person who would make a vow to the Lord. As did, Samson, Samuel would become a Nazirite (Nazir – consecrated) to the Lord…he would not shave his head, neither would he drink any alcohol, and he would have to avoid contact with the dead. Hannah charted the path of faithfulness in the Lord for her son, and this is a valuable lesson for any mother. Hannah learns a wonderful faith lesson, as she comes to realize that children truly are a gift from the Lord. It is reflected in the meaning of his name – “because I have asked him of the Lord.” She also sings a song of thanksgiving to the Lord (2:1-5), which is another example of her faithfulness…out of a pensive heart first came the words of a prayer, and now out of her heart comes a song of praise.
Mothers’ Parable
The young mother set her foot on the path of life. “Is the way long?” she asked. The guide said, “Yes, and the way is hard…and you will be old before you reach the end of it. But, the end will be better than the beginning.” The young mother was happy, but she could not believe that anything would be better than these years. So, she played with her children and gathered flowers for them along the way, and bathed them in the clear streams; the sun shone on them and life was good. The young mother cried, “Nothing will ever be lovelier than this.”
Then, the night came…and the storm; the path was dark and the children shook with fear and cold, and the mother drew them close and covered them all with her blanket., and the children said, “Oh mother, we are not afraid…for you are near and no harm can come,” and the mother said, “This is better than the brightness of day, for I have taught my children courage.”
And the morning came, and they all went for a walk. There was a hill ahead, and the children climbed and grew weary…and the mother was weary…but at all times, she said to the children, “A little patience and we will be there.” So, the children climbed, and when they reached the top, they said, “We could not have done it without you, mother.” And the mother when she lay down that night, looked at the stars and said, “This is a better day than yesterday, for my children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday, they learned courage, today they have learned strength.”
On the next day, there came strange clouds that darkened the earth…clouds of war and hate and evil…and the children groped and stumbled and the mother said, “Look up. Lift up your eyes to the Light.” The children looked and saw above the clouds an everlasting glory, and it guided them and brought them beyond the darkness. That night, the mother said, “This is the best day of all, for I have shown my children God!”
As the days, weeks, months and years passed by, the mother grew old, but her children were tall and strong and walked with courage. When the way was hard, they helped their mother…and when the way was rough, they lifted her and carried her. The mother said, “I have reached the end of my journey, and now I know that the end is better than the beginning, for my children are able to walk alone, and their children after them.” And even when the mother has gone on, the children say, “We cannot see her, but she is still with us. A mother like ours is more than a memory, she is a living presence.” From Log of the Good Ship Grace by Temple Bailey
Blessings,
Don
My friend, Silas Shotwell, puts out a monthly ministry newsletter, “The Safety Net,” and in one particular issue, he talked about “happiness." He says that in a class he took called “Positive Psychology,” Professor Tal Ben-Shahar revealed the secret. He argued that true happiness comes from finding a blend of meaning and pleasure in life; he talked about the “ultimate currency” of life, which is not money or fame, but the things that provide genuine significance – relationships. In a similar way, historian, Will Durant searched for happiness in study and learning, but he, as well, discovered that knowledge alone did not bring happiness. He tried travel, but found only weariness…he tried wealth, but found worry and discord…he immersed himself in writing, but found only fatigue. One day, he noticed a woman sitting in a small car, holding a sleeping child in her arms. He watched while a man got off a train, came over and kissed the woman and the baby gently, so as not to waken him. As he saw the family drive away, Durant suddenly realized that what he had just seen was “happiness.” There is nothing much more innocent, beautiful and happy than a mother’s love for her baby…and baby for mom.
As we typically consider Jesus’ miraculous virgin birth at Christmas time…we also see some amazing births in the Old Testament, among them are Abraham and Sarah with the birth of baby Isaac. In 1 Samuel 1:10-20, we see another amazing birth. We may have heard a number of messages about Samuel, perhaps, but probably not too many about his mother. We understand that Hannah is loved by her husband, Elkanah, but…like Sarai…Hannah is barren. When she comes to realize that this is her situation, she weeps bitterly…she is severely distressed. Elkanah could understand her trouble; it is a big deal to be childless. He tries to make it up to her with his loving attention. Hannah’s experience provides some life lessons for all. First, she turns to God for help when she realizes that matters are beyond her control. We all have a tendency to want to take control of our lives…and like Hannah…we need to learn that we really have little control over anything. This is her response when she faces her struggle – faith, seeking the Lord with all her heart …a good message for all of us. She speaks in her heart…and she prays silently. Yet, her prayer is so intense that even though she is silent, her lips are still moving. Eli, the priest, misunderstands, thinking that she may be a bit inebriated, but she was truly, deeply distressed. As Eli comes to understand the situation, he sees Hannah’s heart and asks that the Lord grant her petition to have a son.
Hannah shows what it is to be a person of integrity by keeping her word to the Lord, as she makes a vow that if He would give her a son, she would dedicate his life in service to the Lord. This would mean that she would bare him, raise him until he was 12 (estimated age) and then give him to the house of God for service. This also means that she would only see him once a year after that when they came to Shiloh for the offerings. Could you do this? It would be very difficult...hard to imagine. The Lord recognizes the vow that Hannah makes, and just as He committed to Abraham that he would have the child of Promise, so He also blesses her with a son. Samuel would indeed become a great prophet and leader of God’s people, Israel. Consequently, like his mother, Samuel is also a person who would make a vow to the Lord. As did, Samson, Samuel would become a Nazirite (Nazir – consecrated) to the Lord…he would not shave his head, neither would he drink any alcohol, and he would have to avoid contact with the dead. Hannah charted the path of faithfulness in the Lord for her son, and this is a valuable lesson for any mother. Hannah learns a wonderful faith lesson, as she comes to realize that children truly are a gift from the Lord. It is reflected in the meaning of his name – “because I have asked him of the Lord.” She also sings a song of thanksgiving to the Lord (2:1-5), which is another example of her faithfulness…out of a pensive heart first came the words of a prayer, and now out of her heart comes a song of praise.
Mothers’ Parable
The young mother set her foot on the path of life. “Is the way long?” she asked. The guide said, “Yes, and the way is hard…and you will be old before you reach the end of it. But, the end will be better than the beginning.” The young mother was happy, but she could not believe that anything would be better than these years. So, she played with her children and gathered flowers for them along the way, and bathed them in the clear streams; the sun shone on them and life was good. The young mother cried, “Nothing will ever be lovelier than this.”
Then, the night came…and the storm; the path was dark and the children shook with fear and cold, and the mother drew them close and covered them all with her blanket., and the children said, “Oh mother, we are not afraid…for you are near and no harm can come,” and the mother said, “This is better than the brightness of day, for I have taught my children courage.”
And the morning came, and they all went for a walk. There was a hill ahead, and the children climbed and grew weary…and the mother was weary…but at all times, she said to the children, “A little patience and we will be there.” So, the children climbed, and when they reached the top, they said, “We could not have done it without you, mother.” And the mother when she lay down that night, looked at the stars and said, “This is a better day than yesterday, for my children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday, they learned courage, today they have learned strength.”
On the next day, there came strange clouds that darkened the earth…clouds of war and hate and evil…and the children groped and stumbled and the mother said, “Look up. Lift up your eyes to the Light.” The children looked and saw above the clouds an everlasting glory, and it guided them and brought them beyond the darkness. That night, the mother said, “This is the best day of all, for I have shown my children God!”
As the days, weeks, months and years passed by, the mother grew old, but her children were tall and strong and walked with courage. When the way was hard, they helped their mother…and when the way was rough, they lifted her and carried her. The mother said, “I have reached the end of my journey, and now I know that the end is better than the beginning, for my children are able to walk alone, and their children after them.” And even when the mother has gone on, the children say, “We cannot see her, but she is still with us. A mother like ours is more than a memory, she is a living presence.” From Log of the Good Ship Grace by Temple Bailey
Blessings,
Don
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Hand in Space
Friends,
This is an amazing picture of a pulsar (a highly magnetized neuton star that pulses like a lighthouse beam), which is the white light at the center and its surrounding nebula, as captured by an x-ray observatory...it looks like some sort of celestial hand reaching out for some cranberries -- interesting...
Blessings,
Don
This is an amazing picture of a pulsar (a highly magnetized neuton star that pulses like a lighthouse beam), which is the white light at the center and its surrounding nebula, as captured by an x-ray observatory...it looks like some sort of celestial hand reaching out for some cranberries -- interesting...
Blessings,
Don
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