Since I am the first member of a new political blog, I guess I should at least have one political blog a week. And so, as a conservative, I will lay down what I think about the various political movements.
The names we give the different groups seem quite interesting. On a spectrum of "right to left," the right is that group that is stuck in the past, I guess. The main idea about being at the "starting point" of a time line is that things should stay the same.
What makes the right "right"? I would say that standing on time-honored "absolutes" is the key. Without a basic belief in the unchanging principles that society has been built upon, there is less security for each of us and our nation.
Those of other persuasion continue to call us "right" even while insisting that we are "mistaken," or even "wrong." What do words mean any more?
So, the "Right" is right because they stand on principles laid down in history. When they take stands, though, that have no basis in natural or revealed law, then they are wrong. No matter what "tradition" might say.
Remember the sermon on the mount. Jesus proclaimed "ego de lego" (actually he probably said it in Aramaic, but it sounds good in Greek) -- I, though, say ...
He went against "tradition" because the "conservatives" of his day had forsaken the principles of the Law (10 commandments) for their own "comfortable" traditions. Jesus made them uncomfortable.
And so, the Right was wrong on segregation and the prejudice that created it. They were wrong with slavery, and they were wrong with much of the "manifest destiny" in building a shore to shore nation on this continent. The Right is wrong when it makes wealth a measure of righteousness (that is, making "greed" a virtue). And, in my opinion the Right is wrong when it lets zenophobic nationalism criminalize immigration. The only reason the immigrants are "illegal" is because we, the majority, have declared it so.
I hope that this has not confused anybody out there. I am conservative. I believe that the constitution, as written, should be the guide to how we run this nation. As for the LAWS, they should be based on established laws with their roots in natural and revealed law that have withstood the tests of time.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Insurance vs. medicine
Here in the upstate of South Carolina we have just seen another victory for the insurance industry over the "demogogues" of "big medicine." Yeah, right.
A local news anchor, Pamela Graham, was out on medical leave for a nasty case of whooping cough (adults can get that?) but the insurance company had decided to tell her employer that she was well enough to go back to work. The trouble is, her doctor would not release her just yet.
Well, I guess insuring the voice of a household fixture of over 20 years in the business is an expence WSPA of Spartanburg couldn't pay. They fired the veteran news lady even though she only asked for another month of leave. So much for "tenure."
I have had some experience in the insurance industry, and my wife is a nurse. It seems to me that most insurance is stacked against the consumer. The rates are based on statistical analysis, and it is not comforting to be a statistic. And then, after years of faithfully paying premiums, you need coverage. Fine, you're covered. But then your rates go up! What have you been paying for, anyway? You are betting good money against yourself -- you pay, hoping that you will not have to collect. They collect, betting on your staying healthy until you reach another bracket in which their statistics justify a hike in the premiums.
And so it goes. A vicious circle that devours billions of dollars a year!
A local news anchor, Pamela Graham, was out on medical leave for a nasty case of whooping cough (adults can get that?) but the insurance company had decided to tell her employer that she was well enough to go back to work. The trouble is, her doctor would not release her just yet.
Well, I guess insuring the voice of a household fixture of over 20 years in the business is an expence WSPA of Spartanburg couldn't pay. They fired the veteran news lady even though she only asked for another month of leave. So much for "tenure."
I have had some experience in the insurance industry, and my wife is a nurse. It seems to me that most insurance is stacked against the consumer. The rates are based on statistical analysis, and it is not comforting to be a statistic. And then, after years of faithfully paying premiums, you need coverage. Fine, you're covered. But then your rates go up! What have you been paying for, anyway? You are betting good money against yourself -- you pay, hoping that you will not have to collect. They collect, betting on your staying healthy until you reach another bracket in which their statistics justify a hike in the premiums.
And so it goes. A vicious circle that devours billions of dollars a year!
Welcome, Visitors
I see by my new counter that I have had over ten visitors in the last 24 hours or so. Welcome.
If you could, a short note would be good. My counter (lower right courner) records where visitors are coming from. So far I have Canadian and Indian (the country) as well as three "clusters" from the US. this represents at least 6 wide spread visits. Welcome. Please leave a note so I can know how to improve the site.
If you could, a short note would be good. My counter (lower right courner) records where visitors are coming from. So far I have Canadian and Indian (the country) as well as three "clusters" from the US. this represents at least 6 wide spread visits. Welcome. Please leave a note so I can know how to improve the site.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Ego de lego, part two
Here it is almost midnight and I have just completed my daily devotions. I usually do my translating (actually just word studies in an inter-liniar NT) and devotions in the morning, but I slept late this morning.
And then, after over ten hours of work there was a good deacon's meeting. So, home at 9:30, blogging a little, and back into the word. Jesus has just told his disciples how "NOT" to pray and then gives them this model prayer. Thus the title of this blog -- Part two.
Matthew 6:9-10 gives us the first two thoughts of the prayer.
Jesus has said: Pray this way -- Father of ours, the One in the heavens, let your name be set apart. Let your reign be over us. Let your desire be on the earth as it is in heaven.
True freedom is to be in bondage to the right master. A paradox, but true.
And then, after over ten hours of work there was a good deacon's meeting. So, home at 9:30, blogging a little, and back into the word. Jesus has just told his disciples how "NOT" to pray and then gives them this model prayer. Thus the title of this blog -- Part two.
Matthew 6:9-10 gives us the first two thoughts of the prayer.
- The supremacy of the Name of God, and
- The extent of the reign of God.
Jesus has said: Pray this way -- Father of ours, the One in the heavens, let your name be set apart. Let your reign be over us. Let your desire be on the earth as it is in heaven.
True freedom is to be in bondage to the right master. A paradox, but true.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Kindness - Gal.5:22; Titus 3:3-8
In a sermon serious on the fruit of the Spirit, Associate Pastor Robert Spears covered "kindness" this evening. The word crestotes is translated "gentleness" in the KJV. The idea is a "moral goodness that results in acts of kindness."
Verses about the kindness of God: Psalms 145:9; 31:19; 119:68; Romans 2:4; 11:22; Ephesians 2:4.
Verses about our kindness to Christians: Romans 3:11 ff; Colossians 3:12; Galatians 6:10.
Verses about kindness to the world: Psalms 25:21-22; Matthew 5:43-48.
Application: Our motives to show kindness -
Verses about the kindness of God: Psalms 145:9; 31:19; 119:68; Romans 2:4; 11:22; Ephesians 2:4.
Verses about our kindness to Christians: Romans 3:11 ff; Colossians 3:12; Galatians 6:10.
Verses about kindness to the world: Psalms 25:21-22; Matthew 5:43-48.
Application: Our motives to show kindness -
- We honor Christ
- It shows our new nature
- We have the same God
- We are thankful
- Others are in need
- It is used to draw others to Christ
- We are compelled to act by the Holy Spirit
My first webring invitation!
Well, today Saturday, I got linked up to a real live webring. Thought this is not strictly a political blog, I think I can at least bounce around some useful thoughts to the politicos who might just visit to see what we politically minded folk are thinking.
I claim to be a "typical conservative," but I must admit some "libertarian" leanings. The problem is, I don't think "civil libertarians" are very civil. :-(
And being "fiscally conservative" should not mean that NO government money should be spent on keeping our civilization "civilized," should it?
I spent most of the evening reading and answering some email from a libertarian Christian from the "left coast." We are very close theologically, but politically he is way too much into "conspiracy" theory for my tastes. However, the local "conservative" weekly here in Greenville is carrying much of the same material. So where does that leave me?
And so, I support my friend the conservative politician Bob Inglis (back in Congress after leaving when his "term limits" expired -- he said "never again" to such a silly notion!) though the local libertarians tout out a very low "conservative index" for him. Will I abandon him for his "own good"? I don't think so!
I claim to be a "typical conservative," but I must admit some "libertarian" leanings. The problem is, I don't think "civil libertarians" are very civil. :-(
And being "fiscally conservative" should not mean that NO government money should be spent on keeping our civilization "civilized," should it?
I spent most of the evening reading and answering some email from a libertarian Christian from the "left coast." We are very close theologically, but politically he is way too much into "conspiracy" theory for my tastes. However, the local "conservative" weekly here in Greenville is carrying much of the same material. So where does that leave me?
And so, I support my friend the conservative politician Bob Inglis (back in Congress after leaving when his "term limits" expired -- he said "never again" to such a silly notion!) though the local libertarians tout out a very low "conservative index" for him. Will I abandon him for his "own good"? I don't think so!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
I, though, say unto you ...
I grew up in the turbulous 60's. These were the days in which conservatives were either fighting a war a half a world away, or working to put a man on the surface out of this world. The liberals were protesting the war and voting to fund welfare in a time of prosperity.
And then there were the "Jesus Freaks." These were related to the "peace-nics," but they were religious folks that "took Jesus seriously." The "Jesus movement" really took off in the seventies, though. I actually visited the Christian commune of Koinia (sp?) near Americus, Ga. The sermon on the mount was their blueprint.
As I study through the gospel of Matthew, I am impressed that Jesus DID have much of that sense of community in mind when he preached of the kingdom of heaven to his disciples. Ours is not a political system, but a worldview with its sights set in another kingdom altogether. This kingdom is here today - in a way - with the world-wide dispersion of the church. The most life is "seen" in parts of the world that receive very little secular notice. In these lands where persecution is common the words of Jesus from the mount ring very true!
In Matthew 5:38-47 Jesus presents a worldview that is diametrically opposed to the world's way of thinking. In fact it is almost as foreign to the modern "Western" church as well. He says there is absolutely NO ROOM for retaliation or hate in the mind of His followers. He states emphatically that HE says something that goes much deeper than the religionists of His day.
Ego de lego. That could be the theme of the Master's message to us. Literally, "I, though, say" or as translated in most versions "But, I say." He quotes the Jewish mindset of his day - and ours, I suppose - that we have to do God's work for him. Well, in doing the "work of God" in acts of kindness and humility we show Him to the world. But alas, the world hates Him, so it will hate us. Nevertheless, "Ego de lego" echoes downthrough the millenia. It is not "what would Jesus do?" for He is God. But rather, it is "what has Jesus SAID?"
Let us reread the message from the mountain. What has Jesus said?
I am designing the bracelet! Should it be initials WHJS? Or the transliterated Greek "Ego de lego"? Or maybe even the phrase in Greek letters!
And then there were the "Jesus Freaks." These were related to the "peace-nics," but they were religious folks that "took Jesus seriously." The "Jesus movement" really took off in the seventies, though. I actually visited the Christian commune of Koinia (sp?) near Americus, Ga. The sermon on the mount was their blueprint.
As I study through the gospel of Matthew, I am impressed that Jesus DID have much of that sense of community in mind when he preached of the kingdom of heaven to his disciples. Ours is not a political system, but a worldview with its sights set in another kingdom altogether. This kingdom is here today - in a way - with the world-wide dispersion of the church. The most life is "seen" in parts of the world that receive very little secular notice. In these lands where persecution is common the words of Jesus from the mount ring very true!
In Matthew 5:38-47 Jesus presents a worldview that is diametrically opposed to the world's way of thinking. In fact it is almost as foreign to the modern "Western" church as well. He says there is absolutely NO ROOM for retaliation or hate in the mind of His followers. He states emphatically that HE says something that goes much deeper than the religionists of His day.
Ego de lego. That could be the theme of the Master's message to us. Literally, "I, though, say" or as translated in most versions "But, I say." He quotes the Jewish mindset of his day - and ours, I suppose - that we have to do God's work for him. Well, in doing the "work of God" in acts of kindness and humility we show Him to the world. But alas, the world hates Him, so it will hate us. Nevertheless, "Ego de lego" echoes downthrough the millenia. It is not "what would Jesus do?" for He is God. But rather, it is "what has Jesus SAID?"
Let us reread the message from the mountain. What has Jesus said?
I am designing the bracelet! Should it be initials WHJS? Or the transliterated Greek "Ego de lego"? Or maybe even the phrase in Greek letters!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Networking
A new step into the wired world of computing! I am now successfully networked to my old computer - the 550 Mhz HP laptop. My new laptop does not have a printer port, so I have to turn both computers on to share the printer that is on the desk.
The neat thing, though, is that I can also access anything in the "My Documents" folder on the other computer as well. It doesn't seem to work in reverse, though.
In fact, it appears that my new Windows XP does not have a built in "Microsoft Works" compatible program. The worksheets from the other computer won't work on this new computer, apparently. I will continue to work on that, though. It seems that MS stuff ought to be backwards compatible.
Well, anyway, I have to bring this blog to an end. I will work out the bugs of this networking stuff later.
The neat thing, though, is that I can also access anything in the "My Documents" folder on the other computer as well. It doesn't seem to work in reverse, though.
In fact, it appears that my new Windows XP does not have a built in "Microsoft Works" compatible program. The worksheets from the other computer won't work on this new computer, apparently. I will continue to work on that, though. It seems that MS stuff ought to be backwards compatible.
Well, anyway, I have to bring this blog to an end. I will work out the bugs of this networking stuff later.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Change
Normally, I don't like change. But today, my "life" online changed. For the first time in years I have truly upgraded my computing power. Today my Dell Inspiron B130 arrived.
Like my last full service computer, a 400 Mhz E-machine, this laptop is "free." The last computer was free after rebates with two years of internet service. This time the interest on a credit card is paying for the computer. The amount of money that HAS to remain in the account at the present APR will more than pay for this machine in the required 18 months. I picked up six months off the old deal!
The other change came when my son Sam saw that I was "still using" Microsoft Internet Explorer. He commandeered the computer and in moments I had Foxfire loaded as my default browser. It is similar to Netscape (which I had been using until the last time I restored my interim computer -- my daughter's old laptop, 550 Mhz HP). I can't tell much difference so far, but I have read good things about it. And the best thing is, it's free!
With it's built in wireless connection, I was into high speed (DSL routed) computing all around. This computer is about three times faster, and it is more compatible with some of the more recent drivers. There is very little waiting for downloading now. I am now in Windows XP rather than the archaic ME of the other computer.
When it comes to computing, change is good. Though I will always love DOS.
Like my last full service computer, a 400 Mhz E-machine, this laptop is "free." The last computer was free after rebates with two years of internet service. This time the interest on a credit card is paying for the computer. The amount of money that HAS to remain in the account at the present APR will more than pay for this machine in the required 18 months. I picked up six months off the old deal!
The other change came when my son Sam saw that I was "still using" Microsoft Internet Explorer. He commandeered the computer and in moments I had Foxfire loaded as my default browser. It is similar to Netscape (which I had been using until the last time I restored my interim computer -- my daughter's old laptop, 550 Mhz HP). I can't tell much difference so far, but I have read good things about it. And the best thing is, it's free!
With it's built in wireless connection, I was into high speed (DSL routed) computing all around. This computer is about three times faster, and it is more compatible with some of the more recent drivers. There is very little waiting for downloading now. I am now in Windows XP rather than the archaic ME of the other computer.
When it comes to computing, change is good. Though I will always love DOS.
Monday, July 31, 2006
A Story to tell
I am a writer at heart, as I hope these pages are demonstrating. Several months ago, I emailed an internet aquaintance in California on the idea for a movie on the Nativity. I am sure that The Nativity Story was already well into the works when I wrote that email, but I can't help wondering if I could have written that screenplay. I visualized going on location for research. A dream "working vacation" for any writer -- even in an Israel currently in turmoil not far away from where the action began in Nazareth.
The intrigue of Herod's reign alone makes for an exciting background. Couple that with the mysterious magi from the east, and the politics behind a taxing and census of subjegated peoples, you then have a fascinating stage onto which Joseph and Mary step. I have not seen The Passion, but I am sure I will be seeing this less controversial movie. On the other hand, The Resurrection, coming in the spring, will probably be more of a question of interpretation, at least among some.
There are ways, of course, in which The Nativity Story may be controversial. For instance, if I were writing the story I would work in the time of year (I prefer during the "holiday" season in the fall -- though others prefer the spring). Either way goes against tradition, and would raise a stir among many. And I hope that this version works in the time interval before the magi come to see the "young child" in the "house." I'm betting, though, that it will follow tradition -- even if it leaves out the shepherds (not that it will, the writer mentioned Matthew's account when discussing sources).
The intrigue of Herod's reign alone makes for an exciting background. Couple that with the mysterious magi from the east, and the politics behind a taxing and census of subjegated peoples, you then have a fascinating stage onto which Joseph and Mary step. I have not seen The Passion, but I am sure I will be seeing this less controversial movie. On the other hand, The Resurrection, coming in the spring, will probably be more of a question of interpretation, at least among some.
There are ways, of course, in which The Nativity Story may be controversial. For instance, if I were writing the story I would work in the time of year (I prefer during the "holiday" season in the fall -- though others prefer the spring). Either way goes against tradition, and would raise a stir among many. And I hope that this version works in the time interval before the magi come to see the "young child" in the "house." I'm betting, though, that it will follow tradition -- even if it leaves out the shepherds (not that it will, the writer mentioned Matthew's account when discussing sources).
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Birthdays and Babies
Moments from now (11:27pm) will mark exactly 26 years since Timothy Spicer Martin came into this world on July 30, 1980. I had been graduated from BJU only a few weeks. Actually, I think I had some summer classes to pick up even then.
Tonight I had hoped to put up some new pictures of HIS son, my grandson, Jett James Martin. Jett is now 3½ months old, over 24 inches long and getting bigger every day! My how they grow up!
Alas, hardware incompatibility and website inconsistencies (at myspace.com!) have prevented the pictures from being available. However, we were able to spend a couple of hours with Jett this evening while Tim and Meredith ate out. We had dessert about an hour ago (10:30 pm)!
How did my son get so old? :-)
Happy Birthday, Tim!
Tonight I had hoped to put up some new pictures of HIS son, my grandson, Jett James Martin. Jett is now 3½ months old, over 24 inches long and getting bigger every day! My how they grow up!
Alas, hardware incompatibility and website inconsistencies (at myspace.com!) have prevented the pictures from being available. However, we were able to spend a couple of hours with Jett this evening while Tim and Meredith ate out. We had dessert about an hour ago (10:30 pm)!
How did my son get so old? :-)
Happy Birthday, Tim!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
The problem of the preachy prayer
Dateline: Georgetown, Del.
Mrs. Mona Dobrich and others are suing the Indian River district school board because a local minister dared to pray an evangelistic prayer.
Quotes from the New York Times article:
The Jewish mother:
"It was as if no matter how much hard work, no matter how good a person you are, the only way you’ll ever be anything is through Jesus Christ," Mrs. Dobrich said. "He said those words, and I saw Sam’s head snap and her start looking around, like, ‘Where’s my mom? Where’s my mom?’ And all I wanted to do was run up and take her in my arms."
The local minister:
"Because Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior, I will speak out for him," said the Rev. Jerry Fike of Mount Olivet Brethren Church, who gave the prayer at Samantha’s graduation. "The Bible encourages that." Mr. Fike continued: "Ultimately, he is the one I have to please. If doing that places me at odds with the law of the land, I still have to follow him."
Did the minister go "over the line" preaching in his prayer? And should a Jew feel "threatened" by such a message? It is the exclusiveness of our faith in Christ as the only way that is the point of contention between Evangelical Christianity and the multi-culturalism that is in our nation today.
It is not enough for us to allow other belief systems along side our own. We must deny our own belief system in "tolerance" of those we feel are false and/or incomplete. Judaism, with which we share common standards of behavior, is actually more "anti-christian" than any other religion. That system, in its present form, is defined by its exclusion of Jesus as the Messiah their own Scriptures predicted. Now one cannot be a "Jew" and at the same time confess Jesus as Messiah.
How can we not "insult" them when we proclaim the truth that by its nature declares their "faith" as a lie? If they accept the New Testament as historical at all they have to admit that the Pharisees did the "right thing" when they silenced the heretic who claimed he was the Messiah. For if Jesus is truthfully portrayed in the gospels, and later preached by a "Hebrew of the Hebrews" as being the very one they had been looking for, then of course Christianity (the "Nazarenes" in modern Hebrew) cannot be allowed to continue preaching what Judaism considers a lie, can it?
And so, we are met with a dilemma. How do we "speak the truth in love"? Do we bring it up in a prayer? Or do we speak openly about Jesus as Lord, and live accordingly. We are told to "evangelize" (proclaim the good message) to the world. But we are also told that we cannot make anyone believe it. But then, logically SAYING a thing does not make it so either. So, if it is not perceived on some level as possibly being the truth it should not offend anyone. If an Orhodox Jew really believes she can be "good enough" to earn God's favor, then a Christian's prayer, or even sermon, should not cause distress.
But then, when the Jewish mother complained about the preachy prayer, some in the audience intimidated her. And then, reportably, she received "threatening" phone calls. Neither activity was called for on the part of Christians. Our faith is not threatened by our inability to proclaim it to others in an orderly manner. When in public prayer, we should pray manner-of-factly to our Sovereign Lord. We don't have to sermonize, but rather just TALK to GOD. And when we close the prayer, we should feel free to pray "in Jesus' name" invoking Him as our authority in approaching the throne of God in the first place.
If we simply pray truthfully, from the heart, then we will not be threatening anyone. When we preach to the unconverted, let us just tell them who Jesus is, and what he has done. Let us let the Holy Spirit change hearts and minds, for we cannot. If anyone feels threatened with the truth, then perhaps it is because they doubt their own "truth." Or maybe they feel our "truth" is actually a "lie."
Unless, of course, they are relativistic post-modernists. Then both truth and "non-truth" are on equal footing. Neither can be "trusted."
Which brings me to my original thought - before the news item grabbed my attention. I am adding a new entry to my profile. Tonight I finished reading the first volume (of five) of "The Complete Works of Francis Schaffer." This volume's theme is "A Chritian Worldview." I would not have finished reading it - a task I began untold months ago - if I had gone to a movie tonight. But my wife was not up for a two hour trip out of the house across town to a crowded theater. And so, to avoid vegging out on the TV or the internet, I read.
Maybe I will get a movie review in NEXT week.
Mrs. Mona Dobrich and others are suing the Indian River district school board because a local minister dared to pray an evangelistic prayer.
Quotes from the New York Times article:
The Jewish mother:
"It was as if no matter how much hard work, no matter how good a person you are, the only way you’ll ever be anything is through Jesus Christ," Mrs. Dobrich said. "He said those words, and I saw Sam’s head snap and her start looking around, like, ‘Where’s my mom? Where’s my mom?’ And all I wanted to do was run up and take her in my arms."
The local minister:
"Because Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior, I will speak out for him," said the Rev. Jerry Fike of Mount Olivet Brethren Church, who gave the prayer at Samantha’s graduation. "The Bible encourages that." Mr. Fike continued: "Ultimately, he is the one I have to please. If doing that places me at odds with the law of the land, I still have to follow him."
Did the minister go "over the line" preaching in his prayer? And should a Jew feel "threatened" by such a message? It is the exclusiveness of our faith in Christ as the only way that is the point of contention between Evangelical Christianity and the multi-culturalism that is in our nation today.
It is not enough for us to allow other belief systems along side our own. We must deny our own belief system in "tolerance" of those we feel are false and/or incomplete. Judaism, with which we share common standards of behavior, is actually more "anti-christian" than any other religion. That system, in its present form, is defined by its exclusion of Jesus as the Messiah their own Scriptures predicted. Now one cannot be a "Jew" and at the same time confess Jesus as Messiah.
How can we not "insult" them when we proclaim the truth that by its nature declares their "faith" as a lie? If they accept the New Testament as historical at all they have to admit that the Pharisees did the "right thing" when they silenced the heretic who claimed he was the Messiah. For if Jesus is truthfully portrayed in the gospels, and later preached by a "Hebrew of the Hebrews" as being the very one they had been looking for, then of course Christianity (the "Nazarenes" in modern Hebrew) cannot be allowed to continue preaching what Judaism considers a lie, can it?
And so, we are met with a dilemma. How do we "speak the truth in love"? Do we bring it up in a prayer? Or do we speak openly about Jesus as Lord, and live accordingly. We are told to "evangelize" (proclaim the good message) to the world. But we are also told that we cannot make anyone believe it. But then, logically SAYING a thing does not make it so either. So, if it is not perceived on some level as possibly being the truth it should not offend anyone. If an Orhodox Jew really believes she can be "good enough" to earn God's favor, then a Christian's prayer, or even sermon, should not cause distress.
But then, when the Jewish mother complained about the preachy prayer, some in the audience intimidated her. And then, reportably, she received "threatening" phone calls. Neither activity was called for on the part of Christians. Our faith is not threatened by our inability to proclaim it to others in an orderly manner. When in public prayer, we should pray manner-of-factly to our Sovereign Lord. We don't have to sermonize, but rather just TALK to GOD. And when we close the prayer, we should feel free to pray "in Jesus' name" invoking Him as our authority in approaching the throne of God in the first place.
If we simply pray truthfully, from the heart, then we will not be threatening anyone. When we preach to the unconverted, let us just tell them who Jesus is, and what he has done. Let us let the Holy Spirit change hearts and minds, for we cannot. If anyone feels threatened with the truth, then perhaps it is because they doubt their own "truth." Or maybe they feel our "truth" is actually a "lie."
Unless, of course, they are relativistic post-modernists. Then both truth and "non-truth" are on equal footing. Neither can be "trusted."
Which brings me to my original thought - before the news item grabbed my attention. I am adding a new entry to my profile. Tonight I finished reading the first volume (of five) of "The Complete Works of Francis Schaffer." This volume's theme is "A Chritian Worldview." I would not have finished reading it - a task I began untold months ago - if I had gone to a movie tonight. But my wife was not up for a two hour trip out of the house across town to a crowded theater. And so, to avoid vegging out on the TV or the internet, I read.
Maybe I will get a movie review in NEXT week.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Bending light
Back in the early twentieth century scientists were seeking a chance to view a solar eclipse to "prove" Albert Einstein's theory of relativity. Specifically, the theory that gravity bends light. The experiment entailed picking a star that would be hidden by the sun during an eclipse and seeking to "see" that star as the result of its light being bent by the sun's massive gravity.
My son Samuel, studying physics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, is not particularly a fan of Einstein's theory. He made the observation that HEAT bends light, as anybody can tell on a scorching hot day in the south. He contends that the light frome the star was actually refracted by the sun's extremely hot ATMOSPHERE.
He agrees with me that the speed of light is affected by numerous things, the most obviously being media through which it travels. We agree that there is nothing to prove that outside of the presence of the galaxie's gravity and magnetism, the light of far away galaxies might very well be free of the restraints we put on the "speed of light." We certainly can't disprove this theory, for we have not "observed" the conditions in intergalactic space. This is his favorite answer to the apparent age of the universe due to distances. His theory holds that God created everything "in place" and then allowed it to begin to spread out.
I prefer to accept most of Einstein's theory, and have a lot of respect for Russell Humphrey's "White Hole" cosmology. A good overview of this view can be found at fellow blogspot blogger Scott Nelson. That being said, it is undeniable that heat and an atmosphere could very well account for the apparent gravitational effect on the light from a faraway star.
The point being, I guess, is that sometimes the simplest observations could also be the simplist answers.
My son Samuel, studying physics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, is not particularly a fan of Einstein's theory. He made the observation that HEAT bends light, as anybody can tell on a scorching hot day in the south. He contends that the light frome the star was actually refracted by the sun's extremely hot ATMOSPHERE.
He agrees with me that the speed of light is affected by numerous things, the most obviously being media through which it travels. We agree that there is nothing to prove that outside of the presence of the galaxie's gravity and magnetism, the light of far away galaxies might very well be free of the restraints we put on the "speed of light." We certainly can't disprove this theory, for we have not "observed" the conditions in intergalactic space. This is his favorite answer to the apparent age of the universe due to distances. His theory holds that God created everything "in place" and then allowed it to begin to spread out.
I prefer to accept most of Einstein's theory, and have a lot of respect for Russell Humphrey's "White Hole" cosmology. A good overview of this view can be found at fellow blogspot blogger Scott Nelson. That being said, it is undeniable that heat and an atmosphere could very well account for the apparent gravitational effect on the light from a faraway star.
The point being, I guess, is that sometimes the simplest observations could also be the simplist answers.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
The potential of the tithe
In last Sunday's bulletin I read statistics from Barna that claimed that the most generous gruop of church members are the poorest: 8% of those making under $30,000 or so. It never gets better, though those making over $100,000 improve to 5%. This got me to thinking. Uh, oh, here I go again!
According to Barna, 47% of adults go to church on any given week. If this figure is right, then "church goers" would provide a giving base of perhaps about 45 million "families." Given the median income of $45,000 per annum, we come up with a potential tithe of 202.5 Billion dollars a year! That could provide a living wage ($30,000/yr @ 15$/hr) for 6.75 Million families. Of course, the $4,500 is about four times the average amount given to church. This 202.5 billion would not go to poverty relief alone, of course. I suppose at least half of it would go to the regular running of the churches (though we seem to be doing well enough with what amounts to about 5% of the potential now).
Let's figure then, that 180 billion would go to things OTHER THAN church staff and plant facilities, etc. That would leave 6 million families raised out of poverty. Well, let's budget some of that money to foreign missions (though that is usually above the tithe), and offer "only" 5 million families the dignity of a standard of living unheard of in much of the world.
Or perhaps, we could fund health care for ANY who need it. And education. Especially for believers, anyway. Hey, maybe we could do a better job at it than the government (read: "beast system"?). Some day it may come to a choice - dependence on God (through HIS tithe) or on Government (through taxes). Where will we stand in that day?
According to Barna, 47% of adults go to church on any given week. If this figure is right, then "church goers" would provide a giving base of perhaps about 45 million "families." Given the median income of $45,000 per annum, we come up with a potential tithe of 202.5 Billion dollars a year! That could provide a living wage ($30,000/yr @ 15$/hr) for 6.75 Million families. Of course, the $4,500 is about four times the average amount given to church. This 202.5 billion would not go to poverty relief alone, of course. I suppose at least half of it would go to the regular running of the churches (though we seem to be doing well enough with what amounts to about 5% of the potential now).
Let's figure then, that 180 billion would go to things OTHER THAN church staff and plant facilities, etc. That would leave 6 million families raised out of poverty. Well, let's budget some of that money to foreign missions (though that is usually above the tithe), and offer "only" 5 million families the dignity of a standard of living unheard of in much of the world.
Or perhaps, we could fund health care for ANY who need it. And education. Especially for believers, anyway. Hey, maybe we could do a better job at it than the government (read: "beast system"?). Some day it may come to a choice - dependence on God (through HIS tithe) or on Government (through taxes). Where will we stand in that day?
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Long live the penny
Once again there is talk of eliminating the penny - the one cent piece. I don't think it will ever happen although presently it takes more than one cent each to make them (or so I've heard). That cost of the penny probably includes handling - part of my job. Also included is packaging and storage!
However, the cent is our unit coin. Everything can be measured in cents, though the cent mark is not even on the keyboard anymore! In case you were wondering the ¢ is alt+0162. I think the solution to our penny problem is to reformulate the cent. We need to make it lighter. And perhaps even thinner and of different metals.
Meanwhile, we could do away with the unpopular "nickel" - the five-cent piece. Perhaps we could move toward a smaller penny and a large "dime" - the ten-cent piece. And though it is popular, the "quarter" should be phased out in favor of a revamped half dollar (which practically no one uses these days!) , followed by the dollar coin. Perhaps we could even go to ten and twenty dollar pieces and do away with paper currency altogether! Anything needing "large bills" could be on debit and/or "smart" cards anyway. My reasoning in chosing these denominations has to do with the "simple math" involved with tens and twos. Almost everyone can divide and multiply by two, and the moving of the decimal point is child's play!
Paper currency is one of the most "diabolical" schemes ever devised! Nothing more than promisory notes, paper "money" has very little value of its own. A personal check serves the same purpose and the funds are actually "available" unless the check itself is bad (human error or fraud). Coinage used to represent real value (based on the weight of the coin and the value of the metals used). Now, however, so much money is spent on controlling the flow of the money that value-added "taxes" would quickly devalue the money anyway.
For instance, if we made a dollar coin with a dollar's worth of gold in it, we would already be working at a loss. The cost of production must be considered, and then other costs related to getting it into circulation would further devalue the coin. However, the coin will last for generations, while bills have a much shorter lifespan with additional costs incurred when they are finally destroyed.
Paper currency is a whole lot easier to counterfeit that coinage -- especially the bigger bills. If larger denominations were not even legal tender, then counterfeiters would be rare. Coin is harder to hide, and heavier to transport. It is hard to imagine the present drug trade operating with dollar coins instead of 100-dollar bills!
And so, long live the penny. And let's say good bye to "funny money" with all its expensive technology that is still being thrawthed by counterfeiters. If we must have "money," then let it be the following coins: zinc cent, nickel ten-cent, copper half-dollar, bronze dollar, silver ten-dollar, and gold twenty-dollar.
However, the cent is our unit coin. Everything can be measured in cents, though the cent mark is not even on the keyboard anymore! In case you were wondering the ¢ is alt+0162. I think the solution to our penny problem is to reformulate the cent. We need to make it lighter. And perhaps even thinner and of different metals.
Meanwhile, we could do away with the unpopular "nickel" - the five-cent piece. Perhaps we could move toward a smaller penny and a large "dime" - the ten-cent piece. And though it is popular, the "quarter" should be phased out in favor of a revamped half dollar (which practically no one uses these days!) , followed by the dollar coin. Perhaps we could even go to ten and twenty dollar pieces and do away with paper currency altogether! Anything needing "large bills" could be on debit and/or "smart" cards anyway. My reasoning in chosing these denominations has to do with the "simple math" involved with tens and twos. Almost everyone can divide and multiply by two, and the moving of the decimal point is child's play!
Paper currency is one of the most "diabolical" schemes ever devised! Nothing more than promisory notes, paper "money" has very little value of its own. A personal check serves the same purpose and the funds are actually "available" unless the check itself is bad (human error or fraud). Coinage used to represent real value (based on the weight of the coin and the value of the metals used). Now, however, so much money is spent on controlling the flow of the money that value-added "taxes" would quickly devalue the money anyway.
For instance, if we made a dollar coin with a dollar's worth of gold in it, we would already be working at a loss. The cost of production must be considered, and then other costs related to getting it into circulation would further devalue the coin. However, the coin will last for generations, while bills have a much shorter lifespan with additional costs incurred when they are finally destroyed.
Paper currency is a whole lot easier to counterfeit that coinage -- especially the bigger bills. If larger denominations were not even legal tender, then counterfeiters would be rare. Coin is harder to hide, and heavier to transport. It is hard to imagine the present drug trade operating with dollar coins instead of 100-dollar bills!
And so, long live the penny. And let's say good bye to "funny money" with all its expensive technology that is still being thrawthed by counterfeiters. If we must have "money," then let it be the following coins: zinc cent, nickel ten-cent, copper half-dollar, bronze dollar, silver ten-dollar, and gold twenty-dollar.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
A problem with "gender"
I am a conservative. I state that in my byline, and it can be discerned from my profile. However, that does not explain why the following statement bothers me so much:
"The theory of evolution says nothing about the existence or nonexistence of God. People might argue about what sort of supreme being would work her will through such a seemingly haphazard arrangement, but that is not the same as denying that she exists in the first place."
That is from an article at the New York Times about several books concerning the debate concerning the theory of evolution. How is it that this science writer can get away with speaking of God as "her" and "she"? I came across that the other night at a blog as well. How is it that secularists so easily refer to the god they don't even know as "she." Perhaps in is among "talking points" among liberals to lampoon God by using the feminine pronoun?
Since God is not a man (except in the person of Jesus), we can not logically insist that the masculine pronoun be used. However, in His role as Father and Husband (OT), it is logical to assign the pronoun "He" to God even if there were never any personal pronoun used in referring to Him. Jesus settled this when He instructed his disciples to pray "Out Father, who is in heaven." The blogger and the writer have succombed to the temptation to be "politically correct" thinking. Let the record speak for itself. YHWH just IS.
It is hard to imagine speaking of God as anything BUT "he." Especially if you believe in Him. That leads me to believe that some writers have little understanding of Who God is or what he has done.
"The theory of evolution says nothing about the existence or nonexistence of God. People might argue about what sort of supreme being would work her will through such a seemingly haphazard arrangement, but that is not the same as denying that she exists in the first place."
That is from an article at the New York Times about several books concerning the debate concerning the theory of evolution. How is it that this science writer can get away with speaking of God as "her" and "she"? I came across that the other night at a blog as well. How is it that secularists so easily refer to the god they don't even know as "she." Perhaps in is among "talking points" among liberals to lampoon God by using the feminine pronoun?
Since God is not a man (except in the person of Jesus), we can not logically insist that the masculine pronoun be used. However, in His role as Father and Husband (OT), it is logical to assign the pronoun "He" to God even if there were never any personal pronoun used in referring to Him. Jesus settled this when He instructed his disciples to pray "Out Father, who is in heaven." The blogger and the writer have succombed to the temptation to be "politically correct" thinking. Let the record speak for itself. YHWH just IS.
It is hard to imagine speaking of God as anything BUT "he." Especially if you believe in Him. That leads me to believe that some writers have little understanding of Who God is or what he has done.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Salt of the earth
OK, I'm a little lazy tonight. I focused on one verse this morning, Matthew 5:13. "You are the salt of the earth ..." And I had not many thoughts of any significance beyond that. However, I did a last minute google search on the phrase and come upon the following thoughts from Vance Havner (1901-1986):
(1). Salt of the Earth
"Ye are the salt of the earth" (Matt.5:13)
It might have seemed ridiculous to a casual bystander for Jesus to say to a handful of ordinary men, "You are the salt of the earth and I am sending you out to permeate and infiltrate and season the whole world." Yet that little band, that pinch or salt, started something that has survived the centuries and changed the history of mankind.
Our Lord used the simplest figures of speech. Nothing is plainer, more universal and old-fashioned than salt. It is such a common commodity that we take it for granted, but if suddenly no salt could be had, what a difference that would make! What would life be without salt! A little boy said, "Salt is what tastes bad when you don't have it." Christians are the salt of the earth and we ought to make a difference.
1. Salt has a seasoning influence.
There ought to be a flavor, a tang, a relish, and a zest about us Christians. Someone has said that our main trouble today is not that our doctrine is false, but that our experience is flat.
2. Salt preserves.
Civilization has been saved from destruction by the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit in Christians. Salt prevents decay and restrains corruption. One godly person in a group will restrain evil conversation.
3. Salt purifies and cleanses.
The best gargle for a sore throat is pain salt water. The church of Jesus Christ has had a purifying influence wherever it has gone. You may think that your community is in a bad state, but take out the church and you would not want to live there.
4. Salt heals.
Lives are changed, souls saved, homes rescued from disaster, broken hearts mended, sorrows eased, burdens lifted, sick bodies and minds made well because of the antiseptic and therapeutic power of the Holy Spirit working through God's people, the salt of the earth.
5. Salt creates thirst.
God's people should develop on the hearts of men a desire to know God. We ought so to live that others would want the peace and joy they see in us. Does anybody want to be a Christian like you? The best argument for Christianity is a Christian.
6. Salt irritates.
When the salt of God's truth is rubbed into this diseased old world, sick souls may smart. When the light is turned on, some will wince. The devil hates the Gospel and fights back… We are not the sugar of the earth - but we are salt and we will not be welcomed by a generation full of wounds, bruises and putrefying sores.
We need to get into the salt business and we must start with a few. this is God's program today. It sounds old-fashion, but salt is old-fashioned, sin is old-fashioned and so is the Gospel. We have been tickling palates with fancy flavors, spicy relishes, and spicy recipes borrowed from the world. Too many pulpit gourmets and theological epicures with menus from Hollywood are trying to please the jaded appetites of a fed up humanity. We need old-fashioned salt, and if we do not start producing more of it in our churches, we shall be good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.
(Used by permission from The Vance Havner Notebook, p.79-80)
There are few individuals that "salt of the earth" can describe without qualifications. We are all in danger of "losing our flavor" due to the impurities that are mixed with our salt. It seems, though, that some seem "saltier" than others. I remember a quiet young physician that was once a member of our church. We were Bible study friends with him and his wife. Dr. Paul Cone lost his wife Karen several years back to complications from Lupus. He coped as only a Christian can. I've seen that coping in the passing of two friends lately, in fact, and I can only hope that I can cope as well if my wife passes away before I do.
Paul Cone was diagnosed last year with leukemia. Tonight he passed away. He leaves his second wife and two daughters. He served his God and his community as a family practicitioner. He was true salt in a world in need of healing.
(1). Salt of the Earth
"Ye are the salt of the earth" (Matt.5:13)
It might have seemed ridiculous to a casual bystander for Jesus to say to a handful of ordinary men, "You are the salt of the earth and I am sending you out to permeate and infiltrate and season the whole world." Yet that little band, that pinch or salt, started something that has survived the centuries and changed the history of mankind.
Our Lord used the simplest figures of speech. Nothing is plainer, more universal and old-fashioned than salt. It is such a common commodity that we take it for granted, but if suddenly no salt could be had, what a difference that would make! What would life be without salt! A little boy said, "Salt is what tastes bad when you don't have it." Christians are the salt of the earth and we ought to make a difference.
1. Salt has a seasoning influence.
There ought to be a flavor, a tang, a relish, and a zest about us Christians. Someone has said that our main trouble today is not that our doctrine is false, but that our experience is flat.
2. Salt preserves.
Civilization has been saved from destruction by the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit in Christians. Salt prevents decay and restrains corruption. One godly person in a group will restrain evil conversation.
3. Salt purifies and cleanses.
The best gargle for a sore throat is pain salt water. The church of Jesus Christ has had a purifying influence wherever it has gone. You may think that your community is in a bad state, but take out the church and you would not want to live there.
4. Salt heals.
Lives are changed, souls saved, homes rescued from disaster, broken hearts mended, sorrows eased, burdens lifted, sick bodies and minds made well because of the antiseptic and therapeutic power of the Holy Spirit working through God's people, the salt of the earth.
5. Salt creates thirst.
God's people should develop on the hearts of men a desire to know God. We ought so to live that others would want the peace and joy they see in us. Does anybody want to be a Christian like you? The best argument for Christianity is a Christian.
6. Salt irritates.
When the salt of God's truth is rubbed into this diseased old world, sick souls may smart. When the light is turned on, some will wince. The devil hates the Gospel and fights back… We are not the sugar of the earth - but we are salt and we will not be welcomed by a generation full of wounds, bruises and putrefying sores.
We need to get into the salt business and we must start with a few. this is God's program today. It sounds old-fashion, but salt is old-fashioned, sin is old-fashioned and so is the Gospel. We have been tickling palates with fancy flavors, spicy relishes, and spicy recipes borrowed from the world. Too many pulpit gourmets and theological epicures with menus from Hollywood are trying to please the jaded appetites of a fed up humanity. We need old-fashioned salt, and if we do not start producing more of it in our churches, we shall be good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.
(Used by permission from The Vance Havner Notebook, p.79-80)
There are few individuals that "salt of the earth" can describe without qualifications. We are all in danger of "losing our flavor" due to the impurities that are mixed with our salt. It seems, though, that some seem "saltier" than others. I remember a quiet young physician that was once a member of our church. We were Bible study friends with him and his wife. Dr. Paul Cone lost his wife Karen several years back to complications from Lupus. He coped as only a Christian can. I've seen that coping in the passing of two friends lately, in fact, and I can only hope that I can cope as well if my wife passes away before I do.
Paul Cone was diagnosed last year with leukemia. Tonight he passed away. He leaves his second wife and two daughters. He served his God and his community as a family practicitioner. He was true salt in a world in need of healing.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
The will of God
Recent events have shown me that "discerning the will of God" is a difficult thing.
Of course, it is not hard to figure out the "revealed will of God." That is to say, His written Word is clear as to what is right and wrong. Well, mostly clear, or there would not be interpretations as to when "laws" are effective or even necessary. But I digress.
When we think of obeying God, the first thing that comes to mind is the Ten Commandments. In a later post I may speak to the "decalogue." Now, though, let's consider these basic commandments as a given base. We KNOW that stealing, killing, and dishonesty are wrong. And so are disloyalty to God and family. These are givens. The laws of our land are based on these.
As a Christian, the will of God for my behavior is perhaps best seen in the sermon on the mount, which I am studying right now. And then, there is one particular congregation that the apostle Paul told DIRECTLY "this is the will of God":
1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
One is behavior: stay sexually pure. The other is attitude: be thankful.
More basically, Paul describes discerning the will of God as a frame of mind:
Romans 12:
1 ¶ I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
And so, in order to KNOW the will of God, you have to sacrifice your OWN WILL! In the course of life circumstances determine much of the direction our lives might go. When we see things going in a way we would rather they not, we must sacrifice what we want as we:
Of course, it is not hard to figure out the "revealed will of God." That is to say, His written Word is clear as to what is right and wrong. Well, mostly clear, or there would not be interpretations as to when "laws" are effective or even necessary. But I digress.
When we think of obeying God, the first thing that comes to mind is the Ten Commandments. In a later post I may speak to the "decalogue." Now, though, let's consider these basic commandments as a given base. We KNOW that stealing, killing, and dishonesty are wrong. And so are disloyalty to God and family. These are givens. The laws of our land are based on these.
As a Christian, the will of God for my behavior is perhaps best seen in the sermon on the mount, which I am studying right now. And then, there is one particular congregation that the apostle Paul told DIRECTLY "this is the will of God":
1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
One is behavior: stay sexually pure. The other is attitude: be thankful.
More basically, Paul describes discerning the will of God as a frame of mind:
Romans 12:
1 ¶ I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
And so, in order to KNOW the will of God, you have to sacrifice your OWN WILL! In the course of life circumstances determine much of the direction our lives might go. When we see things going in a way we would rather they not, we must sacrifice what we want as we:
- Pray to God.
- Seek Godly counsel.
- Discern the "times."
Often, these opportunities do not come in this order, but this is the order of the importance of our choices in determining the will of God outside of the Written Word.
Today, some among our local assembly of believers "disagreed" with the discerned will of God. At least one person saying the one involved in the discerning "must have misunderstood" God's leading! The discussion took longer than some expected, but we had to follow "the Presbyterian way." The matter had to be confirmed by a vote.
When the congregational vote came, though, I took the easy way out. I chose not to vote.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Sons of God
In my devotions in the morning I am going through the New Testament chronologically. After James and Galations, the gospel of Matthew was written to the same audience: the young, mainly Jewish, church. I am presently reading in the fifth chapter:
1 ¶ And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
3 ¶ Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Today I read and dwelt on verses 6-7. These tell us of the character of a "kingdom citizen." Verses 3-6 laid down the requirement to be prepared to meet God: poor, mournful, and meek. The verses following verse 9 deal with the consequences of following Christ, but I will get to that tomorrow (possibly posting my thoughts on that as well). Anyway, the following poem (done in my favorite style - haiku) speaks to this passage:
Seeking righteousness,
Finding righteousness,
1 ¶ And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
3 ¶ Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Today I read and dwelt on verses 6-7. These tell us of the character of a "kingdom citizen." Verses 3-6 laid down the requirement to be prepared to meet God: poor, mournful, and meek. The verses following verse 9 deal with the consequences of following Christ, but I will get to that tomorrow (possibly posting my thoughts on that as well). Anyway, the following poem (done in my favorite style - haiku) speaks to this passage:
Sons of God
Poor, mourning, and meek,
Poor, mourning, and meek,
It is righteousness we seek.
We receive mercy.
Seeking righteousness,
full of mercy, pure of heart,
we are peace-makers.
Finding righteousness,
In His mercy, we see God.
We are sons of God!
My prayer is that someone will stumble across this site and be blessed as sons of Gods. "Sons" includes all "children," used in context as a generic term (uios is better here than paidion, for instance).
Friday, July 21, 2006
It's just not right
Providencially, I was exposed to a toy today that just didn't seem right. The toy itself has been around awhile - I had one once when I was younger (already an adult, but a mere "kid at heart"). The toy is a "virtual pet" - an electronic game teaching responsibility to kids before entrusting them to the real thing. Mine was a bird, and I lost it -- so it died of neglect. :-(
Anyway, this version is from Kids Only, Inc. The thing that bothered me was what I found on the back of the package. Listed among the virtual pets were a "boy" and a "girl"! I don't know about you, but to me that's just not right! What foods would the game include to feed the virtual child? And would they play games of skill, or just do "tricks" like the other animals? And, honestly, a "kept" child is NOT the message I want to give to MY grandson.
Anyway, this version is from Kids Only, Inc. The thing that bothered me was what I found on the back of the package. Listed among the virtual pets were a "boy" and a "girl"! I don't know about you, but to me that's just not right! What foods would the game include to feed the virtual child? And would they play games of skill, or just do "tricks" like the other animals? And, honestly, a "kept" child is NOT the message I want to give to MY grandson.
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