- Blue Like Jazz - Donald Miller
- Marriable - Hayley and Michael DiMarco
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader - C. S. Lewis
- The Art of Connecting - O. S. Hawkins
- The DaVinci Code - Dan Brown
- The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger
- The Screwtape Letters - C. S. Lewis
- Saint Francis of Assisi - G. K. Chesterton
- The Praise of Folly - Desiderius Erasmus
- The Words - Jean-Paul Sartre
Friday, December 22, 2006
Top Ten Recommended Reading
Of the 34+ books that I have read this year, I wanted to provide a list of the top ten that I recommend to others. The decisions were not easy, but here are the ten I chose.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Eating The Word, Throwing Up Wisdom
Psalm 37:30-31 says, “The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.” Here is the problem: my mouth often opens to speak words that are either spoken too soon or too sharp. Oftentimes I speak out of folly and not wisdom. I do a lot of complaining. My steps often slip in my speech life. For example, this summer I judged a person too quickly and spoke bad things about him. However, after getting to know him better, I now feel bad for the things I said. I wish I could take them back, but I can't.
Here is the solution to my problem: I must always be in God’s word. I must eat it as I eat food. Three times a day I will read from a passage of Scripture. My plan is to read the Old Testament in the morning with breakfast, a chapter of Proverbs with lunch, and the New Testament with supper. I have to replace all those negative words with positive words from God Almighty. My desire is to reach the point when people automatically come to me for wisdom and not simply joining me in complaining.
In addition to that, I make it my aim to memorize a verse of Scripture each day. Pretty soon I will have hidden a good bit of God’s Word in my heart. I pray that the Holy Spirit will cause me to remember the Scriptures that I have remembered in the exact moment that I need them.
Here is the solution to my problem: I must always be in God’s word. I must eat it as I eat food. Three times a day I will read from a passage of Scripture. My plan is to read the Old Testament in the morning with breakfast, a chapter of Proverbs with lunch, and the New Testament with supper. I have to replace all those negative words with positive words from God Almighty. My desire is to reach the point when people automatically come to me for wisdom and not simply joining me in complaining.
In addition to that, I make it my aim to memorize a verse of Scripture each day. Pretty soon I will have hidden a good bit of God’s Word in my heart. I pray that the Holy Spirit will cause me to remember the Scriptures that I have remembered in the exact moment that I need them.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Praise Him
As I read Psalm 145, certain verses seemed to leap off the page and stirred my mind. Verse two says, “Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever.” God has blessed me with so many gifts and things I do not deserve that my only response to Him is praise. However, I must confess that I do not praise Him enough. I mean really praising the Lord of all creation who is the King of the universe. The Psalmist said, “Every day I will bless You.” I, from this point on, desire to specifically and intentionally praise God everyday, and to bless His name. This can only be accomplished in my life by disciplining myself in this area. May I always be mindful of my Creator!
Verse four also got me to thinking about my future. It says, “One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.” When I have children (Lord willing) I want to talk to them about the mighty things of God. I want to pass down the faith from my generation to the next. Just earlier this semester, I coached about twelve third and fourth graders, so I had ample opportunity to relate the things of God to the next generation. May God help me to do so!
I just want to include verse eight because it has been close to my heart for many years. Here the psalmist says, “The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness.” I have learned so much about who God is through the Psalms.
Verse four also got me to thinking about my future. It says, “One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.” When I have children (Lord willing) I want to talk to them about the mighty things of God. I want to pass down the faith from my generation to the next. Just earlier this semester, I coached about twelve third and fourth graders, so I had ample opportunity to relate the things of God to the next generation. May God help me to do so!
I just want to include verse eight because it has been close to my heart for many years. Here the psalmist says, “The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness.” I have learned so much about who God is through the Psalms.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Questions in the Bible
The Bible sets people thinking. In the 1,189 chapters there are 3,298 questions. Only 453 chapters are without a question. One chapter, Job 38, has as many as 40 questions; 2 Samuel 19 has 22 questions; while in the New Testament, 1 Corinthians 9 stands first with 20 questions, closely followed by John 7, with 19 questions.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Crossing the Rubicon
"The year was 49 B.C. The order came down to Julius Caesar to disband his army and give up the struggle. He stood on the banks of the Rubicon River and pondered his dilemma. If he continued his march by crossing the river there could be no turning back. He turned to his troops, tore up his orders, and led his dedicated legion across the Rubicon to march against Rome. This act of commitment to his cause brought about a declaration of war against the Senate and, for Caesar, it paved the way for his becoming ruler of the Roman world. Since that day the phrase, 'crossing the Rubicon', has been used to signify total commitment to a cause from which there can be no turning back."*
I never thought I would compare myself to Julius Caesar, but I've decided to cross the Rubicon in my own life. This past Saturday morning, I got engaged to Miss Amy Hunt. I'm engaged!!! Needless to say, I'm very excited. However, I don't take this decision lightly. This is my act of commitment to Amy. As far as I'm concerned, there is no turning back. You can bet your last dollar on this. I'm not just some smooth-talking windbag!
This is how I proposed. Saturday the 25th was our anniversary. When Amy went to bed Friday night, I went back to my dorm room at Fort Worth Hall. I took a shower, dressed in my finest suit, and headed back over to Amy's house. When I arrived there, I reminded myself that all in the house were asleep (Amy, her parents, and Obi), so I would have to set everything up quietly. Thankfully, Obi didn't notice that anyone had come into the house, so I didn't have to deal with him wanting to play or bark or any of that sort of hubbub.
Once I moved into the living room, I quickly set everything up. Using both tact and reason, I lit some candles and placed the ring (which was in a gift box) under the Christmas tree. When I was ready, I turned out the lights and crept down the hall to Amy's room.
I woke her up by turning on the light. She was confused about why I was there again, and on top of that, why I was wearing a suit. When she questioned me, I simply replied with, "You're dreaming. Come with me." After I made sure she really was awake, I led her by the hand down the hall into the living room. I made sure I shut the door behind me so her parents wouldn't hear us.
I think she was excited that I would come see her in the middle of the night, but little did she know what was about to take place. I told her that Santa Clause came a little bit early this year, and that he had left her a gift under the tree. We walked over to the tree. I picked up the box and opened it for her. I quickly got down on one knee, read her a poem, and asked her to marry me. Her response: "Yes! Of course!" I had to stifle a whole lot of whoopla. She said I was trembling with nervousness. I was in a tizzy.
It was such a joyful and romantic time that I didn't want it to end. It was beautiful! However, it was after 4:00 in the morning at this point, and I badly needed sleep after day full of anticipation and fulfillment (not to mention that I had gone shopping earlier that day as well). We celebrated our engagement and anniversary properly on Saturday evening.
What about Obi? He never woke up while I was there. Even after going into Amy's room where he was, he didn't budge. I guess he too was worn out from the day's events.
Amy and I are happily engaged now! Our joy is unbridled! Wedding plans must be arranged now. We will update when we have more to tell. We ask that you pray for us as we plot a course for spending the rest of our lives together.
*O. S. Hawkins, The Art of Connecting. (Dallas: Guidestone, 2004), 139.
I never thought I would compare myself to Julius Caesar, but I've decided to cross the Rubicon in my own life. This past Saturday morning, I got engaged to Miss Amy Hunt. I'm engaged!!! Needless to say, I'm very excited. However, I don't take this decision lightly. This is my act of commitment to Amy. As far as I'm concerned, there is no turning back. You can bet your last dollar on this. I'm not just some smooth-talking windbag!
This is how I proposed. Saturday the 25th was our anniversary. When Amy went to bed Friday night, I went back to my dorm room at Fort Worth Hall. I took a shower, dressed in my finest suit, and headed back over to Amy's house. When I arrived there, I reminded myself that all in the house were asleep (Amy, her parents, and Obi), so I would have to set everything up quietly. Thankfully, Obi didn't notice that anyone had come into the house, so I didn't have to deal with him wanting to play or bark or any of that sort of hubbub.
Once I moved into the living room, I quickly set everything up. Using both tact and reason, I lit some candles and placed the ring (which was in a gift box) under the Christmas tree. When I was ready, I turned out the lights and crept down the hall to Amy's room.
I woke her up by turning on the light. She was confused about why I was there again, and on top of that, why I was wearing a suit. When she questioned me, I simply replied with, "You're dreaming. Come with me." After I made sure she really was awake, I led her by the hand down the hall into the living room. I made sure I shut the door behind me so her parents wouldn't hear us.
I think she was excited that I would come see her in the middle of the night, but little did she know what was about to take place. I told her that Santa Clause came a little bit early this year, and that he had left her a gift under the tree. We walked over to the tree. I picked up the box and opened it for her. I quickly got down on one knee, read her a poem, and asked her to marry me. Her response: "Yes! Of course!" I had to stifle a whole lot of whoopla. She said I was trembling with nervousness. I was in a tizzy.
It was such a joyful and romantic time that I didn't want it to end. It was beautiful! However, it was after 4:00 in the morning at this point, and I badly needed sleep after day full of anticipation and fulfillment (not to mention that I had gone shopping earlier that day as well). We celebrated our engagement and anniversary properly on Saturday evening.
What about Obi? He never woke up while I was there. Even after going into Amy's room where he was, he didn't budge. I guess he too was worn out from the day's events.
Amy and I are happily engaged now! Our joy is unbridled! Wedding plans must be arranged now. We will update when we have more to tell. We ask that you pray for us as we plot a course for spending the rest of our lives together.
*O. S. Hawkins, The Art of Connecting. (Dallas: Guidestone, 2004), 139.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Imaginary Letter
Dear Children,
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although, I do appreciate being remembered anytime.
How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth just, GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary,especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember -
I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although, I do appreciate being remembered anytime.
How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth just, GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary,especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember -
I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Top 25 Most Influential Books (Updated)
Here's the list for 2006. You can check the November archives for the 2004 and 2005 lists. Keep in mind that no book has influenced my life on the same level as the Bible. I recommend you read it first.
- To Follow Him - Mark Bailey
- Marriable - Hayley & Michael DiMarco
- The Mind of Christ - T. W. Hunt
- The Power of Love - David Jeremiah
- Knowing God - J. I. Packer
- Dangerous Wonder - Michael Yaconelli
- Orthodoxy - G. K. Chesterton
- The Case for Christ - Lee Strobel
- The Case for Faith - Lee Strobel
- Can Man Live Without God - Ravi Zacharias
- Jesus Among Other Gods - Ravi Zacharias
- Mere Christianity - C. S. Lewis
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of The Dawn Treader - C. S. Lewis
- Why I Am a Christian - Norman Geisler & Paul Hoffman
- Why I Believe - D. James Kennedy
- The Ten Things You Can't Say In America - Larry Elder
- Love Your God With All Your Mind - J. P. Moreland
- Worship: Rediscovering the Missing Jewel - Ronald Allen & Gordon Borror
- Blue Like Jazz - Donald Miller
- Give Me a Break - John Stossel
- Loving God - Charles Colson
- Foxe's Book of Martyrs
- Pilgrim's Progress - John Bunyan
- A Guide to Spiritual Success - Tony Evans
- The Cost of Discipleship - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Friday, October 20, 2006
Weekend Update
NEW HOBBY
I have a new hobby. I've become interested in writing on parchment by dipping a fountain pen in a bottle of ink, like in the old days. I have had so much fun with it so far, and I look forward to getting better at it. I have a couple different tips for my pen. Maybe one day I'll make some illuminated manuscripts.
SQUIRREL BITE
A couple of weeks ago, a SWBTS landscaper was bitten by a "sickly" squirrel. My co-workers (Bryan and Todd) and I were monitoring the radio when the SWBTS Physical Plant secretary made the call to security. We couldn't believe it. How do you get bitten by a squirrel?! Here's the deal, the guy thought that the squirrel was dead, so when he reached to pick it up, it surprised him by being alive. It bit him! My question is this: Why was this guy trying to pick up a dead animal with his hands in the first place? They ended up checking him out medically, and they were going to test the squirrel last I heard.
PLAGIARISM
Did you know that you can't quote yourself? What I mean is this: I can't write a paper and then use some of the same material, my own words, in another document. SWBTS considers this plagiarism. I consider it dumb.
STARS OVER BLACKHAWKS
Amy and I went to a Dallas Stars game tonight, where we sat in a Platinum Club Box. Our seats were at the center line. They were fantastic! The game was for the most part uneventful. There were no real fights. There were a couple of close calls, but the refs were always there to stop them. Also, for the majority of the game, the Stars were down. However, in the final minutes of the third period, the ice heated up with goals. The Stars were down 3-1. They scored two goals to tie. Chicago scored a pair to make it 5-3. Then all of a sudden, the Stars scored three goals in a row to win the game with about 40 seconds remaining. The American Airlines Center was roaring. Oh the excitement!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
The White Preacher, The White Song Leader, and The Black Man
One day a teacher of an adult Bible class got up and tested him with this question: "Doctor, what does one do to be saved?"
Jesus replied, "What does the Bible say? How do you interpret it?"
The teacher answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your physical strength and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself."
"That is correct," answered Jesus. "Make a habit of this and you'll be saved."
But the Sunday school teacher, trying to save face, asked, "But...er...but...just who is my neighbor?"
Then Jesus laid into him and said, "A man was going from Atlanta to Albany and some gangsters held him up. When they had robbed him of his wallet and brand-new suit, they beat him up and drove off in his car, leaving him unconscious on the shoulder of the highway.
"Now it just so happened that a white preacher was going down that same highway. When he saw the fellow, he stepped on the gas and went scooting by.
"Shortly afterwards a white Gospel song leader came down the road, and when he saw what had happened, he too stepped on the gas.
"Then a black man traveling that way came upon the fellow, and what he saw moved him to tears. He stopped and bound up his wounds as best he could, drew some water from his water-jug to wipe away the blood and then laid him on the back seat. He drove on into Albany and took him to the hospital and said to the nurse, 'You all take good care of this white man I found on the highway. Here's the only two dollars I got, but you all keep account of what he owes, and if he can't pay it, I'll settle up with you when I make a pay-day.'
"Now if you had been the man held up by gangsters, which of these three--the white preacher, the white song leader, or the black man--would you consider to have been your neighbor?"
The teacher of the adult Bible class said, "Why, of course, the nig--I mean, er...well, er...the one who treated me kindly."
Jesus said, "Well, then you get going and start living like that!"
Jesus replied, "What does the Bible say? How do you interpret it?"
The teacher answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your physical strength and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself."
"That is correct," answered Jesus. "Make a habit of this and you'll be saved."
But the Sunday school teacher, trying to save face, asked, "But...er...but...just who is my neighbor?"
Then Jesus laid into him and said, "A man was going from Atlanta to Albany and some gangsters held him up. When they had robbed him of his wallet and brand-new suit, they beat him up and drove off in his car, leaving him unconscious on the shoulder of the highway.
"Now it just so happened that a white preacher was going down that same highway. When he saw the fellow, he stepped on the gas and went scooting by.
"Shortly afterwards a white Gospel song leader came down the road, and when he saw what had happened, he too stepped on the gas.
"Then a black man traveling that way came upon the fellow, and what he saw moved him to tears. He stopped and bound up his wounds as best he could, drew some water from his water-jug to wipe away the blood and then laid him on the back seat. He drove on into Albany and took him to the hospital and said to the nurse, 'You all take good care of this white man I found on the highway. Here's the only two dollars I got, but you all keep account of what he owes, and if he can't pay it, I'll settle up with you when I make a pay-day.'
"Now if you had been the man held up by gangsters, which of these three--the white preacher, the white song leader, or the black man--would you consider to have been your neighbor?"
The teacher of the adult Bible class said, "Why, of course, the nig--I mean, er...well, er...the one who treated me kindly."
Jesus said, "Well, then you get going and start living like that!"
Thursday, October 12, 2006
A Woman from the Inside Out
This is a little something for you Flash fans out there. It's pretty cool...I wish I were an artist.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
How Well Do You Know Your Hymns?
Pilot's Hymm.......................I'll Fly Away
Dentist's Hymn.....................Crown Him With Many Crowns
Weatherman's Hymn............There Shall Be Showers Of Blessings
Contractor's Hymn...............The Church's One Foundation
The Tailor's Hymn.................Holy, Holy, Holy
The Golfer's Hymn................There Is A Green Hill Faraway
The Politician's Hymn............Standing On The Promises
The Optometrists Hymn........Open My Eyes That I Might See
The IRS Agent's Hymn..........I Surrender All
The Gossip's Hymn................Pass It On
The Electrician's Hymn...........Send The Light
The Shopper's Hymn............Sweet Bye And Bye
The Realtor's Hymn...............I've Got A Mansion Just Over The Hill
The Therapist's Hymn............He Touched Me
The Doctor's Hymn................The Great Physician
And for those who speed on the highway, a few hymns
45mph...........God Will Take Care Of You
65mph...........Nearer My God To Thee
85mph...........This World Is Not My Home
95mph...........Lord, I'm Coming Home
100mph.........Precious Memories
Dentist's Hymn.....................Crown Him With Many Crowns
Weatherman's Hymn............There Shall Be Showers Of Blessings
Contractor's Hymn...............The Church's One Foundation
The Tailor's Hymn.................Holy, Holy, Holy
The Golfer's Hymn................There Is A Green Hill Faraway
The Politician's Hymn............Standing On The Promises
The Optometrists Hymn........Open My Eyes That I Might See
The IRS Agent's Hymn..........I Surrender All
The Gossip's Hymn................Pass It On
The Electrician's Hymn...........Send The Light
The Shopper's Hymn............Sweet Bye And Bye
The Realtor's Hymn...............I've Got A Mansion Just Over The Hill
The Therapist's Hymn............He Touched Me
The Doctor's Hymn................The Great Physician
And for those who speed on the highway, a few hymns
45mph...........God Will Take Care Of You
65mph...........Nearer My God To Thee
85mph...........This World Is Not My Home
95mph...........Lord, I'm Coming Home
100mph.........Precious Memories
Monday, October 02, 2006
Peeling Off Skin
"But the lion told me I must undress first. Mind you, I don't know if he said any words out loud or not.
"I was just going to say that I couldn't undress because I hadn't any clothes on when I suddenly thought that dragons are snaky sort of things and snakes can cast their skins. Oh, of course, thought I, that's what the lion means. So I started scratching myself and my scales began coming off all over the place. And then I scratched a little deeper and, instead of just scales coming off here and there, my whole skin started peeling off beautifully, like it does after an illness, or as if I was a banana. In a minute or two I just stepped out of it. I could see it lying there beside me, looking rather nasty. It was a most lovely feeling. So I started to go down into the well for my bathe.
"But just as I was going to put my feet into the water I looked down and saw that they were all hard and rough and wrinkled and scaly just as they had been before. Oh, that's all right, said I, it only means I had another smaller suit on underneath the first one, and I'll have to get out of it too. So I scratched and tore again and this underskin peeled off beautifully and out I stepped and left it lying beside the other one and went down to the well for my bathe.
"Well, exactly the same thing happened again. And I thought to myself, oh dear, how ever many skins have I got to take off? For I was longing to bathe my leg. So I scratched away for the third time and got off a third skin, just like the others, and stepped out of it. But as soon as I looked at myself in the water I knew it had been no good.
"Then the lion said--but I don't know if it spoke--'You will have to let me undress you.' I was afraid of his claws, I can tell you, but I was pretty nearly desperate now. So I just lay flat down on my back to let him do it.
"The very first tear he made was so deep that I thought it had gone right into my heart. And when he began pulling the skin off, it hurt worse than anything I've ever felt. The only thing that made me able to bear it was just the pleasure of feeling the stuff peel off. You know--if you've ever picked the scab of a sore place. It hurts like a billy-oh but it is such fun to see it coming away."
"I know exactly what you mean," said Edmund.
"Well, he peeled the beastly stuff right off--just as I thought I'd done it myself the other three times, only they hadn't hurt--and there it was lying on the grass: only ever so much thicker, and darker, and more knobbly-looking than the others had been. And there was I as smooth and soft as a peeled switch and smaller than I had been."
The above passage is from pen of C. S. Lewis in his classic The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, which is book five in the Chronicles of Narnia series.
How many times have people tried to cure their own sinfulness? How many times have people attempted to peel off their old nature? There are scores upon scores of religions available that will tell you how you can do this, but they are all empty words.
All religion is is man's attempt to get to God. Christianity is different though. Christianity is God reaching down to man and saving him. Jesus himself said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me" (John 14:6). John also records those most famous words of Jesus, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (3:16). I encourage you to read all of Jesus' words to Nicodemus.
So many people think that they will go to heaven simply because their good outweighs thier bad. They think that if they are good enough they will make it to heaven, as long as they aren't as bad as Hitler or Stalin or Osoma bin Ladin.
The fact of the matter is, no one is good enough to enter heaven. No one! We are all sinners. Paul said, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Man is totally depraved. There is nothing he can do about his situation.
Then, when the Spirit begins to work on a man, struggled often ensue. Finally, when all fighting is done, and that man gives up, then He is ready for Jesus to come in and save him. In other words, Jesus the Righteous is the only one who is mighty to save. He takes those filthy rags that we call our sins and, and He washes them in His precious blood, and we are made clean and pure. Jesus' righteousness is now imputed to our account. Now, instead of dirty sinner lost and going hell, there is a righteous child of God.
Think of it like this. Because of your sin, you are eternally in debt, and hell is the debtors prison. Well, what Jesus did was pay our debts and purchased our redemption. He redeemed us! Those of us who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior are now going to spend eternity in the presence of God. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! Paul writes, "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1).
Of course, allowing Christ to step into our lives can hurt; his wounds can hurt us, but He won't harm us. To quote C. S. Lewis again from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, "Safe? Of course he isn't safe. But he is good, he's the king I tell you."
"I was just going to say that I couldn't undress because I hadn't any clothes on when I suddenly thought that dragons are snaky sort of things and snakes can cast their skins. Oh, of course, thought I, that's what the lion means. So I started scratching myself and my scales began coming off all over the place. And then I scratched a little deeper and, instead of just scales coming off here and there, my whole skin started peeling off beautifully, like it does after an illness, or as if I was a banana. In a minute or two I just stepped out of it. I could see it lying there beside me, looking rather nasty. It was a most lovely feeling. So I started to go down into the well for my bathe.
"But just as I was going to put my feet into the water I looked down and saw that they were all hard and rough and wrinkled and scaly just as they had been before. Oh, that's all right, said I, it only means I had another smaller suit on underneath the first one, and I'll have to get out of it too. So I scratched and tore again and this underskin peeled off beautifully and out I stepped and left it lying beside the other one and went down to the well for my bathe.
"Well, exactly the same thing happened again. And I thought to myself, oh dear, how ever many skins have I got to take off? For I was longing to bathe my leg. So I scratched away for the third time and got off a third skin, just like the others, and stepped out of it. But as soon as I looked at myself in the water I knew it had been no good.
"Then the lion said--but I don't know if it spoke--'You will have to let me undress you.' I was afraid of his claws, I can tell you, but I was pretty nearly desperate now. So I just lay flat down on my back to let him do it.
"The very first tear he made was so deep that I thought it had gone right into my heart. And when he began pulling the skin off, it hurt worse than anything I've ever felt. The only thing that made me able to bear it was just the pleasure of feeling the stuff peel off. You know--if you've ever picked the scab of a sore place. It hurts like a billy-oh but it is such fun to see it coming away."
"I know exactly what you mean," said Edmund.
"Well, he peeled the beastly stuff right off--just as I thought I'd done it myself the other three times, only they hadn't hurt--and there it was lying on the grass: only ever so much thicker, and darker, and more knobbly-looking than the others had been. And there was I as smooth and soft as a peeled switch and smaller than I had been."
The above passage is from pen of C. S. Lewis in his classic The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, which is book five in the Chronicles of Narnia series.
How many times have people tried to cure their own sinfulness? How many times have people attempted to peel off their old nature? There are scores upon scores of religions available that will tell you how you can do this, but they are all empty words.
All religion is is man's attempt to get to God. Christianity is different though. Christianity is God reaching down to man and saving him. Jesus himself said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me" (John 14:6). John also records those most famous words of Jesus, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (3:16). I encourage you to read all of Jesus' words to Nicodemus.
So many people think that they will go to heaven simply because their good outweighs thier bad. They think that if they are good enough they will make it to heaven, as long as they aren't as bad as Hitler or Stalin or Osoma bin Ladin.
The fact of the matter is, no one is good enough to enter heaven. No one! We are all sinners. Paul said, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Man is totally depraved. There is nothing he can do about his situation.
Then, when the Spirit begins to work on a man, struggled often ensue. Finally, when all fighting is done, and that man gives up, then He is ready for Jesus to come in and save him. In other words, Jesus the Righteous is the only one who is mighty to save. He takes those filthy rags that we call our sins and, and He washes them in His precious blood, and we are made clean and pure. Jesus' righteousness is now imputed to our account. Now, instead of dirty sinner lost and going hell, there is a righteous child of God.
Think of it like this. Because of your sin, you are eternally in debt, and hell is the debtors prison. Well, what Jesus did was pay our debts and purchased our redemption. He redeemed us! Those of us who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior are now going to spend eternity in the presence of God. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! Paul writes, "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1).
Of course, allowing Christ to step into our lives can hurt; his wounds can hurt us, but He won't harm us. To quote C. S. Lewis again from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, "Safe? Of course he isn't safe. But he is good, he's the king I tell you."
Friday, September 22, 2006
Blessing God
Greetings! During my small group Bible study last night (which was made up of Josh, Dusty, Nate, Joel, and me), we had a pretty lengthy discussion on what it means to bless God.
Psalm 145:1 says, "I will extol You, my God, O King, And I will bless Your name forever and ever."
I would like to extend Nate's question to the general public: What does it really mean to bless God?
We came up with some pretty good answers, but I would like to hear from you. What do you think it means?
On a side note, I listened to Zao's Parade of Chaos this morning, and I was reminded of how mighty that cd is.
Psalm 145:1 says, "I will extol You, my God, O King, And I will bless Your name forever and ever."
I would like to extend Nate's question to the general public: What does it really mean to bless God?
We came up with some pretty good answers, but I would like to hear from you. What do you think it means?
On a side note, I listened to Zao's Parade of Chaos this morning, and I was reminded of how mighty that cd is.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Vintage21 Jesus Video #4
| In the Spring of 2003, Vintage21 had a four week series on Jesus Christ, taking a deep look at what He said and did. It was difficult at times to get past our preconceived notions that had been developed by staunch, starched Sunday School classes of old. This is a satirical look at what some people think Jesus is like. Thank goodness He's not. | |
Vintage21 Jesus Video #3
| In the Spring of 2003, Vintage21 had a four week series on Jesus Christ, taking a deep look at what He said and did. It was difficult at times to get past our preconceived notions that had been developed by staunch, starched Sunday School classes of old. This is a satirical look at what some people think Jesus is like. Thank goodness He's not. | |
Vintage21 Jesus Video #2
| In the Spring of 2003, Vintage21 had a four week series on Jesus Christ, taking a deep look at what He said and did. It was difficult at times to get past our preconceived notions that had been developed by staunch, starched Sunday School classes of old. This is a satirical look at what some people think Jesus is like. Thank goodness He's not. | |
Vintage21 Jesus Video #1
| In the Spring of 2003, Vintage21 had a four week series on Jesus Christ, taking a deep look at what He said and did. It was difficult at times to get past our preconceived notions that had been developed by staunch, starched Sunday School classes of old. This is a satirical look at what some people think Jesus is like. Thank goodness He's not. | |
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
A Swinging Good Time
My wonderful girlfriend and I went swing dancing last night. We, along with Dave, Kristi, and Chris, learned a dance called the Charleston. Since this was my first time I was a little tense and slow to learn the steps. However, I must say that I enjoyed dancing with Amy and making fun of myself along the way. I think Dave laughed a few times as well.
I've been wanting to take dance lessons for quite some time, and I'm glad I finally went last night. I highly recommend it to anyone (young and old). There were even a few old men out who still had the moves. I hope I'm still that active in my 80s.
The Charleston is a little complicated at first, but the instructors took us through it piece by piece. I could almost do the dance with my partner Amy in its entirety by the end of the session. My shoes just wouldn't slide like I wanted. I also learned some basic moves thanks to Dave. He taught me things like the triple step and the turn.
Bottom line: I had fun and I look forward to doing it again!
I've been wanting to take dance lessons for quite some time, and I'm glad I finally went last night. I highly recommend it to anyone (young and old). There were even a few old men out who still had the moves. I hope I'm still that active in my 80s.
The Charleston is a little complicated at first, but the instructors took us through it piece by piece. I could almost do the dance with my partner Amy in its entirety by the end of the session. My shoes just wouldn't slide like I wanted. I also learned some basic moves thanks to Dave. He taught me things like the triple step and the turn.
Bottom line: I had fun and I look forward to doing it again!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Unfriendly Times
These are unfriendly times. I've noticed that people generally won't wave back at you if you wave at them.
A couple of weeks ago, my co-worker Wes and I drove around the seminary grounds waving at people. Most didn't wave back. We were like, "What is the deal?" We got a lot of blank stares as if what we were doing were a strange thing. Maybe it is strange here in the great state of Texas. Wes and I represent Arkansas and Georgia, where people still wave to one another and are generally friendly towards one another.
I've spent the last six months living with Josh and Dean in a house that Dean just sold. During that time I tried my very best to get to know our next door neighbor. Everytime I saw him outside, I would either wave or speak to him. I never once got a response from him. I never even got an acknowledgement. I might as well not have been there.
I remember riding around with my friend and ex-roommate, Jared Pickard, and he would get so mad when someone in his neighborhood wouldn't wave back at him.
Now I somewhat understand if people of the world refuse to wave, but when people in the church aren't friendly then there's a big problem. I'm telling you, it happens and it shouldn't. Unfriendliness in the church is akin to walking into a bakery and asking for a loaf of bread, only to hear the guy behind the counter ask, "What is this bread you speak of?" It just makes no sense.
Okay, there's my rant for today. Have you experienced this or am I the only one?
*It should be noted that I know a lot of friendly people. I'm just commenting on something I've noticed as of late.
A couple of weeks ago, my co-worker Wes and I drove around the seminary grounds waving at people. Most didn't wave back. We were like, "What is the deal?" We got a lot of blank stares as if what we were doing were a strange thing. Maybe it is strange here in the great state of Texas. Wes and I represent Arkansas and Georgia, where people still wave to one another and are generally friendly towards one another.
I've spent the last six months living with Josh and Dean in a house that Dean just sold. During that time I tried my very best to get to know our next door neighbor. Everytime I saw him outside, I would either wave or speak to him. I never once got a response from him. I never even got an acknowledgement. I might as well not have been there.
I remember riding around with my friend and ex-roommate, Jared Pickard, and he would get so mad when someone in his neighborhood wouldn't wave back at him.
Now I somewhat understand if people of the world refuse to wave, but when people in the church aren't friendly then there's a big problem. I'm telling you, it happens and it shouldn't. Unfriendliness in the church is akin to walking into a bakery and asking for a loaf of bread, only to hear the guy behind the counter ask, "What is this bread you speak of?" It just makes no sense.
Okay, there's my rant for today. Have you experienced this or am I the only one?
*It should be noted that I know a lot of friendly people. I'm just commenting on something I've noticed as of late.
Monday, May 29, 2006
This May...14 Things Remembered
These are the things I've done this May...
1. Turned 25
2. Took three weeks of I-term classes
3. Saw the Yankees beat the Rangers in Arlington
4. Bought a baseball glove
5. Enjoyed a picnic with my church group
6. Went swimming twice
7. Played sand volleyball
8. Had a visit from Jason
9. Phone rang off the hook all month
10. Received cookies from Kat
11. Read five books
12. Worked on Saturdays
13. Saw X-Men 3
14. Visited Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
1. Turned 25
2. Took three weeks of I-term classes
3. Saw the Yankees beat the Rangers in Arlington
4. Bought a baseball glove
5. Enjoyed a picnic with my church group
6. Went swimming twice
7. Played sand volleyball
8. Had a visit from Jason
9. Phone rang off the hook all month
10. Received cookies from Kat
11. Read five books
12. Worked on Saturdays
13. Saw X-Men 3
14. Visited Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
CHIME
I was sitting in class (College Ministry Director) yesterday, and I came up with an acronym to use in ministry. I call it CHIME. Feel free to use it!
Commitment
Honesty
Integrity
Moral Purity
Edification
Commitment
Honesty
Integrity
Moral Purity
Edification
Monday, May 01, 2006
Rest
Isn’t it amazing how so few people can just sit down and remain silent for thirty minutes or more? How come so few people can stand their own company without having to have a crutch such as TV, games, telephone, music, computer, books, etc.? Now, there’s nothing wrong with doing these things, but we also need to take time to rest. Jesus said to his disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and rest” (Mark 6:31 NIV). I readily admit that I don’t do this nearly enough, but I can definitely see the value in quietly resting alone--just the Lord and me. I cherish those times.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Saint Francis of Assisi
There have been numerous books written about the life and times of John Bernardone (better known to the world as Saint Francis of Assisi), and most of them probably have done a great job at presenting his life and character. Among those biographies, Saint Francis of Assisi by Gilbert Keith Chesterton rises to the top level of biographies. Chesterton chose to go a different route with examining the famed Italian who is credited with starting three orders of Christian monkhood. Of course, he mentions in his book some of the famous stories attached to the name of Saint Francis, but Chesterton digs much deeper and gives the history and philosophy that surrounded the monk. However, the purpose of this essay is to describe, summarize, and critique Saint Francis’ life and effectiveness in ministry so that the reader may glean important characteristics that define a Christian leader, and employ them in his or her life. The writer of this essay has identified fourteen characteristics that are worth mentioning.
Saint Francis was a bold and brave man. Chesterton said that there is “a great deal to be said about the man who tried to end the Crusades by talking to the Saracen or who interceded with the Emperor for the birds” (2). He had “courage of heart” (32) because he willingly tried to be a soldier in his youth. Even though that did not work out for him, his brave heart remained nonetheless. Christian leaders have to have a brave heart as well in order to take a stand in this present world and time.
Saint Francis was a “lover of God and he was really and truly a lover of men” (7). Chesterton quipped, “As Saint Francis did not love humanity but men, so he did not love Christianity but Christ” (7). He adored and imitated Christ. Christ was the “pattern on which Saint Francis sought to fashion himself” (108). Chesterton also said that Saint Francis’ “religion was not a thing like a theory but a thing like a love-affair” (8). Some Christian leaders seem to have missed the point of it all. A love relationship with Christ should be sought above all others.
Saint Francis was “one of those people who are popular with everybody in any case” (30). He was a man with an excellent reputation—a man above reproach. Christian leaders should not drag their names, and especially the name of Christ, through the mud, and thus weakening or destroying their witness to a lost world and a confused body of believers.
Saint Francis was a generous giver because “he threw money about both in extravagance and benevolence” (31). He really strove to help out in any way he could by running on “errands of mercy” (34), especially to those “people who had been put hopelessly in the wrong” (31). Saint Francis likely “swore before God that he would never all his life refuse to help a poor man” (33). Chesterton said, “Saint Francis really meant what he said when he said he had found the secret of life in being the servant and the secondary figure” (62). Not only did he give to others, but also he always gave thanks to God for His blessings. He was the giver who gave thanks. Christian leaders should never forget where they came from, whom they belong to, and who provides for their every need.
Saint Francis was a polite, gentle, and kind man. In fact, “all agreed that politeness flowed from him” (32). Chesterton said, “If there was one thing of which so humble a man could be said to be proud, he was proud of his good manners” (32). Chesterton also said that “he seems to have liked everybody” (38), even those who might be viewed as his enemies. When people called him a coward, a thief, or a fool, Saint Francis never lost his cool. A little politeness can go a long way in dealing with people.
Saint Francis was a man strictly concerned with the details, even the smallest of particulars of form in action and conduct. It could be said that he was even punctilious about his punctiliousness. A good leader has to know the big picture and the individual pixels that make up that picture.
Saint Francis was a “man of action” and the “very reverse of a dreamer” (34). He did not sit around lazily like some leaders today. He had a strong work ethic that allowed him to take immediate action when a particular situation arose. When a something tough came along, he did not waver and look incompetent. A good Christian leader will be known as a man of action.
Saint Francis was a positive man. On one occasion, he and several others were thrown in prison during his soldiering days. He “moved among his captive companions…resolved to keep up their spirits and his own” (37). A good leader will inspire his followers and friends. People will not generally follow a negative person. They will grow tired of negativity in a hurry. A good leader realizes this and is careful not to be a glum, downtrodden, defeated person.
Saint Francis was a man of prayer and he was “in the habit of praying” (46). He occasionally sought refuge in solitude, where he attended to prayer and fasting. In those times, he did not even want his close friends around for fear that they would distract him. Where would a Christian leader be with prayer? Prayer is the power source on which leaders run. Without it, churches and Christian organizations would assuredly be in a world of trouble.
Saint Francis was dependant on God his Father. He knew who he was, and he did not rely on his merchant dad for help. On one dramatic occasion before a large crowd, Saint Francis declared, “Up to this time I have called Pietro Bernardone father, but now I am the servant of God” (48). Christian leaders must have this resolve, not to the point of not allowing others to help, but to really depend chiefly on God.
Saint Francis was a hard worker. When he was in charge of rebuilding a house for worship, he jumped in and helped out with his own hands. A good Christian leader will display this same willingness to jump in with both feet and work until Jesus comes back, despite any difficulty that may come along. A good leader will pour his energies into doing whatever it is the Lord has led him or her to do.
Saint Francis had a “passion for simplicity” (51). When he spoke, he desired that his message to be simple enough in so that “the village idiot could understand it” (142). A Christian leader must know his people to be able to effectively lead. There has to be a base level of understanding. Some of the smartest people on earth have the ability to present material in a way that even a child can understand it. That makes a good leader and communicator.
Saint Francis could work well with others. He was a team player. He partnered up with Saint Clare to form an order for women. On another occasion, he met with Saint Dominic, his Spanish opposite. They both sought to end the Crusades, one by conquest and the other by conversion—one by the sword and the other by the Gospel.
Saint Francis had a genuine concern for the lost. He lived by the idea that it was “better to create Christians than to destroy Moslems” (114). Imagine the difference in the world if the Christian church always had that focus in evangelism.
Those are the fourteen main characteristics learned from reading Saint Francis of Assisi. When one thinks of a good Christian leader, each of these will undoubtedly come to mind. Billy Graham, perhaps one of the greatest Christian leaders of our generation, lives out each of these characteristics. May God help leaders all over the world to exhibit and resemble the life that made Saint Francis a man of outstanding character for Christ!
Sunday, April 09, 2006
The Sufficiency of Scripture
This year’s theme for the regional Evangelical Theological Society meeting was The Sufficiency of Scripture. Al Mohler, this year’s Day-Higginbotham lecturer, said that the Sufficiency of Scripture is the major issue of this generation. One would be hard-pressed to argue against that point. As young theologians, learning from the wiser and older ones, students have been given a great opportunity to stand up and affirm this necessary doctrine of the faith.
When affirming this doctrine, one is in effect saying that the Scriptures are not lacking in any way. What exactly does that mean, though? Is Scripture sufficient for helping to decide which shirt to wear, which car to drive, or giving instructions on how to sew? No, that’s silly. What is meant by the Sufficiency of Scripture is this, the Bible is sufficient is everyway for salvation. Paul in Romans 10:17 sums this up, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing from the Word of Christ.”
There is not a robust affirmation in Christianity today of this doctrine. The Roman Catholics, for example, will teach that Scripture is not sufficient. They have a whole system of tradition that holds to a works-based salvation. It seems way too often, even in Baptist circles (the people of the Book) that one will acknowledge it with his lips as a formality, but then in practice disregard God’s Word almost totally. As Mohler pointed out in his chapel address at Southwestern Seminary, there are too many books in Christian bookstores that are merely proclaiming the world’s wisdom with Bible verse tacked on. Christians today will try to “baptize” anything and deem it Christian.
The Bible itself teaches an absolute sufficiency. This means that Christians should be teaching both the New Testament and the Old Testament. Preach the Word! Do not preach any other garbage! Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 writes, “All Scripture is inspired (God-breathed) by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” Notice that Paul did not add anything to that. If the Bible is not preached, then what is? This is a scary question when considered in light of the urgency of preaching the Gospel. There are people sitting in pews today that are dying and on their way to Hell, and what is being preached but that which will tickle their ears or make them feel good about themselves?
Jesus teaches the doctrine of the Sufficiency of Scripture in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus found in Luke 16:19-31. When the rich man asked Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers, Abraham responded, “They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them” (v. 29). The rich man then begged, “No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!” (v. 30). Abraham, in the parable, then says these words, “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets (The Word of God), they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead” (v. 31). Jesus, the very person, who spoke the words of this parable, indeed rose from the dead. The very ones who rejected His message also rejected his Resurrection. Their hearts were hardened. A person either will or will not trust the Word of God. All too often, many follow the logic of the rich man in Jesus’ parable.
Mohler asked those in attendance in Chapel, “Do you think you can reach someone where the Word of God cannot reach them?” The rich man’s logic is not sufficient, the Bible is. Abraham’s logic must be followed. The Word (working with the Spirit of God) must be trusted to accomplish the changing of hearts. When Martin Luther addressed his zealous students concerning private altars in the homes of certain people where mass was being observed, he told them that they (poor sinners) could not change the people. He said, “The Word of God must accomplish this thing.”
Mohler, in his second address, said that Evangelicalism must be committed to some theological method, and that method is the Sufficiency of Scripture. He asked, “Does it really matter in the 21st Century about sola scriptura?" It absolutely matters. Every major issue that the church faces today is tied in with this doctrine. One example of this is the roles of men and women. Others include the sanctity of human life and evolution.
The Bible also sets forth an absolute and enduring morality. The Bible is not only sufficient for leading one to salvation, but it is also sufficient for moral and ethical teaching. Aristotle taught that a person could become virtuous in two ways: watching others that are virtuous and listening to stories that teach virtues. The Word of God must be preached in the Church today!
All too often in Christians’ lives, textbooks supersede the Bible in their practice. One will even say, “I know the Bible says this, but….” That is the problem; there are too many buts in Christianity today. By affirming the Bible’s sufficiency, one must also affirm its authority. Likewise, the Bible’s authority cannot be affirmed without the Bible being sufficient. One is dependant on the other. When Luther’s authority was challenged, he replied that he had to be convicted by Scripture and plain reason. He had to stand on the Word of God for his authority. As Mohler put it, all other norms must be normed by the Holy Scripture. Scripture is the norm of norms that cannot be normed.
The Church is always accountable to the Word of God. As alluded to earlier, Luther said that the Word and the Spirit would reform the Church. The reformers staked their lives and liberties on the affirmation of the doctrine of the Sufficiency of Scripture. They chose to defy the authority of Rome and stick with Scripture’s plain teachings. Mohler said that the Word of God norms Rome, Princeton, Dallas, and Louisville. All will be held accountable.
The Sufficiency of Scripture must be affirmed in order for one to remain evangelical. However, there are those today within evangelicalism who are trying their best to deny it. Mohler stated that human sexuality would be the test case of this generation. Was Paul right concerning sexuality in Romans 1, or was he mistaken? People are doing all sorts of things with the Bible dealing with homosexuality. Some will ignore it altogether. Others try to discredit the passages that speak against it. Still others do not allow the Bible to have the final word. They merely see it as one voice in a room of competing voices. The Bible’s words on homosexuality are clear; it condemns it. However, some say that those words are no longer living; they are dead to the present world.
Overall, the Day-Higginbotham lectures by Al Mohler were both interesting and informative. The Sufficiency of Scripture is crucial in evangelical theology. It always has been, and it always will be. It must be taught and affirmed continually. One would do well to believe Moses and the Prophets!
When affirming this doctrine, one is in effect saying that the Scriptures are not lacking in any way. What exactly does that mean, though? Is Scripture sufficient for helping to decide which shirt to wear, which car to drive, or giving instructions on how to sew? No, that’s silly. What is meant by the Sufficiency of Scripture is this, the Bible is sufficient is everyway for salvation. Paul in Romans 10:17 sums this up, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing from the Word of Christ.”
There is not a robust affirmation in Christianity today of this doctrine. The Roman Catholics, for example, will teach that Scripture is not sufficient. They have a whole system of tradition that holds to a works-based salvation. It seems way too often, even in Baptist circles (the people of the Book) that one will acknowledge it with his lips as a formality, but then in practice disregard God’s Word almost totally. As Mohler pointed out in his chapel address at Southwestern Seminary, there are too many books in Christian bookstores that are merely proclaiming the world’s wisdom with Bible verse tacked on. Christians today will try to “baptize” anything and deem it Christian.
The Bible itself teaches an absolute sufficiency. This means that Christians should be teaching both the New Testament and the Old Testament. Preach the Word! Do not preach any other garbage! Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 writes, “All Scripture is inspired (God-breathed) by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” Notice that Paul did not add anything to that. If the Bible is not preached, then what is? This is a scary question when considered in light of the urgency of preaching the Gospel. There are people sitting in pews today that are dying and on their way to Hell, and what is being preached but that which will tickle their ears or make them feel good about themselves?
Jesus teaches the doctrine of the Sufficiency of Scripture in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus found in Luke 16:19-31. When the rich man asked Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers, Abraham responded, “They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them” (v. 29). The rich man then begged, “No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!” (v. 30). Abraham, in the parable, then says these words, “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets (The Word of God), they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead” (v. 31). Jesus, the very person, who spoke the words of this parable, indeed rose from the dead. The very ones who rejected His message also rejected his Resurrection. Their hearts were hardened. A person either will or will not trust the Word of God. All too often, many follow the logic of the rich man in Jesus’ parable.
Mohler asked those in attendance in Chapel, “Do you think you can reach someone where the Word of God cannot reach them?” The rich man’s logic is not sufficient, the Bible is. Abraham’s logic must be followed. The Word (working with the Spirit of God) must be trusted to accomplish the changing of hearts. When Martin Luther addressed his zealous students concerning private altars in the homes of certain people where mass was being observed, he told them that they (poor sinners) could not change the people. He said, “The Word of God must accomplish this thing.”
Mohler, in his second address, said that Evangelicalism must be committed to some theological method, and that method is the Sufficiency of Scripture. He asked, “Does it really matter in the 21st Century about sola scriptura?" It absolutely matters. Every major issue that the church faces today is tied in with this doctrine. One example of this is the roles of men and women. Others include the sanctity of human life and evolution.
The Bible also sets forth an absolute and enduring morality. The Bible is not only sufficient for leading one to salvation, but it is also sufficient for moral and ethical teaching. Aristotle taught that a person could become virtuous in two ways: watching others that are virtuous and listening to stories that teach virtues. The Word of God must be preached in the Church today!
All too often in Christians’ lives, textbooks supersede the Bible in their practice. One will even say, “I know the Bible says this, but….” That is the problem; there are too many buts in Christianity today. By affirming the Bible’s sufficiency, one must also affirm its authority. Likewise, the Bible’s authority cannot be affirmed without the Bible being sufficient. One is dependant on the other. When Luther’s authority was challenged, he replied that he had to be convicted by Scripture and plain reason. He had to stand on the Word of God for his authority. As Mohler put it, all other norms must be normed by the Holy Scripture. Scripture is the norm of norms that cannot be normed.
The Church is always accountable to the Word of God. As alluded to earlier, Luther said that the Word and the Spirit would reform the Church. The reformers staked their lives and liberties on the affirmation of the doctrine of the Sufficiency of Scripture. They chose to defy the authority of Rome and stick with Scripture’s plain teachings. Mohler said that the Word of God norms Rome, Princeton, Dallas, and Louisville. All will be held accountable.
The Sufficiency of Scripture must be affirmed in order for one to remain evangelical. However, there are those today within evangelicalism who are trying their best to deny it. Mohler stated that human sexuality would be the test case of this generation. Was Paul right concerning sexuality in Romans 1, or was he mistaken? People are doing all sorts of things with the Bible dealing with homosexuality. Some will ignore it altogether. Others try to discredit the passages that speak against it. Still others do not allow the Bible to have the final word. They merely see it as one voice in a room of competing voices. The Bible’s words on homosexuality are clear; it condemns it. However, some say that those words are no longer living; they are dead to the present world.
Overall, the Day-Higginbotham lectures by Al Mohler were both interesting and informative. The Sufficiency of Scripture is crucial in evangelical theology. It always has been, and it always will be. It must be taught and affirmed continually. One would do well to believe Moses and the Prophets!
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Words From The French Weasel
I recently finished reading The Words, an autobiography by Jean-Paul Sartre, the French Existentialist philosopher. I would like to point out that Mr. Sartre admitted that he did not believe in God, at least at the time of the writing of this book in 1964. There is no real evidence in his autobiography that he ever believed. The following are some quotes that I have selected for your education and enjoyment. I have even added some personal commentary on a few of them."Dying isn't everything: one must die in time."
"Truth flows from the mouth of babes and sucklings."
"I have no rights, since love heaps blessings upon me; I have no duties, since I give out of love."
"Whatever their poverty, they will never suffer as much as my grandfather did: when he was little, he would get up before dawn and dress in the dark; in winter, he had to break the ice in the water jug in order to wash." (Sartre's grandfather was Charles Schweitzer, the brother of the famed liberal theologian, Albert Schweitzer.)
"I never tilled the soil or hunted for nests. I did not gather herbs or throw stones at birds. But books were my birds and my nests, my household pets, my barn and my countryside. The library was the world caught in a mirror. It had the world's infinite thickness, its variety." (As a kid, his whole world was books. He began early by just looking at the words. It wasn't long before he was reading, much sooner than his friends. By age 8, he was already filling notebooks with his own novels. I do respect his love for books though. Libraries are great. I seem to be amassing my own.)
"In our bustling societies, delays sometimes give a head start." (We could all benefit from slowing down. I mean seriously, everything has to be instant these days. In the old days, letters were written and there was plenty of time for thinking in order to give a response. Now, with email and instant messaging, responses are expected right away. People want answers now, and not a second later.)
"The tribulations of my friends convinced me that I was their equal." (We all suffer. We call have troubles. Jesus said that in this world we would have troubles, but we should cheer up because He has overcome this world.)
"All children are inspired; they have nothing to envy poets, who are just children."
"Even now I still have that minor vice, familiarity."
"God would have managed things for me. I would have been signed a masterpiece. Assured of playing my part in the universal concert, I would have patiently waited for Him to reveal His purposes and my necessity. I reached out for religion, I longed for it, it was remedy. Had it been denied me, I would have invented it myself. It was not denied me. Raised in the Catholic faith, I learned that the Almighty had made me for His glory. That was more than I dared dream. But later, I did not recognize in the fashionable God in whom I was taught to believe the one whom my soul was awaiting. I needed a Creator; I was given a Big Boss. The two were one and the same, but I did not realize it. I was serving, without zeal, the Idol of the Pharisees, and the official doctrine put me off seeking my own faith. What luck! Confidence and sorrow made my soul a choice soil for sowing the seeds of heaven. Were it not for that mistake, I would now be a monk. But my family had been affected by the slow movement of dechristianization that started among the Voltairian upper bourgeoisie and took a century to spread to all levels of society. Without that general weakening of faith, Louise Guillemin, a Catholic young lady from the provinces, would have made a show of greater reluctance to marry a Lutheran. Of course, our whole family believed in God, as a matter of discretion. Seven or eight years after the Combes cabinet, declared disbelief had the violence and raucousness of passion. An atheist was a 'character,' a wildman whom one did not invite to dinner lest he 'lash out,' a fanatic encumbered with taboos who refused the right to kneel in church, to weep sweetly there, to give his daughters a religious wedding, who took it upon himself to prove the truth of his doctrine by the purity of his morals, who hounded himself and his happiness to the point of depriving himself of the means of dying comforted, a God-obsessed crank who saw His absence everywhere and who could not open his mouth without uttering His name; in short, a gentleman who had religious convictions. The believer had none." (Legalists, let this be a warning to you! Christians, how are you going to fair against the raging storm of our culture? I also find Sartre's ironies of the atheist to be quite humorous.)
"Another me, my grim brother, would languidly challenge all the articles of faith. I was a Catholic and a Protestant; I united the critical spirit and the spirit of submission. At bottom, the whole business bored me. I was led to disbelief not by the conflict of dogmas, but by my grandparents' indifference." ("Now, we must all fear evil men. But there is another kind of evil...which we must fear most, and that is the indifference...of good men!")
"Whenever anyone speaks to me about God today, I say, with the easy amusement of an old beau who meets a former belle: 'Fifty years ago, had it not been for that misunderstanding, that mistake, the accident that separated us, there might have been something between us.'" (That's really sad...what a pity!)
"Suddenly there was an opportunity to shine: 'What is your fondest wish?' I replied without hesitation: 'To be a soldier and avenge the dead.'" (Jean-Paul was so bad that the French army kicked him out in a time of war. Not that's pathetic!)
"I was seven and knew how to read; it was twelve and did not know how to talk." (Here he is referring to movies, which were still silent in those days.)
"One speaks in one's own language, one writes in a foreign language."
"Wanting to be a hero is not enough. Neither courage nor the gift suffices; there must be hydras and dragons." (There must be a testing to see what you are made of.)
"As a rhetorician, I cared only for words: I would set up cathedrals of words beneath the blue eyes of the word sky."
"My grandfather thought I was tiny, and he was upset about it. 'He'll be short, like the Sartres,' my grandmother would say, just to annoy him. He would pretend not to hear, he would stand in front of me and look me up and down: 'He's growing!' he would say, without much conviction. I shared neither his anxieties nor his hopes: weeds also grow, which was proof that one could become tall and still be bad." (I found Sartre's comment to be funny!)
"I was often told that the past drives us forward, but I was convinced that I was being drawn by the future."
"As for me, I don't hold grudges and I obligingly admit everything; I'm always ready to criticize myself, provided I'm not forced to." (I don't like to be forced to do things either. I prefer to do things out of love and commitment. I love to read, but when school forces me to read something, it just isn't enjoyable.)
Monday, April 03, 2006
Evil Empire?
N.Y. Yankees aid burglarized SBC church
Published March 16, 2006
The Christian Index
NEW YORK (BP) — The New York Yankees, though just in spring training, stepped up to the plate to assist a Bronx church and its soup kitchen after a break-in.
The Yankees, whose stadium also is in the Bronx, presented a check for $20,000 to Daniel Dupree and Greater Universal Baptist Church on Feb. 23 to cover losses the church sustained during the Feb. 7 burglary.
The Yankees “are truly a blessing,” said Dupree, who has served as Greater Universal’s pastor for 10 of the Southern Baptist church’s 52 years. “We believe God placed it on their hearts to come through for us.”
When Dupree arrived at the church on the morning of Feb. 8, the building had been ransacked; the church’s safe, a television camera and various office supplies were missing. Dupree estimates less than $5,000 was stolen from the safe, but the total loss to the church was around $20,000. There was no sign of a break-in and a police investigation continues.
The team was made aware of Greater Universal’s situation through Bronx Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo.
“When we heard what had happened to our neighbor, we wanted to reach out and enable them to continue their much-needed community service,” said Lonn Trost, the Yankees’ chief operating officer, in a press release issued by the team.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Beauty School Drop-outs
Rock Star & Razr
The Shan
Caught Red-Handed
"We've never done this before."
From Brown to Cherry RedSunday, March 26, 2006
Saturday, March 25, 2006
San Antonio Pics
San Antonio (Saint Anthony)
Me
Me and Jason @ The Westin
Jason
Jason and his sister ElizabethThursday, March 23, 2006
Dear R.C.
I flew home this past Monday because of the death of my friend and former youth, R. C. Allison. The funeral was on Tuesday, and Sparta Baptist Church was packed with people in the sanctuary, hallways, fellowship hall, foyers, and nursery. I've never seen so many people there for anything. That was the impact that R. C. had on people. He loved all, and all love him. So I've decided to write him a letter. As my friend Betsy says, writing is therapeutic.
Dear R. C.,
I'll never forget you, my friend. You will be missed for now. We had many good times together. I think of all the times we shared laughs and more serious conversations.
I remember when I first met you at Camp Crawfordville. My first memory of you is playing volleyball. I even think I have you on video. You were so young then. Speaking of video. I remember that video scavenger hunt we did at the Pierce Memorial UMC VBS. That was hilarious.
Oh, what about the time you, me, Kyle, Wesley, Ben, and Jesse went camping at the quarry! Haha. We almost burned all of our stuff when a can exploded from the fire and coals went everywhere. It was quite a sight! What about the time we were in the woods and you decided to start a fire. That one almost got out of control. We went to church that night smelling like smoke.
I remember going to Six Flags with you, Kyle, Kevin, and their mom. There was a girl that Kyle was checking out, and you told him not to stare. You two together always had a way to make me laugh. I was usually left shaking my head and smiling.
I really enjoyed being your youth minister. Sometimes I couldn't keep you quiet, and at other times you were the biggest help in keeping others quiet. No matter what you did, no one could really get mad at you. That just the kind of person you were. It was great getting to teach you from the Bible, taking you to camp and retreat, riding with you to eat in Sandersville, and just hanging out with you for the fun of it.
Do you remember the time Ben and I came over and we spent about an hour and a half discussing the theory of time travel. Man we were getting deep!
I remember four years ago when Jamie and Amanda got married. We were there together. You came up to me, and I guess you read my face like a book. You knew what I was thinking. 'Will I ever get married?' You encouraged me so well. You were a good friend.
The sheer number of people that showed up at the funeral home and the funeral showed proved that you were a good friend to a great many. You had quite an impact on people. Bro. Jerry and I were talking about you. You were like one of our own (a son to him and a brother to me). To tell you the truth, I've never seen Bro. Jerry more upset than at your funeral. He loved you, and so did me and Jamie. Shoot, a lot of people loved you. Bro. Jerry and Bro. Allen did a good job at your funeral. You would be very proud of them. I don't know if you were able to watch or not (I don't know how that works), but it went well. I hurt with your family for their loss. As I told your granny, 'we grieve, but not like those who have no hope.'
You, however, I'm happy for. You have gone home to be with Jesus Christ. It must be something absolutely wonderful!
Man, I could go on and on, but I'll stop for now. I look forward to seeing you again and talking with you about so many things. We never were able to get together to eat before I left for Texas, but we shall feast together in heaven.
I don't know how long I have left on this crazy world (only the Lord does), but to you it will seem only be a few minutes before I join you in heaven. Until then, I bid you farewell.
Your friend,
Bob
Dear R. C.,
I'll never forget you, my friend. You will be missed for now. We had many good times together. I think of all the times we shared laughs and more serious conversations.
I remember when I first met you at Camp Crawfordville. My first memory of you is playing volleyball. I even think I have you on video. You were so young then. Speaking of video. I remember that video scavenger hunt we did at the Pierce Memorial UMC VBS. That was hilarious.
Oh, what about the time you, me, Kyle, Wesley, Ben, and Jesse went camping at the quarry! Haha. We almost burned all of our stuff when a can exploded from the fire and coals went everywhere. It was quite a sight! What about the time we were in the woods and you decided to start a fire. That one almost got out of control. We went to church that night smelling like smoke.
I remember going to Six Flags with you, Kyle, Kevin, and their mom. There was a girl that Kyle was checking out, and you told him not to stare. You two together always had a way to make me laugh. I was usually left shaking my head and smiling.
I really enjoyed being your youth minister. Sometimes I couldn't keep you quiet, and at other times you were the biggest help in keeping others quiet. No matter what you did, no one could really get mad at you. That just the kind of person you were. It was great getting to teach you from the Bible, taking you to camp and retreat, riding with you to eat in Sandersville, and just hanging out with you for the fun of it.
Do you remember the time Ben and I came over and we spent about an hour and a half discussing the theory of time travel. Man we were getting deep!
I remember four years ago when Jamie and Amanda got married. We were there together. You came up to me, and I guess you read my face like a book. You knew what I was thinking. 'Will I ever get married?' You encouraged me so well. You were a good friend.
The sheer number of people that showed up at the funeral home and the funeral showed proved that you were a good friend to a great many. You had quite an impact on people. Bro. Jerry and I were talking about you. You were like one of our own (a son to him and a brother to me). To tell you the truth, I've never seen Bro. Jerry more upset than at your funeral. He loved you, and so did me and Jamie. Shoot, a lot of people loved you. Bro. Jerry and Bro. Allen did a good job at your funeral. You would be very proud of them. I don't know if you were able to watch or not (I don't know how that works), but it went well. I hurt with your family for their loss. As I told your granny, 'we grieve, but not like those who have no hope.'
You, however, I'm happy for. You have gone home to be with Jesus Christ. It must be something absolutely wonderful!
Man, I could go on and on, but I'll stop for now. I look forward to seeing you again and talking with you about so many things. We never were able to get together to eat before I left for Texas, but we shall feast together in heaven.
I don't know how long I have left on this crazy world (only the Lord does), but to you it will seem only be a few minutes before I join you in heaven. Until then, I bid you farewell.
Your friend,
Bob
Monday, March 20, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Days 6, 7, & 8
Here's a recap of my last three days with Jason in San Antonio.
On Friday, St. Patrick's Day, we met up with his friends (and mine now) to see V for Vendetta. Great movie! The message, however, is very clear. If you've seen the movie, you know what I'm talking about. If you are planning on seeing it soon (don't worry, I won't ruin it for you), you won't be disappointed. After the movie, we met back at Jason's house to hang out for a while. After most had left, a few of us watched Boondock Saints to celebrate the holiday. Oh yeah, for the first part of the day, Jason and I worked on our book idea.
On Saturday, we worked on the book some more. We imagined what it must have been for writers such as Tolkien and Lewis to sit down together and work on material. That evening, we went over to Kimberly's house for dinner. Johnny, Elizabeth's boyfriend, joined us and we had a grand old time. The weather was perfect. The wind and temperature provided a great backdrop for backporch grilling and chatting. The dinner itself was fantastic (grilled chicken, salad, rice, grilled vegetables, etc...mmmm)! After we ate, we watched The Count of Monte Christo. Excellent movie! "GOD WILL GIVE ME JUSTICE." Amen!
Sunday was a sad day because I had to leave. Jason and I went to UUMC that morning, and I said goodbye to the gang. Elizabeth treated us to Papasitto's for lunch. When we got back to the house, I gathered my belongings and said my goodbyes to Johnny, Elizabeth, and Jason. The trip back was horrible. A four hour drive turned into six hours! It was a combination of the weather and the Spring Break traffic.
I want to thank Jason, his family, and his friends for their gracious hospitality! I really enjoyed my Spring Break in San Antonio! 'Till next time...
On Friday, St. Patrick's Day, we met up with his friends (and mine now) to see V for Vendetta. Great movie! The message, however, is very clear. If you've seen the movie, you know what I'm talking about. If you are planning on seeing it soon (don't worry, I won't ruin it for you), you won't be disappointed. After the movie, we met back at Jason's house to hang out for a while. After most had left, a few of us watched Boondock Saints to celebrate the holiday. Oh yeah, for the first part of the day, Jason and I worked on our book idea.
On Saturday, we worked on the book some more. We imagined what it must have been for writers such as Tolkien and Lewis to sit down together and work on material. That evening, we went over to Kimberly's house for dinner. Johnny, Elizabeth's boyfriend, joined us and we had a grand old time. The weather was perfect. The wind and temperature provided a great backdrop for backporch grilling and chatting. The dinner itself was fantastic (grilled chicken, salad, rice, grilled vegetables, etc...mmmm)! After we ate, we watched The Count of Monte Christo. Excellent movie! "GOD WILL GIVE ME JUSTICE." Amen!
Sunday was a sad day because I had to leave. Jason and I went to UUMC that morning, and I said goodbye to the gang. Elizabeth treated us to Papasitto's for lunch. When we got back to the house, I gathered my belongings and said my goodbyes to Johnny, Elizabeth, and Jason. The trip back was horrible. A four hour drive turned into six hours! It was a combination of the weather and the Spring Break traffic.
I want to thank Jason, his family, and his friends for their gracious hospitality! I really enjoyed my Spring Break in San Antonio! 'Till next time...
Friday, March 17, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Day Five
Another great day! Sleep and reading made up the first part of the day. Then Jason's friend, Christine, came over and the three of us had a good time discussing life. After a while we went to Border's and Barnes and Noble to spend some more time in the book stores. Book stores are wonderful by the way. We also made a trip to Old Navy for Jason to get a St. Patrick's Day shirt and to Target for me to get mine. Christine also bought some stuff and both places, but I can't remember what they were.
Tonight was Bible Study night for the college group at UUMC, so that's where we went next. We had an awesome time singing, studying the Word, and praying together. They are such a great group...Jason has some great friends, and it was fun meeting them.
Afterwards, we (me, Jason, Lauren, Kara, Brian, and Christine) headed over to Double Daves Pizza for some supper. This is also Adam's workplace, and since he was working, we got a 20% discount. Hooray for Adam! The pizza rolls were fantastic...definitely the best I've ever had! The fellowship of friends was good too. I really enjoyed chatting with Brian about the NCAA tournament and Da Spurs.
Ice Age was next on the agenda. We met back at Jason's to watch the movie. It was my first time seeing it, as well as Kara's, and I have to say it was very funny.
Don't forget, "It's St. Patty's Day, everyone's Irish today."
Tonight was Bible Study night for the college group at UUMC, so that's where we went next. We had an awesome time singing, studying the Word, and praying together. They are such a great group...Jason has some great friends, and it was fun meeting them.
Afterwards, we (me, Jason, Lauren, Kara, Brian, and Christine) headed over to Double Daves Pizza for some supper. This is also Adam's workplace, and since he was working, we got a 20% discount. Hooray for Adam! The pizza rolls were fantastic...definitely the best I've ever had! The fellowship of friends was good too. I really enjoyed chatting with Brian about the NCAA tournament and Da Spurs.
Ice Age was next on the agenda. We met back at Jason's to watch the movie. It was my first time seeing it, as well as Kara's, and I have to say it was very funny.
Don't forget, "It's St. Patty's Day, everyone's Irish today."
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Day Four
Today, we slept in. It was very nice. For lunch we ordered a pizza from Pizza Hut, and watched TV for a while. Then it was off to the local book stores to do some research for our book.
When we got to Borders, we realized that neither of us brought anything to write with or on. However, Borders sells journals and such. We'll just buy a pen and a journal...so we thought. The journal wouldn't have been a problem. The pen, however, was. I can't believe they don't sell pens. There were no stores nearby either so we took ourselves to Target to get some cheap notebooks and pens.
In the same shopping center stood Barnes and Noble. We went in, found some books to check out, and found a table. As time passed, our table acquired more and more books. We found some good ones, and we found some not so good ones for our research. I wish I could tell you more about it, but I'll keep it between me and Jason for now.
After spending three or four hours in the bookstores, we headed back to the house for dinner. We watched Tarzan with Elizabeth, and then headed out to go flip some cards with the boys (some of Jason's friends). The game (which lasted several hours) was Texas Hold 'Em (tournament style), and I ended up in second place! I had a good time hanging out with those guys.
As for moving to San Antonio, Jason is up to reason #5,005 (we skipped around a bit). Well, I'm really tired now, so I'm signing off. Chill to the next episode!
When we got to Borders, we realized that neither of us brought anything to write with or on. However, Borders sells journals and such. We'll just buy a pen and a journal...so we thought. The journal wouldn't have been a problem. The pen, however, was. I can't believe they don't sell pens. There were no stores nearby either so we took ourselves to Target to get some cheap notebooks and pens.
In the same shopping center stood Barnes and Noble. We went in, found some books to check out, and found a table. As time passed, our table acquired more and more books. We found some good ones, and we found some not so good ones for our research. I wish I could tell you more about it, but I'll keep it between me and Jason for now.
After spending three or four hours in the bookstores, we headed back to the house for dinner. We watched Tarzan with Elizabeth, and then headed out to go flip some cards with the boys (some of Jason's friends). The game (which lasted several hours) was Texas Hold 'Em (tournament style), and I ended up in second place! I had a good time hanging out with those guys.
As for moving to San Antonio, Jason is up to reason #5,005 (we skipped around a bit). Well, I'm really tired now, so I'm signing off. Chill to the next episode!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Day Three
Hello all! Thank you for joining me again for this edition of my ventures in San Antonio. I think Jason and I are on Reason #3122 for me moving down here. Things have been great, and I'm loving it.
This morning, Jason made some excellent pancakes for brunch and we were off to see the Alamo. Before we go there though, we stopped in to see Kimberly, Jason's sister who provided us with the Spurs tickets. We also ended up going to visit Elizabeth again at the Westin.
When we arrived at the Alamo, I was impressed. I've read and studied about it (I mean, I did major in history), but to actually see it in person was quite an honor. Since it is spring break, there were so many people there...people everywhere. You're supposed to be quiet and respectful when visiting the old Spanish mission, but anything but quiet and respectful was happening today. After checking it out and snapping a few photographs, we left to head towards the Quarry area of San Antonio.
Jason had applied for a youth position at a church over there, so we stopped in so he could check up on it. While he was inside talking to the youth pastor, I was outside doing some photography. There was some beautiful architecture. I found my way into a garden chapel, it was a great opportunity to pause and reflect on God's greatness. After a bit, I went back outside to take some more pictures. That's when an old couple (obviously German and from out of town) decided to flag me down and ask me for directions. I really wanted to help them, but I myself wasn't from around here...so I pointed the way to the church office.
I eventually made my way inside to find Jason. He and the youth pastor were talking and they invited me in to join them. After a bit more of chatting, we were able to tour the church. They have fantastic facilities with a lot of room for growth. The sanctuary was beautifully built in the old gothic style in the shape of a cross (cruciform), like so many sanctuaries and cathedrals. It's designed to aid in worship. Unfortunately, most of our churches have to operate on a very tight budget and can't build sanctuaries that cause you to stand in awe of God's majesty.
After that, we headed back to Jason's house to eat. That was the plan anyway. We ended up just watching TV and falling asleep for a little while. This was not a bad thing, however, because we needed to rest before we went to the game.
Ah yes, the game! Go Spurs Go! I had a blast at the SBC Center, home of the San Antonio Spurs, NBA Champions 1999, 2003, and 2005. The New Orleans Hornets kept it a pretty close game with the Spurs only getting ahead by ten points at any given time. It was a great game! I loved getting to see Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Brent Barry, Michael Finley, Manu Ginobili, Robert Horry, and Nick Van Exel. What a great team! The Spurs defeated the Hornets 96-81.
After the game we came back home, laughing all the way. Tomorrow, we turn our attention to our book idea. Tune in tomorrow for more updates on the adventures in San Antonio.
This morning, Jason made some excellent pancakes for brunch and we were off to see the Alamo. Before we go there though, we stopped in to see Kimberly, Jason's sister who provided us with the Spurs tickets. We also ended up going to visit Elizabeth again at the Westin.
When we arrived at the Alamo, I was impressed. I've read and studied about it (I mean, I did major in history), but to actually see it in person was quite an honor. Since it is spring break, there were so many people there...people everywhere. You're supposed to be quiet and respectful when visiting the old Spanish mission, but anything but quiet and respectful was happening today. After checking it out and snapping a few photographs, we left to head towards the Quarry area of San Antonio.
Jason had applied for a youth position at a church over there, so we stopped in so he could check up on it. While he was inside talking to the youth pastor, I was outside doing some photography. There was some beautiful architecture. I found my way into a garden chapel, it was a great opportunity to pause and reflect on God's greatness. After a bit, I went back outside to take some more pictures. That's when an old couple (obviously German and from out of town) decided to flag me down and ask me for directions. I really wanted to help them, but I myself wasn't from around here...so I pointed the way to the church office.
I eventually made my way inside to find Jason. He and the youth pastor were talking and they invited me in to join them. After a bit more of chatting, we were able to tour the church. They have fantastic facilities with a lot of room for growth. The sanctuary was beautifully built in the old gothic style in the shape of a cross (cruciform), like so many sanctuaries and cathedrals. It's designed to aid in worship. Unfortunately, most of our churches have to operate on a very tight budget and can't build sanctuaries that cause you to stand in awe of God's majesty.
After that, we headed back to Jason's house to eat. That was the plan anyway. We ended up just watching TV and falling asleep for a little while. This was not a bad thing, however, because we needed to rest before we went to the game.
Ah yes, the game! Go Spurs Go! I had a blast at the SBC Center, home of the San Antonio Spurs, NBA Champions 1999, 2003, and 2005. The New Orleans Hornets kept it a pretty close game with the Spurs only getting ahead by ten points at any given time. It was a great game! I loved getting to see Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Brent Barry, Michael Finley, Manu Ginobili, Robert Horry, and Nick Van Exel. What a great team! The Spurs defeated the Hornets 96-81.
After the game we came back home, laughing all the way. Tomorrow, we turn our attention to our book idea. Tune in tomorrow for more updates on the adventures in San Antonio.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Day Two
Sleep, sleep, and more sleep...finally, I was able to sleep. I love spring break. Today has been a good one. Jason and I had quesadillas for lunch. For dinner, we went to the Westin downtown and met his sister, Elizabeth, for a fabulous meal together right on the San Antonio River. Even the conversations were great, most of them being about relationships, and it's encouraging to hear that there are actually ladies out there looking for good men. It was an absolutely gorgeous evening. The temperature was just right. Of course, Jason asked me throughout the night about moving down here.
San Antonio is a beautiful city! Jason and I did the whole River Walk thing and took the boat tour. I learned some interesting things regarding the city and its history. Oh, downtown actually has trees. I think it's a city ordinance for businesses to have a certain amount of trees. Downtown San Antonio, with its trees and river, is absolutely beautiful...quite a sight for sore eyes. I mean, what does Fort Worth have? The Water Gardens...yeah, that was a big disappointment when I went to see that.
I also have eyes for the romantic. I am a romantic. Jason and I walked around discussing various locations that would make great dates. For example, the mall area on the river would make a great date. You have the river, the lights, and the music. Since there's music, you could do some dancing on the bridge. On top of those things, there are the stores at the mall to look around in, and lots of great restaraunts to eat at.
After getting back from downtown, we watched a movie about doing away with evil and injustice. It was a good one. Now, it's time for bed because Jason and I have another exciting and fun-filled day planned for tomorrow. In the morning, we're going to see the Alamo and some stuff downtown. I hope to do some photography while I'm there. Tomorrow night, it's off to see the San Antonio Spurs take on the New Orleans Hornets. Jason's other sister, Kimberly, was able to get us free tickets to the game. Sweet! It's always good to get to see one of your favorite sports teams play at home. Last year, I was able to see the Yankees play in Yankee Stadium, and now the Spurs at home!
This was also a cool day because I learned that my cousin William and his wife, Amy, brought a baby boy into the world. I send them my congratulations and my prayers. I can't wait to see him!
San Antonio is a beautiful city! Jason and I did the whole River Walk thing and took the boat tour. I learned some interesting things regarding the city and its history. Oh, downtown actually has trees. I think it's a city ordinance for businesses to have a certain amount of trees. Downtown San Antonio, with its trees and river, is absolutely beautiful...quite a sight for sore eyes. I mean, what does Fort Worth have? The Water Gardens...yeah, that was a big disappointment when I went to see that.
I also have eyes for the romantic. I am a romantic. Jason and I walked around discussing various locations that would make great dates. For example, the mall area on the river would make a great date. You have the river, the lights, and the music. Since there's music, you could do some dancing on the bridge. On top of those things, there are the stores at the mall to look around in, and lots of great restaraunts to eat at.
After getting back from downtown, we watched a movie about doing away with evil and injustice. It was a good one. Now, it's time for bed because Jason and I have another exciting and fun-filled day planned for tomorrow. In the morning, we're going to see the Alamo and some stuff downtown. I hope to do some photography while I'm there. Tomorrow night, it's off to see the San Antonio Spurs take on the New Orleans Hornets. Jason's other sister, Kimberly, was able to get us free tickets to the game. Sweet! It's always good to get to see one of your favorite sports teams play at home. Last year, I was able to see the Yankees play in Yankee Stadium, and now the Spurs at home!
This was also a cool day because I learned that my cousin William and his wife, Amy, brought a baby boy into the world. I send them my congratulations and my prayers. I can't wait to see him!
Monday, March 13, 2006
Adventures in San Antonio: Day One
Well, I'm on spring break; and let me tell you, I'm so happy. For one thing, I'm away from classes, work, and Fort Worth for a whole week! Second, I'm able to spend the whole week in San Antonio with one of my best and most loyal friends in all of the world, Jason Weaver.
It's been great so far! Jason has asked me at least a dozen times already about when I'm going to move to San Antonio. Who am I to say that I won't one day? Only the Lord knows that, but it would be fun. Come to think of it, San Antonio does have an extention center for Southwestern...
The drive down from Fort Worth only took about four hours, and that was with heavy traffic, especially in Austin. By the way, I've discovered that Texas needs something else to interest its people other than a car pulled over by a cop. Traffic came to a hault. It was stop and go for a long ways. I was thinking, something really bad has happened ahead of me. No! It was just some guy stopped for speeding or something (I really don't know), and I guess the others drivers had nothing better to do than stop and look intently.
After arriving at Jason's, we played pool, played Halo (I'm terrible now...I miss the Halo nights at Northside), went to Chili's for supper, and hung out with his friend Adam (an awesome guy by the way...very knowledgeable) until about midnight. Jason and I caught up with one another, laughed a lot, and he even filled me in on some information that I didn't know (man, that's just psycho). We're home now...I'm looking forward to a wonderful week with my friend.
It's been great so far! Jason has asked me at least a dozen times already about when I'm going to move to San Antonio. Who am I to say that I won't one day? Only the Lord knows that, but it would be fun. Come to think of it, San Antonio does have an extention center for Southwestern...
The drive down from Fort Worth only took about four hours, and that was with heavy traffic, especially in Austin. By the way, I've discovered that Texas needs something else to interest its people other than a car pulled over by a cop. Traffic came to a hault. It was stop and go for a long ways. I was thinking, something really bad has happened ahead of me. No! It was just some guy stopped for speeding or something (I really don't know), and I guess the others drivers had nothing better to do than stop and look intently.
After arriving at Jason's, we played pool, played Halo (I'm terrible now...I miss the Halo nights at Northside), went to Chili's for supper, and hung out with his friend Adam (an awesome guy by the way...very knowledgeable) until about midnight. Jason and I caught up with one another, laughed a lot, and he even filled me in on some information that I didn't know (man, that's just psycho). We're home now...I'm looking forward to a wonderful week with my friend.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
"The Bridge"
My friend, Mike Nelson, wrote this poem about the atonement of Jesus Christ. I'd like to share it with you.
There is a place I want to go,
but an obstacle I have encountered.
It is my sins that are blocking my path,
and preventing me from going any farther.
I can see the light of heaven,
but how can I possibly span this great divide?
So I wandered hopelessly through the darkness,
looking for anything that might provide,
a means of somehow traversing my sins,
so that I could get to the other side.
I tried everything that man could think of,
but these all failed to get me across.
Then I came upon a narrow bridge,
its shape in the form of a cross.
At its entrance hung a very large sign,
addressed simply to "The Lost."
So I approached the sign with caution,
and slowly began to read.
It said, "Although His holiness demands judgment,
His love desires to set all sinners free.
So be careful not to slip or stumble,
on the blood that you will see.
For it is the price that had to be paid,
to make atonement for you and me.
Forgiveness awaits all those who enter,
but to enter you must first believe,
in the one who shed this righteous blood,
so that divine satisfaction could be achieved.
For this bridge stands as the Holy testament,
to what God has so graciously done.
For He has reconciled a world of sin,
through the sacrifice of His Son.
His holiness and love collided,
at this bridge called Calvary.
There is no greater act of kindness,
that mankind will ever see.
So please step forward and put your faith,
in the one who gives us the victory.
For the blood that purchased this bridge to heaven,
came from Jesus of Galilee.“
So I opened my heart and invited Him in,
and off across the bridge I went,
with the blood He shed cleansing my sin,
and to me His righteousness being sent.
Now I serve as His disciple,
helping others to know what it meant,
for God the Son to come to earth,
in the form of a humble servant.
His sinless body they did slay,
but not without His consent,
and not because He deserved to suffer,
for innocence need not to repent.
But in our place He willingly died,
so the Father is now content,
to forgive all those who believe,
of the sins that they commit.
© 2006 Michael T. Nelson
There is a place I want to go,
but an obstacle I have encountered.
It is my sins that are blocking my path,
and preventing me from going any farther.
I can see the light of heaven,
but how can I possibly span this great divide?
So I wandered hopelessly through the darkness,
looking for anything that might provide,
a means of somehow traversing my sins,
so that I could get to the other side.
I tried everything that man could think of,
but these all failed to get me across.
Then I came upon a narrow bridge,
its shape in the form of a cross.
At its entrance hung a very large sign,
addressed simply to "The Lost."
So I approached the sign with caution,
and slowly began to read.
It said, "Although His holiness demands judgment,
His love desires to set all sinners free.
So be careful not to slip or stumble,
on the blood that you will see.
For it is the price that had to be paid,
to make atonement for you and me.
Forgiveness awaits all those who enter,
but to enter you must first believe,
in the one who shed this righteous blood,
so that divine satisfaction could be achieved.
For this bridge stands as the Holy testament,
to what God has so graciously done.
For He has reconciled a world of sin,
through the sacrifice of His Son.
His holiness and love collided,
at this bridge called Calvary.
There is no greater act of kindness,
that mankind will ever see.
So please step forward and put your faith,
in the one who gives us the victory.
For the blood that purchased this bridge to heaven,
came from Jesus of Galilee.“
So I opened my heart and invited Him in,
and off across the bridge I went,
with the blood He shed cleansing my sin,
and to me His righteousness being sent.
Now I serve as His disciple,
helping others to know what it meant,
for God the Son to come to earth,
in the form of a humble servant.
His sinless body they did slay,
but not without His consent,
and not because He deserved to suffer,
for innocence need not to repent.
But in our place He willingly died,
so the Father is now content,
to forgive all those who believe,
of the sins that they commit.
© 2006 Michael T. Nelson
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Wisdom from the Fool
I recently read The Praise of Folly by Desiderius Erasmus, and I have to say that I found a lot of it to be quite humorous. Not much has changed from his day to ours. Anyway, as I was reading through, I came across a line and said to myself, "That would be great for the quote page." Well, I started seeing a lot of those great lines, so I decided to put compile them together, instead of putting a lot of quotes by Erasmus on the quote page. Erasmus wrote this book from the perspective of folly or foolishness personified, so keep that in mind as you read these.
"The flatterer adorns a crow with other birds' feathers, washes the Ethiopian white, and, in sum, makes an elephant out of a gnat."
"To know nothing affords the happiest life." -Sophocles
"What is it in children, that we should kiss them the way we do, and cuddle them, and fondle them--so that even an enemy would give aid to one of that age--except this enchantment of folly, which prudent nature carefully bestows on the newly born; so that by this pleasure, as a sort of prepayment, they win the favor of their nurses and parents and make these forget the pains of bringing them up."
"Men who really are among the most foolish have thought that by nights without sleep, and by their sweat, they could purchase fame--I know not what sort of fame, but certainly nothing could be more empty."
"Indeed, we distinguish a wise man from a fool by this, that reason governs the one, and passion the other."
"Men everywhere teem with so many forms of folly and daily devise so many new ones that a thousand Democrituses would not suffice for laughing at them--and there would be work, then, for one more Democritus to laugh at the laughers."
"Here is a fellow dying for love of a sweet young thing, and the less he is loved in return, the more helplessly he is in love."
"Let me turn to those who maintain among mortals an appearance of wisdom and, as the saying is, seek for the golden bough. Among these the grammarians hold first place."
"A prince is in such a position that if he lapses ever so slightly from honesty, straightway a dangerous and vital infection spreads to many people."
"Fortune loves those who are less than discreet, she loves the rasher sort, and the ones who are fond of that saying, 'The die is cast.' But wisdom makes men meticulous, which is why you commonly see that the traffic of wise men is with poverty, hunger, and smoke; you see them living neglected, inglorious, and disliked."
"If you don't have a thing, simulate it."
"To pretend to be a fool is sometimes the highest wisdom."
"It is sweet to play the fool in season." -Epicurus
"Be giddy and taken for a dolt, than be wise and fret." -Epicurus
"Everything is full of fools." -Cicero
"Human life is nothing but a sport of folly."
"Solomon, Chapter 15: 'A fool,' he says, 'delights in his folly,' that is, he clearly acknowledges that without folly nothing in life is sweet."
"No fools seem to act more foolishly than do the people whom zeal for Christian piety has got possession of; for they pour out their wealth, they overlook wrongs, allow themselves to be cheated, make no distinction between friends and enemies, shun pleasure, glut themselves with hunger, wakefulness, tears, toils, and reproaches; they disdain life and dearly prefer death; in short, they seem to have grown utterly numb to ordinary sensations, quite as if their souls lived elsewhere and not in their bodies."
"Plato defined philosophy as 'a study of death,' because it leads the mind away from visible and bodily things, and certainly death does the same."
"Even a foolish man will often speak a word in season." -Greek proverb
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Back on the Board
Since the weather has been absolutely fabulous, I decided to get out the skateboard (a gift from Ben Joiner) and get some exercise and fresh air. Although it's been a while since I skated, my feet felt natural being back on the board. My ollies aren't what they used to be though...gotta work on that. I pretty much skated all over my neighborhood in Fort Worth, but after a while my left foot started hurting because it was not used to being planted on a piece of wood on wheels. That will go away with a little more time on the board, though.
I'd also like to comment on Kristen's cousin's knowledge of skateboarding...I'm impressed.
I'd also like to comment on Kristen's cousin's knowledge of skateboarding...I'm impressed.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Memories
If you read this, if your eyes are passing over this right now, even if we don't speak often, please post a comment with a memory of you and me. It can be anything you want, either good or bad.
Monday, February 27, 2006
C3 Series Cup Goes to College...Again
For the third straight time, the Graduates and Careers group at Wedgwood has managed to lose to the College group in the C3 Cup Series. The very first competition was sand volleyball, which took place at TCU last year. The College put up quite a fight for a while, but lost miserably to the G & C, who took home the cup. However, the two following competitions, C3 Bowling and C3 Softball, went to the College group. Friday night, the G & C went down again to the College in kickball and dodgeball, allowing the College* to keep the cup yet again. The sad part of it all is that the G & C chose the games this time, and still lost. One College student is reported as saying, "Next time you guys pick a game, pick one you can win at." Well, that is their hope as they continue to chase down the C3 Cup.
*It should be noted that half of the College Team was made up of G & C members. Next time, College should show up!
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Mafia is Taboo
I have to give props to the wonderful people over at the Wonder House: Kristen, Dana, and Kristi. For the past two Sunday nights, a group has gotten together for food, fun, and fellowship. This past Friday night, an official game night was planned, a crowd showed up, and we had a blast. A few games were going on simultaneously for a while like Sequence and Nerts (Super Dave said that Nerts was "dumb" and Russell said, "What'n the world?"). Then we all played Mafia, and Egbert did an excellent job at keeping the story line going. 'Twas hilarious! I was killed in both rounds as a citizen. Dean was in the Mafia in the second round, along with Dusty. Dean killed off his two roommates, me and Josh; and Dusty killed off his roommate, Super Dave. Then came the wonderful world of Taboo! This game is so much fun. We weren't that good at it, but we laughed a lot. So if you ever get a chance to visit to Wonder House, go! As Russell would say, "That's right!"
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Tribute to Josh Slocum
Rodman Arrested at His Restaurant
By The Associated Press
January 7, 2002, 1:52 PM EST
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- Dennis Rodman has been arrested again, this time for allegedly obstructing police officers who were looking into a possible code violation at a restaurant he co-owns. Police took the 40-year-old former NBA star into custody early Saturday after he refused to let them enter Josh Slocum's on Pacific Coast Highway. Sgt. Neal Harvey said Rodman violated a Business and Profession Code, which bans alcoholic beverage service after 2 a.m. Harvey said Rodman, who has a seaside home nearby, stayed inside Josh Slocum's past that hour. But restaurant customers said they break no laws. "We were all hanging out, sobering up to come out (to Rodman's home)," said his friend, Joey Hinojoza, 27. "Dennis is serious about people sobering up before they drive. He's offered his limo or will pay for a cab." Officers saw cars in the restaurant parking lot at 2:40 a.m. and tried to enter. Rodman was at the door, but reportedly refused to open it and allow them inside. About 30 minutes later, patrons were let out and Rodman was arrested and taken to the city jail. He was booked at the Orange County jail in Santa Ana, and later released. His case will be submitted to the county prosecutor for review. The Los Angeles Lakers waived Rodman in April 1999 for tardiness and other problems. He wanted to play, but no team signed him. Since then, police have responded to his beachfront home more than 70 times because of complaints about loud parties. He's also been convicted of misdemeanor drunken driving and faced allegations of sexual harassment and assault.
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