Bill Envall is a funny man.
Lat night I felt horrible. A cold coming on, drained from a demanding day, all I could think of was the comfy, warm bed that waited for me...and I hurried to it...earlier than I usually do by far. You know how it goes. You rest some, you wake up. Your throat is sore, your sinus is stuffed, your head is pounding and you yearn for relief. You repeat the cycle over and over until you say, "ENOUGH"!
At that moment, you stay up because you just gave up on a night's much needed rest. I tried to read but even my eyes were sore. Flipped on the tube to be distracted and wound up gazing at CMT with Bill about the present the 'Here's Your Sign Award'. This award goes to the nutcase of the day, who was videoed being stupid...really stupid. There were some well deserving qualifiers by the time Bill made the presentation to a loser turned winner. For a moment, I was relieved by the comedy of it. It would be awhile before I would be able to sleep, but I did think about that phrase, "Here's Your Sign".
"Teacher, we want a miraculous sign from you." Matthew 12:38
What a strange contradiction at a crucial moment. Jesus was recognized as a 'Teacher'. He communicated the heart of God with such authority that thousands knew that He was no ordinary professional clergyman. When He spoke, God spoke, (duh...'Here's Your Sign'!). With a word of invitation, successful businessmen dropped their blackberries, cell phones, iPods and laptops, (not really, but they did leave their fishing boats and families!). Women would be raised from their illnesses; one immediately after her recovery began to make Jesus lunch!
One thing was common when Jesus was in town...people heard truth. People saw the light. People were rid of their infirmities. People were witness of the miraculous. People were transformed. Heart change happened wherever Jesus was. Troubling thing was...all of this was not enough.
"Teacher, we want a miraculous sign from you."
Have you ever made any similar demand? You might have thought Jesus would have agreed to this, but instead He said;
"A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a miraculous sign!" Matthew 12:39
What more did Jesus have to do to validate His Messiahship? What other 'sign' did He have to deliver that would be more convincing than the teaching or the track record that He already had established throughout the region...time after time? What an amazing request. What an alarming response.
Jesus would go on to say that the 'sign' of all 'signs' would be His victory over the death and the grave, but even then, others...to this very day, demand more evidence that He is who He says He is by demanding a 'sign'.
Read your Bible some. Let His teaching sink deep into your soul. Look around you some. Witness the lives that give Him glory for His grace and redeeming touch. Look ahead a bit. Anticipate your meeting Him when you too continue your life after this life.
There's your 'sign'!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Nose on Your Face
Can anything be more obvious than the nose on your face?
I think so.
During a speaking engagement many years ago, I was impressed by the impression I was having on my listeners. I found out when I sat down after my presentation that my zipper was 'down doobie doo down down'. The realization that the past 30 minutes had been more of a comedy routine than a mind bender became quite obvious to me when I returned to my seat on that platform. I had more than a broken fly. I had a bruised ego. Two very obvious realities!
Some people live in constant pursuit of attention. They want to be noticed. They want to be valued. They want to be talked to and heard. They want to be touched and hugged. They want to be backslapped and high fived. Everybody responds to 'attaboys'! They want to matter to somebody, somewhere, sometime. No one wants to be ignored. No one wants to be passed over. The choices we make, the fashions we choose, the places we frequent, the crowd we hang with, the speeches we make..and so much more scream out to the inattentive..."Here I am. Please notice! Choose me! Listen to me!"
I am not a social scientist, but I think that I have picked up on this human trait by: 1. Being human. 2. Watching and listening. I can see you shaking your head in the affirmative as you review this truth as obvious as the nose on your face.
Do you think God appreciates attention directed His way? Do you suppose that it matters to Him when He is slighted, ignored and passed over? Why would God even desire attention? What would be the point for Him to make us gawk with wonder? Would it be to get a kudo or two from the impressed, or to draw attention to something much deeper? When something stunning grabs our attention, we may then consider the awesomeness of God...but there are evidences of His kindness that daily beckon for your second and third look.
"He has not left Himself without a testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." Acts 14:17
In others words...pay attention people! Look around notice a few things! Let these realities stir you to appreciate Creator God who is taking the extra step...initiating a relationship with Him that is real, personal and practical. If you have doubts that God is real, just look at your table at dinner time. If you struggle to think that He is real, watch the rain as it falls and listen to the wind that whips through the trees during the storm that quenches the earth. You cannot escape the absolute truth that God has given hard evidence of His presence and involvement in YOUR life if you just pay attention a bit more through the routines and rhythms of your day.
The Apostle Paul makes this appeal to a throng of people who have been startled by God's grace toward a miserably crippled man gives strength to his legs, enlarges his heart, deepens his faith, saves his soul and grabs the attention of an entire city. WHY? Why the miracle? Several reasons...but chew on this one thing...they had ignored the obvious. Each day God was screaming for their attention, making obvious overtures of His love and provision...and they missed it. Because they missed the obvious, they were in grave danger of missing the essential. They needed...and longed for soul care. We all do.
Today, pay attention. Look around and you will see the obvious. Make a list of all the ways and means through which a Loving God has been faithful to you, sustained you, cared for you, amazed you, blessed you and revealed Himself to you. Don't blame Him for what others have done as an excuse for not paying Him the attention that He deserves.
Start with the nose on your face.
I think so.
During a speaking engagement many years ago, I was impressed by the impression I was having on my listeners. I found out when I sat down after my presentation that my zipper was 'down doobie doo down down'. The realization that the past 30 minutes had been more of a comedy routine than a mind bender became quite obvious to me when I returned to my seat on that platform. I had more than a broken fly. I had a bruised ego. Two very obvious realities!
Some people live in constant pursuit of attention. They want to be noticed. They want to be valued. They want to be talked to and heard. They want to be touched and hugged. They want to be backslapped and high fived. Everybody responds to 'attaboys'! They want to matter to somebody, somewhere, sometime. No one wants to be ignored. No one wants to be passed over. The choices we make, the fashions we choose, the places we frequent, the crowd we hang with, the speeches we make..and so much more scream out to the inattentive..."Here I am. Please notice! Choose me! Listen to me!"
I am not a social scientist, but I think that I have picked up on this human trait by: 1. Being human. 2. Watching and listening. I can see you shaking your head in the affirmative as you review this truth as obvious as the nose on your face.
Do you think God appreciates attention directed His way? Do you suppose that it matters to Him when He is slighted, ignored and passed over? Why would God even desire attention? What would be the point for Him to make us gawk with wonder? Would it be to get a kudo or two from the impressed, or to draw attention to something much deeper? When something stunning grabs our attention, we may then consider the awesomeness of God...but there are evidences of His kindness that daily beckon for your second and third look.
"He has not left Himself without a testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." Acts 14:17
In others words...pay attention people! Look around notice a few things! Let these realities stir you to appreciate Creator God who is taking the extra step...initiating a relationship with Him that is real, personal and practical. If you have doubts that God is real, just look at your table at dinner time. If you struggle to think that He is real, watch the rain as it falls and listen to the wind that whips through the trees during the storm that quenches the earth. You cannot escape the absolute truth that God has given hard evidence of His presence and involvement in YOUR life if you just pay attention a bit more through the routines and rhythms of your day.
The Apostle Paul makes this appeal to a throng of people who have been startled by God's grace toward a miserably crippled man gives strength to his legs, enlarges his heart, deepens his faith, saves his soul and grabs the attention of an entire city. WHY? Why the miracle? Several reasons...but chew on this one thing...they had ignored the obvious. Each day God was screaming for their attention, making obvious overtures of His love and provision...and they missed it. Because they missed the obvious, they were in grave danger of missing the essential. They needed...and longed for soul care. We all do.
Today, pay attention. Look around and you will see the obvious. Make a list of all the ways and means through which a Loving God has been faithful to you, sustained you, cared for you, amazed you, blessed you and revealed Himself to you. Don't blame Him for what others have done as an excuse for not paying Him the attention that He deserves.
Start with the nose on your face.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Playing Favorites
Did you know that there is such a thing as 'good hate'?
I learned that just yesterday from listening to local sports radio. The guy was right on in my book.
Think about it for a second. What's the deal with the flood of Yankee fans at the K when the Royals take on the New Yorkers? They come out in their pinstripe droves and scream like they are back in the Bronx. I personally think that anyone who shows up in true Royal Blue should get a 25 percent discount for dugout and luxury box seats while a 25 percent ticket surcharge should be added to anyone wearing that whacked NY emblem on their jersey or cap...for way upper deck seating only. OK, I hate the Yankees...but it is a 'good hate'.
I am not too fond of the Cincinnati football Bengals either. They stole the team colors of my boyhood heroes, the Cleveland Browns, located to the south in the same Buckeye state and went to the Super Bowl. Don't even get me started on the Baltimore Ravens! Those are the Browns! They left my boyhood hometown, (some call it the 'Mistake by the Lake'...jealous kinds of people obviously), moved toward the national capital...and just a couple years later...WON the Super Bowl. I 'hate' both of those teams...but...it is a 'good hate'.
Later as a young teenager, our family relocated to central Alabama. We were introduced to the state rivalry that is more intense than anything I have ever known. Auburn or Alabama? Choose your side and your friends according to "War Eagle" or "Roll Tide". My bride is an Auburn graduate, her father an Alabama fan. I had to really walk the line when I asked for her hand in marriage! It is a sharp divide that provides plenty of opportunity to express 'good hate'.
Do you practice 'good hate'? You have favorites, right? Your preferences mean something to you, correct? Chinese or Mexican tonight? The Triangle or the backstreets? A cruise to the Caribbean or a camping trip to Yosemite? Gangsta Rap or Opera? Obama or McCain? Are you or were you a 'favorite child'? Do you have one as a parent? Teams and preferences aside, do you play favorites with people? Are there some folk that you just plain like more than others? Are there others that you just don't give a flying flip for?
Do you think God has 'favorites'?
Well, He had the Chosen People thing going on for a while, and for some that is a real stumbling block when it ought not be at all. The truth is that He chose a certain people for a specific purpose that radiated far beyond themselves to express and demonstrate to all that God really plays no favorites.
"I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all." Acts 10:34-36
When Peter made this statement, he had faced the reality that he had misinterpreted the heart of God because of personal prejudice. He had been taught that grace had limits and that the goodness of God had borders. He may even have believed that some hate was indeed 'good'. In a dramatic, personal way, the God of the Bible spoke deeply to the apostle while he was praying one afternoon. He finally understood that it was God's plan to reveal His heart to all people, of all nationalities, political views, belief systems and religious traditions through the completed redemptive work of His Son, the Lord Jesus...the Christ. With that revelation, Peter accepted the invitation of a gentile Roman military commander (quite a few 'good hate' qualifiers) to share the redemptive message of God's heart (and actions) toward all.
'God does not show favoritism.'
Think about that for a few moments. Let that sink in some. Consider that fact when you have been duped into believing that you are beyond His reach because of your shame or hardness of heart. Before you exercise or express any type of 'justifiable' judgment or prejudice toward a classmate, a work team member, an employee, neighbor, family member or Yankee fan, remember that God does not wear pinstripes or royal blue. To be honest about it, there will come a time when all distinctions will be laid to rest and all who know Him will be in perfect union with one another...dressed in the redemptive gear He has provided by grace;
"From every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb, they were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out with a loud voice; 'Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." Revelation 7:9-10
Imagine that! All together...and happy about it! Only Jesus could do that. Maybe now, today, you can throw down your prejudices, distinctives, preferences and 'favorites' and invite others to experience His all inclusive grace through your words, actions, conversations and Christ-like lifestyle. That is a barrier buster for sure! That is a taste of what grace can do and the glory that grace promises to all who know Him and who will be robed in white one day soon!
I learned that just yesterday from listening to local sports radio. The guy was right on in my book.
Think about it for a second. What's the deal with the flood of Yankee fans at the K when the Royals take on the New Yorkers? They come out in their pinstripe droves and scream like they are back in the Bronx. I personally think that anyone who shows up in true Royal Blue should get a 25 percent discount for dugout and luxury box seats while a 25 percent ticket surcharge should be added to anyone wearing that whacked NY emblem on their jersey or cap...for way upper deck seating only. OK, I hate the Yankees...but it is a 'good hate'.
I am not too fond of the Cincinnati football Bengals either. They stole the team colors of my boyhood heroes, the Cleveland Browns, located to the south in the same Buckeye state and went to the Super Bowl. Don't even get me started on the Baltimore Ravens! Those are the Browns! They left my boyhood hometown, (some call it the 'Mistake by the Lake'...jealous kinds of people obviously), moved toward the national capital...and just a couple years later...WON the Super Bowl. I 'hate' both of those teams...but...it is a 'good hate'.
Later as a young teenager, our family relocated to central Alabama. We were introduced to the state rivalry that is more intense than anything I have ever known. Auburn or Alabama? Choose your side and your friends according to "War Eagle" or "Roll Tide". My bride is an Auburn graduate, her father an Alabama fan. I had to really walk the line when I asked for her hand in marriage! It is a sharp divide that provides plenty of opportunity to express 'good hate'.
Do you practice 'good hate'? You have favorites, right? Your preferences mean something to you, correct? Chinese or Mexican tonight? The Triangle or the backstreets? A cruise to the Caribbean or a camping trip to Yosemite? Gangsta Rap or Opera? Obama or McCain? Are you or were you a 'favorite child'? Do you have one as a parent? Teams and preferences aside, do you play favorites with people? Are there some folk that you just plain like more than others? Are there others that you just don't give a flying flip for?
Do you think God has 'favorites'?
Well, He had the Chosen People thing going on for a while, and for some that is a real stumbling block when it ought not be at all. The truth is that He chose a certain people for a specific purpose that radiated far beyond themselves to express and demonstrate to all that God really plays no favorites.
"I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all." Acts 10:34-36
When Peter made this statement, he had faced the reality that he had misinterpreted the heart of God because of personal prejudice. He had been taught that grace had limits and that the goodness of God had borders. He may even have believed that some hate was indeed 'good'. In a dramatic, personal way, the God of the Bible spoke deeply to the apostle while he was praying one afternoon. He finally understood that it was God's plan to reveal His heart to all people, of all nationalities, political views, belief systems and religious traditions through the completed redemptive work of His Son, the Lord Jesus...the Christ. With that revelation, Peter accepted the invitation of a gentile Roman military commander (quite a few 'good hate' qualifiers) to share the redemptive message of God's heart (and actions) toward all.
'God does not show favoritism.'
Think about that for a few moments. Let that sink in some. Consider that fact when you have been duped into believing that you are beyond His reach because of your shame or hardness of heart. Before you exercise or express any type of 'justifiable' judgment or prejudice toward a classmate, a work team member, an employee, neighbor, family member or Yankee fan, remember that God does not wear pinstripes or royal blue. To be honest about it, there will come a time when all distinctions will be laid to rest and all who know Him will be in perfect union with one another...dressed in the redemptive gear He has provided by grace;
"From every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb, they were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out with a loud voice; 'Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." Revelation 7:9-10
Imagine that! All together...and happy about it! Only Jesus could do that. Maybe now, today, you can throw down your prejudices, distinctives, preferences and 'favorites' and invite others to experience His all inclusive grace through your words, actions, conversations and Christ-like lifestyle. That is a barrier buster for sure! That is a taste of what grace can do and the glory that grace promises to all who know Him and who will be robed in white one day soon!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Nesting
Gabe went gadzooks the other day.
Our 8 year old, 90 plus pound boxer is a member of the Weber Nation. Our son wanted a chick magnet while attending college, and Gabe was the result. Awesome dog. Barrel chested and a fierce bark moves folk away from the door in a hurry...back down the driveway as well for that matter! When our son decided to join the Marine Corps after 9-11, Gabe become a permanent fixture at the dinner table, (he is a beggar, too!).
A few days ago he leaped off the back deck in hot pursuit to our back fence, barking wildly. Not knowing what had him so lathered, I followed him out to discover that a squirrel was scrambling atop our fence, leaping back to a tree, and then going airborne to our oak about 10 feet or more from the branch he launched himself from opposite the fence. Quite impressive! From there, Mr. Squirrel hustled to the top of our almost leafless tree...to the very top. The pinnacle of our tree had become the home of our ready for winter moocher. I had wondered what in the world was that huge clump at the summit of our tree...now I knew...a squirrel nest had been constructed and a family of furry tails now claimed squatter's rights! Good choice...they have a room with a view!
We have more permanent guests that call our address their home. The rabbits underneath the deck cause a commotion daily for Gabe. EVERY day is rabbit hunting season in the backyard. After taunting and darting around, they wear our old Gabe out and head under the deck for a carrot and a nap. They are not so lucky with our other pooch...that little white tornado has out legged them more than once...another story for another time...
The apartment that the squirrels have built has caught my attention. It is huge. It is secluded. It is safe. Our rabbit tenets also have found a place of security and supposed safety under our deck. The mice and the moles have not been so lucky!
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:26
You may be struggling today with safety issues. You may have very real security concerns. Money is tight. The Market is in a free fall. Your equity is shrinking. Your savings are necessary. Your job may be on the line as the new fiscal year requires downsizing for your company. In just the past few weeks, unemployment is becoming real...very real. Ask the lifers at the Ford Plant, or the young executives at Pepsico, or those making your airline reservations. These are as tough of times as our nation has faced since the 70's and some say even as far back as the Great Depression.
That is when you have to take a serious look at the squirrel nest atop your tree. Consider the rabbits who have found refuge and are carefree. Maybe the Canadian geese that are migrating south is yet another reminder of the great grace of Almighty God that He has provided to give you the assurance that His eye is upon you and your needs. He pledges to you His watchcare and attention. He guarantees that since birds matter to Him, you especially do! The lesson is simple, obvious and current; "I know you. I love you. I am paying attention to you."
Here are better questions that deserves honest answers; Do you know Him? Do you love Him? Are you paying attention to Him?
Needs have a way of reminding us that we are more dependent than independent. That reality can bruise your ego and put a limp in your swagger, but it is a fact. That is why we 'worry'. We know that we just can't control everything. That is why we need to have needs. They force us to consider the squirrel nests...and Who feeds the furry ones in the cold of winter.
"Your Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
There are better and more eternal realities to experience that transcend your mortgage, your IRA, and your reduced fat Christmas List. Turn your attention to the squirrel nest...and then look a bit higher to Him who knows your needs and guarantees you His lasting security.
Our 8 year old, 90 plus pound boxer is a member of the Weber Nation. Our son wanted a chick magnet while attending college, and Gabe was the result. Awesome dog. Barrel chested and a fierce bark moves folk away from the door in a hurry...back down the driveway as well for that matter! When our son decided to join the Marine Corps after 9-11, Gabe become a permanent fixture at the dinner table, (he is a beggar, too!).
A few days ago he leaped off the back deck in hot pursuit to our back fence, barking wildly. Not knowing what had him so lathered, I followed him out to discover that a squirrel was scrambling atop our fence, leaping back to a tree, and then going airborne to our oak about 10 feet or more from the branch he launched himself from opposite the fence. Quite impressive! From there, Mr. Squirrel hustled to the top of our almost leafless tree...to the very top. The pinnacle of our tree had become the home of our ready for winter moocher. I had wondered what in the world was that huge clump at the summit of our tree...now I knew...a squirrel nest had been constructed and a family of furry tails now claimed squatter's rights! Good choice...they have a room with a view!
We have more permanent guests that call our address their home. The rabbits underneath the deck cause a commotion daily for Gabe. EVERY day is rabbit hunting season in the backyard. After taunting and darting around, they wear our old Gabe out and head under the deck for a carrot and a nap. They are not so lucky with our other pooch...that little white tornado has out legged them more than once...another story for another time...
The apartment that the squirrels have built has caught my attention. It is huge. It is secluded. It is safe. Our rabbit tenets also have found a place of security and supposed safety under our deck. The mice and the moles have not been so lucky!
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:26
You may be struggling today with safety issues. You may have very real security concerns. Money is tight. The Market is in a free fall. Your equity is shrinking. Your savings are necessary. Your job may be on the line as the new fiscal year requires downsizing for your company. In just the past few weeks, unemployment is becoming real...very real. Ask the lifers at the Ford Plant, or the young executives at Pepsico, or those making your airline reservations. These are as tough of times as our nation has faced since the 70's and some say even as far back as the Great Depression.
That is when you have to take a serious look at the squirrel nest atop your tree. Consider the rabbits who have found refuge and are carefree. Maybe the Canadian geese that are migrating south is yet another reminder of the great grace of Almighty God that He has provided to give you the assurance that His eye is upon you and your needs. He pledges to you His watchcare and attention. He guarantees that since birds matter to Him, you especially do! The lesson is simple, obvious and current; "I know you. I love you. I am paying attention to you."
Here are better questions that deserves honest answers; Do you know Him? Do you love Him? Are you paying attention to Him?
Needs have a way of reminding us that we are more dependent than independent. That reality can bruise your ego and put a limp in your swagger, but it is a fact. That is why we 'worry'. We know that we just can't control everything. That is why we need to have needs. They force us to consider the squirrel nests...and Who feeds the furry ones in the cold of winter.
"Your Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
There are better and more eternal realities to experience that transcend your mortgage, your IRA, and your reduced fat Christmas List. Turn your attention to the squirrel nest...and then look a bit higher to Him who knows your needs and guarantees you His lasting security.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Name Dropper
"Tell them you know me."
Wanting to have a Thanksgiving Dinner with a group of friends that we meet with every week, my bride came up with a great idea. "Go to Hy Vee and order a Thanksgiving Dinner for all of us. We can split the cost and that keeps it simple and easy." Why am I so blind to the obvious? A super idea that never occurred to me!
When I walked in the store, something did occur to me...I knew someone who had a direct line to the caterer! Thankfully, I brought my cell phone, made a quick call to my friend and was told the exact person to go to so that I could place my order to a green bean.
"Tell them that you know me."
Once I mentioned the name of our mutual friend, a page was made, the caterer was on the spot in a flash, and my order was complete within minutes. Amazing what name dropping can do! That is why I am now planning to show up at Arrowhead for the next Chief's game, walk straight to the Will Call window and tell the ticket agent that Len Dawson said to let me in and to seat me on the 50 yard line, pronto. When spring gets here, I plan to do the same at the newly renovated 'K'. I will say that George Brett sent me with the instruction that I am to be escorted to one of the new luxury sky boxes to enjoy Opening Day with all the other Royal's fans that could do no better than the Cheap Seats. Think that will work?
Maybe...only if I REALLY KNEW Len or George! Right now, I have a better chance of getting a break on a Turkey Dinner with the caterer than I do of getting caught on camera at either of the ball parks at the Truman Sports Complex!
I heard about a middle school student conducting a social experiment on her campus during the Presidential campaign. One day she wore "McCain Girl" hand painted in red on her shirt. Waiting and listening, making no response to comments by friends, classmates and teachers, she chronicled what was being said to her. The next day, she wore another hand painted T, this time in blue, with "Obama Girl" inscribed. Waiting for comment with pen in hand, she carefully recorded the responses of friends, classmates and teachers. Suffice to say that she learned some pretty telling lessons on her public school campus with the mentioning of a name!
"In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Acts 3:6
In back to back chapters in the Book of Acts (3-4), the name of Jesus is referred about 9 times in total. In reference to His name, a crippled man is fully healed, literally thousands are drawn into the knowledge of God, and some are even jealous to the point of blood red anger. The name of Jesus is so uniquely powerful and authoritative that something even more amazing than this physical miracle captivates the city...
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12
The fact is that ordinary men do not have the ability or the power to make damaged people well. The truth is that to be delivered from sin, setbacks and stumbling blocks, a Deliverer is needed. Human ability and ingenuity, no matter how impressive, convincing and compelling falls short of breaking through and delivering us from our deepest needs. An Intercessor is necessary. An Advocate is essential. A Rescuer is is the only hope when you are dropped into (or fall into) the pits of life.
Although Peter and John were blue collar types, supposedly uneducated, ordinary and rough around the edges, there was no denying that they had the mojo going on. What had happened was so undeniable that even those of high brow bloodlines admitted the obvious; these guys had hung out with Jesus, (see Acts 4:13). His power was all over them. His authority had been conferred upon them. His presence and wisdom had saturated them. His name was being dropped by them...constantly and with life changing results.
"Tell them you know me."
That's really about all these apostles did. They spoke what they heard. They did as they were told. No matter if they were at the marketplace or the interrogation room, they attributed all the supernatural life change that brought thousands to wholeness to Jesus...and spoke His name in boldness as well as in reverence.
His name is where the deliverance is. His name is where the victory is. His name is where the power is. His name is where salvation is. And I bet you may even drop His name when you are talking to God one on one. If you came to God in the merit of your own name...well...you would have a better chance to getting into Arrowhead or the K dropping the names Len and George! Approach God today through the Name of Jesus, your Salvation Giver and daily Sustainer. Trust in His Name. Speak His name as a reminder of His great grace. Call upon His name. Stand up for His name.
Be a name dropper today. You might even get a good deal on a Turkey Dinner.
Wanting to have a Thanksgiving Dinner with a group of friends that we meet with every week, my bride came up with a great idea. "Go to Hy Vee and order a Thanksgiving Dinner for all of us. We can split the cost and that keeps it simple and easy." Why am I so blind to the obvious? A super idea that never occurred to me!
When I walked in the store, something did occur to me...I knew someone who had a direct line to the caterer! Thankfully, I brought my cell phone, made a quick call to my friend and was told the exact person to go to so that I could place my order to a green bean.
"Tell them that you know me."
Once I mentioned the name of our mutual friend, a page was made, the caterer was on the spot in a flash, and my order was complete within minutes. Amazing what name dropping can do! That is why I am now planning to show up at Arrowhead for the next Chief's game, walk straight to the Will Call window and tell the ticket agent that Len Dawson said to let me in and to seat me on the 50 yard line, pronto. When spring gets here, I plan to do the same at the newly renovated 'K'. I will say that George Brett sent me with the instruction that I am to be escorted to one of the new luxury sky boxes to enjoy Opening Day with all the other Royal's fans that could do no better than the Cheap Seats. Think that will work?
Maybe...only if I REALLY KNEW Len or George! Right now, I have a better chance of getting a break on a Turkey Dinner with the caterer than I do of getting caught on camera at either of the ball parks at the Truman Sports Complex!
I heard about a middle school student conducting a social experiment on her campus during the Presidential campaign. One day she wore "McCain Girl" hand painted in red on her shirt. Waiting and listening, making no response to comments by friends, classmates and teachers, she chronicled what was being said to her. The next day, she wore another hand painted T, this time in blue, with "Obama Girl" inscribed. Waiting for comment with pen in hand, she carefully recorded the responses of friends, classmates and teachers. Suffice to say that she learned some pretty telling lessons on her public school campus with the mentioning of a name!
"In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Acts 3:6
In back to back chapters in the Book of Acts (3-4), the name of Jesus is referred about 9 times in total. In reference to His name, a crippled man is fully healed, literally thousands are drawn into the knowledge of God, and some are even jealous to the point of blood red anger. The name of Jesus is so uniquely powerful and authoritative that something even more amazing than this physical miracle captivates the city...
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12
The fact is that ordinary men do not have the ability or the power to make damaged people well. The truth is that to be delivered from sin, setbacks and stumbling blocks, a Deliverer is needed. Human ability and ingenuity, no matter how impressive, convincing and compelling falls short of breaking through and delivering us from our deepest needs. An Intercessor is necessary. An Advocate is essential. A Rescuer is is the only hope when you are dropped into (or fall into) the pits of life.
Although Peter and John were blue collar types, supposedly uneducated, ordinary and rough around the edges, there was no denying that they had the mojo going on. What had happened was so undeniable that even those of high brow bloodlines admitted the obvious; these guys had hung out with Jesus, (see Acts 4:13). His power was all over them. His authority had been conferred upon them. His presence and wisdom had saturated them. His name was being dropped by them...constantly and with life changing results.
"Tell them you know me."
That's really about all these apostles did. They spoke what they heard. They did as they were told. No matter if they were at the marketplace or the interrogation room, they attributed all the supernatural life change that brought thousands to wholeness to Jesus...and spoke His name in boldness as well as in reverence.
His name is where the deliverance is. His name is where the victory is. His name is where the power is. His name is where salvation is. And I bet you may even drop His name when you are talking to God one on one. If you came to God in the merit of your own name...well...you would have a better chance to getting into Arrowhead or the K dropping the names Len and George! Approach God today through the Name of Jesus, your Salvation Giver and daily Sustainer. Trust in His Name. Speak His name as a reminder of His great grace. Call upon His name. Stand up for His name.
Be a name dropper today. You might even get a good deal on a Turkey Dinner.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Who's Your Daddy?
I used to play fantasy football.
I was good at it, too. I studied hard. I drafted well. I released and picked up players at the right time off the waiver wire. I usually won my division. I never missed the playoffs. AND, I could talk good smack on my weekly opponent and back it up by pounding them down week after week.
One exception. 'Who's Your Daddy' was the 'crem de la crem' in my Fantasy Football League.
The 'owner' of 'Who's Your Daddy' was a friend who prided himself as the King of Smack atop of the heap of trash talkers. He spared no one with his ruthless, cut to the quick, intimidating assaults, and could back up every word each Monday night when the final player and team stats were posted. 'Who's Your Daddy' left no prisoners as 'Da Man', with the rest of us being nothing more than 'wannabe's'.
By the way, who is your 'Daddy'? What do you know about him? What does it mean to you to be the next generation child of your human father? How important is that single relationship to you? Do you yearn for more from your 'Daddy'? Was he aloof or engaged? Hidden or authentic? Sincere or manipulative? Was he invested in you? Did he teach you about life? Was he around for your games, and did he hold your head to his chest when you were heartbroken? Did he affirm you when you were weak, stand up for you when you were attacked, wait up for you when you were late, and teach you by an example that made his words credible?
"A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham." Matthew 1:1
What a confusing introduction to the New Testament! Whose 'son' was Jesus? 14 generations removed from King David and still his 'son'? Thousands of years since the days of Abraham and yet his 'son'? What is that all about? Why should you care? You may have even heard or read that Jesus was the 'Son of God'. How does that fit in the mix?
Literally, this verse can be read; "A record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah..." Those three words capsule the meaning of the entire New Testament, and fulfill the descriptions of His Sonship(s). 'Son of David' is a description of His fulfillment as King of all (including your heart) and 'Son of Abraham' is the covenant designation given only to Jesus as the fulfillment of the redemptive promises of God (including forgiveness for your sins). In one sweeping sentence, the God of the Bible reveals that His Son is the promised Deliverer, sent on mission to set free those mired in the reality of sin and desperate for timely and timeless hope.
When Joseph was confused, wounded and angry that the woman to whom he was engaged was expecting, the Heavenly Father stepped in with the message, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit, (Matthew 1:20). No human father would qualify Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy and history. The Heavenly Father would dispatch His only begotten to return to each of us the glory that had been stolen in the Garden of Paradise by sin. His coming trumped sin and triumphed over hopelessness.
From time to time, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" would be heard from the heavens affirming to Jesus His Father's loving approval and confirming to those who heard the reality of Who exactly they were being taught and healed by. Jesus never doubted whose Son he was. Here's the kicker...YOU can be adopted into His family! As you continue reading your New Testament for the upcoming 63 days, this incredible fact will become absolutely crystal clear. So, keep reading!
Today...read Matthew 1-2 and Acts 1-3. This is your first step to real and lasting transformation!
"Sons of Thunder" was the name of my fantasy football team. I named my team after the beach side bad boys of the New Testament as I thought they must have earned that name...or been born to a powerful man of strength and persuasion. They retired that name to take up the name, 'Apostle' instead. Rather than being known for their brute, they chose instead to hang out with the Messiah. Now that is transformation of the kind you and I still read about and are impacted by to this very moment.
That's not trash talking...that's just a fact!
I was good at it, too. I studied hard. I drafted well. I released and picked up players at the right time off the waiver wire. I usually won my division. I never missed the playoffs. AND, I could talk good smack on my weekly opponent and back it up by pounding them down week after week.
One exception. 'Who's Your Daddy' was the 'crem de la crem' in my Fantasy Football League.
The 'owner' of 'Who's Your Daddy' was a friend who prided himself as the King of Smack atop of the heap of trash talkers. He spared no one with his ruthless, cut to the quick, intimidating assaults, and could back up every word each Monday night when the final player and team stats were posted. 'Who's Your Daddy' left no prisoners as 'Da Man', with the rest of us being nothing more than 'wannabe's'.
By the way, who is your 'Daddy'? What do you know about him? What does it mean to you to be the next generation child of your human father? How important is that single relationship to you? Do you yearn for more from your 'Daddy'? Was he aloof or engaged? Hidden or authentic? Sincere or manipulative? Was he invested in you? Did he teach you about life? Was he around for your games, and did he hold your head to his chest when you were heartbroken? Did he affirm you when you were weak, stand up for you when you were attacked, wait up for you when you were late, and teach you by an example that made his words credible?
"A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham." Matthew 1:1
What a confusing introduction to the New Testament! Whose 'son' was Jesus? 14 generations removed from King David and still his 'son'? Thousands of years since the days of Abraham and yet his 'son'? What is that all about? Why should you care? You may have even heard or read that Jesus was the 'Son of God'. How does that fit in the mix?
Literally, this verse can be read; "A record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah..." Those three words capsule the meaning of the entire New Testament, and fulfill the descriptions of His Sonship(s). 'Son of David' is a description of His fulfillment as King of all (including your heart) and 'Son of Abraham' is the covenant designation given only to Jesus as the fulfillment of the redemptive promises of God (including forgiveness for your sins). In one sweeping sentence, the God of the Bible reveals that His Son is the promised Deliverer, sent on mission to set free those mired in the reality of sin and desperate for timely and timeless hope.
When Joseph was confused, wounded and angry that the woman to whom he was engaged was expecting, the Heavenly Father stepped in with the message, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit, (Matthew 1:20). No human father would qualify Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy and history. The Heavenly Father would dispatch His only begotten to return to each of us the glory that had been stolen in the Garden of Paradise by sin. His coming trumped sin and triumphed over hopelessness.
From time to time, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" would be heard from the heavens affirming to Jesus His Father's loving approval and confirming to those who heard the reality of Who exactly they were being taught and healed by. Jesus never doubted whose Son he was. Here's the kicker...YOU can be adopted into His family! As you continue reading your New Testament for the upcoming 63 days, this incredible fact will become absolutely crystal clear. So, keep reading!
Today...read Matthew 1-2 and Acts 1-3. This is your first step to real and lasting transformation!
"Sons of Thunder" was the name of my fantasy football team. I named my team after the beach side bad boys of the New Testament as I thought they must have earned that name...or been born to a powerful man of strength and persuasion. They retired that name to take up the name, 'Apostle' instead. Rather than being known for their brute, they chose instead to hang out with the Messiah. Now that is transformation of the kind you and I still read about and are impacted by to this very moment.
That's not trash talking...that's just a fact!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Windows and Grids
When you have to replace your windows you are forced to learn a lot about them.
By the time it was said and done, I had sat down with 8 sales reps, living through presentation after presentation. I learned about double pane, triple glass, argon and krypton gas, seals, grooves, frames, wraps, safety locks, tilt in sashes and a load more. When it came time to place the order, the wife and I had one final decision to make.
What 'grid' pattern did we want? 'Grids' are the annoying window trim that accents the beauty and the style of your window. To me...they are dust magnets that cannot be cleaned apart from exposing some serious personality flaws! Ever tried to clean those things? Nearly impossible. Grids are now built into the window so that you don't have to clean them. You just have to enjoy them! You can choose traditional grids, prarie style, or even go 'grid-less'. One Saturday morning, my lady and I went for a drive and saw more houses with grids than Santa has elves. We looked. We studied. We imagined. What grid style would we enjoy the most? A consuming subject that we bantered around for that day and the next few days!
We chose the prarie style grids for the north side of our home. The grid pattern runs on the outer edge of the window. Once they were installed, we could not help but to stare through windows and marvel. Where grids had once been was now unmarred glass. We could see our trees without any sight barriers...and the leaves turning color were quite stunning! Nothing hindered our looking across the street, down the drive and across the neighborhood. The grids were gone and we could see!
"One thing I do know. I was once blind but now I see!" John 9:25
A blind man, conditioned in darkness since birth, had not seen and could not see and in all likelihood, would not see. Physically, his condition was beyond pitiful. Being led by the hand each day to a place where the slightest chance of hope might occur, he had become accustomed to disappointment. He would never enjoy all five senses...until Jesus opened his eyes, gave him sight and opened his soul as well. This man is at the heart of one of the most stirring narratives in the whole of Scripture. He illustrates the condition of all of us apart from the redemptive touch of God.
"He is a light of revelation for the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." Luke 2:32
"In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it." John 1:4
Only God can remove the spiritual blinders to give us clear vision of Himself and ourselves. No one wants to stumble around in this life, and yet many settle for just that. Directionless, you move without intention or aim, hoping to 'see it' one day through an experience, an encounter, a job, a love, a family, a cudesac, a religion, yoga, tennis lessons, Jenny Craig or the finest imported wine. You look for meaning, purpose, having 'eternity set in your heart, foolishly bumping into others joined together on the bridge to nowhere, (well somewhere actually...where there is a darkness that will never be remedied). And then, God steps in, touches you deeply...and you can 'see'. Really 'see'.
"Lord, I believe." John 9:38
That very verse goes on to say that this formally blind man 'worshipped Him'. In other words, the 'grids' were gone! He could see His Redeemer clearly without any sight barriers whatsoever. Everything came into sharp focus and he would never have to stumble again because of the oppressing darkness of blindness.
Not only can we see out of windows better now that the grids are gone...others may be able to see into our house a lot better too! Wonder what God sees when He looks in from where I am looking out of?
By the time it was said and done, I had sat down with 8 sales reps, living through presentation after presentation. I learned about double pane, triple glass, argon and krypton gas, seals, grooves, frames, wraps, safety locks, tilt in sashes and a load more. When it came time to place the order, the wife and I had one final decision to make.
What 'grid' pattern did we want? 'Grids' are the annoying window trim that accents the beauty and the style of your window. To me...they are dust magnets that cannot be cleaned apart from exposing some serious personality flaws! Ever tried to clean those things? Nearly impossible. Grids are now built into the window so that you don't have to clean them. You just have to enjoy them! You can choose traditional grids, prarie style, or even go 'grid-less'. One Saturday morning, my lady and I went for a drive and saw more houses with grids than Santa has elves. We looked. We studied. We imagined. What grid style would we enjoy the most? A consuming subject that we bantered around for that day and the next few days!
We chose the prarie style grids for the north side of our home. The grid pattern runs on the outer edge of the window. Once they were installed, we could not help but to stare through windows and marvel. Where grids had once been was now unmarred glass. We could see our trees without any sight barriers...and the leaves turning color were quite stunning! Nothing hindered our looking across the street, down the drive and across the neighborhood. The grids were gone and we could see!
"One thing I do know. I was once blind but now I see!" John 9:25
A blind man, conditioned in darkness since birth, had not seen and could not see and in all likelihood, would not see. Physically, his condition was beyond pitiful. Being led by the hand each day to a place where the slightest chance of hope might occur, he had become accustomed to disappointment. He would never enjoy all five senses...until Jesus opened his eyes, gave him sight and opened his soul as well. This man is at the heart of one of the most stirring narratives in the whole of Scripture. He illustrates the condition of all of us apart from the redemptive touch of God.
"He is a light of revelation for the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." Luke 2:32
"In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it." John 1:4
Only God can remove the spiritual blinders to give us clear vision of Himself and ourselves. No one wants to stumble around in this life, and yet many settle for just that. Directionless, you move without intention or aim, hoping to 'see it' one day through an experience, an encounter, a job, a love, a family, a cudesac, a religion, yoga, tennis lessons, Jenny Craig or the finest imported wine. You look for meaning, purpose, having 'eternity set in your heart, foolishly bumping into others joined together on the bridge to nowhere, (well somewhere actually...where there is a darkness that will never be remedied). And then, God steps in, touches you deeply...and you can 'see'. Really 'see'.
"Lord, I believe." John 9:38
That very verse goes on to say that this formally blind man 'worshipped Him'. In other words, the 'grids' were gone! He could see His Redeemer clearly without any sight barriers whatsoever. Everything came into sharp focus and he would never have to stumble again because of the oppressing darkness of blindness.
Not only can we see out of windows better now that the grids are gone...others may be able to see into our house a lot better too! Wonder what God sees when He looks in from where I am looking out of?
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