12 Killed As Porch Collapses in Chicago
AP is reporting a tragic accident last night in Chicago. According to the report, "50 people, most of them in their early 20s, had crammed onto the apartment porch for a party in the city's affluent Lincoln Park neighborhood when the floor fell at about 12:30 a.m., police said. Seven men and five women, most of them apparently on the porches directly below, were sandwiched between the falling floors and killed." It is so often said that when we are young, we feel invulnerable, we don't think of death or contemplate our own mortality. Some would call these people young adults, some would call them kids, but whatever you call them, they were young and just starting out in life. How many of them had even begun to think about life's Big Picture? How many had started to wonder what it was all about, why they were here, why their lives were the way they were? How many of them were ready that summer night to meet their maker?
It is said that life is what happens when you are busy making other plans. But we all need to stop and slow down, find a quite place to think about the Big Questions, to pray, to talk to God and to really listen.
By the time we have reached early adulthood, most of us have been confronted with the harsh reality of life, with injustice, with loss, with pain in some form or other. Most of us reach a point where we want to scream out "it should not be this way!" With luck, we will find others who will guide us to the truth that God did not mean it to be this way, and He is standing by with an answer, ready to fix the problem at the heart of the human condition. His answer, the offer of salvation and eternal life, is available to all, extended personally by God when he became human. How many of us have thought, "if there is a God, why doesn't he just reveal himself, that would be so much simpler and straightforward." The Good News is that He did just that, He came down from heaven and took on human form and said, "here I am, here is what it is all about, here is how to fix things." God offers redemption (to redeem, to take back, to restore) to all people through faith in Jesus the Christ. Take Him at His word, accept His offer of salvation and eternal life. This day, your life may be required of you, are you ready to meet your maker?
-- by Joel
Sunday, June 29, 2003
Thursday, June 26, 2003
Monday, June 23, 2003
Monday, June 16, 2003
Sunday, June 15, 2003
A WALK WITH JESUS
If you could take a walk with Jesus
If He could spend some time with you,
Would you walk through fields of flowers,
Sprinkled with the morning dew?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
Would you walk beside the sea?
Or would you walk out in the forest,
So you could rest beneath the trees?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
What would you say to him?
Would you spend the time complaining,
About your family and your friends?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
Would you grumble about your job?
Would you choose your words with caution,
As you walked with the Son of God?
Now before you give your answer,
Give careful thought to what you'll say.
Though you may not have noticed,
Jesus walked with you today.
Author Unknown
If you could take a walk with Jesus
If He could spend some time with you,
Would you walk through fields of flowers,
Sprinkled with the morning dew?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
Would you walk beside the sea?
Or would you walk out in the forest,
So you could rest beneath the trees?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
What would you say to him?
Would you spend the time complaining,
About your family and your friends?
If you could take a walk with Jesus,
Would you grumble about your job?
Would you choose your words with caution,
As you walked with the Son of God?
Now before you give your answer,
Give careful thought to what you'll say.
Though you may not have noticed,
Jesus walked with you today.
Author Unknown
Friday, June 06, 2003
GOD'S WILL
The will of God will never take you,
Where the grace of God cannot keep you.
Where the arms of God cannot support you,
Where the riches of God cannot supply your needs,
Where the power of God cannot endow you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the spirit of God cannot work through you,
Where the wisdom of God cannot teach you,
Where the army of God cannot protect you,
Where the hands of God cannot mold you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the love of God cannot enfold you,
Where the mercies of God cannot sustain you,
Where the peace of God cannot calm your fears,
Where the authority of God cannot overrule for you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the comfort of God cannot dry your tears,
Where the Word of God cannot feed you,
Where the miracles of God cannot be done for you,
Where the omnipresence of God cannot find you.
--Author unknown.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the grace of God cannot keep you.
Where the arms of God cannot support you,
Where the riches of God cannot supply your needs,
Where the power of God cannot endow you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the spirit of God cannot work through you,
Where the wisdom of God cannot teach you,
Where the army of God cannot protect you,
Where the hands of God cannot mold you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the love of God cannot enfold you,
Where the mercies of God cannot sustain you,
Where the peace of God cannot calm your fears,
Where the authority of God cannot overrule for you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the comfort of God cannot dry your tears,
Where the Word of God cannot feed you,
Where the miracles of God cannot be done for you,
Where the omnipresence of God cannot find you.
--Author unknown.
Sunday, April 20, 2003
HERE WAS A MAN
Johnny Bond & Tex Ritter, 1963
Here was a man a man who was born in a small village
the son of a peasant woman
He grew up in another small village
Until he reached the age of thirty he worked as a carpenter
Then for three years he was a traveling minister
But he never traveled more than two hundred miles from where he was born
And where he did go he usually walked
He never held political office he never wrote a book never bought a home
Never had a family he never went to college and he never set foot inside a big city
Yes here was a man
Though he never did one on the things usually associated with greatness
He had no credentials but himself he had nothing to do with this world
Except through the devine purpose that brought him to this world
While he was still a young man the tide of popular opinion turned against him
Most of his friends ran away one of them denied him
One of them betrayed him and turned him over to his enemies
Then he went through the mockery of a trial
And was nailed to a cross between two thieves
And even while he was dying his executioners gambled
For the only piece of property that he had in this world
And that was his robe his purple robe
When he was dead he was taken down from the cross
And laid in a borrowed grave provided by compassionate friends
More than nineteen centuries have come and gone
And today he's a centerpiece of the human race
Our leader in the column to human destiny
I think I'm well within the mark when I say that all of the armies that ever marched
All of the navies that ever sailed the seas
All of the legislative bodies that ever sat and all of the kings that ever reigned
All of them put together have not affected the life of man on this earth
So powerfully as that one solitary life
Here was a man
Johnny Bond & Tex Ritter, 1963
Here was a man a man who was born in a small village
the son of a peasant woman
He grew up in another small village
Until he reached the age of thirty he worked as a carpenter
Then for three years he was a traveling minister
But he never traveled more than two hundred miles from where he was born
And where he did go he usually walked
He never held political office he never wrote a book never bought a home
Never had a family he never went to college and he never set foot inside a big city
Yes here was a man
Though he never did one on the things usually associated with greatness
He had no credentials but himself he had nothing to do with this world
Except through the devine purpose that brought him to this world
While he was still a young man the tide of popular opinion turned against him
Most of his friends ran away one of them denied him
One of them betrayed him and turned him over to his enemies
Then he went through the mockery of a trial
And was nailed to a cross between two thieves
And even while he was dying his executioners gambled
For the only piece of property that he had in this world
And that was his robe his purple robe
When he was dead he was taken down from the cross
And laid in a borrowed grave provided by compassionate friends
More than nineteen centuries have come and gone
And today he's a centerpiece of the human race
Our leader in the column to human destiny
I think I'm well within the mark when I say that all of the armies that ever marched
All of the navies that ever sailed the seas
All of the legislative bodies that ever sat and all of the kings that ever reigned
All of them put together have not affected the life of man on this earth
So powerfully as that one solitary life
Here was a man
Sunday, February 16, 2003
MY CHILD
by Amber
My Child,
You may not know me, but I know everything about you - Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up - Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways - Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered - Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image - Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being - Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring - Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived - Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation - Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book - Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live - Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made - Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb - Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born - Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me - John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love - 1 John4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you - 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your father - 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could - Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father - Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand - James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs - Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope - Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love - Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore - Psalm 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing - Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you - Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession - Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul - Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things - Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me - Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart - Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires - Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine - Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager - 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you - Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart - Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes - Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth - Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus - John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed - John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being - Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you - Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins - 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled - 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you...1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love...Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me...1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again...Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen...Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father...Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is...Will you be my child?...John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you...Luke 15:11-32
Love, Almighty God, Abba, Father
by Amber
My Child,
You may not know me, but I know everything about you - Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up - Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways - Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered - Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image - Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being - Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring - Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived - Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation - Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book - Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live - Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made - Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb - Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born - Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me - John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love - 1 John4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you - 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your father - 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could - Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father - Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand - James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs - Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope - Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love - Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore - Psalm 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing - Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you - Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession - Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul - Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things - Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me - Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart - Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires - Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine - Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager - 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you - Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart - Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes - Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth - Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus - John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed - John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being - Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you - Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins - 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled - 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you...1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love...Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me...1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again...Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen...Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father...Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is...Will you be my child?...John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you...Luke 15:11-32
Love, Almighty God, Abba, Father
Thursday, February 06, 2003
Christian One-Liners
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited-until you try to sit in their pews.
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but roaches come close.
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
People are funny, they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the church.
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on your front door forever.
If the church wants a better preacher, it only needs to pray for the one it has.
God Himself does not propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
Peace starts with a smile.
Outside of traffic, there is nothing that holds this country back as much as committees.
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
He who angers you, controls you.
Prayer: Don't give God instructions - just report for duty.
The Will of God will never take you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited-until you try to sit in their pews.
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers.
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but roaches come close.
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
People are funny, they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the church.
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on your front door forever.
If the church wants a better preacher, it only needs to pray for the one it has.
God Himself does not propose to judge a man until he is dead. So why should you?
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.
Peace starts with a smile.
Outside of traffic, there is nothing that holds this country back as much as committees.
Forbidden fruits create many jams.
God grades on the cross, not the curve.
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
He who angers you, controls you.
Prayer: Don't give God instructions - just report for duty.
The Will of God will never take you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
Sunday, January 05, 2003
When I say "I am a Christian"
by Carol Wimmer
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I am saved"
I'm whispering "I get lost!"
"That is why I chose this way."
When I say..."I am a Christian"
don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need someone to be my guide.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
and pray for strength to carry on.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
and cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
my flaws are too visible
but God believes I'm worth it.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartaches
which is why I seek His name.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority.
I only know I'm loved.
by Carol Wimmer
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I am saved"
I'm whispering "I get lost!"
"That is why I chose this way."
When I say..."I am a Christian"
don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need someone to be my guide.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
and pray for strength to carry on.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
and cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
my flaws are too visible
but God believes I'm worth it.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartaches
which is why I seek His name.
When I say..."I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority.
I only know I'm loved.
Tuesday, December 31, 2002
New Year's Resolutions for Christians
Read the entire Bible during 2003. Read it as a book rather than for Bible study. This way you will be able to know what is in the Bible and where.
Commit to leading one person to Christ this year (or more!)
Commit to go to church, Sunday School, and/or youth group every week.
Commit to inviting one or more school or work acquaintances to Church.
Ask your youth Pastor what job needs to be done in the Church and commit to doing that.
Adopt a Grandparent.
Adopt a person younger than you to mentor.
Commit to fasting one day a month.
Commit to starting a Bible Club or Bible Study group at work or School. If there is already one, commit to attending.
Source: Christian Web Site
http://www.ChristianWebSite.com
Read the entire Bible during 2003. Read it as a book rather than for Bible study. This way you will be able to know what is in the Bible and where.
Commit to leading one person to Christ this year (or more!)
Commit to go to church, Sunday School, and/or youth group every week.
Commit to inviting one or more school or work acquaintances to Church.
Ask your youth Pastor what job needs to be done in the Church and commit to doing that.
Adopt a Grandparent.
Adopt a person younger than you to mentor.
Commit to fasting one day a month.
Commit to starting a Bible Club or Bible Study group at work or School. If there is already one, commit to attending.
Source: Christian Web Site
http://www.ChristianWebSite.com
His Birth and Our New Birth
My Utmost for His Highest - December 25
'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us -Matthew 1:23
His Birth in History ". . . that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God (Luke 1:35). Jesus Christ was born into this world, not from it. He did not emerge out of history; He came into history from the outside. Jesus Christ is not the best human being the human race can boast of-He is a Being for whom the human race can take no credit at all. He is not man becoming God, but God Incarnate- God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and the holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Our Lord's birth was an advent-the appearance of God in human form.
His Birth in Me "My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you . . ." (Galatians 4:9). Just as our Lord came into human history from outside it, He must also come into me from outside. Have I allowed my personal human life to become a "Bethlehem" for the Son of God? I cannot enter the realm of the kingdom of God unless I am born again from above by a birth totally unlike physical birth. "You must be born again" (John 3:7). This is not a command, but a fact based on the authority of God. The evidence of the new birth is that I yield myself so completely to God that "Christ is formed" in me. And once "Christ is formed" in me, His nature immediately begins to work through me.
God Evident in the Flesh. This is what is made so profoundly possible for you and for me through the redemption of man by Jesus Christ.
My Utmost for His Highest - December 25
'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us -Matthew 1:23
His Birth in History ". . . that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God (Luke 1:35). Jesus Christ was born into this world, not from it. He did not emerge out of history; He came into history from the outside. Jesus Christ is not the best human being the human race can boast of-He is a Being for whom the human race can take no credit at all. He is not man becoming God, but God Incarnate- God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and the holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Our Lord's birth was an advent-the appearance of God in human form.
His Birth in Me "My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you . . ." (Galatians 4:9). Just as our Lord came into human history from outside it, He must also come into me from outside. Have I allowed my personal human life to become a "Bethlehem" for the Son of God? I cannot enter the realm of the kingdom of God unless I am born again from above by a birth totally unlike physical birth. "You must be born again" (John 3:7). This is not a command, but a fact based on the authority of God. The evidence of the new birth is that I yield myself so completely to God that "Christ is formed" in me. And once "Christ is formed" in me, His nature immediately begins to work through me.
God Evident in the Flesh. This is what is made so profoundly possible for you and for me through the redemption of man by Jesus Christ.
Saturday, December 21, 2002
INVITATION
You are cordially invited to attend A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible.
Time: Whenever you're ready. (Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)
Place: In your heart.... He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are... grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone... (He says you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway... it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!!
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P.: Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life."
Party being given by His Kids (that's us!!)! Hope to see you there! For those of you whom I will see at the party, share this with someone today!
You are cordially invited to attend A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible.
Time: Whenever you're ready. (Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)
Place: In your heart.... He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are... grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone... (He says you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway... it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!!
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P.: Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life."
Party being given by His Kids (that's us!!)! Hope to see you there! For those of you whom I will see at the party, share this with someone today!
Thursday, December 19, 2002
THE STORY OF THE GEESE
There was once a man who didn't believe in the incarnation of Christ or the spiritual meaning of Christmas, and was skeptical about God. He and his family lived in a farm community. His wife was a devout believer and diligently raised her children in her faith. He sometimes gave her a hard time about her faith and mocked her religious observance of Christmas. "It's all nonsense - why would God lower himself and become a human like us? It's such a ridiculous story!" he said.
One snowy day, she and the children left for church while he stayed home. After they had left, the winds grew stronger and the snow turned into a blinding snowstorm. He sat down to relax before the fire for the evening.
Then he heard a loud thump, something hitting against the window. And another thump. He looked outside but couldn't see. So he ventured outside to see. In the field near his house he saw, of all the strangest things, a flock of geese!
They were apparently flying to look for a warmer area down south, but had been caught in the snow storm. The storm had become too blinding and violent for the geese to fly or see their way. They were stranded on his farm, with no food or shelter, unable to do more than flutter their wings and fly in aimless circles.
He had compassion for them and wanted to help them. He thought to himself, "The barn would be a great place for them to stay! It's warm and safe; surely they could spend the night and wait out the storm."
So he opened the barn doors for them. He waited, watching them, hoping they would notice the open barn and go inside. But they didn't notice the barn or realize what it could mean for them. He moved closer toward them to get their attention, but they just moved away from him out of fear.
He went into the house and came back out with some bread, broke it up, and made a bread trail to the barn. They still didn't catch on.
Starting to get frustrated, he went over and tried to shoo them toward the barn. They panicked and scattered into every direction except toward the barn. Nothing he did could get them to go into the barn where there was warmth, safety and shelter.
Feeling totally frustrated, he exclaimed, "Why don't they follow me? Can't they see this is the only place where they can survive the storm? How can I possibly get them into the one place to save them?"
He thought for a moment and realized that they just wouldn't follow a human.
He said to himself, "How can I possibly save them? The only way would be for me to become like those geese. If only I could become like one of them! Then I could save them! They would follow me and I would lead them to safety."
At that moment, he stopped and considered what he had said. The words reverberated in his mind: "If only I could become like one of them- then I could save them."
And then, at last, he understood God's heart towards mankind, and he fell on his knees in the snow and worshipped Him.
There was once a man who didn't believe in the incarnation of Christ or the spiritual meaning of Christmas, and was skeptical about God. He and his family lived in a farm community. His wife was a devout believer and diligently raised her children in her faith. He sometimes gave her a hard time about her faith and mocked her religious observance of Christmas. "It's all nonsense - why would God lower himself and become a human like us? It's such a ridiculous story!" he said.
One snowy day, she and the children left for church while he stayed home. After they had left, the winds grew stronger and the snow turned into a blinding snowstorm. He sat down to relax before the fire for the evening.
Then he heard a loud thump, something hitting against the window. And another thump. He looked outside but couldn't see. So he ventured outside to see. In the field near his house he saw, of all the strangest things, a flock of geese!
They were apparently flying to look for a warmer area down south, but had been caught in the snow storm. The storm had become too blinding and violent for the geese to fly or see their way. They were stranded on his farm, with no food or shelter, unable to do more than flutter their wings and fly in aimless circles.
He had compassion for them and wanted to help them. He thought to himself, "The barn would be a great place for them to stay! It's warm and safe; surely they could spend the night and wait out the storm."
So he opened the barn doors for them. He waited, watching them, hoping they would notice the open barn and go inside. But they didn't notice the barn or realize what it could mean for them. He moved closer toward them to get their attention, but they just moved away from him out of fear.
He went into the house and came back out with some bread, broke it up, and made a bread trail to the barn. They still didn't catch on.
Starting to get frustrated, he went over and tried to shoo them toward the barn. They panicked and scattered into every direction except toward the barn. Nothing he did could get them to go into the barn where there was warmth, safety and shelter.
Feeling totally frustrated, he exclaimed, "Why don't they follow me? Can't they see this is the only place where they can survive the storm? How can I possibly get them into the one place to save them?"
He thought for a moment and realized that they just wouldn't follow a human.
He said to himself, "How can I possibly save them? The only way would be for me to become like those geese. If only I could become like one of them! Then I could save them! They would follow me and I would lead them to safety."
At that moment, he stopped and considered what he had said. The words reverberated in his mind: "If only I could become like one of them- then I could save them."
And then, at last, he understood God's heart towards mankind, and he fell on his knees in the snow and worshipped Him.
Sunday, December 01, 2002
THREE TREES
Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty."
Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull."
Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me."
After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter," and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.
At the second tree the woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.
When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree, I'll take this one," and he cut it down.
When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for. The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark.
The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.
Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and He stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.
Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.
The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.
Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty."
Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull."
Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me."
After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter," and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.
At the second tree the woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.
When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree, I'll take this one," and he cut it down.
When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for. The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark.
The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.
Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and He stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.
Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.
The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.
Monday, November 11, 2002
THE WATCH
"I say unto all, Watch." Mk 13:37
The hour of death is uncertain, and the second coming of Jesus is equally so; therefore we are commanded to be always ready, and to be on the WATCH. His coming is the grand object of our hope, and should be our daily desire and prayer. It will be awfully grand.
We are deeply interested in it. It is certain, necessary, and will be sudden. We know not the day, month, or year. God has purposely concealed it, in wisdom, in mercy, and for our good. He commands us to awake, and keep awake. To be at our post, and employed in our calling.
In order to our watching we must be daily believing Jesus will come; thinking and praying to be found ready. We should watch the signs of the times; the workings of our own hearts; and over our daily conduct. We should walk as we wish death or Jesus to find us; and transact every business as though Jesus was at the door.
Would you, beloved, wish to be found idle--contentious--at enmity--or murmuring--or indulging in any sin? If not, watch against these things; put off the old man, and put on the new.
Behold, the awful day comes on, When Jesus on His righteous throne shall in the clouds appear: With solemn pomp shall bow the sky and in the twinkling of an eye, arraign us at His bar.
"The Watch", from the Believer's Daily Remembrancer.
"I say unto all, Watch." Mk 13:37
The hour of death is uncertain, and the second coming of Jesus is equally so; therefore we are commanded to be always ready, and to be on the WATCH. His coming is the grand object of our hope, and should be our daily desire and prayer. It will be awfully grand.
We are deeply interested in it. It is certain, necessary, and will be sudden. We know not the day, month, or year. God has purposely concealed it, in wisdom, in mercy, and for our good. He commands us to awake, and keep awake. To be at our post, and employed in our calling.
In order to our watching we must be daily believing Jesus will come; thinking and praying to be found ready. We should watch the signs of the times; the workings of our own hearts; and over our daily conduct. We should walk as we wish death or Jesus to find us; and transact every business as though Jesus was at the door.
Would you, beloved, wish to be found idle--contentious--at enmity--or murmuring--or indulging in any sin? If not, watch against these things; put off the old man, and put on the new.
Behold, the awful day comes on, When Jesus on His righteous throne shall in the clouds appear: With solemn pomp shall bow the sky and in the twinkling of an eye, arraign us at His bar.
"The Watch", from the Believer's Daily Remembrancer.
Thursday, September 19, 2002
Pumpkins
A woman was asked by a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?" The coworker replied, "It is like being a pumpkin. God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. Then he cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc., and then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."
A woman was asked by a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?" The coworker replied, "It is like being a pumpkin. God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. Then he cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc., and then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."
Wednesday, September 18, 2002
Always Be Prepared to Give an Answer
By Hank Hanegraaff
Most Christians are aware of their responsibility to reach a dying world ith God's message. No less of an authority than Jesus exhorts us to roclaim the gospel (Matt. 10:27) and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19).However, there is another dimension often neglected in evangelism; namely, the defense of the gospel. The very Bible exhorting Christians to preach the gospel urges us to contend for the faith as well (Jude 3), just as the first Christians consistently offered reasoned defenses of their faith before unbelievers.
By Hank Hanegraaff
Most Christians are aware of their responsibility to reach a dying world ith God's message. No less of an authority than Jesus exhorts us to roclaim the gospel (Matt. 10:27) and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19).However, there is another dimension often neglected in evangelism; namely, the defense of the gospel. The very Bible exhorting Christians to preach the gospel urges us to contend for the faith as well (Jude 3), just as the first Christians consistently offered reasoned defenses of their faith before unbelievers.
Wednesday, August 07, 2002
Jesus Is Our Role Model
"What can you do today that might prompt someone to say, 'If that's what it means to be a Christian, I want to be one?" The readers of Christianity Today provided the following answers:
James S.: Treat everyone like a million dollars, since they are worth infinitely more than that to our loving Savior, Jesus Christ.
Rev. Dr. Allen C.: Emulate the characteristics of Christ.
Gerri G.: Show kindness in every way possible, even when someone is unkind to you.
Larry B.: Smile, love, and be a blessing to everyone, whenever and wherever you can.
Dale O.: Show extreme humility and hospitality.
Vic B: Just live a consistent, transparent kind of life -- genuinely loving in all circumstances.
William: What we say doesn't always communicate much, but actions speak volumes.
Helen P.: Have a consistent attitude of pure, infectious joy! After all, we have so much to be joyful about!
Laurie M.: Give to others freely, and never judge them. I don't have to like the sin, but I'll love the sinner.
David C.: Actions that demonstrate love for our enemies -- speaking out against injustice, caring for the hurting, pointing out the plank in our own eyes, and laying down our lives for our neighbours and enemies.
Lisa W.: I became a Christian because of a co-worker: It may sound silly, but it was the expression on her face, the smile in her eyes, the sheer joy that she found in being a Christian that made me wonder what that Bible stuff was all about. So, there it is. Sometimes it's not so much what you do but the look on your face when you do it.
Glendean T.: Always live above and beyond -- not just good enough or barely. Go the second mile -- that will get their attention. When in doubt, just be different from the world. Be an outrageous Christian.
Live each day as if you are the only Bible some people will read. (Name withheld)
Is Jesus the model for your life? Are you showing the world his attributes through your daily life?
"What can you do today that might prompt someone to say, 'If that's what it means to be a Christian, I want to be one?" The readers of Christianity Today provided the following answers:
James S.: Treat everyone like a million dollars, since they are worth infinitely more than that to our loving Savior, Jesus Christ.
Rev. Dr. Allen C.: Emulate the characteristics of Christ.
Gerri G.: Show kindness in every way possible, even when someone is unkind to you.
Larry B.: Smile, love, and be a blessing to everyone, whenever and wherever you can.
Dale O.: Show extreme humility and hospitality.
Vic B: Just live a consistent, transparent kind of life -- genuinely loving in all circumstances.
William: What we say doesn't always communicate much, but actions speak volumes.
Helen P.: Have a consistent attitude of pure, infectious joy! After all, we have so much to be joyful about!
Laurie M.: Give to others freely, and never judge them. I don't have to like the sin, but I'll love the sinner.
David C.: Actions that demonstrate love for our enemies -- speaking out against injustice, caring for the hurting, pointing out the plank in our own eyes, and laying down our lives for our neighbours and enemies.
Lisa W.: I became a Christian because of a co-worker: It may sound silly, but it was the expression on her face, the smile in her eyes, the sheer joy that she found in being a Christian that made me wonder what that Bible stuff was all about. So, there it is. Sometimes it's not so much what you do but the look on your face when you do it.
Glendean T.: Always live above and beyond -- not just good enough or barely. Go the second mile -- that will get their attention. When in doubt, just be different from the world. Be an outrageous Christian.
Live each day as if you are the only Bible some people will read. (Name withheld)
Is Jesus the model for your life? Are you showing the world his attributes through your daily life?
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