Cell Phones vs. Bible (author unknown)
I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phones.
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it as we traveled?
What if we used it in case of an emergency?
This is something to make you go ...hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing.
Unlike our cell phone, we don't ever have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Things I came across today in my travels
Lutherans and Revisionist Theology
Why do Confessional Lutherans and Revisionists come to a differentunderstanding of Grace? The key to understanding Luther's theology isthe insight that one simple statement cannot cover all of the truth("the unchangeable truth of the divine Word", Preface to the Book ofConcord). Good holistic theology understands that there is more tothe truth than can be said by one doctrine such as the teaching aboutgrace. http://www.solid-ground.ca/a-revtheology.htm
******************
Bird Flu and the ELCA
Why should we worry about an outbreak of the bird flu in Asia? That is so far away. That would not affect us? Or, could it? Why should we worry about the action of the ELCA to tolerate cohabiting homosexuals as pastors in the ELCA? Our sister church in the USA, the ELCA, has decided not to discipline its pastors who openly declare to be homosexuals who cohabit with other homosexuals. Why should we worry? Our ELCIC has an agreement with the ELCA to a free exchange of pastors across the border. Should we be concerned about that? Frank Pastore raises important questions about the message being sent to our Lutheran youth in light of the action taken by the recent ELCAChurchwide Assembly. http://www.townhall.com/Columnists/FrankPastore/2007/08/19/sex_and_the_lutheran_youth_group
He writes: "How can they do that? I mean, how can the leadership of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) tell their kids with a
straight face not to be sexually active outside of marriage when
they've just voted last Saturday to no longer enforce the celibacy
requirement for their unmarried staff - both straight and gay? The
ELCA and other pro-gay denominations have been ordaining gays for decades. That's nothing new. What's new is that now staff can openly have lovers while on the job and there will be no disciplinary action for violating the celibacy requirement. The message to the kids is loud and clear: We can have sex with our boyfriends and girlfriends, but you can't".
******************
I AM
I was regretting the pastand fearing the future.
Suddenly my Lord was speaking:
"My name is I AM"
He paused. I waited. He continued,
"When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard.
I am not there.
My name is not I WAS.
When you live in the future,
with its problems and fears, it is hard.
I am not there.
My name is not I WILL BE.
When you live in this moment it is not hard.
I am here,
My name is I AM."
Helen Mallicoat
And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM:and He said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Exodus 3:14
http://www.inspiring-quotes-and-stories.com/my-name-is-i-am.html
**********************
Asking God
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a by-product of tribulations;
it isn't granted, it is earned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings.
Happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from
worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me LOVE others,
as much as God loves me.
God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
Unknown
**********************
Why do Confessional Lutherans and Revisionists come to a differentunderstanding of Grace? The key to understanding Luther's theology isthe insight that one simple statement cannot cover all of the truth("the unchangeable truth of the divine Word", Preface to the Book ofConcord). Good holistic theology understands that there is more tothe truth than can be said by one doctrine such as the teaching aboutgrace. http://www.solid-ground.ca/a-revtheology.htm
******************
Bird Flu and the ELCA
Why should we worry about an outbreak of the bird flu in Asia? That is so far away. That would not affect us? Or, could it? Why should we worry about the action of the ELCA to tolerate cohabiting homosexuals as pastors in the ELCA? Our sister church in the USA, the ELCA, has decided not to discipline its pastors who openly declare to be homosexuals who cohabit with other homosexuals. Why should we worry? Our ELCIC has an agreement with the ELCA to a free exchange of pastors across the border. Should we be concerned about that? Frank Pastore raises important questions about the message being sent to our Lutheran youth in light of the action taken by the recent ELCAChurchwide Assembly. http://www.townhall.com/Columnists/FrankPastore/2007/08/19/sex_and_the_lutheran_youth_group
He writes: "How can they do that? I mean, how can the leadership of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) tell their kids with a
straight face not to be sexually active outside of marriage when
they've just voted last Saturday to no longer enforce the celibacy
requirement for their unmarried staff - both straight and gay? The
ELCA and other pro-gay denominations have been ordaining gays for decades. That's nothing new. What's new is that now staff can openly have lovers while on the job and there will be no disciplinary action for violating the celibacy requirement. The message to the kids is loud and clear: We can have sex with our boyfriends and girlfriends, but you can't".
******************
I AM
I was regretting the pastand fearing the future.
Suddenly my Lord was speaking:
"My name is I AM"
He paused. I waited. He continued,
"When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard.
I am not there.
My name is not I WAS.
When you live in the future,
with its problems and fears, it is hard.
I am not there.
My name is not I WILL BE.
When you live in this moment it is not hard.
I am here,
My name is I AM."
Helen Mallicoat
And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM:and He said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Exodus 3:14
http://www.inspiring-quotes-and-stories.com/my-name-is-i-am.html
**********************
Asking God
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a by-product of tribulations;
it isn't granted, it is earned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings.
Happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from
worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me LOVE others,
as much as God loves me.
God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
Unknown
**********************
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Lessons
My lesson given to me yesterday morning
(before I heard about my friends house fire)...
You only have today -- this moment.
My lesson from this past year...
(after my brothers wedding and all that it entails)
Have no expectations when it comes to people and relationships.
Life will be more enjoyable and less disappointing.
An article I read today
Catechesis, Confession, and Admittance to the Holy Communion
http://sword-in-hat.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss
How does your church practice confirmation?
http://sword-in-hat.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss
How does your church practice confirmation?
This story always makes me smile...
To those of us who have children in our lives, Whether they are our own,Grandchildren,Nieces,Nephews,Or students...
Here is something to make you chuckle.
Whenever your children are out of control,
You can take comfort from the thought that
Even God's omnipotence did not extend
To His own children.
After creating heaven and earth,
God created Adam and Eve.
And the first thing he said was"DON'T! "
"Don't what? " Adam replied.
"Don't eat the forbidden fruit." God said.
"Forbidden fruit? We have forbidden fruit? Hey Eve..we have forbidden fruit! "
"No Way! " "Yes way! "
"Do NOT eat the fruit! " Said God.
"Why ? "
"Because I am your Father and I said so! " God replied, Wondering why He hadn't stopped Creation after making the elephants.
A few minutes later,God saw His children having an apple break
And He was ticked!
"Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit? " God asked.
"Uh huh," Adam replied.
"Then why did you? " Said the Father.
"I don't know," Said Eve.
"She started it! " Adam said.
"Did not! "
"Did too! "
"DID NOT! "
Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve Should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed.
BUT THERE IS REASSURANCE IN THE STORY!
If you have persistently and lovingly tried to give children wisdom and they haven't taken it, Don't be hard on yourself. If God had trouble raising children, What makes you think it would be A piece of cake for you?
Here is something to make you chuckle.
Whenever your children are out of control,
You can take comfort from the thought that
Even God's omnipotence did not extend
To His own children.
After creating heaven and earth,
God created Adam and Eve.
And the first thing he said was"DON'T! "
"Don't what? " Adam replied.
"Don't eat the forbidden fruit." God said.
"Forbidden fruit? We have forbidden fruit? Hey Eve..we have forbidden fruit! "
"No Way! " "Yes way! "
"Do NOT eat the fruit! " Said God.
"Why ? "
"Because I am your Father and I said so! " God replied, Wondering why He hadn't stopped Creation after making the elephants.
A few minutes later,God saw His children having an apple break
And He was ticked!
"Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit? " God asked.
"Uh huh," Adam replied.
"Then why did you? " Said the Father.
"I don't know," Said Eve.
"She started it! " Adam said.
"Did not! "
"Did too! "
"DID NOT! "
Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve Should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed.
BUT THERE IS REASSURANCE IN THE STORY!
If you have persistently and lovingly tried to give children wisdom and they haven't taken it, Don't be hard on yourself. If God had trouble raising children, What makes you think it would be A piece of cake for you?
Quotes from John Bunyan
John Bunyan:(1628~1688)
Famous Books He's Written:
1. Pilgrim's Progress
2. Holy War
Quotes:
'God has set a Savior against sin,a heaven against a hell,light against darkness,good against evil,and the breadth and length and depth and height of grace that is in Himself for my good,against all the power and strength and subtlety of every enemy.'"
~¤~
Pray often; for prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan.
~¤~
He who runs from God in the morning will scarcely find him the rest of the day.
~¤~
If you have sinned, do not lie down without repentance; for the want of repentance after one has sinned makes the heart yet harder and harder.
~¤~
Prayer will make a man cease from sin, or sin will entice a man to cease from prayer.
~¤~
When you pray, rather let your heart be without words, that your words be without heart.
~¤~
If we have not quiet in our minds, outward comfort will do no more for us that a golden slipper on a gouty foot.
~*~
Sin is the dare of God's justice, the rape of His mercy, the jeer of His patience, the slight of His power, and the contempt of His love.
~*~
Better to be despised for too anxious apprehensions than ruined by too confident a security.
Famous Books He's Written:
1. Pilgrim's Progress
2. Holy War
Quotes:
'God has set a Savior against sin,a heaven against a hell,light against darkness,good against evil,and the breadth and length and depth and height of grace that is in Himself for my good,against all the power and strength and subtlety of every enemy.'"
~¤~
Pray often; for prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan.
~¤~
He who runs from God in the morning will scarcely find him the rest of the day.
~¤~
If you have sinned, do not lie down without repentance; for the want of repentance after one has sinned makes the heart yet harder and harder.
~¤~
Prayer will make a man cease from sin, or sin will entice a man to cease from prayer.
~¤~
When you pray, rather let your heart be without words, that your words be without heart.
~¤~
If we have not quiet in our minds, outward comfort will do no more for us that a golden slipper on a gouty foot.
~*~
Sin is the dare of God's justice, the rape of His mercy, the jeer of His patience, the slight of His power, and the contempt of His love.
~*~
Better to be despised for too anxious apprehensions than ruined by too confident a security.
A CONVERSATION WITH THE LORD
“I want to love You more.” I said to the Lord.
“If you would love Me more, you must know Me.” He said.
“I do know You, Lord.”
“You do not know Me until You know that I am holy.”
“I know that You are holy, Lord.”
“You know it when can you see yourself through My holiness. Are you willing?”
“Yes, Lord.”
And the Lord showed me myself. The sting of every word spoken in anger, the ugliness of every slander whether I said it in my heart or from my lips, the repulsiveness of every ungodly fantasy lingered upon was shown me. I smelled the foul stench of my lust, fear, unbelief and scorn. I heard the true sounds of my half-hearted and polluted praise. Every incidence of hypocrisy was laid bare. I was exposed for the fraud I was.
I was naked and ashamed.
I forgot all about asking God to love Him more. I could not even begin to think of coming near Him. He would never receive me.
I closed my eyes, pleading inside that I would no longer have the lenses of holiness.
“Open your eyes,” the Lord said. “See My holiness.”
I cried out, “Lord, I cannot bear it!”
“Open your eyes, Child.”
I opened my eyes and my filth was being washed away. Every injury, every sin, every rebellious act of violence against God was removed. Jesus Himself clothed me and my shame was no more. And I saw that holiness was beautiful.
“I love you more, Lord!” I cried.
“The one who is forgiven much loves much,” He said.
“If you would love Me more, you must know Me.” He said.
“I do know You, Lord.”
“You do not know Me until You know that I am holy.”
“I know that You are holy, Lord.”
“You know it when can you see yourself through My holiness. Are you willing?”
“Yes, Lord.”
And the Lord showed me myself. The sting of every word spoken in anger, the ugliness of every slander whether I said it in my heart or from my lips, the repulsiveness of every ungodly fantasy lingered upon was shown me. I smelled the foul stench of my lust, fear, unbelief and scorn. I heard the true sounds of my half-hearted and polluted praise. Every incidence of hypocrisy was laid bare. I was exposed for the fraud I was.
I was naked and ashamed.
I forgot all about asking God to love Him more. I could not even begin to think of coming near Him. He would never receive me.
I closed my eyes, pleading inside that I would no longer have the lenses of holiness.
“Open your eyes,” the Lord said. “See My holiness.”
I cried out, “Lord, I cannot bear it!”
“Open your eyes, Child.”
I opened my eyes and my filth was being washed away. Every injury, every sin, every rebellious act of violence against God was removed. Jesus Himself clothed me and my shame was no more. And I saw that holiness was beautiful.
“I love you more, Lord!” I cried.
“The one who is forgiven much loves much,” He said.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Visiting today....
Blogs I stopped by to visit today....
What my baptism means to me --
http://askalutheran.blogspot.com/
Prayer Walks ---
http://holyexperience.blogspot.com
(I love the idea and simplicity of house churches.)
Weekly Wisdom ---
http://www.christnotes.org/ww.php
The Reason We have Creeds ---
http://lutheranhoosier.blogspot.com/
What my baptism means to me --
http://askalutheran.blogspot.com/
Prayer Walks ---
http://holyexperience.blogspot.com
(I love the idea and simplicity of house churches.)
Weekly Wisdom ---
http://www.christnotes.org/ww.php
The Reason We have Creeds ---
http://lutheranhoosier.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
From my online travels today....
Check this out - it gives you very interesting statistics http://www.poodwaddle.com/worldclock.swf
********************************************************
What would you have done?
Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a Church in Houston, Texas.
Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change.
As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, "You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it."
Then he thought, "Oh, forget it, it's only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet."
When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, "Here, you gave me too much change."
The driver, with a smile, replied, "Aren't you the new preacher in town? I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday."
When the preacher stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, "Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter."
Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read.
Remember that you carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself "Christian."
Watch your thoughts...they become words.
Watch your words...they become actions.
Watch your actions...they become habits.
Watch your habits...they become character.
Watch your character;...it becomes your destiny.
Stay FAITHFUL and Be GRATEFUL
***************************************************************************
This entertained me for a few minutes today… go give it a try.
Crazy Rabbit http://www.changar.com/archives/go.HTML
****************************************************************************
Part of my mission in life is to "Meet People at their Point of Need."
~Jordan Rubin
***************************************************************************
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31:10 (NIV)
It’s interesting that in Proverbs 31 before God ever addresses the godly woman’s “to do” list, he establishes her worth. Before she ever says or does anything, He deems her worthy, apart from all works and He does it in such a way that we can never forget it. He doesn’t just label her adequate, but He raves about her, ranking her superior to the rarest, most exquisite stones. God’s woman is worth more than costly gems. That woman is you!
~~Bonita Lillie~~
************************************************************************
From a friend... (I will post thoughts on this later...)
I read this this morning and was absolutely stunned by it:http://www.christianpost.com/article/20070812/28866.htm
Lutherans urged to not punish gays in committed relationships--
**************************************************************************
********************************************************
What would you have done?
Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a Church in Houston, Texas.
Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change.
As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, "You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it."
Then he thought, "Oh, forget it, it's only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet."
When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, "Here, you gave me too much change."
The driver, with a smile, replied, "Aren't you the new preacher in town? I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday."
When the preacher stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, "Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter."
Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read.
Remember that you carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself "Christian."
Watch your thoughts...they become words.
Watch your words...they become actions.
Watch your actions...they become habits.
Watch your habits...they become character.
Watch your character;...it becomes your destiny.
Stay FAITHFUL and Be GRATEFUL
***************************************************************************
This entertained me for a few minutes today… go give it a try.
Crazy Rabbit http://www.changar.com/archives/go.HTML
****************************************************************************
Part of my mission in life is to "Meet People at their Point of Need."
~Jordan Rubin
***************************************************************************
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31:10 (NIV)
It’s interesting that in Proverbs 31 before God ever addresses the godly woman’s “to do” list, he establishes her worth. Before she ever says or does anything, He deems her worthy, apart from all works and He does it in such a way that we can never forget it. He doesn’t just label her adequate, but He raves about her, ranking her superior to the rarest, most exquisite stones. God’s woman is worth more than costly gems. That woman is you!
~~Bonita Lillie~~
************************************************************************
From a friend... (I will post thoughts on this later...)
I read this this morning and was absolutely stunned by it:http://www.christianpost.com/article/20070812/28866.htm
Lutherans urged to not punish gays in committed relationships--
**************************************************************************
Friday, August 10, 2007
MIA since July 25th, where have I been...?
I have no idea! LMBO! I honestly don't. My brain seems to have taken a vacation without me this week and I am walking around in a complete fog. I am not kidding. I can't remember the names of people, the names of movies, my name... (just kidding but close). And I having the weirdest and most vivid dreams where I wake up and can't quite tell what was real and what wasn't. Remember something during the day and can't tell if it was in my dream or did it actually happen. I am so surprised my DH let me drive the car to town today. LOL
Well let's see, I can look at the calendar, maybe that will help. July 29th, my son turned 12, which means he is one year closer to being a teenager. YIKES! Where does the time go. That reminds me, I still need to plan a birthday party for him. Luckily he is being very patient with me.
Last weekend there was a wonderful event in my town. We had a community church service held on center street! We have 9 churches in out community and we all came together as the one Body of Christ on this day and worshiped together. It was awesome. I hear that this event will happen again next year, I am looking forward to it.
Wes finished the silaging before all this rain hit. That was a great blessing. Now I am ready for the sun to come back out to help me get out of these doldrums. Maybe it is because of the weather my brain took a vacation. I know I am person who NEEDS the sun on a regular basis. Note to self... look on the weather map and find out where it sunny and go get my brain! LOL
I had a very interesting discussion with a friend the other day about tithing. This can be a pretty touchy subject for some but luckily we are very open with each other and don't take anything personally. I shared with Wes the details of the situation and got some interesting responses from him as well.
I have been busy reading and planning for the new school year. I want this to be our best year to date. It will year 3 on this HS journey. But I think I have figured things out and God willing things will work out.
I have been babysitting the last couple of days, which has me getting out of bed at 6am. I no longer get up at this time of the day (I used to be a morning person and rose at this time with no alarm clock, but my DH has switched me around). So I have been dragging around the house, coffee has barely been helping. I feel a morning of sleeping in coming on for tomorrow!!! *smile*
I watched the movie Ghost Rider the other night. I didn't like it, way too evil for my taste. I am not even sure why I agreed to watch it. Jordan has requested to watch it, but that won't be happening under my watchful eye.
Well I am starting to nod off at the keyboard, so it is now time to go DO something to keep me awake. The kids won't be going home until 5:30, so I have some to kill yet. Maybe I could go and start to make my bed and accidentally fall on the bed and it will knock me unconscious and I can catch a few zzzzz's.
Till next time..... (when hopefully I will be more coherent...LOL)
Well let's see, I can look at the calendar, maybe that will help. July 29th, my son turned 12, which means he is one year closer to being a teenager. YIKES! Where does the time go. That reminds me, I still need to plan a birthday party for him. Luckily he is being very patient with me.
Last weekend there was a wonderful event in my town. We had a community church service held on center street! We have 9 churches in out community and we all came together as the one Body of Christ on this day and worshiped together. It was awesome. I hear that this event will happen again next year, I am looking forward to it.
Wes finished the silaging before all this rain hit. That was a great blessing. Now I am ready for the sun to come back out to help me get out of these doldrums. Maybe it is because of the weather my brain took a vacation. I know I am person who NEEDS the sun on a regular basis. Note to self... look on the weather map and find out where it sunny and go get my brain! LOL
I had a very interesting discussion with a friend the other day about tithing. This can be a pretty touchy subject for some but luckily we are very open with each other and don't take anything personally. I shared with Wes the details of the situation and got some interesting responses from him as well.
I have been busy reading and planning for the new school year. I want this to be our best year to date. It will year 3 on this HS journey. But I think I have figured things out and God willing things will work out.
I have been babysitting the last couple of days, which has me getting out of bed at 6am. I no longer get up at this time of the day (I used to be a morning person and rose at this time with no alarm clock, but my DH has switched me around). So I have been dragging around the house, coffee has barely been helping. I feel a morning of sleeping in coming on for tomorrow!!! *smile*
I watched the movie Ghost Rider the other night. I didn't like it, way too evil for my taste. I am not even sure why I agreed to watch it. Jordan has requested to watch it, but that won't be happening under my watchful eye.
Well I am starting to nod off at the keyboard, so it is now time to go DO something to keep me awake. The kids won't be going home until 5:30, so I have some to kill yet. Maybe I could go and start to make my bed and accidentally fall on the bed and it will knock me unconscious and I can catch a few zzzzz's.
Till next time..... (when hopefully I will be more coherent...LOL)
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
I had a pop quiz this morning!
Good morning,
So have you ever had a pop quiz from your Pastor???? I did this morning. We quite often will chat online in the mornings, and this morning he pops in and says he has a quick question. Okay, no problem. He asks, "what are the Lutheran confessions?" I am like, "do you mean the creeds?" He says no the Lutheran Confessions. I tell him I am not a very good Lutheran and I am not sure. But I don't like to be stumped, so I quickly switch windows and do a search for Lutheran Confessions... it turns out they are contained in the Book of Concord. I should have known that but I always second guess myself. So I tell him it is the Book of Concord.... and YAY I pass. LOL! That is way too much pressure for first thing in the morning. :o)
So according to this website the Lutheran confessions are "10 special statements of faith that Lutherans have adopted as official confessions of what they believe. Far more than historical documents, they are still viewed today as a definitive statement of what it means to be Christian and Lutheran. Lutherans view the Lutheran Confessions to be a standard by which all teaching and practice in their churches must be judged. This is because Lutherans have already become convinced that these Confessions are a correct exposition of the Word of God, the ultimate authority and standard of Christian truth." I knew that! Wes and I attended a workshop last fall about the Book of Concord. Before that I had no idea what it was. During the workshop it was probably one of the first times I thought maybe I could be a Lutheran. Before that I always said that I attended a Lutheran church but I was not a Lutheran! I kind of had a bad taste in my mouth where Lutherans were concerned for various reasons, however over the last few months through a variety of reading I have done, I just might be a Lutheran. (Giggling here because I have Jeff Foxworthy's voice in my head as I say that.... LOL!)
I first and foremost consider myself a Christian, but I am becoming more and more convinced that I am becoming a Lutheran Christian. I wonder how many Lutherans know about the Book of Concord???? Because as a Lutheran you are saying that you agree to what it says within its pages. Kind of like being a Christian but never reading your Bible or attending church.
So those are my random thoughts for this morning.
God bless!
So have you ever had a pop quiz from your Pastor???? I did this morning. We quite often will chat online in the mornings, and this morning he pops in and says he has a quick question. Okay, no problem. He asks, "what are the Lutheran confessions?" I am like, "do you mean the creeds?" He says no the Lutheran Confessions. I tell him I am not a very good Lutheran and I am not sure. But I don't like to be stumped, so I quickly switch windows and do a search for Lutheran Confessions... it turns out they are contained in the Book of Concord. I should have known that but I always second guess myself. So I tell him it is the Book of Concord.... and YAY I pass. LOL! That is way too much pressure for first thing in the morning. :o)
So according to this website the Lutheran confessions are "10 special statements of faith that Lutherans have adopted as official confessions of what they believe. Far more than historical documents, they are still viewed today as a definitive statement of what it means to be Christian and Lutheran. Lutherans view the Lutheran Confessions to be a standard by which all teaching and practice in their churches must be judged. This is because Lutherans have already become convinced that these Confessions are a correct exposition of the Word of God, the ultimate authority and standard of Christian truth." I knew that! Wes and I attended a workshop last fall about the Book of Concord. Before that I had no idea what it was. During the workshop it was probably one of the first times I thought maybe I could be a Lutheran. Before that I always said that I attended a Lutheran church but I was not a Lutheran! I kind of had a bad taste in my mouth where Lutherans were concerned for various reasons, however over the last few months through a variety of reading I have done, I just might be a Lutheran. (Giggling here because I have Jeff Foxworthy's voice in my head as I say that.... LOL!)
I first and foremost consider myself a Christian, but I am becoming more and more convinced that I am becoming a Lutheran Christian. I wonder how many Lutherans know about the Book of Concord???? Because as a Lutheran you are saying that you agree to what it says within its pages. Kind of like being a Christian but never reading your Bible or attending church.
So those are my random thoughts for this morning.
God bless!
Friday, July 20, 2007
love quote
"The proof of love is in the works.
Where love exists, it works great things.
But when it ceases to act,
it ceases to exist."
- Saint Gregory the Great
Where love exists, it works great things.
But when it ceases to act,
it ceases to exist."
- Saint Gregory the Great
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Just a few thoughts for today.
TIDBITS HERE AND THERE:
~ As of yesterday, Wes and I have been married for 14 years. Where does the time go? And we have know each other for 21 years, since the day I was the new girl in school in grade 8 and he had a secret crush in me. Fast forward to grade twelve, I had a secret crush on him. Well not such a secret really, just about everyone in our class knew it except him... even his best friend knew and didn't tell him. I really wanted Wes to be date for prom but never got the guts to ask him. But somehow we eventually did end up getting together and the rest as they say is history. Happy Anniversary, honey. My wish is that everyone would have the blessing of a marriage like ours. Here's to many, many more years of wedded bliss.
~ I went for my stress test today. And as soon as the got me hooked up to the monitors you could tell I was stressed! My heart rate was up in the 90's (usually in the 50's) and my blood pressure was 110/87 (usually 94/55). But I did 5 minutes on the treadmill, reached my maximum heart rate... no chest pains or anything out of sorts, sooooooo, I passed. YAY! The cardiologist says I don't have to go back to see him. Very exciting news.
~ Today I saw two "boys" I used to babysit, except they aren't boys anymore, they are young men. Does this mean I am getting old???? LOL! Wes's response to this question was..."Yes hon, we did just get back from testing your heart." Um, thanks for the support there Wes. *grin*
~ I know need to continue my thoughts from my previous post, I haven't forgotten. I really feel like I am going through some spiritual growing pains lately. It is very exciting.
~ In 10 days, my dear son will turn 12 years old. Wasn't it just yesterday I was helping him walk, or sending him off to school for the first time with my heart breaking. Do you know that in just SIX years he will be 18???? I guess that is why this quote really hits home --- " The days are long but the years are short." and "We remember moments not days." Take a moment out of your day and go hug your kids because the next thing you know, they won't be kids anymore!
~ Well I guess I should go and get a few things done before my kids arrive home (they decided to stay at Nana's for a while longer today and Papa will drive them home.)
Have a wonderful evening.
~ As of yesterday, Wes and I have been married for 14 years. Where does the time go? And we have know each other for 21 years, since the day I was the new girl in school in grade 8 and he had a secret crush in me. Fast forward to grade twelve, I had a secret crush on him. Well not such a secret really, just about everyone in our class knew it except him... even his best friend knew and didn't tell him. I really wanted Wes to be date for prom but never got the guts to ask him. But somehow we eventually did end up getting together and the rest as they say is history. Happy Anniversary, honey. My wish is that everyone would have the blessing of a marriage like ours. Here's to many, many more years of wedded bliss.
~ I went for my stress test today. And as soon as the got me hooked up to the monitors you could tell I was stressed! My heart rate was up in the 90's (usually in the 50's) and my blood pressure was 110/87 (usually 94/55). But I did 5 minutes on the treadmill, reached my maximum heart rate... no chest pains or anything out of sorts, sooooooo, I passed. YAY! The cardiologist says I don't have to go back to see him. Very exciting news.
~ Today I saw two "boys" I used to babysit, except they aren't boys anymore, they are young men. Does this mean I am getting old???? LOL! Wes's response to this question was..."Yes hon, we did just get back from testing your heart." Um, thanks for the support there Wes. *grin*
~ I know need to continue my thoughts from my previous post, I haven't forgotten. I really feel like I am going through some spiritual growing pains lately. It is very exciting.
~ In 10 days, my dear son will turn 12 years old. Wasn't it just yesterday I was helping him walk, or sending him off to school for the first time with my heart breaking. Do you know that in just SIX years he will be 18???? I guess that is why this quote really hits home --- " The days are long but the years are short." and "We remember moments not days." Take a moment out of your day and go hug your kids because the next thing you know, they won't be kids anymore!
~ Well I guess I should go and get a few things done before my kids arrive home (they decided to stay at Nana's for a while longer today and Papa will drive them home.)
Have a wonderful evening.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Quote about our relationship with Christ
Christ is either Lord of all
or
He is not Lord at all. ~Hudson Taylor~
I came across this quote today and it kind of sums up how I have been thinking/feeling lately. I know my relationship with God, my obedience and discipleship needs to be more. I have been coasting for entirely too long now. And this past year has been a time of reawakening for me. We have a new Pastor at our church (who is also now a dear friend) and his work for God at our church has woken me from my comfortable slumber. My cousin/sister has also helped to wake me up as well. The have wonderfully alive relationship's with God and I am drawn to what they speak of and want that for myself as well. I have been attending a great Bible study this past year, having inspiring conversations about what God is doing in so many lives, reading great books that spark a hunger for more. A hunger not just for myself but those church 'family' members who I can see have also changed this past year. I want us all to take that next 'step' together with our walk with God however I think I am the only one who us ready and so eager for it at this point. The other day I was pouring out my concerns with my friend (who is also my Pastor, sometimes it is hard to keep those two roles distinguished from each other in our conversations) and he gave me a Bible verse --- Psalm 37:7 -- "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him...". I didn't know the verse but it so pertains to my journey with God. But more about that in my next post.
or
He is not Lord at all. ~Hudson Taylor~
I came across this quote today and it kind of sums up how I have been thinking/feeling lately. I know my relationship with God, my obedience and discipleship needs to be more. I have been coasting for entirely too long now. And this past year has been a time of reawakening for me. We have a new Pastor at our church (who is also now a dear friend) and his work for God at our church has woken me from my comfortable slumber. My cousin/sister has also helped to wake me up as well. The have wonderfully alive relationship's with God and I am drawn to what they speak of and want that for myself as well. I have been attending a great Bible study this past year, having inspiring conversations about what God is doing in so many lives, reading great books that spark a hunger for more. A hunger not just for myself but those church 'family' members who I can see have also changed this past year. I want us all to take that next 'step' together with our walk with God however I think I am the only one who us ready and so eager for it at this point. The other day I was pouring out my concerns with my friend (who is also my Pastor, sometimes it is hard to keep those two roles distinguished from each other in our conversations) and he gave me a Bible verse --- Psalm 37:7 -- "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him...". I didn't know the verse but it so pertains to my journey with God. But more about that in my next post.
My heart is ok
Well I certainly left this blog in a bad place, didn't I? Well I am happy to report that everything is okay where my heart is concerned. I went to see the cardiologist and he seems to think that there is a small chance it might be heart related but very slim. I do have some health issues where I could have heart problems so he has schdeuled me for a treadmill stress test for this coming Wednesday. A friend of mine tells me the test is 10 minutes of hell. What a wonderful thing to look forward to. I am hoping my injured foot will hold out for the test otherwise I might have to go for the radioactive dye test and I really rather avoid any radioactive material.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Hospitals are no fun
Well yesterday was an interesting day. I spent 5 hours in the emergency department of our local hospital. I wasn't rushed there or anything like that, actually I drove myself there. The problem was that I had been having weird chest pain/discomfort with an added bonus of pressure and numbness in my left arm, jawline and neck. All very suspecting of heart troubles. It started Monday night, continued on during Tuesday (coming and going as it pleased) and finally Wednesday morning I bit the bullet and decided maybe I should go seek medical attention. Well I promptly was lectured by my nurse about waiting so long to seek help. She was very sweet and you could tell her concern was sincere. So I promised that if this ever happened again I would come in right away.
So anyway, I was given a ECG and hooked up to a heart monitor. Everything came back clean, no trouble with the heart. Then they did a bunch of blood tests to check for heart damage, still everything came like perfect. So the resident doctor was all ready to let me go home but the jaw/arm pain thing was making them second guess themselves. So they decided to give me a shot of nitroglycerin to see if my chest discomfort would go away. So first they ask me what the discomfort level is on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the worst pain I have felt, and I responded maybe a 1. Well they give me the nitro and ask me if I feel better, I am like well, I guess so. It wasn't that bad so it was kind of hard to tell. So they run off again to chat amongst themselves. I wait and wait, and wait. Nothing to read or do so I started experimenting with how much I could affect my heart rate, making it go faster or slower. I got my heart rate down to 47 beats per minute and I think the highest was 120 or something like that. What else could I do???? I was attached to oxygen, heart monitor and such... I had to do something to entertain myself...*Grin*. So after a bit the doctor comes in and says they are considering keeping me overnight for observation. Then he goes away again. Next he comes back and says he has spoken with a cardiologist and they have decided I should have a heart test done. So that should be in about a months time and I go see the cardiologist next week. They gave me 3 prescriptions to take home 1-a nitro bottle * just in case, 2-aspirin, and 3- a medication that will slow down my heart so it won't work too hard and lower my blood pressure. I asked the doctor if he really thought it was a good idea to put me on this and he said it is better to prevent than treat so he said yes. Well I did more research this morning on the drug and I have decided I am not going to take it. You see I already have a slow heart rate (50-60 bpm) and my blood pressure is always pressure is always low as well (95/50) so for me to take this medicine would be highly dangerous in my opinion ESPECIALLY when they don't think it is a heart problem but are treating it as one until after the test I take in a months time. Sometimes I have to really wonder about doctors. This is why a person has to be their own advocate when it comes to their health, educate themselves on their conditions and drugs prescribed.
So in summary, I feel fine today. My chest still feels a bit funny but I am guessing it has to do with my back/neck being out and I am going to go and see my chiropractor about it. The doctor also mentioned that I may have a viral infection in the cartilage of my chest (which I have had before) which would also explain some of the chest discomfort.
So that was my exciting day yesterday.
So anyway, I was given a ECG and hooked up to a heart monitor. Everything came back clean, no trouble with the heart. Then they did a bunch of blood tests to check for heart damage, still everything came like perfect. So the resident doctor was all ready to let me go home but the jaw/arm pain thing was making them second guess themselves. So they decided to give me a shot of nitroglycerin to see if my chest discomfort would go away. So first they ask me what the discomfort level is on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the worst pain I have felt, and I responded maybe a 1. Well they give me the nitro and ask me if I feel better, I am like well, I guess so. It wasn't that bad so it was kind of hard to tell. So they run off again to chat amongst themselves. I wait and wait, and wait. Nothing to read or do so I started experimenting with how much I could affect my heart rate, making it go faster or slower. I got my heart rate down to 47 beats per minute and I think the highest was 120 or something like that. What else could I do???? I was attached to oxygen, heart monitor and such... I had to do something to entertain myself...*Grin*. So after a bit the doctor comes in and says they are considering keeping me overnight for observation. Then he goes away again. Next he comes back and says he has spoken with a cardiologist and they have decided I should have a heart test done. So that should be in about a months time and I go see the cardiologist next week. They gave me 3 prescriptions to take home 1-a nitro bottle * just in case, 2-aspirin, and 3- a medication that will slow down my heart so it won't work too hard and lower my blood pressure. I asked the doctor if he really thought it was a good idea to put me on this and he said it is better to prevent than treat so he said yes. Well I did more research this morning on the drug and I have decided I am not going to take it. You see I already have a slow heart rate (50-60 bpm) and my blood pressure is always pressure is always low as well (95/50) so for me to take this medicine would be highly dangerous in my opinion ESPECIALLY when they don't think it is a heart problem but are treating it as one until after the test I take in a months time. Sometimes I have to really wonder about doctors. This is why a person has to be their own advocate when it comes to their health, educate themselves on their conditions and drugs prescribed.
So in summary, I feel fine today. My chest still feels a bit funny but I am guessing it has to do with my back/neck being out and I am going to go and see my chiropractor about it. The doctor also mentioned that I may have a viral infection in the cartilage of my chest (which I have had before) which would also explain some of the chest discomfort.
So that was my exciting day yesterday.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
More random thoughts...
We have been enjoying down time for our family. We have been enjoying camping with friends and taking in tourist attractions -- Science Center and local rodeo. We have one more camping trip -- well sort of camping trip at my SIL's this weekend. Then I think we will be staying home more.
A wonderful thing happened this weekend. While Wes and the kids were at the rodeo they joined up with Wes's brother and family. Now for over a year now, we have been estranged from them. They shunned us and we had no idea why and we still don't. But the great thing is that they had a wonderful visit and it looks like we will be able to restart our relationship with them. They have invited us up to their house for a visit and we received an invitation in mail to attend their youngest sons birthday next weekend. This is such a relief to me. It has really bothered Wes and I that things were not ok with them but it looks like there is hope there now. Thank you Lord.
More good news. My cousin and his wife have been trying to have a baby for years now. This year they decided to try invitro and last week I got the phone call it was successful. YAY! The first few months are fragile so I am praying that all goes well. I think a baby will be a saving grace for my cousin. He is a guy with no purpose in his life and I think a little one will make his world more full. I think the due date is in February.
On a more somber note... it seems like the world is collapsing around us lately (with the exception of the last two pieces of good news posted above). Marriages quickly falling apart, marriages struggling, health declining quickly, friendships scarred and struggling, trusts broken, church walking away from God's ways, struggling to be patient in so many matters... and so it goes. On Sunday Wes and I were really struggling and feeling overwhelmed with life. It felt like the kind of day you just want to go and hide under a rock and pretend the world doesn't exist. Luckily we don't stay feeling discouraged very long but sometimes ya just need to take the time to feel that way and then move on. I wish there was some way to make the world a better place. To help those who struggle so deeply.
A wonderful thing happened this weekend. While Wes and the kids were at the rodeo they joined up with Wes's brother and family. Now for over a year now, we have been estranged from them. They shunned us and we had no idea why and we still don't. But the great thing is that they had a wonderful visit and it looks like we will be able to restart our relationship with them. They have invited us up to their house for a visit and we received an invitation in mail to attend their youngest sons birthday next weekend. This is such a relief to me. It has really bothered Wes and I that things were not ok with them but it looks like there is hope there now. Thank you Lord.
More good news. My cousin and his wife have been trying to have a baby for years now. This year they decided to try invitro and last week I got the phone call it was successful. YAY! The first few months are fragile so I am praying that all goes well. I think a baby will be a saving grace for my cousin. He is a guy with no purpose in his life and I think a little one will make his world more full. I think the due date is in February.
On a more somber note... it seems like the world is collapsing around us lately (with the exception of the last two pieces of good news posted above). Marriages quickly falling apart, marriages struggling, health declining quickly, friendships scarred and struggling, trusts broken, church walking away from God's ways, struggling to be patient in so many matters... and so it goes. On Sunday Wes and I were really struggling and feeling overwhelmed with life. It felt like the kind of day you just want to go and hide under a rock and pretend the world doesn't exist. Luckily we don't stay feeling discouraged very long but sometimes ya just need to take the time to feel that way and then move on. I wish there was some way to make the world a better place. To help those who struggle so deeply.
LOVING JESUS
Loving Jesus
by Megan Breedlove
Jesus DIDN'T say, "Whatever you do for the least of
these, I appreciate it." HE SAID, "Whatever you do
for the least of these, you do FOR ME" (Matthew 25:40)
I started my day early,
Before the room was light.
I lifted my son from his crib
And wished it was still night.
But as I held him close and said,
"Hi Tyler, precious one,"
I knew that as I greeted him,
I greeted too God's Son.
When my daughter woke up later
Calling, "Mommy! Mommy! Down!"
I picked her up and hugged her
In her worn Elmo nightgown.
I know she felt the closeness
That a mother's touch affords.
I welcomed not just Danielle,
But so, too, the Lord of Lords.
That day, I mixed some formula
And opened jars of peas.
I fixed some "pizza butter" bread
When she grinned and said, "Pleeeeease."
I heated up some leftovers;
I had to nuke them twice.
And when I fed my children,
I was feeding Jesus Christ.
I made some funny faces,
And "played pubzzles" on the floor.
I dressed kitties, ran around outside,
And played with them some more.
We laughed and jumped and tickled,
Making memories to be stored.
When I spent time with my children,
I spent time with my Lord.
I wiped up sticky cereal
And washed the dishes clean.
I straightened, picked up, put away,
And dusted in between.
I did six loads of laundry
And folded it like new.
When I cleaned for my children,
I cleaned for my Savior, too.
When my children were both crying,
I held them in my arms.
I cuddled them and whispered
That I'd keep them safe from harm.
I told them how their Father saved them
With His perfect Lamb.
When I comforted my children,
I comforted I Am.
Later on that evening,
I put them in the bath.
I washed their little bodies
As they kicked around and splashed.
I dried them in soft towels
And put their jammies on.
When I washed my children's feet,
I washed the Holy One.
I cooked and cleaned and rearranged,
Made beds and taught and played.
I made sure that we had food to eat
and that we often prayed.
I died to self.
I made a home from ordinary things
But when I served my children,
I served the King of Kings.
To some, I have done nothing,
But to two, I've done the world.
I made eternal differences
To my precious boy and girl
And to the One who watches over
Every pathway that I've trod.
For when I've loved my precious children,
I've loved Almighty God.
by Megan Breedlove
Jesus DIDN'T say, "Whatever you do for the least of
these, I appreciate it." HE SAID, "Whatever you do
for the least of these, you do FOR ME" (Matthew 25:40)
I started my day early,
Before the room was light.
I lifted my son from his crib
And wished it was still night.
But as I held him close and said,
"Hi Tyler, precious one,"
I knew that as I greeted him,
I greeted too God's Son.
When my daughter woke up later
Calling, "Mommy! Mommy! Down!"
I picked her up and hugged her
In her worn Elmo nightgown.
I know she felt the closeness
That a mother's touch affords.
I welcomed not just Danielle,
But so, too, the Lord of Lords.
That day, I mixed some formula
And opened jars of peas.
I fixed some "pizza butter" bread
When she grinned and said, "Pleeeeease."
I heated up some leftovers;
I had to nuke them twice.
And when I fed my children,
I was feeding Jesus Christ.
I made some funny faces,
And "played pubzzles" on the floor.
I dressed kitties, ran around outside,
And played with them some more.
We laughed and jumped and tickled,
Making memories to be stored.
When I spent time with my children,
I spent time with my Lord.
I wiped up sticky cereal
And washed the dishes clean.
I straightened, picked up, put away,
And dusted in between.
I did six loads of laundry
And folded it like new.
When I cleaned for my children,
I cleaned for my Savior, too.
When my children were both crying,
I held them in my arms.
I cuddled them and whispered
That I'd keep them safe from harm.
I told them how their Father saved them
With His perfect Lamb.
When I comforted my children,
I comforted I Am.
Later on that evening,
I put them in the bath.
I washed their little bodies
As they kicked around and splashed.
I dried them in soft towels
And put their jammies on.
When I washed my children's feet,
I washed the Holy One.
I cooked and cleaned and rearranged,
Made beds and taught and played.
I made sure that we had food to eat
and that we often prayed.
I died to self.
I made a home from ordinary things
But when I served my children,
I served the King of Kings.
To some, I have done nothing,
But to two, I've done the world.
I made eternal differences
To my precious boy and girl
And to the One who watches over
Every pathway that I've trod.
For when I've loved my precious children,
I've loved Almighty God.
The Bible
This is a quote a rediscovered yesterday in my travels...
The BIBLE is the only book whose AUTHOR is always present whenever it is read. ~Author unknown~
The BIBLE is the only book whose AUTHOR is always present whenever it is read. ~Author unknown~
Monday, June 11, 2007
random thoughts for today
Today I have been going through piles of papers trying to get ready for my year end visit with my homeschool facilitator (note to self, I really need to be more organized!). While shuffling through papers I came across this note I had written on a scrap piece of paper:
"Church became more valuable to me as I recognize the value of associating with others who put the search for God's truth and love in the forefront of their lives." ~M. Simms
I would have to say that I agree with this statement. I think that is why attending church and our weekly bible study has been important to me. It is so great to build relationships with those who have the same values and goals as I do. In this past year I have developed many great relationships with people I have been going to church with for years. What changed? I am not exactly sure it was any one thing, but I really like the change.
In our bible study we have spoken many times about making disciples as we are commanded in Matthew 28. And I have read about how one missionary does that at The M Blog. But I wonder, how do we make disciples? I have been meaning ask my minister his thoughts on this but I keep forgetting. I did do a search today and found this webpage http://www.believers.org/believe/bel220.htm and I think it does a good job of breaking it down. Here is what it says:
Making Disciples
Jesus' command for all believers is to make disciples. It is not optional.
MATTHEW 28:19-20 NKJ 19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
Like Raising Children
Making disciples is much like assuming the responsibilities of being a parent:
Until they learn to feed themselves, you make sure they are fed.
You teach them how to feed themselves as soon as possible.
If they get into trouble, you help them -- even if it is inconvenient, because they are your top priority.
You train them to do what they need to do.
You teach them what you know.
You help protect them from danger.
Mostly, you must spend time with them because people learn best by example.
Your goal is to eventually reproduce yourself -- another believer who can also stand on their own and reproduce.
Who?1) Pray for God's direction. 2) Who do you have opportunity to help? 3) Find a way to hook up with them.
Disciples are those God is entrusting to you, that He may train them though you.
How?1) Pray for God's direction. 2) Love them till they ask you why. (Romans 13:9) 3) Take someone with you. 4) Lead by example -- not by command. 5) Keep Jesus central.
Training has not been accomplished until the desired action is being practiced.
LUKE 6:40 NKJ 40 "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
Although we cannot remove the inevitable human influence, we must strive to make disciples of Jesus, and not just followers of ourselves. Train them to trust in, rely on, and follow Jesus Christ.
Made Disciples
JOHN 4:1 NKJ 1 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John
ACTS 14:21 NKJ 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,
Let Jesus Build The Church
MATTHEW 16:18 NKJ 18 "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
Beware of not seeing the trees (disciples) for seeing the forest (church). Jesus said He would build the church, but He told us to make disciples.
How do you plant a forest? You don't. You plant one tree at a time. Those trees then reproduce other trees and a forest develops.
Disciples cannot be mass-produced. Be faithful to help whoever God has given you opportunity to disciple, and Jesus will build His church.
"Church became more valuable to me as I recognize the value of associating with others who put the search for God's truth and love in the forefront of their lives." ~M. Simms
I would have to say that I agree with this statement. I think that is why attending church and our weekly bible study has been important to me. It is so great to build relationships with those who have the same values and goals as I do. In this past year I have developed many great relationships with people I have been going to church with for years. What changed? I am not exactly sure it was any one thing, but I really like the change.
In our bible study we have spoken many times about making disciples as we are commanded in Matthew 28. And I have read about how one missionary does that at The M Blog. But I wonder, how do we make disciples? I have been meaning ask my minister his thoughts on this but I keep forgetting. I did do a search today and found this webpage http://www.believers.org/believe/bel220.htm and I think it does a good job of breaking it down. Here is what it says:
Making Disciples
Jesus' command for all believers is to make disciples. It is not optional.
MATTHEW 28:19-20 NKJ 19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
Like Raising Children
Making disciples is much like assuming the responsibilities of being a parent:
Until they learn to feed themselves, you make sure they are fed.
You teach them how to feed themselves as soon as possible.
If they get into trouble, you help them -- even if it is inconvenient, because they are your top priority.
You train them to do what they need to do.
You teach them what you know.
You help protect them from danger.
Mostly, you must spend time with them because people learn best by example.
Your goal is to eventually reproduce yourself -- another believer who can also stand on their own and reproduce.
Who?1) Pray for God's direction. 2) Who do you have opportunity to help? 3) Find a way to hook up with them.
Disciples are those God is entrusting to you, that He may train them though you.
How?1) Pray for God's direction. 2) Love them till they ask you why. (Romans 13:9) 3) Take someone with you. 4) Lead by example -- not by command. 5) Keep Jesus central.
Training has not been accomplished until the desired action is being practiced.
LUKE 6:40 NKJ 40 "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
Although we cannot remove the inevitable human influence, we must strive to make disciples of Jesus, and not just followers of ourselves. Train them to trust in, rely on, and follow Jesus Christ.
Made Disciples
JOHN 4:1 NKJ 1 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John
ACTS 14:21 NKJ 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,
Let Jesus Build The Church
MATTHEW 16:18 NKJ 18 "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
Beware of not seeing the trees (disciples) for seeing the forest (church). Jesus said He would build the church, but He told us to make disciples.
How do you plant a forest? You don't. You plant one tree at a time. Those trees then reproduce other trees and a forest develops.
Disciples cannot be mass-produced. Be faithful to help whoever God has given you opportunity to disciple, and Jesus will build His church.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Close down my other blog....
I am trying to decide whether or not to close down my blog at homeschoolblogger or not. I really like the format here alot better. And if I did close it down, should I just have one blog and write about all topics (school, family, religion, etc) or should have seperate blogs for these topics? I just can't decide.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Anyone like salad recipes???
These are recipes I found while surfing around the net. Do you have any you would like to share? I want to collect different salad recipes to get more veggies and fruits into my families diet.
Rae's Tostada Salad
(For a family of 6 - smile - downsize as you wish)
2 heads greenleaf lettuce (chopped small)
1 or 2 peppers (you choose color - I liked red) cut in strips
3 cups frozen corn (thawed by pouring boiling water over and then let cool)
Toss with 1/2 bag tortilla chips
Chopped celery - opt.
Grilled chicken cut in strips - opt (but very good!)
(You could even add in grated mozza cheese or parmesan if cost and calories wasn't a problem....)
Pour Roasted Red Pepper Salad Dressing (1/4 to 1/2 cup) over and toss well. Very, very nice. Unique flavor and presentation.
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Here is another salad I want to try soon. A friend is raving about it.Spinach, walnuts and sliced pears, toppedwith chicken breast and gouda cheese. The dressing was balsamic vinaigrette.
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I love salads. I usually like to make several at the beginning of the week to put out for meals. Then, in the summer if I just cook hamburgers or something plain, the salads dress up every meal.
One I make often is just tossed lettuce, green onion, almonds, sunflower seeds and canned mandarin oranges, drained. The dressing is 1/2 oil, 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 sugar, 3 tbsp. poppy seeds.
I also often make bean salad with green and yellow beans (I usually use canned), garbanzo beans, kidney beans, onion and parsley. The dressing is 1/2 cup oil, 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 tsp dry mustard, 1/2 tsp basil, 1 tsp salt.
Wow, this website -- www.gotquestions.org -- is a really informative and thought provoking site. I can see that I will be spending a bit of time looking things over here.
SOURCE: http://www.gotquestions.org/home-church.html
Question: "Is a home church a true Biblical church?"
Answer: Churches in the New Testament era were indeed small assemblies that met in homes. So, the practice is certainly biblically allowable. There also seem to be some good reasons to have house churches as opposed to large gatherings: greater intimacy, stronger relationships, more comfortable worship, single mindedness, etc. The fact that large churches usually have their own home groups speaks to this fact. Several considerations should be made, however, concerning the reason for doing so.
First, the fact that first century Christians did something does not establish it as a pattern for all generations to follow (unless there is also a clear command to do so elsewhere). Simply because Scripture records an event or practice that does not, of itself, establish a command (nor, in some cases, even approval!). So, for example, the fact that early Christians often sold all they owned and shared the profits among other believers does not mean that we must do so today (although it certainly would be acceptable). So we should not think that home churches are any more "biblical" in this sense.
Second, there was a perfectly practical reason for meeting in homes. Where else would they meet? There were no church buildings, YMCA's, grammar schools, or even movie theaters that could hold large groups. Further, even if there was room somewhere, in a time of persecution a public gathering of hundreds or thousands of people would simply not be safe. Thus, it might not have been by design that the early church met in small groups. It is even possible that they would have preferred large meetings (as Jews would have been accustomed to), but they simply could not pull it off. So we should also not think that home churches are any more "spiritual" than large churches either.
Third, home churches that are started in an effort to counter "the institutional church" are rather suspicious. While often listing the above reasons to appear more biblical, the real reason often seems to be displeasure with large church movements. While these complaints are often valid, it can lead to an egalitarian "us vs. them" mentality that should be avoided.
In addition to the above considerations regarding motive, one final caution concerns the issue of accountability. For Protestant churches the Bible alone is the final court of decision in matters of faith and practice. This is fine, but the fact is that few people have the time to gain the skills and knowledge to accurately handle the word of God (2 Tim. 3:14-16). In classical education theology was taught last - for it builds on many other disciplines that cannot be learned from the Bible alone. Therefore, some degree of higher education was usually sought before one becomes a teacher of the word (James 3:1). The popular view today, however, is that the Holy Spirit teaches believers directly through the Bible. This idea might lead people to believe that whatever the group teaches is from God and is therefore safe from error. But the Bible does not teach that this is the case, and it is clear that most believers disagree on at least some issues, and most simply end up "interpreting" the Bible according to their churches' teaching anyway.
The answer to the interpretation issue requires another article, but the problem it creates becomes more ominous when dealing with home churches. The New Testament is full of warnings against heresies coming from within the church. Since it was written in the first century, these would actually be warnings regarding house churches. While this problem is certainly not limited to house churches, there is clearly no guarantee of protection from false teaching simply because the church changes its meeting format. Further, because home churches function as independent small groups, they need have no accountability to anyone but themselves. This makes it much more difficult to judge their teachings (in fact, the Jehovah's Witnesses cult began in exactly this manner).
In conclusion, there is nothing unbiblical about Christians gathering together regularly in houses, or large buildings, or any other appropriate venue. The Bible does not, in fact, give any guidelines as to the proper gathering size or location. What it does do is explain what is to take place at those meetings (Heb. 10; Col. 3; etc.). So long as biblical teachings (orthodoxy) and practices (orthopraxy) are undertaken by those in assembly, it really does not matter what meeting format one chooses.Recommended Resource: The Church: Why Bother? by Philip Yancey.
Question: "Is a home church a true Biblical church?"
Answer: Churches in the New Testament era were indeed small assemblies that met in homes. So, the practice is certainly biblically allowable. There also seem to be some good reasons to have house churches as opposed to large gatherings: greater intimacy, stronger relationships, more comfortable worship, single mindedness, etc. The fact that large churches usually have their own home groups speaks to this fact. Several considerations should be made, however, concerning the reason for doing so.
First, the fact that first century Christians did something does not establish it as a pattern for all generations to follow (unless there is also a clear command to do so elsewhere). Simply because Scripture records an event or practice that does not, of itself, establish a command (nor, in some cases, even approval!). So, for example, the fact that early Christians often sold all they owned and shared the profits among other believers does not mean that we must do so today (although it certainly would be acceptable). So we should not think that home churches are any more "biblical" in this sense.
Second, there was a perfectly practical reason for meeting in homes. Where else would they meet? There were no church buildings, YMCA's, grammar schools, or even movie theaters that could hold large groups. Further, even if there was room somewhere, in a time of persecution a public gathering of hundreds or thousands of people would simply not be safe. Thus, it might not have been by design that the early church met in small groups. It is even possible that they would have preferred large meetings (as Jews would have been accustomed to), but they simply could not pull it off. So we should also not think that home churches are any more "spiritual" than large churches either.
Third, home churches that are started in an effort to counter "the institutional church" are rather suspicious. While often listing the above reasons to appear more biblical, the real reason often seems to be displeasure with large church movements. While these complaints are often valid, it can lead to an egalitarian "us vs. them" mentality that should be avoided.
In addition to the above considerations regarding motive, one final caution concerns the issue of accountability. For Protestant churches the Bible alone is the final court of decision in matters of faith and practice. This is fine, but the fact is that few people have the time to gain the skills and knowledge to accurately handle the word of God (2 Tim. 3:14-16). In classical education theology was taught last - for it builds on many other disciplines that cannot be learned from the Bible alone. Therefore, some degree of higher education was usually sought before one becomes a teacher of the word (James 3:1). The popular view today, however, is that the Holy Spirit teaches believers directly through the Bible. This idea might lead people to believe that whatever the group teaches is from God and is therefore safe from error. But the Bible does not teach that this is the case, and it is clear that most believers disagree on at least some issues, and most simply end up "interpreting" the Bible according to their churches' teaching anyway.
The answer to the interpretation issue requires another article, but the problem it creates becomes more ominous when dealing with home churches. The New Testament is full of warnings against heresies coming from within the church. Since it was written in the first century, these would actually be warnings regarding house churches. While this problem is certainly not limited to house churches, there is clearly no guarantee of protection from false teaching simply because the church changes its meeting format. Further, because home churches function as independent small groups, they need have no accountability to anyone but themselves. This makes it much more difficult to judge their teachings (in fact, the Jehovah's Witnesses cult began in exactly this manner).
In conclusion, there is nothing unbiblical about Christians gathering together regularly in houses, or large buildings, or any other appropriate venue. The Bible does not, in fact, give any guidelines as to the proper gathering size or location. What it does do is explain what is to take place at those meetings (Heb. 10; Col. 3; etc.). So long as biblical teachings (orthodoxy) and practices (orthopraxy) are undertaken by those in assembly, it really does not matter what meeting format one chooses.Recommended Resource: The Church: Why Bother? by Philip Yancey.
I FOUND ONE ANSWER...
SOURCE: http://www.gotquestions.org/purpose-church.html
Question: "What is the purpose of the church?"
Answer: Acts 2:42 could be considered a purpose statement for the church, “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” So, according to this Scripture, the purposes / activities of the church should be: (1) teaching Biblical doctrine, (2) providing a place of fellowship for believers, (3) observing the Lord’s supper, and (4) praying.
The church is to teach Biblical doctrine so we can be grounded in our faith. Ephesians 4:14 tells us, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.” The church is to be a place of fellowship, where Christians can be devoted to one another and honor one another (Romans 12:10), instruct one another (Romans 15:14), be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32), encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and most importantly love one another (1 John 3:11).
The church is to be a place where believers can observe the Lord’s supper, remembering Christ’s death and shed blood on our behalf (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The concept of “breaking bread” (Acts 2:42) also carries the idea of having meals together. This is another example of the church promoting fellowship. The final purpose of the church according to Acts 2:42 is prayer. The church is to be a place that promotes prayer, teaches prayer, and practices prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Another “commission” given to the church is proclaiming the Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8). The church is called to be faithful in sharing the Gospel through word and deed. The church is to be a “lighthouse” in the community – pointing people towards our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The church is to both promote the Gospel and prepare its members to proclaim the Gospel (1 Peter 3:15).
Some final purposes of the church are given in James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” The church is to be about the business of ministering to those who are in need. This includes not only sharing the Gospel, but also providing for physical needs (food, clothing, shelter) as necessary and appropriate. The church is also to equip believers in Christ with the tools they need to overcome sin and remain free from the pollution of the world. This is done by the principles given above – Biblical teaching and Christian fellowship.
So, with all that said, what is the purpose of the church? I like the illustration in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. The church is God’s “body” – we are His hands, mouth, and feet in this world. We are to be doing the things that Jesus Christ would do if He were here physically on the earth. The church is to be “Christian” – “Christ-like” and Christ-following.
Recommended Resource: The Church: Why Bother? by Philip Yancey.
Question: "What is the purpose of the church?"
Answer: Acts 2:42 could be considered a purpose statement for the church, “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” So, according to this Scripture, the purposes / activities of the church should be: (1) teaching Biblical doctrine, (2) providing a place of fellowship for believers, (3) observing the Lord’s supper, and (4) praying.
The church is to teach Biblical doctrine so we can be grounded in our faith. Ephesians 4:14 tells us, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.” The church is to be a place of fellowship, where Christians can be devoted to one another and honor one another (Romans 12:10), instruct one another (Romans 15:14), be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32), encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and most importantly love one another (1 John 3:11).
The church is to be a place where believers can observe the Lord’s supper, remembering Christ’s death and shed blood on our behalf (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The concept of “breaking bread” (Acts 2:42) also carries the idea of having meals together. This is another example of the church promoting fellowship. The final purpose of the church according to Acts 2:42 is prayer. The church is to be a place that promotes prayer, teaches prayer, and practices prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Another “commission” given to the church is proclaiming the Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8). The church is called to be faithful in sharing the Gospel through word and deed. The church is to be a “lighthouse” in the community – pointing people towards our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The church is to both promote the Gospel and prepare its members to proclaim the Gospel (1 Peter 3:15).
Some final purposes of the church are given in James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” The church is to be about the business of ministering to those who are in need. This includes not only sharing the Gospel, but also providing for physical needs (food, clothing, shelter) as necessary and appropriate. The church is also to equip believers in Christ with the tools they need to overcome sin and remain free from the pollution of the world. This is done by the principles given above – Biblical teaching and Christian fellowship.
So, with all that said, what is the purpose of the church? I like the illustration in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. The church is God’s “body” – we are His hands, mouth, and feet in this world. We are to be doing the things that Jesus Christ would do if He were here physically on the earth. The church is to be “Christian” – “Christ-like” and Christ-following.
Recommended Resource: The Church: Why Bother? by Philip Yancey.
QUESTION: What is the purpose of the modern day "organized" church? When did they begin, why did they begin? Should we continue with them?
I have been continuing to read about simple church/home church and I have to tell you it sounds really appealing. I love the simplicity of it. I love the relationship building it allows. I love the way it feels more natural to what I percieve God wants from his children here on earth.
I guess belonging to a "organized" church allows for accountability to what is being taught. Otherwise we might have some cultish type movements because we fallen and sinful humans are really good at wrecking things. As I mentioned before anything we do here on earth is just a imperfect means of trying to accomplish God's work and we will never get it perfect. So maybe with that thought we should/I should just keep doing what I am doing, attending my local church and doing what I can within its "spiritual" walls.
Sometimes I really wish that God would have laid it all out in black and white so that there wouldn't be so many areas for His people to mess things up, so that we could be all be united as one for God. I struggled for many years when I was a teen and in my 20's that there couldn't be all these churches (denominations), that only ONE of them could be right. But how does a person find the RIGHT one. An impossible task I tell you! But as I have become older and hopefully wiser, I do realize that having these many different denominations adds flavor to the christian world. How boring would it be if we were all the same. So I gave up on trying to find the perfect/right church and settled where I am now. Actually I really felt called to be where I am now. We attend a Lutheran church in our small town. Please be aware that I have always said I ATTEND a Lutheran church but I do not consider myself a Lutheran. I am a Christian and I feel that I could attend a great variety of denominations.
I had a great spiritual 'awakening' back in 1999 and spent much time studying God's ways. It is fun to go back and read my journals from back then. But sometime after that I fell asleep in my spiritual life, just happy with the status quo and happily living in my rut. This past year though I have been woken up once again and it is great. I feel restless in my spiritual life and my walk with God, which would be why I am looking at simple churches and questioning my own church. I am a person who likes change and likes to question they way things are. I am interested to see where God will lead in the next little while.
Well I am off to do more research and web surfing. Be back soon, hopefully.
QUOTE FROM MOTHER TERESA
"Wherever God has put you, that is your vocation. It is not what we do but how much love we put into it." ~Mother Teresa~
Friday, May 18, 2007
This came to my inbox today and I had to share...
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 a. M., when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation.I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised, and asked him, "And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?"He smiled as he patted my hand and said, "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is."I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, "That is the kind of love I want in my life.
"True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be."
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there are some that come along that have an important message, and this is one of those kind.Oh, by the way, peace is seeing a sunset and knowing who to thank.The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. (Amen to that!)Please share this with someone you care about
"True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be."
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there are some that come along that have an important message, and this is one of those kind.Oh, by the way, peace is seeing a sunset and knowing who to thank.The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. (Amen to that!)Please share this with someone you care about
Blogs and Websites that I have been visiting
Here are some blogs and websites that I have been reading the last few days or so.
http://guymuse.blogspot.com/ A missionary in Ecuador, planting churches. I am really enjoying reading about his work there and learning a lot. I am in the process of reading all his entries in order.
http://homeschoolblogger.com/foreigner This blog is written by the wife of the above missionary.
http://air-support.blogspot.com/ I found this blog from the first one through the comments section. I just found it today and I am reading about his church planting journey in the States.
These are some sites I was surfing yesterday while I was researching HOUSE CHURCHES.
A new day, A new blog
Good day,
This will the second blog in my world. I have one for homeschooling but I wanted a seperate one to write out my thoughts on various matters. Right now all my thoughts are whirling around about churches, traditional churches, house churches, etc. What should a church look like, act like, etc.
These are just a couple of notes I have written down from today's wandering through blog surfing and reading.
~ Modern day churches and denominations are a human methodology - an imperfect means to do what God has called us to do.
~ Are we making disciples?
~ BAPTISM is an initial act of worship that identifies one as a Christ follower. It is the first step of obedience and the beginning point of a new believers dicipleship.
Just notes for now. Random thoughts.
Pamela
This will the second blog in my world. I have one for homeschooling but I wanted a seperate one to write out my thoughts on various matters. Right now all my thoughts are whirling around about churches, traditional churches, house churches, etc. What should a church look like, act like, etc.
These are just a couple of notes I have written down from today's wandering through blog surfing and reading.
~ Modern day churches and denominations are a human methodology - an imperfect means to do what God has called us to do.
~ Are we making disciples?
~ BAPTISM is an initial act of worship that identifies one as a Christ follower. It is the first step of obedience and the beginning point of a new believers dicipleship.
Just notes for now. Random thoughts.
Pamela
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