Today is the last day of November. Today I am thankful for sleep. Last night I hit the pillow at 10:30 and I didn't hear a thing until 5:50am. Hallelujah!
Sleep is refreshing. Sleep somehow, sometimes allows me to "sleep off" a wound. I wake the next day and don't feel the pain quite so much. Sleep also sometimes allows a person to solve a problem overnight. It is amazing that you are asleep, but your brain keeps on working.
Sleep. Just another one of God's little miracles.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
30 days, day 29
Today I am thankful for love. There are many things that can be said about love. I am thankful that I love cars. I am thankful for the love that I have for you. I am thankful for the love shared with my wife. I am thankful for the love of God.
The amazing thing about love is that it becomes more than a feeling over time. It becomes this thing that resonates inside of our hearts that points us in the direction of good. Because I love you, I want the best for you. I don't want you to hurt. I want you to be filled with joy. I want you to walk with God.
Because of the love that I have in my heart, I would never hate you. I would never go to your country and shoot you in your hotels. I would never want to do anything that would bring pain or grief into the lives of others.
I find it so difficult to understand the actions of people that do bad things, killing and terrorizing innocent people. It is hard to understand until I see that there is something that we have that they do not. Love. This amazing thing that God places in our hearts. God is in fact, love. When he lives in our hearts, love lives in our hearts. We still have a lot of work to do to teach others about love. There is still a great need in the world.
Go love someone today.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
The amazing thing about love is that it becomes more than a feeling over time. It becomes this thing that resonates inside of our hearts that points us in the direction of good. Because I love you, I want the best for you. I don't want you to hurt. I want you to be filled with joy. I want you to walk with God.
Because of the love that I have in my heart, I would never hate you. I would never go to your country and shoot you in your hotels. I would never want to do anything that would bring pain or grief into the lives of others.
I find it so difficult to understand the actions of people that do bad things, killing and terrorizing innocent people. It is hard to understand until I see that there is something that we have that they do not. Love. This amazing thing that God places in our hearts. God is in fact, love. When he lives in our hearts, love lives in our hearts. We still have a lot of work to do to teach others about love. There is still a great need in the world.
Go love someone today.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, November 28, 2008
30 days, day 28
I am thankful today, for random acts of kindness. bell ringing for the salvation army. Feeding the hungry. Helping the poor. Hugging the hurting. Visiting the lonely. I hope that you find something to do today that is just good for goodness sake. Go bless someone!
I am never so alive as when I am doing something to help someone else.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to do the good.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
30 days, day 27
Today is Thanksgiving day! What a wonderful day. Thanksgiving may be the cleanest of our holidays, as it is not obscured by much commercialism. Thanksgiving is just about gratitude.
Today I am thankful for gratitude. For being thankful. For the joy and perspective that comes to a life when a person comes to understand that we are dependent upon and blessed by Almighty God.
How much joy I feel when I am thankful! How excited I am about life! Every moment that I am grateful, I am less concerned with my problems and I am overtaken with joy. We have so much to be thankful for. Do you see it? Let us give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good!
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today I am thankful for gratitude. For being thankful. For the joy and perspective that comes to a life when a person comes to understand that we are dependent upon and blessed by Almighty God.
How much joy I feel when I am thankful! How excited I am about life! Every moment that I am grateful, I am less concerned with my problems and I am overtaken with joy. We have so much to be thankful for. Do you see it? Let us give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good!
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
30 days, day 26
Today I am thankful for the marvel of modern medicine. I am thankful that God has given to doctors the knowledge to help the body heal.
100 years ago, you would get sick and die, and no one really even knew what the cause was. 50 years ago, there may have been a diagnosis, but little treatment as we know it today.
Today we have regular checkups, x-ray, mri, mammograms, and tons of other tests that help to catch diseases in their early stages. Many of our friends and loved ones are alive today because of regular check ups and testing.
Treatments are also greatly improved. New drugs are out on the market, new pain relievers, asthma drugs have helped my wife, nexium was a big help to me personally.
We take so much of this for granted, but not every country around the world has such benefits.
Today I thank God for doctors, nurses, dentists, and what has been learned over the years. The wisdom of God, improving care to his children and alleviating suffering.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
100 years ago, you would get sick and die, and no one really even knew what the cause was. 50 years ago, there may have been a diagnosis, but little treatment as we know it today.
Today we have regular checkups, x-ray, mri, mammograms, and tons of other tests that help to catch diseases in their early stages. Many of our friends and loved ones are alive today because of regular check ups and testing.
Treatments are also greatly improved. New drugs are out on the market, new pain relievers, asthma drugs have helped my wife, nexium was a big help to me personally.
We take so much of this for granted, but not every country around the world has such benefits.
Today I thank God for doctors, nurses, dentists, and what has been learned over the years. The wisdom of God, improving care to his children and alleviating suffering.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
30 days, day 25
Today I am thankful for our church staff. Actually, I am thankful for them every single day. Over the years, you have assembled a wonderful group of people that work very hard to help us fulfill our mission of connecting people to Jesus Christ. Find one of them this week and say "thanks!"
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, November 24, 2008
30 days, day 24
We are giving thanks for something, every day for 30 days. Today I am thankful for hope. During a period of time when all of the news is bad, we have hope. We have hope because we have a Savior in Jesus Christ, and the church is the hope of the world.
While everyone else may be sitting around right now wondering how bad things are going to get, it is time for the church to understand it's role in all of this. We are the brokers of hope. We have something to offer the community. There are things that we can do, and we need to think a little harder about doing them. Here are some things that are on my mind.
1. We already have a career placement ministry. If you have a friend that is out of work, have them contact the church about this program. We can also set up a bulletin board where those who have work or know of work, can interface with those who need work.
2. We have bankers and mortgage people in our church who would be glad to visit with someone who is up against it in their home loan. Maybe there is some advice that a professional could give that the homeowner has not thought of yet.
3. We have financial advisers in our church. People that work with money for a living. I know of several who would meet with anyone in need to try and help them understand what has happened and what their best course of action might be. I have already heard from some of these folks and they would do this with no intent to sell anything, and totally free of charge.
4. Clothing the needy. We are already pretty good at this, but if we need more racks for clothes in the missions building, then lets get them. If we need to open a clothes closet 5 days a week, then I think we can do that. I think that there are lots of clothes in our closets that could better serve the backs of those who can no longer go to the mall. [Remember, I am just talking at this point, please do not bring any clothes to the missions building except those which the missions dept is asking for.]
5. Feeding the hungry. If our food pantry needs to expand, then it can. If we have to move our exercise classes again, I hate to inconvenience them, but maybe we should buy Everett's and move the exercise classes over there. At any rate, if we need to collect and distribute more food, I think that we can figure out how to do that. Also, I have been thinking about a "three feed one" program. If you have a neighbor that can no longer feed their family, then I think the church can take them on. Three families will take the responsibility to personally feed them. The Smith's the Jones's and the Bartman's will agree to work out an arrangement to bring groceries every week until things get better for the family in need.
6. We have FPU. Financial Peace University. This 13 week program has helped over 200 families in our church and community come to a better understanding of debt, savings, and spending. It has taught Christian principles of money management. It has blessed many families, and helped many marriages. Call for more information.
7. Activities. There was a day that the church was the center of the community and the center of activities. If local families can no longer afford to be in basketball and baseball leagues, the church is ready to step in to help. We already have many wonderful activities for children and youth, but if we need more, we can bring more, and the church is more than ready to return to a role of being the center of community activity.
8. Pastoral Care. We have an awesome team and we have excellent Stephen Ministers. If you have a friend who needs someone to talk to about spiritual issues, we are ready.
Hope. We are a place of hope. We are a part of the solution. The government may be able to help with some of this, but we are here, and we know of the immediate needs around us. When called upon by circumstances, we will be prepared to act. If you know of someone who is afraid, invite them to your church, invite them to become a part of the solution.
Jesus is still the answer, and he does some amazing things through those who follow him. I am thankful that even in dark times, no, especially in dark times, we have hope.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
While everyone else may be sitting around right now wondering how bad things are going to get, it is time for the church to understand it's role in all of this. We are the brokers of hope. We have something to offer the community. There are things that we can do, and we need to think a little harder about doing them. Here are some things that are on my mind.
1. We already have a career placement ministry. If you have a friend that is out of work, have them contact the church about this program. We can also set up a bulletin board where those who have work or know of work, can interface with those who need work.
2. We have bankers and mortgage people in our church who would be glad to visit with someone who is up against it in their home loan. Maybe there is some advice that a professional could give that the homeowner has not thought of yet.
3. We have financial advisers in our church. People that work with money for a living. I know of several who would meet with anyone in need to try and help them understand what has happened and what their best course of action might be. I have already heard from some of these folks and they would do this with no intent to sell anything, and totally free of charge.
4. Clothing the needy. We are already pretty good at this, but if we need more racks for clothes in the missions building, then lets get them. If we need to open a clothes closet 5 days a week, then I think we can do that. I think that there are lots of clothes in our closets that could better serve the backs of those who can no longer go to the mall. [Remember, I am just talking at this point, please do not bring any clothes to the missions building except those which the missions dept is asking for.]
5. Feeding the hungry. If our food pantry needs to expand, then it can. If we have to move our exercise classes again, I hate to inconvenience them, but maybe we should buy Everett's and move the exercise classes over there. At any rate, if we need to collect and distribute more food, I think that we can figure out how to do that. Also, I have been thinking about a "three feed one" program. If you have a neighbor that can no longer feed their family, then I think the church can take them on. Three families will take the responsibility to personally feed them. The Smith's the Jones's and the Bartman's will agree to work out an arrangement to bring groceries every week until things get better for the family in need.
6. We have FPU. Financial Peace University. This 13 week program has helped over 200 families in our church and community come to a better understanding of debt, savings, and spending. It has taught Christian principles of money management. It has blessed many families, and helped many marriages. Call for more information.
7. Activities. There was a day that the church was the center of the community and the center of activities. If local families can no longer afford to be in basketball and baseball leagues, the church is ready to step in to help. We already have many wonderful activities for children and youth, but if we need more, we can bring more, and the church is more than ready to return to a role of being the center of community activity.
8. Pastoral Care. We have an awesome team and we have excellent Stephen Ministers. If you have a friend who needs someone to talk to about spiritual issues, we are ready.
Hope. We are a place of hope. We are a part of the solution. The government may be able to help with some of this, but we are here, and we know of the immediate needs around us. When called upon by circumstances, we will be prepared to act. If you know of someone who is afraid, invite them to your church, invite them to become a part of the solution.
Jesus is still the answer, and he does some amazing things through those who follow him. I am thankful that even in dark times, no, especially in dark times, we have hope.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
30 days, day 23
Today I am thankful for the deer that sometimes greet me on the way into church. They are beautiful. They watch me and I watch them. They are suspicious of me, and I don't want them eating the church's tulips.
On the subject of animals, there are some amazing ones. Cats and dogs. Pigeons that are making their home on our roof. Hawks near the church that float in the air looking for field mice. Sparrows and robins and bluebirds. Whales, sharks, zebras, giraffes. Wildebeests, tigers, wild boars. Horses, cows, and sheep.
All of the animal kingdom speaks of God's greatness in creation. I am thankful for the deer that greeted me on the way into church today. I am thankful for it all.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
On the subject of animals, there are some amazing ones. Cats and dogs. Pigeons that are making their home on our roof. Hawks near the church that float in the air looking for field mice. Sparrows and robins and bluebirds. Whales, sharks, zebras, giraffes. Wildebeests, tigers, wild boars. Horses, cows, and sheep.
All of the animal kingdom speaks of God's greatness in creation. I am thankful for the deer that greeted me on the way into church today. I am thankful for it all.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
30 days, day 22
Today I am thankful for breath. Daily breath. When we stop having daily breath, we are done on this earth. Breathing is an involuntary bodily function. It happens without you thinking about it. Look at yourself, you have been awake this morning for a couple of hours. Have you once, this morning, thought about breathing? It just happens automatically.
Now, when you are really sick, like if you have bronchitis or pneumonia, we tend to think more about breathing and we wish that we doing better at it. If you have COPD or some other lung disease, you certainly think about breathing more. People that are on oxygen all the time I promise you, they are thinking about breathing.
We should not take breathing for granted. It is a gift from God. It is another one of His little miracles.
Take a deep breath or two. Right now. Think about those breaths and how they nourish your body. Then give thanks to God for His daily sustenance.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Now, when you are really sick, like if you have bronchitis or pneumonia, we tend to think more about breathing and we wish that we doing better at it. If you have COPD or some other lung disease, you certainly think about breathing more. People that are on oxygen all the time I promise you, they are thinking about breathing.
We should not take breathing for granted. It is a gift from God. It is another one of His little miracles.
Take a deep breath or two. Right now. Think about those breaths and how they nourish your body. Then give thanks to God for His daily sustenance.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, November 21, 2008
30 days, day 21
Today I am thankful for something simple. Food. I am not going to feel guilty about being thankful for that. Ok, it is a simple thought in some ways. I am spoiled. I get to eat three meals a day. Thanksgiving is coming, and I will most likely enjoy the usual feast of turkey, dressing, potatoes, on and on. My wife is a good cook. All the kids are happy when Mom cooks because she is good at it.
I know that some people don't get to eat three meals a day. When I visited Russia, I met people who woke up in the morning and were not sure what they were going to eat that day. I am glad that our country helps feed the poor around the world, and I am glad that our church helps to feed the needy in our community. By being thankful for food, I do not mean to disrespect the needy, those who don't have such food, but maybe the fact that I know that not everyone has food, I know it is a blessing and I am thankful for it.
I am thankful for Tuna Sandwiches, vegetable soup, pecan pie, burger king burgers, pizza, pork roast, raisin bran, eggs and sausage, fruit, asparagus, green beans, the Panda Cafe, tacos, fajitas, peanuts, hotdogs, bratwurst, cobb salad, spaghetti, meatballs, ham n cheese, on and on. Waffles, pancakes, shepherds pie, strawberry short cake, ice cream, steak, mushrooms, rice and beans, bean soup, chili, ...............
See how much we have to be thankful for. We are blessed. Thank you God! I am aware. I know that we have so much. May we never forget how blessed we are.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I know that some people don't get to eat three meals a day. When I visited Russia, I met people who woke up in the morning and were not sure what they were going to eat that day. I am glad that our country helps feed the poor around the world, and I am glad that our church helps to feed the needy in our community. By being thankful for food, I do not mean to disrespect the needy, those who don't have such food, but maybe the fact that I know that not everyone has food, I know it is a blessing and I am thankful for it.
I am thankful for Tuna Sandwiches, vegetable soup, pecan pie, burger king burgers, pizza, pork roast, raisin bran, eggs and sausage, fruit, asparagus, green beans, the Panda Cafe, tacos, fajitas, peanuts, hotdogs, bratwurst, cobb salad, spaghetti, meatballs, ham n cheese, on and on. Waffles, pancakes, shepherds pie, strawberry short cake, ice cream, steak, mushrooms, rice and beans, bean soup, chili, ...............
See how much we have to be thankful for. We are blessed. Thank you God! I am aware. I know that we have so much. May we never forget how blessed we are.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
30 days, day 20
How is your list? Are you having trouble coming up with something different every day to be thankful for? Or is it pretty easy for you?
Today, I am thankful for those who see the world differently than I do. For example, I hear that some of the Christian book stores may be taking the book "the Shack" off of the shelves. I am sorry to hear that, I don't agree with that, and I think they are looking at the wrong things. However, they are entitled to their opinion.
All around you are people who disagree with you and with me. Different ideas on politics, religion and on raising children. Different ideas on the past, the future, and on reality in general.
Sometimes we may feel annoyed by those who are different than we are. But can you imagine a world where everyone agreed with you all the time? What would that be like?
I think there is something good, something whole, something right about getting along in the same world with those who are different from you. We never learn if everyone agrees with us. It takes all kinds to make a world, and Jesus loves them all, including you and me.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, what are you thankful for?
Today, I am thankful for those who see the world differently than I do. For example, I hear that some of the Christian book stores may be taking the book "the Shack" off of the shelves. I am sorry to hear that, I don't agree with that, and I think they are looking at the wrong things. However, they are entitled to their opinion.
All around you are people who disagree with you and with me. Different ideas on politics, religion and on raising children. Different ideas on the past, the future, and on reality in general.
Sometimes we may feel annoyed by those who are different than we are. But can you imagine a world where everyone agreed with you all the time? What would that be like?
I think there is something good, something whole, something right about getting along in the same world with those who are different from you. We never learn if everyone agrees with us. It takes all kinds to make a world, and Jesus loves them all, including you and me.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, what are you thankful for?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
30 days, day 19
Today I am thankful for faith in God. Where would we be without it? Ever since Sunday night's gospel choir concert, I have had these words stuck in my head:
Lord I’m Trusting
Chorus 1:(Lord it’s in You), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(Lord it’s in You), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(Lord it’s in You), Lord I’m trusting,
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Chorus 2:(The road may be rough), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(The road may be rough), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(And the going may be tough), Lord I’m trusting,
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Verse 1:Tis so sweet to trust in You, Jesus,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Oh just to take You at Your word,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Chorus 1
Verse 2:How I prove Him over and over,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Oh for grace to trust Him a little more,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Chorus 2
Bridge 1:
Tenors:I’m trusting in You Lord,I’m trusting in You.
I’m trusting in You Lord,I’m trusting in You.
Altos/Sopranos:Lord, I’m trusting.
Bridge 2:(I will) trust in the Lord,I will trust in the Lord.
I will trust in the Lord until I die.
(I will) trust in the Lord,I will trust in the Lord.
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Vamp:I’m trusting in You, Lord.
Ending:I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Dear friends, I am telling you that the words of that song are still reverberating in my heart. What happened in our sanctuary when the choir was singing that song was not much short of a miracle. I don't know that I have witnessed such genuine electricity in worship in my life, and I have been around for a long time. Even now as I remember this moment in my mind, at 5:30 in the morning, my eyes are filling up.
I am thankful for faith and trust in God. Especially in these days, it is more important than ever.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
P.S. come join the gospel choir, it will be very good for your soul.
Lord I’m Trusting
Chorus 1:(Lord it’s in You), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(Lord it’s in You), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(Lord it’s in You), Lord I’m trusting,
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Chorus 2:(The road may be rough), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(The road may be rough), oh Lord I’m trusting.
(And the going may be tough), Lord I’m trusting,
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Verse 1:Tis so sweet to trust in You, Jesus,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Oh just to take You at Your word,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Chorus 1
Verse 2:How I prove Him over and over,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Oh for grace to trust Him a little more,
(I’m trusting in You, Lord, I’m trusting in You).
Chorus 2
Bridge 1:
Tenors:I’m trusting in You Lord,I’m trusting in You.
I’m trusting in You Lord,I’m trusting in You.
Altos/Sopranos:Lord, I’m trusting.
Bridge 2:(I will) trust in the Lord,I will trust in the Lord.
I will trust in the Lord until I die.
(I will) trust in the Lord,I will trust in the Lord.
I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Vamp:I’m trusting in You, Lord.
Ending:I’m trusting in You, Lord to see me through.
Dear friends, I am telling you that the words of that song are still reverberating in my heart. What happened in our sanctuary when the choir was singing that song was not much short of a miracle. I don't know that I have witnessed such genuine electricity in worship in my life, and I have been around for a long time. Even now as I remember this moment in my mind, at 5:30 in the morning, my eyes are filling up.
I am thankful for faith and trust in God. Especially in these days, it is more important than ever.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
P.S. come join the gospel choir, it will be very good for your soul.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
30 days, day 18
Today, I am thankful for problems. That is probably a good thing, because there are a few lurking around. A vandalized church bus, marriages in trouble [not mine, I don't think], financial woes, worried folks.
I am thankful for problems. Problems make me appreciate life. They make me feel happy when I don't have any problems. Like you know, the best thing about being sick is that you stop taking being well for granted.
Problems give me a challenge to overcome. They keep me from being bored.
Problems remind me that I am not God. Life is not always a rose garden, but it still is good. That is the whole point, seeing the good means the most when problems rear their ugly heads.
Facing problems gives me a feeling of life accomplishment that I would not otherwise have if I had no problems to overcome.
Are you facing some problems? Thank God, we are going to grow and learn. We are not going to be bored! We are going to achieve a sense of accomplishment. It is a good day!
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I am thankful for problems. Problems make me appreciate life. They make me feel happy when I don't have any problems. Like you know, the best thing about being sick is that you stop taking being well for granted.
Problems give me a challenge to overcome. They keep me from being bored.
Problems remind me that I am not God. Life is not always a rose garden, but it still is good. That is the whole point, seeing the good means the most when problems rear their ugly heads.
Facing problems gives me a feeling of life accomplishment that I would not otherwise have if I had no problems to overcome.
Are you facing some problems? Thank God, we are going to grow and learn. We are not going to be bored! We are going to achieve a sense of accomplishment. It is a good day!
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, November 17, 2008
30 days, day 17
I am still thankful. Being thankful makes me excited about life.
When I think of something that I am thankful for, it makes me forget the worries of today.
Today I am thankful for music. Let me start with the Gospel Choir. Awesome job last night, you rocked the house!
I also love the Jazz Band, the children's choirs, adult choir, the quartet, the orchestra, bell choir, both bands, and everyone else that leads music at church. You all are awesome.
Going on from this, I am thankful for other music that I love. Fernando Ortega. Jeremy Camp. Kenny Chesney. Tim McGraw. The Moody Blues.
Christmas is coming. It is a great season of music. O Holy Night. Silent Night. It Came upon a Midnight Clear. Joy to the World. It makes me happy just to think about it!
It's a beautiful day in God's world., be sure to see the good.
When I think of something that I am thankful for, it makes me forget the worries of today.
Today I am thankful for music. Let me start with the Gospel Choir. Awesome job last night, you rocked the house!
I also love the Jazz Band, the children's choirs, adult choir, the quartet, the orchestra, bell choir, both bands, and everyone else that leads music at church. You all are awesome.
Going on from this, I am thankful for other music that I love. Fernando Ortega. Jeremy Camp. Kenny Chesney. Tim McGraw. The Moody Blues.
Christmas is coming. It is a great season of music. O Holy Night. Silent Night. It Came upon a Midnight Clear. Joy to the World. It makes me happy just to think about it!
It's a beautiful day in God's world., be sure to see the good.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
30 days, day 16
Today, I am thankful for forgiveness.
Take a moment and think of some of what you have done wrong. Actions, attitudes, being unwilling to grow. When I think of such things, I am so thankful for forgiveness. I am thankful that God, my family, and each of you, forgive me.
As I accept the gift of forgiveness, I am mindful of two things. First, I must continue to work on being the best Jeff that I can. Being a Christian means giving all that I know of myself to all that I know of God. That has to be an ongoing thing for me.
Secondly, since I have been forgiven, I need to forgive others. In fact, I have no right, no right, no right, no right to judge others. They deserve the same grace that I offer to myself. I don't have to agree with them, but I will not condemn or judge them. That is God's job.
I am thankful for forgiveness. It is a powerful force to help you live a healthy life.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Take a moment and think of some of what you have done wrong. Actions, attitudes, being unwilling to grow. When I think of such things, I am so thankful for forgiveness. I am thankful that God, my family, and each of you, forgive me.
As I accept the gift of forgiveness, I am mindful of two things. First, I must continue to work on being the best Jeff that I can. Being a Christian means giving all that I know of myself to all that I know of God. That has to be an ongoing thing for me.
Secondly, since I have been forgiven, I need to forgive others. In fact, I have no right, no right, no right, no right to judge others. They deserve the same grace that I offer to myself. I don't have to agree with them, but I will not condemn or judge them. That is God's job.
I am thankful for forgiveness. It is a powerful force to help you live a healthy life.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
30 days, day 15
Today I am thankful for humiliation. I was going to say suffering, but my suffering is so small compared to others, that I do not feel that I have the right to use the word. So, I will use the word, humiliation. I am thankful for humiliation. Yesterday, I experienced a bit of it.
The day began with an appointment that I missed. I put down the wrong time. Self humiliation. Brought on by the self. I called to apologize and reset the appointment. I felt ridiculous.
Later, I was at a store and was embarrassed by the clerk. I was surprised by their uncharacteristic response to the situation and I felt a bit humiliated.
Before dinner I was at another vendor and had a problem with a rebate card. They could not get the card to work. I felt like my credit card had been denied. It was not their fault, nor mine really, but I felt foolish, humiliated and frustrated. I will have to call the company and get it figured out.
Now you may be asking, why am I thankful for experiences like this that provide a sense of humiliation to me. Well I am thankful for them for several reasons.
First of all, when things do not go well for me, it reminds me that I don't always get things my way. Such moments provide opportunities for me to exercise Christian character, and Lord knows, I need to keep working on this. Humiliating experiences also remind me to think of what Jesus suffered. While I bring some of this stuff on myself, he was innocent in humiliation and suffering. Humiliation also makes me work harder to see the good. I think that anyone can show good character when things are going well. Difficult experiences tend to show what is really inside of us.
Much good happened yesterday and today is a new day. May I enter it with joy and trust in Almighty God.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
The day began with an appointment that I missed. I put down the wrong time. Self humiliation. Brought on by the self. I called to apologize and reset the appointment. I felt ridiculous.
Later, I was at a store and was embarrassed by the clerk. I was surprised by their uncharacteristic response to the situation and I felt a bit humiliated.
Before dinner I was at another vendor and had a problem with a rebate card. They could not get the card to work. I felt like my credit card had been denied. It was not their fault, nor mine really, but I felt foolish, humiliated and frustrated. I will have to call the company and get it figured out.
Now you may be asking, why am I thankful for experiences like this that provide a sense of humiliation to me. Well I am thankful for them for several reasons.
First of all, when things do not go well for me, it reminds me that I don't always get things my way. Such moments provide opportunities for me to exercise Christian character, and Lord knows, I need to keep working on this. Humiliating experiences also remind me to think of what Jesus suffered. While I bring some of this stuff on myself, he was innocent in humiliation and suffering. Humiliation also makes me work harder to see the good. I think that anyone can show good character when things are going well. Difficult experiences tend to show what is really inside of us.
Much good happened yesterday and today is a new day. May I enter it with joy and trust in Almighty God.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, November 14, 2008
30 days, day 14
I am thankful for my children.
This probably should have been second on the list right after my wife, but their placement on the list in no way reduces their importance in my life.
My deepest apologies to any of you who wanted children but could not have them, or to any of you who have lost children, or have children from which you are estranged. I pray that God's grace is big enough to bridge the deep gaps that develop in our lives.
My children are awesome. I have had the privilege of watching them grow from birth to the ripe old ages of 17, 19 and 21. So much of what we have tried to teach them, they are now beginning to "get." They are not always perfect, but neither am I. I believe they know that their parents love each other. I know that they know what a happy, fun home looks like. We haven't ever sugar coated anything, so they know what the real world is mostly like. They know how, and are learning how to work.
I believe that who ever they marry and where ever they work, the people that they choose to spend their lives with will feel that they won the lottery.
Alli, Jenny and Scott, thank you. I have won the Dad lottery. You guys are awesome.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
This probably should have been second on the list right after my wife, but their placement on the list in no way reduces their importance in my life.
My deepest apologies to any of you who wanted children but could not have them, or to any of you who have lost children, or have children from which you are estranged. I pray that God's grace is big enough to bridge the deep gaps that develop in our lives.
My children are awesome. I have had the privilege of watching them grow from birth to the ripe old ages of 17, 19 and 21. So much of what we have tried to teach them, they are now beginning to "get." They are not always perfect, but neither am I. I believe they know that their parents love each other. I know that they know what a happy, fun home looks like. We haven't ever sugar coated anything, so they know what the real world is mostly like. They know how, and are learning how to work.
I believe that who ever they marry and where ever they work, the people that they choose to spend their lives with will feel that they won the lottery.
Alli, Jenny and Scott, thank you. I have won the Dad lottery. You guys are awesome.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
30 days, day 13
I hope you are making a list.
We have so much to be thankful for.
Today, I am thankful for my United Methodist brothers and sisters in ministry. Maybe 700 Methodist ministers in our state. I may know 100 of them. I am close to about 30. I cannot name all of the 30, but I love all of you and I am proud of all of you, and I am blessed to serve with you.
Cody, Sue, Bob, Kendall, Kate, Steve, Aaron, Jim, Jim, Bob, Dave, Sally, Cathy, Jeremy, Brent, Jeff, Jim, Clay, Sherry, Gina, Michele Sue, Kyle, Jim, Dave, Sam, on and on I should go.
You are all wonderful, and I am so thankful for you and it is such a blessing to watch you give yourselves away in the name of Jesus Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
We have so much to be thankful for.
Today, I am thankful for my United Methodist brothers and sisters in ministry. Maybe 700 Methodist ministers in our state. I may know 100 of them. I am close to about 30. I cannot name all of the 30, but I love all of you and I am proud of all of you, and I am blessed to serve with you.
Cody, Sue, Bob, Kendall, Kate, Steve, Aaron, Jim, Jim, Bob, Dave, Sally, Cathy, Jeremy, Brent, Jeff, Jim, Clay, Sherry, Gina, Michele Sue, Kyle, Jim, Dave, Sam, on and on I should go.
You are all wonderful, and I am so thankful for you and it is such a blessing to watch you give yourselves away in the name of Jesus Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
30 days, day 12
Today I am thankful for our country. For the ability to vote. You don't get that everywhere. I am also thankful for the attitude displayed by people in our church after the election. We had people on both sides of the election, and win or lose, they are treating each other with respect. At least that is what I am seeing. I am proud of you. I am thankful for your attitudes. Christians should always remember that we trust in God whether we are happy with the president and congress or not. Christians are also asked to pray for the leaders of their nation.
Today, and always, I am thankful for our country.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today, and always, I am thankful for our country.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
30 days, day 11
I am so enjoying this. Everyday, there is something to be thankful for.
I am thankful today for Clay and others who covered for me on Sunday, and I hear that Clay gave an excellent message. I am not surprised. This allowed me a Saturday night with no worries and a very relaxed Sunday. It allowed me to attend church as a worshipper, which is an awesome thing.
When you are the pastor, you hardly ever just get to "go to church." Sunday I just drove to another United Methodist church, walked in, sat down, and listened to an awesome message.
I am thankful for those who do what it takes to allow me to, and help me to renew my soul.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I am thankful today for Clay and others who covered for me on Sunday, and I hear that Clay gave an excellent message. I am not surprised. This allowed me a Saturday night with no worries and a very relaxed Sunday. It allowed me to attend church as a worshipper, which is an awesome thing.
When you are the pastor, you hardly ever just get to "go to church." Sunday I just drove to another United Methodist church, walked in, sat down, and listened to an awesome message.
I am thankful for those who do what it takes to allow me to, and help me to renew my soul.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
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