Redeeming Public Spaces for Worship

Redeeming Public Spaces for Worship
Darryl Dash/Teresa Neumann Reporting  (Dec 2, 2005)

"We value the arts because God is a God of beauty. If we have a direct line to
the Creator, we should be the most creative. We should be the movers and
shakers in culture."

The church community of the Salvation Army, in always keeping current with
ways to reach The Lost, has opened a new building in Hamilton, Ontario called
FRWY Café Pronounced "freeway," the non-profit cafe is a 7,000-sq. foot
converted bank building which serves coffee and contributes to the
revitalization vision of the city's downtown area.

"When we planted a church, the original idea was to start by building a
community and then develop a café," explains Pernell Goodyear, pastor and ethos-
shaper. "We wanted to create a place that is neutral ground, public space. We
asked what it would take to create a place that is normal, that would reach
people in our culture."

According to reporter Darryl Dash, rather than attracting people to church, it
aims to live out its values and incarnate Jesus in the community and provide a
place for people to develop friendships, discuss issues and interact with
others.

Though not hiding the fact that it is actually a church community, Goodyear
says many people are nevertheless surprised when they discover the café is also
a church. "A lot of people are floored when they find out," says Goodyear. "If
they have been here already, they are generally pleasantly surprised."

As part of its commitment to fostering the arts, and because the café is
located in an artistic neighborhood, says Dash, the café features a live DJ on
Thursday nights and live music Friday nights. "We value the arts because God is
a God of beauty. If we have a direct line to the Creator, we should be the most
creative. We should be the movers and shakers in culture," explains Goodyear.

"We live in an area full of artists," says Goodyear. "In a postmodern, visually-
driven culture, it is important for us to value the arts."

On Sunday nights, the church community meets at the café. The idea, notes Dash,
is to use public space for worship, rather than separating worship space from
public space.

One story Goodyear shared, reflects the influence Christians can have in the
marketplace. When the fire inspector came to check out the building before the
café opened and discovered the purpose of the café, he opened up to Goodyear
about his life and his search for God, whom he said he could never find in
church. At the end of the meeting, Goodyear and the inspector were reportedly
in tears.

Before he left, the man told Goodyear the regular inspector was sick and he
doesn't usually do these inspections, but that "he was meant to come here
today."

"We are not a Christian café, so much as a high quality, non-religious café,"
says Goodyear. "We are simply a group of people trying to help out the city,
and to incarnate the message of Jesus in the neighborhood."


More...
http://www.christianweek.org/stories/vol19/no18/story3.html

Today and Revelation 6

³When the Lamb opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, "Come!" ⁴Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword.

Revelation 6:3-4

This planet has seen some horrible wars in its history. But these wars, as horrible as they were, will be nothing compared to the scale of war that will be unleashed by Satan during the Tribulation period. Today, we have weapons of mass destruction. The USA and several other nations are bona fide members of what they call the nuclear club. But smaller, rogue nations have obtained them as well. Currently humanity has the capacity to literally fulfill what is predicted in Revelation 6. We have at least 60,000 hydrogen bombs. The human race has the power to destroy itself seventeen times over through one, blinding fash.

When one scientist was asked what weapons would be used in World War III, he said, "I am not exactly sure what weapons will be detonated in World War III, but I will tell you what weapons will be used in World War IV: rocks. Because that is all that will be left."

...from, "Are we Living in the Last Days" by Greg Laurie

Barriers to Learning

Barriers to Learning

Find out the certain barriers there are to learing in a classroom setting.

Unless the room temperature is above sixty-five degrees, it is unlikely that learning will take place. If, however, the temperature rises about eighty degrees, learning probably won't take place either. God has made us "amphibious" beings, with one foot in the spiritual world and one foot in the physical world. We are not merely spirits who happen to inhabit bodies, nor are we bodies with spirits attached. We are spirit-bodies, amphibious beings not totally complete without both elements (2 Corinthians 5:1-4). The spirit aspect influences and affects our bodies. Likewise, our bodies affect various spiritual processes, including learning. That's why we generally do not learn unless the room temperature is roughly between sixty-five and eight degrees. The Physical Environment: This is not only true of the temperature. A number of things in the physical environment can impede or even kill learning. Maybe adults should be mature enough to rise about these, but most of us are not. Unless the physical environment is right, the right things usually do not happen in class for the disciple-making process to progress. Temperature is among the most important of the physical factors in the classroom. Another is the quietness of the room. It is difficult for learning to take place when there is a screaming baby next door, a loud video across the hall, or yelling teenagers in the hallway. People ought to be able to filter these distractions out, but loud, distracting noise usually aborts the learning process. No matter how fervently you pray or how well you prepare your lesson, it is unlikely that learning will take place if there is a wailing baby next door, a loud video across the hall, or yelling teenagers in the hallway. People ought to be able to filter these distractions out, but loud, distracting noise usually aborts the learning process. No matter how fervently you pray or how well you prepare your lesson, it is unlikely that learning will take place if there is a wailing baby in the room next door. On the other hand, if your group is watching a video, it must be loud enough for everyone to comfortably hear. Everything in the physical environment either contributes to or distracts from the learning process. Hard chairs tend to distract from the learning process. Little piles of junk—last quarter's Sunday school books mixed with a few maps and some discarded Bibles—tend to distract from learning. On the other hand, an attractive, quiet, well-decorated room with comfortable chairs tends to increase the chances that the right things will happen with the learns in class. Attractive art and tasteful wallpaper tend to help people relax so they can concentrate on the business of learning. If people's bodies are relaxed, their spirits—their minds and hearts—can learn. Likewise, arranging chairs in a circle encourages people to talk to each other, whereas placing them in straight rows tends to limit discussion. People are simply not comfortable talking to those whom they cannot look at face-to-face. When the chairs are set in straight rows, the best we can expect is for conversation to take place between the class members and the teacher. If we want people to talk to each other, we need to arrange their chairs in a circle. Physical factors—the arrangement of the chairs, the temperature of the room, the presence or absence of various distractions—all of these affect learning. Excerpted from Disciple-Making Teachers

What Superchick Believe!

What We Believe

What we believe: It is very simple. We believe that every person regardless of age, gender, size or any other reason you can come up with, was created on purpose and for a purpose. Every person has greatness in them and something special and unique to offer the world. The world doesn't stand in our way. Other people don't stand in our way. We are the only thing standing in our way. We are the ones who define who we are by the choices that we make every day and the things that we choose to believe about ourselves and about life. And don't think that you can just remain unseen and not be affecting people because even by not doing anything that affects someone that you could have reached out to. We have a world out there that is a mess and looking for someone or something to give them a reason to live. It is our responsibility to start doing something. Don't limit yourself or the impact that you can have in changing the world. You could be the next Mother Teresa that shows millions love or a janitor that shows one person love. It's not in the big or in the small it's in the doing..

TIme will Tell...

³²Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering. ³³Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. ³⁴You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions.
(Hebrews 10:32-35)

Can you remember when you first got baptized? Or better yet, when you first had the gospel revealed to you? Can you remember the peace and joy and love you first experienced? You felt like you made it. You found the very thing that was missing all your life. You hopelessly and helplessly search and seeked all your life to find that one thing that was missing. And suddenly the burden was lifted off and you could finally see the whole world as it was suppose to be. What a joy and a comfort and a release. All the emptiness and sin and fear were finally washed away and now you could finally put you heart at ease. There was a reason for your existence and it wasn’t by chance! You now stand having eternal life with the Saviour.

After sometime you found out that you were on another journey and put into a new school. It was time to grow like a baby craving pure spiritual milk. So you devoured the Scripture and went to the study and fellowshipped with other believers and kept pressing on. It was exciting and stimulating and fruitful.

But then the time of testing arrived. You had to put into practice everything that was taught to you. The milk was now used in your body for action. It was time to see what your faith was made out of? Were you willing to give back and give more than take? What you withstand the trials and take in the discipline and harvest a crop of righteousness? Only you can decide for yourself now? No one else could do it for you! It was you turn and it is a new time! Would you continue in your faith? Could you prove to yourself and the others that you would love God in the worst of times and not just the best? Are you willing? Would you worship the blesser and not just the blessings? Was your love and devotion unconditional or were you only in it for yourself the entire time? Only time could tell but let me finish with one phrase:

“³⁵So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded” (Heb 10:35)

Fanny Crosby

She was physically blinded at a young age, but Fanny Crosby developed a spiritual vision like few others. Over the past century, untold numbers have sung her heartfelt hymns of praise to God, and her words still bless beleivers today.

Fanny Crosby never complained about the hardships of life; she simply looked to Jesus. Her attitude is best summed up by a conversation she had with a minister. "Do you know," she said, "that if at birth I have been able to make one petition, it would have been that I should be born blind?" "Why?" asked the minister in surprize. "Because when I get to heaven," she responded, "the first face that should ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior!"

Fanny Crosby, The Treasures of Fanny Crosby

Equiping for Ministry

"... After Christ called his disciples, He began to teach them the nature of the Kingdom. Through this they began to encounter the character of Christ. It is outlined in the beautitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). The character of Christ is one of humility, a broken heart, a thirst for righteousness, an attitude of mercy, a pure heart, a desire to make peace, and a willingness to suffer wrong for his sake."

John M Palmer, Equiping for Ministry

Time is Precious

Time is precious.

It passes by once and never returns.

I asked God...

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve;
I was made weak, that I may learn to humbly obey.
I asked for health, that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty, that I might be wise.
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life;
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for,
But everything I hoped for.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

Anonymous

Turning on the Axis

From bondage to spiritual faith
From spiritual faith to great courage
From great courage to strength
From strength to liberty
From liberty to abundance
From abundance to leisure
From leisure to selfishness
From selfishness to complacency
From complacency to apathy
From apathy to dependency
From dependency to weakness
From weakness back to bondage

By Charles R Swindoll, Come before Winter and...

Billy Graham, Peace with God

You started on a great quest the moment you were born. It was many years before you realized it, before it became apparent that you were constantly searching, searching for something you never had - searching for something that was more important than anything in life. Sometimes you tried to forget about it. Sometimes you attempted to loose yourself in other things so that there can be time and thought for nothing but the business at hand. Sometimes you may even have felt that you were freed from the need to go on seeking this nameless thing. At moments you have almost been able to dismiss the quest completely. But always you have been caught up in it again - always you have had to come back to your search.

by Billy Graham, Peace with God

Brother Lawrence

"... God often choose those who had been the greatest sinners to recieve his greatest graces, because this would reveal his goodness more dramatically."

- Brother Lawrence
The preactice of the presence of God

By George Macleod

I simply argue that the cross be raised again
and the center of the marketplace
as well as on the steeple of the church,

I am recovering the claim the Jesus was not crucified in a cathedral
between two candles:

But on a cross between two theives;
on a town garbage heap;
At a crossroad of politics so cosmopolitan
that they had to write his title
in Hebrew and in Latin and in Greek...

And at the kind of place where cynics talks smut,
and thieves curse and soldiers gamble.

Because that is where he died,
and that is what he died about.
And that is where Christ's men ought to be,
and what church people ought to be about.

by George Macleod

South Asian Violence!

VANCOUVER (AFP) - Young Indo-Canadian and South Asian deceased men dominate police files in Canada's westernmost province of British Columbia like no other ethnic groups.

And the province is setting up a special police task force following the deaths of 90 men in extreme gang violence since 1992.

Spokesman Shinder Kirk said 50 officers have joined the task force in recent weeks from the federal Royal Canadian Mounted Police and municipal forces. By fall, it will be at full strength at 80 investigators.

The move came after a plea for help from community leaders, citing extreme concerns from local people over "what was happening in their community, involving their young men," according to Kirk.

The spokesman said there has been a major attitude shift from past practice of trying to avoid publicity to openly talking about the problem.

Balwant Singh Gill, president of an association of 36 Sikh temples in British Columbia, a leader in the fight against gang violence, said: "Its come to a point where its the responsibility of not only parents, but of police, teachers, councilors' and social workers."

Officially the task force will investigate any gangs, but Kirk said its first focus is Indo-Canadian and South Asian gangs.

Almost all the victims died in the metropolitan area around this major port city of Vancouver.

The Canadian government has also announced funding for a committee to study the causes of Indo-Canadian youth violence.

A typical case is that of Saranjit Gary Rai, who was 22 in 2001 when he was "shot to death, execution-style, by a single gunman in a hair salon," Vancouver police said.

Another is Robby Kandola, 31, "a well-known underworld figure in the Indo-Canadian community," who died in a 2002 drive-by shooting outside his highrise apartment in the upscale city centre, police said.

Solving the problem wont be simple. Big money can be made growing marijuana, smuggling it across the US border and bringing back cocaine and guns.

And there are many theories about why a disproportionate number of Indo-Canadians are involved. "One theory is the cultural issue, where sons are favoured more than daughters and allowed more freedom and get away with more," said Kirk.

"Then theres the nature of the culture, in which young people are expected to live in two worlds. Theres confusion. They ask, what am I, Canadian? Indian? Indo-Canadian?"

Some, however, deny the problem lies within the culture. After one young man was charged in a kidnapping in May, his prominent Sikh father blamed the Hells Angels motorcycle gang, accusing it of using young Indo-Canadians in organized crime.

A spokesperson for the biker gang dismissed the comment as "nonsense."

Political science professor Shinder Purewal said the ethnic gang members come from families in all social-economic brackets.

Gangs exist in all other cultures and cities, he said, but the extent of the murders among Indo-Canadians here is extreme. "Its really a unique phenomenon that these people are killing each other."

And while only a tiny percentage are in gangs, Purewal said, the sensational murders have given the entire community an "image problem."

Gill agreed. "Our reputation is being tarnished by the murders and violence."

Kerala still needs JESUS!

Out of every three cases of suicide reported every 15 minutes inIndia, one is committed by a youth in the age group of 15 to 29.In the Union Territory of Pondicherry, every month at least 15 youthsbetween the ages of 15 and 25 commit suicide.In 2002, there were 10,982 suicides in Tamil Nadu, 11,300 in Kerala,10,934 in Karnataka, and 9,433 in Andhra Pradesh.In 2003, the largest number of farmers -- around 175 -- committedsuicide in Andhra Pradesh.Kerala, the country's first fully literate state, has the highestnumber of suicides. Some 32 people commit suicide in Kerala every day.These statistics are startling. Southern India is the country'sinformation technology hub. The southern region is competing withnorthern India to become the country's economic powerhouse.But south India has another distinction, one that it would rather nothave: the region accounts for the world's largest number of suicidesby young people, according to The Lancet, the respected Britishmedical journal.Some 50,000 people in the four states of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Naduand Andhra Pradesh and the Union Territory of Pondicherry killthemselves every year. This statistic becomes even more alarming whenyou consider that the total number of suicide cases recorded in thewhole of India in 2002 was 154,000.The Lancet has published an authoritative study on suicides insouthern India in its April edition. The study says the suicide ratesamong young men and women in southern India are the highest in theworld.The study conducted by the Vellore-based Christian Medical College onteenagers in Tamil Nadu, especially in the Vellore region, found thatthe average suicide rate for women is as high as 148 per 100,000, and58 per 100,000 for men.Worldwide, this rate is 14.5 per 100,000. Also, in the West, men arethree times more likely to commit suicide than women."This is just the tip of the iceberg," says Dr S K Vijayachandran,nodal officer for Kerala's district mental health programme. "It isnot youngsters alone. More people in the southern states belonging toevery walk of life are killing themselves than in other regions inIndia."For instance, the suicide rate in Kerala was about 32 per 100,000persons in 2002, thrice the rate in India as a whole. "This is a hugeproblem," Dr Vijayachandran says, "which requires urgentintervention."Experts like him put forward various reasons for the dismal state ofmental health among people in the South. Some of these reasons, whichmental health experts term 'acute stress factors,' include:Family conflicts, domestic violence, academic failures, andunfulfilled romantic ideals.Voracious appetite for high-end consumer goods spurred by moneylendersand hire-purchase schemes.The wide gap between people's aspirations and actual capabilities.The disintegration of traditional social support mechanisms as wasprevalent in joint families.Emergence of a trend towards nuclear families, alcohol abuse,financial instability and family dysfunction.A growing population of the aged.Failure of crops, huge debt burdens, growing costs of cultivation, andshrinking yield.Two years ago, the National Crime Records Bureau noted that out ofevery three cases of suicide reported every 15 minutes in the country,one involves a youth in the age group of 15 to 29. 'Youth andmiddle-aged (30 to 44 years) are the prime groups taking recourse tothe path of suicide. Of the total suicide victims, around 37.6 percent are youths in the age group of 15 to 29 years,' the Bureau saidin a report.Interestingly, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which have much higherpopulations and far lower levels of literacy, report fewer suicides.In 2002, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar accounted for 4.8 percent and 1.7percent, respectively, of the total number of suicides in the country.But not everyone is convinced by these figures. "In northern Indianstates, there is low level of registration of suicide deaths in policestations," says Sunder Rajan, a retired Tamil Nadu police officer."Therefore, no figures about suicides in the country can be reliedupon for any scientific analysis of the problem."On its part, the National Crime Records Bureau has one main reason forthe increasing suicide rate in the country: 'Family problems.'Psychologist Mathew Kurien of the Southern Medical Centre, Bangalore,agrees. "In this modern age," Dr Kurien says, "children are notbrought up peacefully. They are under pressure to deliver at school;they are under pressure to appear for competitive examinations. Afterthey reach puberty, no one in the family gives them any advice aboutthe meaning of life."Dr Kurien's argument is borne out by the fact that every year, whenthe results of secondary and intermediate school examinations areannounced, counselling centres across the country are flooded withdistress calls from students. "I get hundreds of calls from studentswho are contemplating suicide because they could not achieve the goodscores expected by their parents," says Elizabeth Vadakkekara,co-ordinator at Thrani, a counselling centre in Thiruvananthapuram.Vadakkekara says the only way to make India, especially the southernregion, less suicide prone is "to make life easy." Of course, that iseasier said than done. A study conducted by the department of community health at theChristian Medical College, Vellore, made the alarming finding thatsuicide accounts for one-half to three-quarters of all deaths in youngwomen and a quarter of deaths in young men in southern India.Dr Anuradha Bose, associate professor in paediatrics who also worksfor the CMC's department of community health, was one of the membersof the group that conducted this study.In a telephone interview with Contributing Special CorrespondentShobha Warrier, Dr Bose discussed the impact of the study.What was the reason for conducting such a study?In the department of community health, data has been collected on aregular basis for the last 18 years or so on causes of death. We haveall this information available to us. We looked at the causes of deathin children between the ages of 1 and 10, and contrary to what weexpected, the single largest cause of death among them was drowning.It took us by surprise because we were under the impression that itwas infectious diseases like diarrhoea that caused most deaths.Was this study conducted all over India?No. The department of community health, CMC, works in the Kaniyambadiblock of Vellore district which has a population of one lakh. Thisvillage is situated right next to Vellore. We have information on alot of things in the block as the department has been working here formany years. In this block, the single largest cause of death amongchildren aged 1 to 10 was drowning.That made us wonder what the cause of death in the next higher agegroups, that is, 10 to 14 and 15 to 19, would be. We pulled out theinformation from our health information system. When we looked at thecauses of death in the age group 15 to 19 from 1992 to 2001, we foundthat suicide was the largest cause of death.Let me tell you about the words injury and accident. Accident impliesthat you can do nothing to prevent it. When you use the word injury,it is understood that you can do something to prevent it. Injury isclassified as unintentional injury and intentional injury. Intentionalinjury is suicide, homicide, and acts of war in any form. Everythingelse comes under unintentional injury.If you look at the causes of death in the age group 10 to 14,unintentional injury was the single largest cause of death. In the 15to 19 age group, intentional injury, that is, suicide was the largestcause of death.Did this also come as a shock to you?It did not come too much as a shock. But when we compared the figureselsewhere in the world, we were shocked to see that it was so muchhigher than what was reported elsewhere previously in India or inother countries; not just in high income countries, but even incountries like Sri Lanka.The rate for boys was 58 per 100,000, and for girls it was 150 per100,000. The rates are so high that if this happened with a disease,you would actually conclude that something has to be done immediately.Once you had this information, did you try to find out the reasons forthis high rate of suicide among girls in south India?My own thinking is that girls commit suicide more frequently becausethis is a manifestation of what we call the gender bias against thegirl child in Indian culture and Indian society. They are driven to itwhen families fight, or they fail in the exams, or if they cannotfulfil their love life, or sometimes when the girls feel they are afinancial burden. But our study did not exactly touch upon why thishappens... We do not know why they took suicide as an option.We are continuing our study, but we need a fairly large amount ofinformation before we can say anything with certainty.It was reported that a similar study found higher rates of suicideamong girls in China, Singapore, etc. But the situation is differentin the so-called developed countries. Has Asian culture got anythingto do with this?In most high-income countries, boys do not talk about suicide, butkill themselves more often. The methods they choose are such that theycannot be saved. On the other hand, girls may talk about killingthemselves more often, but usually the methods they choose are suchthat they can be saved.In India, they [suicidal girls] use hanging or take pesticide. In aremote village, if they take pesticide it is impossible to save them.The girls also burn themselves. In India, they use more effectivemethods.China and Singapore have reported higher suicide rates in women of aslightly older age group, but the rate is not as high as what we havein India. If it is 25 per 100,000 for men in China, it is 30 per100,000 for women. It is higher, but it is not as dramatically high asit is here. At the time the Chinese data was published, it took theworld by surprise because most of them thought men committed suicidemore often.It might have something to do with the Eastern culture. Definitely inour society, it is because there is so much bias against girls. Maybethe girls feel less in control of their lives.The results of the study are alarming...It is terribly sad. Every time there is a death, the health worker inthe village tells the story behind the death to us. It is written onthe back of the death report. Some of the stories are quite sad.One of the girls wanted to marry a boy who belonged to a differentsubsect from the same caste. But there was opposition from the family.So she killed herself.Have the rates increased over the years? Has society become more rigid?The rates are not going up. We looked at the data from 1992-2001.There was not much variation in the rates; it is almost the same. Wehaven't looked at earlier years though.Do you feel Indians as a race are more vulnerable or hypersensitive?I don't think we are racially any different in terms of our emotions.Obviously there is something in our culture that says suicide is anoption. But exactly what factor, we don't know.Why do you think the incidents of suicide are more in southern India?It is more here because I think it is properly monitored. We havehealth workers who live in the villages and they know what ishappening there. This kind of system is difficult to duplicate. Wehave an excellent system of surveillance.You mean, there won't be much difference between southern India andthe rest of India?I think so. I don't know that for a fact. I think if you could putthis kind of system in place, you may find similar high rateselsewhere in India. I don't know much about the culture in the North,I am afraid.Now that you have come out with such a finding, would you be lookingat educating society to prevent these incidents?Our department feels this is something that needs to be urgentlyaddressed. We have started family counselling work. It has been therefor a few years now. The department carries out what is called familylife education among high-school students. We talk to them about sex,relationships, etc, and we think that might help.We have made a small start. We are very much aware that we need to do much more.

The Blame Game

Blame never affirms, it assaults.
Blame never restores, it wounds.
Blame never solves, it complicates.
Blame never unites, it seperates.
Blame never smiles, it frowns.
Blame never forgives, it rejects.
Blame never forgets, it remembers.
Blame never builds, it destroys.

"As long as you blame others, you will be a victim all your life."

Chuck Swindoll's "Strengthening Your Grip..."

Cutting Carnality like Jealousy

Romans 12:15 "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

This is a great piece of advice but very few exercise this in the world we live in today. We can do just the opposite by weeping when others rejoice and rejoice when others weep. Especially the jealous heart is one that will do this. When good things happen to a neighbor, we can end up feeling very sad! Our ‘get ahead no matter what society’ tells us that we are inadequate when a neighbor gets nicer car or a bigger pay check or just seems to be doing better.

But the Bible offers different advice to cut this impurity from our hearts. It says to truly rejoice when with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. Can you think of a stunning example of this in the Bible? The first example that comes to my head is from John 11:35 which is the shortest verse in the good book, "Jesus Wept." This was when his good friend Lazarus died.

What is even more interesting is that Jesus didn’t offer shallow praise in this sitation. He didn’t say, "Praise the Lord," or "Hallelujah," or "Amen." He wasn’t this heartless. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying we should stop giving God praise. It all depends on the appropriateness of the circumstance. To me, it would seem kind of insensitive and maybe even cruel to respond this way to a friends death. He wasn’t unable to sympathize with our weaknesses as Hebrews 4:15 indicates.

Do you know what else would cut jealousy from our hearts? Check out Romans 12:10, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." Would it be great if we truly looked out for the best welfare of our neighbor? Can you imagine the impact. We would offer to help them get ahead at work or find a good vehicle and guide there children. It would be outrageous. They may even ask, ‘Why is this guy doing this? What is he up to? Where did they get so much love?’ And once they realize that we have no ulterior motive but a simple faith in Jesus. BOOM! Before we know it, we find that the Father has drawn another blind, prodigal back to Him! And again we rejoice with the angels in heaven over another sinner who repents.

Oh, but so many inhibitions? We think, ‘What if they take advantage of me?’ or ‘It will take to much of my time.’ Or ‘What if they hurt me.’ Let’s look to Jesus again. He loved anyway. John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." God loved the world and gave himself for it. Sure it hurt. Sure it was hard. Sure it wasn’t easy but remember it is him who does the loving and caring and giving. We just volunteer ourselves as an instrument or tool. 1Peter 1: 3-4, "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."
It is He, God who does the saving and the drawing and when we focus on Him, our inhibitions fall aside. In fact Jesus felt a joy when he had to give his life to save the world. Didn’t you know? Philippians , "And for the JOY set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame and seated himself at the right hand of the Father."

Wouldn’t it be great to share in that joy? It can only happen when we offer ourselves as that sacrifice and give our all to Him? When we decide to crucify or kill those carnal desires like jealousy the keep us in bondage.

It will actually cost us more if we don’t do this. We may end up seeing our neighbor perish in sin and never know the freedom of Christ. Can you imagine that life without hope and faith and joy? Can you even begin to comprehend a love without ever feeling loved or cared for or wanted? Well God can take that all way but it must start with us. Let’s decide today to be Jesus to our neighbor.

There She is...

So we won? WOOoo WHOOooo! We made it. Miss Canada won the Miss Universe pageant. High fives all around! I guess she had what it takes, high cheek bones, a colgate smile, symetrical features, good breath...

Isn't it crazzy how we measure beauty? We parade women under a banner of lights, make them put on dresses and high heels and force them to plaster on a 'no matter what' smile. Then they put on the swim suits and oh, don't forget the talent show. It seems like a shallow way to measure beauty doesn't it?

Oh, it doesn't stop there, we also gauge what is called 'inner beauty?' How? By asking questions with obvious ansrews. Questions like, 'If you could change anything in the world, what would you change?" Then they would say obvious things like, "Oh, I'd rid with world of poverty or Aids or hunger..."

And we pretend to be moved and touched by their 'profound' answers. But really, what do you expect them to say? "Oh, I wish there was more homelessness and terrorism mixed with a couple of nuclear wars."

And these contestants, are they really that beautiful? We make them look flawless and perfect and even righteous. Do they have a carnal or sinful nature like you and me? Do they think, "Gosh, look at her hips, I'd kill to look like that?" or "Wow, watch that smile! I'd feel like punching her." or "If I could change anything in the world, I'd want the all people to envy my beauty!"

Well, the closest thing we have to a beauty pageant in the Bible is in the book of Esther. I couldn't tell if the Good book was condemning these pageants or not. Let me know if you find out. (But I must warn you that I don't think that was the point of the book).

One thing the Bible is clear on is defining what real beauty is. There are plenty of verses about what to look for in a wife. Let's look at a couple of verses, shall we?

Proverbs 19:13
a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping.

Proverbs 27:15
A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day

Proverbs 21:9
Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

Proverbs 21:19
Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered wife.

Proverbs 25:24
Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

Ouch! Poor Solomon... He had many wives and had to learn the HARD way! Well these verses tell us what's not beautiful about a woman and in this case a wife. I wish these beauty pageants were able to measure a woman's character! What is she like at home? No, really! Wouldn't it be great if we had these contestants in a reality show or something? You know, see them trying to maintain a household. Oh, but then this would be a Mrs Beauty Pageant. But I think this is crucial. How beautiful is a woman when the rubber hits the road? You know, when the pay cheque runs thin or when the toilet seat is up or down or which ever way it is? How do they work under pressure? Are they still as squiky clean and beautiful or contentious as poor Solomon experienced? Oh my, who knows...

But anyway, lets look at what a real beauty is. Check out these verses:

Proverbs 31:10-31

¹⁰ A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.

¹¹ Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.

¹² She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.

¹³ She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.

¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.

¹⁵ She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.

¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.

¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.

¹⁹ In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.

²¹ When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

²² She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

²³ Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.

²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

²⁹ "Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."

³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

³¹ Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Wooo Weee! Hubba Hubba! A Woo ga! We hit the jackpot ladies and gentlemen. This is it. This is truly a beautiful women! You see the qualities and the beauty! Yeeh HAA!

But you know what! You know what else is true beauty. True beauty is when we practice the virtues we desire for that special some one in our life! When we start with ourselves and decide, "Hey, I want to be that person who is caring and loving and sensitive and etc..." This is a great start! Isn't it? I've met many people who would write down 'the list' of what they want in their ideal mate! Instead we should look at that list and practice those qualities instead! What do you think?

Please comment below.

Money, Money, Money!

Money can buy medicine, but not health.
Money can buy a house, but not a home.
Money can buy companionship, but not friends.
Money can buy entertainment, but not happiness.
Money can buy food, but not an appetite.
Money can buy a bed, but not sleep.
Money can buy a crucifix, but not a savior.
Money can buy the good life, but not eternal life.

Chuck Swindoll's, "Strenghtening your Grip"

(Hey, read FBI below! It's one of my favorites)

Offering

We all have something beautiful to offer God.
Something wonderful!
Something.

It can be a simple hello to our neighbour.
It can be a phone call to someone we haven’t see in awhile
It can be visiting the sick in a hospital.
It can be a helping hand to a buddy who needs to move.
It can be a listening ear for a broken heart.
It can be a letter of encouragement to lift a spirit.
It can be congratulations to a friend who had a prayer answered!

It can be anything.
It can be something.
It can be wonderful.
It can be thoughtful

We all have something beautiful to offer God

Contentment

"You see, society's plan of attack is to create disatisfaction, to convince us that we must be in constant pursuit for something out there that is sure to bring us happiness. When you reduce that lie to its lowest level, it is saying that contentment is impossible without striving for more. God's Word offers the exact opposite advice: Contentment is possible when we stop striving for more. Contentement never comes from externals. NEVER!"

Chuck Swindoll's, "Strengthening Your Grip"

FBI

Firm Believer in Christ (Roman 1:16)

The decision has been made, the dye has been cast, and I have stepped over the line. As a disciple of Christ, I will no longer look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future secure. I'm finished with low living, sight walking, worldy talkin, cheap giving, and tamed visions. I no longer need pre eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, power, or popularity. I don't have to be right, recognized or praised, regarded or rewarded. I now live by faith, walk in victory, and labor in love. The road before me is narrow and rough, but His commission is undeniable, thus my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the face of the enemy, pander at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of medocrity. I won't give up, shut-up or let-up, until I have prayed up, praised up, paid up, and spoke up for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am a Firm Beleiver in Christ.

Winston Churchill

"We make a living by what we get,

We make a life by what we give"

~ Winston Churchill

The Greatest Thing

"...and the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor 13:13)

Psychologist say there are two main things that people need for full and effective lives. The first is the ability to express love, and the second is the oppourtunity to express love. The person who cannot or will not love will be shriveled in his relationships. The man who is not loved, who doesn't know what being loved is like, will be stunted in his soul. We are made for relationships, so to be stunted relationally is to be impoverished personally, shriveled emotionally, and impaired socially.

from Stuart Briscoe's Devotions for Men

True Greatness

Jesus talked about not letting your left hand know what your right hand is doing. True greatness in God's kingdom is serving without the need for the praise, approval and recognition of others. It's serving with your eyes on Christ and not yourself. That's not always easy to do. It's natrual to want to know that you're making a positive difference in the lives of teenagers. Recognition is the feedback that tells you that you're on target. A simple thank-you is an honest, earthly expression of appreciation. None of those things are wrong; what's important is that we keep recognition in perspective. One thank-you from God will go a lot further than a stadium full of cheering fans. Jesus is your model for giving your life for teenagers. He came to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. As a servant leader, true greatness is waiting for the most important thank-you stored for you in heaven.

The Word on Building Leaders by Jim Burns; Joey O'Connor.

Loving Others Pt. 2

"Unless life is lived for others, it is not worthwhile." - Mother Teresa

Sanctification

"Two things contribute to our sanctification," wrote Pascal. "Pains and pleasures."

Loving Others

When it comes to the whole subject of loving others, you must know this: how you will handle your own heart is how you will handle theirs. This is the wisdom behind Jesus' urging us to love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31). "A horrible command," As C.S Lewis points out, "if the self were simply to be hated." If you dismiss your heart, you will simply dismiss theirs. If you expect prefection in your heart, you will raise the same standard for them. If you manage your heart for effeciency and performance, that's what you'll pressure them to be.

- John Elderide Waking the Dead.

Church and Football

It has been said that a professional footbal game is an event where eleven men in desperate need of rest are criticized by a crowd of people in desperate need of excercise. - Stuart Briscoe Devotion for Men

Football games have some things in common with church services.

Watch Out!

Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words, they become actions.
Watch your actions, they become habits.
Watch your habits, they become your character.
Watch your character, it becomes your destiny.

Devotions for Men by Stuart Briscoe.

Giving

^{LUKE 7}

³⁷When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, ³⁸and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.

³⁹When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is–that she is a sinner.”

⁴⁰Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.”

“Tell me, teacher,” he said.

⁴¹“Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii,^[d] and the other fifty. ⁴²Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he cancelled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”

⁴³Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt cancelled.”

“You have judged correctly,” Jesus said.

⁴⁴Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. ⁴⁵You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. ⁴⁶You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. ⁴⁷Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven–for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.”

⁴⁸Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

⁴⁹The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

⁵⁰Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

We can come to Jesus with so many requests, In the Bible, some people came for healing (Luke 7:1-9), while others came for knowledge (Matthew 23:34-35), some for food (John 6:26), others, to watch a miracle (Matthew 12:38)

But in Luke 7 we see a different image. What was the very first thing the women did when she came to Jesus? She didn’t ask for healing. She didn’t ask for a miracle. She didn’t ask for anything. She came with one desire and that was to GIVE.

She poured out her tears on his feet of all places. Our feet are not like other parts of the body. They are in the dirt all day stepping on who knows what and smelling like… You get the picture.

And with what did she use to dry her feet? She used her very hair off all things. Most people treat their hair better than the poor, (notice it said poor and not lazy). Do you know how many millions are spent on hair products? It’s a multi million-dollar industry. We spend money on things that we consider of great value. She would use her precious hair to wipe the feet of Jesus.

This was her initial response to Jesus. What is our response to Jesus? Sometimes we can be quite shallow with our relationship with him. We can go to Jesus with one desire and that is only to TAKE. I can hear it now, “Lord I need my nails clipped,” “Lord I need a bigger SUV and not the Escalade!” “Lord I need a prettier wife.” “Lord I need the latest IPOD” and so on….

This woman was far different! She GAVE and what was Jesus’ response? She was a giver and not a TAKER.

And God used the situation as and example to teach Peter,

“Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair…” (v44-47)

Do we have that attitude as well? Or are we just hollow takers? Are we willing to give to Jesus? Well the choice is ours…

When things go wrong...

Don't you hate it when things go wrong? I do. It hurts to see a son or daughter not following God or find out that we are sicker than we think or the vacation plans go sour. I hate it when things go wrong.

How do you react? Do you get mad? Do you get angry? Do you want to screaaam? There are many different reactions we can take. Some are carnal and some are guided by the Holy Spirit.

We can react by placing blame on others. This is really tragic when we blame people who don't really deserve it. We are angry and in the heat of the moment we want to take out all our rage on some innocent person. They are not responcible but we want justice to be served. Someone must pay the price. Someone must be responcible! Someone must take the fall and the blame. So we may take it out on a friend or our children or a parent or a leader when they might not deserve it.

But the Bible says that our battle is not against flesh and blood but principalities and powers. We should be taking our rage out on the unseen dark forces working against us. We use weapons of warfare that are not carnal but can take down strongholds. We put on the whole armor of God and fight the good fight.

We also need to react in the fruits of the Holy Spirit when flesh and blood that might look like the opposition. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self control is how we need to react. Remember Jesus hated the sin but not the sinner.

And sure we might blunder here or there but we must be aware that God will finish the good work he started in us. We must be aware that if we can confess our sins, He is the faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. We must remember the story of the prodigal son and how he was restored after repentance. We must remember to forgive 70 *7 or wholly. We must bear with one another and forgive one another even as Christ forgave you? We are all a work and progress.

So let's put off the sin that hinders and let us run the race marked out for us setting our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith! Let us press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God called us heavenward in Christ Jesus! Are you in? Will you fight the good fight and finish the race? What do you have to lose?

God and Pastors

It is not your pastor's responsibility to heal you.
It is not your pastor's responsibility to make your life perfect.

It is not your pastor's responsibility to change your husband

It is not your pastor's responsibility to change your wife

It is not your pastor's responsibility to change your kids

It is not your pastor's responsibility to change you!

It is not your pastor's responsibility to perform miracles.

It is not your pastor's responsibility to raise the dead.

It is not your pastor's responsibility cure your diseases.

It is not your pastor's responsibility to have all the answers!

It is not your pastor's responsibility to read your mind!

Your Pastor is not God.

Your Pastor is a man.

Your Pastor is human just like you.

What is your Pastor's responsibility?

To guide those who look to Jesus for the answer.

"It is better to trust in the Lord than put confidence in man." Psalm 118:8

Love, Love, Love!

"36Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? 37Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

(Matthew 22:36-40)

Today is the day of Love. We celebrate love and with the ones we love. But do you know what will happen to the love of many in the last days? "The love of most will grow cold..."

(Matthew 24:12)

Can you see it happening today? Aids are at epidemic proportions in Africa and not enough is being done. North Korea has halted talks over their Nuclear Capabilities. Children of the Tsunami are being victimized and exploited in child labor and prostitution. People are still being killed in Iraq after the democratic elections.

There are many examples. How do we react to it? Many of us still drive our SUV's and live in our 2 floor rooms with our 4 course meals. Some of us live in the lap of luxury. We buy closets full of cloths and cupboards full of food. We go into debt over senseless things that don't have any practical use in our lives. We even take people to court over trivial matters in hopes of gaining more money. O the insatiable greed for more. Greed is like filling a bottomless pit.

Sure more can be done and it is within our means but what are we really doing? Do we truly care? Do we weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice? (Romans 12:15) Do we give to our friends when it is in our power to do so? How about how enemies?

Today is the day of love. Wouldn't it be great if the world nations overcame other opposing nations with love. Imagine if nuclear countries abandoned their Nuclear Weapons plans and built orphanages instead or fed the hungry? Imagine if they started.

Many of us Christians sit, wait and watch. But do you now what? Today we can make a difference. Just try it in one person's life everyday. Try a small act of kindness to a friend or even a stranger or better yet an enemy. And how fitting if we did it today on Valentines. What would happen? Well we were once enemies with God but God still showed us the love (Romans 5). What would happen if we obeyed the most important commandments in the Bible? I think we'd see God's kingdom on earth. We'd answer Jesus' prayer for a change instead of Him always answering our prayers.

"Happy Valentines Day"

What a beautiful day huh? In case you forgot it is Valentine’s Day. Some of you may be saying, “O Gosh, I forgot all about it! I gotta go and get flowers and chocolates and dinner and etc…” while others may be saying, “O, I got to go and get that bucket of Chocolate Ice Cream and have a pity party and cry over some ‘romantic’ movie.” There are so many different ways to celebrate. There are so many reasons for the season.

I was in India last year and Valentine’s is a new concept being introduced to the people. I’m not sure if everyone there understands how it is celebrated. My dad was reading the paper that told about this man who was madly infatuated with this woman. Valentines came and he made his intentions known to some damsel. She wasn’t very interested or impressed with the guy and kinda let him down. So how did he react? He cut off her hand! OUCH!

Also there was this Internet group that was planning to celebrate Valentines in another way. There was this guy who was trying to rally this group together to commit suicide on this day. He got caught and is in custody with the police now. Wow.

My Dad has a different way of celebrating. He usually comes with flowers, wine and chocolates and presents them to my mom. She starts of being bitter but later she reluctantly accepts. Dad’s quite the honey dripper.

So Dad decided to give me some ‘advice’ on celebrating. Well, I’m not sure if it is called advice or nagging when he says, “When are you going to get married and settle down and yadda yadda yadda!” I told him that I have never been happier in my life. The degree is finished, I get to do tons of ministries, I have a lovely roof over my heart, a 3-course meal (sometimes more), and a vehicle. I just cleared my VISA card and I don’t have to worry about mortgage, mouths to feed, bills, dates to remember etc. etc. etc. Life has never been better. I can take a deep breath and Praise God! They’re very few people who are as blessed as me. Dad chuckled and mentioned how my fore fathers gave blood, sweat and tears to make it so I try not to take it for granted.

Then I found an article at church celebrating Valentines. It celebrated some truths for singles about marriage from Bill and Lynn Hybels, which I will share with you:

1) Marriage will not end one’s loneliness. Apparently there are millions of lonely people who are in ideal marriages

2) Marriage will not heals one’s brokenness. Only God can do that he, “ heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:2)

3) Marriage will not always ensure one’s happiness and according to the Hybels, in Fit to be Tied, “…an unhappy single person will be an unhappy married person.”

4) Marriage is not for everyone. Jesus and Paul spoke about the advantages in ministry as singles.

Now don’t get me wrong I’m not against marriage in any way but I wish we’d realize the Valentines could be a day to celebrate for us singles as well. Check out Paul and Mother Teresa who have had happy single lives for God. They did a grand work for the Almighty and aren’t they awesome models to follow? Their lives changed the face of the earth. We singles need to rise up and tell the World that Valentines is a festive day for celebration for us as well. This day can be a day to gain a new inspiration for ministry and also a day to count our blessings and make light of the advantages of serving God with little hindrance. It can be a day to regather a new momentum and gain a better perspective. Then we'll be able to rejoice and say, "What a wonderful day it is!" and "Happy Valentines Day!"

Forgiven Sinners vs the Proud

Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. 47Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven–for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.”

48Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”


49The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

50Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

(Luke 7:44-50)


Who can appreciate mercy and grace more than a sinner? Did you know that there is a wage to sin? The Bible says that, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). We are all guilty of committing some form and evil and sin against God. And what does sin deserve? “For the wages of sin is death...” (Romans 6:23) What a heavy price but if you are a holy God you will have no love for any kind of evil. Are you nervous? Do you feel anxious? Stay calm and keep reading because there is more to God. He’s provided a solution.

God is actually a merciful God. They say that mercy is not getting what you do deserve. As we said before, “… the wages of sin is death...” (Romans 6:23) But God paid the wage with the death of His son Jesus. His death on the cross paid the wage for the evil we have done. Sin, which we all committed, deserves death but Jesus took that wage upon himself with his death. We did not get what we deserved. This is God’s demonstration of mercy.

Not only is God merciful but also He is gracious. They say that grace is getting what you don’t deserve. “…the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” God paid the debt for our sin and even offers us another gift, which is eternal life. We get something we do not deserve. What a merciful and gracious God!

Well there a people who cannot a appreciate grace. They are usually called the proud. They are people who think highly of themselves and boast in their own accomplishments and success without the awareness or appreciation of God. They seek to glorify self. They cannot always recognize the Holy Spirit’s conviction over sin or the joy of being forgiven. If they do feel some guilt or shame over their sin it can usually be relieved in pursuing more accomplishments or focussing more on the greatness of past glories. There is no sin in wanting to be successful unless it is motivated to exalt self above God.

I’ve met people like this. They have little compassion or concern for others and feel quite lonely and dead inside. They will only surround themselves with people who will affirm their glories and shun or shame those who do not. Poor souls. If only they will humble themselves and repent and turn from there sins. Then God can enter and relieve the loneliness and offer abundant life. But the proud never want to admit when they are wrong. It doesn’t affirm there self made glory. Turning from sin and coming to Jesus is to humbling for them. That’s why God must resist the proud but gives grace to the meek.

Miracles

Do you know what the requirement is for a miracle? It’s the impossible. Miracles are when the impossible becomes possible. Some examples of miracles are can be a healing that the Doctors said could never happen. It can be also be a situation that we thought would never turn out for good but does.

We can never truly see the face of God until we are faced with impossible odds. When God makes the impossible possible, we get a small glimpse of what he looks like, what he can do, and who he is. This usually happens when we bottom out or come to the end of our self, or when we have done everything within our means to make the most out of and impossible situation. When we are in a situation where we need something or someone more powerful than ourselves to take over, we get a chance to see God in a tangible way..

But what do we do in the meantime? After, we’ve prayed and fasted and read the Bible, got the advice from some godly friends, and kept ourselves free from sin, what do we do next? What do we do when we’ve done all we are meant to do? What do we do when we are in the gap between the promise of God and its fulfillment?

There are many options. We can double check to see if we fulfilled all our responsibilities. Or we can give in to worry that we didn’t cover all our bases. We can start to doubt that God can come through. We can get depressed by assuming the worst. We have so many options.

Well the Bible talks a lot about having to face odds that are stacked against us and it offers a different solution. The Bible says that we should do things like wait which has some tangible benefits to help us on our way, “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) We get knew strength when we wait on God

The Bible also says that we should also have something called faith, which is, “… being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1).” But even our faith can be challenged at times. So what should we do? How do we get more faith? According to Romans 10:17, “… faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.”

As we read the word of God we meet other people who were in the same predicament. Like Sarah who wanted a child but was too old to, or Moses who had to lead a nation through a sea, or David who needed deliverance from enemies. What ended up happening when they waited on God with faith and hope? God came and saved the day in perfect timing. He came and delivered what he promised. We have seen God in a tangible way now. We know it can only be Him because after all he did what we couldn’t do. He gets all the glory. He made the impossible possible, which is a miracle. So what happens to us? Our faith EXPLODES! The next time that w are faced with impossible odds, take it as an opportunity to see God face in an unquestionable way.

Ecclesiastes and Geography

"All the rivers run into the sea, Yet the sea is not full; To the place from which the rivers come, There they return again." Ecclesiastes 1:7

Did you know that Science has proven the Bible? It’s not talked about to much but it is true. The author of Ecclesiastes talks about rivers returning to its source. This is actually what science has discovered and called the hydrologic cycle. We may have been taught it in elementary school or even at Geography class. It talks about rain falling in the earth forming streams and rivers which eventually empty out into a lake or ocean. Here the sun heat causes it to evaporate and once it evaporates, it takes on the form of clouds which becomes so saturated that they eventually rain down on the earth. This rain becomes the source of water for rivers which empty into lakes and again and the cylce continues.

Well this cycle is mentioned in the Bible in Ecclesiastes. Did you know? During the modern age, we were convinced that science was the ansrew and that faith is useless including faith in God's Word. Christians have put there faith in the Word of God as truth for centuries and here's an example of Science actually proving it.

Karl Marx and Christ

“… union with Christ consists in the most intimate communication with him, in having him before our eyes and in our hearts, and being so filled with the highest love for him, at the same time we turn our hearts to our brothers whom he has closely bound to us, and for him whom also he sacrificed himself…”

These are some words from a school-leaving essay by a school boy in 1835 at the age of 17. Karl Marx is his name. The same one who’s books changed the face of the world, and in who’s name had countless Christians and people of other faiths slaughtered.

It’s from God’s that Fail by Vinod Ramachandra
The quote was pulled from Karl Marx & Friedrich Engels, “Collected Works”

If you can, check them out!

Pole Dancing Minister

This is an article from The Now Newspaper. Check out the website at www.thenownewspaper.com

On a pole-dancing mission: Ordained minister joins with Cloverdale entrepreneur in fitness venture

By Simone Blais

It only takes a short conversation with Jan Janzen to realize she's a pole-dancing minister - and proud of it.
Janzen, an ordained, non-denominational minister, is the brains behind A Pole Lot of Fun Enterprises Inc., a party company that has supplied poles for living rooms across the country and franchised the industry around the world, allowing women to try their hand at whirling and twirling around what, in the past, has been considered a pole reserved for exotic dancers.
Janzen first became aware of pole dancing when she was invited to a friend's stagette party.
"I walked into this room and there was this pole in the middle. I couldn't believe how unnerved I was," she admits, adding she's not usually afraid of taking risks. "I have walked on fire, I have jumped off a cliff, I got in a plane and went to Africa by myself, and yet this stupid piece of metal had me uncomfortable. That fascinated me."
Janzen noticed how she and the other women, initially shy and embarrassed about pole dancing, completely transformed by the time the night was over. She asked one of the women who taught the lesson for a business card - but went away empty-handed, as they didn't even have cards.
That got Janzen's brain working overtime.
"I went home and got into bed, and the business plan came flying into my brain for the next four hours," she recalls.
Within two weeks, the Belcarra resident had attracted an investor in Colin Sprake, a Cloverdale-based entrepreneur whom she met at a networking event.
"I usually don't get involved in trendy products," says Sprake, a veteran of the mining industry, "but this one intrigued me."
The company's head-office franchise is registered in Surrey. Since Dec. 1, Janzen and Sprake have sold their pole-dancing business concept to eight franchisees in Ontario, New York, Texas and other areas, according to Sprake.
Janzen credits pole dancing's newfound popularity to daytime diva Oprah Winfrey, who paired with stripper Sheila Kelly to do a segment on pole dancing a year-and-a-half ago.
"When Oprah did it, it was kind of like God spoke," she says. "Barbara Walters pole danced on The View. Sheila Kelly's doing it, Angelina Jolie's doing it, Kate Moss, they're all doing it.
"People really started looking at the fitness side of things. They're tired of the Pilates and the yoga and the step class. But now, there's this thing out that's a bit naughty - not because it is, just because that's the perception of it."
What makes the activity so appealing to women, according to Janzen, is that it incorporates a sensuality into exercise.
"People have taken that sexuality and sensuality out of being a woman, and I think we're at the time to bring it back. I just want to see it brought back in a wholesome, respectful, honourable way."
-with file from Tom Zillich

Innocent

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way just as we are – yet was without sin”

(Hebrews 4:15-16)

I guess that means that Jesus was completely innocent if he was without sin. We often associate innocence to a baby or a child. They are harmless with pure motives. They are usually quite forgiving and sweet. They haven’t been completely hardened by sin and corruption and the evil in the world.

Now think of someone you care about? Are you a parent? How do you feel when someone harms your children whom you care and love? Maybe a stranger offers them an apple with a needle or pin inside or starts swearing at them. How do you feel when someone punches your children and beats them with a reed? Or beat them with a whip nine tails that would expose vital organs. Maybe put a crown of thorns on their head and drape there body on a cross and nail them to it. How does it feel to see children take on this punishment that they did not deserve because they are innocent.

Do you feel angry? Do you feel sad? Do you feel broken? Do you feel mad? Well someone has had to go through that a couple of thousand of years ago. We were the ones who made Him go through it. Not very fair is it?

This person was Jesus and Jesus was even more innocent than children. He committed no sin. He was completely righteous. Hold on a sec now! He was tempted in all ways as well. Does this mean that every kind of temptation to trip him was being done? I don’t know? Can you think of some? Lust, greed, murder, jealousy and so on…
Well, I thank God that Jesus raised from the slow painful death on the cross. God used it to pay the price for all the evil we done to Him and each other. He used it to restore His relationship with us. What a mighty God we serve? What a God!

Heroes

Sometimes we hear about someone who does something outrageous. They fight for a worthy cause, challenge the status quo and make a difference. People like Billy Graham who spread the gospel to billions, or Mother Teresa who picks babies out of the garbage and loves lepers with words and deeds in the name of Jesus. We call them heroes.

We get inspired. We get passionate. We almost stand in awe of these people. Hope starts to flood in with ideas and possibilities of making the world a better place. Yes we can make a change. We can make a better tomorrow for our children. It can happen. It is possible. We are charged with a new optimism and a living hope. We are charged up and ready to go. We are like a stick of dynamite!

As we begin to make a game plan and put passion into action, we get tested a bit. Are we really willing to pay the price for it? Will we stop at nothing to see a change for the better? Can we truly fight the good fight? Will we finish the race and complete what we started?

We get tested when our passion makes us hyper-sensitive. These tests can take on different forms. It can be a person who doesn’t agree that it can happen. It can be resources that won’t come through. Sometimes we get so passionately sensitive that we become offended by the tests. We respond by cutting off the dream or find a new fellowship. Sometimes we even give up and discouragement sets in and trauma and doubt. Could it all be for nothing we ask? Was I wrong? Can we really make this place a better world for tomorrow? Were the heroes really right?

But the tests are meant to strengthen our resolve. They test the work to see if it will last or if it is true and pure and right. Will we still stick it out? How do we stay in the race? What can we do to avoid discouragement and trauma? Expect it! Expect tests to come on the path. Find a way to respond in a productive fashion. A way that doesn’t compromise the vision but brings in more force and multiplies the momentum. We need to respond in a way that makes others catch the vision and maybe even dare to come on board. We need to be over comers and conquerors doing it with the right motives and means. Not conquering each other but conquering the unseen forces that work against us.

We also need to guide passion with wisdom and love. We need to have passion guided by a love that is not easily provoked. A love that bears all things and believes all things and hopes all things and endures all things (1Cor 13). A love that lays downs his/her life for a friend (John 15:13).

We need a model to follow as well. Jesus is perfect. He had the love and vision and he even laid down his life for it. When we study him, understand him, follow him and even worship him, we become like him. We heed his words which can increase faith. After we go through the tests that show if our work is true and pure and right, we realize that our vision was actually His. When we continue to obey him his resources become our resources! His Father our Father. His Spirit our Spirit. His passion our passion. Those heroes who inspire us, who fight good fights with pure causes with righteous means point us back to Jesus. And we live out what we were meant to live!

Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous

We seem to covet the famous. The ones with the killer looks, to die for mansions and bottomless bank accounts. They seem to have it all. But have you heard about some of their personal lives? Mel Gibson had it all. He had the bank account and looks and money and fame and so on. I seen him in an interview looking at a picture of himself on some popular magazine. It was a picture during one of the peaks of his career and where he just finished rocking the Box office with one of his action flicks. He captured the hearts of women with Colgate smile and the admiration of Men with his machismo, smart alec ‘can’t touch this’ attitude. But what was Mel thinking? He said that was the lowest point of his life. He was suicidal and in alcohol and prodigal living and felt empty and dead inside. How can this be? He had it all man! Well one night he had a Bible in his hand and came back to a faith in Christ that was introduced to him when he was a kid. What happened next? He was changed.

Later I saw an interview of Britany Spears. She has it all. Just like Mel, she has fame, fortune and a following. These people almost look bullet proof! They seemed invincible. They are set for life, a life without the hassle of making mortgage payments or getting the kids through college and so on. This is what we yearn for. A comfortable and easy life where we are the centre of attention and people covet us and admire us and maybe even worship us. We want this kind of rest from our toil and become larger than life. At least that’s how Hollywood portrays them.

Then the interviewer asked Britany about her old love and heart throb. Later you see her blushing, broken and embarrassed and in tears. She was filled with guilt and shame for a mistake she made that broke her relationship with that N’Sync dude. She was exposed and not so bullet proof as we think. Interesting…

Than there was another interview with Terry Hatcher. You remember here right? She’s was the babe on the old Superman show that was on in the ‘90’s I believe. She was the ‘bombshell.’ Whatever happened to her? Like Britany and Mel she had it all but talked about how she lost almost everything: her house, money, marriage and so on. You could see the emptiness in her eyes. Hard to believe that these people are only humans like you and me. They feel guilt, pain and sometimes feel insecure just like anyone else. When we see their true story, we don’t seem to covet them anymore. We might even seem relieved that are life was not as grim as there's.

So what’s the point in all this chatter? I guess the point is that everything is not quite what it seems? Sometimes it just doesn’t add up. When we are brought to the end of ourselves like Mel and Brit and Terry, where should we turn? Who do we go to? What should we do? Well I for one would like to have love and joy and peace. This is what happens when we turn to Jesus and sow in the Holy Spirit he gives to us. Mel kinda mentioned it. So are you interested? Step aboard!

3 kinds of People

I've met all kinds of people over the years. They can fall into all sorts of categories, in fact I came up with three today. They can either be:

1) Takers
2) Takers and Givers
3) Givers

But God calls us to a much higher level. Take a look at what Paul said in the book of Romans, "I appeal to you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." (Rom 12:1).

We are called to be givers. We are to offer our mind, body, soul, spirit and will to God. Now I know God promises rewards but wouldn't it be great if we weren't in it for ourselves for a change? We need to get rid of the old WIFM (What's in it for me) attitude. Wouldn't that be great?

I.D

I.D for Intelligent Design which is an argument that states that the origin of life, the diversity of speices, and even the structure of organs like the eye are so bewilderingly complex that they can only be the handiwork of a higher intelligence. Some suggest that this intelligence is God!

What do you think?

Cheap Grace

I was just reading some quotes from a man named Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was a Lutheran Pastor in Germany during World War II. He opposed the Nazis and was captured by the Gestapos and later executed in April, 1945.

He wrote a book called "Cheap Grace," which he defined as "preaching forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus living and incarnate."

Does this kind of teaching exist today?

Science and Faith

Just read the Time Mag on Happiness, which speak of some spiritual subjects. In 2003 a study involving 3,300 adolescents found that teens who attend services, read the Bible and pray feel less sad or depressed, less alone, less misunderstood and guilty and more cared for then non religious peers.

Another study showed that Protestants reported higher levels of well being than Catholics and even higher levels than Jews. One possible reason is that Protestants voiced a greater belief in an afterlife than did Jews. The study suggested that Protestants derive more joy in their internal faith in God, whereas Jews and Catholics draw more comfort from their religious communities.

Quite Interesting… What are your comments?

Inspirational Leaders Wanted!

Just the other day I was hearing a preacher preach an awesome sermon. He was speaking about the story of His glory. It had me at the edge of my seat. He was not from around here. I love hearing foreign missionaries preach. They seem to be more sensitive to see our idols and sin than we are. We can be too de-sensitized at times. Apparently here in Canada, our churches are known to be in a state of slumber. The church here seems to be like a sleeping giant. Maybe not all parts but definitely some.

I can’t remember all he said but I do remember this. The preacher went on to say that we need inspirational leaders. What is and inspirational leader you may ask? They are volunteers who say, “Something has to be done and I’m going to do it! I’ll do it whether my pastor or church or parent will do it or not!”

But so often we fall short of this. Instead we look at our vulnerabilities. We can’t measure up. We don’t have the charisma or the looks or the gift of the gab or enough education etc...

It’s not a question of what we don’t have but we can do with what little we do have. It’s not by power or might but by my Spirit. Remember what Jesus did with a couple of loaves and fish? He fed multitudes!

What kind of faith can you offer?
Offer God your pain, failures, traumas and weaknesses and remember:
A CAUSE NOT WORTH DIEING FOR ISN’T WORTH LIVING FOR!

Thank you, Alphonse for those inspiring words

Post-Pritam Depression

Mr.Bilson

I became a bumbling mess of tears and greif as I had to say "good-bye" to my friend and mentor Pastor Pritam Singh Sandhu!

P - Presistant
R - Risk Taker
I - Inspiring
T- Thrill-Seeker
A- Accepting
M- Meek

Thanks for encouraging me when I was down.
Thanks for giving me comfort when I was broken hearted.
Thanks for inspiring me to step out of the comfort zone.
Thanks for challenging me when I felt bold.

I will never forget you.
Thank you Jesus for Pritam

Time Mag & the Bible

I just read an issue in Time Mag about "The Science of Happiness." and it gave 8 steps toward a more satisfying life. What the naked eye wouldn't have found is that the steps were based on biblical values.

1. Count your blessings - "...Give thanks in all circumstances." (1 Thessalonian 4:18)

• Giving thanks helps us see our blessings when we often can't make them out.

2. Practice Acts of Kindness - "...34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' 40 And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' (Matthew 25:34-40)

3. Savor Life's Joys - "16 Rejoice always" (1 Thessalonian 4:16)

4. Thank a Mentor - "...greet all those who rule over you..." (Hebrews 13:24)

5. Learn to Forgive - "And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors." (Matthew 6:12)

6. Invest Time and Energy in Friends and Family - " Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so. Do not say to your neighbor, "Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it," When you have it with you" (Proverbs 3:27-28)

7. Take Care for your body - " He who has a slack hand becomes poor, But the hand of the diligent makes rich." (Proverbs 10:4)

8. Develop strategies for Coping with Stress and Hardships. "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:2-4)

• Trials produce patience in a believer. I heard a preacher once say that patience is what can get you through any trial. God promises to deliver and all we need to do is be patient and wait for it to come in it's timing.

The Time Mag also mentioned how religious faith help people cope. Very interesting...

Hope this has been enlightening....

Advertisers and their Silly Treasures!

Do you remember being a child when it didn’t take much to make you happy? It took little things to feel happy like watching Saturday Morning Cartoons or playing with lego or getting a new toy fire truck or a new Barbie Doll. We treasured such things.

But as you get older it takes bigger treasures to be happy. Sesame Street and Punk Rock Barbie doesn’t cut any more friends. We need new treasures like having a big house or fast car or a beautiful spouse or an exotic vacation or a degree…. I can go on and on but I think you get the point. They are bigger treasures in size and price. So where do we go to get these ‘happy fixes?’ We go to advertisers silly.

The Advertising industry is the one who sets our values and tell us what makes us happy and what we want. There are so many products on the market now. Apple just launched a new version of their IPOD! They will probaly say: “You want this!” “It’ll make you happy” “It might cost you but the cost of not having it is to much!” “Come on get it!” in not so many words. So we end up going and buying it and we think “WOW! This is the greatest thing that has happened to me in months, weeks or even hours.” But than the novelty wears off, we get bored and look for our next fix. Where to we got to get it? Advertisers silly!

Then the Ad industry comes up with a new model. They say, “Oh if you liked the old version you’ll love the new version!” “The old hassles are gone but now the new models have faster conveniences!” “You want it! Your life depends on it! Come and get it! It’ll make you happier than the old version!” So we fall for it and go buy it and our life is seems happy of a couple of weeks, month and even hours until we get bored and turn to the advertisers for the next ‘happy fix’ and the cycle continues on and on and on and on and on and on……….

Have you ever wanted something that will last? Something that will keeps us stimulated and not wear out or make us bored or will not get outdated with the latest version? How about an inexhaustible treasure? Will there is one. Jesus offers it to his followers in Luke 12:32-33:

“…. Your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor (notice it doesn’t say lazzy). Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where not thief comes near and no moths destroys.”

Not also is this treasure inexhaustible, it also has some safety features.

“…But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven where moth and rusts do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:20

I’ll take that treasure and not these silly ones please! I won’t be needing paper or plastic! Thank you!