Traveling to Dakota I will be non-posting for a week at least. This may be the last post for the year.
I wish everyone all the best at this season of remembrance. We will face the year to come and I can only encourage you by some wise people saying Quasi-wise things.
"We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake, not by mechanical aid, but by an infinite expectation of the dawn."
- Henry David Thoreau
The snow is gone from Illinois. Winter is sort of here and not. It’s like being in Kentucky for weather. If it keeps going too long like this the Magnolias will have been fooled into bloom. Then again that’s not so bad.
"The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself."
- Henry Miller
I will be spending Christmas with Family, Family going thru changes. Some of those are painful changes. I would like to remember when it wasn’t so. I would like to remember the former things. But, I will try to treasure the here and now.
"A memory is what is left when something happens and does not completely unhappen."
- Edward de Bono
I want to believe all will be well, that all will work out for the best. I want to believe that but sometimes I struggle. Optimism is hard work. So, I watch and wait and am thankful who holds the future in His hands.
"Let us not look back in anger or forward in fear, but around in awareness."
- James Thurber
I will or might have much to Blog on in the New Year. But, I must update my diary.
"Memory... is the diary that we all carry about with us."
- Oscar Wilde
God Bless us EVERY ONE!
Merry Christmas
See you soon……………………….
Friday, December 22, 2006
Eureka
I just discovered a wonderful blog that I have already bookmarked and recommend. You must see it.
Bill Barnwell is a 26-year-old pastor in Michigan. He is part of a fellowship (that's denomination to those of you from another time) that is eerily similar to the one under which I am credentialed. It appears that our theology would be as near identical as possible.
He is a deep thinker who has a way with the pen (or should I say keyboard).
His strong article, which was published on Lew Rockwell, has caused a great deal of buzz.
If you have NOT read it in its entirety you really must, particularly if you are in the arts and music.
It's time to take the lid off, or as I heard recently, get back to the basics.
Bill Barnwell is a 26-year-old pastor in Michigan. He is part of a fellowship (that's denomination to those of you from another time) that is eerily similar to the one under which I am credentialed. It appears that our theology would be as near identical as possible.
He is a deep thinker who has a way with the pen (or should I say keyboard).
His strong article, which was published on Lew Rockwell, has caused a great deal of buzz.
If you have NOT read it in its entirety you really must, particularly if you are in the arts and music.
It's time to take the lid off, or as I heard recently, get back to the basics.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Close all Churches
What if that were the mandate from a new ACLU driven Liberal Administration and congress in 2009? What if Churches were seen as anti-freedom and not relevant to society, so in response to a few complaints, all churches everywhere were closed by court order and all Staff had to become sanitation workers.
I know that's not going to happen, but stay with me here. IF it happened and 50 years goes by, will society be better or worse off than it is now?
I submit in 50 years we would be the same as we would have been with or without the church. My proof? Look at the last 50 years. Last Sunday in Church Barry Kolb said that the 1950s aren't coming back. I winced. The 1950s with it's implicit attempts at honor and morality (however veneered), the 1950s when swearing on your honor meant something. Gone? All this time the Church of Jesus has done what it always did, sang and preached. NET RESULT? No effect. 90% sexual activity before marriage, divorce and abortion in the church as high as in the culture. Every deviance exists in the church equal to what it does outside. Ergo, we have had no effect on the culture whatsoever.
I have been hearing one word from God as am waiting for him to develop what he wants to say thru me for 2007. That word is relevancy. Ron at Blessed Economist just wrote about it, the Pope just spoke about it. John Armstrong just wrote a post about it. I think that may be the word for 2007: Make a difference or disappear.
We in the Church (and I love the Church) have become as close to irrelevant to the society at large as anything can be. Our (the Church’s) influence on humanity is about the same as the Flat Earth Society. We just don't matter anymore. Worse we have become targets of spite and sardonic humor. What hurts the most, we did it to ourselves.
Oh, those of us IN the Church sure think we matter. We read each other's press releases. In Reality - We don't matter at all. I used to believe the Church of Jesus was that restriner against the man of Lawlessness as is described in 2 Thessalonians 2:7. I no longer do. We don't restrain anything. In fact if the man of lawlessness is among us we make him a Pastor or some other church leader. As I read the whole chapter of 2 Thessalonians 2 I think we are in the dead center of this time. It is only the Holy Spirit living in each person alone that restrains. The institutional Church as we understand it in America is without hope, in the world outside of the Covenent. Eph 2:12
This must change or why bother?
We have become neither salt nor light to the world.
We are an inert ingredient.
I know that's not going to happen, but stay with me here. IF it happened and 50 years goes by, will society be better or worse off than it is now?
I submit in 50 years we would be the same as we would have been with or without the church. My proof? Look at the last 50 years. Last Sunday in Church Barry Kolb said that the 1950s aren't coming back. I winced. The 1950s with it's implicit attempts at honor and morality (however veneered), the 1950s when swearing on your honor meant something. Gone? All this time the Church of Jesus has done what it always did, sang and preached. NET RESULT? No effect. 90% sexual activity before marriage, divorce and abortion in the church as high as in the culture. Every deviance exists in the church equal to what it does outside. Ergo, we have had no effect on the culture whatsoever.
I have been hearing one word from God as am waiting for him to develop what he wants to say thru me for 2007. That word is relevancy. Ron at Blessed Economist just wrote about it, the Pope just spoke about it. John Armstrong just wrote a post about it. I think that may be the word for 2007: Make a difference or disappear.
We in the Church (and I love the Church) have become as close to irrelevant to the society at large as anything can be. Our (the Church’s) influence on humanity is about the same as the Flat Earth Society. We just don't matter anymore. Worse we have become targets of spite and sardonic humor. What hurts the most, we did it to ourselves.
Oh, those of us IN the Church sure think we matter. We read each other's press releases. In Reality - We don't matter at all. I used to believe the Church of Jesus was that restriner against the man of Lawlessness as is described in 2 Thessalonians 2:7. I no longer do. We don't restrain anything. In fact if the man of lawlessness is among us we make him a Pastor or some other church leader. As I read the whole chapter of 2 Thessalonians 2 I think we are in the dead center of this time. It is only the Holy Spirit living in each person alone that restrains. The institutional Church as we understand it in America is without hope, in the world outside of the Covenent. Eph 2:12
This must change or why bother?
We have become neither salt nor light to the world.
We are an inert ingredient.
Massachusetts Takes Action on Killer Disease
(AP) BOSTON Massachusetts could become the first state to ban the HIV-spreading behavior of anal intercourse if a bill to be filed today wins legislative support.
Massachusetts is considering reviving the puritanical sodomoy laws banning homosexual men from engaging in anal sex -- a move some in the gay community are giving a thumbs-down.
State Rep. Peter Koutoujian, D-Waltham, co-chairman of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Public Health, filed a bill Tuesday to make Massachusetts the first state to impose the ban.
"It's basically killing people," Koutoujian said.
He said health officials have known about the "evils" of the HIV virus for years. He said two recent developments -- greater access to condoms and a move by some in the gay community to shy away from casual sex -- now make a statewide ban possible.
"People are dying and suffering from AIDS all around us and anal intercourse is something that is easily replaceable," he said. The HIV virus can be spread when homosexual men engage in casual, unprotected sex.
Oh Wait, I got a wrong version, here's the real one.
What does this mean???
Massachusetts is considering reviving the puritanical sodomoy laws banning homosexual men from engaging in anal sex -- a move some in the gay community are giving a thumbs-down.
State Rep. Peter Koutoujian, D-Waltham, co-chairman of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Public Health, filed a bill Tuesday to make Massachusetts the first state to impose the ban.
"It's basically killing people," Koutoujian said.
He said health officials have known about the "evils" of the HIV virus for years. He said two recent developments -- greater access to condoms and a move by some in the gay community to shy away from casual sex -- now make a statewide ban possible.
"People are dying and suffering from AIDS all around us and anal intercourse is something that is easily replaceable," he said. The HIV virus can be spread when homosexual men engage in casual, unprotected sex.
Oh Wait, I got a wrong version, here's the real one.
What does this mean???
Nativity is Pretty Good
Peggy and I went to see the Nativity last Saturday PM.
It was very traditional in theology. I was ok with that. It was also beautiful in it's portrayal.
For me the most interesting two situations in the movie was the relationship between Mary and Joseph and the manger scene.
Both had impact on me.
The rest was just really pretty good.
What breaks my heart is that according to this report the movie isn't doing very well. That's too bad. It'a pretty good flick.
It was very traditional in theology. I was ok with that. It was also beautiful in it's portrayal.
For me the most interesting two situations in the movie was the relationship between Mary and Joseph and the manger scene.
Both had impact on me.
The rest was just really pretty good.
What breaks my heart is that according to this report the movie isn't doing very well. That's too bad. It'a pretty good flick.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
What is happening end of Feb??
Hearing from God regarding 2006 in late Dec of 2005, many things were spoken by the spirit responding to the zeitgeist of the times. There was a lot of fear among people, even christians, at the end of 2005. We forget what things were like at the end of 2005. Katrina had just happened. Things were very uncertain. Fear was in the air. Here are some areas where the Lord wanted at that time to allay or help get perspective. In fact, the beginning of the prophetic spoke most about fear and reaction to fear. You can read it for yourself.
NATURAL OCCURANCES
We had just come off the biggest hurricane season in years. Predictions abounded that because of global warming we would have more hurricanes in 2006. God said no. He did say however that we would have other radical weather. Most tornadoes in history, flooding, and rainfall. His word was intended to get those with ears to hear off the pronouncements of Man and on to what God says. Are there yet earthquakes?
Men’s hearts have been failing them for fear, even in the Church, about bird flu.
If you don’t remember this you should. I was one who in the flesh believed we were all gonna die. We didn’t. There were some minor outbreaks here and there. A couple hundred die. But, this was an important reassurance for Father to give us.
CULTURE
God cares about the culture in which we live. He speaks against the areas where our culture is out of line. He judges those things that must be judged.
My judgment will come against corrupt media in 2006
Many people were confused and discouraged by the dominance of mainstream media at the end of 2005 and on the opinions of others. God wanted to tell us he would do what needed to be done. That’s called RESTING in God. He did and will
In 2006 I will initiate the beginnings of an educational implosion.
There were more articles, news programs, news stories, exposé’s of the corrupt public school system in 2006 than ever before. At the end of 2005 many were dissatisfied. Now in revolt.
People have given up on cities.
That was a headline at the end of 2005. But, God wanted to reassure his people that he doesn’t forget or condemn. Cities are becoming a new destination for many people to live.
I will continue to expose those workers of darkness in media
The big stars at the end of 2005 in shock jock radio. Name one who is still on the air in a big way. God cleaned house.
The music industry which possesses an antichrist spirit will be cleansed.
At the end of 2005 there were lawsuits and raii infringement issues that reached a fevered pitch. I believe this word must have come to reassure those in the music business that God has it all in hand. This is a case of me knowing nothing in the flesh of these things but hearing it clearly for someone who would read this. I would be interested if anyone who did read this could tell me what this meant and why. None of these things are for naught.
The Economy
There were all kinds of prognostications at the end of 2005. Few were positive. Cost of Oil and Katrina and the cost of War were all going to take us under. Then there was a weak stock market. Some were saying the stock market was going to take a major dive in 2006. The spirit of the day was doom and gloom. But GOD had other ideas.
This will be a year of restabilization.
It was
General Motors will face bankruptcy
It did
The employment of my people in America will remain about the same
It does
Nearly a 25% decrease in housing starts.
There was
At the end, the economy, although shaken will continue to be good.
It is
Inflation concerns and tighter credit will cause fear
It does
Oil prices
Stable and falling in real value
Media empires
Collapsing
There will be a major scare in the stock market
There was
POLITICS (God puts up and takes down)
I put up whom I will and I take down whom I will.
Boy did he (at the end of 2005 it looked like the R's had a lock)
Judge Alito will be confirmed.
Yes he was, but at the end of 2005 conventional wisdom was he would not be, Roberts was enough, filibuster
departures from the Presidents administration
There were, but Bush kept saying, no changes.
The fall elections will be of little consequence.
Still remains to be seen. What appears to be change may not be
Your President Bush will be protected
There were assassination predictions at the end of 2005
I am purifying government. The scandals
The rumbling under the floorboards in the government was that these scandals would pass and have little effect. God said, it’s a purifying. Boy did he..
All the issues below were up in the air at the end of 2005
Patriot act – Passes but with modifications YES
Dems had said that there was no way in heck it would at all,
Social Security – no change in 2006 YES
Big priority at the end of 2005, lost of smoke and mirrors
Health Care Reform – serious talk begins YES
At the end of 2005 no glimmer of this conversation which begins again
Tax Reform – will continue but still not enough YES
In Dec of 2005 everything was about rolling back tax reform, more passed
Global Affairs
Things happening globally are of concern to God, Otherwise why did Jesus warn about Wars and rumors of war. Why didn’t he just talk about souls being saved. God wants us to be confident when the rumors start.
The long questioned WMD issue will be settled
The drumbeat at the end of 2005 was that Bush lied. He didn’t. BUT, WMD deniers will never be convinced. Then we have holocaust deniers too, same thing. Facts don’t matter to deniers.
Iraq will settle down. I will raise up leaders for this season of restoration.
At the end of 2005 it seemed like no election would happen, no government organized, no national representation that this would be without any hope. Now, while things are still a mess, there is a government, a police force, national representation and a glimmer of hope that the leadership of Iraq will solidify.
An alliance of Iran and Russia’s Putin
At the end of 2005 Russia still seemed to be the USA’s friend. The real colors of our “friendship” have begun to be revealed..
Afghanistan will require new interventions
At the end of 2005 it seemed like Kahrzi and government had things well in hand.
As a result Terrorist efforts will be come less frequent but more deadly
At the end of 2005 people expected a ramp up of terror bombings. I think of the Wedding Bombing in Jordan as a deadly example.
I have raised my hand against the UN.
2005 many believed that the UN could play a key role in solving the worlds problems, it has wider and deeper been shown for what it really is, an inept corrupt useless entity.
I will judge North Korea for the sake of a Christian South Korea
2005 many believed that North Korea might attack or be a danger. The paper tiger they really are and the desperate circumstance of their people is the real story today.
China and India will continue to ascend.
2005 there were questions how far these countries could go. The answer is further than we thought.
I have placed a mantle of peace over my promised land, Israel.
2005 Sharon stroke, civil war potential, Gaza in flames, Arafat gone. It looked bad. But, despite the brief war with Hezbollah 2006 was peaceful.
His Church
At the end of 2005 people in the Church at large were asking what was going to happen in unity. What would bring revival? Where was God in all this? What God said wasn’t a word of peace peace. In fact the last year has brought exactly what God said it would bring.
To date we have only lost 3 of consequence
The other question is, do we consider the fall of Ted Haggard a "Loss of a Major Leader"? Is the word accurate but misundestood? Did it have to mean death. I’ll wait it out. There are still 14 days yet in 2006.
In waiting on the Lord for 2007, I’m not getting much vision past the end of February. I don’t know what that means if anything. Last year it was wide open. Revelation flowed. Now it seems like things have closed up after February. I’ll still wait. More coming.
What does this mean?
Is something happening in Feb or early March that changes everything? Something really big?
I'm still waiting.
NATURAL OCCURANCES
We had just come off the biggest hurricane season in years. Predictions abounded that because of global warming we would have more hurricanes in 2006. God said no. He did say however that we would have other radical weather. Most tornadoes in history, flooding, and rainfall. His word was intended to get those with ears to hear off the pronouncements of Man and on to what God says. Are there yet earthquakes?
Men’s hearts have been failing them for fear, even in the Church, about bird flu.
If you don’t remember this you should. I was one who in the flesh believed we were all gonna die. We didn’t. There were some minor outbreaks here and there. A couple hundred die. But, this was an important reassurance for Father to give us.
CULTURE
God cares about the culture in which we live. He speaks against the areas where our culture is out of line. He judges those things that must be judged.
My judgment will come against corrupt media in 2006
Many people were confused and discouraged by the dominance of mainstream media at the end of 2005 and on the opinions of others. God wanted to tell us he would do what needed to be done. That’s called RESTING in God. He did and will
In 2006 I will initiate the beginnings of an educational implosion.
There were more articles, news programs, news stories, exposé’s of the corrupt public school system in 2006 than ever before. At the end of 2005 many were dissatisfied. Now in revolt.
People have given up on cities.
That was a headline at the end of 2005. But, God wanted to reassure his people that he doesn’t forget or condemn. Cities are becoming a new destination for many people to live.
I will continue to expose those workers of darkness in media
The big stars at the end of 2005 in shock jock radio. Name one who is still on the air in a big way. God cleaned house.
The music industry which possesses an antichrist spirit will be cleansed.
At the end of 2005 there were lawsuits and raii infringement issues that reached a fevered pitch. I believe this word must have come to reassure those in the music business that God has it all in hand. This is a case of me knowing nothing in the flesh of these things but hearing it clearly for someone who would read this. I would be interested if anyone who did read this could tell me what this meant and why. None of these things are for naught.
The Economy
There were all kinds of prognostications at the end of 2005. Few were positive. Cost of Oil and Katrina and the cost of War were all going to take us under. Then there was a weak stock market. Some were saying the stock market was going to take a major dive in 2006. The spirit of the day was doom and gloom. But GOD had other ideas.
This will be a year of restabilization.
It was
General Motors will face bankruptcy
It did
The employment of my people in America will remain about the same
It does
Nearly a 25% decrease in housing starts.
There was
At the end, the economy, although shaken will continue to be good.
It is
Inflation concerns and tighter credit will cause fear
It does
Oil prices
Stable and falling in real value
Media empires
Collapsing
There will be a major scare in the stock market
There was
POLITICS (God puts up and takes down)
I put up whom I will and I take down whom I will.
Boy did he (at the end of 2005 it looked like the R's had a lock)
Judge Alito will be confirmed.
Yes he was, but at the end of 2005 conventional wisdom was he would not be, Roberts was enough, filibuster
departures from the Presidents administration
There were, but Bush kept saying, no changes.
The fall elections will be of little consequence.
Still remains to be seen. What appears to be change may not be
Your President Bush will be protected
There were assassination predictions at the end of 2005
I am purifying government. The scandals
The rumbling under the floorboards in the government was that these scandals would pass and have little effect. God said, it’s a purifying. Boy did he..
All the issues below were up in the air at the end of 2005
Patriot act – Passes but with modifications YES
Dems had said that there was no way in heck it would at all,
Social Security – no change in 2006 YES
Big priority at the end of 2005, lost of smoke and mirrors
Health Care Reform – serious talk begins YES
At the end of 2005 no glimmer of this conversation which begins again
Tax Reform – will continue but still not enough YES
In Dec of 2005 everything was about rolling back tax reform, more passed
Global Affairs
Things happening globally are of concern to God, Otherwise why did Jesus warn about Wars and rumors of war. Why didn’t he just talk about souls being saved. God wants us to be confident when the rumors start.
The long questioned WMD issue will be settled
The drumbeat at the end of 2005 was that Bush lied. He didn’t. BUT, WMD deniers will never be convinced. Then we have holocaust deniers too, same thing. Facts don’t matter to deniers.
Iraq will settle down. I will raise up leaders for this season of restoration.
At the end of 2005 it seemed like no election would happen, no government organized, no national representation that this would be without any hope. Now, while things are still a mess, there is a government, a police force, national representation and a glimmer of hope that the leadership of Iraq will solidify.
An alliance of Iran and Russia’s Putin
At the end of 2005 Russia still seemed to be the USA’s friend. The real colors of our “friendship” have begun to be revealed..
Afghanistan will require new interventions
At the end of 2005 it seemed like Kahrzi and government had things well in hand.
As a result Terrorist efforts will be come less frequent but more deadly
At the end of 2005 people expected a ramp up of terror bombings. I think of the Wedding Bombing in Jordan as a deadly example.
I have raised my hand against the UN.
2005 many believed that the UN could play a key role in solving the worlds problems, it has wider and deeper been shown for what it really is, an inept corrupt useless entity.
I will judge North Korea for the sake of a Christian South Korea
2005 many believed that North Korea might attack or be a danger. The paper tiger they really are and the desperate circumstance of their people is the real story today.
China and India will continue to ascend.
2005 there were questions how far these countries could go. The answer is further than we thought.
I have placed a mantle of peace over my promised land, Israel.
2005 Sharon stroke, civil war potential, Gaza in flames, Arafat gone. It looked bad. But, despite the brief war with Hezbollah 2006 was peaceful.
His Church
At the end of 2005 people in the Church at large were asking what was going to happen in unity. What would bring revival? Where was God in all this? What God said wasn’t a word of peace peace. In fact the last year has brought exactly what God said it would bring.
- I am forcing a wedge into the body of Christ
- The middle ground is disappearing.
- Lukewarm is becoming vomit
- The purifying I am doing is not just for people; it’s for the church at large.
- Overt direct persecution of those of faith will accelerate.
- Polarization of those who say they believe
- Spiritual deception from high places
To date we have only lost 3 of consequence
- Zola Levitt
- Ted Engstrom
- William Sloane Coffin
The other question is, do we consider the fall of Ted Haggard a "Loss of a Major Leader"? Is the word accurate but misundestood? Did it have to mean death. I’ll wait it out. There are still 14 days yet in 2006.
In waiting on the Lord for 2007, I’m not getting much vision past the end of February. I don’t know what that means if anything. Last year it was wide open. Revelation flowed. Now it seems like things have closed up after February. I’ll still wait. More coming.
What does this mean?
Is something happening in Feb or early March that changes everything? Something really big?
I'm still waiting.
Christmas Drives Me Crazy
Saw this, toooo Funny. With Attribution:
* 1. Schizophrenia --- Do You Hear What I Hear?
* 2. Multiple Personality Disorder --- We Three Kings Disoriented Are
* 3. Dementia --- I Think I’ll be Home for Christmas
* 4. Narcissistic --- Hark the Herald Angels Sing About Me
* 5. Manic --- Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Stores and Office and Town and Cars and Buses and Trucks and Trees and Airplanes.....
* 6. Paranoid --- Santa Claus is Coming to Town to Get Me
* 7. Borderline Personality Disorder --- Thoughts of Roasting on an Open Fire
* 8. Personality Disorder --- You Better Watch Out, I’m Gonna Cry, I’m Gonna Pout, Maybe I’ll Tell You Why
* 9. Attention Deficit Disorder --- Silent night, Holy oooh look at the
airplane - can I have a chocolate - why is France so far away? - all is calm
* 10. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder --- Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle
Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells,
Jingle,Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle
Bells , Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle
Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle
Bells,! Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle
Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
I hope Jesus is a Bears Fan
So, the news is that Tank Johnson, who has fumbled more off field balls in the last week than it is possible to imagine, is going to be playing next week and as long as we play even and into the SuperBowl.
This after a week of problems of illegal guns, raids and his bodyguard being killed at 2AM in a VIP room downtown Chicago. None of this is good.
I heard Lovie Smith, Coach of the Bears speak on this last night. I knew right away. They need him. The Bears are a little light right now and can use all the help they can get. He'll be back on the team.
So when today I heard the announcement that the Tankmeister was back I actually thought it was a good play. Winning is real important and Lovie Smith's job is to win. Building character should have happened in High School. This is pro ball. Whatever character Tank does or doesn't have is already in his DNA.. Win the stupid game.
So, this afternoon we hear the big news. Jerry Angelo GM of the Bears announced that the Tank was back on the team. I'll bet Mr Tank will be very very good the rest of the season, he'll play hard. So, all in all it was a right move.
But, as to this comment: Jerry said, "The decision to keep Johnson on the team was not based on the playoffs".
This is on video tape. In front of God and everyone.
Now in the Bible there are admonitions about the really bad thing liars recieve in punishment. Lakes of fire and all that. But these are the playoffs Lord. We need this win.
I only Hope Jesus is a Bears fan and can overlooke this one little, let's say slightly adjusted for media, remark.
Go Bears!
Amen
This after a week of problems of illegal guns, raids and his bodyguard being killed at 2AM in a VIP room downtown Chicago. None of this is good.
I heard Lovie Smith, Coach of the Bears speak on this last night. I knew right away. They need him. The Bears are a little light right now and can use all the help they can get. He'll be back on the team.
So when today I heard the announcement that the Tankmeister was back I actually thought it was a good play. Winning is real important and Lovie Smith's job is to win. Building character should have happened in High School. This is pro ball. Whatever character Tank does or doesn't have is already in his DNA.. Win the stupid game.
So, this afternoon we hear the big news. Jerry Angelo GM of the Bears announced that the Tank was back on the team. I'll bet Mr Tank will be very very good the rest of the season, he'll play hard. So, all in all it was a right move.
But, as to this comment: Jerry said, "The decision to keep Johnson on the team was not based on the playoffs".
This is on video tape. In front of God and everyone.
Now in the Bible there are admonitions about the really bad thing liars recieve in punishment. Lakes of fire and all that. But these are the playoffs Lord. We need this win.
I only Hope Jesus is a Bears fan and can overlooke this one little, let's say slightly adjusted for media, remark.
Go Bears!
Amen
Holy Resiliency
Last night I met a couple who had two beautiful children in tow. Oriental. The Children not the parents. They were kids who had been adopted from an orphanage or something.
That’s not the story. The story is how, not many months out of hell, these kids are bouncing back. Wounds and all, they have light in their little eyes. They are resilient. Kids are resilient. That’s why parents seem to have no trouble getting a divorce, “Kids are resilient” they tell each other and go about being selfish and bullheaded.
Yes, I am one who believes parents should stay together for the sake of the kids. Unless there is physical danger.
Those little kids will always carry some scar on their soul. Jesus can and will heal it but they will always walk with a slight limp emotionally.
The real gift God gives them is the gift of Holy Resiliency. Bouncing back from difficulty.
So, when do we lose this? When do we reach the stage where everything that happens to us is a huge disaster? I know people who will stay in bondage to events and circumstance because they love the attentions they get in travail and they reject the gift God wants to give them in Holy Resiliency. I have lots of Bible bullets I could quote. 2 Timothy 2 is a good place. But I won’t.
Sufficient to say, the whiny folks you see on the evening news after some little thing complaining about their circumstances, that somebody did em wrong, that their feelings were hurt and oh by the way where’s my attorney’s phone number.
I think the world needs a dose of Holy Resiliency. Last Sunday my Pastor and Friend Barry Kolb said something I wish weren’t true. He said, the 1950’s aren’t coming back. Making a deal over a beer and a handshake, being stoic in the face of great pain and suffering. Not good news.
How did we lose all that? I sound like an old guy. Maybe the 50’s weren’t perfect. I’ll submit they weren’t. But having this thin-skinned wounded generation who can’t take an occasional sling or arrow of outrageous fortune without being destroyed and complaining about it to everyone is out of balance. Many prayer requests I read are really a lack of Holy Resiliency.
My hope and prayer for you and yours is that you develop the gift of Holy Resiliency.
I may preach this. I’m a bit ticked off at all the whiners. I’m more ticked off that I am one sometimes.
Lord give me the Gift of Holy Resiliency.
That’s not the story. The story is how, not many months out of hell, these kids are bouncing back. Wounds and all, they have light in their little eyes. They are resilient. Kids are resilient. That’s why parents seem to have no trouble getting a divorce, “Kids are resilient” they tell each other and go about being selfish and bullheaded.
Yes, I am one who believes parents should stay together for the sake of the kids. Unless there is physical danger.
Those little kids will always carry some scar on their soul. Jesus can and will heal it but they will always walk with a slight limp emotionally.
The real gift God gives them is the gift of Holy Resiliency. Bouncing back from difficulty.
So, when do we lose this? When do we reach the stage where everything that happens to us is a huge disaster? I know people who will stay in bondage to events and circumstance because they love the attentions they get in travail and they reject the gift God wants to give them in Holy Resiliency. I have lots of Bible bullets I could quote. 2 Timothy 2 is a good place. But I won’t.
Sufficient to say, the whiny folks you see on the evening news after some little thing complaining about their circumstances, that somebody did em wrong, that their feelings were hurt and oh by the way where’s my attorney’s phone number.
I think the world needs a dose of Holy Resiliency. Last Sunday my Pastor and Friend Barry Kolb said something I wish weren’t true. He said, the 1950’s aren’t coming back. Making a deal over a beer and a handshake, being stoic in the face of great pain and suffering. Not good news.
How did we lose all that? I sound like an old guy. Maybe the 50’s weren’t perfect. I’ll submit they weren’t. But having this thin-skinned wounded generation who can’t take an occasional sling or arrow of outrageous fortune without being destroyed and complaining about it to everyone is out of balance. Many prayer requests I read are really a lack of Holy Resiliency.
My hope and prayer for you and yours is that you develop the gift of Holy Resiliency.
I may preach this. I’m a bit ticked off at all the whiners. I’m more ticked off that I am one sometimes.
Lord give me the Gift of Holy Resiliency.
Northern Lights Spectacular
This morning I opened a link sent to me by Ken which blew me away.
I have always been in awe of the Northern Lights. Have sat in bitter cold and watched with mouth open as the heavens explode and crackle.
So, for a glimpse into what life was like in North Dakota last Thursday Night at 2 in the morning, look at these pictures. They are amazing.
Also, his website with other pictures from the prairie is worth looking at. This is the kind of land I grew up on.
I have always been in awe of the Northern Lights. Have sat in bitter cold and watched with mouth open as the heavens explode and crackle.
So, for a glimpse into what life was like in North Dakota last Thursday Night at 2 in the morning, look at these pictures. They are amazing.
Also, his website with other pictures from the prairie is worth looking at. This is the kind of land I grew up on.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Studying for Finals
In a little over a week or so we will enter a new year. 2007.
I have so many things that “Must” be done by then. Actually, most of these things are self-imposed. I don’t HAVE to do them. But if I don’t, I’ll pay later. So, I’m wrapping things up for 2006.
It’s like college.
I kept up with assignments so the idea of studying for finals always seemed a bit strange to me. Others would be up all night. Wracking their brains, drinking coffee and other things to stay awake.
Then, the next morning bleary eyed show up and hack thru the test. Getting interesting grades.
A = Average
B = Better
C = Courageous
D = Distinctive
F = Fabulous
I was a Fabulous student.
I never got it. Oh, I studied; I had term papers with the ink not yet dry sometimes. But mostly I slept thru preparation for finals. I thought, whatever I don’t know, it’s too late to learn.
But in life and in school, a little every day gets me to the end. There’s always a last minute flurry to get things done. But, usually it’s odds and ends. Not as one young lad whose term paper was due the next day was planning at 3PM to get a start on it “pretty soon”.
I need a nap by 3PM.
Always did, Still do.
I have so many things that “Must” be done by then. Actually, most of these things are self-imposed. I don’t HAVE to do them. But if I don’t, I’ll pay later. So, I’m wrapping things up for 2006.
It’s like college.
I kept up with assignments so the idea of studying for finals always seemed a bit strange to me. Others would be up all night. Wracking their brains, drinking coffee and other things to stay awake.
Then, the next morning bleary eyed show up and hack thru the test. Getting interesting grades.
A = Average
B = Better
C = Courageous
D = Distinctive
F = Fabulous
I was a Fabulous student.
I never got it. Oh, I studied; I had term papers with the ink not yet dry sometimes. But mostly I slept thru preparation for finals. I thought, whatever I don’t know, it’s too late to learn.
But in life and in school, a little every day gets me to the end. There’s always a last minute flurry to get things done. But, usually it’s odds and ends. Not as one young lad whose term paper was due the next day was planning at 3PM to get a start on it “pretty soon”.
I need a nap by 3PM.
Always did, Still do.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Talent Isn’t Everything
I won’t bore you with the old Calvin Coolidge quote about Persistence.
I’m not completely sold on everything about his quote. I have known some very persistent people who didn’t make it. I have known many educated and bright people who squandered their genius and education like it was small change. So do you.
But, most legendary are those extraordinarily talented people who fail in spades. Talented, educated, bright people with terrible flaws that causes them to crash and burn in life. They torment me.
Coolidge’s quote will live on after my lame observations.
Tank Johnson, a powerful talented player on the Bears football team has just self destructed. Terril Owens of The Cowboys threw a tantrum and spit in a teammates face. Spoiled brats. Lack of character. Our professional sports system systematically destroys more people than it helps. This is a result of our big pay for play system in professional sports. Baseball long ago crossed this barrier. The carnage along the first base line is horrid.
What of “Real” life? I have so many examples that this could be one of Gene’s really long (ergo unread) blogs. The problem for me is all of these are real people with names and addresses and lawyers they know. It will do me no good and potential harm to talk directly of these people.
I think as I get older and I see these shipwrecks it becomes so clear to me what could have been done earlier to avoid the disasters that are left on the rocks of life. Not avoiding the conflict, avoiding the disasters.
Skilled and talented people who can’t do the job. They just go the easy route and hope you won’t notice.
I have been these people. The trouble with being bold and stepping out is you fail in full view of everyone else. Like our current national sweetheart, Barak Obama who represents whatever you think he does to you. I mention it because in business and life there are people who successfully do nothing and keep their head down with the hope that you might believe they know what they are doing and get away with doing nothing.
I had such a one that worked for me. The upper management of the company in telling me how good he was often said as an appellation, “He dresses well”. Like that mattered when in fact he couldn’t do the job.
Oh, they get found out eventually. Not before becoming a major disappointment. If you never do anything no can criticize you. It becomes the parable of talents not used.
Talent, Skill, Knowledge, Education, Smarts AND Persistence and just a little bit o Luck is everything.
So get it and stick with it.
I’m not completely sold on everything about his quote. I have known some very persistent people who didn’t make it. I have known many educated and bright people who squandered their genius and education like it was small change. So do you.
But, most legendary are those extraordinarily talented people who fail in spades. Talented, educated, bright people with terrible flaws that causes them to crash and burn in life. They torment me.
Coolidge’s quote will live on after my lame observations.
Tank Johnson, a powerful talented player on the Bears football team has just self destructed. Terril Owens of The Cowboys threw a tantrum and spit in a teammates face. Spoiled brats. Lack of character. Our professional sports system systematically destroys more people than it helps. This is a result of our big pay for play system in professional sports. Baseball long ago crossed this barrier. The carnage along the first base line is horrid.
What of “Real” life? I have so many examples that this could be one of Gene’s really long (ergo unread) blogs. The problem for me is all of these are real people with names and addresses and lawyers they know. It will do me no good and potential harm to talk directly of these people.
I think as I get older and I see these shipwrecks it becomes so clear to me what could have been done earlier to avoid the disasters that are left on the rocks of life. Not avoiding the conflict, avoiding the disasters.
- Marriages ill conceived
- Trysts without sense
- Skilled but without vision.
- Able but unable to draw others into the plan
Skilled and talented people who can’t do the job. They just go the easy route and hope you won’t notice.
I have been these people. The trouble with being bold and stepping out is you fail in full view of everyone else. Like our current national sweetheart, Barak Obama who represents whatever you think he does to you. I mention it because in business and life there are people who successfully do nothing and keep their head down with the hope that you might believe they know what they are doing and get away with doing nothing.
I had such a one that worked for me. The upper management of the company in telling me how good he was often said as an appellation, “He dresses well”. Like that mattered when in fact he couldn’t do the job.
Oh, they get found out eventually. Not before becoming a major disappointment. If you never do anything no can criticize you. It becomes the parable of talents not used.
Talent, Skill, Knowledge, Education, Smarts AND Persistence and just a little bit o Luck is everything.
So get it and stick with it.
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