Sic transit gloria mundi

The recent funeral of another oppressive dictator called to memory a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, “When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it--always.”  I have seen the fall of many dictators in my day; Nikolai Chauchesku in Romania, Manuel Noriega in Panama, Saddam Hussein in Iraq.  Recently, in quick succession, we observed the fall of such men such as Hosni Mubarak in Egypt and Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi.  Such exits are never pretty and often gruesome.  However, the seductive temptation of power continues to lure people to compromise integrity, morals and ethics often to do whatever is necessary to grasp power.  We see this scenario acted out continually in national politics, local institutions as well as church and family systems as people desperately want power, influence, attention or approval as a way of feeling loved. 

The news from around the world or locally can often cause one to despair as we hear of people exercising power or control over others in an unethical manner.  However one must remember truths like the quote from Gandhi but even more comforting are words from the master of the universe spoken through his prophets.  Such as Isaiah 40:23, “He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.” 

In his timeless best seller, ‘The Road Less Traveled’, Dr. M. Scott Peck writes, “There are two kinds of power: political and spiritual. “Political power is the capacity to coerce others, overtly or covertly, to do one’s will.” It derives from a person’s position and not from the person. The capacity of spiritual power is the “capacity to make decisions with maximum awareness. Most people most of the time make decisions with little awareness of what they are doing.” But, with spiritual maturity, we can. ”We can come to power.” Those who have “succeeded in coming into alignment with the mind of God” have a joyful humility. “The experience of spiritual power is also terrifying.” Our greater awareness may involve us in complex decision-making situations. Those with spiritual power can make those decisions wisely and with awareness and not shrink from the job. Another problem with spiritual power is aloneness (not loneliness). Politically powerful people have their cronies; spiritually powerful people “will likely have no one in his or her circle of acquaintances with whom to share such depth of understanding.”

As Dr. Peck eloquently summarizes the result of the seduction of power we are reminded that all of us are seduced in this area in one way or another.  People will continue to seek to control, manipulate or gain popularity to make themselves feel powerful as a way of feeling fulfilled or loved.  Power, the capacity to influence others, is a potent factor that can easily be used for good or bad.  Let us discern and teach the important difference in power.  Political power is the capacity to influence others by one’s money or dominant position.  Spiritual power is the capacity to influence others by the loveliness of one’s being.  Let us not despair but continue to seek, support, and exemplify the power that is spiritual.  Political power comes from men and leads to pride which eventually leads to destruction.  Psalm 33:10 tells us “The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes.”   Spiritual power comes from God and leads to humility which leads to exaltation.   This is best illustrated in Philippians 2 as the humility of Jesus is portrayed in his complete submission to the Father’s plan, even when it resulted in his own death.  “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”  Now there is an example and a leader to follow. 

Happiness is a Choice

Earlier I was visiting a church member in the hospital. He was battling cancer bit had a positive attitude. Those times cause one to focus on the matters that are most important to life. I noticed a book beside his bed. The book was, How we Choose to be Happy. We discussed the importance of attitudes. I have always believed in the importance deliberately being in charge and having a choice with one’s attitude, philosophy and approach to life. I often tell people, “I am know I am going to have fun doing (whatever the activity may be). They will ask, how do you know you will enjoy it. I respond by telling them, “I know I will have fun because I am planning on it.” Later he gave me a copy as a gift. The writers made an extensive three year study of extremely happy people. They discovered nine choices that people who are extremely happy make. I share them as I hope it will be helpful.


The Nine Choices of Extremely Happy People (from ‘How We Choose to be Happy’)

Intention: The active desire and commitment to be happy and the decision to consciously choose attitudes and behaviors that lead to happiness over unhappiness. Regardless of what happens or the circumstances present, we make a conscious choice to be happy or unhappy.

Accountability involves making the choice to create the life you want to live—to assume responsibility for your actions, thoughts and feelings, and the emphatic refusal to blame others or view yourself as a victim. It is okay to grieve, but being a victim gives the power to others. Learning to let go moves us toward happiness.

Identification is the ongoing process of looking deeply within yourself to assess what makes you uniquely happy apart from what you are told by others should make you happy.

Centrality is the non-negotiable insistence on making central to your life that which brings you happiness. There will always be pressure to meet someone else’s expectations. This is about finding balance to care for those we love and take care of ourselves.

Recasting/Reframing involves the two steps that transform stressful problems and trauma into something meaningful, important and a source of emotional energy. We need to dive into our emotions and search for a way to melt the “emotional pot” and recast it into something that can help us move forward in a positive manner.

Options say we look at life as adventure, full of possibilities. This allows us to create multiple scenarios, open for new possibilities and adapt a flexible approach to life’s journey.

Appreciation in the moment is about making the choice to appreciate deeply your life and the people in it. This requires us to stay in the present moment and deliberately choose to turn each experience into something precious. This involves gratitude for the things we have without focusing our attention on the things we don’t have.

Giving and expecting nothing in return. We make the choice to share with friends, family, our community, and the world at large without any expectation of a return. This habit allows us to let go of the “what’s in it for me” mindset and just give in to being generous.

Truthfulness involves honesty and integrity. It means that what we say and do match. We do not allow people, society or circumstances to dictate how we respond. It means we have clarity around our internal standards and values, and we live in a manner congruent with them so we do not allow societal, workplace or family demands to violate our internal contracts.

*Adopted from How we Choose to be Happy by Rick Foster and Greg Hicks

Three Unique Gifts

Christmas is the season of gift giving. Often lost in the rush to find the perfect gift (or gift card) is the original gift of Christmas. God gave His only son that we might be transformed by placing our faith in Him and not perish. In remembering the birth of Jesus we will see manger scenes, Christmas plays and hear the familiar story of Magi (men of wisdom) from the East who somehow followed a star and found the place where the child was. The scripture tells us of their action in giving the familiar trio of gifts in Matthew 2:11,“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.”

We have grown up hearing of that story of the miraculous birth of Jesus and the following events. As a child, I remember being a narrator in elementary school memorizing reciting this account from the book of Luke, “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Yes, this was a Christmas a play in public school. Times have certainly changed but that is another story.


No matter what our faith background may be, we all have familiar memories of the timeless story. However, many have no idea of the significance of the gifts from the wise men. They brought treasures from their native land but in those gifts God was giving a public statement of the identity of this child. The first gift, gold, was a gift suitable only for a king. In many countries one was forbidden to see the King without Gold. This young child was destined to be King of all Kings (Revelation 19:16). Earthly kings and rulers will rise and fall but only He and His reign are eternal so it only makes sense to follow Him as the ultimate King or master of your life.


Frankincense was a fragrant gum resin. The perfume was used by the priest for worship. Again, God is revealing the identity of this child. Jesus is our high priest. A priest is defined as “one authorized to perform the sacred rites of a religion especially as a mediatory agent between humans and God”. Jesus is the ultimate perfect ‘mediatory agent’ to connect us to God. All of us seek to connect with God but fall short of God’s glory and His intention for us (Romans 3:23). We are able to reach toward God and do some good but faith in Jesus is the only way of completely connecting with God and all the love, light and illumination that is God.


The third gift may seem to have been the most unusual gift for a baby yet it was most appropriate for this child. Myrrh was a sweet-smelling gum from a tree native to the land of the third Magi. Myrrh however was commonly used in preparing bodies for burial. How strange, giving a baby a gift associated with death. One does not like to think of death at anytime however it is especially not a common thought at a birth, the beginning of life. This birth was different. This cradle had the shadow of a cross (remember at this time the cross was only an instrument of execution). God used this gift to tell us this baby was destined to give His life to be a willing sacrificial gift as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). As well as we may try to 'do right and be good’;  we have no way to pay the penalty for our shortcomings. Christmas is the story of perfect God loving us, who botch things and fail at every turn, by providing the ultimate sacrifice worthy to lead us to abundant and eternal life (Romans 6:23). These three gifts declare the identity of this special child. He is the ultimate King, supreme Priest, and ultimate sacrifice to bring us into an eternal relationship with God.  Christmas truly is the gift of giving. Let us make the most of the season by receiving and giving the gift of Jesus.

Remember

Today is the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. We are in the midst of an important season of remembrance. A few months, on September 11, ago we remembered the 10th anniversary of the most deadly terrorist attack on our nation. That attack changed our nation and began what was dubbed as ‘the War on Terror’. December 7, 1941 is "a date which will live in infamy" as President Roosevelt used that phrase in the first line of his speech to the nation on the day after the Japanese attack on the naval base in Pearl Harbor. As you know that enemy attack led to our involvement in World War II. Both of these dates, 9/11 and December 7, 1941 will be remembered for the savage attack from an enemy that provoked a response that changed our world. Proper remembrance of these days is vital to move forward in appreciation for the sacrifice and response that allows us to remain free today and tomorrow.
We don’t often think of December 25 in the same manner but our reaction to that day of remembrance may be the most important response to the greatest terror attack from the greatest enemy or terrorist of all time. Satan is the enemy of all that is good and all that is of God. If he cannot win a victory over God or God’s children he will continually seek to rein terror and fear on our lives to keep us from experiencing the joy of abundant life that Jesus came to give us. Jesus makes all this clear in the familiar scripture of John 10: 10 where he tells us, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”

Christmas is a season of giving, a season of joy, a season of celebration with friends and family but let us not forget that Christmas is a season of remembrance of our only hope against the greatest enemy and terrorist of all time. Without Christmas, the Word becoming flesh as Jesus entered history, we have no hope of overcoming the fear, punishment and terror of sin. Christmas, the coming of Jesus into this world provided hope, salvation, courage and freedom from the penalty of sin as we place our faith in Him and follow Him for forgiveness, abundant and eternal life. Without Christmas we have no human model for perfect love. His coming represented perfect love from God. His coming, life and sacrificial death illustrate perfect love for us to model and follow toward God and our fellowman. Without Christmas there is no power to change lives. The coming of Jesus, whose personal resurrection from death and giving of the Holy Spirit shows us there can be power within to make transformational changes in our lives. Without Christmas we miss the whole point of life. Proper remembrance of important days and historical events is vital to move forward in appreciation for the sacrifice and response that allows us to remain free today, tomorrow and in eternity. Let us remember the “reason for the season”.

Following Jesus or Religion?

September 11 or 9/11 is a date that will remain in our memories. We remember the vicious attack on our country. Over 3000 people were killed as twisted zealots following teaching of radical Islamic fascism hijacked planes and became suicide murderers. This is not the first or will it be the last time that great harm or evil has come at the hands of religious fanatics. History’s pages are filled with warped people (and sometimes whole religious institutions or countries) committing horrible misguided actions in the name of religious fanaticism.

This is not to condemn religious zeal, often people start with good intentions. This is to say one must always be careful that passion does not overcome the ability to see truth. Jesus is the only way and the truth (John 14:6). We must be certain that we are always following Him and His teachings lest we become zealous and mistaken as others have in the past. We must be careful to keep our focus on Jesus rather than allegiance to religious activity or certain traditions and become misguided.

Former pastor and noted church consultant Kennon Callahan gave an analogy I thought helpful to keep things in perspective. He said the church should function more like a M.A.S.H. unit rather than a large institutional hospital. The Mobile Army Surgical Hospital goes where they are needed most, even when it is on the battle front, always on the edge of their resources but they give professional aid to those who may not make to the sterile hospital. Whereas, the hospital spends much time and money servicing and keeping the building so they can help those who will come to them. While hospitals are necessary, the mission of the church Jesus founded is more similar to the M.A.S.H. unit model while the hospital model could more easily lead to misguided institutionalism as serving the structure could become more important than accomplishing the true mission.

The last words our Lord gave us while he was on this planet are found in Matthew 28:18-20. He tells us to make disciples of ALL people as we go about our daily lives by teaching everything He commanded. He does not tell us to push our ideas, agenda or desires on others.

The church Jesus established in Matthew 16 professes Him as the Lord and goes wherever He is needed. It operates by faith and the Holy Spirit rather than constraints of a budget or the power of those in control of business meetings. Religious zealots say “be like us or else” (the “or else” can be harsh or it may simply mean we won’t fellowship with you.) Followers of Jesus want you to be like Jesus, but we continue to love you anyway!

Surf's Up, Enjoy the Ride!

My uncle sent me a recent picture of himself riding the waves on a surfboard. The best part of the photo comes from knowing that the surfer is retired CDR Morris C. Drees who will be 80 on his next birthday. I love to see people from my gene pool living long and well with a sense of spunk and adventure. I remember his mother (my grandmother) showing how fast she could run a stationary bike as we gathered to celebrate her 95th birthday. I preached her funeral three years later as complications from a broken hip kept her from reaching 100.

Doctors often tell us that our genes help determine much of our life. The best secret to live a long healthy life is to be born into a family with genes that will facilitate that. So I root hard for my bicycling granny as well as my surfing 79 year old uncle as I hope to continue a long, full, adventuresome and spunky life. However, as lucky as I may be to have a good heritage, which I had no part of making, I have responsibility of my own in the matter.

One cannot help the family one is born into. I was very fortunate to grow up in a family that had fun and laughter as the emphasis for the day. Some are not as fortunate. Some are born into sad families, broken homes, abusive situations that leave scars for a lifetime. We may not have had a choice in the family in which we were born and lifestyle that was taught or experienced but, we do have a choice in how it affects.us. Both my surfing uncle and his older brother, my father, grew up in a broken home that was not always remembered for fun, joy and laughter.

However, it was left to them to carve out their lives in a fashion to provide more positive opportunities or sink to self-pity and let the circumstances of life overwhelm them. My uncle made a career of the Navy. He flew planes off the USS Saratoga, traveled the world, built a family and now, as a retired Commander, enjoys riding the waves. His older brother, my dad, married a girl who added laughter and joy wherever she went and they raised a family where there was no alcohol, anger, profanity or any destructive behavior, just a focus on love, laughter and joy. That life of joy and laughter created an environment to allow me to pass this lifestyle on to the next generation, my children.

Yes, the family we are born into makes a great impact on the adults we become. We cannot control the family we are born into but we can do something about how we let it affect us. If we are given a good foundation, we can continue to build on it. We still have to do the work to become responsible, active joyous adults. There are no guarantees our life will prosper just because we were given a good start. Also, if things were/are difficult we can rise above them. Events of the past do not have to control our future. If something was done against you, forgive then forget and move on. Don’t let injustices of the past hold you back. Paul wrote in Philippians 3 that he didn’t have it all figured out yet but, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” He knew God had a plan for him to have a full life. Jesus tells us in John 10:10 that he came that we may have an “abundant life”.

If you have things in the past that hold you back, let them go. We are born into a sin-scarred world where bad things happen, even to good people. Life here is brief and you don’t make the most of each day holding bitterness, anger about things you can’t control. If something or someone was against you, forgive as quickly as possible. If you messed up, don’t let it trouble you long, ask those you offended for forgiveness and move on. Romans 8:1 tells us ‘there is now no commendation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” So, just like surfing, a new wave is always on the way. Waves can wash things away and carry us to new places. It is up to us to either let it pass and miss the chance or to jump aboard and enjoy the ride. Surf’s up!

How Great Thou Art

It was one of the most moving moments of pure worship I have ever experienced. Andre was truly caught up in the Spirit like few I have witnessed. His arms lifted in an unconscious act of adoration. He was not singing, as we were closing the worship event with the familiar hymn, ‘How Great Thou Art’. His head was back, eyes closed, arms out giving himself completely to the great God we were singing about. I was reminded of another man who described such a connection with God in 2 Corinthians 12:2 as Paul said he “was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know--God knows.” Such experiences with God are difficult to describe but when experienced one knows it as it changes one’s life.

We were not in the midst of a great cathedral, engulfed by the latest music, special effects or any other enhancement we often think is necessary to connect with God. We were in the heart of the toughest maximum security prison in the state. 98% of the 1200 inmates surrounding us were there because they had taken a life. Andre came from a tough childhood seeing his first murder at age 6. The scar on his arm was a reminder of the time his grandmother removed the bullet rather than going to the hospital and make a police report. Andre was from the inner city and grew up big, strong and tough. He became an enforcer in Chicago‘s world of organized crime and gangs. He had been transferred to prison in the south for his own safety as his previous life made it dangerous to be in a prison where he was known.

Andre had recently encountered the resurrected Christ through the prison chaplaincy and visitors coming to share the love of Christ. As a new believer he was seeking to grow in his new life of peace. After we finished ‘How Great Thou Art’ and the service was concluded I walked over and looked up in his face (when you are 5’7” you always look up to guys who are over 6’) and said, “That song took you way back to another day didn’t it?” I knew many inmates had some exposure to church as a child, when perhaps a loving grandmother or relative cared for them. I saw his worship experience and thought he was remembering some pleasant memory from a past long gone. I was wrong in this case.

Andre looked down at me with those piercing eyes that had often brought fear into victims of his previous days. This was a different seriousness, no longer scary but a seriousness that comes from knowing and experiencing the lifechanging Christ. He said, “I never went to church. I have never heard that song before. Could you get me the words?” I told him I would and realized the depth of his true worshipexperience. I poked my finger in his massive chest and told him. “You have always been a strong man who had an impact on others, not always for good. God is now going to use you as a strong man who will have an impact on others good as they see Christ in you as your strength.”

I sent him the words to the hymn and on my next visit I saw a face that lit up the room with a smile reflecting the Jesus who had changed his life. Jesus tells us in Matthew 25:36, “I was in prison and you came to visit me.” I visited prison and saw Jesus…through the changed life in Andre. It doesn’t matter where we are or what we have done, true transformationand worship comes when we turn our eyes and give our lives completely to God.

“O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder consider all the works Thy Hand hath made, I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder, thy pow'r throughout the universe displayed; When through the woods and forest glades I wander I hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees; When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur and hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze; Then sings my soul, Mmy Saviour God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art! When Christ shall come, with shouts of acclamation, and take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration and there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"

A Fitting Memorial

A year ago I was making funeral arrangements for my father. Next month marks the 14th year since I did the same for my mother. They loved, sacrificed and provided examples giving me the strong positive foundation that helped my life become what it is today. As a fitting memorial I try to live each day in a fashion that would honor their name and make them proud. In a few weeks we, acknowledge, with Memorial Day, the ultimate sacrifice of those who allow us the lives we enjoy today. People have different ways to celebrate Memorial Day. As a fitting memorial to the sacrifice made for us, we should strive to be the best citizens protecting and keeping the freedom and rights that are the foundation of our country. It is always important to remember and memorialize those who paved the way, provided examples and made sacrifices that allow us the opportunities and lives we enjoy today.

2000 years ago God gave His only son as an example of the way to live a life of love. Jesus would later willingly give His life as a sacrifice to pay the penalty for our shortcomings. As a fitting memorial to His sacrificial gift we can follow Ephesians 4 and “live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” If you will permit me to share the WHD translation of the latter portion of that chapter (Hmm, aren’t those my initials?) I think we can learn the best way to live a life that is a proper memorial and will do Him proud and serve us all well.

We are all different and have different Spiritual abilities that are intended to work in concert with one another. We can use our Spiritual gifts to build up His church so it will grow in maturity and love, “as each part does its work.” As we work together and live honest lives, not putting on pretense, we are helped to remember we are part of the same essence. When we get upset or angry we don’t need to let that anger cause us to fail or do wrong giving evil a chance to grow or flourish. We should be honest and work hard, so we will have something to give to people in need. Our language should be pure as we try to say the right thing at the right time and help others with what we say. We should strive to live in such a way that we do not depress the Spirit of God. It is that same Spirit, if allowed to grow in us, that makes sure we will someday be free from all wrongdoing and misbehavior. It doesn’t help to be bitter and angry and mad at others. We need to refrain from yelling at one another, cursing each other or ever being rude. Instead, we are to be kind and merciful, forgiving others, just as God forgave us because of Christ. This is a fitting memorial and way to live.

Doing All You Can For Now

Those who work to help people often have times when we wonder if we are really making a difference. It is often difficult to see how the time, energy and resources we spend seeking to improve the lives of others. It can be like a worker in a cramped corner of a factory putting a part on a ship and never seeing it sail. In his heart the worker knows the importance of the part he contributes to the ship but there are times he would like to see the ocean, feel the wind and know he had a hand in making the vessel seaworthy. Discouragement can come more easily as we wonder if what we do makes a difference or matters.

I find stories like that of Bohn Fawkes to be helpful. Lt. Col. Bohn E. Fawkes was an American hero. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota and attended West High School and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Chemical Engineering and a Masters in Business Administration. At the University, he was a member of the ROTC and joined the Army Air Corps in 1942. Fawkes flew 25 bombing missions as B-17 co-pilot and pilot in the 379th Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force.
His missions included two of the famous raids over Schweinfurt, Germany and a ditching in the English Channel from which his entire crew survived. After the war, Fawkes served as a B-29 instructor in the Pacific. His career was spotlighted in the book “Fall of Fortresses”. Fawkes retired from military service in 1962 and returned to civilian life to carve a career as a stock broker and became involved in his community, serving with his children's school PTA, working with his church, and the Boy Scouts of America. His was the life of humble service that makes for great movies as the quiet hero whose flights helped win the world changing victory over Nazi Germany.

One of his most memorable flights may have been a mission where he flew over Kassel, Germany they were under heavy fire from Nazi anti-aircraft guns. The B-17's gas tanks were hit but yet Bohn and his crew were still able to land safely. The following morning, Bohn asked for a German shell from his gas tank to keep as a souvenir to show everyone his good luck. He was told that not just one shell had been found in the gas tank but eleven shells had been removed and yet his gas tank never exploded.

Confused technicians opened the shells to find all but one empty of any explosive charge. The one that wasn't empty contained a rolled piece of paper. A message had been written in Czech language and this message read "This is all we can do for you now". It seems that an assembly line worker in occupied Czechoslovakia took it upon himself to do what he could to oppose Nazism by secretly disarming bombs he was forced to make. The unknown worker was not able to win the war on his own. He never knew the results of his efforts. However he did what he could where he was and made a huge difference, ‘doing what he could for now’.

As you serve your fellowman be aware of the task. One may never be at a place where they think they can make a big difference. The task ahead may seem overwhelming. One may never know the results of one’s effort and effect on the lives of those one serves. However, if ‘you do all you can for now’ and trust God for the results, you can be at peace with your efforts as you press on.

Guidance

I am often asked to give advice or guidance in life. I have learned over the years that many do not really seek advice or guidance as much as they want someone to validate what they wish to do or are already doing. Too often we seek guidance after we have lost our way due to poor judgment, bad habits, pursuit of selfish desires or seeking to follow and satisfy our own ego. By the way I found a great way to define ego. It means we Edge God Out. Following and satisfying ego leads to pushing God’s direction, agenda and guidance aside as self is placed first.

When one meditates on the word guidance, one can see ‘dance’ at the end of the word. I once read that doing God’s will is a lot like dancing. When we follow His lead and flow with the Holy Spirit life becomes more like a flowing dance with rhythm and meaning. As we see on the popular TV show, ‘Dancing With the Stars’, following the complete direction and lead of a professional dancer can make almost anyone look better on the dance floor. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn’t flow with the music and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person relaxes and lets the other lead, both parties begin to flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly on one direction or another. It’s as if the two become one body, moving beautifully with rhythm and grace. The well performed dance takes surrender, willingness and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other. Look back at the word guidance. When one sees a big ‘G’ as the beginning it is easy to think of God, followed by ‘u’ and ‘i’. Forming a short sentence with this observation results in the following; God, u & I dance. God, you and I dance. This short sentence summarizes what real guidance in life can mean.

Jesus tells us in Luke 9:23 “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” The Message translates this statement from Jesus as follows; “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat—I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how.”

So as we seek to meander through this adventure of life let us learn to let the expert lead. God created all things, including you. He has a master plan and design for all things, including you. He has a harmonious rhythm for life when we follow Him. Hence, let us lower our head, place our hand in His and let Him lead as we enjoy the dance.

In Everything Give Thanks

I have often heard; ‘Never pray for patience or God will give you plenty of opportunities to practice it.’ Life has its ways of teaching us…if we will pay attention and learn. Just yesterday I posted a blog sharing a personal testimony that is important to me. It was the story of how divine intervention in the form of a kidney stone helped doctors find three aneurysms that were about to shorten my life ten years ago.

Today I got up ready to head to the office for just another day However, if we will keep our spiritual eyes open no day is just another day. God is always showing us something, often in ways we don’t expect. My wife woke up feeling bad due to fluctuating blood pressure problems. So the first plan was for her to go to school for necessary preparation to leave class early and go to the doctor as soon as they could see her. I would check in from my office later. The plan changed as soon as she saw her car with a flat tire. Now I would also be leaving my office early to take her to the doctor and then fix a flat tire.

Feeling tired and frustrated after the events of the day, my plans, were interrupted; I was finally headed to the tire dealer with a flat tire in the bed of my truck. It was then that God reminded me of a verse I memorized years ago. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Did God just forget my circumstances? All my plans for the day were shot due to the circumstances. Why is it His will for me to give thanks?
He knows that giving thanks unlocks spiritual eyesight to see and enjoy His grace. OK! Let me start giving thanks in my circumstances. First, I am thankful that the flat tire occurred in my garage rather than out on the road perhaps leaving my wife stranded. Second, I am thankful that I know how to change a tire and have the physical ability to do so. There are lasting benefits that come from owning my first car, as a teenager, that cost only $50 and five used tires for $4 (not each but $4 for all five used tires). In those days changing tires was almost a normal part of starting the car for a drive. I used to change tires so often I could have worked in a NASCAR pit crew.

I continued to give thanks in my circumstance. I took my tire to our tire dealer, who is a good friend, and talked to his wife who is running a 10 K soon. She beat cancer and became a runner. She smiled reminding me that this circumstance was not a big problem, it could have been worse. It is hard to think about ‘difficult circumstances’ when you are talking to a cancer survivor who has a bright smile. I am thankful that Cathy’s health situation is something that only required a change in medication. I am thankful for our health. As we talked about life circumstances, I smiled and said “Hey, we could be living in Libya!” It was my way of reminding me that we are blessed with all our freedoms and also a reminder to pray for those who are oppressed. I began to realize how blessed we are in so many ways.

I drove home with a repaired tire in the back of my truck and continued to count all the circumstances in my life for which I can be thankful. God’s will for my life is to continue to give thanks in all circumstances. As I continue to do so I see His hand in so many things that are beyond my patience and understanding. When we begin looking we can find there is truly something in which we can give thanks in ALL circumstances. There is an old church hymn that reminds us to count our blessings “when you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.” There is no better way to transform the day than giving thanks in all circumstances and counting blessings.

Ten Years Later

I am taking the day off to play golf with some friends. Ten years ago I was planning the same but I had a life changing or should I say lifesaving experience. For the past ten years I have celebrated an anniversary on February 26. I celebrate my one and only kidney stone. On February 26, 2001 I woke at 2 AM and began a journey that saved my life. My ‘alarm clock’ that morning was a mild and unusual kidney stone. I never had a kidney stone before or since. The doctors told me that men rarely have their 1st kidney stone at ‘my age’. I hate it when that phrase becomes part of the dialogue! The scan showed a calcium deposit that led to another doctor (remember this pattern). There was an aneurysm on my renal artery. Other doctors and scans later revealed other aneurysms outside both kidneys and a very rare renal artery disease called Fibro Muscular Dysplasia. This is not the way one wants to learn new vocabulary words. One also does not like to hear doctors say, “This is now more complicated than my area of expertise.”

Now we move to see special doctors in other states. Nothing gets your attention like a talk with the most prominent specialist in the field in the nation and hearing, “I don’t like the looks of this.” I will spare you details but there is not much that can top lying in a hospital room after having prayed with your family and seeing them walk out the door and then knowing you will have lengthy and dangerous surgery from where you will wake up either in the recovery room or Heaven. There is a reality check!

I wound up with two life saving surgeries. The first was in June. I could not have the second until I recovered enough strength for the following surgery in November. Major artery reconstruction was preformed and three aneurysms were removed. I was told how serious the condition was with both surgeries but that truth really set in after my 2nd surgery in November. The patient who followed me with the next surgery that day with the same condition and the same surgeon, died in the bed next to me in ICU. My doctor told us that in most situations such as this they do not find the aneurysm(s) until the autopsy, after it ruptures causing death with no warning or symptoms. He said, “Obviously, God still has some work for you to do here!"

So, ten years later, I begin each day ‘admiring’ the 25 inch scar around my 33 inch midsection and go through the day with no feeling in that area of my abdomen. It is my reminder to that I should have died ten years ago. I now seek to make the most of each moment that I have the gift of life. I do admit times of frustration I when I see people throwing away the precious fragile gift of life wasting time, fussing, fighting and arguing over petty matters. I am amazed at the ways we find to become angry and unhappy when we live in such a blessed country and are so blessed by God.
Do you know that your garbage disposal ‘eats’ better than much of the rest of the world? People in many countries who are caught worshipping Jesus are beaten or killed. We have total freedom to assemble and worship the risen Christ and a spring shower is enough to keep many away from church. Others go to church and fuss about anything and everything that displeases them rather than finding the unity in Christ that He prayed for just before going to the Cross (read John 17:20-26).

I am reminded of a slogan from of an old TV commercial for cell phones. They end the commercial saying, “We’re part of the AT&T wireless network…and we get it!” I often think we could do a similar commercial but we would have to change the words and say, “We are Christians living in America, saved by the abundant grace of Christ, living in a free nation to enjoy life at the fullest…but we don’t get it!” I Thessalonians 5:16 commands us to “Rejoice always” yet we often sit in the middle of God’s blessings and frown.

The next time you think you are having a bad time, remember the blessings you have here in America, read I Thessalonians. 5:18 and move on. You could have been born in India as an ‘untouchable’ (how would you like a life of cleaning out sewers with no hope of bettering your status in life?) or in you could have been born in Pakistan or Cambodia and not had the freedom or blessings that you have. John 10:10 says Jesus came to give abundant life. Let other stuff go and live! If I can rejoice over a 25-inch scar and celebrate the 10th anniversary of a kidney stone, you ought not to look too far to find your own reason to rejoice and make the most of each day!

Significance

The excitement is building. In a few days the Super Bowl will be played to determine the champion football team in the NFL. There has been and will be massive promotion, marketing and business opportunities as people try to exploit this special time. Many have been planning well in advance to be ready for this unique opportunity. News agencies reported a fear that there could be a shortage of ‘exotic dancers’ for those who will be looking for a certain avenue of celebration. It is sad to think of some patrons having to settle for dancers of a less but all that is another subject for another day.

The previous example is simply to show that many of life’s events have different meaning for different people. The Super Bowl is an event that has long been promoted and hyped beyond exaggeration. Years ago I thought the simple comment one person put it all in proper perspective. In 1978 the Super Bowl was played in the Louisiana Superdome for the first time. At that time this new structure was the largest indoor stadium. Here was the ‘Super’ game played in a ‘Superdome’! It could not get much better. It was also still a time when Walter Cronkite was the most respected and trusted voice in the nation as the original ‘Anchorman of the Nation’. An excited reporter had the opportunity for the ultimate commentary as he asked the respected man for his thoughts on such a spectacular event. Walter Cronkite had cut his teeth reporting during battles in World War II, he had been the calming voice for a country when a president was assassinated, as well as other historical events. We had become accustomed for Mr. Cronkite to look into the camera and put everything in proper perspective. He smiled and said it was interesting to see such excitement over something that has “no historical significance whatsoever!” The reporter, who had also fallen for all the hype of false importance, did not know what to say! I have always been a sports fan but this has to be one of my favorite moments. Putting things in proper perspective is extremely important in the more important game of life.

We are often guilty of giving too much attention to the wrong things or people. I find it interesting when we see who and what has been given historical significance. People like Jessie James, Jack the Ripper and Lee Oswalt are easily remembered while the majority of hardworking people in their day, who did their job with integrity, raised moral children and remained faithful to their spouse as they quietly went about being good citizens, remain obscure as others are celebrated or noted in history. One can easily grab a headline today by bad or outrageous behavior, some of which may have ‘no historical significance whatsoever’.

The real matter in life is significance or meaning rather than notoriety. My father & mother never were not famous but the way they lived and taught me to live still have historical significance for me. They showed me what it meant to be loved, how to love others and how to behave in a responsible manner. That may not cause them or me to go down in history but that IS significant. My heavenly Father verifies this through His son as Jesus summed all proper and significant behavior in Matthew 22:37-40. The more people who love and live responsibility as they love God and their fellowman, the more this may impact the world and have historical significance. In today’s mixed up world superficial events, like football games, and irresponsible behavior may gain headlines and even be recorded in history and considered important by many. However, when we follow the words and teachings of Jesus we will gain significance that is eternal. Now, THAT is significant!

Through The Gospels in a Month

Tomorrow begins a new month. In His last words on earth, Jesus told us to teach everyone to obey all He commanded. Too often ‘religion’ gets in the way of following His teaching as people tend to push or become rigid with their particular church agenda, religious tradition or religious ideas. All of His teaching He wished to pass on to us in His words is recorded in 4 books. One can read three short chapters a day and discover all His teaching through His words and deeds as recorded in these four books in a month. Give it a try and see how it makes a difference in your life.

Through The Gospels in a Month
Jesus told us to teach everyone everything He commanded us. To know what he commanded, we must become familiar with his teachings and life. The following is a plan to read the Gospels in a month. There are 89 chapters in the four Gospels. Each day one should read three chapters on the corresponding day to complete the reading each month.

Day Chapters
1. 1-3 (Matthew)
2. 4-6
3. 7-9
4. 10-12
5. 13-15
6. 16-18
7. 19-21
8. 22-24
9. 25-27
10. 28- Mark 2
11. 3-5
12. 6-8
13. 9-11
14. 12-14
15. 15- Luke 1
16. 2-4
17. 5-7
18. 8-10
19. 11-13
20. 14-16
21. 17-19
22. 20-22
23. 23-John 1
24. 2-4
25. 5-7
26. 8-10
27. 11-13
28. 14-16
29. 17-19
30. 20-21

True Grit

A popular movie, True Grit, follows more faithfully to the Charles Protis’ novel than the older movie starring John Wayne. Young Mattie Ross shows courage, spunk and knowledge beyond her 14 years of life as she seeks to find Tom Chaney to avenge his cold-blooded murder of her father. She seeks a lawman who has grit to do the job. She is led to Marshall Rooster Cogburn who has several failings but she decides he has the ‘True Grit’ needed for this task.

As the viewer watches the adventure unfold one cannot help but notice familiar themes in the background music. The score contains and cleverly weaves excerpts of ‘Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand’, ‘What a Friend We have in Jesus’ and ‘Leaning on the Everlasting Arms’. Carter Burwell, upon composing appropriate music wondered about Mattie Ross who had unquestioning determination to go to the wild country in pursuit of her father’s killer. “Where would a 14 year old girl come by the audacity to browbeat outlaws and lawmen, follow them into the wilderness and even correct their spelling? Church of course!”

It was a hard time but folks in that day found strength to sustain any hardship through their faith. The strength of young Mattie’s faith shows her to be the one with True Grit that never wavered and lasted until the end. Today times have changed in may fashions however there are these constants that still exist. There are always situations in life that are difficult and often potentially devastating, such as 14 year old Mattie experienced with the murder of her beloved father. There are always unreliable, unfaithful and even evil people that will disappoint discourage and deceive. However, there are always those who remain faithful and unshaken to righteousness and justice no matter the circumstances. Even though they may seem few their faithfulness gives them True Grit. They are the ones who make a difference for good. They are the ones who go to work everyday, make their marriage work, teach children to behave and hold the moral fiber of society together. They may not be glamorous, famous or wealthy. In fact they usually are not. However, there has always been, will always be, as is necessary the minority who have True Grit required to maintain morality and civility in society.

There is a Biblical teaching called the Doctrine of the Remnant referring to God’s faithful who are always there even when the majority seems to be moving in an evil destructive path. My hat is always off to those who have the True Grit to stand faithful no matter the odds.

Elisha the prophet give a great example as the king of Aram was frustrated with Elisha’s prophecies that worked against his agenda to the point that he sent his army against this single prophet. Elisha was traveling only with his servant. One morning the servant woke to find outside was the powerful army of Aram surrounding the city. They had come for Elisha. He was scared to death as they were greatly outnumbered and outgunned by the powerful army. He asked what they would do. Elisha had the True Grit to trust God. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." God’s angels of protection were not visible to the one who had fear. However the prophet had faith, vision and 'Grit' to hang in there with God was able to see God’s hand that would always be present for his faithful.

Fear not, remember those who are with us are more than those who are with them. True Grit is shown in always following, trusting and being redeemed by ‘God’s Unchanging Hand’. Press On!

Making the Most of Time

As I reflect on the passing of another year and look forward to the year ahead, I become more conscious of the passage of time. In our youth we often think we are indestructible and will always have all the time we need. As we age we seem to focus more on how quickly time zooms along. I once had a deacon tell me he seemed to have a birthday each week after turning 65. While I have yet to hit that number I must admit that the calendar does seem to be increasing in speed.

Bank accounts and society structures measure us at different levels but there is one measure that places us all on equal ground, levels the scale for everyone and gives us all equal opportunity. That equalizing measure is time. It does not matter how wealthy, strong, intelligent or powerful one may be we all have the same amount of time. Neither Bill Gates nor Oprah has any more minutes in their hour than you or me. However, the difference often lies in what someone does with this equal resource. Some make the most of each moment while others waste precious time with bad habits, poor decisions, and poor time management. I have a poster of an African proverb in my office that reminds me to make the most of each moment entitled ‘Every Morning in Africa’. It says; “Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It does not matter if you are a lion or a gazelle. When the sun comes up, you better be running.”

This is one of my reminders that each day I wake with life I must set myself with purpose to make the most of each moment. There is not a moment to waste being lazy, angry, selfish, upset, or simply wasting time due to poor time management or repeating bad decisions. Each moment is not to be taken for granted. The next moment or breath is never promised. One does not know how long one has to live. So we are left with an interesting situation. While we do not know how much time we will have in our life span, we all have the same amount of time that is given in equal measure each day. Time is equal for everyone in that sense and it is a resource that is not retrievable once spent. It can only be wasted or used wisely. Therefore, since I (and you) have just as much of this precious resource as the most powerful and wealthy person on the planet each day we are alive and since it is not something we can store or retrieve once it is spent it just makes sense to spend or invest it wisely.

That is why God tells us to do that very thing. Ephesians 5:15-16 says “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Paul, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit could have used either of two common Greek words for time: chronos or kairos. Chronos refers to time in general or clock time. It is the root word for chronological. Kairos refers to a predetermined, specific amount of time. It is measured, allocated and fixed. The Holy Spirit led Paul to use kairos.

That intentional word choice by God is huge. It reminds us that we have a specific amount of time given by God on earth. While He knows the measure of our days we do not. We need to make the most of each moment. I have been with people in their last moments on earth. No one has said, “I wish I had more time for my job or hobby”. Rather, people are comforted in their last moments when they have love with their family, friends and God. So, it makes sense to use every moment to love God and others as much as possible. My dad had a plaque on his desk that read, “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.” It was a reminder to get over things and make the most of each moment in a positive joyful manner. The clock is ticking even now. How are you spending your seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, years or life? What are you doing with your time?