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Inner SpaceThe Heart and Mind - Where Life Is Won or Lost Uganda Mission Trip Report - Final
October 16, 2009
Dear Prayer Partners –
I’ve been blessed in so many ways during the three weeks I
Week 1 – My friend, Pastor Gil Harder and I landed in Entebbe very late – spent the first night in Kampala and then purchased Bibles in the Lango and Acholi tribal languages for our next two weeks of ministry up North in Lira and Gulu. After a 7 hour trip with our friend Pastor James Okori – we made it to Lira where we were the guests of Bishop Tom Okello at All Nations Christian Care. Bishop Tom is well respected and former overseer of 912 churches.
Intercessors Conference – Gil and I both had the opportunity to speak to the large group of Intercessors who had come from throughout Uganda, Congo, Kenya and Sudan to pray. They happened to be meeting that week at All Nations and we were asked to bring a word of encouragement.
Gulu – drove up North and on the way stopped for Mango’s. A crowd gathered hoping to sell us water or fruit and we gave them the Gospel message. A young man named Daniel prayed with me to receive Christ right there on the side of the road with many others listening intently. We continued the two hour drive to meet with the Gulu Elders Fellowship – a group of about 20 Pastors and Church Leaders from this village that has been hit hard over a 20 year period because of the activities of the LRA (Joseph Kony’s Lord’s Resistance Army). After a time of mutual encouragement and worship – we distributed Bibles and children’s ministry materials in their language. They were received with much thanksgiving.
After departing we visited one of the nearby IDP camps (Internally Displaced Peoples) and shared the Gospel with several. The head of one family – Justin – received the Lord that day and led all of his children in a prayer of commitment to the Lord. Pray for Justin and his wife, who is still considering Jesus.
Christian Holtz, an associate evangelist with Luis Palau – was holding a festival in a nearby field and we were able to briefly join the event in progress, before heading back to Lira.
Barlonyo - (see Facebook video) one of the highlights of the mission was visiting the village of Barlonyo which was about 15km outside of Lira. This village was the site of a massacre in 2004 where over 300 people where slaughtered by the LRA. A memorial and mass grave are stark reminders of the evil that took place. We met with the church of about 90 people who had waited for hours to meet with us under the shade tree by the memorial. Both Gil and I shared words of encouragement from the Lord, worshipped with them – African style – and distributed Bibles. We were addressed by Chief Patrick Odango and reminded of their past suffering and his earlier request for Bibles, since that was the only thing that would bring true healing and hope to his people. We were given a list of 125 names of Christians that they hoped would receive Bibles but we only had 30 to give. That’s all that were available to purchase in their language. We did give them a check however – a gift from Grace Community Church and our friend Pastor Randy Brannon – who had visited a few months earlier and committed funds to help.
I was shown two large mounds of bricks waiting to be ‘fired’ and was told that the women of the church had dug these with there own hands from the ground nearby. The bricks will be used for the walls of the new Barlonyo Memorial Bible Church building which they hope to construct soon, by the grace of God.
Leaving the Church – with much thanksgiving and anticipation for what the Lord would do in the months ahead, we headed back toward Lira. On the dirt road we saw a number of children with water jugs and a hut with a naked boy with a distended belly – the telltale sign of malnutrition. We stopped and found out that the woman who lives there – was named Grace – she is a believer who had recently lost her father, husband and oldest son. She was going blind herself and was having difficulty caring for her many remaining young children. We were able to introduce her to the Pastor of the church who assured us that the church would assist this dear woman. After praying and giving gifts, we left giving thanks that the Lord led us to her hut that day. Please pray for Grace and her children. (I have pictures of her children on this website / Facebook.)
Sunday – I was honored to preach 2 times at All Nations Christian Care – the first time to a packed audience in English. The second service was smaller and was translated into Acholi. I shared my testimony and brought a message from 1 Peter 1. We saw a number of people receive Christ in each of the services. One interesting cultural item – during the offering, some people bring agricultural items instead of cash and so they take the item immediately and auction it off to get money for the church. An example would be someone bringing a large bag of dried corn as an offering to the Lord and then someone else purchasing it during the service. All items went quickly and Bishop Tom said many are purchased by people just wanting to help the ministry – not necessarily because they want the item themselves.
Week 2 Africa Hope Bible Institute - All week we had been working toward the planned launch of the new school, with much work printing course material, arranging advertising, preparing the new facility, meeting with the Board members, etc. The plan was to launch the school on Monday with dignitaries invited for this special event. That’s when the attacks came – 6 of the 10 board members where missing in action. We found out that one was jailed on false charges, one was violently ill and had to be hospitalized, one was called out of town on an emergency, etc. Our vehicle also had the battery stolen while sitting in front of Pastor Okori’s home. This was our only mode of transportation and getting a replacement was not easy. These obvious attacks were meant to thwart the work of faith that was underway but it would not happen. Although we did call the dignitaries and postponed the ‘event’ – we did launch the school with 12 initial students hungry to learn the word of God and to be used by Him to reach the lost.
Gil and I spent the week teaching Bible Interpretation, Church History, Theology, Old Testament and New Testament Survey – plus worshipping, praying and encouraging the students in the Lord. We are excited to hear reports of their continued eagerness to learn under the permanent teachers that took over since our departure. Pray for the teachers and the students (18 registered and an additional 6 being considered)
Murchison National Park – Day Off Gil had graciously planned one day off for Pastor James Okori (our driver and co-laborer) and me to join him on a trip up the Nile River. We left at 4am and drove 4 ½ hours to the park so we could get on a 9am boat up the river. What an adventure! Wild bull elephants, hippos, water buffalo, galloping giraffe, crocodiles, baboons and more. We took some great photos, video (see facebook/website) including a mad elephant who wanted us to know that he owned the road! It was a wonderful experience for all of us. We arrived back in Lira at about midnight with the most severe thunderstorm I have been in. Flash floods made it interesting trying to get out of the car and make it to our room!
Sunday # 2 – I was invited to preach at a small church in Lira which met under a semi-thatched roof area that had tried to hold back a major rain storm during the night. The small group worshipped the Lord with joy, in spite of the thick mud. After the service, I was invited by the youth Pastor for a meal, and then rode on his motorcycle with him to visit his wife in the hospital with their 2 month old daughter who was suffering from malaria. His 2 year old son at home was also very sick with some ailment not yet diagnosed. I laid hands on him and prayed for the Lord’s healing. Pray for Patrick and his young family – health and ministry in Lira. (Pictures on Face book/website)
Week 3
Time to say goodbye to our dear friends in Lira and drive back to Kampala to meet up with the team of 21+ from Solid Rock Fellowship / Jose Zayas Evangelism International. Gil and I became part of the group and during the next week we:
Ministered in 14 schools – sometimes sharing the Gospel to a large assembly, sometimes classroom to classroom. Ages ranged from primary to university. In every case, we saw multitudes respond to the Good News of Jesus. We typically left each school with supplies for the students and a couple of soccer balls for the school to use. These were a big hit! They love their ‘football’! Gil even had the opportunity to share Christ in a Muslim school and half of the 500 students came to Christ!
Ministered in the Butabika Hospital – We visited patients in 9 wards of this mental hospital and presented the Gospel to the hospital staff. Our drama team performed “Everything’ – a powerful presentation without words that moved the listeners to ‘tears’ and ‘cheers’ as it portrays the love of Jesus – the pulling away by temptation and sin – and the love of Christ that never gives up – ready to rescue the one who calls on His name. Powerful!
I had the privilege of sharing the Gospel to the gathered patients in 4 wards. In the last ward, I shared the Gospel 1:1 with a Muslim woman who had come to pickup her son. She was fasting that week because it was Ramadan – but when she heard about the gift of God, she wanted to receive Christ as her Savior and Lord. Pray for Isha – she will face many challenges going back to a Muslim home and testifying for Jesus. The team also prayed individually for the patients’ healing and the restoration of their lives in Jesus.
God is Able Ministry – Homeless Ministry in slum - another highlight was a visit by the team to a slum area where Pastor George and his wife started a ministry to young men who are homeless and have no where to turn for help. The team shared Christ with these men and seven came to know Jesus that day. Many others were prayed for individually.
Gil and I also went door to door inviting slum residents to the Festival to enjoy the music and hear more about Jesus.
Marketplace – going from business to business in the marketplace was also very rewarding with many coming to the Lord. We went to invite people to the Festival but also used the Evangecube to draw a crowd and to share the Good News with many. The combination of seeing a Muzungu (white person) and seeing this visualization of the Gospel was always a draw. Many of the people we spoke with were Muslims, but most were open to discuss Jesus. One of the churches we worked with was planted right in the middle of a slum marketplace previously full of drug use, prostitution, etc. but has already made a big impact on the area.
Luzira Festival - four nights of entertainment, testimony and a message by Jose Zayas – International Evangelist Local musicians, dancers, our drama team, Jose’s Gospel messages – all combined for a wonderful 4 night festival. Worship was lively, people responded to Christ and hundreds were prayed for each evening. One night we laid hands on individuals and prayed for relief from HIV, Typhoid, Malaria, school fees, wisdom to know God’s will, and much more. Needy people seeking help from the One who has the power to help. Andrew Palau – son of Luis Palau – stopped by one evening and shared his testimony prior to Jose’s message. I was able to present my testimony the following evening. Our drama team – once again – hit a home run with their rendition of ‘Everything’ (see links and videos on Face book/website)
Church – I was able to preach the final Sunday at Gospel Mission Church in Luzira. Pastor Ramathan Mukisa was a former Muslim, prison inmate, drug user, gang leader – bad dude, who came to Christ when near death in prison. He is now a Pastor, song writer/singer, and husband/father. It was a pleasure getting to know him and his family. At the end of my message - -3 adults responded to the invitation to receive Christ as their Savior. Praise God!
Heading home – Because of the situation at home with the death of my mother in-law – I decided to come home one week earlier than originally planned and headed back with Gil on Sept. 22nd. The rest of the Solid Rock team spent one more week in Soroti, with very fruitful ministry.
Overall – Jose’s conservative count for the two weeks of the team’s ministry was over 27,000 heard the Gospel and over 4,300 responded to the Gospel – receiving Jesus as their Savior! While Gil and I did not keep track of numbers during the first two weeks, we saw many come to Christ and were able to have fruitful ministry in the launch of Africa Hope Bible Institute and ministering to the Elder’s Fellowship and Barlonyo Church.
Thank you again for your partnership on this mission! I’m praying about next steps regarding Uganda and other mission opportunities. Gil is headed back, Lord willing, to Uganda and Kenya in December. Jose is prayerfully considering at least two trips back to Uganda in 2010. Please pray that we can continue reaping the harvest while the Lord has the door open for us.
In His Name – and for His Glory –
Randy Howarth 1 Corinthians 15:58
************************************************************************ Lots of pictures available on website at: www.innerspace7.spaces.live.com
Pictures and several videos available on facebook at: www.facebook.com/randy.howarth
More professionally done videos at: http://josezayas.org/
************************************************************************ PS:----
Trials – Some of you have heard about the many trials we experienced during this mission, so – I thought I would give a short recap of my personal testing. The trials had intensified in the weeks prior to the Uganda trip, but they exploded beginning the day before --- all to no avail – the Lord was the victor, as always!
Eph 6:10-12
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Uganda UpdateUpdate from Uganda - very little time for internet access but here's a brief summary -
Yesterday was very fruitful day - spoke at Intercessors conference with Gil Harder - leaders from churches across Uganda, Congo, Sudan. Delivered 24 Acholi bibles - people are so hungry for God's word and don't have Bibles -- even Pastors sometimes share theirs'. Went to Gulu and met with Gulu Elders Fellowship for prayer, planning and encouragement - discussed possible Bible Institute in future. Went to Internally Displaced Peoples camp and prayed with Justin who lives there with wife and ~8 kids in very deep poverty. Justin prayed to receive Christ with his family. Daniel - young man met at market along the way - also received Christ. Visited crusade going on near IDP camp and it was led by a Luis Palau associate - Christian Holtz. Going to another village today to meet with Chief Patrick and the pastors from the area. Tomorrow preaching twice and preparing for a week of teaching at the Africa Hope Bible Institute -- which is launching Monday with dignitaries from the area. Much more happening but will have to wait. Please pray for my preparations - sermons, lessons and for health but most of all - that we can continue to add to God's family daily and provide comfort/encouragement to those in need . Blessings Uganda in One Week!It is less than one week until I step my feet on to Ugandan soil and bring the Gospel of Grace to many of those who have yet to hear the Good News. My dear friend, Pastor Gil Harder and I have been busy preparing ourselves, our messages, and working with key Ugandan Pastors and leaders to make the most of our September mission.
We will be launching Africa Hope Bible Institute in less than 2 weeks in the town of Lira. It is exciting to hear about the vision local Pastors and Evangelists have to equip and send workers into the Harvest fields -- not only in Uganda - but also into Sudan, Congo, Kenya, Rwanda and more. These men understand the heart of God is to 'seek and to save' the lost -- wherever they are -- even to the uttermost parts of the earth. One of the requests from the team is for a laptop to help with the record keeping and communications at Africa Hope Bible Institute. Would you like to meet that need?
We have been praying for a great harvest of souls during this mission and a great work of equipping and encouraging those eager to be poured out for the sake of the Gospel.
There is much to be done and more resources are needed to purchase Bibles that are translated into the local tribal languages, small gifts such as 'Beanie Babies' for children who may have never had a toy of their own before, farm kits - with good seed and tools; bicycles for Pastors who sometimes walk all day to preach to remote churches, etc. Perhaps the Lord will lay it on your heart to purchase the laptop or provide funds for these other needs-- or even to fund a clean water well where none is currently available (2 for $10k)
There is a serious drought in the Northern part of the country again and food shortages/malnutrition is a real problem again. Right now - 40% of the children near Lira are out of school because of a malaria outbreak which kills thousands each year.
The Lord is pleased with the sacrifices made by us who have so much in order to help those who have so little -- in terms of earthly, material possessions. Please pray and if you can give --- give joyfully, knowing that even a small gift goes a long way to help those in Uganda and 100% of any funds will go directly to buy the items for them.
To date - I have covered ~$3500 of the mission expenses from my own funds; have received ~$900 from friends and family. I still have at least $300 to raise for supplies by September 1st, but would like to see us be ambassadors of Grace and bring much, much more to help.
Pray -- and if the Lord directs you to give, above your normal giving the your local Church --- let me know asap and we can coordinate getting the money properly allocated in time. You can also send a check directly to JZEI at PO Box 1; Portland, OR 97207. Just be sure to mark 'Howarth-Uganda Mission' on the memo line of your check. Jose Zayas' org is not charging any administrative fee so all goes to the mission items . Thank you to those who have already become partners with me on this mission of hope.
I will publish the itinerary for the trip soon, as a tool for those of you who are on the 'prayer team'. Pray for safety, health, Power of the Holy Spirit for teaching, preaching and witnessing for the entire month of September. Please pray for Pastor Gil and my family as we both have experienced many attacks as we have been preparing to assault the kingdom of darkness with the marvelous news of God's Grace through Jesus Christ. In addition, please pray for Jose Zayas and the team from Solid Rock Fellowship and Journey Church which will join us in Uganda September 13th. Together we will spread the Gospel in Luzira and Soroti over a two week period and are praying for thousands to hear and many to come to know the Lord.
Last of all - I want to include an email from one of the Ugandan Pastors who will be joining Gil and I on our journey in Lira and Gulu----
In His Never Failing Grace ---
Randy
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Aug 24, 2009 1:03 AM
Precious greetings Pastor Gil,
Greetings also from my family and Hosanna Worship Center congregation and are praying looking foward to receive you and Randy in Lira. Greetings also from the Africa Hope Bible Institute (AHBI) committee and Elders Fellowship leaders.
Thank you for the $400 you sent. I have received it this morning. I delayed to check the mail throughout the weekend. However Lira is ready to receive you and Pastor Randy with joy and gladness.
The school committee is working together registering students and readying to put the necessaries in place for the opening of the school on the 7th September 2009.We are as well praying to the Master and Lord Jesus to make available the funds as we need to start at the school campus near the airstrip.
The mission schedule is ok and I will be in Entebbe Airport on 2nd Sept 2009, 8:15pm to receive you and Pastor Randy, after which we shall join Sister Margaret's family where we shall stay for the night.
In Lira Bishop Tom Okello has offered to host you and Randy in his home where you stay while in Lira. We shall be serving the Lord together with you daily from arrival in Entebbe throughout the mission program in Lira and drive you back to Kampala.
I am in touch with Gulu Pastor Geoffrey Ojera of the Intercessors. He is excited to receive us in Gulu with fellow Gulu pastors. He asked me what time period would we like to spend with the pastors in Gulu? And also whether we would provide some lunch as would be expected for a meeting that could begin in morning hours spaning into the afternoon as pastors usually expect to be provided lunch? I will call him and brief him after hearing from you. However he is already doing his mobilisation.
May I ask if it will be possible to bring a laptop and a camera as it might be very necessary now for our communications and reporting purposes.
Blessings and the peace of God to you, Randy and family as you prepare to fly to Uganda.
Brother James Okori Partner in the Gospel Uganda Ministry - Join the Team!Friends,
The Lord has opened an opportunity for me to spend the month of September in Uganda, Africa launching Africa Hope Bible Institute, ministering to those in need and reaching out to those who have yet to come to know the Lord Jesus.
The first two weeks, I will be teaming up with Pastor Gil Harder -- a long time friend who has been involved in Uganda and other African countries for the past 7+ years. We will be working with local Pastors in Africa to carry out this equipping and evangelistic ministry. Through a local interpreter, I will have the privilege to preach in remote churches in the war ravaged villages of Lira and Gulu in the North and to teach the Word of God to many who are hungry to learn more from the Bible and take the Word to the unsaved in their cities and villages. We will use literature that has been translated into their local languages and leave Bibles and other tools with local Pastors and Evangelists to help continue their ministry.
The last two weeks of September, I will join another 23 people from Solid Rock Fellowship in Portland and and Journey Church in Charlotte for outreach and aid to those in Luzira and Soroti Uganda. We will be ministering daily in the prisons, schools, orphanages, churches, holding open air campaigns in the evenings and more.
This is a great opportunity and privilege to partner with God in an area where He is bringing many to Himself and meeting the practical needs of those who have so little. I need your help to make this happen. In the next few weeks, I need to raise funds to provide hygiene kits for prisoners, bicycles for pastors, farming kits – seeds and tools, Bibles and other items to help our outreach. We would also like to fund several clean water wells since clean water is a scarcity to many. I am trusting the Lord to provide additional aid to these needy people through many of you so please prayerfully consider joining me.
Just as important as the funding – I also need a team of people committed to pray and fast for this mission – especially that lives will be transformed, that the Gospel will reach hundreds who have not heard the Good News and that local workers will receive encouragement, hope and new understanding of God’s wonderful Word.
If you will partner with me through prayer and/or financial support – please make your tax deductible check payable to Jose Zayas Evangelism International (JZEI) and send directly to: JZEI PO Box 1; Portland, OR 97207 On the memo line of your check, please write ‘Howarth-Uganda’. You will receive a receipt from JZEI Ministries for your tax records.
Please contact me at via email at randy.howarth@verizon.net with any questions you may have or to let me know of your commitment to pray for the mission. I will provide further information on how you can get regular updates via the internet as we watch the Lord at work.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon ---
In His Grace – Randy
In Memory of Brett WaltonOn April 9th, PFC Brett Walton was killed in action in Iraq. Brett was 37 years old, married to Lindsey and the proud father of his 5 year old daughter Sydney. He had only been in Iraq for about a month when the Humvee he was driving was attacked with an IED (improvised explosive device), followed by a secondary IED. Brett and 2 other soldiers were killed and another critically injured.
We hear about these tragic deaths daily on the evening news, and they are always sad to hear about. This one was especially hard to hear because Brett was a brother in the Lord and attended the same church we attend.
I attended Brett's memorial service on April 23rd ---- it was a special celebration of His life -- a life of serving the Lord and serving others. Brett had a heart for others and was especially touched by the condition of the people living in Iraq. He wanted to make a difference in their lives, even though it meant leaving his wife Lindsey and his daughter Sydney behind. He sought the Lord regarding the decision -- talked to godly men for counsel and finally decided that this was what he had to do.
Brett was a man totally committed to the Lord and His will. He carried his Bible with him to Iraq -- in a pocket in his fatigues -- and wore a 'dog tag' with his favorite verse -- Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest"
Brett had made plans in case something were to happen to him -- including choosing some of the worship songs he would like at his memorial service. He expected to come home, but was fully aware of the danger. He also knew that it was in God's hands and that if he did not come back, he would go straight to be with Jesus, where he would one day be reunited with his family, who also love the Lord.
The Governor of Oregon attended the service -- a reporter from The Oregonian newspaper wrote a good article on Brett and the memorial -- but what really caught my attention was the reality of our faith in a moment like this one -- evident in the worshipful spirit of his beloved wife and fellow believers in Jesus. This is what Jesus accomplished on our behalf --- providing the full assurance that those who have believed Him and have followed Him will not perish but will live forever. Not just in the memories of loved ones --- but truly live forever with God -- fully forgiven for their sins, cleansed, dressed in righteousness -- never to die, cry, suffer or sin again. Praise be to God for His marvelous gift!
Lindsey, Sydney and all who knew Brett will cry for awhile --- it's hard to be separated from someone you love --even if it's just temporary. But the rejoicing has already begun and will certainly be at it's peak when all are reunited at last, in the presence of the Lord.
"Truly, truly I say to you, He who hears My Word and believes Him who sent me, has eternal life and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life." (John 5:24)
"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)
"And the witness is this -- that God has given us eternal life and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; He who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God -- in order that you may know that you have eternal life." (1 John 5:11-13)
Act Justly, Show Mercy and Walk HumblyHe has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8) "This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. (Zechariah 7:9) *************************************************************************************** It has been interesting to hear media reports lately regarding the Christian Church in the world and the transition that many claim to be witnessing. In the past decades, you could divide professing Christians fairly easily between liberals -- those who focused on poverty, the environment, social issues, but tended to deny the infallibility and Divine nature of the Scriptures. Many denied the divinity of Christ, His second coming and a literal Heaven and Hell. On the other side were conservative Christians -- who, for the most part, hold to the inerancy of the Scriptures and who follow a literal interpretation; who believe that Christ is God in human flesh- that He died for our sins, arose from the dead and is going to return for His Church in the coming days. They have tended to focus on opposing a few key moral issues such as homosexual rights, gay marriage, and abortion. It's true that this is a very simplistic view, as most stereotypes are. People, and groups are much more complex than this, but most of us who claim to believe have associated ourselves with one side or the other. Today - many conservative Christians, who shunned a focus on poverty and the environment, because of it's association with liberals who rejected many sacred Scriptural truths --- now have come to realize that while keeping our eyes on heaven and the return of our Saviour -- we cannot watch as the earth is destroyed by greedy corporations or millions die from Aids, lack of clean water, food or outright genocide. It is refreshing to see the renewed emphasis on helping those who are suffering and in dire need of the basics of life. Even in our own country -- the number of working poor is alarming. I heard today that 42% of single mothers in the United States are living under the poverty level. That means that many children are not getting the nutrition and the basic medical care that they need. The root of the problem is, of course -- sin. Children born out of wedlock -- without the benefit of a loving mother/father --- Drugs and alcohol that take an unfair share of the small amount available for the family --- Greed -- companies paying their executives multi-million dollar bonuses, while hard working men and women are barely surviving -- Struggle for Power -- tyrants and ruthless dictators building their own kingdoms while those within their borders are perishing. Only God can change evil hearts and only He can turn on the fountain of compassion and self-sacrifice for others. That's why we must never stop praying for and sharing the Good News with those who don't know Christ yet and praying for the Holy Spirit to give us the 'mind of Christ'. But -- I believe that it is also time for those who claim to walk with God -- who are looking daily for the return of the Son of God -- who read their Bibles and know that it is the Word of God --- it is time for us to step up to the plate and 'Act Justly, Show Mercy and Walk Humbly with our God'. This means speaking out, in humility, with civility - against corruption and greed. It is immoral to justify multi-million dollar paychecks to build dynasties for the super-rich. It is immoral to pay sports stars many millions of dollars each year while the neighborhood they came from cannot provide a decent education or healthcare for the kids. It also means being active on behalf of those who need our help -- There is no reason that we, as Christ's true Church, cannot greatly increase our giving of time, money, expertise and prayers for those that are suffering and dying day after day - without neglecting our own spiritual needs. You cannot read the scriptures without noticing God's heart for the widow, the orphan, the poor and needy. When Christ walked the earth -- He and the disciples carried a money purse to give funds to those in need. Matthew 25 tells us that when Jesus returns and separates the sheep from the goats -- He will tell those on His right that they are blessed and to enter His joy because they fed the poor, ministered to the sick, welcomed the stranger into their home and visited those in prison. He said that when they did this to the least of His brethren -- they did it to the Lord Himself. I believe that our priority is to "Love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, strength and mind." That will keep us focused on righteousness, purity and the spiritual kingdom Christ announced. Next we are to "Love our neighbors as ourselves" --- "Do unto others as we would have them do unto us." -- "Do nothing out of selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind, consider others as more important than yourself." -- "Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ "--“While we have opportunity, let us do good to all men; especially to those of the body of Christ”. The greatest need our neighbors have is to know the Lord -- because their eternal destination depends on it. The next thing they need is food, water, safety, shelter, medicine and a caring friend who will be there to help in the time of need. Hate the sin -- love the sinner. Never forget where we came from. "For God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were still sinners -- Christ died for us" We have a great example -- let's find a way to make a difference! Want a simple place to start? Adopt a needy child through World Vision -- Send a check to Salvation Army, Mercy Corp, your local food bank. Volunteer to visit the elderly at a local nursing home. Contact Prison Fellowship and see how you can help with prisoners or their children. There are so many opportunities -- and you will be blessed both now and in eternity. Keep looking up!
High on a MountainOne of the benefits of living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest is the opportunity to be a short drive to the rugged ocean or to the majestic Cascade mountains. Since I was a young boy, I have enjoyed playing in the snow on Mount Hood, near Portland. Now, as an adult, I still try to get up to the mountain once a year to go snowboarding.
As you probably have heard on the National news --- 3 mountain climbers recently went missing on the 11,000 ft. mountain and were the object of a massive search. Numerous volunteers scoured the mountain whenever the weather would permit, over a 9 day period.
A black hawk helicopter, 2 drones, and other hi-tech equipment were called in to aid in the search. The families of the men came to Oregon to assist in the search effort. They prayed for the search and rescue teams who were in constant danger of avalanches, steep icy terrain and weather that at times produced 100 mph winds and white-out conditions.
Kelly James, Brian Hall and Jerry Cooke - all experienced climbers, loved mountain climbing and loved God. After praying for the men and their families each day - it was sad and difficult hearing the news. The good news is that because they trusted Christ as their saviour, they will one day be reunited with family members who also believe.
Please join me in praying for those who have had to return home alone, without their loved ones and who must begin the process of healing. May God comfort them with His presence and the re-affirmation of the promises He has given us.
'Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you, for I go to prepare a place for you ... that where I am, you may be also.' (John 14:1-3)
'Truly, truly I say to you -- He who hears My words and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death, into life.' (John 5:24)
Keep looking Up!
A Divine Appointment
My wife and I have really been enjoying watching God answer our prayers regarding opportunities to be used by Him. This afternoon, after a great time worshipping and learning at our local Church -- we went to a mall to do some shopping and then stopped for an early dinner. The food was great, the atmosphere relaxing and since we had skipped breakfast and lunch -- we were very happy to eat something.
Just as the waitress handed me the bill, my wife asked her if her mother's name was "-----". It was! My wife had thought that she looked familiar and had seen her come in with her mother earlier in the year to pick up some items at the place where my wife works. The waitress had lost her sister and her grand-father in a tragic auto accident a while back and as you would expect -- the loss was devastating to the family.
For the next 10 minutes or so, I listened quietly as my lovely wife and this young woman talked through the situation and the continuing impact in her life and that of her mother. It was one of those moments where you sensed the presence of God and knew that it was a Divine appointment where He sent my wife to bring encouragement and hope to a hurting person, in His name.
We both spent this evening talking about this and other opportunities the Lord has given us over the years and the honor of being part of His wonderful plan.
It also reminded me once again why I love my wife as much today and when we were first married many years ago. She is a woman of compassion and sensitivity for others and that is a trait that I rank near the top of the list.
As we start a new week -- let me encourage you to ask the Lord to give you a renewed sensitivity to the needs of others you come into contact with and for Him to allow you to make a difference in their lives by listening, by giving, by touching and by sharing the greatest news in the Universe --- Forgiveness and Grace --- water of life for the thirsty -- the Gift of God through His Son Jesus.
Keep Looking Up! Anonymous PeopleAs I was looking through some of my pictures this week, I realized that I had captured the portraits of several people that I know nothing about, but because of where they were standing at the moment are now a permanent part of our family history. It would be great to know more about them -- who they are, what they are like and their life story. That is not likely to ever happen though.
There is the picture of my daughter and son in-law getting ready to go snowboarding on Mt. Hood. The man standing in the background looks very familiar. Maybe a past classmate or maybe a fellow traveler on a flight --- not sure, but I have the sense that I should know him.
Then there is the picture of my wife, my daughter and little Kendyl at the county fair. The man in the background with the nice smile is a stranger, but he seemed to enjoy watching us take the pictures. I'd love to talk with him - I have the sense that he is a nice man and has a happy marriage. How can you tell from a picture? You can't really, but it's a good guess based on his face and smile.
While traveling in Germany a few years ago, I stopped in a small Bavarian city to buy a sweatshirt before heading up the mountain and saw a beautiful florist shop with a lot of flowers out front. I decided to take a picture of all the colors and it wasn't until later that I noticed I had inadvertently included the posterior of a lady bending over, smelling the flowers. She would be happy knowing that her face wasn't included so she that she remains anonymous.
I'm sure that I have made it into a lot of pictures taken by others as well. They probably wonder who that man is -- but it will have to remain a mystery.
The only one who sees me every moment -- who knows me intimately -- who loves me completely --- is the Lord Jesus. I'm not anonymous to Him and neither are you. That is such an overwhelming thought -- the God who created the universe and everything in it --- knows us and cares for us. He desires a personal relationship with each of us. When He returns from Heaven to take his children home -- He won't be looking for perfect people. He will be looking for those, who have responded to His invitation by faith -- the invitation to walk in a daily personal relationship with Him and to have their sins all washed away.
On that day - I will be especially glad that I am not anonymous and will hear Him call my name.
Today is Thanksgiving Day in the United States -- but everyday is Thanksgiving for those who around the world who have been touched by His love, mercy and grace.
Let me encourage you today to take a few minutes and tell Him what you are thankful for. It will change your day as you recount your many blessings.
Keep looking up!
The SurpriseLast Thursday morning at 4am, my wife dropped me off at the light rail station so that I could get to the airport for a 7:30 flight to San Diego. I had decided to make the trip to help my oldest son with some projects around the house and also to attend my daughter's 30th birthday party on Saturday.
My son knew that I was coming and I had also carefully made arrangements with my son in-law, since I was planning to stay at their house. My daughter however, didn't have a clue that I was coming.
After arriving in San Diego, I spent the rest of the day working with my son and in the evening drove to a laundromat in Pacific Beach, where my daughter was finishing up some laundry. She was folding some clothes while talking to my wife -- her mother -- on the cell phone -- when I walked in the building. She freaked out when she saw it was me -- she was so surprised and excited!
I spent the next two days installing gutters, repairing a screen door and installing a drainage system in my son's yard. As usual, we had to make about 4 trips to the store for parts and never did make it out in the boat, but it was great getting the work done. I was thankful to be able to help but was exhausted after 3 days working in the sun all day.
Last night was my daughters birthday party and we were joined with about 40 of her friends from church, former co-workers from her previous job and other friends at El Torito, for dinner, cake and overall celebration. I loved hearing everyone say what a wonderful woman she is. Of course, I already knew that-- but a Dad is always proud to hear it from others.
Today, we went to the early service at her church and heard a message on Ephesians 5:19-20. The overflow of walking in the Spirit will have us singing hymns, spiritual songs and making melody in our hearts to the Lord. It will also overflow in an attitude of gratitude - thankfulness for all that God is and does on our behalf. Good reminder to let Him have every part of our lives.
My son in-law Jacob, is part of the church worship team (he plays drums, and electric guitar), so he left at 7am and didn't come back home until about 1pm. Today - after lunch, we rode bikes along Mission Bay and this evening walked along the ocean boardwalk/pier.
As you can see -- I took about 70 photos. Since I'm not home yet - I posted them unedited. Typically, I auto-correct brightness and do some cropping to enhance the picture, but that will have to wait until later in the week when I'm home.
Tomorrow - everyone is back at work and I'm headed to Starbucks for coffee in the morning, then spending the day at the beach relaxing before I have to fly home Tuesday afternoon.
It's been rewarding to be able to help my son and to bring my daughter such joy with the big surprise. I think that is what fathers live for-- using our gifts to meet the needs of our family and others in need.
I know that our Heavenly Father loves to help us and to surprise us as well. 'Eyes haven't seen and ears haven't heard the wonderful things that God has in store for us in Christ Jesus.' Right now, we see through a glass darkly -- but one day - we will be face to face with our Lord and we will also be excited.
He is the giver of all good gifts and I'm thankful today and can't wait for the future.
Blessings from beautiful San Diego ----
Keep looking Up!
The Promise of a New LifeLast Friday night, around 9pm -- someone from the church we attend called to say that they needed help. They were organizing a crew for the next morning to do some painting. We are getting ready to move into a new building very soon and there is a lot of work to do. The church has been meeting in a school the past couple of years, but with two Sunday services full, it was necessary to move to a larger facility. Instead of buying a building, the leadership decided to just lease a large warehouse in a business park and completely remodel the building.
Sandy and I had signed up a couple of months ago to help out where ever needed when the time came and Saturday was the time. Sandy stayed home with Kendyl and I had the privilege of helping spray paint a number of interior rooms (it's a lot easier than painting by hand!) It also allowed me to meet a couple of young men that I hadn't met before, which was an added bonus.
We got a lot of painting done and on the way out of the building -- inside the large foyer -- I found a Banded Wooly Bear caterpillar moving frantically, trying to avoid getting squished by the sheetrocker's lift machines or the worker's carrying 5 gallon buckets of paint. I gave him a temporary home in an empty plastic water container and decided he was coming to live at our house for awhile. I knew that Kendyl would enjoy seeing him.
One of the fun things she likes to do is to have me tell her about how a caterpillar walks along (walking my fingers up her arm) and then becomes a butterfly and fly's away. (We skip the caccon and all of the waiting. Two year old's can't handle that!) It always makes her smile and she wants to repeat it over and over.
Anyway - the caterpillar -- 'Fuzzy', now lives with us. He ate an entire plant leaf -- the one in the picture -- in about 2 hours. He must have been hungry from a day of travel. Before his dinner though, He crawled on my Bible and read 1 Corinthians -- smart caterpillar.
Tonight I looked up the info on this type of caterpillar and they are found all over North America, but not anywhere else. They eventually turn into a Tiger Moth. If I can keep him alive over the winter, Kendyl can see the whole process. We'll have to see if I'm up for it. Sandy thinks it's pretty funny that our only family pet is a caterpillar!
You have to admit though, that the caterpillar is such a wonderful illustration of the Christian in this life. Although we are temporarily earthbound and must face the limitations of this physical body for awhile -- when we came to know Christ and were 'born again' -- God gave us His divine nature -- we were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise -- even though outwardly, we look the same.
Now we look forward to the promise of a brand new body in the life to come -- one that is not limited to the physical, the temporal, the corrupt -- but that can 'fly' into eternity unencumbered.
Our new body won't look like our current body anymore than a caterpillar looks like a butterfly, but it will be us and we will be known - both to the Lord and our loved ones who are with us.
Somedays it gets very tiring being a caterpillar - don't you think? It is a long way to walk and there are many obstacles. Just remember that the promise of a new life holds true and the seed is already in those of us who have believed. Trust Him -- It will be worth the wait.
"For this perishable must put on the imperishable and this mortal must put on immortality. ... thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" 1 Corinthians 15:53;57
Keep looking up!
Like I'd LikeIf I were like I'd like to be
I'd be so strong that all could see
The muscles bulging out on me;
If I were like I'd like to be.
If I were like I'd like to be
I'd be so smart that Einstein, he
Would ask advice from only me;
If I were like I'd like to be.
If I were like I'd like to be
I'd be so rich that sea to sea
No one would have as much as me;
If I were like I'd like to be.
But actually, when I reflect,
Some selfishness I do detect;
And that won't do, for God has said
I'd better start to use my head.
The day is near, the night is past,
And life is speeding by so fast;
Just seek for God's Priority
And He will make the change in me.
I'll be the way I'd like to be,
When Jesus' radiant face I see;
Worshipping on bended knee,
I'll be the way I'd like to be.
R. Howarth (1982) The Faithful OneJust like the waves that never stop
Their journey to the shore
My blessed Savior's faithfulness
Keeps coming evermore.
Though often times I fail to see
His purpose or His plan
My trust to Him I fully give
To Him alone I can
For long ago He died for me
And then rose from the dead
Ascending to the Father's side
Exactly as He said
Now I must say that times have come
When I have gone astray
And though I knew the thing to do
I turned the other way
But every time, the path of life
He helped my eyes to see
Lord, thank You that You don't forget
An erring child like me
R.Howarth (1982)
WaitingLofty Clouds Passing By
Glorious
Beautiful
Send Thoughts Upward
Dreaming
Hoping
To His Throne
Terrible
Awesome
To My Home
Pleasant
Peaceful
Come Now Lord
Ready
Waiting
R. Howarth (1982)
Our ComforterExalted now at God's right side
The Son who once was crucified
Gained victory the day He died
And set my spirit free
Temptation He once faced like me
My weaknesses He well can see
So to the Father He does plea
For help on my behalf
Just cry out heart - He hears each sigh
And He will answer by and by
The Lord of Glory draweth nigh
To comfort you today
R. Howarth (1982) RedeemedRedeemed
Regardless of the things once done
Each sin was paid for by the Son
Deposited in farthest sea
Enormous guilt removed from me
Except for blood once shed by Him
My hope of freedom would be dim
Exciting days now lie ahead
Delivered from the living dead.
R. Howarth (1982) Thoughts for TodayFrom the rising of the sun, until the time it goes down -- the name of the Lord is to be praised!
Psalm 113:3
The secret of true thankfulness is to know God for who He really is.
If you don't think you have much to be thankful for --- thank God for what you don't have. (poverty, sickness, famine, et al)
Let us live so that when we die -- even the undertaker will be sorry.
Joy is pleasure without regrets
A person becomes what they have built over the years --- they become bitter or better with time. Look at the wrinkled faces around you and you'll see kindness, humility or anger and bitterness. What are you building?
Joy is not complete until it is shared
No man, at the point of death, ever regretted being a Christian.
It takes very little to convince some men of their own importance.
There is no greater honor in life than to lead another person to the Savior, where they find eternal life and forgiveness of sins.
Is it fair that a person who lives in sin all their life can repent near death and be forgiven while others spend their entire life serving God faithfully? Yes - it is extraordinary Grace. The one with the wasted life has lost the opportunity to serve the Savior and the reward that comes with it -- but He will still be one of the most thankful in Heaven. "He who is forgiven much, loves much"
The only way that evil can triumph, is for good people to do nothing. Christians -- don't forget that spiritual battle is won on our knees.
Go with God --- and Keep Looking Up!
Time for DisciplineI've just recently visited the doctor to have my cholesterol and glucose levels checked. It's one of those things they say you have to do when you are in your fifties. As I expected, the numbers were too high. Now comes the lifestyle changes -- diet and exercise, plus daily medication to get it under control. Taking the medicine is the easy part. Changing the diet and actually exercising again -- that's the hard part. You see -- I am a meat and potatoes kind of guy. I also like breakfast for dinner. Bacon and eggs, or a large omelet make me smile.
My wife isn't much help either. She's a great woman but she loves her junk food. Chocolate, potato chips, crackers, cookies --- well, you get the picture. Our genetic makeup has kept our body sizes under control but now we have to think about the menu. I'm hoping that she will join me on the 'health watch'.
For exercise --- I'm typing this while sitting in the 'exercise room'. Next to me is a $2500 treadmill that we've had for 10 years. Right now Kendyl's PJ's are hanging on it so they can dry. Across from the treadmill is the recumbent exercise bike. It also has some clothing drying on it! I'm sitting on the couch in front of the big screen TV/monitor with a wireless keyboard, mouse and remote control. I don't have to get up for anything! So sad ----
Looks like it's time for some discipline on my part, if I want to give this old body a fighting chance.
It will have to start tomorrow because tonight -- I just finished a bottle of Pelligrino, a chocolate almond biscotti and half a bag of Kettle Corn.
Speaking of Kettle Corn -- Every weekend, at the local Lowe's Home Improvement store --- an elderly gentleman sets up his canopy and makes the best Kettle Corn I have ever tasted. I've tried Kettle Corn at lot's of other places, but his is the very best. The kernels are alway full and plump --- not greasy and just the right amount of sugar and salt.
I end up going to Lowe's almost every weekend. Not necessarily because I need to buy building supplies, but because my wife reminds me that the Kettle Corn man is there and he leaves by 4pm, so we'd better hurry!
The discipline will start tomorrow and I have a feeling that developing some physical discipline will help me be more disciplined in my spiritual life too. 0ur bodies, our mind and our spirit are very closely tied together and impacted by one another - but spiritual discipline is truly the most important.
"For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." 1 Tim 4:8 NKJ As this day comes to a close -- I'd like to leave this little prayer for you ----
"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." 1 Thess 5:23-24 NIV Keep Looking Up! The Day AfterThere are certain times in history that are a point of major change in the life of a country and the life of a person. Once these events take place -- life is never quite the same. In the United States -- there were events such as the assasinations of President John Kennedy, Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King in the early sixties. Before that -- there was the attack by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor. Later -- the first man landing on the moon.
Yesterday was the 5 year anniversary of the horrific events of September 11, 2001 when evil men attacked the United States and killed thousands. This one event has changed our lives in very visible and invisible ways. Visible ways include long security lines at the airport and a color-coded warning system flashed regularly on the evening news. The invisible include a low-level unease, fearfulness that many have knowing that it is only a matter of time before something similar takes place again.
I took the time to watch a couple of documentaries recalling the terrible events of that day. It is important never to forget that there are people who would love nothing better than to steal our peace, kill our sons and daughters, and destroy our God given freedom, given the opportunity.
That day, the unbelievable happened. Bravery was exposed through the firefighters in the World Trade Center buildings, as they tried their best to save thousands trapped in the burning inferno. Thousands were killed when the towers collapsed in a pile of rubble. Even more heroics were seen in a completely different state when the passengers on Flight 93 called their loved ones on the airplane phones and then, after saying goodbye -- took action to stop the terrorist's plot mid-stream.
My heart was heavy as I watched the documentaries and heard the stories of those who lost their life that horrific day. I can only hope that the events continue to motivate people to reject the materialism and self-centeredness of our age and focus more on our loved ones, our neighbors and the God who loves us.
Remember that the Lord is near. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:5-7 NAS Keep looking up ! He is coming back, just as He promised He would. Fall Is In The AirYesterday morning at about 6:30, I walked out to my truck to take my wife to work and noticed that the air was very cool and crisp. It was a sign that fall is almost here. Although I love sunshine and the heat of summer -- I think that Fall is actually my favorite time of year. The leaves turning beautiful colors and falling to the ground; the gardens still full of vegetables and the roses still blooming while they can, before the frost comes and wilts their buds. I also look forward to the holidays that are close by -- especially seeing family at Thanksgiving.
When our kid's were young, we used to visit the local apple orchards and pumpkin patches in the fall. Then in early December, we would scour the hills around Portland looking for the perfect Christmas tree to cut and take home. Both of these activities illicit the same pleasant memories of cold, crisp air -- the kind that makes your breath visible, keeps your hands in your pockets and ensures plenty of coffee or hot chocolate on the stove.
My wife and I have given up on the pumpkin patch and tend to buy a pre-cut tree now from Home Depot. It's not the same -- but we're more into comfort now
 Tonight, Sandy and I watched a movie at home called - 'Unknown, White Male'. It was the story of a man named Doug who lived in New York City and one day found himself walking and had no knowledge of who he was or what he was doing where he was. He turned himself into the police and asked for help sorting out this dilemna. A note in his pocket with a woman's name eventually led him to someone who knew him and who could help him to learn about his past life.
It seems that he had to re-learn everthing about life. He had a new sense of heightened interest in every thing he saw --- bugs crawling on the ground, snow falling from the sky, the way of a man with a woman walking together, and so much more. He met old friends and in some cases -- had no real connection. Without the history of the relationship --- some people were just not interesting anymore. It was like he was a brand new person. He became used to it after a time and questioned whether he would really want to get his memory back.
He found a girlfriend, seemed to be more relaxed than before and questioned what advantage there would be in having the past memories.
It made me think about the Christian life --- The Scripture tells us that 'if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature. The old has passed away. All things have become new.' (2 Corinthians 5:17) The Apostle Paul said 'Forgetting the past -- I press on toward the goal of the upward call of God, in Christ Jesus'.
No one who truly experiences a life changing relationship with Jesus Christ would ever want to re-visit the past. We are indeed 'born again' by God -- new creatures with a new hope. The past is full of shame and is only valuable by contrast in amplifying the Grace of God who has forgiven our sins through Jesus' death on our behalf.
As the seasons change once again this year - and the cold, crisp Fall air greets us each morning -- I just pray that new person God desires to make us -- in the image of His beloved Son, will forget the past and look only to what He has in store for us who trust Him.
Keep looking Up ! ReunionsToday was a busy one. Since my wife's car is leaking coolant, I drove her to work, then tried to get estimates at a dealer and a local independent repair shop. The cost for repairs and the normal 40k mile service will be somewhere between $600 and $1500. Unfortunately, no one can work on it until next Monday. The difference in price is dependent on whether the water pump needs to be replaced.
After getting estimates on the car -- I met a dear friend that I hadn't seen in about 10 years. He's a missions Pastor at a very good church in the area. I picked him up at the church and we spent the next 2 1/2 hours at Starbucks talking and praying together. Bill and I go way back -- In the late 70's, we both worked part-time at United Parcel Service while going to school and both attended the same church together. On many Sunday evenings, after church -- Bill and I would help the needy by buying sacks of food and sometimes getting a hotel room for them. We also had a ministry through the church that provided used clothing. It was a downtown church and there was always a lot of need.
It was a very encouraging time as we reminded each other of God's faithfulness, our desire to serve effectively and the obvious truth that we are both totally incapable of accomplishing anything significant on our own -- but the Lord loves to take weak people like us and to use them to accomplish great things.
I could have stayed and talked all day, but had a one hour conference call to join and some errands to run before the day ended. A trip to the Post Office, the Plumbing wholesaler to pick up a new water heater and it was time to pick my wife up from work.
Tonight, I had another reunion. While perusing Craigslist.com, I ran across a job opening for a major PR firm in the area that has an opening for a Senior Account Manager working the Microsoft account. It happens that one of the managers there is a friend I haven't seen for about 5 years. He attended a church where I was the Pastor over a 5 year period. I called his wife at 8:30 tonight and she said he was in New York on business but she would tell him that I called. Ten minutes later, I had a call from New York. He offered to help me edit my resume to better align with the open position and to drop off the resume to the right people so it gets noticed. It won't get me the job -- but may get me the opportunity to interview. We'll see what happens.
The reunions today were very encouraging. My friend Bill said that Heaven will be like that. Even if we haven't seen people for many years -- we will be able to pick up where we left off like we were never apart.
I trust that you are continuing to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus and are overcoming life's obstacles and challenges by faith in Him.
Keep looking Up !
Labor Day 2006It is a beautiful morning in the Pacific Northwest this Labor Day holiday. After a fairly stressful weekend, it is great sitting in the back yard with my wife, a cup of coffee and listening to the birds in the nearby trees. The sun is shining but it isn't too hot yet, just relaxing and peaceful. Over the weekend, Kendyl knocked over her ear infection medicine leaving a permanent stain in the middle of the family room carpet. After trying multiple recommended solutions to get it out -- it looks like we either live with it or replace the carpeting. A while later, while running errands -- the engine light came on our VW Passat. Looks like the water pump may have gone out. I'll know more tomorrow when I can take it in to be looked at. For now, it sit's in the garage. But today, it's a beautiful morning in the Pacific Northwest.
The news reports have said that tomorrow Intel will announce another 10 to 20 thousand employees will be laid-off, so the competition for jobs is going to increase greatly. Good thing that the Lord is in control.
As I mentioned previously -- I'm reading through Genesis again and read the story of Noah this week. It's such an amazing story. Here's a few of the highlights that impressed me.
There are many parallel's to our salvation in Christ in this story.
Those of us who are in the 'Ark' today and assured of our safety from judgment have the responsibility to tell others to get on board and to pray that they may believe God and turn their hearts to Him while they still have the opportunity.
May you day be filled with Peace and your heart overflowing with Joy -- knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ.
Keep looking up!
Reports of My Demise are Greatly ExaggeratedGreetings! I can hardly believe that I have been away from my blog for nearly a month. A strange thing happened once I was laid-off from my job. I suddenly had more to do than I did when I was working! Compiling my contact lists, posting to job boards, converting health insurance, investigating how to handle stock and retirement accounts, etc.
I also found that all of the projects I had neglected around the house because of my work schedule and travels --- now were calling my name and I didn't have any good excuses for not doing them. That included replacing the range in the kitchen, which required a cabinet alteration --- installing a TV on the wall in the back room; fixing the lawn sprinkler system; and a major cleaning of the garage and a garage sale to get rid of unneeded items. I'm still working on that one.
Anyway -- I am still unemployed after one month, but continue to follow up on numerous leads. My heart's desire is to start a new church in the area but I'm not willing to take that step unless God gives clear direction. It is too important of a responsiblity to take on without His clear blessing and leading. Your prayers for His direction are appreciated.
If that is not His plan -- I will do what I need to do to support my family and will serve Him in the work environment. There is a potential position opening up in a couple of weeks with the company I just left, in sales. I know the hiring manager and we are staying in touch. We'll see what happens.
One thing that I have tried to do is ensure that I start each day spending time in the Scriptures and praying to ensure that my heart and mind are correctly focused before I get busy on other things. I've just started reading Genesis again and God is teaching me so much.
Today, I read again about the first couple - Adam and Eve. They lived in perfect paradise and had intimate fellowship with God -- until that fateful day when they disobeyed God and ushered sin and death into the world. Even in that situation -- God showed His grace, by providing clothing for them and prophesying that one day the serpent who tempted them would be crushed by a special man --- foretelling about His Son- Jesus. (Genesis 3)
I read with sadness about Cain's killing of his brother Abel and thought about the pain that Adam and Eve must have felt losing both sons -- one to death and one to God's curse on Cain. Cain ended up being a wanderer and was no longer able to stay with his parents. Many of us have experienced the pain of a wayward child and it cuts deep.
Sin and disobedience are ugly. It's a fact. Tonight, my wife was watching a TV news show recounting a disturbed couple who would drug young women, rape them and kill them. The attractive couple looked like any normal young couple, but their hearts were so evil that it is hard to imagine.
If Adam and Eve could have pictured what their disobedience would unleash on the world - they would have run away screaming in terror when they were being tempted.
Fortunately -- God, in His great mercy -- didn't close the book at the point of their sin, but set a plan in place to deliver mankind from the horror of sin and evil. The plan began in Genesis, reaches a climax on the Cross at Calvary where Jesus paid the price for our sin and set us free from death and bondage to sin ---- and the book of Revelation paints the picture of God's final plan. It includes the creation of a new Heaven and a new Earth where righteousness dwells and there is no longer any death, disease, sickness or suffering. Evil is gone forever and so are all who loved evil and rejected God.
When you look up at the sky tonight or tomorrow ---- Remember to thank Him for His great mercy toward us and look eagerly for the fulfillment of everything He has promised.
Keep looking up!
How Close Are We?Way back in 1976, as a young man who had a 3 year old son and a child on the way-- I was trying to figure out what life was all about. I was not a Christian at the time -- but I bought a Bible and starting with the New Testament - began reading it every morning trying to see if it had the answers to life, like some claimed. After about six months of reading, I was convinced that it did and I asked Christ to forgive my many sins and to make me the person He wanted me to be. About that time, I also picked up a Christian book that was popular at the time called 'Late, Great Planet Earth' by Hal Lindsey. Lindsey's book was a nice addition because it helped me to better understand the relevancy of what I was reading to today's world. Specifically, it showed that many of the events happening in our world had been prophesied in the Scriptures - in some cases, over 2,000 years earlier -- and that we were indeed approaching the end of the world and the promised return of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. One of the prophecies he pointed to in the Bible had to do with the return of the Jewish people to the land given to Abraham by God - the same land that Moses saw as he brought the children of Israel out of slavery in Egypt to the banks of the Jordan river. This was called the 'Promised Land' because God had promised it to them. But from 40 AD until 1948 -- over 1900 years-- the Jews were not in the 'Promised Land'. It almost seemed during that time like the promise had been broken -- but God always fulfills His promises. Jesus had prophesied that the temple in Jerusalem would be torn down and that not one stone would be left on top of another. That happened when the Romans attacked Jerusalem in 40 AD and destroyed the temple. The Jewish people were dispersed around the world and did not have their own country until 1948, at the end of World War II when those who wanted to were allowed to return to the Holy Land and reclaim the land given so many years earlier by God. This return of the Jewish people to the 'Promised Land' was nothing short of the miraculous hand of God setting the stage for the final act before Jesus returns to earth to take His rightful place as King over all. Jesus said that the days prior to His return would be like the birth pangs of a woman in labor -- the earth will scream in pain before the final deliverance and the joy of seeing the One who died for our sins. There will be wars and rumors of wars, but that is not the end - just the beginning of labor pains. So how close are we today? No one knows the day or the hour -- but we are admonished by the Lord to be on the watch and be ready so we are not caught off guard. The Lord gave us some signs to look for so we won't be unaware of what's happening around us. One thing is for certain -- the final act will be centered on Jerusalem and the Middle East. There will be a World War like the world has never seen before and never will again. Before the end -- 1/3 of the inhabitants of the earth will perish by plagues, smoke and fire. (Rev. 9:18) The final battle of the ages will take place very near where the tensions are today -- This is the final battle of Armageddon, which will usher in the return of the Lord Jesus. (Rev. 16:16) He will return from Heaven - stepping on the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem and a giant earthquake like the earth has never experienced before will split the mount in two and the Lord of the Universe will return to take control and restore peace on earth for 1,000 years. After that - God will judge the world and all who rejected His Son. Satan will be locked away forever (Rev. 20:10) and God will create a new Heaven and new Earth where righteousness lives for eternity. (Revelation 21:1) A Jewish Rabbi was asked during a television interview this week what he thought about the Christian's claim that the events in the middle east are a precursor to the return of Jesus Christ from Heaven. He said that 'when the Messiah comes, we will ask Him if this is His first visit or if He has been here before. That will determine whether we will stay Jewish or become Christians.' That's an interesting answer -- because faithful Jews do indeed believe that the Messiah will come to deliver them as promised in the Scriptures --- Jesus however claimed that not only was He the Messiah, but that He was the Son of the Living God -- and He proved that His claims were true by rising from the grave after 3 days - just as He said He would do. The day will come when the Jewish people - chosen by God Himself -- will recognize this. The Scripture says that Christians will be taken up to be with Jesus - often called the 'Rapture'. Then, 144,000 Jews who recognize that Jesus is their Messiah, will receive Divine protection from God as they testify to the world that Jesus Christ is indeed the Savior of the World. (Rev. 7:3-8) After that -- the end will come. How close are we? I fully expect that the generation alive today will see the glorious appearing of our Great God and Savior. We are certainly much closer than when I became a Christian in 1976 and had my life changed forever. Close enough that every day we awake, we should be focused on how we can walk close to the Lord, in intimate fellowship, in righteousness, in purity --- and helping others who are still seeking for answers -- to find the One who puts all of the puzzle pieces of life together. Even so -- 'Come Lord Jesus' Maranatha!
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