Today, April 10th, I send a special birthday blessing…for my friend Joe Egan.

• Joseph….may your Irish eyes always be smiling,
• May God’s blessings rain upon you each day,
• May God bless you and make his love known to you through your family, friends…and even strangers.
• May you in turn be a blessing to others,
• May God strengthen you and enable you to face each challenge he brings your way,
• As you look back on each day…plainly see God’s hand upon you and in each circumstance,
• As you end each day…may your lips sing forth with praise and thanksgiving to God,
• To the God who created you, knew you and formed you in your mother’s womb….low those many years ago.

God bless and Happy Birthday Joe…I hope this will be your best year yet.

Have you ever received a card in the mail…with an offer for a free sample of a product? A brand or something that you don’t normally buy…so you think, “Hey…I’ll give it a try.”

That’s what I said when I received an offer for some free pantyhose…Silkies. I filled out the card and within a few weeks…I received my free sample. Actually I kind of liked the hose…and would probably have purchased them at the store. That is until I found out this company engages in fraudulent and deceptive business practices.

You see not only did I get my free sample…but shortly thereafter I receive another mailing of their product. I didn’t realize that this time it was not free sample…but instead…the beginnings of their fraudulent business practice.

First they send the “free sample”. Next they send more product…then a few weeks later you get the bill…for product you didn’t order or authorize.

Now that’s bad enough…but then I went to their website. I wanted to make sure there was no further misunderstanding…that they knew I didn’t order their product, nor want it. However…you can’t cancel your account or delete any orders on their website.

Now these folks are downright shifty. On their invoice there is no place to cancel an order or note that you don’t want their product.

So what’s a girl to do when taken in by fraud? Well first…a complaint and direction to Silkies customer service to cancel the account and to make sure they know I don’t appreciate their fraudulent business practice.

Second…a trip over to the FTC website to file a complaint.

Lastly…an article to forewarn others who might fall prey to fraud…in particular by SILKIES but also by others seeking to gain by dishonesty.
I come away from this experience leery and jaded. Silkies thinks they are quite clever by conducting business in this manner. However…it will on serve to backfire on them. Not only will I never purchase their product again…I will make sure I warn others about their company.

Next time…any “free offer” cards come my way…they will go in the trash. So other legitimate businesses seeking to get their product noticed…will fail with this girl. Taken in by fraud this time…but coming away a little wiser.

Be forewarned…throw those “free offers” in the trash.

This week has been a lesson in pain…physical pain. Specifically how all consuming it can be.

Sunday evening lead into a week of a migraine headache. To make matters worse…my wisdom teeth decided to do an unwise and untimely thing…by trying once again to make an appearance. Then to add to the equation my sinuses said, “Hey…its springtime…let see what havoc we can cause.” So to say I was in pain…is an understatement.

This blessed migraine has lasted all week. At times thankfully it’s been less obnoxious…but it’s still hanging on today.

Tuesday and Wednesday were the worse…and sleep evaded me. I had to sleep sitting up because the pain was just throbbing when I laid down. Little did my sister know…but she almost received a phone call in the middle of the night to take me to the emergency room.

I think I cried out to God more this week than ever before. Finally on Wednesday night…when I could not bear another night of pain and no sleep…I sent a quick prayer request off to Kindred’s Prayer Team. Within a few minutes of sending that off…the pain eased up from about a level 10 to a level 1 or 2…allowing me to rest. I cried with relief and gratitude…and for the first time in days…was able to sleep.

Trying to sleep sitting up is awful. All I could think of was my dear Pastor Chuck…and how he had to do that towards the end of his cancer coaster. I just did it for a couple of nights…and it was hard. I can’t even imagine what its like for extended periods of time.

Finding something that can bring relief from physical pain can become all consuming quest. Even to bring it down a notch…so it’s bearable. My pain killer of choice Advil…is no longer an option…since I’m allergic and breakout in hives. Aspirin isn’t an option either…so I’m left with Tylenol. Grateful for something…but it’s just not a great pain killer.

It’s not uncommon to hear of pharmacies having burglaries or theft of Vicodin. Why…I’ll never know. On Tuesday night…I took a Vicodin left over from an earlier prescription…and I could have saved myself the time. It made absolutely no difference.

In the midst of the pain…I cried out to God for help. Not in any way an eloquent prayer…but one uttered in desperation. Trying to figure out why the pain was relentless and my prayers not being answered…I confessed my sins that came to mind. Yet the pain continued. So then I asked God to reveal to me what he wanted me to learn from this experience…just wanting to put an end to it.

Physical pain lessens my ability to concentrate and perform well. I’m distracted because of the pain. I was amazed that I was patient in dealing with some people and situations…I would have guessed other wise. But it’s very wearing…and just getting the basics done when I get home at night was an accomplishment. Ironing clothes for the next day or taking out the trash was difficult. I think I will have a new appreciation for being able to complete simple tasks…like washing dishes.

It got me thinking about emotional pain and how one might seek whatever means necessary to make that stop too. While different from physical pain…it can be as difficult to bear. And what about spiritual pain? What does that look like…and what do I do to bring relief?

Definitely not a road I would have chosen to go down. One…from which I’m looking for a quick exit. Thankfully I ended the week…with the pain level reduced. The migraine has lessened and even gone away for hours at a time. I’ve been able to sleep which I have a new appreciation for…after finding sleep so evasive.

Prayerfully I hope that this episode is something of the past, very soon. But, boy oh boy, what a wake up call…to pain and what some people deal with on a daily basis.

Bible Study Fellowship has been a huge blessing in my life. It’s helped me to grow in wisdom and knowledge of God’s Word. It’s helped me better apply it to my life. It’s been both convicting and encouraging.

A couple of gems from tonights study…the above acronym on faith. I also took away the reminder that preoccupation with God’s goodness is the secret of growing old gracefully. May it be true in my life.

Notes taken from Bob Kranings sermon on 4/2/06

“Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” Mathew 5:4

There are three perspectives on this passage:

1) Mourning for a world of sin without Christ
2) Mourning over our own sin
3) Mourning over great losses in our life

All our heartbreak and hurt…if only it was as simple as a 2nd grader’s. But life is much more difficult. The Bible does not explain suffering. But it does try and teach us how to handle suffering and to trust our God in the midst of it.

Mourning…when we suffer a great loss. How do I receive comfort in the midst of suffering?

1) Realize that God is with me even in the midst.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

God is totally aware of your pain. God cares that you are suffering and in pain. God is able to see you through.

So how much time does it take until it gets better? More for some…less for others.

After Job had lost everything he said, “He keeps close watch on all of my paths.” Job 33:11b

“I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears, behold, I will heal you.” 2King 20:5b

“God is our refuge and strength and an ever-present help in times of trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

“Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7

God provides the grace to help you in your time of need. Awareness and assistance…God will walk with you through the difficult times. Are you growing in your pain? Or have you gotten stuck in your pain?”

“All sunshine makes for a desert.” Bears no fruit if there is only sunshine. Fruit bearing requires a little rain.

Quote: I walked a mile with Pleasure, She chattered all the way; But left me none the wiser, For all she had to say. I walked a mile with Sorrow And ne’er a word said she; But, oh, the things I learned from her When Sorrow walked with me! – Robert Browning Hamilton

The kindness of friends and comfort and compassion of our God can see us through.”
2) Release the hurt. Stop focusing on what was lost…and instead focus on what is left.

“Behold, I will do something new, Now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it?I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, Rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:19

You have a couple of options. A) Repress your past, hurt, pain and loss. Pretend like it doesn’t exist. Become like the walking wounded. 2) Release it. Rethink it…second guess yourself again and again.

But the difference between mourning and moaning. Moaning…a pity party. Not getting over feeling sorry for yourself.

In his book. Lee: The Last Years, Charles Bracelen Flood reports that after the Civil War, Robert E. Lee visited a Kentucky lady who took him to the remains of a grand old tree in front of her house. There she bitterly cried that its limbs and trunk had been destroyed by Federal artillery fire. She looked to Lee for a word condemning the North or at least sympathizing with her loss. After a brief silence, Lee said, “Cut it down, my dear Madam, and forget it.” It is better to forgive the injustices of the past than to allow them to remain, let bitterness take root and poison the rest of our life.

3) Resent. Option three…you can continue to resent people, things and even God. Push away the one …the only one who can comfort us in our sorrow.

4) Release it…let God comfort and control.

14 But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. – Psalm 10:14

Don’t push through the time of mourning. Let God help and take you through the mourning.

4) Rely on God’s resources. (Look up the message translation.)

“You never know Jesus is all you need, until he’s all you have.” Mother Theresa

The world has many escapes…drinking, drugs, money and sex among many other things..

God rescues us through the mourning:

a) God’s Word…look up verses about comfort, healing and help. God tells us that his word can make a difference in our lives. Let God help you to let things go, in his timing.

b) God’s people is another resource. People who will pray for you. Those in whom you can fully disclose in confidence.

“God comforts us in our hurt and our pain and our loss so that we may comfort others in their pain, with the same comfort with which we were comforted.” 2 Corinthians 1:4

God brings people in your path who has suffered similarly. When we have seen and know God’s understanding…we too will be able to know and understand another’s pain. Some are able to care because they’ve been there.

c) God’s Spirit –

The spirit of God is there to minister to us in our pain. How do we handle our pain? Run and try to fix ourselves or to call out to the God of heaven to minister to ourselves and others.

We sorrow and mourn, but not as those who have no hope. God tells us, “I’m aware, I care and I will be with you and I will help you in and through your pain.”

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10b

Tonight while finishing up at work…and before heading off to my weekend…I encountered an ordinary hero.

While inputting some last minute data…I looked up from my computer and encountered the smiling face and warm eyes of Elias. From the first moment I encounter him…I knew this was a special person. Elias has a peace, joy and happiness that radiates from him.

He offered a friendly hello…and reminded me it was Friday and that the weekend was here. Usually I’m quite focused…and able to tune out distractions…but this time I found myself chatting with this rather intriguing man. I asked how he was doing…and he said that he was feeling better because he was not sore anymore after running the LA marathon with his son.

He then told me that this was his second marathon…that he had run with his son. He had not been a runner until just last year. Now I’d guess Elias to be in his fifties. But I wasn’t surprised to hear that he had beaten his son in last year’s marathon. This year…his 27 year old son beat him by two minutes…both finishing the race in a little over five hours.

There was a definite pride that shown forth. Not a boastful pride…but a pleasure in the commitment and success that he and his son had achieved. But more important is the relationship that they enjoy. The proud dad shared that his son is in college and going for his bachelor degree.

Then Elias introduced himself to me…and showed the E & J on his shirt…the E stood for Elias. He was there to make sure that his cleaning crew was doing a good job. A small businessman who had started his business 20 years ago. He did not take accounts for granted…but was following up to make sure his crew was doing quality, detailed work.

He went on to share that tomorrow he was speaking at church and going to tell a story that he had written. A story that is a picture of the world with it’s temptations, distractions and dangers…and of God who loves us so much…that he reached down to pull us to safety. Elias said he likes write…and when he looks things…he likes to make stories about them.

As we parted company…Elias showed me his I-pod Nano. On it was engraved his name…and the saying “Success is a Choice”. Not just a phrase…but a way in which this man lives and walks each day. As he walked away…he stopped to write down a phrase from a motivational picture about perseverance.

A brief and unexpected encounter…but one that I will never forget. Creative…Motivated…Positive…Radiating the Love of God. An indelible impression was made upon my soul…by this man…just An Ordinary Hero.

Being that it’s thirteen Thursday…I’ve decided to reflect on thirteen of my favorite things.

1. Favorite book of the Bible…Roman’s – it’s such a full bodied book. It helps me try and understand God in his sovereignty, his omnipotence, his holiness and righteousness. It brings me great peace to know of God’s grace. And I’m glad to know that my God is so big that I will never fully understand him. Who can fully comprehend the concepts of free will and God’s sovereign will as it applies to our salvation. But Paul wrestles with these concepts and stretches your mind and spirit. By the way…starting in September…BSF Bible Study Fellowship is studying the book of Romans. So if you are interested…sign up…it’s an awesome study.

2. Favorite book of the Old Testament…Genesis – Again…like Romans…this book is so deep. You could read it for a lifetime and never get bored. Each time I read Genesis…I learn new things. And the people/characters in Genesis…are those whom the Judeo Christian faith started with.

3. Favorite New Testament Character…well now that’s a toss up between Paul and Peter. Paul…what an incredible man…so transformed by Jesus. From one persecuting and killing Christians…to one who took the gospel message to the world.

4. Favorite Apostle…Peter. Okay…I solved my dilemma by choosing Peter in this category. Why Peter…because I feel most like him. Bold enough faith to step out of the boat and try and walk on water…yet sinking when he gets his eyes off Jesus and on the storm instead. Peter…who at one moment proclaims that Jesus is the Christ…and the next is telling Jesus may it never be…about him going to the cross. I feel most like a Peter. Good intentions…love my Lord…and have a big mouth in which my feet can be frequently found.

5. Okay…how about favorite coffee? Starbucks Breakfast Blend. Smooth, steady…but light. But in no way wimpy.

6. Favorite coffee place and drink? That’s easy…the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Now really…must I limit myself to one drink? Favorite coffee drink…a large vanilla latte with soy milk, an extra shot…extra hot. Another treat…is the white chocolate latte…oh yeah. But why limit yourself to just one? Favorite tea latte…Blueberry Pomegranate Tea Latte…with soy of course. And of course a scone to go along with it…blueberry or cherry please. Really…honest and truly…you deserve a treat today…so you head on over to the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.

7. Favorite movie…shucks…I don’t know for sure. There are certain movies I could watch over and over again…and never grow tired. Rudy…just love that movie. Groundhog Day…As Good As It Gets…A Wonderful Life…You’ve Got Mail…Apollo 13. Well I guess there won’t be just one favorite movie. So on to the next favorite.

8. Favorite radio show…Dennis Prager. Wonderful…and I really feel like I am getting an education. Between the wisdom and knowledge of Dennis and that of his guests I can’t help but learn and grow. (Now Dennis has annoyed me of late over his flaking on his subscription service…but dog gone it…still love the man.)

9. Favorite author…that’s a little bit hard. But if push comes to shove…and I had to pick one author’s books to have with me on a deserted island…I’d pick Jan Karon’s books. Positively delightful…simple and easy…yet profound. When reading her books…you feel like you could step into the pages and onto the streets of Mitford…and make friends with characters therein. Lovely.

10. Favorite TV or Radio Ministry…Charles Stanley with In Touch Ministries. He has heart and love for God. A high view of God…and a love, care and compassion for man. Rooted and grounded in the Word of God.

11. Favorite church? Oh come on…that’s not even a contest. Of course it’s Kindred Community Church…and all the wonderful people that are members…and attend. I extend a personal invitation to any of you who would like to attend. Click on the above link for service times and directions.

12. Favorite Pastor…my dear beloved former Pastor…Chuck Obremski. Passionate for God and his Word. No nonsense…loved truth…and loved people. He was real…and shared openly and honestly…both the good and the bad. I look forward to seeing him in heaven one day soon.

13. Favorite attribute of God…grace. Why? Because I am in such need of an outpouring of grace each day. And I also need to learn that attribute as well so I may extend it to others.

Continuing to look at the list from Revive Our Hearts that compares the attributes of persons who are proud verses those who are broken.

Proud = Concerned with being respectable, with what others think; work to protect their own image and reputation.

Broken = Concerned with being real; what matters to them is not what others think but what God knows; are willing to die to their own reputation.

Proud = Find it difficult to share their spiritual need with others.

Broken = Willing to be open and transparent with other as God directs.

It’s always important to keep in mind God’s perspective.

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” – Psalm 51:17

“He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.” Proverbs 3:34

At Bible Study Fellowship tonight…our teaching leader Terri shared a very convicting list…or self inventory. She only read a few items on the list…but oh my goodness. When I got home…I did a quick internet search and found the list.

I think I will focus on one or two items at a time…so as to better evaluate myself. I hope that you will do the same. If you would like to view the full list…please click on the link to Revive Our Hearts Radio.

Proud People = Quick to blame others

Broken People = Can accept personal responsibility and see where they are wrong in the situation

Proud People = Unapproachable or defensive when criticized

Broken People = Receive criticism with a humble and open spirit

When reflecting about stress…and what’s its like for me…I describe it as having a full plate and people keep coming along and adding to that already full plate. Unaware of what else I have pending and the urgency of it. In other words…they can be rather oblivious to anything other than their request.

At the Women’s Retreat at Kindred Community Church this Saturday…one of the topics was stress. As I reflected further on stress I realized…that on occasion God may add to my full plate. Unlike people he is fully aware of what’s on that plate…yet he may choose to put more on it. Why? Perhaps the reasons vary. But I think that one aim that God may have in doing so is to encourage me to turn to him. To recognize that I am unable to carry the load on my own. Another reason…may be to get me to wake up to the fact that I’m carrying loads that he never intended for me to carry. I’m taking on undue burdens.

Have you ever offered to help someone…and can plainly see they need assistance? Yet…they refuse your help…even when it’s genuinely offered with good intentions.
How many times do I fail to accept God’s help?

How many times am I oblivious to the cares and concerns of others…when I go to them and need something? Am I solely focused on what I need…and not see what pressure, stress or needs they have?

By Jason Whalen – 3/26/06

This week Bob Kraning was away…and we had guest speaker/Pastor, Jason Whalen give this morning’s message. Jason is on staff at Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton. It was pleasure hearing Jason speak…he has a passion for God…is well rooted and ground in the Bible and has a high view of God. Jason’s message was from John 1:1-3. Below are notes taken during Jason’s sermon.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” – John 1:1-3

Truth came to life. To live is Christ, to die is gain. Chuck Obremski’s life was a picture of these words. These are words not only to say…but words to live by. The gospel really works.

Some things in this life seem muddy and unclear. But God’s word is clear. Some things…God’s word and the truth’s therein are iron clad. The glory of God is seen throughout the gospel. The gospel…the Bible…that’s clear…its iron clad.

Now some example of not so clear messages…can be found in church bulletins:

• The sermon this morning: “Jesus Walks on the Water” The sermon tonight: “Searching for Jesus”
• Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say “hell” to someone who doesn’t care much about you.
• This evening at 7 P.M. there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
• Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.

Unlike humans…God never makes mistakes…or gives an unclear message. God desires that we his bride, the church of Christ, grow.

John 1:1 – In the beginning was the word (logos):
1) – Revelation…what has been revealed.
2) – Life and light….purpose…a certain kind of life and light.
3) – Invitation

Logos = A principle originating in classical Greek thought which refers to a universal divine reason, immanent in nature, yet transcending all oppositions and imperfections in the cosmos and humanity. An eternal and unchanging truth present from the time of creation, available to every individual who seeks it. A unifying and liberating revelatory force which reconciles the human with the divine; manifested in the world as an act of God’s love in the form of the Christ.

1) Revelation
Logos is God. God of eternity past…he has never not been. Created everything that has been made. Why didn’t God say that in the beginning was Christ?

Logos…the absolute elite. All meaning, reason and ideals. The pinnacle…the source of everything.

Jesus invests the word logos into a person. Jesus is the ultimate reality in all the universe. But he is knowable today.

The logos entered time and space. John 1:10 “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.” Something new has begun…a new thing.

God spoke to us through his Son. Jesus has made God known to us. No one has ever seen or heard God. John 1:18 “No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.”

Do you take these concepts and implant them in your heart? Jesus is prepared to see you through any circumstance that you face.

He created time and space. Colossians 1:17 – “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” He created the universe and sustains it. He holds the universe together and even our very lives and family.

2) Light and life…he came to give us a certain kind of life…a life in him. John 1:4-5 – “In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.”

Life…Bios and Zoë.
Bios – biological life…air, blood, oxygen.
Zoë life…experience, vitality and passion.

We have a choice…to live a transforming life…or one in which we just go through life. In Mere Christianity…C. S. Lewis talks about the difference between Bios and Zoë.

We can live a life of vitality and significance…one of purpose…large. Bios or Zoë life…it’s the difference between looking at a picture…and living a real life and actual experience.

Jesus has given us this life. Before we were under the weight of the law or lived under paganism.

Light verses darkness. The darkness has not understood it (the light). Did not grasp it nor conquer it.

Darkness – danger, aimless, disorientation and fear.

But God…gave us a light that would fill our lives. Light…safety, purpose, pathway, peace and confidence that settles in us. An intelligence…not to make you smarter…but one that can change your life. We are to be light bearers. The darkness is expelled because of the light. No longer living in confusion, anxiety or difficulty.

3) Invitation

John 1:10 – “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.” The world did not recognize him…and did not receive him. He gave us the right…the authority to become the children of God.

Beginning…the ultimate reality…God himself. He created everything, came to give light and life. He can do this with you…only he can do this…not you. You are a child of God. You are a child of purpose.

John 1:13 – “13children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

Need more clarity in your life? Invite Jesus to shine more light into your life…more clarity…to give you something greater.

With the admonition from my dear beloved former Pastor, Chuck Obremski to “Be a pig for Jesus” how could I resist the temptation to purchase this little garden pig?

Honestly…there are days in which I would much rather be the chicken…and just contribute to the meal…by giving an egg or two. Especially when the opposition is great…the days are dark…the silence is overwhelming…and the rewards are few.

But that is not what my Savior has called me to do. He instead has called me to be fully committed…sold out to God. In other words…be like the pig who has given his all. Not just a contributor…but one who is fully committed.

It’s been a while…quite a while since I’ve been down to visit the flower fields in Carlsbad. My mom Gayle and step dad Joe use to live down in the Carlsbad/Oceanside area. Each year…about this time…I’d drive down and we’d make the trek over to see the flower fields.

Walk the lovely hillsides covered in flowers. Some days…sunny and bright with a lovely sea breeze blowing and sometimes overcast with a slight chill in the air. Those days the visit would be abbreviated as a light rain would start to fall.

It was really odd driving down there today. Filled with lots of memories. Some good…some not so good. Unfortunately…the last memories of spending time down in Oceanside were surrounding Joe’s death…and about a year later…my mom being diagnosed as having Alzheimer’s. Stressful…difficult…not real pretty.

But also memories of some good times…came to mind. That included visits to the flower fields…or a trip over to a great fish house…Fish House Vera Cruz in downtown Carlsbad…or maybe even catching a movie or a trip to the shopping mall.

It’s also been quite a while since I’ve had any quite time…down time…time away. A day…where I could spend it doing nothing or whatever I wanted. A time where there were no demands, no one asking for things…or needing this or that.

A time for quite…to just sit. So after walking the spectacular flower fields…I sat down on a garden bench. A truly lovely day…a perfect day. Sunny…but not too hot. Not a cloud in the sky…and slight breeze blowing off the ocean onto the hillside. I was quiet…and felt God impressing thoughts and ideas upon me. Thoughts that all too often I drown out or don’t make time for…because I’m a human doing not a human being.

So…here are some of my lesson I learned today…just in random order. Bible Study teacher Beth Moore calls them God Spots. Today…I had a God Spot…and God spoke to my spirit.

• Enjoy the trip…not just the goal. The journey may be long…and the journey is really where you prove your character. Or the lack thereof is revealed.
• Really the end goal is a small piece of the puzzle compared to the journey…so make the most of it.
• In looking at the flower fields…there was the contrast between some of the fields that were in full bloom and those whose blooms were sparse. When I’m connected to God…my harvest is plentiful…when I’m not….when I’m doing it on my own power…the harvest is rather sparse.
• In looking at the fields of purple flowers…I noticed a lone white flower. It stood out…and sometimes I feel like that lone flower in the midst of a huge field with plants of another kind. That’s when I feel out of place…out of my element.
• Sometimes you have to go through difficult times…to get through the other side and see the good and beautiful things that God has in store for you. But you have to go through it…there no way around it…or out of it. But God will be with you in it.

You ever have one of those days…when you feel like you can’t go on? Where you can’t go one more day. You feel defeated…and you are ready to throw in the towel. Well recently…that’s been my attitude. But God. Yes…God. God knew and God saw my defeated spirit…and sent just the right message, at the right time. He did so in the form of a message from Focus on the Family.

On Wednesday, March 15th, Focus on the Family aired a broadcast with Pastor Herb Lusk…from Greater Exodus Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Pastor Lusk was speaking at a Focus on the Family event…about staying in the fight. Defeated, knocked down, bludgeoned, bloody…but get back up and go one more round.

Well…it was just the message I needed at the time. I was driving to work, listening to that message…and was bawling like a baby. It really touched my soul deeply. So…I listened to the program again…and this time I jotted down some notes from Pastor Lusk’s speech. So…for those of you who are feeling defeated…read the notes below then click over to the One Place to hear the Focus on the Family broadcast from March 15th. You will be encouraged.

The church…must have the Zeal of a Zelig.

Everywhere Christians go…you have to make a decision. Don’t be passive about what you believe. Christianity today involves confrontation.

The church today is not in the defensive mode, but offensive.

Matthew 6:18 – And I tell you that you are Peter,[a] and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades[b] will not overcome it.[c]

Have you ever seen a passive gate? Gates don’t attack somebody. The child of God today…must rush the gates of hell. Have the spirit of a soldier. We wrestle not against flesh and blood.

Time to take things back. The devil has set up strongholds…even in our churches. The devil is crazy enough to come into our homes and churches. Are you crazy enough to stand up against him?

Ephesians 6:11-13 – Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Unlike boxing…wrestling is up close and personal. In boxing you jab and get out. Wrestling you’ve got to get close. Hand to hand combat. You can’t get in and get out anymore. Have the spirit of a soldier and take back our country and our families from the enemy.

We need the guts of a gladiator. Be prepared to die. For me to live is Christ…to die is gain. We need to die to self. Be prepared to die. You can not hurt a man who believes that death is a positive option. There is nothing you can do with a man or woman like that. You can’t bribe them, you can’t buy him, you can’t turn him off, you can’t break his spirit, and you can’t take away his spirit.

Think of the story of Jacob…who wrestled with an angel all night. He wouldn’t let go. And the angel tried to call a time out but Jacob said no. Jacob wouldn’t let go until the angel blessed him. The kingdom of heaven needs to advance forcefully.

Are you willing to struggle? Paul said I press towards the prize of the high calling of Christ Jesus. To press means you have to push, bear down…it requires effort to press.

Like an athlete…we judge the effectiveness of a running back by the yard he makes after he’s been hit. YAC yards…yards after contact. Anybody can gain yards running through a large hole unopposed. How many can you make yards after you’ve been hit? When the bottom falls out? How many yards can you gain after you’ve been hit? When the bottom falls out, the road get rough and the going gets tough? And the hills are hard to climb and folks start calling you names and the crush is on…how many yard can you make then?

Every child of God ought to be able to make YAC yards. After you’ve been talked about, after you’ve lost your job, after your sickness. Job did this…after he lost it all he said, “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him.”

Years ago there was prize fighter called John L. Sullivan…the best heavy weight champion of the world at that time. He went up against a pipsqueak…given a thousand to one odds to beat John L. Sullivan.

Round one…he was hit so hard his whole body shook. He went over to his corner and his trainer asked him how he was doing and he said alright…but that first shot he hit me with I could feel it from the top of my head to the bottom of my feet…but I said to myself…if I could go just one more round.

Next round…John L. Sullivan hit him so hard he came up off the ground…and he came down hard. He fell on his back…and was saved by the bell. They drug him over to his corner again. The trainer said…you want me to throw in the towel? He said no…let me see if I can do it one more round.

He came back out on the next round and John L. Sullivan hit him and cut his eyes. His eyes were so filled with pus that he couldn’t see. He went back over to the corner…and they took razor blades and slit his eyes so he could see. The trainer said…do you want me to throw in the towel? He said…no, no, no…just one more round.

He went out the next round and John L. Sullivan hit him so hard that literally he was praying that it would be the knockout punch. But the punch didn’t knock him out and he said to himself…if I could just make one more round.

It was the longest prize fight in history at that time. He went back out again the next round…and got knocked down three times. And guess what he said? Just one more round.

He came out in the twentieth round…bludgeoned, standing and trying to cover himself. And guess what he said? Just one more round.
Twenty five rounds of fighting…and over and over again he said to himself…just one more round. Over and over again he said to himself…one more round. Bloody and bludgeoned he said to himself…just one more round. Eyes cut…but one more round. Legs weak…but one more round. Too tired to stand…but one more round.

That last round he came out and hit him…and knocked John L. Sullivan out.

Church we have a John L. Sullivan in our midst. He is the devil…and he is a liar and the truth is not in him. When he hits you…say one more round. Just one more round, just let me stand one more round. Give me strength, just one more time. One more round…one more time.

And you will knock him out!

Waves of Mercy…Waves of Grace…

As a follow up to my recent article on forgiveness…I wanted to throw out a few more reflections. This has been a challenging area for me…for a multitude of reasons. God is definitely working on my heart…and for that I give thanks.

When you hold on to unforgiveness, anger, bitterness and resentment…your hands are full and unable to accept or receive something good or new that God wants to give you. Until you are willing to lay it down…and give it over to God…you will be unable to receive goodness and mercy from your heavenly Father.

When I forgive someone for a hurt, it means I’m giving up my right to get even or take action against someone for a wrong suffered. It also means I’m trusting God. I’m trusting that he knows best. He knows the persons involved, motives and the reason something happened. If God finds it necessary to bring punishment, he will, in the appropriate and perfect time. However…he may also choose to demonstrate mercy…even to one who is seemingly unworthy. All who are saved…can say a big Amen and Thank You!

Forgiveness means trusting that God will redeem bad circumstances or wrongs done to us. Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

God alone is able to bring good out of bad. It may not be immediate…it may not be in the form that we are expecting. It will likely be from a different person than the one who harmed us. But He will give us beauty for ashes.

Isaiah 61:3
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.

Forgiveness for a wrong suffered also demonstrates confidence that person who hurt us will be punished for what they did. At the appropriate time…and to the measure that God deems just…they will be punished. Sometimes it seems as if people get away with wrong doing and are not punished. But we can rest assured that our God is just and will bring justice on our behalf. They may even get away with sin and evil in this life…but a price will be paid…even if it’s the eternal life to come.

Remember that God’s mercy demonstrated towards sinners is a tool that he uses to draw people to himself. If a person rejects God, does not accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and the sacrifice for their sins…they will be without excuse.

Sometimes it’s tempting to remain in unforgiveness until such time as the person who hurt you acknowledges it and apologizes. Then of course you can be magnanimous and forgive them. A few things wrong with this approach. What happens if they don’t acknowledge it and don’t apologize? Just how long are you willing to wait? How long will you remain in unforgiveness? Should you forgiving another person be predicated upon their repentance? Was God’s forgiveness withheld and the payment for our sins paid only after we repented? No…God had a plan in place from before the foundation of the world.

God’s forgiveness was given…now our choosing to accept and receive it…that is another matter.

When I remain unforgiving towards a person who hurt me…I’m the one that’s miserable…not them. They are off and on their merry way…living their life. And there I am miserable and still hurting…taking a double hit on pain. However, if I had forgiven the hurt I’d be over it…and on to something new in my life. Life is to stressful on it’s own than to add to it…when in fact there is a simple solution. A solution called forgiveness.

When you focus on a hurt and the pain and remain unforgiving…you are unable to move on. You are focused on the past. Not the present…and not the future. You are not looking at what God is doing in your life. You are not looking with expectancy at what God can and will do in your life. Instead you are caught up on a moment in time…and not even a good one at that. Why would you want to relive over and over and over again bad things? I can almost understand the temptation to relive good things…but bad stuff? That doesn’t make a lot of sense now does it?

Sometimes unforgiveness can be used as a barrier to keep you from being hurt again. You have that permanent wall up that keeps people away. Not willing to suffer again…and be deeply hurt. So rather than take a risk…you keep people away. Does that mean you are not hurting? No…you’re just picking your poison. In exchange for what? Nothing good…that’s for sure. In your attempt to kept the bad and hurtful stuff at bay…you keep the good stuff away too.

But in doing that…what are you missing out on? You are missing out on the chance that someone will truly love and care for you. A chance to build a life together and have a love deeper than you could have ever hoped for.

If you take that risk…does that mean everything will be sweetness and light…and you won’t be hurt again. Not a chance. Of course you will…but isn’t that kind of what life is like? Now hopefully you are more discerning and making better and wiser choices along the way. But you can be sure…you’ll get hurt again.

That’s why…it’s good to be practiced up on that forgiveness thing. You’ll have many opportunities to put it to good use.

Part of being able to forgive is being able to trust God. Trust that he has something better for you. Trust that he is able to use even the bad things in life and bring good out of it. Maybe even trust him that he has a good, needed and valuable lesson in it for you.

Goodness only knows that this forgiveness thing…is part of life’s adventures. The more you do it…the better you get at it. And each time…it gets a wee bit easier to promptly forgive an offense. It holds true that when we grasp how much God has forgiven us…that we find grace to forgive others. We have no better model of forgiveness than Jesus.

Will you choose to follow his example? Will you choose to receive the healing that can comes from God alone? Will you choose to live in the present and look forward to the future and what God will do in your life? Will you choose to trust God? Choose to trust that God is just and will bring about justice however and whenever he deems best? Will you daily recognize that God has forgiven you? Will you challenge yourself to daily follow his example? When stretched to your limit…will you turn to God and ask him to give you the grace you need to forgive? To fill you with his mercy…so you can in turn demonstrate it towards another?

Will you choose to take a risk today, and tomorrow and the day after that? Risk being hurt…and having to forgive again? Great will be your reward when you walk in grace and mercy…both here on earth and in heaven to come.

Dear Lord…enable me to walk humbly in your grace and mercy…and demonstrate it toward others daily.

Below are notes taken from Bob Kraning’s message on March 19th as he continued in the study of the Beatitudes.

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9

From the Message Translation…Matthew 5:9 “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.

Amplified translation…Matthew 5:9 Blessed (enjoying [a]enviable happiness, [b]spiritually prosperous–[c]with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and [d]maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!

New Living Translation…Matthew 5:9 God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.

The Bible begins with peace in the garden…and ends with peace in eternity. Jesus on the cross bought and made peace with sinful man and God.

“Peace is when everyone stops to reload” – Author Unknown. In every age of history, the greatest heroes have been warriors.

When self is first…peace is last. God calls his people to be peacemakers. Unresolved conflict blocks peace and relationship with God. Peace is God’s call to us. He expects us to bring peace to our world.

1) Meaning of peace…is more than the absence of conflict. Presence of righteousness. Righteousness without prejudice, aggressiveness…but pursues peace.

The most people can offer is a truce…which only ends up buying cold war. Instead we need to bring people together in mental peace, love and harmony. Righteousness, holiness, purity, love and harmony. These attributes should make up a Christian.

James 3:17 “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

Purity of motive. Can’t be at peace without resolving a wrong attitude. Righteousness and peace and caring for others. Lack of harmony with God will mean lack of harmony with each other.

2) We are to be the messengers of peace. How do we do that?

Jesus Christ is God’s divine and eternal peace child. God gave him so you can be at peace with God in heaven.

Messenger of Peace

P = Plan a peace conference…resolve conflict…if only for the sake of the kingdom.
E = Empathize with their feelings. Look out for one another’s interest.
A = Attack the problem and not the person.
C = Cooperate as much as possible.
E = Emphasize reconciliation…not total resolution.

Fixing the blame won’t fix the problem. It’s beautiful thing to fix the problem.

Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Peace always has a price. Must let go of ego, selfishness and pride. Words like “I’m sorry”, “I’m wrong”, and “You were right”…are part of our regular vocabulary.

Unlike the stupid movie line…love is all about saying I’m sorry.

Reconciliation focuses on the relationship. Resolution focuses on the problem. “If you can’t solve the problem, save the relationships.” That’s what’s valuable and what it’s all about.

Colossians 1:19 “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him”
Making peace though his blood she on the cross. Jesus modeled what God would have us to do.

3) Merits of Peace

The greatest human heritage can not match our inheritance with God. We are joint heirs in the Kingdom of God. Peacemaking is the hallmark of God’s children.

Are you critical or thankful? You will know as you get older. Are you divisive, critical or critical? Take a personal inventory.

God asks us to be peacemakers. Shall we be called the sons and daughters of God.

God cares for us. So much so that his word tells us that he put the tears of his children in a bottle. He remember our problems because his love for us.

John 15:15 – “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”

God tells us he is changing us. There is never an accident in the family of God.

We need to make a difference…and bring forth fruit. How do I find the missing peace? Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart.

Like a referee in a soccer game. The may be conflict and dispute. But when he holds up the yellow sign…it calms things down real quick. Why? Because they team knows that the next sign is a red sign. At that point, not only does the game end…but so does the tournament.

So let conflict act as your yellow sign. When you see it…calm down…resolve the conflict and make peace.

Peace with God
Have the peace of God
Peace with other people

Harry Reasoner…comments:
“I’m not a happy man.” When asked why not he went on to expound that he was not happy because he had not found what he was looking for. Peace. Peace with myself, the world, people and God.

John 16:33 – “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

In the world you will have trouble. But Jesus has overcome the world. In him you will have peace. To get thing right in our life with God…we need to also have things right with people. Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart.