Below is the definition of Love.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor%2013:1-13:13;&version=31;

In a time I've been thinking about the four facets of love- emotion, actions, forgiveness, and rejection of pride, I got to review one of the passages where Jesus demonstrates His love for us. At a sad moment in His life He is there for the people. We do things that grieve God, and He lets us because he wants us to realize our shortcomings and seek His ways.


Matthew 14 Herod believed in resurrection, he thought John the Baptist had come back from the dead. Although fear kept him from having John killed, a moment of lust or severe emotion caused him to swear an oath which he then honored and had John killed. Jesus heard about John and went to a
secluded place.
Jesus and John were related, His mother and John's mother were relatives. It is
possible they played together as children. Even though Jesus knew John would die and how, the news
that it actually happened was probably very distressing. He went to a secluded place to pray. The very
nature of man caused John to be killed, and yet people (the nature of man) followed Him looking for
healing from sickness.
In the midst of great sorrow He felt compassion, He then fed them as knowing
they were hungry and food was not readily available. He met the needs they brought to Him and met
the needs they hadn't even considered. What an awesome God.
After ministering to these needs He went to be alone with His Father. Meanwhile His disciples were crossing the sea in the middle of the night in a storm, as fear gripped them He went to them. Being a man the sea provided a barrier to the disciples understanding. They might have thought that if Jesus was there they would be safe, and probably regarded leaving Him on a distant shore as a surety that they were on their own. God came to them, when they needed Him.
So in three acts Jesus after being reminded of our nature through John's death met the needs the
people brought to Him, met the needs they hadn't thought of (fed them), and went to His disciples when
they felt alone, isolated from God and helpless. When they realized who He was they worshiped Him.

I finished the first pass of my trail the other day. What an accomplishment. Now for some fine tuning. No pics of the bottom yet.

Well the traveling season has started, I pray for the safety of all. Below I talk about marriage, and I must confess I do not have all the answers. In 20 years or so of being married I have been selfish in some ways and not put my wife in her proper place. In thinking about it however and reflecting I do believe that what I wrote below is true (I'd like to think God inspired it- but then pride comes knocking), and furthermore I am confident that the principle outlined can be applied to all marriages. Existing ones included, and can give those considering it a benchmark as to how to be. I believe God's word supports what I have said.

2 Cor 10 God's plan for marriage. It doesn't fit here necessarily but its been on my mind lately. Imagine this- two people who have the other's best interests and comfort put ahead of their own. Simple isn't it? Now we as humans come along and make a mess of it. We expect certain things in marriage, or we may feel something is missing. Notice how in the last two statements the emphasis is more personal and not "other" focused. If we have expectations that aren't being met for the other person - why aren't we meeting them? If we feel the other person is "missing" something then why don't we provide it? We become way to "me" focused. The other thing I've noticed is that we get to focused on this life. Cling is a wonderful descriptive word describing it.

Lets face it we're all selfish, or can be. We usually have to make a conscious choice not to be. I think that is why God is the way He is. He wants us to choose His way deliberately and consciously. He will marvelously make sure that all injustice is in some way righted, so He doesn't "have" to act "now" in most things, but He can watch and see if we choose Him. So if you are mad at God for injustices in the world or in your own life then do you have a reason? Of course you do, nobody is ever angry without reason, but now the more important question- IS it a valid reason? Are the injustices you are angry about really a result of somebody's selfish choices? Maybe even your own? Is being mad at God valid anyway?

I wonder what this chapter holds. Wow - Paul is defending his ministry. The quote I underlined is in verse 12 - When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves they are not wise. We should not boast because we do have flaws. If we recognize we are flawed then what we think should happen may and probably is in all likelihood flawed as well. Would you agree? We shouldn't compare ourselves with others, and we shouldn't even compare ourselves with our own past actions. Its too easy to then think we have "arrived" or become something other than the flawed people we are. When we do boast -being humbled is not far away. Or we can be stubborn, and refuse to acknowledge being humbled.

Something I omitted in yesterday's post, actually it didn't come to mind until last night. In our relationships with people in loving them we don't know how it will turn out. We don't know if they will love us back. Even if they seem to return it they may not be fully committed. I think knowing would change our outlook on people, maybe to the point of being detrimental. We usually pass judgments, and act on them - this person will never change, but we have to admit they could.

With God He loves us and He knows whether or not we will ever love Him back. Even those that won't ultimately He loves. A lot like a parent who never gives up on a child although His relationship with us is even deeper than that. Parents always have hope. In the scripture below God knew how Judas would ultimately respond, and yet He did not with hold His love, and treated him just like the others.

Matthew 10 The thing that strikes me about Matthew 10 is the fact that Jesus summoned His 12 disciples which included Judas, and gave them authority to cast out unclean spirits and heal every kind of disease and sickness. Most people will tell you that somehow Judas didn't get this authority or that he didn't do what Jesus instructed him to. He was given authority and sent out though to preach and heal. He also warns His disciples that they cannot know men's hearts furthermore when believer's family (parents or kids) turn them in for their belief they are to ENDURE. Endure to the end- Christian walk will not be strife less or without difficulty. There will be family strife in being a Christian, it doesn't say husband- wife specifically, and main examples are woman versus woman or man man conflict within families that can transcend generations (ex. father and son). Your family won't understand your commitment or having known you their entire lives won't believe it is genuine. Beyond that we tend to have closer relationships with similar gendered family members, we know how they think, etc. So that strife will most likely come primarily from that area. They know the choices you face and how you think, so their skepticism can be greater.

Verse 10:27 is why I'm writing this. What God tells us in secret (which could be our thoughts and meditation) we are to proclaim or share with others.

Why does God love us? How do we love others? This came to me today, and I have thought about it a great deal. We certainly aren't deserving from the aspect of our actions. Most of us slip into a self serving state, we envy other's or their relationships or their possessions. We boast at our accomplishments and our knowledge, and take pride in them. We are often easily angered, all we have to do is have someone repeat something that we find offensive and the angers swells up within us until the pressure finds an escape. We keep records -you did this.... We do evil things, we gossip, we set traps, we try and manipulate people to do what we want. We give up on people, and relationships, passing a judgment that they will not or cannot change, we normally don't trust people- we eye them with a "healthy dose of skepticism", we don't usually protect people from their own actions but rather let them hang themselves.

These are all the opposite of love, and yet God loves us. My conclusion may be in error but I think He loves us for the unique people we are. Not for what we do, or have done, or didn't do. Not for any personal action. Nor does He love us because of the way we treat His other loved ones. So its not our actions toward others, or lack of that is the reason God loves us.

I think the reason is contained in the hopes He has for us, and even if we don't realize that hope or move that direction in life still He has that hope.

We like God have to love our brothers and sisters on this planet the way He loves us. Because they happen to interact and be a part of our lives. We need to embrace all the relationships in our lives. Too often we like to pick and choose. Come to a deeper understanding how to live and realize youthful mistakes were made. It doesn't matter, we have to take all those relationships where they are at hope positive things for the future. Focusing on the past, what may have been missed, etc is not love but rather it opens the door for selfishness. On the other hand we can't be blind to current actions, and not be true to our feelings about them. Overlooking (although I don't really think that is possible- to overlook you must see) sets us up to feed the selfish nature in other's. We may feel like victims sometimes, but we probably contribute.

I was also reminded today to be careful about the hopes for the future. We easily get caught up in them, and then if they aren't realized bitterness and regret come knocking.

We have to look at others as the unique people they are. Love them for now and who they are, not past actions, nor what you expect in the future. See them as the unique one of a kind treasure they are.

There is no scripture review, although I read 1 Cor 13 and Romans 12 before writing this, they definitely fit. Also I heard radio shows on Romans 12. My review of 1 Cor 13 which I have done but not posted, left me feeling like I had not done it justice. That chapter is so deep and powerful that doing it justice is difficult. Its my prayer to love people the way it says to.

The picture is from my trail. We are all on a journey of sorts, and the path isn't always paved or smooth, but there is a path. Its neat to reflect back on the path we have come down, and maybe get a vision of what is ahead.

Oh Lord Your insights lately have been wonderful. It was good to re-read this and I actually realized something I had wanted to know had been answered completely- sharing. I added the part below about opening up to others is a step of faith- that is my next prayer. I am happy plastic, the lyrics fit me, my real struggles I am afraid to share. Afraid of human condemnation, rejection, not willing to take the step of faith Jesus requires for my healing- rather we should focus on what God wants. Imagine the dialogs if we were to focus on what God wanted. I'm trying to get there, but don't think I have the answers, or am perfect, far from it- I just hide things well.

I was also reminded of the struggle we face today as humans between our emotions and our logic. Most people are far more affected by emotions than they want to admit, and our emotions often lead us into illogical irrational behavior. Those feelings and emotions are there for us to enjoy and explore, but not let them dictate our lives. Its a balance we must strike, and one that we will learn more of as we live.

Mark 5 Mark 5 is another perspective on the man possessed by a mob or legion of demons. Mark tells us the possessed man was unable to to be bound (no one), and "no one" could subdue him. Now the demons instantly recognized Jesus and bowed before Him. He cast out the demons, they went into some pigs and the pigs went into water and drowned. The people of the town asked Jesus to leave, again they weren't too concerned that the man no one could bind or subdue had been healed, but rather seemed to worry about their lost income, or were possibly afraid. Jesus left based on their wishes but He left Himself a witness.
The woman with the medical condition is then told- she exhausted all her resources and had visited doctors exhausting human wisdom. She thinks (internally) that Jesus can heal her if she only touches His garment. This happens but Jesus makes her confess to the crowd that she was healed. I don't think God working in our lives is intended just for us but rather to share.
This is then questioned because as Jesus raises the synagogue official's daughter -He tells them to tell no one what happened.
The lady healed of the hemorrhage had a miracle performed on her, the man with the demons cast out had that happen to him. Jesus told the man to tell his community "what God has done for you". He made the lady confess the reason she touched Him publicly. He then tells those that witness a resurrection to "tell no one".
When we tell others what God has done in our lives our confidence is much stronger than telling others what we have seen in other's lives. Jesus seems to want us to share our personal experiences of His working in our lives. He works in your life everyday, can you see it? If you can't are you looking for it? I've been amazed by some of the unexpected little things that I see in my life. The thing I dreaded this morning -suddenly not happening. It can work the other way- the wonderful day you had planned turning into a trial. Its God working with us, growing us.
I also question the practice of confiding in others, and that has been my prayer of late. On the one hand confiding in others makes us accountable and in some ways allows us in our own strength to change habits. But people can't know our heart and as we fail or continue to fail in some things they may give up or question our commitment. If we on the other hand confide in God then He can work for not just a change in habits but true repentance or changing directions. But like the woman healed of hemorrhage we should give Him the glory for His work in our lives. If others don't know our struggles then will the victory He gives or deliverance - how do we share that? This is one reason I'm writing this- God is showing me things and teaching me at a level that I cannot keep up with in terms of giving Him praise. A song I recently heard was about keeping up an appearance of Godliness. The song said that the church is full of happy plastic people, hiding their true selves behind walls. Those lyrics are true from what I have observed, there are few serious issues or struggles by Christians that are openly known by others in the church. That knowledge comes out much like in the world- through whispers and gossip. Yet when we show our weaknesses to others then God will use that weakness and make us strong. Talk about taking a risk though, but instead of considering it a risk, maybe it is an exercise in faith. The problems people made public before Jesus He healed. ALL of them. Those problems of a person that others knew about and brought to Him He resolved. Its faith. Its also a fearful consideration.
Another issue is how do you share with people your pressing issues (if it involves others)? A real risk is encountered of doing or saying something that could be a detriment to another's walk. Additionally those involved may not want you to share with the people you think you should. Its a very involved and intricate question. Those who think it isn't an issue haven't considered it very deeply or have a prideful stance of thinking they can judge character well. Only GOD knows a man's heart. I would encourage people to stay self focused, there should be enough problems there to keep us in prayer and seeking Him for a while. Additionally I would be willing to suggest that as we address our personal problems, the ones we share with others will go away.

I loved reviewing this, it is so true, and it ties into reading second Corinthians. I attended the church Christmas program tonight, watching all the young people singing. It also had a puppet show and some readings. May God bless all the children, and all people everywhere. Some of the kids yawned, some frowned at times, some smiled and bounced. They have such hope, that sometimes we adults lose, and they blessed me greatly.

Mark 4 Mark 4 covers some of the stories that I've already commented on from other parts of other Gospels. However there are some things to add, perspectives gained from reading the Mark version. The parable of the sower is repeated. I think it is interesting that the farmer sowing seeds sows them everywhere. Usually farmers as we know them are very careful about waste and sow only in the areas where the crops have the best chance to grow. In this parable the seed (or Word of God) is sown everywhere, and It should be.
The cares of the world are appropriately called "thorns". They certainly seem to stick to us and distract us from the focus we're supposed to have in this life. Pulling thorns is also something I hesitate to do - I'm talking about weeding a garden. The non-thorned weeds are easy to pull, but the thorny ones are often thought about very carefully.
There is another reference to "measures" in this chapter. Take care what we listen to. By your measure it will be measured to you. This is I think the third reference I've found to make us reflect on how we measure things, because God will use our measures to bless us.
Another story is that the sowed seeds grow on their own. Going back to the parable of the sower, if we sow the seeds (everywhere) God will grow them.
And that is followed by the parable of the mustard seed. A little bitty seed (or God's Word sown) can become significant, and dwarf the other plants or concerns. This connotes to me that we don't have to beat others over the head with the Gospel, but we do need to sow a small seed (everywhere). Then we can watch God work in growing that seed and praise Him.

This picture was from trail work. Imagine this view with no sound, that is how it was Saturday, no wind rustled leaves, no birds, no hum of any kind.

I've taken a break from Bible reading lately and was feeling some self condemnation over it. The something marvelous happened when I started back that I really can't explain.

First the men's group at my church is seeking direction, and members. So that has been a issue of prayer lately. In my own personal reading I often looked for the clear role of fathers (or men). In reading 1 Thess 2:11 there was a glimpse "a father deals with his own children encouraging comforting and urging his kids on to Godly lives. In my reading I stopped just befor 1 Cor 14. In that chapter Paul is writing about the importance of prophesying. In 1 Cor 14:3 "everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their, encouragement, and comfort", this passage is almost a perfect fit. Then I thought of the families I know and the father figure. The words the dad speaks affect the family for generations, if he has a poor outlook about his children they will perform poorly, if he has a positive outlook then they will flourish. Those men who by their actions aren't involved with their families are sending a signal as well. it isn't very positive either. So then I wondered what I had said or spoke about my family versus what I want for them. God wants only good things for us, and when bad things happen its definitely a result of a problem with men and not God. He is easy to be angry with, but its futile.

Now everyone thinks I'm sexist. Well before God there are neither male nor female (Gal 3:28). Often times our pride pokes fun at the characteristics and opinions of the opposite sex, but God made woman for man and man is born of woman. Clearly we need each other, on a very deep level. We need that point of view that the other sex has, we are missing it (if we are honest enough to admit it). What do groups of only women talk about? What about groups of only men? is it edifying, uplifting, something your are not afraid to share? With you spouse, kids or mother and father? I think in mixed groups the topics tend to be a little more uplifting, wholesome, or some other positive adjective, as they should be.

We create tomorrow by the decisions we make today, just like our today was created by decisions made previously. So take the advice you always hear, if you can't say anything good keep your mouth shut. It is so important, and not for today but literally poorly chosen words can affect your grandkids.

At the end of 1 Cor it talks about seed dying to create the next crop, this chapter has a reminder of the parable of the sower. Again another God tied happening. We also talked about the difficulty of keeping faith tonight at church. We would much rather worry and fret, it is important to acknowledge God and how He works in our lives. Like the women healed of hemorrhage. I'm sure there are no coincidences, and no not everything always goes the way I want.

Luke 8 This chapter repeats many of the stories I have covered from other gospels. the parable of the sower for example, and the casting out of legion. In reading this the first thing I notice is that the women He healed now follow Him and support His ministry. They are grateful, and in following Him they have publicly acknowledged Him as their Healer, and have dealt with the fear that seems to come with miracles.
For instance He casts out legion into the swine and they run down the hill into the water and are drowned. This miracle was witnessed and relayed to people who came to verify it. They saw a man that had been clearly demon possessed sitting clothed and in his right mind. Instead of being grateful they became fearful and acting on their fear they ask Jesus to leave, so He does. He does leave the healed man as a witness to the town though, and the healed man proclaimed what Jesus had done for Him.
Once back across the sea a synagogue official came to Jesus on behalf of His daughter. He recognized what Jesus could do although I have to wonder if he came in an official nature or probably just as a desperate dad. Jesus started on His way and eventually raised the official's daughter from death. The inquiry was public, and acknowledgment of God's power and authority.
A strange thing happens on the way, a woman suffering for 12 years knows in her mind that Jesus power could heal her. She didn't have friends helping her so she may not have told anyone, but had the faith within herself to believe. She works her way through the crowd and receives her healing. Jesus then stops and asks "who touched Me" and eventually the woman confesses before Jesus and the crowd. Is there a miracle recorded in the Bible that affected just one person and that nobody else knew about? I can't think of one and this miracle is no different. Jesus wanted the woman to publicly acknowledge her healing, He sent the man possessed by legion back to those who knew him before his healing. We should acknowledge what God has done for us. The big miracles and the small ones for God does not reserve the knowledge of miracles to just those people affected by them. We want miracles but don't want to share them, we may feel we are opening ourselves up for scorn. It also limits the glory God gets for His actions.

In class today we talked about pictures, the ones in your mind that you form in thinking about how a day, or a relationship, or a trip to the next town may go. We come up with these based on our experiences or hopes, and we can dwell on them. If we have a vision of something good and reality doesn't match the vision we tend to get depressed, or angry, certainly disappointed. If our picture of vision for our day is negative then most likely it will be. I think there is a lot of truth to this and it matches Bible teaching. Speak good things, think on good things, be realistic. The article says we need to learn to let go of these visions at times- the ones we go over and over building negativity, or the ones that don't quite match reality. We need to embrace the reality and change our vision looking for the positive rather than the negative. All of this is very true. I had the students brainstorm of possible positive things that could happen to them today (I didn't say it but the positive things for them shouldn't involve negative things for other people), and we had some marvelous good thoughts. Good food, smiles from children, somebody holding a door, success on tests. I also asked if they had perfect relationships with others, and to develop a picture of some positives for that relationship (that they control). They readily agreed that focusing on negatives would lead to more relationship deteriorating.

Our next chapter is communications, and in reading ahead one of the statements is that communication is so complex, its a wonder we can. Theres the words, the tone, the posture, talking to a wide variety of listening practices. I believe in communication, and positive change in my life is a result of the visions I have for what I want and the way I communicate them. Interesting next chapter.

The Bible reading unfortunately is still very true even though it was written months ago. I'm still a response three. I do have a vision of what four looks like, unfortunately I also have visions (that I need to let go of) of the potential heartache and heartbreak in going there. it has manifested itself into fear and to some extent paralysis.


Matthew 13 Another chapter rich in teaching, my what sinners we are. Parable of the sower, this seems to indicate there are four Gospel responses. Not understanding or comprehending at all, God open the eyes of those people. Then there are those that hear the Word, receive it, but evidently not understand it because they fade when persecution comes. These are the people who believe the Christian walk is supposed to make life a walk in the park. Prosperity Gospel. The third response is hearing but getting caught up in the cares of the world, keeping the Christian walk separate from the rest of their lives. Go to church listen but do not apply it. These people aren't fruitful they may realize that the Christian walk involves trials, but its all about them. Understanding the Gospel is something the third response does not do. The fourth response are those that understand the Gospel and apply it to life (all parts). These people become the leaven for the world, or the salt. This response is uniquely based on understanding.
I personally feel I'm in the third response, but hoping for the fourth. The "cares of this world" the bondage of debt I have allowed myself to get into. I so want to get out, but don't know how in light of worldly obligations. Its has been one of my more or less constant struggle and prayer. I believe the answer God has shown me involves getting those people around me to embrace the fourth response. Family in particular so my prayer is to get OUR priorities right, because I'm learning and growing still myself. I resolve to follow God's teaching, but then a trial comes and I fail giving the world response instead of the Godly one. According to The Word I don't fully understand.
I see where I want to be but don't know how to get there, maybe I'm too lazy. I hate conflict or maybe its fear.
Continuing in the chapter the wheat and the tares story. Interestingly cleaning up the world is an option but Jesus rules it out, letting the wheat and tares grow together. He does this to prevent any wheat from being uprooted. Wheat being followers of Christ, Tares being those who don't follow Christ. The thought there was how can removing evil from the world uproot good? I think from a practical standpoint removing evil may mean our lives would be affected on a very intimate level. We hope the best for our family members, but we do not know their hearts. There may also be some people who appear Godly but really are not and watching those people get removed may be too much for some Christians to take. After all the wheat and tares are actively growing.
Jesus then describes the kingdom of heaven - a little seed like a mustard seed becomes the biggest plant. A few faithful workers can make a tremendous difference. Or Christians are like leaven, a little causes the whole loaf to rise.
At the end of the age, those who attempt to hinder God, knowingly or unknowingly will be cast into outer darkness where they will realize and regret their bad choices.
The kingdom of heaven is like treasure in a field sell ALL so that you can purchase the field. Or sell ALL to buy the precious pearl.
At the end of the chapter people are amazed at Jesus teaching (He's in His hometown), but they start looking at Him through the flesh and close their eyes to the Spirit that is guiding Him and therefore do not believe. Their unbelief caused Him not to do many miracles. He could have, but did not due to their unbelief. Is a sign of unbelief that few miracles happen? Have you seen any lately?

A short update today, its been busy, I've seen the effects of how lives not lived for Christ hurt not only the person not living it, but those around them. I see that more and more, and I also see the solution rejected because it means change, so how appropriate is Matthew ch 11.

Tomorrow is my birthday, I think I'll limit my driving, or maybe pursue my idea to preheat water going into the water heater. I don't know whether to work on the trail, or maybe just hike it once. I hope everybody has a blessed day tomorrow.


Matthew 11 In Chapter 11 Jesus says nobody born of woman has been greater than John the Baptist. So in terms of human birth John the Baptist was a significant figure in History. However even that fact pales in comparison to those born by the spirit into the kingdom of God. Then Jesus talks about how fickle people are, they criticized John for his behavior, manners, eating habits, etc, and they also criticized Jesus for His mannerisms. People are curious about the kingdom of God but quick to dismiss it. Probably because it doesn't fit with their human plans. It means change at a personal level and admission that we as people are not perfect or even close.
Not long ago I was reminded of the saying about "being too heavenly minded to be any earthly good". Those that don't say that specifically act it out and refer to Christians as "religious", or somehow want us to separate our lives for Christ from our lives for this world. This is what Jesus is addressing in Matthew 11. In the past I have made the "distinction" between duty to Christ and duty in the world, but as I age I see that making that distinction is usually used as my excuse to not be the way I should be in ALL things.
Then at the end is the call for the weary and heavy laden, take His yoke for it is easy and His burden is light.

It has been a while since my last update, I have been looking forward to the change of pace brought about by Thanksgiving. I also needed a break from school so I'm enjoying it. I'm not as prepared for the last three weeks as I would like to be, but I have gotten some of the extras off my plate.

I'm considering posting a link to my new testament thoughts, it will be a .pdf file and very long. I can do this to get my thoughts out to the public, although I would be kidding myself to think I am widely read. Then in the blog I would concentrate on certain issues that come up in life. Most recently with the political season healthcare has been on my mind with the offshoots of abortion and socialized medicine. I'm still thinking about it though. Posting it all at once will not make me as likely to review it after some months and tweak, I think that is a definite positive.

One interesting thing happened recently, I vocalized some positive and specific things I wanted to happen, and I vocalized some things that should happen that maybe I didn't have the best attitude about. It was amazing the insights that I got and how things subsequently happened. I need to keep doing that. I also struggled in the areas where my attitude wasn't as it should be, there was definitely temptation.

I post two chapters tonight Luke 7 after reviewing it and 2 Cor 5. I think 2 Cor 5 is especially good, the thoughts came to me as I was writing and I look forward to reviewing it in the future.

The picture is a view from my trail, the shadow is a cliff called the NC wall (I would say its a shear cliff over 100' (30 m) tall- maybe twice that). Rock climbers like it, although I haven't seen any on it. I'm getting closer to the bottom of my trail, but a great deal of work remains.


Luke 7 A couple of interesting thoughts come out of Luke 7. First is the centurion's slave. We don't know much about this servant other than he was well liked by his master (so he must have been a good slave), and he was near death. So here is a good person in bondage near death and hopefully relief from suffering in this world and Jesus heals him (meaning more servitude) for the sake of another good man. The slave's lengthened life of servitude was a blessing to his master. So we should consider that our suffering and servitude could be a blessing to others.
Next story is parallel. The widow's son (Nain) who had died, and possibly gone to his reward (although we don't know) being called back from death as a blessing to his mother. We are definitely not our own, we are His and sometimes our continuing inconvenience or bondage is used to bless others.
Now the Pharisee story at the end of the chapter. Jesus was invited and went to the home of Simon the Pharisee. Simon did not offer to wash Jesus' feet, kiss Him for a greeting, or annoint His head with oil. That may have taken some sacrifice on Simon's part, that he evidently was not willing to make. The woman on the other hand a known sinner was at Simon's house. How did she know where it was? How did she get in? Did Simon know of her reputation through rumor, or experience? The woman made those sacrifices to make Jesus feel welcomed, comfortable, etc. She did it out of her gratefulness. Are we grateful enough to God to make personal sacrifices to serve others at the expense of our own comfort? To tie it to the last chapter are we additionally willing to make those sacrifices for others who seemingly don't care about them? That is how Jesus wants to live through us.

1 Cor 5 This chapter talks about open and acknowledged sin in the church that is being accepted. A man is sleeping with his father's wife and the church is being accepting of it. On one hand we are all sinners and have transgressed God's law to the same degree as this man, on the other hand we have to be careful what we acknowledge and accept from others. If we accept open sin then in a sense we are condoning it, and even though we should want all people in fellowship with Christ, there are times when we should avoid fellowship with people. Paul gives us a list and a test as to who we can fellowship with. Anyone that calls himself a brother who is sexually immoral, greedy, an idolater, a slanderer, a drunkard, or a swindler don't fellowship or even eat with that person. I think the establishment of the sin is important namely two or three witnesses -it in the old testament, and also the person proclaiming his knowledge of God. When I read that list certain ones are harder to read than others, to divulge which ones I find easy or feel like I don't have an issue with is an opportunity to express pride so I decline. I do feel like a lot of people find it easy to slander people (myself included). Maybe think their decisions aren't very smart and share that with others - that is very close to slander, so brother Christian we won't be having fellowship with you. We need to be sincere and truthful and yes its easy to be sincere (of your own opinion) and truthful (in how you see things) but slander other people all the same.

Paul's solution to lack of fellowship deserves some thought- hand the man over to satan so that the sinful nature may be destroyed, but the spirit saved. If we don't fellowship with someone they will look for fellowship elsewhere (maybe even a more accepting church or congregation, there are those bodies of people out there who like the Corinthians may be accepting of certain sinful behaviors). Anyway the person will contnue to sin eventually seeing its futility and unsatisfying results, then will want to come back (truly repent and turn from their way). At that point fellowship needs to be restored even if it is years away. It would also be wrong to hold a grudge or to ask people "do you know what this person did for years?" hoping to get to tell the story. Churches I have seen have a long way to go.

Paul says we are to judge within the church, and act. Same sin outside the church by a non-believer we are not to judge. We must show all people the love of Christ both the believer and non believer. We show the openly sinning believer the love of Christ by letting them choose the sin or Christian fellowship, too often we as humans tend to write these people off, but we should pray and hold onto hope. We show the non-believer the love of Christ by introducing him to Christian fellowship. With the goal of a saving knowledge of Christ coming into his heart. Once he knows Christ he may turn from his sins, he may not, he may consider church a social club, in which case we need to carefully and continually keep showing him the love of Christ possibly by ending fellowship.

I think next year I'm going to try and read the Bible out loud. I think of all the things I have said that I shouldn't have, I think its important to vocalize His Words.

Today in reviewing this before I post it I was struck by how similar it is to what I have written recently. I can see God bringing me back to the same points in my life over and over again. I also think its neat that my students told me a couple weeks ago that sometimes they need to see concepts repeatedly to learn them, and here I am living proof.

I have felt bold in sharing the Gospel lately, not so much in quoting scripture, but in pointing out the underlying principles that they speak of. Basically how it is just a good idea, and that it helps people, and it helps me. So I try and look for ways to discuss sound living practices (which are usually found in the Bible) without quoting scripture. It is my hope that God will use me to plant seeds then use His Word to revisit people's hearts. I can do that in the job I currently have- that may be why I'm here and he hasn't sent me somewhere else??

Matthew 7 Matthew seven parallels Luke 6, Jesus is talking about judging. In Matthew 7:2 He says by the measure we judge others we will be judged. Interestingly in Luke 6:38 He says we will receive by the same measure we give. Then the speck in the brother's eye versus the log in our own eye. He says this in my opinion to illustrate that before we judge or give we need to reflect internally and determine our measures. If we aren't generous in our giving can we expect to receive generously- what is our measure? Judging others - we all do it to some degree, but we need the inward reflection that we are not doing the exact same thing we are critical of (or judge others by). I have fallen into the trap of judging others based on the standards I feel I am judged by. Since I have learned to adapt to what I feel is someone else's standard, I tend to hold people to it or adopt that standard when looking at others. Then I feel justified in being critical of others without considering whether I'm being held to a realistic Godly standard. This really needs an example: what is a standard you feel judged by? For me one is my work dress code. I feel I comply but I also notice those people who may be more marginal in compliance. Then I tend to think less of a person that doesn't "comply" as well. What is the Godly standard? In this case probably wearing clothes, and some people sometimes have issues that may prevent them from complying as they would want to, and yet their heart is right before God. Going to church may be a standard, college, mowing the yard, the examples are everywhere.
Once He finishes the log and speck story Jesus says seek and you shall find, ask and it will given to you. Then He compares our Father God to us as fathers, which one of us wouldn't give good things to our children, or give them something they didn't ask for? If you consider the chapter to this point together we are all getting what we ask for, measured out in the same measure that we apply to others.
At the end of Matthew 7 is the same story from the end of Luke 6. We can hear God's Word every day, every week, we can realize Who God is. Demons know His Word. It is what we do with it, do we apply it to our daily lives and try to live to His standards- build on the firm foundation? Do we agree with it, acknowledge it, but live out our lives by our standards- build on shifting sand?
A couple days after writing this I came up with additions to it. Above I was talking about how sometimes we start judging others by the standards we feel others judge us by whether they are Godly or not. God's standard is to look on the heart.
Some people will never change - ever. We can take it as disrespect, laziness, any number of unpleasant adjectives (which God has told us not to do). We can see things and situations so clearly and wonder why others are seemingly so blind. We should look as God does on the heart of that person, not the actions or lack of. Would you agree with the following? Good hearted people often take the ones they love for granted. They volunteer their loved one's time and possessions without first asking- should they? Probably not, but the fact that they do doesn't mean they aren't good hearted. In fact it could mean that they are good hearted.
Good hearted people seek to satisfy needs without considering the consequences or the sacrifices they and others may have to make. Should they?- Probably not, but again it doesn't mean they are not good hearted.
For the real thought provoking idea consider this. We fail God daily, some people become so frustrated trying to do everything right that they walk away. He however never gives up on us. We're inclined to give people three strikes and if they don't conform to our standard we may choose not to have relationship with that person. Are you doing everything you think God requires in your relationship with Him, how many more strikes should He give you?

Well Galatians has given me some insight on frustration (my frustration) and the fact that things don't change at the speed I would like to see. Notice I'm talking about "I", which shows pride or self importance when it should be God. The insight is that getting frustrated with others is a sign of my attitude not being what it should be.

The beatitudes was a good review, and I'm glad I re-read it. We need to walk with God daily, and see ourselves overcoming for "now" which could be defined as a short period of time.

Well this isn't getting school work done, papers need grading, and some planning needs to happen. Getting caught up in that though can be detrimental. One has to be careful about priorities.

Matthew 6 Continuation of the beatitudes. This chapter talks broadly about being noticed by men, doing things to gain men's notice and that is your reward, but doing things secretly (and by secretly - such that only God knows about) God will reward you. It is possible to give to the poor without others being aware of it. "Don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing" 6:3. Pray to God in private, not openly or publicly, talk to Him as a Friend (because He certainly is or He wants to be). Don't be repetitious, don't try to impress God with your words or phrases (as if you could). Fasting? don't let anyone know. We're so conditioned to seek sympathy and attention this one is especially hard. If we food fast, our feelings of being run down and tired, lack of energy, then have some fuel in that we know we are not eating and others see it by our actions. Again it should be between you and God.
Treasures are another topic- where your treasure is, there is your heart. Want the newest gadget, the latest convenience? Some people accumulate wealth, others memories, the bottom line is are you holding onto this world or looking to the next one? God will do something new for you everyday, so holding onto yesterday's memories can become more of a priority in some people's lives than God.
Hand in hand with treasures is worry- will the finances hold out, why is there a question on that, just what are your treasures? If your paycheck doesn't cover everything then you are sacrificing yourself to the god of this world. Selling yourself into servitude for a clear television picture, some other convenience, some status among your neighbors. Who are you shorting?-God? How do you overcome it? Seems easy in theory but difficult to practice especially with a family. He answers that question- Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you (daily provisions) 6:33. As you seek the things of God the things of this world will lose the glimmer they may have, certainly the importance will dwindle. We also in doing that have a unique opportunity to practice faith. When the Israelites in the desert tried to collect extra manna it went bad. They had to trust that God would provide tomorrow's supply- tomorrow. He does that with our needs, but too often we want that assurance that we have it "covered", and we tend to then slip slowly and slightly toward becoming dependent on ourselves and not God. When we do depend on ourselves then worry creeps into our lives. We have to take things one day at a time, concentrate on today's troubles and ask God to show us what to do. We can't worry about a month from now, or a year, or that worry turns into fear. Our sin is very much like an addiction, our worldly lifestyle is too. Can we imagine fighting off the addiction for an hour which is easier than six months- almost something we could accomplish. Of course we need God's guidance and help in everything. We need to walk with Him in the now.
So a God focus and a day focus (or even the next hour) are the ways we seek His Kingdom and Righteousness. Oh help me Father to practice that- because I freely admit I by no means do that now. The stress of the world has made me realize and re-emphasized the importance of His teachings.

Another pic from my trail, this one should be called falcon point or peregrine point. You can usually see birds from here floating on the updrafts. Although sometimes you see more buzzards.

Acts 16 and Galatians 2 has really blessed me. I wrote my thoughts on them today. I also reviewed Matthew 5 and it blessed me as well. In Acts 16 a man asked Paul how to be saved- he never preached a message, he just let Christ shine through him, and the man realized his need for something more. Something more than just existence.

Galatians 2 was amazing in that I realized that our personal preferences and traditions sometimes become more important to us than serving or worshipping God. Maybe God expects our traditions to change over time to make us aware that that shouldn't happen.

It has been a terribly busy week, but an enlightening one. Alternative energy talks were followed up by a tour of a coal fired power plant. I think energy becoming more scarce can be a way God turns us back toward Him. And just like everything else we expect others to come up with solutions, we accuse people of greed instead of realizing that the end of cheap fossil fuel may be just around the corner. We need to act- make life more simple, efficient, plan more. Instead to this point it is all talk.

Matthew 5 The first chapter of the traditional beatitudes. The followers of Christ are the salt of the earth, He makes us salty. We followers of Christ are also called the light of the world, again its His light shining through us, and as we let Him shine through us it so glorifies Him.
Now some thoughts- calling bad names or making derogatory comments is the same as murder. In the old testament murder is a physical act, Jesus with the new covenant makes murder more of a mental as well as physical thing. Probably because people weren't killed but they were relegated to second class citizens, called dogs- like the Samaritans- people who God created in His image. So the definition needed clarification. Is there a group of people that you don't consider your equals?
He follows this up by saying that in order to be acceptable to God you can't have anything against a fellow human. It further demonstrates the importance to God that we not speak or treat others badly.
Jesus calls lust adultery. From his statement it is possible to be an adulterer and never touch another person. Its mental OR physical. Then He speaks of divorce. Again the practice that Moses allowed needed clarification. People were divorcing their wives over whims, to try and gain something in some way. He said only for infidelity otherwise you are an adulterer. Relationships between men and women in my opinion are not approached correctly in our society. Its all about looks, and then sex based, and all the media seems to promote that. What kids (and others) need is to develop lasting friendships first. Not competitions of some form but open frank lasting friendships. Then let marriages come out of best friends wanting to spend their lives together and have and raise children together. Sex is a wonderful gift from God but it should not be the primary basis for a marriage relationship. Neither should there be a child focus. Marriage should be two people helping each other on the journey through life- best lifelong friends.
Jesus includes a warning about vows. God takes vows seriously (I think this is right after marriage for a reason), He doesn't want us making them, but if we do we are obligated to fulfill them to our own detriment. That is serious, our making a vow before God means it is more important to Him for us to honor that vow than have fun or live a fulfilled life. In other words our well being in this life takes second place to honoring a vow we made before God.
Jesus then clarifies an eye for an eye. In the old testament God wanted mercy rather than sacrifice, He said it on several occasions. An eye for an eye was a physical deterrent to people committing crimes, and in one sense when we act to harm a person created in God's image we should be willing to accept a just punishment. We should be willing to make retribution if we have wronged others. I think the clarification says love your neighbors. God does not want to see anyone perish. If we don't demand the eye for an eye, or appropriate just retribution, then God is showing Himself through those actions. It becomes a witness showing His mercy. Appropriate retribution is just and we all realize it, but God's mercy to us (undeserving as we are) is shown through our loving our enemies. Furthermore it refocuses our attention from what is "fair" to us humans or as individuals and places the focus on God's greatness and mercy.

I have always liked this picture.

I realize I'm jumping around a bit, but what is below has really strongly been on my mind lately. I find myself saying things at work that I regret and do not promote the positive Godly values I believe in. Maybe God is letting me do it because I do seek the attention, or am self ambitious. Anyway its my prayer to somehow stop. If I could live by the Spirit always would I give God the credit, or somehow myself? He is showing His patience with me by allowing it? So I can grow?

Galatians 5 I should type the entire chapter, particularly verse 16 and following. ... So I say live by the spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. I find myself at times able and willing to live in the Spirit or by the Spirit. Then I'll walk along and come up upon a conversation, and someone will hit one of my emotional hot buttons and then I say things I should not. Furthermore I want to say these things. I also will say things that stir up trouble, and maybe act on the thoughts I have. Throw a fit of rage or anger, express my emotion. How do we express our strong emotions without falling into the sin trap?

We can easily identify the characteristics we do that we should not, and this chapter lists them. But we are emotional beings and how do we control them. As a man I'm supposed to be able to hide mine, and I do a very poor job of it especially at times. I get so frustrated with lack of progress on issues, double talk answers to questions, apathy, ignorance, that I create discord (one of the things listed in verse 20), I dissent. I realize my powerlessness in controlling it, and somehow I should let the Lord take it. Or nail it to the cross, but by what means do I make that connection?

If I can always walk by the Spirit I will always have the things of verse 23 and 24. Love, Joy, Peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. How do I always - short answer - keep my eyes on Jesus at all times. OK -how do I do that? Jesus shows perfect love by loving us even when we sometimes act like we don't love Him. We are going to realize an unimaginable joy in His presence one day, And in every example of the rest of it God has shown more patience and perserverance that we will ever have to.

Our sinful nature has passions and desires, and we should not be conceited, provoking, or envious of each other. Our passion should be focused into the work of God and not into the work of self or what we want. I still haven't answered the question- how do we keep our eyes on Him all the time, so that I can walk by the Spirit all the time? I think if we feel like we ever have that answer then we will get conceited which shows we haven't gotten there yet. Paul says work salvation out with fear and trembling (Philipians 2:12). I frankly am afraid of myself, and what I might do and later regret. I do respect God, maybe not enough, because I do the things I hate. That fear of Him should be a deterrent. I feel utterly helpless (and sometimes depressed) about living the way He calls us to, but it is my desire to do so because I see the necessity and the reasons behind it. It is only God that can do it, because we are powerless in our own strength.

The photo is looking south from a wonderful viewpoint along my trail.

I wrote something on the folly of assigning blame or guilt, and I put it in the Acts 5 review. That truth really came to me tonight as an answer to some work situations, home situations, etc. In a nutshell- blaming won't solve a problem, it only causes more. A far better approach is to come to agreement that an unpleasant situation should be avoided and seek to help each other (of all that are involved) of what each can do to act to prevent or support those actions. This can be done without blame and be successful if all parties are willing to participate.

I added the comment at the end of Luke 6, this also came to me today- how aften we fall short of our goal and promises.


Luke 6 Luke gives an account of the man with a paralytic hand being healed. Jesus calls him forward before the group. So we have healing where friends brought the lame to Jesus, healing where Jesus went to the lame and now a healing where Jesus calls the man forth. One interesting thing that jumps out in Luke's account is after asking if it is "lawful" to do good on the sabbath Jesus looks at ALL the crowd - who do not answer.
Luke gives the account of choosing the disciples, Jesus prayed all night prior to naming them. How many decisions do we stay up praying about all night to make sure we do God's will? We usually feel we "don't have time" or we "need our sleep".
Luke then gives the Beatitudes - people who are afflicted either poor, hungry, sad, hated are blessed. They are blessed because those conditions tend to drive people to God and He is there for them to find. Meanwhile those people who are content tend to lose sight of God and not seek Him.
I have lived verse 30 -"whoever takes what is yours, do not demand it back" Upon reflection my attitude in that situation needed work and it still does. I also tend to latch onto wrongs of that nature - God deliver me from that.
Verse 31 is the Golden Rule, which is often twisted to justify retribution.
Then some hard teachings if you deeply consider them. Love your enemies, lend expecting nothing in return- consider what God does for ungrateful men. In a sense we do lend to our children and don't expect anything back. We should consider everyone our children and that might make it easier to obey that scripture. In addition we are told that by the measure which we give will be the measure that is given back to us. How do you measure your giving, is it time, money, prayer, service, and what is your measure in each of these areas? In which area do you not want to receive?
Then at the end Jesus asks why we call Him Lord but do not obey Him. He illustrates two different reactions of those who come to Him and hear His word. There are those that come to Him, hear His Words, and acts on those Words- That person has a firm foundation that will stand the storms
that we all will face. Our other option is coming to Him, hearing His Words and not acting in which case the storms of life will be very trying. We will experience heartache, sorrow, depression, we will feel unworthy because we will realize we haven't followed His Words. It will affect our walk we will feel unworthy and like we let Him down. The good news is that He loves us, accepts us , and can use those storm catastrophes to draw us to Him. We're all unworthy and we cannot lose sight of that. Has anyone ever promised you something and then not delivered? Has the same person done it repeatedly? And you let him/her? In singing the lyrics to some Christian songs tonight I vocally voiced "to You alone I will always worship", and while I believe that and want that in my life, I sometimes slip into worship of more worldy things. So I know I fail Him. Anyone watching us and hearing our music and our singing, and then seeing us later as we fail Him will certainly come to the conclusion we are a bunch of hypocrits. God isn't willing to give up on anyone though, so he gives us far more chances than we ever deserve, and to the unbeliever I don't really know what to say. We are hypocrits, but yet the Person we follow is not. We all have sinned, and it is our nature (some will even admit it), but the Person we follow had no sin. We recognize His life, attitudes, and characteristics as the goals of our own.

I worked on my trail today, I really love the solitude and the views. I also took a picture of myself for the "profile" but it will also show up in this listing.

I've been thinking lately about all my friends and hoping good things for them. I have some friends, family, and I myself am going through some things. Its funny what we go through and i think its very important to remain positive. Of course that is difficult for me, because I have gotten very proficient at negativity over the years. Oh well I need to keep speaking positive outcomes, for my friends, family and myself. Even if I can't see the positive or envision it.

God spoke the world into existence, and we should follow that lead and speak the things we want. Of course some things we want we will realize is not the best thing for us, usually after we get it.

Mark 3 Another Gospel take on healing the man with the bad hand, Jesus then chooses His twelve disciples. Once He arrives home crowds come to Him to such an extent He doesn't have time or a chance to eat. They are wanting Him to heal them. His family comes to see Him thinking He has lost His senses. Later in the chapter he tells the crowd that His family are those who do the will of the Father. In other words relationship with God is more important than the blood relationships of the family. Abraham had this understanding in his willingness to sacrifice his only son Isaac. We cling to our earthly parents and family, but we should cling to our relationship with God. It is important to try and certainly a desire to maintain the earthly family relationships, but God must come first.
Chapter three talks about blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The explanation the Pharisees offer for Jesus being able to consistently and completely cast out demons is that He is in league with the demons. Jesus instructs that kingdoms divided will fall. Then we hear the blasphemy talk. I take it that blasphemy of the Holy Spirit involves proclaiming that the Holy Spirit is an evil spirit. That is so counter to how I feel and how other people I know feel that it was hard to type. The Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity so it is essentially a rejection of God Himself.

I'm reading in James and reviewing in the Gospels. It is amazing how the points I just wrote on tie into the points I just reviewed. One of the things I wrote tonight and that will later show up in this blog (hopefully) is about catching a vision of what God wants for your family, your work, every aspect of your life. I may have just said it better than I did earlier. I added what actions can you do to bring God's plan about, what is He leading you to do? My work seems to be more chaotic and my reactions are definitely in some cases not Godly responses but oh well only one Person is perfect, and it isn't me. I hope to ponder and reflect and catch a glimpse of His vision.

I also want to make sure I post a pic. Its a picture off of the trail I have adopted. It was recently ravaged by fire, but is coming back. Winter is approaching and the view was quite serene. When I took this I was out alone in the forest- no dogs, no helpers, just me alone with my thoughts and feeling small compared to the vastness of the world.

John 5 Again another twist in reading it chronologically (at least someone's opinion by chapter). Now Jesus is at the pool of Bethesda. He finds a man sick for 38 yrs - 38 yrs is a long time. He asks if he wants to be made well and the man informs Him he has no friends to put him in the water when it stirs. This contrasts the four friends of the paralytic who dug through a roof to get healing for their friend. God sees everything. Jesus told him to get up and take his mat. Later Jesus sees the healed man and tells him to stop sinning or something worse than a 38 year sickness may happen to him. 38 years is roughly half of the expected lifespan of humans. Generally we don't like to be afflicted with anything unpleasant for more than 5 minutes, imagine half a lifetime then imagine that the consequences of sin may lead to a lifelong affliction. People become paralyzed, and lose limbs and although God can fix their physical defects He may choose not to. His grace is sufficient and He wants us to realize that as He told Paul.
I often wonder about the miracles Jesus performed. In chapter five we see our answers He was so totally in tune with the Father, He understood His Father's will, and did what He saw His Father doing. What is God doing in the world right now? I think we lose focus and slip into what God is doing (or can do) for us. We have to be in tune with Him and want His will (Thy will be done), and not expect any personal gains. Jesus later says He does nothing without asking His Father. He judges based on what God tells Him and according to God's will. His human interests are in subjection and are not an influence. Oh that we could be like that. Now that He knows His Father's will, and asks Him what He should do, the miracles come and the miracles then testify in Jesus case that He was sent by the Father. In our case any miracles God performs through us testify to Him as well. We look for honor, and to be used by God we have to realize it is Him and give Him the credit for it.
John 5:39 people search the scriptures, they are looking for the secret code of eternal life. But the Bible points to Jesus, He is real and He has recorded written wisdom and and practical applications for everyday life.
Men's approval isn't what Jesus sought, but rather His Father's approval. He wasn't looking for honor but rather to do His Father's will. One day men will honor someone who seemingly has all the answers but they won't be God's answers. We should seek the honor that comes from God alone, which means we have to be a vessel He can use. This means we need to forget about our wants and agendas and seek His will, and ask Him what we should do. God does not need anyone of us to do His will, He will accomplish what he has purposed with or without our help. He wants us to have fellowship with Him, but He doesn't need it to accomplish His purposes. We need to be in fellowship with God to have fulfilled lives, but we don't naturally want that.

Matthew 12 This chapter contains another version of the disciples in the grain field which I previously discussed. Here is another Sabbath discussion Jesus asks "Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath?" People particularly the Pharisees interpreted the Sabbath rest as a day to not do anything related to making income. In a sense it is, and furthermore through Jesus illustration of the sheep in a pit people accepted the fact of protecting their wealth or income potential as OK. He is pointing out that helping others is more important than protecting income or wealth, and there is no "day off" from helping our brothers in need. God would rather see us show daily compassion to others rather than a sacrifice (which is usually interpreted as loss of income) to Him. In helping and serving others we are worshiping and sacrificing to Him.
The other point of this chapter is that God clearly states that a person cannot be "on the fence" in regard to accepting Him. "He who is not with Me is against Me; he who doesn't gather with Me scatters." I think that can be applied to us on a moment by moment basis. We need to be cognizant of serving God in ALL things, and further realize that if we don't have God with us and involved in our plans - we are working against Him. Now again we can erroneously build ourselves up by thinking that God needs us, or feel like He depends on our efforts, but we are small- a vapor compared to God.
Lastly I like the tree illustration good trees produce good fruit, bad trees produce bad fruit and trees are known by the fruit they produce. What kind of fruit are you (a tree producing), Are you producing any? Jesus in a later chapter checks a fig tree to find it isn't producing any fruit. My guess is that no fruit is the same as bad fruit, because we can't ride the fence. God should show you things (fruit) that He is producing through your willingness to serve Him. If you don't see any I suggest you reflect on your service and pray and ask Him for guidance. He may be waiting to tell you some things, and lead you into a better way.

I meant to add a picture to my previous post. This was from my bike (motorcycle) ride Sunday. On Tuesday the view I think was better , less humidity , and no clouds- too bad no camera.

been a while

Its interesting the topic of the writings. First of all I read in acts about Paul seeing that a man crippled from birth had the faith to be healed and told the man to be healed, and he was. In reviewing below the healings of Jesus (at least some of them) it was an action that demonstrated the faith to be healed. When we get sick we fall into rituals like the Pharisees, and rely on the ritual for help rather than the Healer. I think that was Jesus entire point when He was critical of the Pharisees.

The second passage gives us some more detail of a healing and I actually like what I wrote almost a year ago. Its all about faith. In the last of the passage I talk about the sabbath, and it has been quite a while since I had a blog entry. My initial reaction is that work has become hectic, I need to give tests, I've been involved in meetings, and we have had some issues that have just plain made me mad. Policies where I work seem to appear from nowhere and are documented in the same place, and yet compliance is expected. In discussing it I'm expected to just accept it. Two things come to mind - parents often don't document their policies, and I feel I am the victim of disrespect. Another policy came up during the discussion and what is supposed to be acceptable in one case, is not acceptable in another case (more work is required). Oh well the most important thing in my life is trying to live for God, I know I fail. Interestingly enough a radio program reminded me today that Christians tend to divest from life or interaction on a personal level with unbelievers. They want their own world, Christain schools for their kids, only involved in church activities. That was interesting and very true. If God is the most important thing in my life then this blog and my readings should supercede other things. I've got to make reading and writing thoughts a priority, and hopefully sharing them as well. I also need to focus on a vision of what God wants for my work as opposed to how it actually is today, and how it falls short. I can then see the milestones necessary to get where it needs to be and pray accordingly. That is how the Lord has shown me to be positive rather than cynical and negative. I finally listened.


Matthew 9 Jesus is in His own city. Some friends of a paralytic bring this person to Jesus to be healed. He first tells him his sins are forgiven. Then He tells him to take up his bed and walk. Does this mean we have to be right with God before He will heal us? Later in the same chapter the woman suffering a hemorrhage for twelve years realizes she only needs to touch Jesus to be healed and she makes her way through the crowd and touches Him. Jesus feeling the power go out from Him stops and points out the woman. He tells her that her faith has healed her. I've often wondered why Jesus didn't let this healing stay in private, just let her be healed and for her to know God did it. Its part of we have to acknowledge Him, God gets the glory for His work in our lives and furthermore He is the reason we get every good and perfect gift. Between the two acts of healing He is at Matthews house and the Pharisees ask Him why He is with sinners. He re-states an old testament verse where God says He doesn't want a persons sacrifice but rather to have that person show mercy and compassion. This is precisely what the Pharisees had forgotten about, its very easy to fall into ritual and a ritual can seemingly be a sacrifice because it is planned, but showing compassion results in true sacrifice because compassion makes us alter our plans.

Mark 2 In Marks account we get a little more detail of the paralytic's healing. First four men had agreed that Jesus could help this person. If they didn't agree would they have acted by helping carry him to Jesus? Once they got near Jesus they were faced with an obstacle, instead of turning around they sought a solution. Digging a hole in someone's roof in front of a multitude of witnesses is another demonstration that they were convinced Jesus could heal this person. Another passage is Mark 2:17 where Jesus said He did not come to call the righteous but sinners. Part of beginning a relationship with Jesus is to admit we are sinners and we are full of sin. A righteous person may have convinced himself he is not a sinner and doesn't need Jesus. Ben Franklin said the Lord helps those who help themselves, but too much self sufficiency may lead to a denial of our true condition as humans. A person like that may not seek Him like they should. To feel we are righteous is to in a way deny our need for Jesus, and Jesus said He isn't going after those who are righteous, but rather those that come to the recognition that they need Him. The last scripture that really speaks to me in this reading of the new testament is the one about sabbath being made for man. I often feel incredibly burdened by responsibility and duty and its very important to take some time out to spend with God and focus on His majesty. We often lose perspective and get caught up in our hustle and bustle lives. The sabbath is about reflecting getting back to proper perspective. For me it means not doing some things, although some tasks I still do on Sunday would be considered work. The Pharisees made rigid rules and forgot the intent. The disciples walking with Jesus realized that God provided the grain they were eating, the soldiers with David also knew that God was providing for their needs. Oh what good it would do for all of us to walk with the Lord - and we should be.

I'm learning and re-learning so much lately about myself, about my faith, about my life. Its mainly re-learning I'm afraid. Its wonderful. I feel a boldness to carry it over to work, but I have some habits (bad ones) to overcome. I just wrote my review of Acts 2 which I like and decided to go back to this entry which hadn't been posted yet. Its neat how it fits into what I currently am thinking and feeling.

Matthew 8 This chapter has so much in it. First is the leper coming to Christ asking to be healed. He tells Jesus He can heal him if He wants too to which Jesus replied He did want to and was then healed. Jesus told him not to tell anyone but rather to show the priest as commanded by the law and offer the appropriate sacrifice. In one version of the Bible I'm reading it implies that Jesus instructed the man to live as commanded rather than by telling people that Jesus healed him. I wondered why but after some self reflection I have to admit I believe miracles I see more so than those I hear about. I think sales people are the primary reason. As I get older I believe less the words I hear versus the actions I see. Any time you talk to sales people you hear how great the product is, and how crappy what you have is and that you need to "buy now". We're inundated with commercials to that effect. So Jesus instruction to obey the law and live the faith versus proclaiming it is understandable. We don't want to sell Christ to people, He ran people out of the temple saying it was a place to worship rather than a market place. He wants us to live for Him and show others His grace working in us rather than us saying the right things.
In chapter eight is also a recording of people bringing others to Christ who were demon possessed and sick. He healed them all. The interesting thing about that is that others brought the sick and possessed to Jesus. Certainly people who feel God's call on their lives need to confess their sins and accept Christ, but some alter calls maybe should be bringing a need of someone else to the alter. Whether you bring the person or not the need is important. Care must be taken not to bring the one with a speck in their eye while the bringer has a beam, but praying for others has always helped me keep proper perspective and helped to fight off any depression that could creep in due to focusing on the things in my life that aren't going the way I think they should.
The third story I want to mention is the scribe telling Jesus "I'll follow You wherever You go" Jesus gives him a warning that Jesus doesn't have a place to lay his head. That struck me most recently that Jesus was pointing out to the scribe that he should count the costs of following Jesus, or maybe had not counted those costs but rather said what he thought the Teacher wanted to hear. The next one is the man wanting to go bury his father prior to following Christ. Why didn't he ask Christ to heal his father, or resurrect him? It strikes me as someone who wants to follow Christ but also has his/her own agenda of how following Christ should go and someone not willing to put Him first. I personally struggle with that also in some areas, and I certainly see people who seemingly live that way.
Lastly is Jesus visit to the country of the Gadarenes. That story has spoken to me every time I read it. Jesus goes to this country and heals two men that others have ostracized from their community. He wasn't invited or asked, He just appeared and helped people. People that others had given up on, and arranged their lives around avoiding. Which of our neighbors do we avoid because their plight is too great a task (seemingly) for us? Jesus heals these men and the demons that possessed them are cast into pigs which then drown. The herd of pigs represented wealth people weren't willing to lose, wealth to give members of their community freedom or a better life. So much so they asked Jesus to leave and He did. So seemingly helping people which should be widely accepted as a good thing, often won't be- you'll be seen as a troublemaker. At a recent globalization conference one of the facts stated a couple times was that 70% of the world is still at or below poverty. If you think about that driving down the interstate and enough SUVs pass you clearly exceeding the speed limit (which wastes resources in favor of supposed time savings) then I wonder if this nation is the Gadarenes. Actually I think most nations fit in that category.

Its been a while , and I'm jumping ahead. But I've learned so much.

Acts 1 This is a very interesting chapter, not so much for what happens but my current circumstances. Last week at Wednesday Bible study our practice is for a person to share, and then rotate (have another volunteer). We had spoken of fear and how we should face it, but when the time came for someone to volunteer nobody really wanted it (it seemed there was fear over it). I suggested we draw straws and let God choose, it was related to me about Matthias the person chosen by the disciples to replace Judas Iscariot. That person "was never heard from again in scripture". Now drawing straws is both old testament and new and some decisions can seemingly go either way and be Godly, so I believe the Father honors it.

For instance switching jobs as an example- you might argue that you need to switch jobs because the folks at your current job aren't Christians, and their behavior is dragging you down. There may be a temptation to fall and changing jobs is a way out- as promised. On the other hand as a Christian we're supposed to be in the world, so God may want to use you to bring His word and His attitudes before your co-workers, they probably aren't going to church. So what do you do? God doesn't need you to bring His word to your co-workers, but He also wants you to mature spiritually, and we feel weaker than we probably are and therefore look for an easy out. In this case after much prayer and consultation lots may be the only way to determine how to proceed. Of course part of the lot process is abiding by His decision.

Now God is not in lots if you are trying to decide if its OK to sin. depending on what it is sin is clearly forbidden. Another use for lots is a sign, again you must be willing to abide and the choices must not be against scripture. That may be why this story is in Acts 1. Most people will tell you the disciples were disobedient- Jesus told them go to Jerusalem and "wait". Wait for the Holy Spirit was His directive, or wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Sprit. Drawing lots for a replacement disciple may not be waiting, and the apostle Paul is generally regarded as the "replacement" for Judas. I heard the "disobedient" piece, and about Paul today on the radio. Its interesting how God works.

Another thing I'm hearing is about the ten spies in Canaan. It was on the devotional I get from WMIT the radio station I listen to. The 10 spies reported factual information and opinions based on their experience. Trouble is this denied the power of God. The question is are we one of the 10 sometimes? Another little message was that we don't ask God big things. In the same way of the 10 spies, not asking for exceeding blessings, but rather "just what we feel we need" denies the power of God. So ask big was the thought- it pleases Him. There isn't anything He can't do: heal sick, fix relationships. He may say no, but He'll be pleased you asked.

One more thought and then I quit for today. In dealing with people isn't it far easier if both have a similar concept of God? Look at all issues the politicians bring up, and other social issues that people have different ideas on how to "fix". My thought was that at any point of friction between me and another individual, the topic of conversation (at least mine) needs to turn to how I view God, and how I came to that opinion, and maybe even the scriptures that support my belief. I know there will still be differences of opinion in some cases but it may be a witnessing prompt in others. My prayer is for me to be emboldened and ask people who have differing opinions, or who want things I disagree with "how (hopefully Biblically) they came to that position.

I'm having a hard time being positive, but yet the path to happiness doesn't go through negativity. Tomorrow is the traditional day of atonement, and I've been thinking of what I could "sacrifice". There are so many options, -money, food, etc. I see and hear people talk about what is wrong with this world, and at no point do they say we are following Christ to too great an extent. Mostly what they say treats a symptom. A symptom caused by a lack of following Christ. Truly and not what they may have seen accomplished by hypocrits. In some cases I'm sure I appear as a hypocrit, and hopefully a person will look past my failures and catch a glimpse of what I'm trying to follow. Of course focusing on hypocrisy is easier sometimes than admitting that we as individuals are imperfect and make mistakes. Well I thought additionally I might start typing my prayer or at least my prayer thoughts, if for no other reason than to vocalize them (or at least record them). We're supposed to pray solutions and not problems. In which case it is God's desire for a wonderful family life and work life, but mainly a close relationship with Him. Work has been tough- reactionary policy with its potential problems seem to leap off the page at me and I grieve over the blindness that has allowed this state to occur. Calling it to someone's attention will mean I may get labeled "troublemaker" but do I care more for a label given by men, or in doing the right thing? Its a choice that many have made. I also want to make God even more of a focus in my life, but work presents an obstacle if I choose to let it- great another choice. My prayer is to remain firm in my beliefs and quietly exhort people in the right direction when the opportunity arises.

Anyway the scripture from 10 months or so ago is John 4. Chapter 4 has the Samaritan woman at the well story. He reached across ethnic and gender lines to talk to her. She had been married multiple times in addition showing that God reaches out to all. In addition the worship of God verse 23 does not depend on physical earthly location. Rituals can be dangerous, its spirit and truth. Worship of God is an encounter with Him, and we as worshipers should expect Him to be a part of our worship. He is there whether we detect it sensually or not. We also need to confess and purify our hearts in the Lord's presence. In verse 48 Jesus says unless people see signs and wonders they will not believe. His Word says He is there when two or three are gathered in His name whether we sense it or not.

I've stayed up too late, but reading the Bible is always a blessing, and some things have been on my mind I wanted to write down. I typed them in my journal so to speak of New Testament thoughts and in about 30 blog entries it will show up. If I still find it relevant that is. In my yearly reading I have just finished the gospels, but noticed my log had 22 gospel chapter entries left. I hope to focus on those prior to continuing, but I will miss Paul and his letters, so we will see how that works out. My personal anti-negativity campaign is not without difficulty, but I think I'm becoming more aware of it and being more like I should be. I just need to listen and obey. I also feel terribly burdened at work, and someone said I seemed depressed (which maybe true), but it maybe more in the line of frustration. You see or hear or sense another's troubles and can very clearly see a solution a fix a permanent positive change, but since it is tied to Jesus they don't want to hear it. Jesus is associated with religion and depending on a person's religious experience there may be bad connotations. Oh that people would consider Him on His merits, and seek a relationship with Him just to see where it goes.

Well for the review it was John 3. Nicodemus recognized (as did other Pharisees) that God was with Jesus by His miracles. John 3:8 also sticks out in terms of showing the unpredictability of those folks led by God. We as people are always trying to define things, we make assessments of people and feel like we can predict them based on what we perceive. Verse 8 is God's reminder that He is not predictable, and neither are the people that follow Him. I think its an important point for example that what is right for one church may not be right for another, and over time the Spirit may (will) lead people and churches in different directions. John 3:27 is John the Baptist's confession that he can only do what God wants him too. He was generally well revered (at least a curiosity) but he confessed his place and that what he had accomplished was given to him by God and that all anyone could ever do is what God has ordained or given to them.

In study skills class we are keeping logs of how we spend time. Its a good exercise to "see" where all the time goes, and hopefully make the necessary choices for positive change. The chapter we are on is "planning". One of the points of the chapter is that we don't plan, but are rather carried away by life. When that happens we find ourselves "too busy", "don't have time", etc. Another point it makes is that the important things get done. As a parent if your child needs to go to the doctor it happens, regardless of how "busy" you are. So lately I've been thinking about these things along with some advice I was given years ago in a factory- "in a hundred years it won't matter". How many of the things we worry about, stress over, feel burdened by -won't matter in a hundred years? I think people relationships have the best chance of "mattering" in fact I would say they do, whereas watching that TV show, or getting in "one more load of laundry" probably won't.

Another thought I had today based on my logging of time spent is computer access. There are times I'm reading on the computer from the Internet. Years ago a person had to do their reading from a book. The thought struck me that while the Internet may exceed in quantity, the quality has a good chance of being diminished as compared to a book (that was reviewed and approved by some process).

I'm glad I read this again from last November, it was just as relevant today. John 2 The wedding in Cana. Its very interesting that I just read about old wine in old wine skins and new wine in new wine skins and how they shouldn't be mixed. I took that to mean the covenants God made with the people through following the Law (old wine) and the new covenant believing in His Son. Both amounted to the same thing in terms of truly following the law leads anyone to the place they realize they can't do it on their own but need divine help. So they accept the sacrifice of Jesus if living after the cross and look to God to forgive their sins if they lived before the cross. Jesus miracle at the wedding was turning water into wine which the headwaiter proclaimed that the new wine was much better than the old. I wonder if this is referring to covenants? it is also interesting that Jesus told His mother His time had not yet come, but still obeyed her as a child is commanded to do in the ten commandments. This chapter also involves the driving the moneychangers out of the temple, God's house should not be a place of business. Jesus had many people believe because of His signs and wonders, but did not trust Himself to man because He knew their hearts. People can seem Godly and seemingly accept Jesus but we don't know their hearts, only God does and in this instance He chose not to confide in them.

In my walk/run today I went alone. I cherish the reflection time. I can think of how far I have to go, how tired my body is, or I can think about God. Today (Nov 8, 2006) it came to me that we have basically two choices in life. We can do things in a way we reason suits us best, or we can do things God's way. I guess I thought of it because going out to run I almost did not. I didn't feel like it, I had other work to do that I needed to do, but I went because I know I need a certain amount of exercise. Toward the end of the run I was feeling the joy of the accomplishment, but I could plainly remember the doubt or reservation I had in leaving. Following God is like that. Looking into our future there are certain things we know we should do for God. They require sacrifice and discomfort on our part, there is usually an alternative that is more pleasing to our self. We may not realize the reward in following God in this life and we know it, whereas not following God seemingly has rewards and in a quicker more immediate time frame. Then I thought of times I had not followed God, I made a clear choice not to, the "reward" for doing so seems so inconsequential now. Actually there is regret, anguish. I contrasted that with times I followed God consciously in this life and realized His reward (or part of it) I can't think of any regrets in those cases I only have pleasant memories. How true is "there is a way that seems right unto man ... I don't know why that came to me on a run, but I'm glad it did and may I be constantly reminded of that truth as I live the rest of my life and face the choices that will inevitably come.

Yesterday in my going through the new testament I read about the widow's offering. That needs some explanation- I go through the new testament, then review it later before posting it on the blog. I'm many entries away from the widow's offering, but the interesting thing is I read it, and the same scripture was part of the daily devotional that was sent to me. This person reflected that gifts to God are measured not by what you give or the amount, but rather what you are willing to give up or as they put -what you have left after giving. I never thought of it along those lines, but its interesting. Additionally it is an area I struggle with. I look forward to reviewing this again and maybe remembering at some future time.

I continue to be tired, and am putting my foot down that some things need to change. I mopped water in a lab today (AC condensate), my office is getting dimmer. These are the facts, my feelings are ones of frustration. I may have fixed the condensate leak, we will see Monday.

My other projects seem to be going well, an ice cream social may be in the works. I certainly hope so.

I didn't edit this, it looked very good and was a joy to re-read. Luke 5 Luke records the calling of the first disciples. Luke has more detail, the first disciples follow Jesus after hearing a sermon and witnessing Him prospering their business through a large catch. He then heals a leper and a paralytic- the one whose friends lowered him through the roof. Jesus also call Levi the tax collector who invited Jesus to a party. Jesus makes two interesting statements near the end of the chapter "I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance" and later in a parable says" No one after drinking old wine wants new: for he says, 'the old is good enough.' " The law pointed clearly to Christ, although we have the benefit of looking back. The law was also misinterpreted and was made by some factions into a legalistic burden on people. It took faith to follow the old covenant and those who earnestly attempted to keep the law and were honest with themselves sought God's mercy and forgiveness. They knew they had failed . others compared their success in keeping the law with others and felt like if they were doing a better job of keeping the law then they somehow justified themselves. Jesus statement implies to me that if interpreted correctly the old covenant made folks righteous. In some way they knew they needed God's help and like Abraham said "the Lord Himself will provide the sacrifice". They then looked ahead to Christ and recognized Him when they saw him - like as a baby in the temple. So Christ came not to call the righteous (which there had to be some for Him to say it), but rather to reach out to sinners people who had decided to live for themselves or realized they had already miserably failed at keeping the Law and had given up.