Thank you

Serve the Lord with Gladness

2011-09-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

The title is from verse 2 of the 100 book of Psalms. The actual sermon; however, draws from Leviticus 24:10-14. I was inspired by God, always, but recently my pastor made a brief statement that I thought was cool. When you are reading Leviticus 24 and you think that it is intense then you will have a deeper appreciation for what I’m about to say. During Bible study, and I’m paraphrasing, my pastor mentioned something like not everything is all sweet with God. Sometimes you have to digest the bitter as well. But when you eat both, there is a different flavor altogether both fighting for your attention which makes for a unique experience for your taste buds. So, in keeping with his theme, I have some bittersweet spiritual food for you, eat well and enjoy!

In verse 10 of Leviticus 24 the Bible tells the story of the son of an Israelite woman and an Egyptian father. The interesting thing about this story is that the Bible is very general about the son. But the fact that the son was mixed Egyptian and Israelite gives my imagination plenty to play with. For instance, we know that the Egyptians were slave masters of the Israelites and we also know that this transition from power is pretty recent as the children of Israel (at this point in the story) have made it beyond the Red Sea but had not yet made it to the Promised Land. So it is safe to say that the children of Israel ‘s experiences with slavery would still be fresh in their minds.

However, to put it in perspective, blacks were the slaves of whites some 200+ years ago and the sting of slavery along with its residual impact is still fresh as well. As I remember well into the 1980s and 1990s it was still difficult for some to see a black person and a white person in a romantic relationship. Therefore, I’m sure it was difficult for the Israelites to see a son of an Egyptian man among them. It would have probably been just as hard for this son to adjust to being the outsider as well.

Another experience of a mixed relationship, I remember, is Hagar who was the Egyptian maid and had a son by Abraham the grandfather of Jacob (who was renamed Israel by God). The child from this union was Ishmael. Sarah (Abraham’s wife) couldn't deal with the fact that her husband had a child by someone else that as soon as she had a child of her own she kicked Hagar and Ishmael out. This experience demonstrates the raw emotion that is bred by having a child outside of the confines of a sacred union blessed by God.

The issues and possibilities that stemmed from the relationship of an Egyptian father and Israelite mother are endless. In order for a slave to remain a slave, the slave master would have had to employ strategies that would breed a slave mentality from the Israelites. They would have been very aggressive in their tactics and nothing would have been withheld with regards to insuring subjection to the slave master’s rules. We know this because the Bible stated that Moses killed an Egyptian that he witnessed beating an Israelite (Exodus 2:12). Therefore, within this adversarial type relationship they had, it would not be irrational to think of several possibilities that could have happened. She could have been raped, they could have legitimately been in love and had a child, she could have seduced him and used that to manipulate favors during her time as a slave, or they could have had a one night stand. But I don’t believe that they would have had a healthy marital relationship under the circumstances of slavery.

In addition to the complications surrounding their relationship, I also believe it would have been tough for the Egyptian father to take an active role in his son’s life. Their relationship would have caused a significant amount of uncomfortableness within the Israelite community. It would have also been possible that the father could have died in the Red Sea along with the other members of Pharaoh’s army or simply stayed behind (giving up his parental rights) while his mother left with the rest of the Israelites on their journey to the Promised Land. With regard to all this it is probably a safe assumption that the son would have had some difficulty fitting into with the Israelite community.

The other interesting thing is the Bible does not mention the son’s name. One of the things that I know about God is that he knows the names of his children. The people that he really knew, for emphasis their names were mentioned twice in one setting. (Abraham in Genesis 22:11, Martha in Luke 10:41, Simon in Luke 22:31, and Saul in Acts 9:4). The worst thing one can do to leave this earth and stand before God and have him say depart from me I know you not. Therefore, if there is any doubt, you may want to begin introductions today.

Knowing a little of the background and inferring things about the son’s parents and the possibilities of the relationship between the Egyptians and the Israelites, the Father and the son, and the community and family we probably can tell that the son would have had some behavioral issues. Additionally, there probably would not have been a nurturing type environment and it would be understandable to believe that the son would have had some social issues as well. The Bible confirms this by mentioning the son Strove (Genesis 26:20,Exodus 21:18) with an Israelite man. And because of this he lost control of his emotions and “blasphemed the name of the Lord and cursed (verse 11).”

There was such a lack of respect on the son’s behalf. He didn’t appear to respect man or God. The Lord responded accordingly by instructing Moses to stone him. Immediately our hearts would probably want to be with the son but in this instance the best way to do justice is to train our children. Let them know that it doesn’t matter where you are from, what side of the tracks you may be on, or even who your father and mother are you still have to have a relationship with God for yourself. And, God still has set the expectation of respect. There isn’t an excuse good enough to disrespect God in this way and God does not obligate himself to be merciful in this instance.

We know that when things don’t work out for us right now and we have those bad days, as we sometimes tend to have, it is better not to focus on this trouble but focus on God. It is how we respond to those bad days that make the difference. If the son would have been focused on God and took the advice that his leader Moses provided he would have been able to “stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.” He would have been able to pass the tests that were before him. He would have been able to know the God that I know, one who is full of grace and mercy. He would have known a God that would fight battles for you. But for some reason that son didn’t know to call on that God. We have the opportunity to get to know that God and learn from the son’s mistakes. Once you do, it won’t be a problem to “Serve the Lord with Gladness.”

Hungry for God

2011-04-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hunger pains exist in our lives and can lead to a relevant word for such a time as this. Knowing this information has allowed me to delve into my desire to sit down and enjoy the spiritual food from God's table. Why am I thus if I don't choose to eat from the master chef that teaches all chefs. I am hoping that, by sharing these experiences, someone will be compelled to come and join me and we will be filled together. The book of Luke 14: 16-23:

16Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

17And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

18And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

19And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.

20And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

21So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

22And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.

23And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

After reading these verses, I am mindful that there are times when an invitation is sent that you must not turn down. The invitation is such that it would come from someone so special that every effort is made to attend and all other scheduled events would be rearranged to accommodate this request. For instance, one of the State Dinners hosted by the President, William & Catherine's Royal Wedding, or perhaps something so intimately planned by a spouse that no amount of convincing would change your mind about attending. The thought process is that you understand the amount of resources that would have gone into preparing such an elaborate display of hospitality that will be unmatched by no other existing life event.
However, each invitee in the scripture did exactly what would have caused any sane person to exclaim..."Have you lost your mind?"

Maybe this isn't an understatement if you held onto the logic that they could have gone to the Master's dinner at anytime. And logically, this would be correct. But another thought I have suggests that this wasn't just any event. First, scripture describes that the Master was angry. If I were to go with the logic theory, then it would be logical to say that the master was angry and in an effort not to waste the effort/food the master extends an invitation to those whom he thinks will appreciate the work that was put into this event. A host just doesn't get angry and go to this extent for just anything. For instance, that type of energy would not be wasted if dinner just came from a drive through window. This leads me to believe that the effort was not only monumental but this would have been the master's best work.

Second, this event is in parallel to those who are extended an invite to heaven. One might say, but this is God and God can just speak things into existence. And that's true; however, in Genesis 1:1 the Bible talks about how God created the world in 6 days. After thousands of years and countless people spending lifetimes exploring the world, we still have not explored all their is to know about God's creation. There are still unexamined and unnamed stars, unexplored mountains, unpioneerd and uncharted territories to this very day. We know that if God can create something so awesome in six days then this meal will have to be something to behold, cherish, and remember for the rest of our lives.

Last, scripture says that he bade many. But after replacing those he bade, they were finding that they still had lots of room to accommodate those with their excuses. It is important to note that this behavior begs us to pay attention that the master wanted as many people in attendence as possible. The work would have had to have been worthy of such effort.

I'm convinced that the people would have not understood the magnitude of this event or they would not have turned it down. It is as if their minds were not illuminated to the possibilities; otherwise they would have definitely made the event a priority. I witness a lot of those who don't believe. They will be the ones representing the people who had excuses for why they weren't available during the invitation period. But heaven is a must and in order to go we must be hungry for it, anticipate it's coming, and appreciate the work/effort that went into the preparation. This strong desire to find out what it takes to get there won't go unnoticed by a God who spared no resources to insure it is worth the wait!

Strategies of Obfuscation

2011-02-08T22:03:00.000-08:00

In the wake of what some individuals have called one of the worst financial times in history, a strong statement punctuated by high unemployment among other factors. In times like these, we need to be very careful because it breeds opportunity for predators to take advantantage. Why is this important now? Once again an opportunity to delve into scripture presents itself and i'm most excited to share an experience from the life of Jesus (please reference St. John 13).

I used the title strategies of obfuscation, but I could have just as effectively used the titles "Don't be Naive" and "Get to know your Enemy." Allow me to explain further, in verse 1 of John 13 the Bible states "...Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father." This is a powerful statement in itself. It has similarities in the atmospheric realm of this present time. There would have been a sense of feeling that something huge is about to happen but you can't quite understand exactly what it is. Sort of like seeing all these signs that something is in the air but you can't quite put your finger on the magnitude as to what these signs reveal. But the enemy knows. And the enemy is already positioning himself to prepare.

In verse 2, the Bible lets us know that the devil has put it into Judas Iscariot's heart to betray Jesus. This positioning was so subtil that it escaped the senses of the disciples. Although they were not alert to this, Jesus was. It is a perfect example of obfuscation because it would have been difficult to perceive the enemy's strategy. He came as a wolf in sheep's clothing unbeknownst to those around him. He became a part of the family, someone whom they would never question the integrity because he became one of them.

Jesus, and I love this about him, took this time to immediately address the situation. With his infinite wisdom, he creates an opportunity to demonstrate the love of a real King of Kings while, at the same time, exposing the pretender for who he really is. The thing I most respect about Jesus is that he didn't put the devil down to make himself look good, he simply got down on his knees and washed his disciples feet. And he basically said, in verse 14-15, I lead by example. He taught us what all good leaders will do. He, in essence, compared his leadership skills to that of the devil and asked you to decide who you wanted to follow.

Exposing the devil for who he is, isn't easy. Because he would have just denied it or altered his form of attack. Jesus knew who he was from the beginning and he allowed the disciples in on this by stating in verse 11 that "Ye are not all clean." This was so awesome, because it teaches us to stay on alert at all times. We can't allow our guards to slip we can't begin to become comfortable because our adversary is always seeking who he will devour.

Jesus made it clear that we cannot serve two masters. He wanted us to choose but the choice won't be easy because the enemy is skilled at making you trust that he is a leader. His tactics are similar in nature even, that is why it is important to note that he betrayed Jesus with a kiss or the ultimate sign of love. But if you understand that love can only come from God then your eyes will begin to be opened. And you will learn that you can't trust even a kiss from the enemy. But you can trust God.

In this present time, I just feel that something is about to happen but I can't put my finger on it's magnitude. I used this example to show you that the enemy has not changed much. You still can't trust him. So maintain high alert, stay on guard at all times, and by all means consult our Father for his leadership style is unmatched. In all thy ways acknowledge him and trust him to direct your paths.

The Have's and the Have Nots

2011-01-15T15:01:00.000-08:00

The have's and the have nots is an interesting cliche. It immediately differenciates something desireable from everything else that doesn't quite meet the criteria of the first category. It begs the question, what happens when you want something you can't have? I'm glad you asked because I always look forward to opportunities that exist like these...the chance to answer a question by researching scripture. Let the church say AMEN! (reference Genesis 39:1-23 with emphasis on 12-16)

Once you've reviewed this, you become familiar with the story of Potipher's wife. The Bible doesn't say this; but, I need you to come with me and let's develop her character a little more. For instance, I see that she has to have good taste in men. We know that Potipher is a powerful man because he has position, authority, and he owns slaves. Therefore, in turn, I figure Potipher's wife to be an extremely beautiful and well-kept woman with access to generous resources that keep her this way. I just believe that an appealing wife would be a requirement for this powerful man. I also believe she has good-judgement. She would have an eye for the finer things and would be used to getting her way. I'm very sure that she is not used to hearing the word "No." She was, afterall, Potipher's wife. But she was attracted to Joseph. Her's was an unrestrained passion because she couldn't understand why Joseph (specifically in verse 10) turned her down day by day.

Now Joseph, in contrast to Potipher's wife, was a slave. He was brought to Egypt against his will. Therefore, he would not have had the same slave mindset. He would have needed to be broken (forced into submission). I imagine him to be very handsome (or at least appealing to Potipher's wife) and very intelligent. He also had integrity and a strong hard work ethic. But, the Bible states the Lord was with him and he was a prosporous man. In fact, the Lord blessed Potipher's house for Joseph's sake. Therefore, he was well-favored and a goodly person.

These qualities caught Potipher's wife's eye. She wanted Joseph...intimately. Now that we have this background as our framework we need to go back to the original question. What happens when you want something you can't have? Potipher's wife had everything a well-kept wife of a powerful man could want and then some. She had influence and a lifestyle that causes envy. In today's times she could preface her life with cars, homes, and all manner of fabulous things of beauty. Whereas, Joseph had none of this and at this stage neither could he provide. However, Potipher's wife's example screams that there is an instance when even though it appears you have everything...you will always want more. Simply stated, all the stuff she was trying to fill her life with couldn't make her happy because she was really trying to fill this void without the Lord which is the only one capable of truely making her happy.

This woman showed desparation for something that Joseph knew he could not provide and I respect the fact that he was strong enough not to be used. Verses 12 and 16 are especially disturbing to me as it reads that "she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me." To have is a choice and she chose to hold on to Joseph's garment. But what a thought if she knew that she could hold on to the garment of praise and the garment of salvation. In verse 16 it reads "she laid up his garment by her, until his lord came home." But what a thought if she knew that she could touch the hem of His garment and be made whole.

This woman also showed a flawed logic. In verse 14 it reads that "she called unto the men of her house, and spake unto them, saying, See, he hath brought in an Hebrew unto us to mock us." To have is a mindset what if she clung to the scripture "be not deceived God is not mocked."

Joseph showed us that to have is a state of being. While he was enslaved, Joseph's master (verse 20 - 21) put him into prison. But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy and gave him favor. So it may seem that those who appear to have, actually have not.

But you can have:
- eternal life
- joy unspeakable
- grace and mercy
- peace that surpasseth understanding
and the list goes on and on....My suggestion to you, be one of the haves that has the qualities that God wants you to have.

Do you hear what I hear?

2010-11-20T08:22:00.000-08:00

Benjamin Franklin was the author of this popular saying: "Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see." While I have great respect for dear old Ben, I have to disagree. This saying is only appropriate in the secular world. In the spiritual, I would assert that if the source is from God, believe it. But if the source is not of God, not only do you not believe it, neither should you give your time and energy into it.

The book of Revelation 2:7 states "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." If you don't believe any of what you hear it becomes very difficult to process anything that is heard in the Spirit world, for it takes faith to believe. In addition, Matthew 13:9-16 alerts us that there is something important that needs to be seen, heard, and understood. Jesus says it is only given to certain people to know the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is a message so powerful, that the enemy does everything in his power to snatch it away and cause unfruitfulness in your life.

Are you getting the message?
Do you see? hear? understand? There aren't any wasted words in the Bible, every word has purpose and there even words that are not there that send just as strong of a message. For instance, Luke 16:19-20 Jesus tells the story of a certain rich man and Lazarus. In his description of the rich man, Jesus omits the following information (the rich man's name, doesn't reveal anything personal about the rich man, and doesn't describe the rich man's location, but describes in full detail the rich man's lifestyle). In contrast, Jesus reveals that he knows Lazarus by name, he provides a detailed description of Lazarus' health, he let's us know exactly where Lazarus is positioned but doesn't talk much about Lazarus' possessions).

Are you getting the message?
You need to understand something about outer appearances... In the book of Samuel at the end of the 17th chapter and the beginning of the 18th chapter, we can compare and contrast David before and after he killed the Philistine (Goliath).
David before:

David after:

David is the same David as he was before, but based upon: his covenant relationship with the King's son, the new clothes he wore that belonged to Jonathan, and his obedience to the king, he was granted access into places he shouldn't have been able to go. Not only that, what did David see and hear that Saul and the rest of the army couldn't see and hear? How did David know that Goliath could be defeated so easily? The answer is: Saul was looking at the problem and saw defeat, but David was looking at God and saw victory.

(Back in Luke 16:19-20) It is important to understand why the clothes, and the other things the rich man had, could not allow him to get into heaven. It is also important to understand that Lazarus' outer appearance didn't matter as long as he had on: the garment of praise, the breastplate of righteousness, his feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, a helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit. Because of these "clothes", Lazarus was granted access into places he shouldn't have. Because of his obedience to the King of Kings, he was able to exchange his earthly clothes for heavenly apparell. The Bible reveals that Jesus knew Lazarus by name, but the certain rich man had to depart from him because Jesus knew him not.

And now, the rich man is in hell being tormented by flame asking Lazarus (of all people) to bring him a drop of water whereas Lazarus (the same person who couldn't get a crumb from the rich man's table) is in heaven comforted by Abraham who denied the rich man's request.

Are you getting the message?
You need to understand that mercy doesn't exist in hell. The 8th chapter of John talks about the woman who was caught in adultry. She was in the middle of controversy with a huge need for mercy, grace, and defence. She as perceived as a woman used to being in dirty situations and people thought she deserved to be killed. But Jesus, stooped down and wrote in the dirt. He came in contact with the very dirt she was trying to get away from. In fact, he wrapped himself up in dirt, he was born in a dirty manger, he was dirty while he carried the cross, he fell down in dirt, his blood was mixed with dirt. But instead of being the judge and jury she deserved, Jesus preferred to be the most awesome defense attorney she needed. The same defense attorney we have access to today.

But once you pass over from death to eternal life, you no longer have an advocate with the father. Luke 26 says there is a great gulf fixed so that they would pass from hence to them cannot and neither can they pass to them. Furthermore, the certain rich man wanted to send a message to his brothers so that they didn't end up where he is; however, Abraham tells him that the message is already out there. It is a message so important that even if you are having trouble hearing it, you still need to try. With your eyes and ears opened up you can see and hear certain things that flesh and blood have not revealed it to thee; but, my father which is heaven has to reveal it. It is a message so powerful that Matthew 16:18 says the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. It is a message so anointed that if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. It is a message so complete that the sun gave no light for three hours while Jesus hung on the cross.

The messages provide warning and peace. They can fulfill a certain need and provide a relevant word. The messages can show you where to look and can bind and loose things in earth and in heaven. The messages can help you to see right through certain things...just like Jesus saw right through that kiss the night that Judas betrayed him. I don't proclaim to know all that God wants me to know. But I know enough to know that it is going to take some effort on your part. I encourage you to prepare yourselves now to receive the message.

The Lions' Den

2010-09-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

I know that this is unimaginative as far as titles go. But the topic i'm about to discuss, in my mind, is far from it. When many think of the lion's den, they immediately think of Daniel and how God delivered him. And while this is the highlight for me as well. Recently, I was intrigued by the behavior of the lions. Allow me to explain.

I recently watched a grueling video on youtube that showed lions hunting and attacking human prey. One male lion was lying down in the grass, appearing to be asleep or at least unassuming of any human activity nearby. The photographer/videographer was (for lack of a better word) intrigued enough to step out of his vehicle to get a closer look/shot of the lion. The lion stayed still as the guy ventured tentatively closer apparantly gaining boldness as he quietly and carefully stepped forward but every now and then he'd stop with less surety as if to break and run at a moments notice. But then it happened, he got too close. The female lion came from nowhere and attacked. The human victim was gone in seconds giving me a glimpse of what happens when lions are hungry.

This is why it was so fascinating to me to revert back to my knowledge of Daniel's experience in the lions' den. The lions' den was a place where hungry lions are kept. They are actually kept hungry on purpose as a deterrant to people breaking the law. The lions know when it is feeding time because a stone is removed from the mouth of the den letting in light. The food is then delivered, at will, to the lions whose natural instinct as hunters has been curtailed by the race to be the first to capture food before it hits the ground.

At the time Daniel was delivered; however, God blocked the lion's ability to eat him by "shutting the lions' mouths." This is interesting to me because every fiber of the lions nature had to be subdued during a time when they were hungry. Not only that, but it had to be subdued while food was sitting right in front of them. But the lions were obedient and would not eat. Hungry or not, what God said not to touch, they did not touch. The behavior not only tested the lions, but it showed me what happens when you give yourself over to full obedience to God.

Allow me to give you an example that puts it into perspective. As a single woman of God, sometimes it gives me great pleasure to dream about my wedding. There are men out there; however, that God does not want me to touch. But as a human I realize that sometimes my hunger for having companionship in my life can overpower my desire to be obedient. And i'm tested all the time. Men are placed in front of me continuously. And I find myself wanting to date, wanting to explore. There are plenty wrong men to date. However, it is my intent to allow God to shut my mouth. Even though i'm hungry, i've learned it is better to wait for God.

Speaking of better, the Bible indicates that after Daniel was removed from the lions' den, the king commanded those men who accused Daniel, their wives, and their children to replace Daniel. The lions feasted on them, breaking all their bones in pieces, before they made it to the bottom of the den. Once again fascinating me, to actually understand the level of the lions hunger described in such a manner. Had they eaten Daniel, they would have had to share one body, possibly even still being hungry, and possibly not having enough for all the lions to eat. They would have never known or fully trusted that God could deliver and the lions would have never feasted so much. Full grown lions would have fought over one body. But instead, they trusted God and God delivered. Yet again, demonstrating God's unlimited knowledge and power. He made the lions wait, with food in front of them, and as a reward for their obedience they were all fully fed.

I trust too, that God's unlimited knowledge and power will show just as generously in my life. As I watch and remain hungry with food in front of me, i'll keep reminding myself of the obedience of the lions, and expect to be rewarded with a full satisfying meal at the end of my testing period. No silly, not that God will deliver multiple men for me to feast on but that my God will supply all my need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Knowing God's record, just like with the lions, the person he has for me will be worth the wait.

The God of the Details

2010-09-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

While reading Exodus 26:1-9, It occurred to me that there was a lot of information that may or may not be attractive to itching ears. It doesn't appeal to the spirit of adventure in us, it doesn't appear to be an important subject, and it doesn't provide generous stories that challenges faith. What it does provide, is a new and fresh prospective on the God that I serve; hence the awesome title, the God of the details.

I was surprised that so much time and energy was devoted to talk about "curtains?" On a scale of importance, I would have ranked it pretty low. But the fact that significant attention is given to unexpected challenges (i.e. the entire book of job) whereas only two verses talk about Jabez, who gave us one of the most well recognized prayer's in the Bible that begins ("Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed..." demonstrates that my level of importance differs greatly from the author. However, the fact is that we are favored with the details surrounding God's instructions to the children of Israel with the task of curtain making.

Before we delve more, it would be interesting to note what happened before these instructions were handed down to the children of Israel. They were enslaved under the leadership of Pharoah. While in slavery the Children of Israel were learning the skill of brick making. A skill in contrast to curtain making for various reasons. First, brick making is hard on the hands and the body, it doesn't challenge the imagination, and it is performed in harsh conditions. As a result of adherance to the demands of the Pharoah, the Israelites would have been very skilled in this craft. They would have served God well in this area. However, God saw fit to call them to a different skillset.

Curtain making is not even remotely close to brick making. First, bricks are typically used on the outside. The material used would need to be durable enough to withstand the elements. Curtains are an added detail, an accessory, that is used to add to the attractiveness of the tabernacle. They set the tone of the room. Verse 1alone, mentions four uniquely different concepts (Quantity, Texture, Color, and Quality). It was a part of their responsibility as slaves to make as many bricks as quickly as possible. But God introduces a controlled concept. He tells them to make a limited amount of curtains. This leads me to the conclusion that quantity control is important as too much would be overwhelming and too little underwhelming. Texture of bricks is rough and durable, unlike curtains which are soft, delicate, and need to be handled with care. Brick color is pretty standard; but, rich hues of vibrant colors are introduced in curtain making. The last concept, quality with bricks would be pretty uninspirational; however, with curtains it would allow the creator to show off their skill with cunning craftsanship. In essence, curtains would allow the artistry of the people to take on a level that far surpasses that of brick making.

Why is all this important? Maybe God is trying to pull the Israelite's mind out of the mundane aspect of brickmaking. Maybe God is trying to show them that details do matter. Or maybe God is trying to tell us that what is on the inside is just as important as on the outside. Maybe some of you can identify or are brickmakers yourselves but instead of bricks you try to capitalize on making more money. You get up day after day doing the same thing over and over because you think making more and more money is the answer. God is waiting almost as if letting you know that he can and will bring you out of slavery, part seas for you to cross, and lead you out of the wilderness into the promised land. But this is taking us to a place where details will eventually matter.

It is unfortunate, that many will get to this point (from slavery to the palace) to skip over the details in an effort to begin "ruling" the land. But God demonstrates the importance of building the tabernacle first. Foundations need to be laid and set. Then frames must go up and drywall needs to be hung. Next, painting and mudding needs to take place. Afterwards, decoration takes place. After all of this, you can be in a place where you can serve and worship God. The whole point of the matter...Don't forget to serve and worship God. He did, afterall, not miss any of the important details.

Gender Bias

2010-07-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

I've been asked, more than once, about my role in the ministry with respect to women ministers. For which, I don't have an official stance or even a response that I would deem as the end all to this argument. I remember asking God about this as well. I actually took several years to be very sure this is what he wanted and not something I wanted for myself. I'm excited to say that God still does hear and answer prayer. I am honored to be called into this role.

However, there are those who are still not convinced and I respect that. So for you who don't believe that woman should preach, by all means, listen to a man preach. I would rather you hear and accept salvation because you heard it from a man whose position as a preacher you could accept than to go to hell because you could not accept the same message by a woman preacher.

As for me, I have the faith that God will make room, but even if he doesn't "I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need and in addition to that "naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither...blessed be the name of the LORD" anyway. Besides, I think, the woods would be very quiet if only the male birds were allowed to sing.

Celebrate Life

2009-12-23T03:35:00.000-08:00

My friend and I were talking about our similar challenges of this year. We both reflected the similar ways in which we were laid off, the period of time we were without health insurance, and how we both had to endure temporary financial setbacks. But through it all, we remembered that God did not leave us alone, and we both learned to depend on his wisdom. Now that we are at the end of the year, it is easy to focus on the negative. It is also easy to feel sorry and depressed. But life is too short. There are a tremendous amount of blessings that we incurred as well. If we are not careful, we could forget.

Take some time this holiday season to make a few sacrifices. Donate a toy, provide a meal to a homeless person, give to the salvation army (even though they ring that annoying bell everytime you walk into the store). And as you do, you will be reminded that there is someone less fortunate than you are and that you do have a lot for which to be grateful. Hopefully, in the end, you should feel good about adding to someone else's life a blessing even if it wasn't your turn to receive. This should provide you a reason, to celebrate life.

Why would God send people to Hell?

2009-10-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

I've heard this question and several variants many times. God has allowed us free will to choose; however, some usually think that it'd be easier if God just told us what we needed to do. There are essentially two choices. The first is life by believing salvation through Jesus Christ, or the alternative, death and destruction by rejecting the belief that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. Then why even have a choice?

I force my daughter and myself to do things against our wills all the time; but if I didn't, I hate to imagine what our lives would be like. A simple image of the house in disarray, the bills unpaid, and school/work never making it on the list of priorities is enough of a motivator. I've intermittently tried methods that apply understandable logic, compromising patience, and the forceful "because I said so." I've since learned that it is never a good time to ask for help to clean and she could care less what my reasons are. However, what if there wasn't an option; what if there was a list of things that had to be done (no matter what) and no reason given as to why? Eventually, I would not be able to trust the process and I'd be back where we started, asking for a choice anyway. Isn't that what landed Eve in front of the tree, contemplating the beauty of the fruit, and not wanting to even try to understand why God told them the fruit was forbidden in the first place?

So then why, would God send people to Hell? "Because God said so", works for me.

Child Support

2009-10-13T02:58:00.000-07:00

It is a strange thing about people not wanting to pay child support. My daughter's father decided he would try to punish me by not paying child support. Years later, my faith in the Lord has kept me from having to depend on child support as a source. After speaking with him, I realized that what he used to punish me became a bondage to him. His mind is strange, his problems are very deep, and he sounds like depression could overtake him at any point. Issues that stem from this terrible mistake in theory. I also realized, what he used to try to curse me ended up being a curse to him. Until he does right by our daughter, he will never be able to begin to overcome the irrepairable damage that is causing his life to be so grim. I feel sorry for him.

Believe in God Anyway

2009-07-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

Many times the enemy puts new and attractive ideas out that challenge our ability to remain steadfast in our faith. For instance, using people to ask questions typically designed to trap you into some kind of answer that they then use against you. As a result, you are influenced into some type of shame or guilt compelling you to waiver. As long as your beliefs are in alignment with God’s word, stay in faith. There are also times when we don’t even need to know his tricks. We just need to remain steadfast anyway. This is why I chose the following verses to dissect for a bit. Once we focus on them, we find a lot of wisdom in this situation.

John 11:39-40
39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
Starting with the first two words “Jesus said.” It is the positive against the negative. It is the hope when the hope is used all up. It is the answer, it is the alpha and the omega, and it is the author and the finisher of faith.

Like in Matthew 4:10
Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'

Like it says in Matthew 8:13
Jesus said …Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.

Like in John 11:25
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

Sometimes when things in our lives don’t seem to be as rosy as they should, even when things seem as though they are dead we should look for the “Jesus Said.”

After looking at what thus said the Lord, the next part is the “Take away the stone.” The stone represents the blockage to the doorway of the tomb. Jesus instructed them to take away things that are blocking the place where the dead is buried. Use your inner strength, and move the obstacle(s). Can Jesus work the miracle with the obstacle in the way, of course he can after all Jesus can do all things, but if he does you would not know what you can do. Jesus can tell you, you can see but you are the one who has to open your eyes and look. Jesus can tell you that you have the power to walk, but you are the one who has to put one foot in front of the other. Jesus can tell you to take away the stone, but you are the one who has to exercise faith and obedience.

Following after that is the part of Martha’s observation that Lazarus had been in the tomb four days and by now the situation stinks. This is actually a good observation, it is the reality, and it points out the obvious. It is what we all do; we give reasons not to move forward with the instructions. But what if everyone in the Bible did that:
-What if Moses said, I don’t want to cross the river because I can’t swim?
-What if Elisha said, I’d rather plow my parent’s field?
-What if David said, I don’t want to fight the giant because I’m too small?
-What if Daniel said, I don’t want to go into the lions den because I’m scared?
-What if Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego said, I don’t want to go into the fiery furnace because it is too hot?
-What if Joshua said, I’m tired of marching in circles?
-What if Joseph said, I don’t really want to get married?
-What if Jesus said, Martha you are right it does stink?

Sometimes the situations stink in our lives:
-It stinks when we loose our jobs and can’t seem to get ahead
-It stinks when we loose faith and courage
-It stinks when things are working the way they should
And we cover it up with these stones thinking that other people can’t smell the stink. However, doing this means we won’t be able to receive a breakthrough. Maybe Jesus wants us to uncover the stink. It may smell for a little while, but keep your focus on Jesus.

The next part, Jesus only repeated what he said. He wanted us to know, that “If you would only believe, you will see the glory of God?” If you stay obedient and stay in his word and push through all that rotten, stinking stuff, you will find out that that’s where your greatest miracle is, where the power is, and where the anointing that breaks the yokes is. That’s where your Lazarus is, and Jesus is saying that the Lazarus needs to come forth out of debt and depression, to come forth and live. But you got him blocked in while God wants to send resurrection power in your life.

And then there are those people who are bitter and angry over their Lazarus dying, they are still upset and holding onto their Lazarus in the tomb. But you need to push through all that, you need to run on home and see what the end is going to be. Stop holding your Lazarus in the tomb, roll the stone away and allow your Lazarus to come forth into life, into greatness, and into life changing encounters so that you may show forth the glory of your almighty God.

If you keep your Lazarus in the tomb, you will find that even if Jesus works a miracle in your life, no one will ever notice it because you kept it covered. You don’t want people to know what you are going through because you don’t want anyone to smell the stink. But if you keep the cover over it, it will all die in the tomb where it will stay buried and you will never be able to see some of God’s greatest miracles in your life.

Sometimes you have gotta just believe. You gotta dig down deep into the trenches of your soul and remove the stone. Remove the obstacles and believe. Jesus knows that we have good excuses, but believe anyway:
-Don’t be afraid to cross the river.
-Don’t be afraid to leave the plow in the field.
-Don’t be afraid to fight the giant even if you have to on your knees.
-Don’t be afraid to go into the lions den.
-Don’t be afraid to go into the fiery furnace even if it is seven times hotter.
-Don’t be afraid to march around in circles.
-Don’t be afraid to get married…to the one God ordained for you.
-Don’t be afraid of the stink.

When all else fails, Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. Stand in faith until the Lord prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies. Believe until your cup runneth over and surely goodness and mercy follows you all the days of your life…Believe in God anyway.

The Way, The Truth, and The Light

2009-04-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

Luke 24: 46-49

And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
Some may need to be reminded that every word in the Bible is important and here is no exception. In this instance we see the final words that are spoken by Christ who has risen from the dead and is about to return to heaven. He is explaining to the disciples why he had to die on the cross and what they are to do after he leaves them to return to his father in heaven. The scripture can be broken up into two sections:
-The explanation of why Christ had to do what he did

-The instructions of what the disciples had to do to carry on in their ministry.
This verse describes Christ as an understanding teacher who knows exactly what the disciples needed to hear at the time they needed to hear it. If we go to Luke 18: 32-34 it reads:

For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.

Jesus told the disciples what was going to happen so you would think they would have known, or understood, or even been prepared. But they weren’t, if you can imagine hearing someone but not really hearing what they are saying. It gives me renewed faith as a Sunday school teacher as some days some children come in with these glassy looks in their eyes and I know they aren’t receiving at that time. Sometimes I even read the Bible and I don’t understand it, but it still needs to be read because I know that the seed isn’t until an appointed time. This is why Jesus still spoke it to the disciples. He knew they wouldn’t understand but the seed was planted and the disciples finally did later understand. We know that from Luke 24:5-8:

And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words,

This tells me that we must hold onto our beliefs that this word is so powerful that even when speaking it to glassy eyed people that at the appointed time the word will come back to their remembrance. Keep reminding people, over and over again, keep following Christ’s instructions that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations.

Now that the disciples had understanding, the next step was to explain why he had to do what he had to do. In Luke 24:44 it reads;

And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which are written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

He knew that the disciples were puzzled and confused. He also knew that there could be a little bitterness there and also some resentment. When you witness wrong being done it does something to you. And Christ suffered a most horrifying death. He went through it but the disciples had to witness it and sometimes when you witness something that terrible, it is as if you are going through it as well. It takes awhile for your mind to recover and three days later it would still be fresh. You can imagine the various emotions they must have encountered through their grief. Sometimes when the police have to go in to view a crime scene after a murder has happened, something happens to their stomach and they have to vomit. It makes them angry at the perpetrators and they can get to the point where they want revenge. Jesus knew all of this and this is why he took the time to explain to the disciples so that their ministry would not be hindered by all these feelings.

You can’t have an effective ministry and hate the people whom you are trying to minister. His instructions needed to be very clear and this was the appointed time for the seed to be cultivated and the disciples to understand. This tells me that once seeds are planted, God will continue to cultivate the seed until that understanding comes forth.

People are crying out to hear the truth. And Jesus said in John 14:6 that he is "the way, the truth and the light." One example of this is Pilate in John 18:38 Pilate asked Jesus “What is truth?” It is a natural inclination to want to know. When they are looking for the truth, and sometimes they say it in different ways (the meaning of life, searching for themselves, etc.) they are actually crying out to hear from Jesus. They are trying to find out like Pilate, “What is truth?” And it is your job to keep telling them so that they can stop looking in the wrong places and find Jesus.

The last instruction from Jesus to the disciples was: "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high."

Wait on the Lord, when you go into preach the gospel you need help from the Holy Spirit. This power from on high insures that you "rightly divide the word of truth" as described in 2nd Timothy 2:15. If we are the light of the world, then we should make people hungry for the word. But if we are not the light of the world, we are considered false profits. The difference is, the Holy Spirit, the Word of God in us, and the truth that can be revealed through us.

As satan’s time is short on this earth, we also know that he will try to deceive more and more. We need to hold onto our beliefs and continue to do the work of the Lord as he instructed.

As I close, please be reminded of the truth in:
- “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
- "Repent you therefore, and be converted that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3:19).
- Repent and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2: 36-38).
- "With the heart man believeth unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Rom. 10: 9,10)
- If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Follow Jesus

2009-04-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

During Bible Study tonight, the greatest revelation came to me. It was almost as if the "Word" just jumped out of the pages and grabbed my attention. What I saw was in John chapter 6 but can also be found in (Mt 14:13-23; Mk 6:30-46; Lk 9:10-17; Jn 6:1-16). In this chapter it describes, in the well-known scriptures, how the lad donated five barley loaves and two fish to Jesus. Then Jesus blessed it and this meal fed the multitude of five thousand until they were full. Afterwards, they were able to gather up the remains which turned out to be twelve baskets full of food.

What jumped out at me was this, when the multitude followed Jesus it created a problem. The problem was that Jesus wanted to feed them. Jesus went to his disciples to see if they knew of a solution. More specifically, when Jesus spoke to Philip he asked him "From whence will we buy food so that these may eat?" It goes on to inform us that Jesus already knew the answer but he wanted to prove Philip. Apparently Philip knew what they had in treasury because his response was to provide Jesus with the amount of their reserved financial resources. It was evident that they didn't have enough. The second possible solution was to send the multitude away so that they could fend for themselves. The third solution was the five barley loaves and two fish offered by the lad. Jesus took the third and final solution offered and blessed it until it multiplied into more than enough.

It is amazing how the solution that Jesus chose to bless and honor was the least selfish of the solutions. It is easy to buy your way out of a problem. It is easy to send your problems away and hide from them. But how easy is it to make the sacrifice to give all you have to Jesus and demonstrate your faith in him to resolve the problem.

Bring all your problems to Jesus reminds me of the following refrain from the song "Yield not to temptation":

Ask the Savior to help you,
Comfort, strengthen and keep you;
He is willing to aid you,
He will carry you through.

In this situation you can easily see that money is not the solution, food is not the solution, and giving up is definitely not the solution. The solution was Jesus the whole time.

Trained for Such Times as These

2008-11-17T07:26:00.000-08:00

In this economy, we often wonder how we will make it; bills are piling up, foreclosures in abundance, food prices skyrocketing, and millions of people are losing their jobs or can't find one. How do we find peace in the midst of these storms? I often reflect about the future by referencing the Bible or just thinking about God. As I sit here, doing just that, I am reminded about Joseph. The events surrounding Joseph's life are prophetically speaking to us today that WE CAN MAKE IT!

The Bible explains that God revealed to the King of Egypt several dreams that he did not understand. Joseph, a prisoner at that time, was known for interpreting dreams. It was revealed to the king that the dreams meant that there'd be seven years of more than enough and, then immediately following, seven years of lack. Because Joseph was able to interpret this dream, he was placed in charge of the process that would help Egypt negotiate through these trying times. His plan, get Egypt to save and store up food, then resell to those who did not.

It seems to be poetic justice that Joseph would have this job after being sold into slavery, incorrectly accused of violating his master's wife, and thrown in jail for a number of years. But my feeling is this was how Joseph was "trained" for this new responsibility. Unfair, maybe, but God knows just how much we can take. After Joseph went through the stress of the situation, he became stronger, wiser and adept in his ability to lead people through the storms.

How do you find Peace in the midst of these storms? First, look to God for guidance. Second, use this time to become stronger, wiser and more adept at handling these lean times. Third, continue to know that you are being prepared to lead others who have not been prepared. Just remember to be trainable, flexible, and less prone to complaining. God be with you as you "Go get 'em."

The Message

2008-10-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

In the Bible, Jeremiah was the profit that was ordained by God from his mother's womb. Jeremiah did just what God ordained him to do, he related the messages. His messages were of hope to the ones who heeded his message or that of sadness and anger to those who wished to ignore it. It was difficult sometimes. People don't always want to hear what God has to say. Excuses that have plagued my ears have also plagued Jeremiah's ears and God's ears before that. But that does not negate the message or the fact that we still have to be told "What thus said the Lord."

Jeremiah 20:9-11 states "Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it."

I can identify with Jeremiah's frustration in this scripture. He basically is saying that he is tired of telling the poeple what would happen should they continue not to listen to the Lord. Not because he was pretentious, but because he had to witness the results as the truth took place. An example would be a friend warning another friend of the consequences of skipping school; when the warning is not heeded a true friend would not relish. A true friend would almost feel as if they should have done more. The messenger actually has a constant struggle with the need to be protective while, at the same time, powerless to protect.

The messenger has to be willing but can be intimidated by those to whom the message needs to be heard. Their path is not always painless, convenient, or conventional. Seemingly as one side of the path could be to witness the unglamerousness of the downfall, the otherside is to identify with those that are growing and maturing in the Word of the Lord. In either event, we are part of what this world is for a reason. God does have a plan; God has The Plan for our lives and every part of this plan is for the good of His people.

Messengers have to realize that, technically, God is not someone with whom you'd disrespectfully argue. If you prefer to fight the battle on your own, God will respect that. You also have the ability to exercise your right to say, "No." God respects that as well. The most famous example of this is in the book of Jonah. Remember when God sent him to speak to the city of Nineveh and Jonah decided to go to Tarshish instead? Among other consequences, Jonah ultimately ended up in the belly of a huge fish. By saying "No" Jonah inherently chose a fate of vulnerability and exposure to the ailments that would have been withheld from him had he said "Yes" to God.

Saying "Yes" to God means that you have to:
-rearrange a few priorities.
-not pay attention to lifes non-essentials.
-keep focused on the mission.
-be ready to suppress a negative outlook and,
-stay in complete FAITH!

Jonah's choice was to take the road that caused him to fight a few battles that he may have avoided. The weapons Jonah chose were useless in combat and made him defenseless against the enemy. He was fighting this battle without anointing. Instead of getting stronger and wiser, Jonah was allowing the enemy to devalue his worth and destroy his life. Jonah was in so much turmoil that he neglected the spiritual battle that God really needed him to fight. What was worse, Jonah dragged other innocent victims down with him.

However God, with his infinite patience, was ready to wait until Jonah's priorities were back in line with God's will. Then God's mercy steps in. It took Jonah three days until he was able to demonstrate to God, Not my will but thine will be done.

Jonah experienced the same message of sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. God taught Jonah that love of others should come before love of self. In the end God always teaches us to be carriers of His message of Love.

The Hannah Philosophy

2008-09-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

While I do not profess to be "all knowing." I do know someone who is! I frequently refer to His writings for motivation and inspiration. The more I read the Bible, the more I find subject matter that completely fascinates me; I am really excited about the wisdom that the Holy Spirit provides. One example can be found in the first chapter of the book of 1^st Samuel.

Hannah is an awesome woman. As I try to understand her, I see something in the Word and in the people that surround her. First, her husband Elkanah who states to Hannah "why weepest thou? And why eatest thou not? And why is thy heart grieved? Am I not better to thee than ten sons?" Second, you have her priest Eli that witnesses her prayer and misinterprets her conversation with the Lord as her being drunk. And third, is Elkanah's other wife Peninnah who serves as Hannah's adversary. The Bible states that Hannah "was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore."

This was similar to a movie depicting a true story of a police officer who was determined to catch a murderer in a case that lasted over 19 years. Their focus was trying to solve the case by looking for a killer that fit a certain profile. The murderer eluded him for so long because the police were looking in the wrong direction.

Just like the people around and closest to Hannah. They thought that because she had things or people at her disposal that she was supposed to fit a "happy" profile. They were looking at the surface at what looked to be a simple issue. They didn’t see on the inside, deep and underneath the surface, was a deeply rooted problem that affected everyone around her and was so severe that no one could see or even correctly identify it.

The people around her suggested everything that they could think of to help or aggravate the situation. Hannah cried out and whatever she wanted to fix the symptoms could be given to her at a moment’s notice. Her husband offered her a “worthy portion” but money could not solve this problem. She had food at her disposal but food could not solve this problem. But these were quick fixes and quick fixes only mask the issue. The problem was so severe that it became a weakness to Hannah which was why Peninnah could serve as her adversary and Eli could misdiagnose the issue.

Hannah; however, refused to give up which takes a huge amount of courage and strength. She recognized that she had this hurt that touched her soul and wreaked havoc on her relationships. There is only one source that can fix this type of problem. And Hannah chose to go to this source. She asked the Lord to remember her and when her countenance was no longer sad and she could truly worship the Lord, she was remembered and conceived Samuel.

Some of us are just like Hannah. We keep being influenced to try these quick fixes like alcohol, drugs, anger, food, shopping, and etc. The truth is those quick fixes do not do anything to help us. We must stop focusing on the superficial things and target the real murderer of our souls. This is a murderer that forces us to dwell in negative bitterness and keep us from living the life that God ordained for us to live. Our hearts are grieved and heavy like a weight. These problems arise at times when we should be moving forward and letting go but this weight keeps holding us back. Like Hannah, we live with this weight of distrust that keeps us from enjoying the simple things in life. Before Hannah poured out her heart to the Lord, she couldn’t enjoy eating. She couldn’t enjoy her husband’s other children. Hannah couldn’t even enjoy her husband. But this changed that day that she poured out her soul to the Lord.

I pray that you develop a prayer life like Hannah. I pray that the Lord remembers you!

PARIS

2008-08-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

It has occurred to me that I never gave an update on my first international travel experience in Paris, France.

As I mentioned before, my goal was to be led by the Holy Spirit. There were many opportunities for me, but I needed to remember that I was there on behalf of the Lord. When you are led by the Holy Spirit, there is one thing that you must remember. That you have to make sacrifices!

On the road to La Basilique du Sacré Coeur de Montmartre I found there were many distractions that may have resulted in me neglecting my purpose. First, was curtailing my affinity for the amazing souviner and reasonable shops long enough to get pointed in the right direction. Second, reducing the natural awestruck response to the many sights and sounds. Third, minimizing my need to complain about walking up the countless stairs as hot as it was. Other distractions could be mentioned as well. The entire experience showed me that this place could be a metaphor for life.

Many goals are left undetermined as many people don't even care. Many goals are left undiscovered as many people are lost on the way. Many goals are left unachieved as many people trade their investment resources for the first item they lay their eyes on. Many goals are left unmet as the challenges prove too hard to overcome. And this is why we celebrate those few who actually do make sacrifices thus obtaining their goals.

2008-07-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

The most creative and sound advice that I was given was on a golf course. I was playing with a group of people who seemed nice enough. The goal was to keep the ball moving forward, indicative of the relaxed no pressure atmosphere. That still didn't keep me from "talking trash." As I was mentally teeing up, I saw myself swinging perfectly, the ball was fully poised to take immaculate flight. I had no problem sharing this with the rest of the players.

I commented on another player's stroke. Meaning to be complimentary, I told her that the clubs she as using must have improved her game somehow. I didn't realize until later that this would become an issue. The next round, I was allowed tee up. My mind was like a Tiger and my execution; however, was not even remotely similar. The player of whom I was "complimentary" told me to try again but she told me this time to use one of her clubs. At this I was completely thrilled and shortly thereafter disappointed when my execution still left a lot to be desired. As we began picking up after ourselves, I heard her say something like "it definitely is not the clubs that make you a better player."

As the lightbulb went off in my head, I started to smile because I realized that she not only taught me how to be a better player but a better person as well.

Headed to Paris

2008-06-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

Next week I will be headed to Paris, France. Preparing for the unexpected while waiting in anticipation is a very interesting combination of emotions. I have gone over detail after detail: using my brand new passport for the first time, exchanging USD into EURO, where to create the most amazing memories and how to navigate using my limited French.

This should come as no surprise but my true goal is to make this a Spiritual retreat and I believe that my purpose will unfold as I am led by the Holy Spirit. I do know that I want to visit the Basilica de Monmartre to pray. I have been reading about Saint Francis whose words “My sister birds, you owe much to God, and you must always and in everyplace give praise to Him; for He has given you freedom to wing through the sky and He has clothed you…you neither sow nor reap, and God feeds you and gives you rivers and fountains for your thirst, and mountains and valleys for shelter, and tall trees for your nests. And although you neither know how to spin or weave, God dresses you and your children, for the Creator loves you greatly and He blesses you abundantly. Therefore… always seek to praise God.” and life give me great inspiration.

It is said that when he said this statement, he was actually preaching to birds. Even more astounding, was that the birds surrounded him as they appeared to be listening!

I will go and be led by the Holy Spirit.

More to come, gotta go pack.

Appreciative to Kind Hearted People

2008-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hello World...and welcome to my blog.

About me:
I am an Evangelist. That means I preach the gospel as led by the Holy Spirit.

My ministry:
Leads me to reflect and to write, a lot! My mission is to share, as you read it is my hope that you will be inspired.

I do have a daughter and years ago I sent her to California to visit my sister who was desparately homesick. She was flying for the first time and as an unaccompanied minor. This placed a huge amount of stress on me nevertheless we all overcame. As usual, for any mother, there were millions of details for which were accounted and due to lack of experience many details were also unaccounted.

One such minor detail is that I neglected to provide cash for the plane ride. I'd provided her snacks, reading material, things to occupy her time, etc. I knew that the plane also provided a meal. It never occurred to me that cash would be needed during the plane ride. I didn't even have the foresight to know that a movie would be offered. My daughter, as with many elementary school students, preferred being entertained by the in flight movie. Except that movie could only be heard by using the headphones that are only conveniently provided by the airline staff at a price of $5. Because of a kind hearted stranger, my daughter was able to enjoy the movie. I was thankful to God who had placed her on the same flight as this stranger who dug into her heart to donate a set of headphones to my daughter so that she could watch the movie. So to anyone who has ever given a young girl the chance to see a movie on a plane, Thank you!

Even now that I think of this story, it makes me smile to know that a stranger existed and was able to provide my daughter just a little happiness for only $5. I hope this blog serves a similar purpose.