The Connect Group of which I am a part just finished reading one of Hugh Ross's recent books called Why the Universe Is the Way It Is. You may or may not agree with everything he says (like for example, the debate between young earth and ancient earth theorists), but this volume delivers on giving us reasons to believe from a scientist's point of view.
This apologetic argues for a creator, the uncaused cause, who initiated the singularity we read about in Genesis 1. Those who study the origins of the universe in the scientific community have reached the conclusion that the universe has a beginning. (No surprise to creationists of course.) There was something or someone outside of the cosmos that began this process in what they call the Big Bang.
This has enormous significance to those of us who believe in miracles. If that One initiated the universe in what could easily be called a miracle of creation, why cannot that same One intervene within his creation to perform another miracle by superseding the laws of physics within the time and space continuum. The Virgin Birth, the Resurrection, Ascension, etc. are not difficult for the one who created something out of nothing. Turning water into wine, multiplying bread and fish to feed 4 or 5 thousand people, healing blind eyes, and raising the dead don't seem to far fetched in comparison to the creation of the universe. If he can do all of these, why could He not also accomplish the miraculous among us today?
The next time you have the opportunity on a clear night, take another look at the stars in the sky. Let your mind embrace the wonder of what God has done. Be in awe of the One who said, "Let there be light" and it was done. What an indescribable, incredible God we serve!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Gratitude-RGE
This weekend was marked with the celebration of Palm Sunday, when believers around the world are reminded of Jesus entry into Jerusalem offering himself as the King of Israel. Knowing this King is the greatest of all blessings and calls for the highest of praise to our King. In the midst of the praise and thanksgiving, I was reminded of three additional blessings. They were unexpected, for my mind was preoccupied by what are more noble reasons to rejoice; salvation, redemption, the atonement, justification, and the Lordship of Christ. Yet, I felt overwhelmed with thanksgiving at three amazing blessings.
1. Rain - The simple fact that rain falls from the sky on the just and the unjust speaks of the incredible grace of God to us all. Normally, blue skies and the warmth of the summer sun are my preferences. But without the rain, too much of a good thing can bring drought and famine. Rain changes that and brings life and vitality to the ground. I am grateful for rain.
2. Grass - I don't like to mow it, but someone must do the job. Grass demands the opportunity of pushing its way up through the earth. Gravel, pavement, just about anything eventually gives way to the buried seed as it reaches toward the sky. Simple yet profound, grass may be pretty as a well manicured lawn, but it serves a greater purpose. In fact, grass is a primary beginning link in the food chain. Without grass, the animal life on this planet would not last long. It provides a basic necessity for the existence of so much of life.
3. Earthworms - These little creatures are usually unseen, but they provide an amazingly indispensable service in softening the earth by tunneling under the surface. Some use worms to catch fish. They are also beneficial for the ground's nutrient value through their digestive processes. Unseen, unnoticed, and usually thought of as unimportant, they simply do what they do.
Gratitude springs from an awareness of God's gifts. Often we are recipients of his grace without our being aware of his gifts to us. These three little items may seem unimportant, but indeed, they are vital to our very existence. Rain, grass, and earthworms may not be at the top of your list of items to appreciate, but they do represent God's grace to us, if we recognize them or not. May God give us hearts to appreciate His bountiful gifts.
1. Rain - The simple fact that rain falls from the sky on the just and the unjust speaks of the incredible grace of God to us all. Normally, blue skies and the warmth of the summer sun are my preferences. But without the rain, too much of a good thing can bring drought and famine. Rain changes that and brings life and vitality to the ground. I am grateful for rain.
2. Grass - I don't like to mow it, but someone must do the job. Grass demands the opportunity of pushing its way up through the earth. Gravel, pavement, just about anything eventually gives way to the buried seed as it reaches toward the sky. Simple yet profound, grass may be pretty as a well manicured lawn, but it serves a greater purpose. In fact, grass is a primary beginning link in the food chain. Without grass, the animal life on this planet would not last long. It provides a basic necessity for the existence of so much of life.
3. Earthworms - These little creatures are usually unseen, but they provide an amazingly indispensable service in softening the earth by tunneling under the surface. Some use worms to catch fish. They are also beneficial for the ground's nutrient value through their digestive processes. Unseen, unnoticed, and usually thought of as unimportant, they simply do what they do.
Gratitude springs from an awareness of God's gifts. Often we are recipients of his grace without our being aware of his gifts to us. These three little items may seem unimportant, but indeed, they are vital to our very existence. Rain, grass, and earthworms may not be at the top of your list of items to appreciate, but they do represent God's grace to us, if we recognize them or not. May God give us hearts to appreciate His bountiful gifts.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Prophetic Warnings
Some have inquired regarding the recent prophetic warning from David Wilkerson. Several thoughts may be appropriate. I will not quote his statements in this blog since they have been distributed widely already. You may Google a search if you want the direct references.
1. I have long held David Wilkerson with high respect. I believe him to be a man of God who conducts himself with integrity and godliness. Yes, I do view him as a modern day prophet.
2. That being said, today's prophets are not to be viewed with the same degree of authority or inerrancy as the prophets or apostles in Scripture. They may be anointed but still fallible. Therefore, their words, including Bro. Wilkerson's, must be weighted in light of Scripture and tested for accuracy.
3. Bro. Wilkerson does not give any dates as to when the coming disaster will occur. Those who have followed his ministry for a long period of time are aware that he has previously given similar words of warning.
4. The prophet calls people to repentance. Action should be directed toward righteous living and turning from sin. The practical word was personal for him; i.e., having a month supply of water, non-perishable foods and toiletries on hand because when this occurs the grocery stores shelves will rapidly empty out. To me that sounds like a wise course of action under most circumstances. Many live from paycheck to paycheck with little room for reserves. (As a child, I remember my mother canning green beans, peaches, corn and many other items for the cold winter months. Not a bad idea.) Notice Bro. Wilkerson does not tell believers to flee to the mountains or any such thing. Panic is not called for, rather trust in the Lord and good common sense.
5. It would be unwise to focus the people of your congregation on the fear of catastrophe and create a panic. The times are uncertain and many are fearful. Believers need not be fearful to be circumspect. How would hoarding food, water and other essentials glorify God? There is no way to collect enough of those essentials to care for everyone in your community. How would you decide who to help and who not to help if the disaster does occur? Also, remember, a day with the Lord is as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day.
6. The pastoral role is to encourage people to walk with Christ, knowing the days are evil. There will continue to be wars and rumors of wars, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, etc. and believers need to be reminded of that reality. As Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled!"
7. We believe in the eminent return of our Lord. Let us watch and pray, looking up, for our redemption draws nigh!
1. I have long held David Wilkerson with high respect. I believe him to be a man of God who conducts himself with integrity and godliness. Yes, I do view him as a modern day prophet.
2. That being said, today's prophets are not to be viewed with the same degree of authority or inerrancy as the prophets or apostles in Scripture. They may be anointed but still fallible. Therefore, their words, including Bro. Wilkerson's, must be weighted in light of Scripture and tested for accuracy.
3. Bro. Wilkerson does not give any dates as to when the coming disaster will occur. Those who have followed his ministry for a long period of time are aware that he has previously given similar words of warning.
4. The prophet calls people to repentance. Action should be directed toward righteous living and turning from sin. The practical word was personal for him; i.e., having a month supply of water, non-perishable foods and toiletries on hand because when this occurs the grocery stores shelves will rapidly empty out. To me that sounds like a wise course of action under most circumstances. Many live from paycheck to paycheck with little room for reserves. (As a child, I remember my mother canning green beans, peaches, corn and many other items for the cold winter months. Not a bad idea.) Notice Bro. Wilkerson does not tell believers to flee to the mountains or any such thing. Panic is not called for, rather trust in the Lord and good common sense.
5. It would be unwise to focus the people of your congregation on the fear of catastrophe and create a panic. The times are uncertain and many are fearful. Believers need not be fearful to be circumspect. How would hoarding food, water and other essentials glorify God? There is no way to collect enough of those essentials to care for everyone in your community. How would you decide who to help and who not to help if the disaster does occur? Also, remember, a day with the Lord is as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day.
6. The pastoral role is to encourage people to walk with Christ, knowing the days are evil. There will continue to be wars and rumors of wars, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, etc. and believers need to be reminded of that reality. As Jesus said, "Let not your heart be troubled!"
7. We believe in the eminent return of our Lord. Let us watch and pray, looking up, for our redemption draws nigh!
Friday, February 27, 2009
BLESSINGS
Navigating the journey of life and ministry would be so much more difficult and not nearly as satisfying without the blessings the Lord gives along the path. The blessings I am thinking about today are the women He has placed in my life.
About ten years ago my mother went to be with the Lord. What a loss! I still wish I could call and talk with her. It is not the loss of her great baking skills that I miss the most, although her red velvet cake was the best! Just to hear her voice and for her to remind me she is praying for me would be so good! Next, I am thinking of my mother-in-law. Earlier this week she called and wanted to bring dinner over for Marjie and me. We had a feast! She is awesome! Probably the greatest evangelist (yes I did say evangelist) I have ever know. She never preached in a crusade, but her heart beats for friends who have yet to meet Jesus personally. Then there is my granddaughters, all three of them! They are the cutest, smartest, most fun little darlings I can imagine! Special is an understatement. They melt me! Then I think of my daughter and daughter-in-law. These two young women are incredible women of God who are great mothers and wives. How I got so "lucky" to have them as a part of my family is beyond my wildest wish. Finally, there is my wife Marjie, the primary reason my offspring turned out so incredibly wonderful. There are no words that express how she has enriched my life. She exemplifies the woman depicted in the classic passage, Proverbs 31.
Many other people have significantly influenced me through the years, but these members of the fairer gender bring such joy, pleasure, fulfillment, and focus that it just feels to me like I should tell some body (That is another truth from Proverbs 31, "the city gates" issue). Perhaps you have a similar testimony. I often thank God for the things he has done for me, but I need to thank the people he has placed in my life that have blessed me. Maybe there are some ladies you would want to express gratitude to as well. I often fail to express my appreciation to most of those who are such a support to me, but none as much as these ladies. Without them, where would I be? Thank you, Lord, for godly women who make such a profound difference in this world.
About ten years ago my mother went to be with the Lord. What a loss! I still wish I could call and talk with her. It is not the loss of her great baking skills that I miss the most, although her red velvet cake was the best! Just to hear her voice and for her to remind me she is praying for me would be so good! Next, I am thinking of my mother-in-law. Earlier this week she called and wanted to bring dinner over for Marjie and me. We had a feast! She is awesome! Probably the greatest evangelist (yes I did say evangelist) I have ever know. She never preached in a crusade, but her heart beats for friends who have yet to meet Jesus personally. Then there is my granddaughters, all three of them! They are the cutest, smartest, most fun little darlings I can imagine! Special is an understatement. They melt me! Then I think of my daughter and daughter-in-law. These two young women are incredible women of God who are great mothers and wives. How I got so "lucky" to have them as a part of my family is beyond my wildest wish. Finally, there is my wife Marjie, the primary reason my offspring turned out so incredibly wonderful. There are no words that express how she has enriched my life. She exemplifies the woman depicted in the classic passage, Proverbs 31.
Many other people have significantly influenced me through the years, but these members of the fairer gender bring such joy, pleasure, fulfillment, and focus that it just feels to me like I should tell some body (That is another truth from Proverbs 31, "the city gates" issue). Perhaps you have a similar testimony. I often thank God for the things he has done for me, but I need to thank the people he has placed in my life that have blessed me. Maybe there are some ladies you would want to express gratitude to as well. I often fail to express my appreciation to most of those who are such a support to me, but none as much as these ladies. Without them, where would I be? Thank you, Lord, for godly women who make such a profound difference in this world.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Language
The language we use expresses the condition of our heart. The writer of Scripture under the anointing of the Spirit states, "From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Recently, someone used a four letter word in conversation then followed that up with, "Pardon my French." Obviously, the word wasn't French. What was his heart's condition? I don't know, but something was wrong.
The media, including news, film, and entertainment, often use language that at one time was not allowed on the air ways. The standard continues to change with some networks pushing the envelop as far as they can. As followers of Jesus, it is easy to become callous to what we hear and barely take notice. When otherwise family entertainment takes on this type of language, one wonders if the old timers who preached against TV weren't right after all.
What has become even more troublesome to me is the trend by some ministers to use language for effect that will shock or startle the audience, or make them sound more hip or relevant. The use of the four letter words, you know what they are, can sometimes get a response from listeners, especially the younger generation who may be more influenced by Hollywood than by the Word of God. While I have never heard of a pastor loosing credentials because of the use of fowl language, I have heard pastors loose credibility because of an improper use of language.
We are constantly bombarded by images and ideas from the world in which we live. The Scripture, not culture, must be our source of faith and practice. God's Word still sets the standard. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their need, that it may benefit those who listen" Ephesians 4:29.
The media, including news, film, and entertainment, often use language that at one time was not allowed on the air ways. The standard continues to change with some networks pushing the envelop as far as they can. As followers of Jesus, it is easy to become callous to what we hear and barely take notice. When otherwise family entertainment takes on this type of language, one wonders if the old timers who preached against TV weren't right after all.
What has become even more troublesome to me is the trend by some ministers to use language for effect that will shock or startle the audience, or make them sound more hip or relevant. The use of the four letter words, you know what they are, can sometimes get a response from listeners, especially the younger generation who may be more influenced by Hollywood than by the Word of God. While I have never heard of a pastor loosing credentials because of the use of fowl language, I have heard pastors loose credibility because of an improper use of language.
We are constantly bombarded by images and ideas from the world in which we live. The Scripture, not culture, must be our source of faith and practice. God's Word still sets the standard. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their need, that it may benefit those who listen" Ephesians 4:29.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Trust
Two names in the news struck me today as a contrast in character; Sully and A-Rod. Now, understand that I do not have personal knowledge of either of these gentlemen, however, they present a tremendous contrast for people in our nation. Sully, the reluctant hero, just did his job and saved over a hundred lives in the process. His expression to the media credited his team members with hero status, not him. One report indicated the co-pilot stated to the rescue workers, "We only got these people into the water (the Hudson), while you got them out," giving credit to the rescue workers of New York City. America looks up to these five crew members with admiration and respect. We may look at the people in the cockpit of the plane we fly in a little differently the next time we go to fly.
A-Rod was "young and naive" according to his statement in an interview. He wanted to be the best player of all time, and now... Well, all his accomplishments are suspect. He may be a great player and have set many records, but he will never be looked at in the same way again. The would-be hero and roll model has lost the respect of his fans and most of the sports world. How tragic! He may be a wonderful individual, but the shame will be a part of his record.
We that are involved in ministry were once looked on with respect and admiration. People looked to their pastor as a man of God who was worthy of respect and loyalty. From our own circle have come Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, and most recently, Ted Haggard. The lack of trust that results from such high profile individuals is disturbing to say the least. To some, we will be forever tarnished because of what in some people's minds is the association that exists between us and them. I am very happy to leave the judgement of others to the Lord, but we still must deal with the repercussions of other's actions.
When we loose the trust of those to whom we are called to serve, our ministry to them is over. We must live up to what we preach. We have a responsibility to act and live in such a way as to be an example to the flock. Some, even behind the pulpit, wish to be great and attain notoriety. Perhaps we should re-evaluate whether we are closer to A-Rod or Sully in our ambition and quest for greatness. Above all, let us be trust-worthy and honor our Lord so that our testimony will be pleasing to the Lord and we will honor Him.
A-Rod was "young and naive" according to his statement in an interview. He wanted to be the best player of all time, and now... Well, all his accomplishments are suspect. He may be a great player and have set many records, but he will never be looked at in the same way again. The would-be hero and roll model has lost the respect of his fans and most of the sports world. How tragic! He may be a wonderful individual, but the shame will be a part of his record.
We that are involved in ministry were once looked on with respect and admiration. People looked to their pastor as a man of God who was worthy of respect and loyalty. From our own circle have come Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, and most recently, Ted Haggard. The lack of trust that results from such high profile individuals is disturbing to say the least. To some, we will be forever tarnished because of what in some people's minds is the association that exists between us and them. I am very happy to leave the judgement of others to the Lord, but we still must deal with the repercussions of other's actions.
When we loose the trust of those to whom we are called to serve, our ministry to them is over. We must live up to what we preach. We have a responsibility to act and live in such a way as to be an example to the flock. Some, even behind the pulpit, wish to be great and attain notoriety. Perhaps we should re-evaluate whether we are closer to A-Rod or Sully in our ambition and quest for greatness. Above all, let us be trust-worthy and honor our Lord so that our testimony will be pleasing to the Lord and we will honor Him.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
The Big Day
Tomorrow is the day many have been looking forward to for a long time. Many hours have been spent in preparation. The opposition has been evaluated from every vantage point imaginable. The strengths and weaknesses have been scrutinized so that there will be few if any surprises. The defense is ready to go. The offense knows what to expect and how to make their plays. The plan is in place. The warriors are ready. The Big Day is almost here. Many have speculated about the potential outcome. The countdown has begun.
Tomorrow will be a day of victory for some and defeat for others. Which side will you be on? You see, lives are in the balance. Their eternal destiny is at stake. Every Sunday is Superbowl Sunday because it pits the forces of the Kingdom against the minions of hell. The preparation is the key. Just showing up to "do your things" is not acceptable. Too much is at stake! A prayer-less, careless, lethargic preacher would be like the coach leading his team into the Superbowl without any thought of a game plan for how the game should be played. The eternal risks are too great for that to happen. Individual's destiny will be determined by the results of what occurs on this most important day of the week.
The Steelers and the Cardinals will do battle on the field in Tampa Bay. They do it for the pride of the ring they hope to wear, the trophy they want to receive, and the paycheck to be enjoyed. We prepare for Sunday knowing that so much more is at stake. How can we approach this day without the overwhelming sense of the importance of what we are preparing to accomplish? Get ready! The Big Day is almost here. Let's do battle for the Lord!
Tomorrow will be a day of victory for some and defeat for others. Which side will you be on? You see, lives are in the balance. Their eternal destiny is at stake. Every Sunday is Superbowl Sunday because it pits the forces of the Kingdom against the minions of hell. The preparation is the key. Just showing up to "do your things" is not acceptable. Too much is at stake! A prayer-less, careless, lethargic preacher would be like the coach leading his team into the Superbowl without any thought of a game plan for how the game should be played. The eternal risks are too great for that to happen. Individual's destiny will be determined by the results of what occurs on this most important day of the week.
The Steelers and the Cardinals will do battle on the field in Tampa Bay. They do it for the pride of the ring they hope to wear, the trophy they want to receive, and the paycheck to be enjoyed. We prepare for Sunday knowing that so much more is at stake. How can we approach this day without the overwhelming sense of the importance of what we are preparing to accomplish? Get ready! The Big Day is almost here. Let's do battle for the Lord!
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