coyote rambling

And They Were Mine

2009-10-29T17:42:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I've written anything here. Life has been unusual, to say the least. Haven't felt the urge to write what isn't read, so I took most of the year off. Lately however, I've felt the need to connect and communicate with whomever might be out there looking, even randomly.

Reading my Bible the other day I came across a story in Ezekiel that caused me to pause and think. In chapter 2 of the book, Ezekiel tells of two sisters from the same mother. It was anything but a pleasant story. The sisters are identified as Samaria and Jerusalem, the two capitals of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, respectively. It describes their lewd behavior in terms that make you want to shield your kids eyes from the words. Their fall into their lascivious lifestyle is well recounted as is the judgment leveled against them.

But this is not what caught my eye. What spoke to me strongly was the Lord's declaration in verse 4, "and they were mine." It pulled at this father's heart. I could at one moment feel what the Lord our God felt as He spoke of them being alienated from His mind.

I thought about what that must feel like. A father raises his daughters to be fair, virtuous women. If he doesn't, he certainly should. In raising them proper there should be a love reciprocated back to the father as well as reverence for those things that he holds dear and sacred. That nation that God had chosen for Himself, to be a people through which He could reach all humanity, rejected Him and turned toward other gods. It broke His heart. They put Him out of their mind long before He responded in kind. They wouldn't stop for a moment to consider what they were doing to Him.

Ultimately judgment came upon them. Destruction, heartache, pain and death. Total description would take longer than I care to write and you can read it for yourself. I have only wanted to put across the feeling I experienced upon reading this story again.

"And they were mine" has a tragic, seemingly desperate claim to former relationship. A father's longing surrender to his greatest loss.

He loves us beyond reason. Let's be true and faithful to Him.

Reading Between The Lines

2009-01-26T11:12:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I had occasion to give my testimony to the congregation of our new church. There are several in the church that are currently needing hope that they too can live in freedom. So, I offer to you, some of what I offered to them.

Not every story starts with "Once upon a time", and unfortunately not many stories end with "and they lived happily ever after." But it's almost guaranteed that every story contains the epic drama of the struggle between the supernatural forces of good and evil and the weak human will and spirit.

Children's fables portray the good angel on the right shoulder and the evil demon on the left. Between the two lies the mind of the human. The cartoons never really reveal the intensity of the battle, but rather almost jokingly show the propensity of the person to listen to the dark voice of temptation. In reality the yielding to temptation generally has a painful cost associated with it. A simple look around your circle of friends will prove the veracity of my claim.

Shortly after leaving home to join the military in 1973, I began to smoke cigarettes. I enjoyed them until I tried to quit. I used to joke about how easy it was to quit, saying "I do it all the time." But deep down, I knew I couldn't do it on my own. Some people quit cold turkey, as my parents did, but I wasn't that strong. Very soon after graduating from boot camp I was transferred to my training station in Georgia. It was there that I began to smoke pot. The digression from there into other drugs was swift.

A couple of years later, while still in the military, and still using drugs, I married my beautiful wife. We had anything but a beautiful life. (How love grew from there, could only attest to the grace of God.) Within a couple of months of being Honorably Discharged from the Navy, my wife let me know that she was leaving me. I couldn't say I blamed her, but I didn't want to believe my ears. I was so far from the man I promised to be that I'm sure she saw no hope of this marriage working out. Still I loved her and felt as if my heart was ripped out of my chest. I cried often over the next several weeks. Then I simply decided that drugs would ease the pain. Anything I could get my hands on went into my body.

After several months of separation we decided to try again. I felt I had a chance to win her back, but I was seriously addicted to drugs. I could not consider myself an alcoholic because I didn't drink unless I wanted to get drunk. I usually saved that for the weekend, which typically was party time. Unfortunately, that was also when I spent the most time with my wife and our baby daughter. It was on a weekend getaway party when my wife asked me to go easy on the drugs and alcohol. In a fit of anger, I shoved her to the ground. Needless to say Separation #2 followed immediately. Thankfully it was a brief separation and soon I was trying again to prove I could be the man I needed to be, but was seriously hindered by drug and alcohol use. It was not long and again we were speaking often of divorce.

One day, to my surprise, she came home stating that she wanted to attend a Bible Study with some friends from work. I vehemently objected saying that I "did not want that junk in my house." She prevailed and in a few weeks I asked if I could go with her. Her reply was a simple, "that's what we've been praying for." The same week that I attended my first Bible Study lesson I accepted their invitation and went to their church. There was no preaching that night, but beyond any doubt the presence of the Lord was there. They gave an altar call, something I had never heard of, and I went forward.

It was at that moment that I first felt that I had a hope in Jesus. After spending a little time at the altar, God poured out His Spirit upon me, filling me with the Pentecostal experience of speaking in tongues as He baptized me with His power, His presence, and His Spirit. My wife was "freaked out" by what was happening and ran out of the church, locking herself in our car. When her friend came to get her to watch what was happening to me she said, "No, this is weird, you're weird, Gary's going to change and I'm not!" When I finally got to the car she repeated her fear to me that Jesus was going to change me, but not her. I could do little to alleviate her panic so I did something I hadn't done in years. I prayed for her.

A few weeks later after trying other churches she wanted to go back to the Pentecostal church and be baptized. It was that night that she and I were buried in the Name of Jesus Christ. She received the baptism of the Holy Ghost as she came up out of the water. Our life together could only get better, and it did.

I still had some friends that were using drugs and alcohol and they would come around trying to keep us in the party mode. I didn't know any better, so I indulged a couple of times until conviction set in. God delivered me from drugs in my driveway. I was pretty much able to walk away from alcohol on my own and totally gave it up at my wife's urging on New Years Eve, 1980. Smoking was more difficult and took perhaps several months. When a friend asked how I was doing with my efforts to quit I told her, "OK." Then I got in the car, started to drive away and lit a cigarette. My wife looked at me and asked what I was doing. As I turned on to the street I took the cigarettes out of my pocket, threw them on the lawn of church and asked, "God if you'll help me, I'll never smoke anything again." He did, and I haven't.

Well, several months became one year, which soon became ten. I wrote in an earlier blog about overhearing my wife speaking on the phone and describing herself as having "a fairy tale life." Since I knew that I had ogre-like tendencies she must have been talking about Jesus being her prince, but I appreciated the comment anyway. Ten years has now become more than 28 years. Still clean, still sober, still in love with my bride and our savior. Some stories do have a happy ending. I have confidence that this one will. And we will live happily forever after this life.

I hope that my words will bring hope to you or someone you may know that is bound by weakness to drugs, alcohol, smoking or any other vice. Generally, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. We need help. We need a savior. We all need Jesus.

He's still a deliverer. Just give Him a chance.

Brothers And Sisters, It's A Family Matter

2008-12-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

Well, the holiday season is, and has been, upon us. Much will be written about the season and what it means to various ones of us. This blog will be much like those.

We understand that the true meaning of the season is to remember God's greatest gift to us, His son Jesus. The Christ. The Savior. The Anointed One. Traditionally, we celebrate God's gift by showing a similar spirit of giving by exchanging gifts.

Most of us exchange gifts with those closest to us. Some give much to charity because of their ability to do so. Some unfortunately have little wherewithal to give much of anything. To them the season brings pain at the prospect of not being able to meet self-imposed expectations. I know, I've been there before.

I'm blessed to have been raised in a home that, though far from perfect, had an underlying love for each other. It was something my father valued greatly. Even during moments of chastening he always let us know it was because he loved us. When we as siblings griped and bickered with each other he would remind us how fortunate we were to have brothers and sisters. Now that we're older we all see that, and thankfully, we all appreciate each other more than ever.

I'm glad that when I made my dad angry that he reminded me of his love, (though sometimes the reminder had a measure of pain to it!) I'm also glad that we were not banished from him, or from one another. There were times I didn't want to speak to my siblings, but it was never forced upon any of us by our parents. In fact, often times the shared sympathy was a tremendous help. How painful it would have been if my dad would have prevented my brothers or sisters from talking to me just because he was upset.

The blessing of brother and sisterhood has extended itself to us through the Family of God. We count it joy that we have so many wonderful friends. I'm still amazed at how strong our friendships have remained after so many years. Memory would fail me to mention all those that mean so much to us. Even though we have now been former members of 3 congregations we esteem the wonderful men, women and children with whom we have formed relationships. This is perhaps the most understated element of Christian living.

The living strength of relationships and family bonds. This is perhaps why it hurts so much to go through the holiday season after having lost a loved one. The sense of grief seems compounded for many reasons. One definite reason is the feeling that we forgot to give something so important to the one we lost - a constant reminder of how much we loved them.

This holiday season I am reminding myself to let all of you know just how much you mean to us. Though we are separated by distance, we are joined by love. No silence, no lack of immediate presence, no busy-ness can really separate us from the feelings we have for you all. We think of you often and pray God's blessings upon you.

After all, that's a gift too. Merry Christmas.

The Art of the Spirit

2008-10-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

The words of a preacher are not lost on me. I usually listen very carefully and check myself to see if he's talking to me.

We've been in many, many services where we hear the voice of God speaking to us. One part of the message speaks to you, and another part speaks to someone else and the rest of us get parts of both, or something totally different. That's the beauty of anointed messages. They come across just like the Bible. Read it today and see something you've never seen before.

That's what I call the Art of the Spirit. A man speaking as the oracle of God, a voice to your soul, a breath to your spirit. It feeds the hungry, quenches the thirsty and salves the wounded. A subtle beauty like frost on a window or gossamer wings carrying their charges through a wooded canyon.

Yesterday I witnessed such a display in church while visiting our daughter and her family. The preacher, Brother Sam Howard, had delivered God's Word in a powerful manner. He related the story of Abraham's willingness to offer his son Isaac as worship. He clearly delineated the differences between sacrifice and worship and showed how Abraham clearly understood that's what he was going to do. Knowing in his heart that God was able to raise up his son, he must have been able to convey that same sense of faith to Isaac.

You see, Isaac would probably have been strong enough to fight off a man that was 100+ years old. It really would have been quite easy and if nothing else, the boy could probably outrun his dad. But for some reason there wasn't a fight. There was no conflict. When Isaac asked his dad what was going to be sacrificed, his response was prophetic - the Lord would provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering. This must have been sufficient for Isaac, for no other discussion was recorded.

Fast forward to the present. We are in day-to-day struggles. Our adversaries take on different names and relationships, but they are adversaries nonetheless. Some look like friends, others like family or employers. Rarely do they look like Satan, for there are none that I know of that could even describe him to me. Suffice it to say, we have enemies.

When it comes time to worship, our brains can be preoccupied with those that offended us. We may want justice for them instead of the mercy we ourselves would want. We may desire their downfall, some discrediting or even worse. We often choose to fight rather than lay down our egos. My will is the hardest to bring into subjection. And far too often we want revenge, recompense or some other sense of evening the score. All of this instead of taking the virtuous route of self-denial.

Enter the preacher speaking in the Spirit. Without instructing us, he simply places the story out there for God to do the work. And work He does! Quietly, skillfully with the touch of a master He speaks to our souls, quieting them in their time of trial. He lets us know that if we just simply worship Him the rest will be taken care of. We may lose something now, but He is able to resurrect whatever it is that dies whether it be reputation or relationships.

Anointed preaching. Apples of gold in pictures of silver.

Turn the Page

2008-09-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

In the words of a wise old king;

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

In seven years you get to know some people very well. We have been blessed to have been part of some tremendous friendships. These are the kind of friendships that will last as long as there is breath in our bodies.

Friendships born out of love. Friendships born out of passion. Friendships born out of adversity. We have known them all.

When we first moved to Reno, it was a time of national turmoil. We signed a lease on a home on 9-11-2001. Our arrival here was met with the uncertainty of the day. It was five months before I could find employment. I've never had that challenge before. The adversity of that time allowed us to develop friendships built around prayer and a common desire to see God's people prosper in a downward economy.

Our desire to help with the vision and mission of Pastor Flowers allowed a friendship to grow that was based on the passion of doing God's work in northern Nevada. This friendship actually started in Antioch, CA eleven years ago. I am sure it will last until the Lord calls us home.

And what can be said about the congregation at Skyline that would not be an understatement? These people are filled with love. They have a deep appreciation for the ministry. They have great support for the labor that is needed to see the results that Skyline has experienced. The wonderful support of the leadership was witnessed continually.

Oh yeah, and as Pentecostals we know a few things about fellowship. The great barbecues, the fun church picnics, snacks at Small Groups, meals at Newcomers Class. All churches seem to be blessed with kitchen talent, and Skyline was no exception.

To the great department heads, I admonish you to stay faithful to your field of labor. Whether it be Sunday School, Greeters, Music or any one of the others, it is a great thing that you are doing. It is impacting Reno and the surrounding communities. Just as God had in mind when He called your pastor here. Stand behind him in all that he endeavors to do for God. He will follow the Lord, but he needs your help to accomplish it.

Ladies of Skyline, you have been so dear to my wife. Your kindness, love and friendship has strengthened her when she needed it. Your laughter, love and prayers have spilled over into our home. Stand behind Sis Flowers as she supports and complements her husband's ministry. Support their family in all ways. Love their daughters as your own. Pray for them continually.

Linda and I have felt for sometime that we needed to get away and develop our teaching ministry, and so we have made the decision to leave and pursue our ministry goals. Skyline church has blessed us so much. The opportunity I was given to teach was most generous. I hope that you have enjoyed it as much as I have, but I feel that I truly received more than I gave out.

We love you all and you will be in our prayers. May God grant mighty revival in Reno. May your building be overflowing. May your lives be enriched by the great God, Jesus, whom we all so dearly love and serve.

It is time to turn the page. God bless you all.

Out of the Wilderness

2008-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's over. The Fishing Trip is complete. And for a change... I Scored!!!

The first evening, in the lodge eating smoked salmon chowder, I told the guides that I was somewhat of a fishing legend. Their looks begged me to explain, so I did. I told them that in 2005 over a total of 9 fishing trips I did not catch one single fish. It became their responsibility to put me on the catch and they did.

This photo is the end of our first day out. I'm in the background on the right standing above the 54 pound halibut. I limited on halibut every day, but Thursday, when the winds and the 8 foot seas made us cut our day short. I still landed a 25 pounder that day.

On Friday we joined the throngs wading near the banks on the Kenai River in Soldotna where I limited on Reds (Sockeye Salmon), a great tasting fish. In a couple of weeks we'll be hosting a fish fry, or something like it, to try and reduce the the current inventory of nearly 125 pounds of fillets!

The place we stayed was Casa de Kings, in Anchor Point, about 30 miles north of Homer. Captains, and brothers, Phil and James Mertzweiller run a great camp. Up early for a good breakfast, on the water around 6 am, fish for about 8 hours, come back, clean and pack the catch and then eat a great supper. I would highly recommend their camp if you want to go to Alaska and fish. Nothing much else to do around Anchor Point so it is truly for fishing. Stay a couple of extra days in Homer if you want something more coastal in feel. It's a neat little community. Or stay in Anchorage if you want that citified feeling. You can contact the fishing camp at www.casadekings.com for more information.

Tell them I sent you. Now it's time for halibut ceviche.

The Eagle Has Landed

2008-08-04T14:03:00.001-07:00

This must be America because I've seen more bald eagles in two days than I have at any time in the past. I've noticed that the locals take old tree trunks, invert, and plant them with the root ball in the air. This creates a roosting place for the eagles, and they take advantage of them.

I watched an eagle sweeping low above the Anchor River. Before I could get my camera ready, it came to roost in the top of a tree. Even my walking beneath it didn't seem to bother it.

America... What a place!

Land of the Midnight Sun

2008-07-26T23:12:00.000-07:00

Circadian rhythms notwithstanding it's difficult to comprehend so much light late at night. This photo was taken from the window of my room at midnight.

It's a good thing I've gone to sleep with the lights on for so many years or I might have had difficulty falling into restful bliss. No, I don't need a night light. My pretty wife likes to read at night. I like to sleep at night, so I've learned to adapt.

I think there's a conspiracy going on. Whenever I go fishing or camping it usually turns into something unexpected. I heard today that this is the coldest July on record. It can't be me bringing this bad luck, so somebody else must be following me! I'll try and ditch him tomorrow.

Some venturing today, a little fishing and a couple of really expensive burgers rounded out this day. Tomorrow, a little more fishing then off to Anchor Point, around 35 miles north of Homer.

Why is it named Anchor Point? Glad you asked. Captain Cook, the same guy who explored Our Favorite Paradise, also explored this area hence the name Cook Inlet. Caught in a storm they lost their anchor near the point where the river flows into the inlet. Nifty how them cartographers came up with names for all those places, isn't it?

Thank goodness it's cloudy tonight. Time to catch up on lost sleep!

Gray Skies Up North

2008-07-25T19:02:00.001-07:00

Well, it's not quite the top of the world, but it sure is closer than Reno. After a long day of flying we are finally in Homer Alaska, the land of something or other. We are staying at the Land's End Resort on the extreme tip of Homer Spit. By the way, the "we" I'm referring to consists of me and Emmitt, another superintendent that I work with. My beautiful wife had to remain behind as Emmitt and I were awarded this 8-day trip, by our company, to fish Cook Inlet.

Gray, drizzly skies arrived about the same time as we did. The temperature is 52 degrees, a little cooler than back home. But hey, this is Alaska. Another thing I've noticed is the color green. It covers most of the ground at the lower elevations. Snow is still present throughout the higher elevations.

Across Kachemak Bay lie the Kenai Mountains and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, home to many glaciers. Some of these are visible in the photo taken from the shore outside the resort.

If you're wondering where Homer is, break out a map of Alaska. Locate
Anchorage, then follow the southern shore of Cook Inlet until you see a
very narrow peninsula jutting into Kachemak Bay. That's us and I'm the
one waving.

Just kidding. More tomorrow.

Holy Ground

2008-07-23T16:48:00.001-07:00

I wasn't really thinking about it, but the realization struck me anyway. There was something different about where I was standing. And no, it wasn't at church.

I'm currently working on a military base. We were walking outside taking a visual survey for some upcoming work when it dawned on me. There is something different about this place. There is no doubting it.

You don't just appear on a military base. No indeed, you must actually go through some procedures just to get on as a civilian. There is evidence all around of the military's presence. The uniformed personnel. The armed guards. The C-130 aircraft. The fences. Yes, you know when you're on a military base.

Let me digress a little for a funny story. Today I was driving on the base and coming up to a pedestrian crosswalk in the middle of the block. There is a tree-lined center landscape strip dividing the traffic lanes that the crosswalk bisects.

As I drove through the crosswalk a man "appeared" next to my truck. I didn't see him until it was too late to stop. No, I didn't hit him, and no, it wasn't an angel. The reason I didn't see him was because he was walking through the trees wearing a camouflage uniform. I thought about what I would have said if I did strike him with my truck. I would have said, "The camo works great! Sorry."

Anyway, back to my blog. Knowing I'm on a military base is reassuring, if you mind your P's and Q's. There is quite a safety factor. Virtually all the personnel are courteous, professional and nicely attired. The streets are clean, and aside from the occasional aircraft arriving or departing, it's very quiet and peaceful.

Just like Holy Ground. There is no mistaking it. There is peace and safety. There you find power and might, though it is the Lord's and not the USAF. You know you're fenced in and protected from the ordinary elements of daily distraction. Hell's riffraff doesn't get in. You don't have to continually watch your back.

You are in a special place. A place designed with a purpose. You have a mission. You have access to the ultimate Commander-in-Chief. He's letting you know that He's there with you, and for you.

Next time you sense that you're in the presence of God, realize these things. Enjoy the experience.

Get a Clue

2008-07-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Clues are all around us. So is cluelessness. What's the difference? Probably just not paying attention. Not seeing the clues. Not really looking for them.

I remember as a child looking for 4-leaf clovers. They were supposed to bring good luck, and as every 10 year old knew, we definitely needed good luck. So there we were, a handful of us searching ours and the neighbor's yards looking for that which would supposedly change our prospects.

What did we need good luck for? I don't think I ever really remember identifying a situation or circumstance that cried desperately for change. Maybe my grades. Those were always challenging. I never thought it was a good thing to limit grades to A through F, so I became what may have been the first student in history to actually come home with a K on my report card.

(Just kidding... I never got worse than an H!)

In reality the only luck I needed when I got my report card was that my dad would be away on business. Since he worked locally, and was home everyday before 5, I knew that would never happen.

I think our parents enjoyed us being in the yard seeking 4-leaf clovers. The reasons would be obvious to any parent and especially to our two families with their combined 11 children!

So where am I going with this? Clues are all around us. Yes I know I said that earlier, but I want to restate it now. Being surrounded by clues should make us more aware of all things, but I don't see that being the case. Look at your children. Do you see what's troubling them? The clues are all around. If they're happy children, do you know why? If not, look around. It'll be easy to see the things that bring them joy.

Consider your spouse. You know what makes them tick, but do you know the source of an insecurity? The clues are there. If you know what they like, and most of us do, it's because early in our relationship we spent considerable time and energy studying their likes and dislikes - looking for the clues to winning their hearts.

Now consider the poor, unfortunate souls that lack love. It's all around them. Some goes toward them, some from them. But it's truly there. Someone once said, "Love is in the air." They noticed it, so why doesn't everyone?

A deep mystery is unraveled only by discovering many clues. A constant search is required. One clue leads to another, then another, and before we know it we're hot on the trail to the answer.

Where does this bring us? Simple. God is love. God is omnipresent. His clues abound. His love is everywhere. His grace abounds. He has given us so many clues. The easy ones start the relationship. If we are diligent in our searching we will find greater clues that unravel the deep mystery of His love for us.

Quit searching for good-luck clovers. Start noticing His clues.

We're Off, With Aloha

2008-03-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well, this trip is almost over. Just a little packing and off we go back home. It's hard to not want this place to be home. In fact I closed my eyes, clicked my heels and said, "There's no place like home." And what do you know, I opened my eyes and I was still here. Does that make here home? I didn't think so.

It's been great. The sand, sea, mountains, breezes all combine to make this place what it is. We stayed at the Beachside Studios, in the Monet Studio on Pu'ukani Place in Kailua. In Hawaiian Pu'ukani means, "sweet-toned," or "sweet-sounding." Waking up each morning to the sound of dozens of birds calling out to one another, the sound of the surf and the trees swaying in the breeze certainly justify the name of this place.

As I was taking this morning's sunrise photo a man walking past asked me, "Beautiful, isn't it?" My response was a simple, "I could never get tired of it." And it's true. There is something truly wonderful about this place. The only thing missing is the rest of our family, so it's off to see them.

Hope the next trip is soon. Aloha from Kailua.

A Taste of Paradise

2008-03-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

I don't think you could get sick of Hawaii, but you can get sick in Hawaii. Somewhere along the way I picked up a nasty head cold complete with earache and sore throat, but hey, I'm on vacation so I'm not going to let it get in the way.

Two days ago we visited the Polynesian Cultural Center. There I tasted poi for the first time, and from the picture you can tell it kinda grew on me.

Poi is bland at best. I don't know what people see in eating it, but I'm not given to other such exotics as fish-eye soup either.

At the Polynesian Cultural Center we saw many different island nations represented. After watching numerous variations of hulas and war dances, it's hard to walk around without wanting to break out in some foot-stomping, head-shaking, hand-waving dance. I can hardly wait for our next wild Pentecostal service. The folks at Skyline may just wonder what happened to me!

The PCC has a great luau and the food was all great. They even post their recipes online. The lomilomi, which is a salmon dish, is awesome and simple to make. We shared a smoothie which was served in a hollowed-out pineapple. Not cheap, but oh so delicious. We watched their great musical dinner show which was again a display of native dancing from many of the South Pacific island nations. Hmmmh, we feel a slight call to Fiji. I wonder who the missionaries are there.

Yesterday, we slept in to help me get a break over this cold and then we went to Waikiki for shopping, dinner and a late-night stroll on the beach. As with our last trip here, there was a moment when we had a beach all to ourselves. Tens of thousands of tourists all around the neighborhood, but very few on these beautiful beaches.

As soon as we get ready this morning we're off to hike to a waterfall. Aloha.

A Day to Remember

2008-03-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went to Pearl Harbor. There is always something that grips me when I contemplate the needless loss of life that took place there, and the great sacrifices that were paid as a result of that Day of Infamy.

I have often wondered what would some of those men have done with their lives had they a chance to live them out. Doctors, builders, preachers, teachers, inventors? We'll never know for sure. Their deaths are, in a related sense, our loss.

We visited what is called "Pearl Harbor Historic Sites" and it includes the Pacific Aviation Museum, the battleship USS Missouri, the submarine USS Bowfin and of course the USS Arizona memorial. The first 3 are paid attractions, and the fee is reasonable. The Arizona memorial is a National Park and admittance is free.

At the Pacific Aviation Museum there are a handful of planes on display. This is the first phase of what should turn out to be a first rate museum complex on historic Ford Island. One display in the PAM includes the remaining wreckage of a Japanese plane that crash landed on the island of Ni'ihau after being shot up during the attack at Pearl Harbor. The pilot crashed landed his plane in the farm land of a first generation Japanese immigrant and convinced the farmer that Japan was going to conquer America, so they set about to try and conquer the island for Japan. It didn't take long for them to realize that America was in no mood to be conquered that day, or any other day. The locals killed the pilot and the farmer committed suicide. They should have followed my plan outlined in my last blog!

The USS Missouri is really cool, and big! Its 3 turrets contain 9 guns capable of blasting a 2700 pound projectile 23 miles with pinpoint accuracy. That would be quite a wake-up call, as some found out. The "Mighty Mo" served proudly during WWII and Korea before decommissioning in 1955. Recommissioned in 1986 she served in the Persian Gulf and later, during Gulf War I. This ship was around during my Dad's service and after mine. It was a little bit of a trip down memory lane for me. You have to stick to the "Tour," following their signs, but I must admit I did want to go below decks and search around. The self-guided tour leads you all around the upper deck area, Officers Country, the Chiefs' areas and the Mess Decks. On deck the tour path leads you to where the formal signing of the Japanese surrender took place. So in one sense, the beginning and ending of WWII for America are just yards apart in Pearl Harbor.

The USS Bowfin submarine museum is also really cool. The sub is quite cramped, but the tour is good. Outside the sub there is a memorial area where you can read the names of every American sub and every American sub crewman lost during WWII. The ship names seemed so familiar to me, but then I'm a little bit of a war history nut.

I had to round out my day with another trip to the USS Arizona. Somber and still she lies beneath the gentle waves. The video below shows some of the wreckage and the oil she still leaks after all these years. The ship is the tomb of 1,177 men that perished that day, along with the ashes of some survivors interred later, and stands in mute testimony to the price that lunacy and lust for power exacts from its victims. Some ask, "Why visit the memorial?" Simply because we must never forget. I hope that long after the oil is gone, their memory will live on, and that the America they died for is still the bastion of liberty, hope and democracy that many of the world's peoples long for.

Having just completed another book on WWII, this one the story of the victory in Europe, I felt quite touched by American sacrifice. When the USA sent her boys to Europe, it was to liberate, not conquer, a people under oppression. When we sent our boys to fight in the Pacific, it was for both, retaliation for aggression that took place here, and to ensure our own freedoms. What came out of it all was a better world, paid for so bitterly by so many. How true the bumper sticker that says, "If you can read this, thank a teacher. If it's in English, thank a veteran."

As I looked around at the number of foreign tourists visiting the Arizona, I only hoped that they realize that America was not the aggressor, but the responder. We did not set out to rule the world after our victory, as the Axis powers hoped to do, but rather simply to halt the aggression of WWII. This fact was also realized at our winning the Cold War over Soviet Communism. My dad is a veteran of Korea. We both are veterans of the Cold War. The medals he was awarded for service are merely a reminder of what it costs to keep the world free. Thanks Dad.

One look around this place says the same thing. Let us never forget.

Ikinawannabelike Kamehameha

2008-03-04T22:25:00.000-08:00

It seems like it would be fun to be rulers over our own chain of islands. The biggest problem is that we don't have enough time to conquer an entire island chain. There are a host of other problems too, but if we don't set our standards too high, we might just conquer one. So off we went in search of a deserted tropical island and lo, and behold, we didn't have to go too far. We found out that Kapapa Island, in Kane'ohoe Bay is a scant 2.4 miles from shore and is flat.

So like Kamehameha, former king of the inhabited islands, Kali and Linaka (Gary & Linda) rented a kayak, armed it to the gunwales and set sail. OK, so it was armed with water bottles and we had to paddle, it still worked. We made it to our island and claimed it. We must have scared away all the natives because it was totally uninhabited. Only the vestiges of former citizens were visible among the windswept ruins.

We stopped to take some photos in case National Geographic wanted to cover the start of a new nation but were too busy to schedule a film crew. You can see the view of O'ahu above. This was taken from our leeward beach. Having so easily conquered this veritable oasis we started to plan the future. It was then we decided that it really would be too much work to colonize it. Besides that, in the distance we saw another kayak navy heading to our island. Rather than get embroiled in a territorial war we simply abdicated our thrones and went snorkeling.

There is a really cool, gigantic sand bar in the middle of the bay, about 1 mile from shore. The water is only thigh-deep and the current is very gentle. We swam for a while as we contemplated both our conquest and our hunger.

We decided to conquer the latter. Off to supper!

Intrepid, or Insane?

2008-03-03T09:41:00.000-08:00

Such a fine line distinguishes one word from the other. Merriam-Webster defines Intrepid as "characterized by resolute fearlessness, fortitude, and endurance." Insane is simply defined as "mentally disordered." Both could apply.

The hiking guide book says the Nu'uanu Overlook hike should take 3 hours and cover 5-point something miles. The website says "A wonderful pine tree-forested ascent to the Pauoa Ridgeline and Flats above Pacific Heights." What neither really tell you is that there are no clear paths, or at least none that we saw. But, as veterans of such wild hikes as the climb to the Pacific Crest Trail, where I had to pause often because I kept getting dizzy, or the "let's climb down the face of Mt. Washington" adventure, and Oh Yeah, not to forget the solo hike through the bear inhabited woods above Graeagle while banging a stick on rocks in hopes of not startling a furry critter able to do great damage, we thought. "hey, we can do this!"

After all, we hiked the Maunawili Falls Trail two years ago, and that wasn't marked. The only thing that happened then was that once we reached the vertical faces of the Koolau Range we simply turned around and set off to find the unmarked trail.

This trip promised more hope, even though my trail book was 7 years old and the rains had probably washed the trails away! So off we went, crossing the Nuuanu Stream in search of the two left turns we needed to make in order find the correct trail. Almost immediately after the second left we found ourselves on very narrow trails on the side of steep hills. We thought, "maybe George can help us, if we find him." George who? Why George of the Jungle of course! We hiked through a forest of beautiful pine trees. (In Hawaii!) They are called Norfolk Pines and are quite unlike any pines I remember from the mainland.
Soon, the pine forest gave way to the bamboo jungle and the trail kept getting smaller, and smaller and smaller.

Fortunately we came across some red plastic tape left by Japanese pilots shot down over Oahu in 1941. I think they were that old, because there was moss growing over the tape! These "trail markers" led us only to a ridge with an awesome panorama. We kept trying to climb higher but the trail simply disappeared and we thought it wise to descend before it got dark or rained.

Notice my foot in the photo. I am actually heading back down a "trail" we had previously ascended. The descent took us less than an hour and soon we were back near the stream and the cascades that entice so many trekkers, intrepid or insane. What to do next?
Easy go have shave ice and plan the next venture.

After all, how lost can you get? We'll let you know!

Another Trip to Paradise

2008-03-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

Aloha from "the Two Seas," the translation of Kailua.

Two Seas, or Two Currents, seem to indicate a meeting place for two natural forces. Similar perhaps in some fashion to a husband and wife on an anniversary getaway. This place is idyllic, mesmerizing and sensual. A short stroll takes you to a beautiful white sand beach that in its own unique way belongs only to the individuals on it. It is not crowded and despite its site on the windward side of the island it is not worn out. On the contrary, it is one of the most picturesque beaches on the island.

Today started with a beautiful sunrise, followed later by shopping and a lazy drive to the north coast where the surf was up and the surfers were doing their best to ride the waves. Another walk on the beach reminded us just how much we like this place.

The agenda for tomorrow, more of the same. Until then, Aloha.

I Think I Can

2007-11-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

Somewhere in my long ago I seem to remember a story about a little train that had to climb a hill. The memorable words were "I think I can." Christopher Columbus and his crew of not-so-merry men had to navigate the doldrums. Chris' attitude must have been similar to the train.

I sat down and checked my e-mails to find a letter from my sweetie. She suggested that I do something creative, although her wording was different, instead of simply surfing the web. But the suggestion was not without motivation. In her letter she said she loved me. Not only that, she used upper case letters! Whoooweeey!!!

She hinted that I might think about writing a blog, therefore I am now at the keyboard. I don't know exactly where I lost it, but I think it must be around here somewhere. This is the last place I used it. Maybe I'll find it. What? What am I talking about, you ask? Why, my creative impulse of course. It was here last time I had it so I figure it must still be close.

I think I can write. In fact I'm pretty sure that I can write. I used to be able to write. (In fact, you may have seen some of my stuff on this very blog!)

She may be my favorite subject to write about. I think she is. Yeah, she is. She's so multi-faceted I could write different chapters on her various qualities. But tonight a simple thought will have to do. I want to write briefly about our commitment to each other.

We have spent the past 13 months working together. I get to be the boss, and she let's me. Isn't that neat? Several of my friends and acquaintances have revealed that they thought it would be difficult for spouses to work together. I guess we're just the right kind of team.

Through the past months we have encountered many unexpected episodes in our life. One son gets engaged, then marries. (By the way, that is the way it's supposed to be done!) Another son goes off to college. Our dog of 14 years passed into the great whatever dogs pass into. A granddaughter was born. (Not to the aforementioned son, though!) And so on and so forth.

But the most challenging episode was the unexpected sickness my wife has had to deal with. No idea yet what it is, but they keep looking at different things. Maybe someday soon they'll determine what it might be. Maybe not. It's weird, but it probably happens to more people than I am aware of.

Now I know what it meant during our vows when we said, "In sickness and in health." No idea where it's headed, but I know where I'll be. Right here beside her. Where I need to be. Where I've always been. Call it sappy if you want. I'm OK with that.

She loves me, I love her. Such a deal.

My Son, Make A Difference

2007-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today is the day most parents worry about. Our oldest son is moving out. Not just out of the house but out of the state. He's getting married in a few months and is moving closer to his bride-to-be. He's set to start his new job, and a new chapter in life.

This has been a bittersweet week for me. I'm happy for him. I remember my journey from home and I was younger than he is. He'll do fine. We on the other hand, well we are going to miss having him around the house. He's a great son.

Adam, you know how much we love you. Now, I want to let you know how much I want you to make a difference in your world.

I am reading a book on Ronald Reagan called The Crusader, written by Dr. Paul Kengor. It's a fascinating look at the man who seemed destined to be the victor over Communism. What most sticks out in my mind is how often President Reagan stood alone and unmovable in his quest to liberate the world from the bondage of Lenin/Marxism. It got me to thinking about how few of us actually stay totally focused on our cause.

The difference one man can make. It's obvious that the greatest difference any one man made is seen in the cross of Calvary. For what would any of us have if we did not have the hope of eternal life and salvation through Jesus Christ? Notwithstanding the great sacrifice of the Messiah, I want to point out some men whom, with single-mindedness of purpose and clarity of vision, made a difference in our nation.

Freedom from the bondage of tyranny

George Washington was a man of great faith and a great leader in the revolt against the tyrannical reign of King George V of England. He led the ragtag armies of the fledgling United States against the professional armies of the King of England ultimately to freedom from tyranny. Given multiple opportunities to be crowned King of the United States of America, he refused, preferring the title “President.”

A man of prayer Washington was observed to pray twice daily and with an open Bible set before him. It was considered to be his daily pattern.

Freedom from the bondage of slavery

Abraham Lincoln was a man of faith and biblical studies, yet it is reported that his faith in God did not become active until he visited Gettysburg after the great battle. Nonetheless, Lincoln understood the evils of slavery and though faced with civil war and the possibility of the cessation of the southern states he stood his ground, stayed the course and proclaimed freedom for all slaves. This he felt was a mandate from the Almighty.

Lincoln’s life seemed to be one of unending adversity. History records many personal setbacks in his life, which is not inconsistent with the hardships all people faced in those days. From personal failings to deaths of those close to him he allowed these events to build resolve and tenacity. His persistent and unrelenting character ultimately led him to the White House and the presidency of the United States.

Determined to affect his country for good, he, like Washington became a focused leader of men, bent on delivering America from the scourge of slavery. When faced with the prospect of General Robert E. Lee invading Pennsylvania and no general wanting to defend the area, Lincoln resorted to prayer. Lincoln knew that America, not just the northern states, needed God. He also felt that with God’s hand America could be re-united and all men could stand as free.

Freedom from the bondage of Communism

Back to Ronald Reagan. Reagan seemed to know from the start that he was to save people. While working as a lifeguard on the Rock River near his hometown of Dixon, Illinois, he ultimately saved seventy seven people from drowning while losing none.

An avowed anti-communist, Reagan was determined to not let the effects of Lenin/Marxism take hold in America. As president of the Screen Actors Guild he fought the infiltration of communism into America’s media center, the film industry.

Looking back, his life seemed destined and guided by God for the purpose of freeing people under totalitarian bondage. The leaders of the Soviet Union had killed between 25 and 60 million people in their quest to force Communism on the world and Reagan wanted it to end.

Reagan’s greatest challenges did not come from Soviet leaders, but from right here in America. Reviled as uneducated and simple his purpose seemed to belie what appeared on the surface. Mocked in the media and Congress, he too stayed the course, often times going it alone. At times his devoted wife, Nancy, would also be opposed to some of the policies that he set in place. Yet through this all, the vision of winning the Cold War and freeing tens of millions of people fueled him onward. We all now know the outcome of one man’s persistent fight, and faith.

A word to Adam

A father much wiser than me once penned these words to his son. Ultimately they make their way to us and the application is universal. I choose them for you as you start your journey.

My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad. My inmost being will exult when your lips speak what is right. Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the LORD all the day. Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Hear, my son, and be wise, and direct your heart in the way.
(Proverbs 23:15-19 ESV)

In my lifetime I have seen what one life can do. I have seen the power of faith, the providence of God, the deliverance that one person can effect. My son, be a person of unwavering commitment. Be a man of faith. Trust God when even your friends seem opposed to your calling. Make a difference in your world.

Adam, it's your day, and your world. Make a difference.

The Latest and Greatest, Sweet Baby Dill!

2007-01-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

That title ought to get my daughter shaking her head. (Honestly, I only do it because I love you. And you know me!) Where was I going? Oh yeah, we got a new one! And this one is soooo coool! A new one what? Oh yeah, we got us a brand new granddaughter! And I'm going to brag a little.

My wife calls her Baby Dill, although her official name is Dillon Nicole. And boy, is she precious! She doesn't know it yet and that's great because if she did, well, I'd go broke. I can't ever remember a time that I've enjoyed shopping, but now I love it. (If it's shopping for her!)

She's perfect. Precious innocence, what could be better? Tiny little features and a nice head of hair. Her looks are made up of the best of her parents, and grandparents. (Hah, thought I'd throw that one in too!) And wow, does she look good in the tiny dresses I picked out for her!

As an added treat Caleb is now officially a Big Brother. And boy, does he love his little sister. It's hard to kiss her because he's always running interference. This is good because some day someone outside the family is going to want to kiss her and Caleb the Protector will be there to make sure no villianous smoocher gets one in on her!

Rich and Crystal, you done good!!! Caleb, keep up the good work!

Once Upon A Time They Lived Happily Ever After

2007-01-30T18:00:00.000-08:00

I heard her say it one time. It really caught me by surprise and yet at the same time I was completely humbled. I never would have expected her to say what she said, but she did. Don't you just want to know what it was? Okay, I'll tell you.

She was talking on the phone and told the person on the other line how growing up seemed so difficult and as a result she never expected much. Then she said, "But now I have this fairy tale life."

Wow! Did I have something to do with it? I mean I'm no Prince Charming and she's no Sleeping Beauty... well she does like to sleep and she is very beautiful, so let me rephrase this. I'm no Prince Charming, but if a frog could be changed by a kiss, then I could... Wait, that doesn't seem to work either. You've heard of mixing metaphors, well I'm probably butchering fairy tales.

And fairy tales are just that - tales, fables, stories to amuse the young at heart. Yet so many seem to find hope in them. The triumph of good over evil. The good guy wins in the end. The hero gets the girl. The dragon is slayed and the dungeon and the tower lockup get renovated into a multimillion dollar second estate. The moat gets stocked with trophy size trout and... they live happily ever after, never even worrying about how to pay the utility bill!

That may work for Walt and Mickey and the rest of them but seldom does it work for the rest of us. Usually the daily grind is more than just our morning cup of coffee. It's the pattern of our life. We rise in the morning and still tired from the lack of sleep, grab a cup of coffee in our insulated travel mug, rush to get out of the house so that we can get into rush hour traffic, which is anything but a rush. Ah, then we can finally enjoy that cup of coffee. Or can we?

Get the picture? Then how do we have the fairy tale life? Slow down, and let's see.

In the fairy tale there are characters, each of whom is fighting something in their lives - loneliness, failure, rejection or a combination of these or other things. They have dreams but their dreams are rarely achieved early in the story. There is usually an outside force that is warring against one or more of the principle characters, but these characters are good people and we know that in the end they will get what they truly want. And they usually find it in another person.

Here's the really amazing part as I see it. Fairy tales are facsimiles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Metaphorical representations of the unseen battle for our souls. In reality, however, fairy tales are a poor representation of the love of God. We can truly achieve our hopes and dreams, but they are not because of Prince Charming. They are because God, who is love, sent His Son to ransom us.

I must admit that when I heard my wife make her statement on the phone, I was truly honored that she felt that way. I smirked and thought, "Wow she sees what a great thing we have." But the smirk soon left when I admitted that if she really has a fairy tale life, it's not because of me. It's because in the only true epic tale of love Jesus fixed what was broken. He took care of our inadequacies, our shortcomings, our failings. He alone became the unifying force in what has become an incredible journey of love.

Prince Charming? No, not me. Prince of Peace? Yes, He.

Which Way Did They Go?

2006-08-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

Capturing the emotion of a moment is perhaps the greatest challenge of any writer. The ability to put into words what races through one's entire mind and body in a particular moment is, in my mind, paramount to successful writing. Today I hope to convey such a moment.

My present construction project is at a prison here in Nevada. Certainly not a wonderful place for any who are onsite, though the free men get to leave when their shift is done.

Casual observations of prison life, from the outside, have turned into a sort of fascination. An odyssey of sorts. A quest of questions. Why, how, who are all queries I have pondered as well as asked my escorts. Different castes, good guys and bad guys. Good guys making bad momentary decisions. Anger, hatred, drunkenness. Any number of reasons taking a man from the realm of the free to the realm of the incarcerated.

It has seemed to me that if you took a snapshot of the men in the yard and could erase the backdrop of the prison, you could easily drop them into a park or a ball field or downtown and they would fit. I'm sure there may be a demoniac or two among them, but for the most part they look just like you and me. Fascinating and perplexing at the same time.

Entering the work area through a series of sally ports takes you past the inmate processing station. As we passed by this area yesterday I noticed about a dozen duffel bags and some other items. I asked my escort if they were coming or going. His answer was a simple, "Going."

That's when my emotions went into a sort of frenzy. It's hard to describe but it was sort of like goose bumps and panic and joy and, and, and... I was at once happy for them and very concerned. When they walked through that gate they would breathe the same air, but now it would be as free men. But where would they go? Would they go home to their families? Did they even still have families? Would they go to a bar and start the tragic cycle all over? Would they go to church? Did they pray to Jesus while incarcerated for freedom? Would they make good on the promises they made Him?

Mostly what I felt was a sense of helplessness. I didn't know any of them, yet I wanted to help all of them. I wanted to point them in the direction of the cross of Calvary. To a Savior who could make them truly free. I wanted to help integrate them back into society, to be there to answer their questions and encourage them when the inevitable struggles appear. I wanted them to make the right decision, and yes, I feel that a life in Christ is the right decision. I simply prayed that somehow one or more of them might appear at our church and say that Jesus directed them here so they could make good on their end of the bargain.

And so I sit here at my keyboard trying to convince us that they are worth the effort. We've all made mistakes. We've all come short of the glory of God. At this moment I refuse to assign degrees. I'm not going to categorize them into murderers here and drug addicts there. No, for right now I want us to see them as Jesus sees them. Souls needing His saving grace. Men needing a new life. Washing the old life away in baptism in His name, and starting a new life filled with His precious Spirit. You know, that Acts 2:38 thing that is so pivotal to a true life in Jesus!

I can only wonder. Which way will they go?

Lost, But Not Really

2006-08-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

I recently taught a lesson on being lost. Not lost as pertaining to salvation, but lost as in lacking a sense of direction.

There are myriad areas in which to question ourselves. Many times we question our self-worth. We question our abilities as husbands, fathers, parents. We wonder if we're doing all that God would have us do. We ask ourselves if we are selfish. Sometimes we don't like the answer. Sometimes we don't do anything about that answer either!

We sit and ponder if our current predicament is self-generated even though often times it's simply God's way of helping us develop trust in Him. How many times have we asked ourselves, "Am I in the right place?"

I am reasonably convinced that most of our questions are based on selfish motivations and not on God's will. We want this or that. We want it now. It owns us and not the other way around. We become slaves to the "trappings" of life. We need to slow down, or even stop, and let God truly direct our lives. When we hear His voice, we must then obey. If we don't hear His voice we still have His word, an incredible guide in and of itself, and we must obey it.

When I was a child, around 8-10 years old, we had a family reunion in honor of my great-grandmother, Sarah Roberts. It was held in a forest preserve south of Chicago. If you are not familiar with forest preserves, they are areas of forested land set aside by the government to hold back encroachment and allow some wildlife habitat near populated areas.

Anyway, during this event my brother David, our cousin Tommy, and I went for a walk. Before long we were lost. Didn't have a clue as to where we were. We couldn't hear a familiar sound. In fact, I don't think we heard any sounds. We probably thought we saw a bear as well, even though the only bears around that area play for the NFL! As we tried to collect our thoughts we became even more certain of our quandary - we didn't know where we were.

Then came a moment of clarity. Hey, this forest is bounded on 4 sides by roads, and the forest is only about one mile square. We knew if we walked in the same direction we would eventually arrive at one of the bordering roads. As expected, it happened and shortly thereafter we were on our way back to the party. Amazingly, no one seemed to miss us!

Here is my point. Even if you think you've lost your way remember that God has put a border around you. If you haven't crossed His boundaries you're not really lost. You may not know where you're at, but He does.

"Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him; on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him. But he knows the way that I take...
(Job 23:8-10 ESV)

Listen for His voice. If you can't hear it, stay in His book.

Out of Breath?

2006-07-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

The word "inspiration" has been running around my mind. Not because I have an abundance of it, but rather the opposite. Daily I want to write something inspired, something relevant, something you would be rewarded for in finding this blog. Far too often, however, my mind is only filled with the consuming thoughts relative to weariness, stress and exhaustion.

Inspiration has been defined as breath and even as the breath, or wind, of God. How I have wanted to feel like a hurricane, bringing wild, wet winds of moisture laden skies. To be able to skirt across the surface of the ocean lifting moisture to lofty heights then transferring and placing that treasure from the vastness of the sea right in to your brain with the full force of God's divine power!

But alas, the word that best describes the emptiness of my repository of wit and wisdom is "sirocco." A hot, dry wind. Devoid of moisture, almost abrasive in its searing heat. What's up with that? I have prayed that God would once again inspire me with words to reveal and impart His ubiquitous goodness to all that read these lines.

Maybe, just maybe, there is hope for me. I was reading the definition of "sirocco" when I came across something I wasn't aware of. The word is defined as a hot, dry desert wind with no moisture, but that's only the beginning. What I found is that a sirocco starts as a hot, dry desert wind from the Sahara, but as it crosses the Mediterranean Sea it picks up significant amounts of moisture and delivers it to Italy and some of its surrounding islands.

Not necessarily a hurricane, but hey, there's hope! When Elijah finished his mighty display of faith and revelation on Mt. Carmel he had his servant search the sky for signs of moisture. (You may remember that they had been in a considerable drought brought about by the words of this same prophet.) When the servant finally saw something he reported to Elijah that there was a small cloud arising out of the sea, to which the man of God responded by directing him to get off the mountain before the abundance of rain hindered him.

Seen any clouds? Shouldn't be long from now.

For The Record, He Didn't Condemn Her

2006-05-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Butcher a cow. Butcher a pig. But please don't butcher the scripture.

Yesterday I was listening to KKOH radio personality Bill Manders who hosts their afternoon talk show. He was talking about the recently released movie "The DaVinci Code." He was asking callers to call in and give a scripture that proved Jesus wasn't married and had no children. His particular take on it was along the line of reasoning that said if the scripture didn't explicitly state He wasn't married and a parent, then that silence left the door open for the possibility.

One caller used the familiar reference in Isaiah 53:8. However he used the NIV which states;

By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants?

My choice would have been the King James Version's rendering;

He was taken from prison and judgment. And who shall declare his generation?

Both make a comparable and adequate answer to the host's question, but he was stuck in his ways and declared this verse to be inconclusive. My how we can get stubborn with God's word! In Acts 8:33, the Ethiopian eunuch gets a Bible Study on this very verse. As for me, I believe that this verse speaks to many things, including the fact that He never had a wife or children to carry on His lineage.

One thing I feel is that scholars who wrote the commentaries, readily accepted as fact that Jesus never had children. Therefore in their comments they would not mention anything along this line, opting for more spiritual applications of the verse.

I will admit that I may be off base, but I would need to be shown the error of my reasoning. The crux of this blog though is not whether Jesus had a natural family. It is with the common misquoting and misrepresentation of scripture that seems to abound. We all make errors at times when we quote scripture. As such we all need to be willing to make correction. I myself have made countless speaking errors, most of which I have been able to fix when I realized what I had said or when someone has brought it to my attention.

There was another point in the radio program that really annoyed me. In fact, after that exchange I turned off my radio and listened only to the voice within my head. Another caller had called in with a rather complicated exigetical explanation using the fact that if Jesus had been married, and since He had not died on the cross, thereby providing forgiveness, then He would have sinned. This was based on his interpretation of husband and wife becoming one flesh. If a sinless person was joined to a sinful person, this unifying of the flesh would corrupt the sinless person.

I must admit this was an interesting explanation, but it seemed to turn sour when the host challenged the caller to ask who was the woman caught in adultery. "Was it Mary Magdalene?" the host asked. The caller responded by saying, "No, it was the woman at the well, the Samaritan." The host then repeatedly asked him, "Didn't Jesus say 'I forgive you'?" His response finally was, "Yes, Jesus said He forgave her."

Quickly searching the concordance of my mind, (since I was driving and it would have been dangerous for me to whip out my notebook and fire up E-Sword!) I realized the actual rendering was "neither do I condemn thee" which was a follow up answer to His question asking where were her accusers;

When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
(John 8:10-11 KJV)

There is no mention of forgiveness, only Christ stating that He would also not cast the first stone and the admonition to change her behavior immediately.

You may say I'm splitting hairs, but I have to tell you, I see so much being read into scripture that we Christians become a laughingstock because we don't have ready, reliable answers. Sometimes the scripture explains its point by what is written. Sometimes it does so by what is not written.

Study to show yourself approved unto God. For then can we silence the foolish arguments. Study your Bible that you may have a ready answer of the hope that lies within you. Study your Bible that you may have unwavering faith in God's word.

Then you too, can set the record straight.

The Child That Wasn't, The Child That Was

2006-03-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

I've often thought of the paths that we take in life. Every decision we have made results in who we are today. For many of us, including me, it seems the regretful decisions outweigh the prudent decisions. But I wonder just how bad those decisions are.

Recently, I felt able to place into words thoughts I've ran through my mind thousands of times. But first a little background.

I've always been fascinated by all things military, aviation-related and a plethora of "man-things." I've ruminated thoughts of what might have been if this war or that plane crash had never happened. Lives ended at only 19 or 21 years, or whatever age. If this man or that woman had only lived to make an impact in their world. What if they had given birth to children?

What would he have been, the Child That Wasn't? Would he have been a star student? Would he have become a doctor or professor? Maybe he would have become a preacher of the gospel. Or even better, maybe he would have become an incredible evangelist, reaching multitudes with the message of Christ. More than likely he would have brought his parents great joy. That's what children do.

We don't have to imagine any negativity in this scenario. The negative side of this is the reason I'm writing. Because of some negative issue, the Child Isn't.

I can almost hear your response to my proposition. You may ask, "how can you speculate on what might have been?" I don't know, I just do. But let me turn your question around. I ask, "how can we speculate on what might have been if we had not made that regretful decision?"

Since you and I cannot change the past, why do we have so many regrets? Is it because we made a bad decision, or because we received recompense for our decision? More than likely it's the latter. Bad decisions without lasting ramifications are soon relegated to the distant category of "lessons I've learned." But those decisions with lasting impact can fill our days and nights with regret. But why?

Let's say for instance that a woman makes a bad decision and winds up pregnant with a child. Many have opted out of the pregnancy, but not all. The child of indiscretion comes into this life and the mother may have serious concerns about her own actions. She may wonder how she'll be able to raise the child or what others may think. She may be castigated by society, though that seems rare these days.

But what bad thing has the child brought to this situation? Nothing. The child had nothing to do with the decision. The child is the result of the decision. So now you are left with the only wise choice being to raise the child the best you can.

Just how different is the Child That Was from the Child That Wasn't? Simple. We have the Child That Was. This child can impact so many others. This child can be a blessing. This child can bring joy and blessings. This child, though unplanned, is here. We must deal with it as if it is part of our lives.

It's just the same as most any other decision we made. Remember, our decisions made us. So my advice is simply get on with life. Don't worry what might have been. You can't change it. However, I will advise you to look forward and consider your actions before you make that decision.

Be content with what you have. Not what might have been, but The Child That Is.

The Search For Sunshine

2006-03-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

Drawn to the isles. What could be a more rewarding temptation, than to enjoy them?

O'ahu is an island with many beaches. Almost sounds silly doesn't it? Could you have an island without beaches? Sure, and O'ahu has it's share of rocky, beachless shoreline. Today's is a report on the search for sunny, unpopulated sand.

We headed out for the northeast coast - the place that would complete our around-the-island travel. Contrary to popular myth you cannot drive a 2-wheel drive vehicle completely around the island. The farthest northwest tip is a tall, steep, rugged point that juts in to the Pacific. Only the adventurous hikers or 4-WD people get to make this trek.

There are some gorgeous beaches along the Wa'ianae coast, but they were a little too crowed with tent cities for our liking. So, we just enjoyed the drive and the view. We finally settled on Papaoneone Beach, a lightly used beach adjacent to some high-rise condos. Finally sun, sand and surf. And another colony of sea turtles! It's easy to sit and watch them.

Yesterday, we went to Nimitz Beach on the shore next to Barbers Point Coast Guard Station. We boogie-boarded out quite a bit from the shore and let the waves bring us in. The water was very shallow with a rocky reef that made it uncomfortable to swim. So... we played sea turtle and basked in the sun.

We closed the evening with a trip to the Ala Moana Mall for some real searching! Another form of paradise for those drawn to the aisles.

Man, It's A Jungle Out There!

2006-03-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

The best laid plans of mice and men... There are many mountain and jungle trails here on O'ahu. Probably best said that mountain trails ARE jungle trails since you don't seem to get one without the other.

Our plan was to hike the Maunawili Trail to the Maunawili Falls. But from the beginning it was ripe for a challenge. First of all, we had to take Pali Highway to Auloa Road, not the first one but the second one (except that we were coming from the opposite way, which meant we needed to take the first one and not the second one!) When we found it we then took it to Maunawili Road to Kelewina Road and on to a side street to park. If this all sounds Greek to you, it isn't. It's Hawaiian and boy, do we butcher it!

It's a beautiful language and it seems like it would be easy to learn, so maybe we'll come back and study it more.

Our guide book says "it's a user-friendly waterfall... and the hiking is straightforward." You cross the Maunawili Stream 4, count them 4, times. "You can boulder hop it," it also declares. Well, the first thing we had to encounter was the mud. It's hard to boulder hop streams when your shoes are covered in mud. But we made 3 of the 4. At the fourth one the shoes were a little too muddy and Oops! she slipped on a rock and pulled me in with her.

Onward we slogged. When we came to the missing sign, we climbed almost straight down the side of the mountain. "How did we know the sign was missing?" you ask. Easy, they stole the sign, but left the signpost. Elementary, my dear Watson! After what seemed like hundreds of feet of sheer descent we came to a fork in the stream. The trail appeared to go to the right so we followed it. After trudging further into the jungle, suddenly and without warning the trail ended.

So... maybe the sign was for something else we thought. My intrepid tour guide, who doubles as my wife, said "Hey, maybe we should have stayed on the trail we were on." So up the thousands of feet of sheer mountain trail (actually only 110 feet) we resumed hiking on the ridge trail.

Soon the sounds of distant water gave way to the chatter of jungle monkeys, arguments of myna birds and the occasional splashing of crocodiles waiting for their next meal. (The story needs a little more drama right here.) Actually, there were no monkeys or crocs. There was much noise from native birds and the occasional airliner flying overhead. Oh, the sounds of paradise!

We hiked what was called the Maunawili Connector Trail for about a mile uphill when it connected with the Maunawili Trail. I'm beginning to see a pattern here! Along the way were looking to see if Hansel and Gretel left any bread crumbs for us to eat in case we became lost again. But, no Hansel, no Gretel and thankfully, no Big Bad Wolf.

Any way, back to the story. We ultimately hiked to the base of the cliffs that tower over the windward side of the island. What incredible views we had. Looking almost straight up nothing but a wall of stone, to the sides nothing but jungle and over our shoulders in the distant, the Pacific Ocean. Wow!

Since we didn't find the falls, which was our intended goal we set off again to take the trail where the missing sign was. Or wasn't. I'm not sure how that works grammatically. This time during the descent we passed what we have come to realize are "tourist hikers". We can tell this by the heavy panting they are doing while ascending this trail. So placing our lives in their hands we asked if they knew the way to the falls. They said, "yes."

Hallelujah, we're going to make it, we thought. Then the caveat. When you get to the fork in the stream and the trail turns to the right, you don't follow it. Instead you get into the stream and follow it uphill for a while. Then the trail starts up again! Wow, how come we couldn't figure that out? Anyway, we were soon rewarded with a cool dip in the waters beneath Maunawili Falls.

The water was cool. Very cool! Breathtaking cool! But, not cold. Go figure. I won't bore you with the details of the return trip. Suffice it to say I didn't boulder hop the stream once. I just got in it and walked through it. If for no other reason than to clean the mud off my shoes.

Every intrepid explorer received bounty for his efforts. Captain Cook had some islands named for him (for a while), Columbus had a city in Ohio named for him, Lewis and Clark had.... Umm, I forgot. Oh well, my wife and I had shave ice. Oh yeah, a fitting bounty for a day's adventure.

Need a tour guide? Just call Tarzan and Jane. We're busy. Gotta go swimming! Aloha!

On A More Serious Note

2006-02-28T00:29:00.000-08:00

There was only one thing I really wanted to accomplish on this trip besides enjoy unlimited time with my spouse. That one thing was a trip to Pearl Harbor, and specifically the Arizona Memorial.

They have a really nice visitor center here. A small museum and gift shop are part of this visitor center. There are many nice displays to help you understand the gravity and extent of the attack that took place on that fateful Sunday morning.

At one display there is a listing of every American that died that day, whether a military man on another ship or nearby base, or civilians killed by anti-aircraft fire or while trying to rescue and help others. Often times in our minds we limit the death toll to the 1,177 men who were killed on the Arizona. There were well over 2,300 people killed that day and everyone is memorialized here.

The trip to the Arizona Memorial is by Navy shuttle craft. It's almost hard to imagine that most of the lost are still entombed beneath the visitors who come to pay their respects. Inside the "shrine" portion is a marble wall listing all the names of the dead, both Navy and Marines. In the same room is a smaller marble wall listing the names of survivors who have since passed away and are now interred here with their former shipmates.

Just south of the Memorial is the USS Missouri. On her decks in the Summer of 1945 Japanese officials signed an unconditional surrender. Now in the waters of Pearl Harbor adjacent to one another are the starting and ending places of this costly war.

I wondered today what the world would have been like had the attack not taken place. Or had the radar operators, who received warning of this great flight of hostile aircraft, been heeded and a warning sounded. How many lives would have been spared? How many hearts would not have been broken?

It is not ours to know. Only to remember.

The Legend of Kamanawanahakalugee

2006-02-28T00:10:00.000-08:00

One time a Haole (pronounced "howlie", and meaning "white man"), stood on the crest of an ancient volcano in a gale force wind. In an effort to sound native he cried to the wind "Kamanawanahakalugee."

The Akamai Big Kahuna (meaning "wise expert") cried out to Malihini Haole, ("visiting white man"), Unowannahakalugee from Pali Makai ("from the cliff toward the sea").

Questioning the Big Kahuna, the Haole asked, "why?" The Big Kahuna replied, "You no wanna be part of Hula brah!" (Meaning, "you don't want to be memorialized as a story told in dance to all Haoles that visit da islands bruddah!") And also because Hula dancers no wanna hakalugee into the wind to tell your sorry story!

Now Haole only say to Big Kahuna, "Mahalo." Meaning "thanks!"

Breaches, Blowholes and Sea Turtles

2006-02-27T10:55:00.000-08:00

On our way back from Diamond Head we stopped at several sights along the way. The most civilized (?) was perhaps the local Costco, where I picked up batteries for the digital camera. There were many places to pull over and view the spectacular coastline. We first stopped at the Lanai Lookout where you can spot another idyllic island off in the distance. To the north of Lanai, you can also see Molokai and Maui. Maybe someday we'll visit them.

While stopped there we watched a few humpback whales frolicking in the waters not too far off the shore. An occasional burst of water and air from their blowholes tipped us off to their locations. Shortly after the oceanic geyser, we would see their flukes as they came to the surface.

Next and a just a short distance from there, we stopped near the Halona Blowhole. This is a hole in the rock where the surf blasts through and looks kind of like Old Faithful. Only on a much smaller scale. It was here that while focusing my camera on the blowhole, a humpback completely breached the surface just offshore. Needless to say, I didn't get either picture.

Yesterday, continuing our search for things not seen in Reno, we headed north along the shore. We went to a place called interestingly enough, Turtle Bay. This beach is home to a group of giant green sea turtles. They swim just offshore. They can be found in the surf. They tell us that they will even swim with you if you're in the water. You can see from the picture that they even like to bask in the sun. I wonder who the tourists really are!

Finally yesterday we went as far west as you can go. The road ends about a mile or so from the northwest point of the island, preventing you from truly driving completely around the island.

Water and air temperatures are awesome. But right now there's a system passing by and we're getting lots of wind. Oh well, if we get stuck we'll try to manage.

Onward to Pearl Harbor and the International Marketplace. Ciao for now.

A Woman's Second Best Friend?

2006-02-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

I've heard it said many times that a diamond is a woman's best friend. If that is true, would Diamond Head be her second best friend?

We ventured away from the relative seclusion of Kailua and traveled into the more populous region known as Waikiki. (Pictured, as seen from the rim of DH.) Not to visit, but as a route that would take us to Diamond Head. We parked in the crater and hiked to the crest. It was kind of funny later when my wife realized that we were in a volcanic crater. She thought we were just in a parking lot and would climb over the ridge into the crater! Not to worry though, no one was around the last time it burped.

The climb itself is somewhat challenging as it is a combination of switchbacks, stairs and tunnels. When you get to the top you are in some pre-WW1 bunkers and you have to climb out an opening about 3 feet high. Along the way my wife was reminded of a time when she led a prayer walk through the long trails of Mt. Hermon conference center in the Santa Cruz range. She asked the women to record their thoughts of the journey in order to recall them later.

Many had recorded how that journey resembled the journey we call life. Long, hard, with lots of ups and downs. Diamond Head's hike evoked similar thoughts from us. But alas, we were determined to not let it bother us. We are treating it like preparation for something to come later in the week. A true mountain ridge hike, with jungle vines, killer snakes and thieving monkeys! OK, so I'm kidding about the wildlife, but we hope to take on a serious climb in the next couple of days.

Otherwise, it's a trip to the market place. Her true best friend.

It Hit Me

2006-02-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

Well, it sure feels like we're in Paradise, though there are signs to the contrary. But those I will not dwell on.

We are in Hawai'i celebrating 30 years of wedded bliss. OK, maybe it's not been entirely bliss, but hey, it's been great.

When my wife and I got married way back in 1976 we wanted to come to Hawai'i. (That's how they spell it.) But since I was serving in the Navy, we couldn't afford it. It came to pass the next year, however it was in separate trips. I came for a day and a half while on a WestPac cruise. My wife went in May with her best friend (next to me, of course.)

I had a duty day when we first arrived so I never got off the ship that day. The next day we were leaving at 1 pm, or so, and I wasn't allowed off the base. I plan to atone for that trip!!!

We both worked so hard to get ready for this trip, and there were a few challenges to even pulling it off, but we persevered. We arrived yesterday afternoon and quickly set off for the beach. But we were very tired and went to bed early. I slept for 11 hours, she about the same.

This morning with camera in hand I went and walked Kailua Beach to get photos of the sunrise. I was not disappointed. That's when it hit me! This must be Paradise. The place God created for man and woman to acquaint themselves with one another. We intend to fully comply with God's will!

More to follow. Aloha, from hard-hitting Kailua, Hawai'i!

The Other True Meaning Of Christmas

2005-12-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

Locally the endeavor by some to remove the word "Christmas" from our vocabulary has received a lot press. Many stores and companies have directed their employees to use the phrase "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas." One local talk show hosts replies by simply asking,"what holiday is it?"

Last evening at Sky Peaks, the retirement community where we conduct a Bible Study, a couple of residents commented that never in their lives have they ever remembered such an assault on Christmas.

Even the purist at times gets caught up in the busyness of Christmas. We all want to share the good times with family and friends. This is a good thing. However, if we're not careful we can still miss the gift that Christmas is.

The Bible tells us that there is "Faith, Hope and Love, but the greatest of these is Love." God's greatest gift to us was not our life, but His life. Not our birth, but our savior's birth. Not our ability to love, but His love toward us.

This morning when I checked my e-mail there was a message from one of my daughters. As I read it I noticed that it summed up what I have felt about Christmas for the past twenty five years. (It was twenty five years ago that I truly began to live my live for the One who gave His life for me.)

Here is her letter to me:

"Dad,

I was just sitting here thinking about Christmas and I wanted to share with you something that I remember from my childhood. I remember the one year that we went and stayed in Tahoe with Calvin and Jana, we were all running around one night and you wanted to tell us the Christmas story. You grabbed the Bible and were ready to read to us, but instead we all wanted to watch TV. We were so excited to get to watch a little TV since we didn't have one at home that we had put the real reason for Christmas on the back burner. I remember that you started crying and told us that it hurt you that all we were interested in was watching TV when you were trying to share with us the story of Christmas. I remember that I felt so convicted at the time. And right then I got a love for the true meaning of Christmas. A love that I have now been able to pass on to my kids. I just thought you would like to hear how one little moment of your good parenting changed a part of my life for the better. It's a moment that has always stuck with me. I remember it every Christmas and have now shared it with the girls. I started thinking about this because, tonight I went out to do some Christmas shopping. I went to Toys R Us and as I was leaving the parking lot, I glanced across the street and saw the Christian bookstore. It was the only store around that was completely empty. I thought to myself, how sad that we are celebrating Jesus' birth and every store is filled except for 'his'. So then of course I went in and spent a bunch of my husbands money. But hey that's a pretty good story to use to defend my shopping addiction."

Well, I must admit I cried again, but this time there was a different reason for them. As parents we want our children to do things right, but not just out of obedience. We want them to understand the reasoning and the true meanings of our actions. I think she grasped what I was trying to teach them. All our children have.

My wife and our other daughter have lately stated that it would be nice if we didn't exchange gifts with each other but do something for someone else. After all that's what God did for us.

It is my deepest wish at this season, and all year long, that we understand the true meaning of Christmas. Not the wrapped gifts under the tree, but the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes that one day would hang upon a tree for you and me.

Now you know. Go have a Merry and Blessed Christmas.

What's Trite About It?

2005-12-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I was listening to the radio on my way home from work. The talk show host was asking his listeners to call in and tell him what they wanted for Christmas. As he asked this question, I began to think of the standard answer I give my wife when she asks what I want for Christmas. "Peace on Earth and Goodwill toward Men."

All of a sudden the program's host said, "Don't call in and tell me something trite, like "Peace on Earth and Goodwill toward Men." Talk about timing!

Almost immediately I became quite incensed. The first thought in my mind was, "Hey, that was the purpose of the first Christmas." In fact, the very first Christmas message was delivered to the shepherds. It was very simple:

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
(Luke 2:13-14)

The most important thing that we can remember is the meaning behind the first Christmas. God's desire was that we could be at peace. At peace with one another, but especially with Him. In fact it was His goodwill toward men that allows us to be in a position to be at peace with Him and one another.

So, I must ask, "What's trite about that?" The angelic herald was the pinnacle of preaching, the apex of all messages to men. God is here to do something about us. For us.

Listen to the message. And practice what is preached.

Tis The Season

2005-12-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it's upon us. The Christmas season is here again! Wow, it seems like it just ended and here we are again.

Many things will be said about keeping things in perspective. They will run the gamut from not spending too much, to not getting overly stressed and even to not overeating.

I must admit, I will be guilty of most all of them. The truth be told, spending too much leads to stress eating. Thank the Lord for January diets!

Much has been reported in the media lately about the removal of Christianity from this season. I won't bore you with re-hashing the arguments, but I will simply state, "Jesus is the Reason for the Season."

We celebrate the gift God gave us in His son, Jesus. Jesus is the Christ, therefore the holiday (holy day) is called "Christmas." As parents we give gifts to our children. But the day is not called "Parentmas!" Husbands and wives exchange gifts but it not called "Spousemas!" Need I continue?

We give gifts to commemorate God's gift to us. Without the gift of the Savior, we would not have hope. However, because of that most special gift, we now celebrate this season.

I know there are various opinions about the actual time of the birth of Jesus, pagan associations to the winter solstice and myriad other arguments to take away the most important aspect of the season. The remembrance of the birth of our Savior

So in keeping everything else in perspective, let's keep the main thing the main thing.

There would be no Christmas without Christ. You cannot "X" Him out of your holiday. You can shop, spend money and overeat anytime. You don't have to call it "Spendmas."

My suggestion: Close your pocketbook, close your refrigerator door. Open your Bible. Open your heart to the real theme of the holiday.

Joy to the world, the hope of heaven still reigns. Merry Christmas.

Awake At 4 AM

2005-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

I know it’s been a little while since I’ve written. Just like the ocean, I have ebbs and flows of the creative tide. (That assumes that I have any creativity.) Anyway, I’ve wanted to write something but nothing went from my brain to my fingertips. Maybe I’m just tired.

In fact, I’m sure that’s it. I’m tired. Too much going on, too little time to complete the necessary things and too little energy left for anything else. Just to look at the number of books on my nightstand that I’ve started reading will give you a hint about me. If a book doesn’t arrest my attention early it will likely not get finished. There are a number of books that I feel I must read, so I’ll plod on until they’re digested. The others remain mute testimony of my indifference to uninspired prose.

Back to being tired. The worst part of being tired is waking up with less than 7 hours of sleep. Getting 8 hours is a pipedream, but 7 are usually sufficient. But lately I’ve been getting about 6, and that’s just not enough.

So here I am, awake at 4 AM. Did you even know there was a 4 AM? Generally when I awaken before I have a full night's sleep I wonder if God is calling. He does that you know? He wants to see if you’re serious about listening. In any case, I lie awake for a few moments to get my bearings. Then I listen for things going bump in the night. Oh my, I hope that’s never the case, though occasionally it is. Then I have to go find the ogre, the prowler, or the kid that’s just thirsty.

Boy, am I rambling. Must re-focus. Get back on track. Where was I? Oh yeah, awake at 4 AM.

There I lay, waiting for some spiritual inspiration to call me to my knees. I whisper a prayer, just in case. Sort of like fishing a new lake. A cast here, a cast there, maybe troll the shore, perchance there may be a lunker nearby. Giving God the chance to call me to the deep. If He doesn’t I roll over and try to return to unconscious bliss. Rarely, however, does that happen. Generally I just lay there waiting for the alarm to sound its unnecessary wail.

While I’m laying there I usually ask, “God is that you?” But I don’t speak too loudly just in case He wasn’t. I don’t want to bother Him, you know. If I do, He might ask me to do something like travail for a missionary half way around the world - where it’s 4 PM.

And that’s part of the picture. While we lie still, much of the world is very active. But often in our activity we make too much noise to hear God. So He must wake someone who is sleeping or speak to someone engaged in prayer. Since not enough of us partake in the latter, He must employ the former.

Aren’t you glad that when you desperately need God, He has means to meet your need? Oh yeah, I know some of you wonder why God even needs us if He truly has the power to handle the situation alone. You can ask Him yourself if you want, but here’s my thought.

God wants to use us for the simple reason that we need to know that we are not alone in this Christian walk. We have brothers and sisters throughout the world. They need us, and we need them. You help build my faith. Hopefully, I do the same for you.

So when God calls you to your knees in the middle of the night, please answer. It might just be me you’re praying for.

Ye Are The Salt Of The Earth

2005-10-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend we are celebrating our church’s fifth anniversary. My wife and I have been here four of those years, and my, how time flies. It’s proving to be a great celebration of what the Lord has done for us. Any time you attempt to put effort into celebrations there is a great amount of work performed by a great number of people. These past weeks most of our church’s regulars have turned out in great numbers and made sacrifices of time and money to prepare for this weekend.

Even more than the efforts of the church over the past few weeks, there has been even more effort over the past years by a select group of individuals and couples that I would like to recognize today.

Last night we hosted an appreciation dinner for our SALT leadership team. What does SALT stand for? Well, it’s not Strategic Arms Limitation Talks. It stands for Skyline Advanced Leadership Team. It’s an acronym for the men and women who make a difference in Skyline, Reno’s greatest church.

Skyline is not Reno’s greatest church because of these people. It’s the greatest church, because God shows up here! These fine people show up because God shows up. And they work diligently behind the scenes for the successes that we, as a church, have realized.

They represent the different departments that make up our church’s organizational chart. They make up the core membership. The one’s you go to when something needs to get done. I won’t mention their names here. They know who they are, our pastor and I know who they are, and most of all God knows who they are.

I spoke briefly to them all, acknowledging their sacrifices and their faithfulness. Both of these are key ingredients, without which, we will never really accomplish anything in life or God’s kingdom.

I mentioned to them that the Air Force is known for pilots and airplanes. And that for every pilot there is something like one hundred support personnel required to keep that pilot and his airplane flying. We don’t know their names, but because we see the planes in the air, we know they are there, doing their jobs.

When I relayed this information to our pastor today he agreed with my sentiment and then laughingly pointed out that the pilot is the one that gets shot at! He’s the one that sometimes gets captured. He’s the one that sometimes has to lead the effort in stormy weather. He’s the one that sometimes has to fly when he doesn’t want to.

But it makes it easier when you know that there is a staff of people who stand ready to rescue you. Committed for the duration, willing to stand by your side, send you on your way, and make sure there is a place to come home to.

You guys are the greatest. Truly, the Salt of the Earth.

Catch And Release Savior?

2005-10-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful morning to go catch some fish. I felt it was time. I don't think I've caught a single fish all year. I'm not positive, but it has been a long time since I've even had a bite. So yesterday was going to be my day!

I set up beside the lake eager to get a line in the water. I cast my bait into the water and set my rod for the inevitable! I follow my routine as far as setting the bait and choosing the right location, which I did again. But this time no fish.

I must admit that when the fishing isn't going my way I resort to a technique an old friend taught me. He said that if the fish weren't biting we are supposed to eat sunflower seeds and spit the seeds into the water. I'm not superstitious but, hey, they weren't biting and I wanted a fish!

After my rod was set I began to get the net and stringer in order. However I couldn't find my stringer. I thought I must have lost it, but I couldn't figure where. What a bummer, I wouldn't be able to keep any of the fish I would catch!

Then I found it. Stuck in the bottom of my net.

I thought about this for a while and it dawned on me. Sometimes we have a net that we could use to catch someone for the Lord but we have no stringer. Jesus is not a catch-and-release savior. He wants to keep those that come in. We can bring them to Him, but will they stay? It depends often on what brought them in the first place. Did they come because of an event? Or did they come because they had a need that only Jesus could minister to?

In either case, there must be something that keeps them after the event has ended or their need has been met. And the only thing that I can think of is a genuine relationship with their savior. So prepare your nets, but also have your stringer ready.

As for my fishing trip, you're probably wondering if I caught any fish. I mean, you're wondering how many did I catch. Right? Let's just say that their population isn't shrinking because of me.

But I'll be back! With net and stringer.

Little Cabin In The Corner Of Glory

2005-09-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Once again, I am using as my title a phrase uttered by someone. In this case the wording came from a sermon that my pastor was preaching a couple of weeks ago. He wasn’t preaching about “A little cabin in the corner of glory.” But he used the phrase and I thought, “Hey, that would make a great blog title!” That’s sort of how this business works for me.

The words kind of conjure up the image of a bright, clean cabin sitting in the clouds a stone’s throw from God’s front door. Little did I know at the time that I would be in a setting that resembles that image just a short while later. Neither did I catch the resemblance to the lives of disciples and disciple makers.

This past weekend we visited our dear friends Dwight and Carol. They were hosting a “chainsaw party,” which equates to a day of chopping wood, eating barbeque and fellowshipping. And what a day it turned out to be.

Twenty-five years ago my wife and I dedicated our lives to serving the Lord. Dwight was immensely instrumental in my spiritual development. His approach was simple. He became my self-appointed mentor. Didn’t even give me a choice. Some people are that way. Because he and I both had wives and children he developed a plan to involve me in the construction of a sunroom at his house. Needless to say there were myriad other things that we all did together.

Dwight and Carol are two of the finest people to ever walk God’s green earth. If Dwight is not the greatest friend a man could ever have, he surely would be tied for first among a mere handful of men. He worked with me through thick and thin. (Trust me, I been both!)
The investment that this couple made in our lives is evident every time we attempt to do anything for God’s kingdom.

Anyway, a few years ago Dwight and Carol bought a home in the Sierra Nevada. It wasn’t much to look at, only consisting of some rough framing and an undeveloped site. But they had a vision to make it their home. And wow, what a home. Call it Mountain Luxury or Luxury Mountain, or whatever. It is simply beautiful.

We talked for hours about our families and the work of God. We watched videos of each other’s kids and grandkids. (I believe that we tied in the contest for who has the greatest grandchildren.) And we reminisced about the paths that we have taken.

I let Dwight know just how much I appreciated his labor of love toward my family and me. I realize how much of an investment he made in me. And I realize the sacrifice that his wife made in the adventure as well. Sort of like the cabin they’re building in the mountains.

Cabins In The Corner Of Glory. Go build one. Thanks Dwight and Carol.

Don't Stop, But If You Have...

2005-09-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gotten up at night and drank something cold? Or maybe something hot first thing in the morning? If so, you know that sensation of temperature that follows the liquid from your mouth to your stomach.

It seems to happen to me only when I have an empty system. Perhaps I’m thirsty or maybe it’s just been a long time since I drank anything. Those times, more than any other instances, make me sense the course of the cooling beverage.

I’ve also noticed that during the first drink my system becomes acclimated to the temperature. The following sips, though only seconds later, do not have the same effect. Similarly, the more sated I am, the less I notice this feeling altogether. Which brings me to my point.

In life we go through our routines without much of a break. Our system is full of the stuff of life. For most of us, daily life has its stresses, but for the most part is uneventful. Who I would call happy, contented people, don’t experience many extraordinary sensations in their daily habits. Monotonous? Perhaps, but that’s life for many of us.

But when something breaks our routine, when we do something so out of the ordinary, we experience a new sensation. Or at least revisit feelings we haven’t had in a long time. I think it’s because we’ve been satisfied with our life, or have surrendered to its routines.

Thus far I have lived my life with Jesus as my central focus for over 25 years. Oh, I cram family and jobs and fun stuff in there too, but it’s just not the same without Him. What I have noticed is that too often I wondered where that ecstatic, emotional sensation went. I still love what I do, but it seems so routine at times. Then it dawned on me. I have become sated. In case you’re wondering, sated means “satisfied, full, stuffed.” I haven’t been hungry because I haven’t left the table in a long time. There is certainly no problem in this. It’s just that my system is still acclimated to the feeling since the last time I filled up from empty.

So my advice to you is this. If you are struggling in your faith because you don’t have those same feelings that you used to have, it may not be that something’s lacking. On the contrary, it may be that you are full and stuffed to overflowing. Again, there is nothing wrong with this. This should be normal for those who choose to walk this path.

If however, you have already given up, I encourage you to take another drink. See if you don’t experience that refreshing sensation running through your system as if it were the first time in a long time. The Bible says, “Taste and see that the Lord, He is good!” I say, “Go ahead, give Him another shot.”

It just might be what you need. Bottom’s up!

Life in the Spin Cycle, and the Load's Unbalanced!

2005-09-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

I heard my title phrase from two friends who were discussing life in today's world. It had such a ring of reality to it that I told them I was going to use it as the basis for a blog.

Just think of it. Our daily routines are so rushed that before we have a chance to unwind we've already transitioned into tomorrow. If fact, just how do you unwind the spin cycle. We spin and we toil endlessly it seems. Even the camping trip that we went on to unwind was too short.

Complicating this is that sometimes too many things are out of balance. We don't spend enough time playing, loving, laughing or just talking to our loved ones. We work for our bosses, we work for our church, we work for our friends, we champion one or two noble causes and the next thing you know there's an uneven distribution of weight in our spin cycle.

So what do we do about it? What can we do about it? The most logical answer - and by far the hardest to implement - is to simply slow down. Put less on your plate, bite off smaller pieces and push away from the plate when you're full. It's almost impossible to do, but we've got to try.

Back to the camping trip. I got off real early last Friday, packed up my wife, son and the camping gear and headed out to Plumas-Eureka State Park outside of Graeagle. Great campground, cool temperatures and right next to the restroom facility. Flush potties and hot and cold power showers. What more could you ask?

Family and friends had given me gift cards for my "L" birthday. (See earlier post.) This enabled me to buy a new tent and a queen-sized air bed on a frame. It was decked out complete with a three-drawer storage unit and twin night stands. Not really furniture, but camping gear used appropriately. Wow! What a weekend.

Nine miles of mountain hiking and a cool dip in a crystal-clear mountain lake made it a Saturday to remember. And a two-hour nap on the shore of Lake Davis on the homeward trip made it the best camping trip I think I've ever been on. Talk about resetting the spin cycle! That's the way to do it.

I've often wondered about those people who go camping and bring televisions, videos, boom boxes and every other reminder of the rat race we call "everyday life." I'm not a doctor, but I do have a prescription for those stuck in an unbalanced cycle. Get loose, get lost, get familiar with family and friends again.

And by all means check out God's creative genius. After all He didn't just make the forest for the animals. He made them all for us! (That's your reading assignment. Go check it out.)

How nice to just chill and enjoy the blessings. Taste and see.

Stormy Winds in The Will of God

2005-08-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had occasion to lead our church's weekly prayer meeting. My usual routine for preparation includes, among other things, being acutely aware of what is happening at the time. I do this because one of my highest priorities is to be relevant in my ministry and I find people can better relate to life-based lessons.

Therefore, I was kind of tuned in to the thunderstorms that went through the area I was working in earlier that day. Like most thunderstorms I've been around it started with the typical rapidly cooling temperature. Then a light rain, followed by the lightning and resultant thunderclaps. It rained sufficient enough for me to send crews working in the open home for their safety.

In later meditation, a scripture in the Book of Psalms came to me. Psalms 148 deals with the fact that all creation must worship God. He is above all and everything in His creation is designed to recognize this fact and bow before their maker. (Unfortunately not all of mankind will humble themselves and bow before Him at this time. Later on they will, but that is another message for another blog.)

Nature has no choice but to obey God. Therefore this verse sticks out in my mind:

Fire, and hail; snow, and vapor; stormy wind fulfilling his word:
(Psalms 148:8 KJV, emphasis mine)

This passage from the 148th Psalm shows us what too many of us wish was not God's will - the storms of life. They come to all of us at different times. Of course, it's usually at the wrong times, or so it seems. But did you ever consider why they are part of God's will?

When things are going well it's far too easy to become complacent in our relationship with God. We know that we need Him, we just don't call on Him like we should. Therefore a little stormy wind will send us running to shelter, and because He is our shelter, "voila!" we are back where we are supposed to be.

Not all stormy wind is a bad thing. I'm not talking about a gentle breeze, which generally is just enough to cool your brow. I'm talking about big wind. The kind of wind that makes you want to run around the farm yelling "Auntie Em, Auntie Em!" Do you wonder what good there is in a Kansas twister type of storm?

Consider the plight of the children of Israel as they were in Egypt. The Bible records that they were living in Egypt after the miraculous events of Joseph's day, when a pharaoh arose that didn't like the fact that so many foreigners were in his country. He saw them as a threat and slavery and bondage ensued.

Many years later God raised up a deliverer - Moses. When leading them out of the land of bondage they got to the edge of the Red Sea. Mountains on two sides, an enemy behind them and a seemingly impossible crossing in front of them. Many of them would have looked at their situation and considered the possible options, negotiate with their enemies or try and hike over the mountains.

But neither negotiating with the enemy or climbing mountains was in God's will that day. He wanted to conclusively show His power. Not only to the Egyptians, but to the Israelites as well.

So what was His will for that day? A stormy wind. Again, not the gentle breeze that blows your napkin off the picnic table. God's will for the day was to send a stormy wind powerful enough to part the waters of the Red Sea, dry the ground and amaze the daylights out of His chosen people!

In another story, He calmed the winds with His words. In both instances God chose water and wind as the media for His message. He has the power to command wind for His purpose, and His purpose usually has something to do with benefiting His people. That's you and me.

It's interesting to note that the New Birth experience that Jesus spoke about to Nicodemus also uses these two media - baptism in water and spirit. (See John 3:3-8 and Acts 2:1-4, 38)

So next time you're in a wind storm ask yourself, "If God is commanding this wind for my betterment, is He trying to get my attention also?" Chances are He is.

Let the wind blow. You can't stop it anyway!

Turning "L"

2005-08-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

Well it finally happened. I waited half a century for that momentous day when, yes, I became an antique. I call it turning "L" which is the Roman numeral for the big five-oh. I told everyone I was using "L" because I refuse to use the "F" word. Some get it, some don't.

I must admit that I struggled tremendously with the thought of becoming a classic. My family and all of my friends however, made the big day easier to bear. They roasted me somewhat, and said a lot of nice things about me. They probably figured it would be safe to say anything they wanted, true or false, because I'm now licensed to forget. And forget I do!

The best part of being this far in the journey is the knowledge that I have made so many wonderful friends over the years. And it takes years to find the quality of friends that I have. But the greatest blessing has been that my children finally understand me, or at least excuse my age-related symptoms. And my wife still loves me. More so than ever. See, aging has its benefits.

I don't worry about the AARP enrollment forms that come in the mail. I'm not interested... yet.
The aging transition has been subtle when I consider that the joints have hurt me for many years, the vision dimmed a long time ago, and the hair, well at least it's turning gray before it turns loose! And I can use selective, I mean fading, hearing to my advantage.

All in all you all have made it a wonderful first half century. Keep up the good work.

Little Things and Close Encounters of the Unexpected Kind

2005-08-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted to this blog. I seem to have been trying to fix all the problems of ministry on my other site (see links). The purpose of this blog has been to try to provide inspiration and call to mind simple things that we should appreciate.

For instance, last week and then again this morning I was almost involved in head-on collisions along side Lake Tahoe. In both cases vehicles had crossed over the line into my lane. Last week's event was not as close as today's. Today I thought I would be hit. Only by the intervention and grace of God was I spared. Way too close for my comfort!

Last weekend, my wife and I were in San Jose, where an impaired driver narrowly avoided side swiping our car! Three events in one week. Wow!

Close encounters of the unexpected kind. Makes you appreciate the routine and mundane! But what happens when we can't avoid being hit? Will we blame God? I certainly hope not.

God really gets a bad rap from us! Adam and Eve sinned and what did they do? Adam blamed God. Eve blamed the devil. Everybody blamed somebody but themselves.

On to little things. We had a great trip last weekend. On the way to speak at a funeral service, we stopped in Santa Rosa to visit with our daughter and her family. (Actually, we went to visit our granddaughter, but since our daughter was there we thought we'd see how she was doing too!) Just kidding. I said that because I know she reads this blog and I wanted to tease her.

It is so great to love and be loved. Miles of separation only seems to make the heart grow fonder. All of our children are turning into great, responsible and respectable adults. It's a great pleasure to watch them mature. To all of you, I'm highly proud of you.

On the phone our two year old granddaughter talks to us as if she remembers us with detail. However when we visit her she only seems to remember Nana. She's a little unsure of Papa. She knows the voice, but the face.... well, to say it's a little strange may be an understatement!

In San Jose we enjoyed the hospitality of my wife's mother. As usual she tried to be as accommodating as possible. Simple breakfasts that are simply great!

On to the funeral. It really was a beachfront get-together with a boat ride to scatter the ashes of our dear friend's mother. I knew her mother's name but I asked what she went by. Her three children all said "Mom." To hear their personal tributes to their mother - mom - you would know that they loved her deeply. And that was simply reciprocated love.

Other friends were present that we hadn't seen in a while. One in particular was the lady that witnessed this great gospel to my wife. I took a moment and thanked her for sharing her joy and testimony with my wife. She told me that she tells everyone that thinks their marriage is at an end what God did for us 25 years ago. But I was appreciative for more than the reconciliation of our marriage. I told her I was grateful to her because I didn't know how good life could be with Jesus in it. I wouldn't trade these years for all the money in the world.

My wife, our sons and daughters. Their husbands and children. The extended family. The friends. The joy of living life with purpose and direction. Amazing grace!

It's more than just little things. It's more than just close encounters of the unexpected kind. The little things add up and before you know it you truly cannot count all your blessings. And some of the close encounters lead to some of the greatest encounters imaginable.

Keep your eyes on the road. You might be headed in the right direction!

In Memory

2005-05-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

Today is the day we celebrate Memorial Day. A day of reflection for those who gave their all that we might have what we have today - freedom. Many are the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. Even more however, are the men and women who placed themselves in the service of this great nation, willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice, but hoping they wouldn't.

A heartbeat is the difference between honoring fallen heroes and living veterans. When one falls we all should feel a bit of loss, and much greater pain if we actually knew them. This is the responsibility of a people who lives in a freedom purchased with the sacrificial blood of a fellow citizen. But let's not forget those that, though living, ventured into the valley of the shadow of death and placed themselves in harm's way to protect the American ideal.

I am a veteran, and proud of my service. I am grateful for all of the men and women who served beside me, whether in my generation, generations future or generations past. These too, are our nations heroes and my hat is off to them. I too, am thankful for all of the spouses, sweethearts, children and parents that supported, prayed for and remained committed to those that rose to the noble causes.

My dad served during the Korean War. He has always been my hero, but his sense of commitment and duty to this great country during a time of war makes me elevate him just a little bit more. He and his generation fought to preserve freedom, not for us, but for a nation threatened by the false promises and ideologies of communism.

If communism was so great, why did millions flee to America instead of the Soviet Union, Red China, North Korea or any of the other Marxist stongholds? Communism was not great. It failed to deliver its promises. It only benefited the leaders, but to what degree? They too were in the bondage of a system that could only offer repression and punishment for those that sought freedom.

Throughout the centuries men have waged wars to conquer people and nations. Power hungry madmen sought to overthrow civilizations, cultures and races for myriad reasons. But this blog is not about them. It is about those that resisted them. It is about those that were willing to lay it all down for freedom.

America's wars have never been about conquering people. They have always been about freeing men and women from bondage. I know that some of you have fallen into the trap of thinking that we have fought some wars for oil or corporate greed, or whatever. As a nation we must protect our interests therefore we have to be selective in our choices. But all of our choices have been tempered by the need to free people from tyranny and bonds of oppression.

But again, this blog is not about political ramifications, justification or motives. It is about American men and women who have made themselves available to the cause of freedom.

Our nation's own birth through freedom from Britain during the War for Independence - commonly called The Revolutionary War - was purchased by the blood of 4,435 killed and 6,188 wounded. Over 217,000 men ascribed to, and fought for, the basic tenet that we are endowed by God with freedom and should never by subject to tyrants like King George of England. This may not seem like a large number, but remember there were only 13 colonies at the time.

The American ideal is not uniquely American. It comes from a biblical understanding that good and evil forces war for our souls. Righteousness affords us freedom and evil offers only bondage. Thankfully, men realized this fact and were willing to fight and die for it.

During America's short history over 41.6 million men and women served during war time. Millions more served during peace and they too qualify for honor and thanks from our nation. But of those that served over 1.5 million were wounded and over 630,000 were killed in action or died from their wounds. A staggering price, but one they were willing to pay. This is why they are our nation's heroes.

Today, America faces many challenges. We are comprised of many different ideologies. We have many special interest groups that want to make policy for the nation. We still have racial tensions and prejudice. We argue over issues as diverse as the environment, welfare programs and taxation. Such has always been the history of our nation. I personally think that the greatest challenge that we face is that of freedom of religion.

It was never the intent of the frames of our Constitution, nor the signers of the Declaration of Independence, nor any of the Founding Fathers that there be freedom FROM religion. The First Amendment very succinctly addresses the problems of state-run religion and state-run press. If you don't think that these can be problems look at the former Soviet media, Pravda and the Tass news agency. As the propaganda machine for communism they only spread lies and kept the people in the bondage of darkened and slanted news and dis-information. Consider also the radical Islamic groups that threaten freedom of religion in their nations, or the Inquisition of several hundred years ago. And don't ever forget that this nation was settled by those fleeing religious persecution in England.

This brings me to the point of this blog. We must maintain our freedoms at all cost. I'm not as young, nor as strong as I once was, but I am as determined to stay free as I have ever been. More so now that I see my freedoms threatened. At any cost. Others have paid the price. I too, am willing, even wanting, if necessary. I want to see this nation, United, Under God, with Liberty and Justice for All. Not just some. All. You, me and the other guy. All of us. Always.

Deep in my heart I feel that though we are challenged by and amongst ourselves we still hold to the American ideal. The Cause of Freedom. When we are again challenged, we will forget our differences and rally around Liberty, under God's principles, and strengthened by the resolve given us by our fathers. We will unite and we will fight. We will be wounded. We will die. But we will be free.

It's the American way! God Bless America. God Bless You.

Hollow Eyes

2005-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Not only are our eyes portals for images to enter into our brain, and hence our person, they also are a point of egress, letting others see our inner feelings. You can peer into someone's eyes and see many things, some they want to show and some they don't.

How many times have you commented on someone's happiness, not because they told you they were happy, but because you saw joy in their eyes? Likewise you can tell when they are sad. No rocket science here, just good old-fashioned observation.

There are times that you and I seem to be in a cloud. We used to use a term called "zoned." I think it comes from "being in the Twilight Zone." You and I would appear little more than a zombie, but it was simply the result of intense focus, or blissful daydreaming. Back then someone would say, "you look zoned," or "I was zoned." Anyway, I'm giving you an idea of my age and background. Let me move on.

This morning I dropped my wife off at the school where she works. As I was driving away, there was a woman turning the corner into the school, apparently to drop off her child. As she turned in front of me I was struck by the hollowness of her gaze. As she turned the corner she didn't look forward, sideways, backwards or any other direction. It was as if she were on autopilot. It was more than being "zoned." It was more than daydreaming or being intensely focused. It was an empty stare.

It betrayed her in the sense that anyone who saw her would immediately notice this emptiness. Emptiness is not necessarily a term of vacancy. An empty room would be vacant, no one present, no one home. But the empty stare that I saw indicated to me that there was definitely something there. Perhaps it was depression. Maybe loneliness. Maybe that overwhelming feeling of despondency. I don't know exactly what it was, but it was there - in that emptiness.

I couldn't help but think about the times that I have felt lonely, perplexed, concerned and worried. These are natural human emotions and I have my fair share of them. But rising out of that morose moment came the realization that even though I deal with these emotions, I have a relationship with Jesus Christ that brings great inner cheer.

King David, (I'm on a King David kick lately, have you noticed?) was a great man with many accomplishments. He was a man after God's heart. But he had enemies. Lots of them. Some from the neighboring country, but some from his own people. Even some in his own family. Though he was a valiant warrior, he had a very tender side as well. I believe that if you looked into his eyes you would see what he was feeling.

I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears. Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies. Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping. (Psalms 6:6-8 KJV)

Have you ever seen someone who has been crying recently? Sure, we all have. What gets me is when you ask if everything is alright you get as an answer, "Yes, I've just got something in my eye." Well, yes you do, it's called sorrow. It comes from being hurt.

If we're not careful today's hurt becomes tomorrow's scar tissue. But how can we be careful? What can I do to prevent this from happening? Let's see what the Apostle Paul told us to do...

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7 KJV)

There is a peace of God which you and I cannot understand. It's like a covering, an invisible shield that seems to protect our spirits from the negativity that ordinarily comes with some problems. Let me show you what I mean.

A month ago I lost my job. Never pleasant, this was even more hurtful when you consider the circumstances, which I will not go into today. Since that time, money has been very scarce. My wife returned to work the week after I came home and it took four weeks to get a paycheck. In fact, it came yesterday. My unemployment checks are just a fraction of what my income used to be. Funny thing though, the bills still come. Our stomachs still need food and our cars need gas. Neither is cheap. Life goes on.

At Tuesday night Prayer and Praise, my son-in-law was praying for me. He referred to the way I am handling this present situation as "stoic." If you know me you know I'm not very "stoic." Anything but stoic. He went on to explain that I wasn't representing my circumstance with outward expression. Do you want to know why? Jesus. Simply Jesus. Not a pie-in-the-sky, fix everything that's wrong, candy-coated Savior, but an understanding that what He has given me is far more that what I have lost.

If you look into my eyes I hope you see a radiance. That is my intent. Not a facade. A real, true, emanation of the goodness of Jesus in my countenance. Life is not easy, never has been. And to top it off, it's not fair either. So what. If you have Jesus, you have all that you need.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
(John 16:33 KJV)

You too, can experience the joy and hope that comes from having a relationship with the savior of the world. In the days before the arrival of the Messiah, men still understood that their God, Jehovah, saw their situations and understood their plight. But even more than this, He lightened their eyes. He gave hope to them and lifted their heads.

The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
(Psalms 19:8 KJV)

But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
(Psalms 3:3 KJV)

God has a gift for you that will replace the emptiness. It will fill whatever void you have. It's the Gift of the Holy Ghost. He promised it to you. You don't pay for it, neither can you earn it. But you must go and receive it. Where do you go? To Him.

I encourage you to read the Book of Acts. Specifically, chapters 2, 3, 10, 11, 19. See how others received it. See what a difference it made in their lives.

There is no greater treatment for hollow eyes.

When The Prophet Doesn't Hear

2005-05-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, I sat in what was then our brand new home. We had high, vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, a good view and reasonably nice furnishings. I remember thinking, "what a nice house, what a blessing that we get to live in a home like this."

Well, time passes and situations change. The Lord led us here to Reno and we sold our beautiful home in the Bay Area. We have not owned a home since then, but we're still expecting that we again will.

I'm reminded of a story in the Bible where King David had a similar time of reflection. The verse opens like this,

Now when the king lived in his house and the LORD had given him rest from all his surrounding enemies, the king said to Nathan the prophet, "See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells in a tent." And Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that is in your heart, for the LORD is with you."
(2 Samuel 7:1-3 ESV)

King David was experiencing a time of rest from warfare and with peace of mind took a moment to sit and ponder his blessings. His friend, the Prophet Nathan, was there with him. Perhaps they were enjoying an afternoon drink while discussing the things of God. During this respite he realized that while he sat in a luxurious house the Ark of the Covenant was inside a temporary tabernacle, for he had recently brought the Ark to Jerusalem.

I think David must have been enjoying a humble moment. The crowds that sang about his victories were not present, the adrenal rush stilled for a season and no battle plans being brought up. This afforded the king an opportunity for placid reflection and the welfare of the Ark. Sometimes the best thing we can do is get our minds off ourselves and onto the work of God. I'm inclined to think that this is what was going on in the room where these two men of God were chatting.

I can picture David leaning forward and telling this noble prophet, "I feel bad because I'm living in this palace and God's dwelling place is in the middle of some clotheslines. The people saw it in transit, its resplendent beauty shining as they could only imagine previous to this journey. Now however, this magnificent, ancient peice of our history sits under draped cloth."

Nathan had an idea of where David was headed with this conversation. Maybe they had discussed similar thoughts earlier. It's not too hard to "read" a good friends mind and I think Nathan perceived David's desire to build a house for God. So in a noble, friendly gesture, Nathan concurred with David's plan.

When Nathan stated, "Go ahead, for the Lord is with you," I don't think he meant the Lord was in this plan, rather that David was God's man and He was always with him. Why would the Lord take occasion to turn down an offer like this? Why not let the people know that the God of all creation would dwell in the most magnificent house in the land? Why should the Almighty live in a tent when the children of Israel no longer wandered in the wilderness? Many questions would all point to the same logical end - it simply made sense for the king to build a great edifice for God's Ark.

So they agreed. Perhaps they even discussed some particular points like location, material and scheduling. You know how these "think-tank" sessions go. You start with a vision, the polish it until it looks really grand. The creative juices flowed and a to-do list was probably generated. More ideas and planning would surely follow in the near future. But it was time to call it a night.

Here's where the story takes an amazing twist. This man Nathan, the mouthpiece of God to the King of Israel, spoke from his heart to David. However, he had not consulted the Lord.

As usually happens, God had a different plan. And while the prophet was in his house that night, the Lord visited him. God's words were very simple and though they are not recorded you get the unmistakable impression that the Lord hinted, "Nathan, you didn't hear from me. This is not my plan." "Go and tell David what I have to say, not what you think I would do."

I don't think it was a major rebuke. I think God understood it was two friends talking and trying to do something right. The lesson here is that even though you may be used by God at times in prophetic gifts - Prophecy, the Word of Wisdom or Knowledge - you don't always use them. Sometimes you are just an ordinary human being. You use logic as best you can, and you try to make good judgment calls. Nothing wrong with this unless God is trying to say something else.

Nathan didn't ask God about David's plans. Nevertheless, God had something to say to Nathan about David's plans. Without going into all the detail - you can read it yourself - let me give you a brief synopsis.

God told Nathan to ask David, "Did I ask you to build me a house? In fact did I ever ask any leader of Israel to build me a house?" And He follows with this, "David, I chose you when you were the least of your father's house. When you were not even in your father's house, but in the pasture tending sheep, I saw something in you that touched my heart - your heart." "It was upon me and after me and towards me." "It was pure, and possessed, and fervent." "So I'll tell you what I'm going to do." "I'm going to make you great among the nation and will give you a name that is great among men."

And finally, "You sought to build me a house, but I'm going to build you a house." "I'm going to make a great lineage from your body." I will take your son, place him on a throne, and establish his kingdom - and your throne." Well, we all know that Jesus came from the lineage of David and has a kingdom that will never fail.

Most people wouldn't want to have the prophet come back to them and say, "Oops, I made a mistake." "I should have consulted God before I agreed with your plan." But in this case it turned out good. In fact, it turned out better.

Let God in on your plans, He wants you to be in on His.

Help From Your Enemies

2005-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

While searching the scriptures for material to present in our Small Group Ministry, I came across a passage that brought new understanding. I'll share it with you in a minute, but first a little background.

Our church has been focusing on outreach. This year, our unofficial motto is "Operation Outreach." Every event, every function, every special endeavor is directed at reaching souls for Jesus. As you can imagine we have stirred up a hornet's nest of opposition. Not from man, nor amongst ourselves, but from principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places.

I went up into the foothills of Peavine Peak the other day for prayer and meditation. On the way, up above me, I noticed a pagan altar set up in a high place. Some have asked how I knew it was a pagan altar. My judgment is based on a couple of facts, 1) there were virtually identical altars set up on Mt. Shasta, in a known pagan enclave, when I did some climbing there and 2) there was an Earth Day celebration here in Reno, which brought out many pagans and earth worshipers.

I will not stand for the enemies of God to gain any stronghold in our city so I ascended to the place where the altar was and I tore it down. Similar events are recorded in the Old Testament, and I feel that passive Christianity is an oxymoron, so down it came!

After I tore it down I spent most of my prayer and meditation time there. However, when I looked around I saw two more altars set up in high places nearby. I had not intended to climb higher that morning, but the Lord did not want me leaving my job unfinished. So I ascended to their locations and tore them down as well. By the way, I tore down the Mt. Shasta altars, save one. (Why I left one standing, I don't know, but it won't happen again.)

Needless to say, Reno is a city in desperate need of Christ. Many are the adversaries of Christ and His followers here in this city. There has been a major influx of Californians to the area, which is alright, except that some of them bring overt paganism and an antichrist spirit with them when they come here.

We don't mind the fight. In fact, without some spiritual opposition we tend to grow fat and complacent to the true needs of this community. So we rallied ourselves into prayer and fasting and spiritual warfare. We will win. I read the back of the book! We cannot lose. No matter what the enemy sends our way, no matter who he uses, no matter his technique, we will win! God said it, that settles it!

Back to my original comment, you remember, the one about renewed spiritual insight to a passage of scripture. The gospels of Matthew and Luke have many similar passages, but I am using Luke's today. This is what it says...

"Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.
(Luke 6:22-23 ESV)

Notice in the middle of verse 23 the statement, "behold, your reward is great in heaven;" Talk about something only God can do! When we are reviled here on earth for Jesus' sake God adds to our account in heaven. Free blessings, added by God to our long-term eternal investment account.

When you think that the enemy of your soul just might win, think about this verse and realize that even if you lose everything here because of your faith in Christ, God converts it into His economic standard and sets it aside for you.

So, even though you think your enemy is hurting you, he really is only helping you. Thank you Lord for looking out for our eternal interests! And remember, what they mean for evil, God means for good.

You could almost, almost, change that old statement from, "With friends like them, who needs enemies," into "With enemies like them..." Well, we all need friends, so I'll leave it at that. But God, in His infinite wisdom and unsearchable riches, shows again His steadfast love for those that will live righteously.

So, fear not, and fight on!

The Joy of Hearing

2005-04-27T22:57:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I was taking this blog offline until I heard from the Lord. I needed to be reminded by Him of my purpose, His character and His will for my life.

Many challenges have presented themselves to me lately. I would say that I rose to the occasion, but I believe the reality of it was that I fell to the occasion. And being on your knees is a good place to be if you want to be in God's presence.

What has been most important was to re-examine the priorities in my life. What is most important, not to me, but to Him? What can I do better, what should I eliminate? If I am called of God to be a teacher, and I believe that to be the case, then what would He have me teach about Him?

This blog has been dedicated to the tender side of the Lord, His mercies and His lovingkindness. It is not intended to be based on easy-believism, and you can trust me on that! But it is devoted to presenting the side of Christ that many people need. Trust me also when I say that there is a lot of evil in the world - evil that God will judge. There is no doubt about God's stance on those items.

Therefore, I have started a second blog, www.coyotegrowling.blogspot.com that is directed at the evils of our day as well as the remedy - Jesus. I have placed a cross-referencing link at both blog sites so you can easily switch between the two.

I mentioned earlier that I had sought the Lord's voice for my present situation. Let me establish that if you feel that the Spirit of the Lord is saying something to you, His word will back it up. Putting it another way God's Spirit does not contradict His Word. Count on it. The Bible declares that we are to try the spirits, but to accept that the Word of God will stand.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
(1 John 4:1 ESV)

You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me,
(John 5:39 ESV)

The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.
(Isaiah 40:8 ESV)

In Acts, Chapter 17, the Berean believers where called noble because that not only did they receive the spoken word they also searched the scripture daily to see if what they heard could be backed up by scripture.

When I diligently sought the Lord - in quiet, in solitude, in earnest - He spoke to me through His Word what His Spirit had spoken to me earlier. Thus, in the mouth of two witnesses it is established.

In case you're wondering, this is what He spoke to me...

Thus says the LORD: "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD."
(Jeremiah 9:23-24 ESV)

God's nature is firmly established in those three elements - His love, justice and righteousness. All three of them are required as well for those that follow Him. You and I must have an understanding of His love for all humanity, sinners and saints, present and future. We must equally understand that His justice will separate the wheat from the chaff. It may not happen today, but it will happen! And finally, we must understand His righteousness. A righteousness that He extends to those of us willing to pursue hard after Him and His cause.

Turn down the music, turn off the tube, get quiet, get alone and get a word from God.

Taking Time to Listen

2005-04-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?
(1 Kings 19:11-13 KJV)

Winds and earthquakes and fires happen to us all, but to hear the voice of God is the only real way of understanding what He is trying to say.

I am taking my blog offline so that I can hear the voice of God.

Altar Ego

2005-04-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read it right. I did not misspell "altar." So many times in the church realm I notice that people use the word "alter" instead of "altar." For instance, they make reference to an "alter of prayer," when they mean "altar of prayer." I know of no alternate to prayer, but I do know that an experience at an altar of prayer alters a lot of circumstances.

The psychological definition of "Alter Ego" is "another side of oneself; a second self." Houghton Mifflin's eReference dictionary uses this definition along with another one, "An intimate friend or a constant companion."

There seems to be two sides to each of us. (If you have more than that, you probably need more help than my blog can give you!) These two sides can be seen as "What I want to do" and "What I actually do." Another way of stating it might be "Who I want to be" and "Who I wind up being."

Here's Houghton Mifflin's definition of ego.

The self, especially as distinct from the world and other selves.
In psychoanalysis, the division of the psyche that is conscious, most immediately controls thought and behavior, and is most in touch with external reality.
An exaggerated sense of self-importance; conceit.
Appropriate pride in oneself; self-esteem.

I find these terms to be more than adequate for a reasonable understanding of our ego. It's the part of us that is most in touch with external reality. It also can either be an appropriate or inappropriate sense of oneself. Herein lies the real situation.

Most of us want to do lofty, noble deeds. We want to be the person who helps the elderly cross the street, even if we don't get the merit badge. We want to rescue the cat from the tree, the homeless from their affliction, the innocent from the mean. We see in ourselves the potential for these things. And at times we actually do them. But far too often we let other things get in the way. We don't do the things we want to do.

The apostle Paul, the Great Evangelist as some call him, struggled with this very issue. In the seventh chapter of the Book of Romans, Paul illustrates in almost poetic terms the battles that rage within himself. He wants to do what is right, but doesn't. He doesn't want to do what's wrong, but does.

It summons to oneself the distress and pain of "our second self," our "alter ego." My alter ego is someone I never want you to meet. Sometimes he creeps out of hiding, but with God's help I stuff him back in the hole where he belongs. Perhaps your alter ego and my alter ego know each other. Wow, the stories they could tell! What scares me most about this is the second definition of alter ego which is, "a constant companion."

Can you see it now? I'm walking down the street being a nice guy, helping little old ladies cross the street and all of a sudden here comes a man on a moped. So my alter ego jumps up and pushes one of the little ladies into his path. Sounds sick doesn't it? (That's why I didn't use a Greyhound Bus in my example.) It really sounds like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The same person with two dramatic, diametrically opposed personalities.

Not many of us live lives that are that extreme, but we do find ourselves in the constant struggle to be what we want to be.

Allow me to introduce the altar. An altar is not a pretty place. In Old Testament times the altar was used for the gory, bloody ritual of animal sacrifice. Back then we would have to bring an animal for the priests to sacrifice for our sins. If you do a study on biblical sacrifice you will be amazed at how many animals were offered on different occasions.

The altar, though not pretty, is essential. The altar is where you and I make sacrifice for ourselves. It where you and I make sacrifice OF ourselves. The Bible declares that we are to be "living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God." (Romans 12:1) I'm really thankful for that part about "living!"

The altars in my life have pretty much been centered around one thing. My ego. Trying to get it right. Trying to be the nice guy all the time. Trying to do the right things all the time. Trying to help the unfortunate, the downtrodden, the castoffs of the world. But since I'm human, I don't always get it right, even though I want to. That's why I have an altar. So that my "altar ego" wins over my "alter ego."

With God's help, and a well-used altar, we can all be what we want to be.

Relatively Speaking

2005-04-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

We've all seen it before. It happens with an alarming frequency. Bad things happening to good people and good things happening to bad people. We wish it weren't so, but it is.

We've all heard stories of how the bad guy gets away or gets off easy. Just the other day I saw a news item that says capital punishment by lethal injection may be painful!? Ya think? I'm not going to go into the whole capital punishment issue, unless you want me to, but come on, do you think these convicted murderers were at all concerned with causing pain to their victims?

The flip side of this is that far too often the good guy gets wronged. Some person, innocently minding their own business and, wham, out of nowhere tragedy or some form of evil strikes. We really feel for these people, because occasionally, we are the recipients of the unwanted events.

This is just part of life as I've witnessed it. Misfortune and injustice happens to all at some time or other. Back-stabbed by friends, maligned by family, wrong place at the wrong time. These are just a few of the things that happen to those that don't deserve it.

You can get into the middle of a fight and while trying to break it up you get injured. Good Samaritan intentions with Dark Cloud results. Ever been there? Of course you have.

When we walk down Bad Luck Parkway and get run over by a bus full of bad stuff we immediately begin to feel sorry for ourselves. Then as we re-tell the story we get to feeling more and more pity for ourselves. We want others to join our little party, because misery truly loves company.

The worst thing that we can do though is magnify our actual injury by comparing ourselves with the truly unfortunate. Let me give you an example. Multiple trials come your way in a very short timeframe and you are bewildered. All of a sudden you begin to compare your situation to Job, one of the two most maligned men in the Bible. Or you've been betrayed by a close associate and next you compare yourself to Jesus (the most maligned man) being betrayed by Judas.

Here's the trouble with these comparisons. Job lost everything but his wife in one day. Then he was smitten with boils from the top of his head to the tips of his toes. (Boils are very painful. I've had them before. Oops, see there I go! Me and Job, two good guys with bad fortunes.) But honestly how many times have you lost everything in one day? I can't think of too many people. But since it happened to Job, I guess it could happen to others.

We may have had it bad but not as bad as some. Consider Joseph from the Book of Genesis. Wronged by his brothers because of his conceit, and sold into slavery. Then through incredible circumstances he rises to prominence in Egypt only to fall victim to the unwanted attention of the bosses wife. After acting righteously and trying to get away from her, she cries rape and he is sentenced to prison.

This has never happened to me or anybody I know. Man, could you ever plead victimization if it happened to you! But Joseph didn't. He took it in stride. I don't think he wrote songs about it or danced with joy over his situation, but I do believe that he took a mature look at it and rode it out. And the ending was pretty good. (Go read it youself.)

Back to the betrayal of Jesus. This is where it should come into focus for all of us. Jesus was betrayed by a close associate. Jesus had invested time, love and effort into this man and was about to commission him to become a founding member of the greatest movement to ever hit the planet. By Judas sold him out for a measly amount of money.

You and I may have been sold out by someone close to us, but please let's not compare ourselves to Jesus. The difference - Jesus was innocent. He was as innocent as possible. And He was righteous.

What happens to you and I may be unjust, but do you really want justice? Well, I want justice when I'm being wronged, but not when I'm doing wrong! So for me to find equilibrium in this, (you know, the balanced scale thing) I need to just accept that because the world is filled with unrighteous men and women bad things will happen to good people. Even if we're not as good as we'd like to think!

So let's keep it relative. I've never suffered as much as Job, and I've never been as righteous as Jesus. But by His grace and justification I can keep trying to be like Him. And when wrong comes... Oh well, it's just one of those things that happen.

Don't blame God. He didn't do it. He gave us free will and we make choices. Some good, some bad. He sees and He knows. And He will take care of you and your situation. Trust Him.

In the words of the Psalmist David, who had more than his fair share of enemies and trials,

I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread. (Psalms 37:25 ESV)

Now go and be good. Relatively speaking.

Blurred Vision

2005-04-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have to grow old, but I don't have to be happy about it. I'm turning "L" this year (think Roman numerals) and I'm having a difficult time with the reality of it. It reached a milestone last Sunday when I suffered a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

If you've never had one, they're scary. I you have had one then you know I'm telling the truth. (I had one twenty years ago as well.) This is how mine unfolded. I was playing racquetball with my son and our pastor. I'm older than both, so I play harder to keep up with them. I played four games and was feeling tired yet good because I won the last game. We went back to the apartment for dessert and fellowship when I noticed something not right.

I noticed that my vision was weird. I was looking at a price on a box of tea and the left side part of the number wasn't totally visible to me. Others saw it but I didn't. Then I began to look at photos on the wall and noticed the same thing. The left portion of my field of vision was gone in each eye. When I closed my right eye, I saw nothing in the left side of my left eye. When I closed my left eye, I saw nothing in the left side of my right eye. Realizing that I was having a serious problem I asked those present to pray for me. A short while later it seemed that my vision had returned for the most part.

A little while later we left for home. I drove (probably not a good idea!) but I felt weird all the way home. Then as we pulled into the garage my left forearm and hand went completely numb.

OK! This got my attention! I strongly suggested to my wife that she get me to the hospital as quickly as possible. She wanted to call an ambulance, but I didn't want to wait for it. Besides she drove an ambulance during her EMT career, and I totally trusted her driving skills.

When we got to the Emergency Room I got presidential treatment. The staff was tremendous. In short order I received an IV with thinning agents, Oxygen, EKG, CT scan, Echocardiogram, Carotid Artery ultrasound, etc. Later I was admitted to the hospital and would undergo MRI and MRA and associated bloodwork.

The next 40 hours were very boring, because I felt great and wanted to go home. The doctors and staff wanted me to go home also, but be well enough to go home. I'm OK now and back at work. Thanks to all who prayed for me!

Here's an observation to consider. We have a vision for our life, our family, our church, etc. We have made plans, refined them and modified them as needed. We stay in the groove and we try to keep things steady. All of a sudden something comes along to steal our vision!

What's amazing to me is our vision is real, our goals also real. Like the pictures on the wall, they're tangible, touchable, able to be handled. But something has blurred our sight. We wonder what is wrong. We get anxious and wonder if this is the end. If this end, well, there's nothing we can do about it. But rarely is it the end.

So get help, ask someone if they see what you have seen. Do they see what you know is there. Have them support you with prayer. Let them provide assistance through a difficult time. When it's done, you will have closer relationships and a greater appreciation for your vision.

Get the picture?

It Should Be Obvious, But Is It?

2005-04-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

I was preparing a sermon a couple of weeks ago and was thinking about how to deliver what I had felt inspired to speak on. One thing kept coming back to me - the simplicity of the gospel.

I have seriously studied Christianity (and other religions) for almost 25 years. I have read many, many books on many, many topics. I have read different peoples ideas on who, or what, God is. I have studied Trinitarian doctrine and Oneness doctrine. I have looked into Nestorianism, Sabellianism, Monarchianism, Modalistic doctrine and seemingly a plethora of others as well. (And that doesn't even include polytheistic, atheistic, animistic or other studies.)

While I appreciate the amount of hours "theologians" spend in study, I think that too often we overlook the simplicity of the gospel. Don't get me wrong, I get jazzed reading and studying theological references. They are my favorite. I even have a few unpublished ideas of my own.

I have recently been introduced to the works of an author whose writings are in my humble opinion far-fetched. Really, really, really far-fetched. No apparent scriptural basis, mostly supposition, conjecture and distortion of plainly written verses. Whether God gives insight to a select few that supersedes what He gives to other Spirit-filled men and women is a debate we can take up later. For my money, "there is nothing new under the sun" and God certainly hasn't changed Himself.

Back to my train of thought. Theological treatises have there place. It's right up there with other reference material. I can't get enough of the good ones and I've had too much of the bad ones. But there is a difference in what the world needs.

Meat or milk. Both provide nourishment to the body (sorry vegans) but whereas most can handle milk, not all can digest meat. Some are just too young. The apostle Paul stated as much. And this youthfulness is a spiritual measure and not just a natural thing.

So here's my thought for today. Regardless of whether God has wings, wheels, or white teeth, He loves us. You and me. And He only thinks of our good. Isn't that simple and obvious?

Perhaps not, because far too many of us don't see God as the loving, caring father of humanity. We see Him as a mean old judge, just waiting to flick us off His planet. Or perhaps you see Him as a trickster, only wanting to see how much pain and suffering He can inflict on you. If so, we are sadly missing the point.

God's love shows for us not only in the beautiful world He created for us, but in so many other ways. God gave me a wonderful wife for a companion. In the truest sense of the word "help meet" she saves me from myself. He has given us wonderful children and grandchildren. He has blessed us with good employment, a great church and tremendous friendships. In all of these blessings we have trials and hardships. But these are to benefit us as well.

Even beyond that the ultimate show of His love was while we were yet sinners Jesus Christ died for us. He didn't have to, unless of course he wanted us to be saved. He did. And then we went beyond that. He adopted us by His Spirit. Sounds pretty nice to me.

Pretty simple, too. Maybe you haven't seen it or realized it because of the fog of theology. I sometimes wonder what us "experts" are going to really learn about Him when we stand before Him. I'm expecting it will be both amazing and loving. He's like that, you know.

I hope it's a little more obvious to you now. Go on and enjoy His love.

Searching For Completeness

2005-03-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

Guilty as charged. No alibi, no justification, no weak excuses. I admit it. I am guilty of something that I don't even know the name of. It could be possessiveness, but I just thought of giving it away. It could be stinginess, but it was being shared at the time my guilt was manifested. So I'll describe it and you tell me what it's called.

A lid. A simple round lid for a turkey fryer. But it was missing when I went to put the set back into storage. I began the search. Then it happened. My facial expression changed and people knew I was upset. I wasn't yelling and I didn't accuse anyone, but I was upset and it showed. My wife tells me that I can't hide my emotions. I'm not sure I can. I have one of those faces, and it's not a poker face. You see me, you read me.

But the reason I was upset was because with the lid missing the set is incomplete. And based on that simple fact, I have placed value on that lid. You may say, "it's only a lid" and you would be right, but I think there's more to it. Let me explain.

I have an antique Monopoly set. I don't know how old it is, but the box says "Patent Pending." The money is very basic, the Community Chest and Chance cards have no drawings of the old guy, and the houses and hotels are wooden. The big problem is that somewhere along the line I lost the board. How much less is that set without it? I think the difference is night and day. I don't think there's any considerable value to an incomplete set.

So the lid to the turkey fryer is important to me in that it completes the set. Therefore, I surmise, the lid is as valuable as the entire set. Hence, my desperate search for it.

We've often heard the phrase, "Is that all there is?" Its companion is "There has to be more." I think these phrases apply across a broad spectrum. Take for instance your own existence. How often do you deem your live less valuable because of incompleteness? You wonder if you are accomplishing all that you are supposed to, but you really wonder what you are here for.

Rick Warren wrote an excellent book "The Purpose Driven Life" that illustrates the various purposes our lives are designed to fulfill. While I'm not plugging his book, it is a good read and I suggest you read it if you haven't. You may soon realize that there really is more. And you have a good shot at completeness.

Understand this, God places value on a complete set also. And He considers you a part of His set. Three parables deal with the search for completeness. The shepherd searching for the one sheep missing from the fold, the woman searching for her tenth silver coin, and the father waiting for the return of his prodigal son. The fold was incomplete, the silver coin collection was incomplete, and the father's family was incomplete.

You are important to God. So much so that He sent His son, Jesus, to die for your sins and enable you to be a part of the family again. This too is a great story and worthy of reading and rereading.

Consider the verses that follow:

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
(Galatians 3:26-29 KJV)

Put another way:

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
(Colossians 2:10 KJV)

What a nice feeling, being complete. Not just so that you "are all there" but because there is intrinsic value to being a part of something bigger than yourself.

So even if you feel you're just a part of the turkey frying set you are as valuable as the entire set.

Now put a lid on it and get involved.

Balancing Act

2005-02-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

I was watching little Hannah the other day. A friends kid, she is learning to walk. Crawling to walking to running seems to take only a couple of weeks. But Sunday it seemed that she found spots on the earth where gravity was greatest. I call them gravity storms. It kept pulling her down. But she kept getting up. I'll bet in the end she wins. She will have found balance.

I remember teaching my kids to ride bikes. There were times that you wondered if they would ever be able to. A crash into the neighbors car or the brick retaining wall around the corner seemed to stifle their own hopes as well. But they persisted and soon you hear, "Look dad, no hands!" They mastered the fine art of balance on the bike.

Did you ever try to walk on one those playground beams. You know the ones that are about 12" off the ground. They are pretty easy to walk on because you can't fall too far. Perhaps the worst you could do was skin the side of your ankle bone if you slipped off.

I don't remember the first time I walked on one, but I'm sure the challenge was only in keeping my balance. I doubt that I had any fear, because I really didn't have anywhere to fall. There was simply no time to yell "Heeeelllllpppp Mmmmooooommmmm, Iiiiiiii'mmmmm Fffffaaalllinnnngg! If you tried that you would really have to pretend you were atop the Empire State Building.

But as I got older I began to try walking on higher things. Fences were really difficult if the top rail was round pipe, but flat boards were okay. When I got into construction I could walk on some beams, but I was really uncomfortable unless there was something really close by to grab onto. Have you noticed that some iron workers and carpenters seem to be able to walk on these things as if they were squirrels on a power line? Why is that? Simply because they have experience. And confidence came from experience.

If you have ever fallen off a roof you know it's a scary couple of seconds. When you fall, and if you survive without any breaks, you are told to get back up there right away. If you don't the Fear Factor sets in and you now face a greater challenge. It may be the same thing you've done for months or years, but now you have the distasteful memory of gravity's last victory. Oh to have spider feet!

Well I've noticed that in many instances in life we learn to walk the fine line between success and failure. Take raising kids for example. If you don't discipline them they will run amok and won't learn the valued lessons of the disciplined life. On the other hand if you discipline them too much you run the risk of damaging their spirit and their respect for you. Both extremes are unproductive for you and your children. Been there, done that.

So we look for the balance in this and in all things. I could elaborate but I think you already get the picture. There is one area though that I want to expound on. It's the balance of a spiritual life.

We are made up of spirt and flesh. We spend parts of our day in each realm. To break it down even simpler there are actions that we do routinely and there are thoughts that we think we should be doing. Consider the person who is working on task all day long, yet he knows his co-worker is going through a stressful time in their life. He wants to talk to them yet sometimes he holds back. This is made more difficult if we feel God is the prompter, because we fear failure greater if we look like Fools of Faith.

It seems that all too often we walk in the fleshly, natural realm and God interrupts us with a prompting to do some task for him. That spiritual moment is the substance of change for so many situations, yet many times it challenges us be what we want to be. We all dream of doing God's will and helping someone, yet when push comes to shove we can't find the balance point.

For us to be effective we must find equilibrium in our character. When our spirit directs us to act, our fleshly vessel must make the requisite transit from fear to faith and from doubt to deed. Otherwise we quench the Spirit and realize that we have fallen off the balance beam. Another failed opportunity, another doubt to overcome. Unless we get back on the beam and finish our walk, it will be harder next time. And who will that benefit? No one.

If I've spoken to you today, it's because God asked me to. He wants you to be your best and he needs to use you for his work. After all who else can do it if you're the only spiritually minded person present?

So get back on the beam and repeat after me, "Look Lord, no hands!"

Be Still and Know Love

2005-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Another day, another thought? Not necessarily. I use this blog as a warm-up tool to get the creative juices flowing. But to write at the request of someone is the epitome of what I'm trying to accomplish with this hobby of writing.

I went to my computer Saturday morning and I had a request from a wonderful person, who just happens to be my youngest daughter. She asked me to keep writing. It's a way for her to keep in touch with what's going on in my cranial cavity. You see she's a couple hundred miles away from us and most of her telephone conversations are with my wife. So it makes me feel great to see a request from her to digitize my thoughts into readable characters.

As a young mom, she works very hard (as all young moms do) trying to keep the household moving on a steady keel while the seas of life slam hard against the hull. I state this only to let you know that in addition to the routines of life, she and her husband have been dealing with a tricky medical situation. Their daughter (my precious granddaughter) has had symptoms that mimic some very serious, potentially life-threatening, physical conditions. Throw that into the sea and you almost have "the perfect storm."

I say all that to let you, the reader, know that even though they have faith, we don't have assurances that everything works out the way that we want it to. And they and we know that our faith in God is strong enough to see us through trying times. It's just that we don't want to have to go through anything like this. Not that God doesn't care, or that our faith is weak, it's just that nobody wants the little girl or her parents to suffer. Without rambling too much, let me just boil it down to concern for emotional and physical well-being.

So here's my train of thought on my daughter's request. She looks to my writing as a diversion. She looks for hope. She looks to see my love for her showing through my words. Though I've told her many times that I love her she still needs to see it. In spoken words, in writing, in actions.

I want her to know, as well as our other children, that I love them deeply. If there were any way that I could trade place with her I'd do it in a heartbeat. That's the way Daddy's are supposed to love their families. But it's not just because we're told to, it's because we want to protect them from every bad thing. But I operate in a realm of realism, a realm of finite options, actions and reactions. Some things I just can't do anything about. There are some things I just don't know the mechanism to change things. These are outside of my realm. I do know someone who does operate in that realm, the realm of the spirit, the infinite, the unseen. And I'd like to spill the beans about Him.

He loves us tremendously. He cares for our cares whether they be emotional, physical or whatever. He's a great role model for all fathers. By the way, did I mention his name? If you haven't guessed it's Jesus Christ and he is God Almighty.

A word about his word. Have you noticed that many people say that the Bible is just a book of rules and regulations? Obviously they don't see the spirit in which it was written. Manifestly, his book is a collection of love letters to us. Written for us to read in the good times and the bad. Written to comfort us, to correct us, to challenge us. But mostly just to let us know that even though we seem to be far away, he wants us to know how much he loves us.

Psalms 46 contains this perspective on the situation:

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof... Be still, and know that I am God... (Psalms 46:1-3,10 KJVR)

So let the seas rage, let the winds blow, let the mountains fall down. I know that God loves me. And I love mine.

Be still and know God.

In The Will

2005-02-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

This was the first time I recall this ever happening to me. It came somewhat out of the blue. We had been discussing the development of one department of the business, what it would take, who would run what portion, etc. Usual stuff based on my years in the industry.

Then it happened. One moment we were discussing business and the next I was being called aside for a private talk. During this conversation (actually he was talking and I was listening) the owner stated his concerns for keeping the company running in the event of his untimely demise.

He has wanted to start a business with Christian ideals, motivations and goals. I have lent moral support as well as Bible-based check and balance. I definitely feel that we need more businesses run under the umbrella of God's principles, so I wholeheartedly endorse the enterprise.

Then it happened. Oh yeah, I already said that. His intention is to keep the business going in the event of his passing. Oh yeah, I already said that too. So, here's the good part. He notified me that I am written into his will along with his sons. Half-owner of the company, should that day come. At first I only thought of the elements of his statements, the impact not having quite been realized. Later I called to thank him for his generous gesture.

While pondering the many responsibilities and opportunities that would become manifest if this should occur, I then saw an amazing comparison. You may have already seen where I'm going with this, but in case you haven't there is a distinct parallel between this and the way the Lord works.

Within the realms of man, we try to build castles, communities, homes, buildings, roads, bridges, etc. We do this with the intent of carrying on our legacy and providing a place for our descendants to live and work with the same values and goals that drive us.

The same dynamic is involved in God's kingdom. He has laid down a plan for us that provides for our needs and protection. If we follow his plan a heritage develops that can be transferred generationally. But the higher good in all of this is that God calls us into his family, right alongside of his son Jesus.

Sure, we know that the Son of God is God. We know that God robed himself in flesh and walked the earth as Jesus. The Gospel of John tells us...

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

But God's plan was that we too, would become sons of God for the purpose of fellowship with him and the continuation of his work here on earth. We achieve this sonship by the New Birth experience demonstrated in Acts 2:38, and many other verses.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (John 1:12, emphasis mine)

To receive his Spirit is to receive him. For likewise in Romans 8, we see this truth:

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; ... (Romans 8:15-17)

To be a son of God without understanding our mission is likened to a child that never listens to their parent. The day will come when you are to go out and make your mark on the world but you haven't got a clue where to begin.

Our mission and calling is greater than the mission of building a company. Our mission and calling is to reconcile lost humanity with the God who created and loves them. And they know it!
For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. (Romans 8:19 ESV)

All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:18-20 ESV, emphasis mine)

So know that you have this understanding, count your blessing, grab your tools and let's continue to build the Kingdom of God. Multitudes are counting on you. God is counting on you.

After all He's written you in His Will.

Service With a Smile

2005-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

She serves. From the moment she arises, her day is filled with serving others. Maybe it's the kiss I always give her when I'm leaving and she's still sleeping. I doubt it, though. I think it's the other way around. I kiss her because of her never ending service to all.

She is my wife. Almost 29 years have passed since the wedding day and quite honestly, I've never met anyone who does so much for so many and asks nothing in return. (I can say that because I never met Mother Teresa!) I don't know how she does it. I wish I had her drive mechanism. Oh don't get me wrong, I go on and on and on, but I seem to get tired before she does.

She makes sure things are done around the house. Putting the dogs outside and making sure they have drinking water. In the evening she makes sure they get fed. She follows behind me and the boys trying to "encourage" us to clean up after ourselves. It's easy to "forget to" when you know she'll be by. She works hard all day as a teacher's aide for special needs children. She's as dependable as anything I've known. She helps me in my ministry, our pastor's wife in hers, the church in whatever way she's asked, and countless other endeavors. She prays when she doesn't have time, works out at the ladies' gym, and comes home willing to take on whatever else needs to be done.

She serves. I don't know what else to say. Except, I'm glad she's my wife. Oh yeah, and she's my best friend. I've never had a closer one. And yes, she never gets much recognition for her service - and she's fine with it. (In fact, if she ever reads this she'll probably say that I'm exaggerating.)

There's a little irony to this story however. In the book "The Five Love Languages," written by Dr. Gary Chapman, it is "acts of service" that she needs the most. Not that she needs to do acts of service, but that I need to do them for her. I try, but I must admit I quite often fall short of the mark.

If you ever want to know how much you are loved and cared for consider how much someone does for you. Maybe it's time to let them know how much you appreciate their service to you.

You see, I know that lately she's been a little fatigued. Slightly worn out. In fact, down right tired. I try to help her. I encourage her to quit some things, take some time off and rest.

She won't stop though. There is work to be done. Needs to be met. People to be served, which is OK by her.

Because she serves.

Thanks for the Opportunity

2005-01-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

It's a unique word - opportunity. Without checking etymology I can give you a definition. It means that you have been awarded choice with a potential reward.

Opportunity is like ether. It surrounds us. We live, walk, eat, sleep, love, work, in the realm of opportunity. I've heard people speak of the opportunities that are given to us by being American. But being American is not a prerequisite. It is an inalienable right given to each of us by God. People living under the most subversive, oppressive governments are still given opportunity.

Not all opportunity has to do with money. Each day we have the opportunity to embrace a loved one, embrace a challenge, embrace our ideals. Each day I have the opportunity to choose. I can choose to get out of bed, or stay under the covers. I can choose to go to work or stay home. I can choose to say "I love you" to my wife or let her wonder.

You see, every choice has rewards or consequences. And that frames our opportunities. I choose to be thankful for the opportunities presented to me each and every day. I like the potential rewards.

So, wake up and be thankful for the opportunity God has given you today.

Snow Park

2005-01-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. (PS, It's January!) Snow everywhere. Plows and crews working tirelessly to clear streets for buses, ambulances, cars and trucks.

A big snow storm swept through the area between December 28 and January 11. It dumped over 6' of snow in the Reno area. Two weeks later and there are still cars buried in snow on our street. Amazing, hauntingly beautiful icicles hang three and four deep along the edges of our roof. We've had some extend downward about six feet. Bushes bent under the weight of the snow expose portions of the landscape that we haven't seen since we've moved in. Get the picture? Lots of snow in lots of places, including the street in front of our house.

So, my oldest son goes out and shovels snow and ice away from the front of the curb to make a parking place for his car. He parks there when he gets home from work. A couple of days go by and all seems well. Then last Thursday he comes home and the next door neighbor has parked his car in the cleared area - which happens to abut the uncleared area in front of his house. I don't think he's moved the car since, let alone shovel the snow in front of his house. A little disconcerting, but hey, we'll survive.

As a remedy I go out last Thursday evening and begin to clear another area for my sons car. It took between 2-3 hours of nonstop work to break the 4" of crusted ice enough to get a car in the space. A little bit of rock salt completed the job and my son had a nice spot in which to park his car.

Until Saturday that is, when another neighbor parked in that spot! Oh well, I won't complain anymore because first of all it's cathartic venting in this blog and secondly because I'm not about to clear all of the remaining spots in the neighborhood!

In the end it comes down to the simple matter of doing what needs to be done and doing what's right for all. I remember the days when the younger me would have gladly shoveled snow in front of my neighbor's house, just to help them out.

Besides, someday I might park my car in the spot wherein someone else labored.

Deeper Treasure

2005-01-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

You've seen it before. You or someone else has prepared a gift bag with tissue and a card. The recipient opens the card and reads it. Then they reach into the tissue and pull out the gift. If all goes well, they smile gleefully and appreciatively thank you for the gift. But you know that's not all. There's more. It's a little deeper in the bag, further down among the tissue, near the bottom.

For the moment the one who has received the gift is unaware of the additional treat in the bag and if not for you tipping them off they might not realize there's more. They might even put the bag aside without further checking. But you want them to have it all so you say, "there's more."

For most of this past year my wife and I have had the wonderful experience of visiting a retirement center on Wednesday nights and studying the Bible with a group of great people. The name of the center is Sky Peaks, it's here in Reno, and it is very nice place. My wife semi-jokingly quips that she wants to move in. (We're still a long way from retirement, though.)

Our little class consists of very nice people in their eighties and nineties. All of them have lived Christian lives since before my parents were even thought of. When first we started, I felt somewhat awkward "teaching" those who have been around the block a time or two. Dr. Keeler, one of the attendees, retired from the ministry around the time my wife and I were having our first children. Those kids now have kids, so you get an idea of his rich experience.

But we have been able to share vignettes of Bible characters, expound prophetic visions from both Testaments, delve into the background of stories they've heard dozens of time. It has been exhilarating to hear them comment on the new found deeper treasure. To see smiles spread across their faces as they come closer to the God who loves us all. To be reminded, once again, that God chooses whom He will to do His work. Ordinary people in extraordinary situations. Husbands and wives, prophets and children, Jews and Gentiles, the esteemed and the simple.

Do you hear God calling you? Do you think that those are old stories for long-ago generations? I know there's more in the package. Dig deeper. It's there. God has more for those who will reach further into the gifts that he has prepared for them.

What has God placed deeper for you? Don't put the bag aside. Look again, and be blessed.

Hurry up and wait

2005-01-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

It took me forever, (at least it seemed like it) to get my son to school and myself to work today. Road conditions, I'm sure. Really bad freezing fog and slippery roads. The recent snowstorms have made considerable impacts on people's lives and schedules. Schools and government offices closed, mail and trash pickup delayed. The usual, when it comes to the unusual.

I remember several years ago, racing to work, speeding through the long parking lot just to get to work about 20 minutes early. Shortly afterwards I heard a co-worker - who I probably passed in a blur, make the observation that some people speed to get to work! It gave me pause. I thought about it for a minute. Rushing home to my family I could understand. But rushing to the millstone to make the requisite revolutions? It was an enlightening moment, which I recalled many, many times over the following years.

Today, I am reminded of what Solomon wrote about in his book Ecclesiastes. After asking the question, "what profit does a man have of all his labor under the sun." He gave us a glimpse with this phrase:
Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labor that I had labored to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun.
(Ecclesiastes 2:11)

I thought about that today. Like lemmings we march to the Sea of Routine. Ours today, someone elses tomorrow. What lasts? Things that we do today become our children's chores tomorrow. And yet while we are here we must occupy our time. So the greater fulfillment is found in the greater cause. I know this cause to be helping people to become better acquainted with the God they should serve.

To fully comprehend what I am stating, I encourage you to read the Book of Ecclesiastes. For in it we find Solomon's observation:

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
(Ecclesiastes 12:13)

Well, back to the millstone.