I am a Christian and have no qualms about admitting so and as a Christian I do my best to live a life that follows the examples that Jesus set for us. Christ taught his followers how to solve differences. It really doesn't matter if you are the one at fault or the other person is at fault. If you have something against your brother or your brother has something against you go to him and tell him he is forgiven. Then you can come back and God will listen to your prayer.
If there is a problem in the church go to the person that is doing wrong and speak with them about it. If the situation isn't corrected then take several others with you and if that doesn't work take the matter before the entire church.
When a person makes a slip-up do not talk about them but just love them and encourage them. If someone is making serious errors in judgment on a continual bases then you should follow the second set of steps.
What you don't want to do is to tell others especially others that are not of your church or have a need to know). If the perceived wrong is strictly personal and nota biblical error, just let it go. Why try to hurt other people.
An example of what I'm talking about is this: a pastor was scheduled for surgery and asked a young man who was just starting out to come and help him while he recovered. The young man came and was accompanied by his fiancée and her mother. The pastor did well enough that he was able to conduct the Sunday morning services but did let the young man preach the evening services. After a couple of months the young man asked the pastor about becoming the associate pastor. The pastor said no as the church was small and he didn't need as associate.
For the next couple of months things went on as they had but changed one day when the younger preacher was asked to take over a small church whose pastor had died. Now it seems, the young preacher now mother-in-law is telling people that the pastor did her son-in-law wrong.
I don't know what the perceived offense was but I do know that what she is doing is not the biblical way of handling things. For the life of me I just don't understand how someone who raised her children in church who claims to be a Christian and who sings at fellowship meetings and sits under many different preacher can be a gossip and backbiter and have no clue as to how a Christian is supposed to handle such matters.
Personally I' like to slap her but as a Christian I'll just have to love her and pray for her.
Thursday, May 09, 2013
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Mother falls out of a party bus
It seems the news is full of tragedies for bachelorettes this morning. It one story 5 women going to a bachelorette party died when a limo caught fire and they were trapped inside. In this story a young mother was on a party bus celebrating at a bachelorette party. She fell out of the emergency door.
In case you aren't aware of what a party bus is, it is really a school bus that someone drives around while other people have a good time. It is a way for lots of people to get from one place to another and still party without having to drive. The idea seems great but those parties do come with risks, especially from how people act when they are having a good time. Sometimes they do foolish things like stick their head out of the window. Sometimes there is a telephone pole or sign post on the side of the road.
In this case the lady was at the back of the bus. Now we all know from riding a school bus in our youth or a city bus or even an airplane one of the rules is that you must be seated while the vehicle is in motion. Even if the emergency door was faulty if the woman had been seated she would not have fallen out.
One of three things happened: Someone opened the door and pushed her out, she opened the door on purpose and jumped, or she was standing near the door and was jostled up against the door by a friend, a bump or her own actions and fell out the door.
A relative has already starting saying stuff that is setting up the bases of a lawsuit. He said "Why wasn't the emergency door secured?" I know he's looking for someone or something to blame other than the victim but he is way out of line with that statement. Emergency doors have to remain open: it is the law and it is that way for a really good reason.
In the Colorado theater shooting some families sued the theater for not providing enough security. People, we have to start thinking for ourselves. Inspect the situation and if the theater doesn't have enough security don't go. if you want to ride a bus and they follow the law and have an emergency door that is working properly and you want it secured, then don't get on the bus. What if there was an accident and you could not crawl to the front of the bus. I would bet you would want an unsecured emergency door then.
Sometimes we get away with doing stupid stuff. Ever run a stop sign and was glad no one was in the intersection but you? Every let your car drift over the center line. No tractor-trailer on the other side, thank goodness. But sometimes we do stupid things and there is a severe price to pay. More than likely that is what happened here.
My condolences to the family and I am deeply sad for the young child who lost her mother.
In case you aren't aware of what a party bus is, it is really a school bus that someone drives around while other people have a good time. It is a way for lots of people to get from one place to another and still party without having to drive. The idea seems great but those parties do come with risks, especially from how people act when they are having a good time. Sometimes they do foolish things like stick their head out of the window. Sometimes there is a telephone pole or sign post on the side of the road.
In this case the lady was at the back of the bus. Now we all know from riding a school bus in our youth or a city bus or even an airplane one of the rules is that you must be seated while the vehicle is in motion. Even if the emergency door was faulty if the woman had been seated she would not have fallen out.
One of three things happened: Someone opened the door and pushed her out, she opened the door on purpose and jumped, or she was standing near the door and was jostled up against the door by a friend, a bump or her own actions and fell out the door.
A relative has already starting saying stuff that is setting up the bases of a lawsuit. He said "Why wasn't the emergency door secured?" I know he's looking for someone or something to blame other than the victim but he is way out of line with that statement. Emergency doors have to remain open: it is the law and it is that way for a really good reason.
In the Colorado theater shooting some families sued the theater for not providing enough security. People, we have to start thinking for ourselves. Inspect the situation and if the theater doesn't have enough security don't go. if you want to ride a bus and they follow the law and have an emergency door that is working properly and you want it secured, then don't get on the bus. What if there was an accident and you could not crawl to the front of the bus. I would bet you would want an unsecured emergency door then.
Sometimes we get away with doing stupid stuff. Ever run a stop sign and was glad no one was in the intersection but you? Every let your car drift over the center line. No tractor-trailer on the other side, thank goodness. But sometimes we do stupid things and there is a severe price to pay. More than likely that is what happened here.
My condolences to the family and I am deeply sad for the young child who lost her mother.
Monday, May 06, 2013
lottery winnings
My old military buddy and I were discussing lottery winnings and he thinks it is a ripoff that the lottery wants to give the winnings out over thirty years. I totally disagree. Now we are not talking about winning a few hundred over even a few thousand and many a little more than a million or two. We're talking about big winnings, the kind that don't just change the direction of your life but changes
everything about your life. let's say 90 million on up to the skies the limit.
If it's ninety million spread over 30 years that's three million a year. In one lump sum you are talking maybe 54 million give or take a million or two either way. Chances are if ones the 54 he will never be worth the ninety million dollars. In fact about the only way he will every accumulate that much is to save the 54 and only withdraw it when it reaches 90 million and that will happen ins , say, 30 years.
Taking the three million leaves almost $5,000.00 a day for thirty years. In vest wisely and it could last the rest of your life and the lives of your children. But even if you are stupid and blow the $3,000,000.00 its okay. Next year you will receive another three million. Screw that up too and there is no real reason to worry. The year after that you will receive another three million. However, it's a different story if you take the lump sum.
For one thing, you never knew you had so many relatives that had great ideas for a successful business but only need a little help getting started. Buying a nice house, one worthy of a millionaire, and of course, a couple of fancy cars and a great vacation. It just wouldn't do if you didn't so something nice for your parents, your siblings and a couple of your closest friends.
Really? You are really going to work Monday? Now I really didn't think so. You have your own idea for a great business.
The trouble with the whole scenario is it cost a lot more to heat and cool and upkeep that big house than you every dreamed that it would and it is too big for you and your spouse to keep up. You had no idea that landscapers and housekeepers costs so much. Running a business was much tougher than you every dreamed it would be and all those friends with bright ideas can attest to the fact that turning a good idea into a profitable business takes more than money. At least it takes more than they have and more than you are willing to let go of.
Yea, all those millions were great for a few years but the money is going fast and the friends went faster. The cars are depreciating and don't look so hot now. They just look broken down and that dream home turned out to be a money pit. All those fancy clothes don't fit now that you have gained so much weight from eating out so often.
It's hard to believe but people still think you are rich and are making your life miserable by begging for money to see them through a rough period or to get their great idea off the ground. You really wish you had your old life back but you can't. You haven't worked in years.
everything about your life. let's say 90 million on up to the skies the limit.
If it's ninety million spread over 30 years that's three million a year. In one lump sum you are talking maybe 54 million give or take a million or two either way. Chances are if ones the 54 he will never be worth the ninety million dollars. In fact about the only way he will every accumulate that much is to save the 54 and only withdraw it when it reaches 90 million and that will happen ins , say, 30 years.
Taking the three million leaves almost $5,000.00 a day for thirty years. In vest wisely and it could last the rest of your life and the lives of your children. But even if you are stupid and blow the $3,000,000.00 its okay. Next year you will receive another three million. Screw that up too and there is no real reason to worry. The year after that you will receive another three million. However, it's a different story if you take the lump sum.
For one thing, you never knew you had so many relatives that had great ideas for a successful business but only need a little help getting started. Buying a nice house, one worthy of a millionaire, and of course, a couple of fancy cars and a great vacation. It just wouldn't do if you didn't so something nice for your parents, your siblings and a couple of your closest friends.
Really? You are really going to work Monday? Now I really didn't think so. You have your own idea for a great business.
The trouble with the whole scenario is it cost a lot more to heat and cool and upkeep that big house than you every dreamed that it would and it is too big for you and your spouse to keep up. You had no idea that landscapers and housekeepers costs so much. Running a business was much tougher than you every dreamed it would be and all those friends with bright ideas can attest to the fact that turning a good idea into a profitable business takes more than money. At least it takes more than they have and more than you are willing to let go of.
Yea, all those millions were great for a few years but the money is going fast and the friends went faster. The cars are depreciating and don't look so hot now. They just look broken down and that dream home turned out to be a money pit. All those fancy clothes don't fit now that you have gained so much weight from eating out so often.
It's hard to believe but people still think you are rich and are making your life miserable by begging for money to see them through a rough period or to get their great idea off the ground. You really wish you had your old life back but you can't. You haven't worked in years.
Retirement advise
I have read the same advise in two different articles about how to maximize your retirement money. According to some experts, it is best to live from your 401(k) or other retirement money and exhaust it before filing for social security thereby increasing your monthly take when you do file. While that is true I think there are some problems with that advise, at least for married people.
Really, the ideal is for the younger spouse (usually the wife who earned less than the husband) to delay taking Social Security until after her husband passes away so that she will have adequate benefits to live on. This plan could possible be the best way for the couple to maximize their income during retirement. It would take some calculating to determine that.
According to the Social Security office, it does not matter if you take payments at 62 or 72, if you just live to the normal age of people born in your birth year, you would receive the exact same total benefit amount, so the benefit of delaying the taking of social security will only be advantageous to one if they live longer than expected. If one takes the money earlier and really doesn't need it then there is no reason one cannot invest the money.
The way I see things, If the husband has x number of dollars in a retirement account and is drawing social security, then it is probable best if the wife, upon retirement, drawn social security and leave her retirement savings alone, contrary to the experts advise. If her and her husband are about the same age and had similar incomes, and they live to their life expectancy or die before that age, and she took her social security, then her retirement savings would have been intact for her heirs but if she had taken the "experts advise" then all of the retirement money would have been spent and the only beneficiary would have been the government.
I do believe she would have been fine with the lower social security amount as the retirement savings would have grown significantly (in all likelihood) in a good retirement investment account or at least held its own in a more conservative account. I know the experts claim she doesn't need her retirement account as her husbands should take care of that but what if he got sick and they spent his on trying to save his life or the family was faced with another catastrophe that claimed a large portion of his retirement account?
Maybe it's just me but I believe it is best to keep ones retirement account and live from a slightly lower social security benefit.
Really, the ideal is for the younger spouse (usually the wife who earned less than the husband) to delay taking Social Security until after her husband passes away so that she will have adequate benefits to live on. This plan could possible be the best way for the couple to maximize their income during retirement. It would take some calculating to determine that.
According to the Social Security office, it does not matter if you take payments at 62 or 72, if you just live to the normal age of people born in your birth year, you would receive the exact same total benefit amount, so the benefit of delaying the taking of social security will only be advantageous to one if they live longer than expected. If one takes the money earlier and really doesn't need it then there is no reason one cannot invest the money.
The way I see things, If the husband has x number of dollars in a retirement account and is drawing social security, then it is probable best if the wife, upon retirement, drawn social security and leave her retirement savings alone, contrary to the experts advise. If her and her husband are about the same age and had similar incomes, and they live to their life expectancy or die before that age, and she took her social security, then her retirement savings would have been intact for her heirs but if she had taken the "experts advise" then all of the retirement money would have been spent and the only beneficiary would have been the government.
I do believe she would have been fine with the lower social security amount as the retirement savings would have grown significantly (in all likelihood) in a good retirement investment account or at least held its own in a more conservative account. I know the experts claim she doesn't need her retirement account as her husbands should take care of that but what if he got sick and they spent his on trying to save his life or the family was faced with another catastrophe that claimed a large portion of his retirement account?
Maybe it's just me but I believe it is best to keep ones retirement account and live from a slightly lower social security benefit.
Saturday, May 04, 2013
Stuff I won't eat
I'm not talking about vegetables as I like most and the ones I don't a little ketchup masks the taste of some and holding my nose and swallowing quickly takes care of the rest. Just because it's meat don't think I'm going to give it a try. I'm a southern born meat and potatoes man so you can keep your strong flavored fish, lamb and most shellfish. If it's not steak, chicken or pork I'm not going to eat it and just because it came from a cow, chicken, or pig doesn't mean I will wither.
Once, after having nothing to eat for three days I refused to consume some K-rations. I just wasn't that hungry yet. I'm not eating fish eggs, even at $100.00 an ounce, any kind of animal product that has not been cooked, especially if it is still alive, a product called tofu, chickpeas, or humus. The mere thought makes me queasy.
Once, after having nothing to eat for three days I refused to consume some K-rations. I just wasn't that hungry yet. I'm not eating fish eggs, even at $100.00 an ounce, any kind of animal product that has not been cooked, especially if it is still alive, a product called tofu, chickpeas, or humus. The mere thought makes me queasy.
Slit decision
Quoted from a Yahoo article decision
"Former Strikeforce lightweight titleholder and current UFC lightweight contender Gilbert Melendez lost a razor-close slit decision to reigning UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson at UFC on Fox 7 on April 20, but gained confidence if the two ever rematch."
MMA Weekly
Maybe it was a split decision. Half of me thinks the word is wrong and the other half thinks maybe it isn't.
Obama says Mexico ready
"President Barack Obama on Friday cast Mexico as a nation ready to take
"its rightful place in the world" and move past the drug battles and violence..."
I about fell out of my chair laughing. ROFLOL
I about fell out of my chair laughing. ROFLOL
Monday, April 29, 2013
Stock Market Fluctuations
The stock market had a nice gain today and pushed the stock market to its highest level since 2000 which is the year that Bush was elected. It's been a hard, bumpy, and scary ride but to be honest when the year 2000 was here I was $32,000 in debt and homeless. Since then I have paid off my debt and now own my home, have some investment property in the mountains, a nice retirement account, and a good life, especially since I'm retired and doing what I love to do.
Sometimes I do get worried when I see the market take a big dump, especially when a slump lasts several days. It brings back bad memories and since I'm retired I no longer have the money to buy more stocks at the deflated price so a falling market won't recover as quickly for me as the last downturn did.
I hope I made myself clear but in case anyone doesn't understand I'll illustrate. Let's say I have 1,000 shares worth $10.00 a share and I buy 10 shares a week. If the stock falls $5.00 a share in value I can then purchase 20 shares a week. Let's say that after 6 months the market recovers and shares are now work $10.00 each, I would make a nice profit as I would have accumulated 520 shares instead of 260. If prices had remained constant my stock would have been worth $12600 but because I was able to purchase additional shares at the lower price my stock is now valued at $15600. Now that I'm retired my stock would still be only worth the original $10,000.
That is why I'm happy since the market increase has helped me a lot. I had to withdraw $8000.00 to reduce my debt so I could have enough income to cover my outgo. But instead of being worth $8000.00 les my stock is only worth $2,000.00 less, meaning I've made $6,000 in interest and market increases.
I just hope in continues.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Dr. J's Housecalls
Several years ago I stumbled across a blog entitled Dr. J's Housecalls and was surprised that I had discovered a Doctor that would come to me. However, the blog was not about making house calls or medicine or even the medical community except how an incident involving the blog author and the local Asheboro hospital affected the good doctor and her dreams. The doctor was highly motivated, intelligent, articulate and interesting. Some of her assertions seemed, at first reading, to be somewhat far fetched but I did some research and I finally came to accept that Dr. J had a valid argument and that she was done wrong and done harm by the actions of some hospital administrators.
I cannot state her case nearly as accurately or passionately as she has been able too. Sometimes life just seems to kick us when we least expect it too and no one we trust or system we believe in seems able or willing to help us back up but instrumental in kicking us again and again when we are down. I know from experience how cruel and unjust the system can be and it seemed the harder I tried to set the truth free the harder the system worked to preserve the wrong and deny the truth. I believe it was my knowledge of how our systems really works and through my struggles within the system to get the truth out that allowed me to become an avid supporter of Dr. J.
I have to admit that since my retirement from the work force I have been far too busy to keep up with my writing and my on-line reading as well. I also have to admit my support for Dr. J became less important to her as her support and influence grew. For sure she had her distractors but all people do, and the more one becomes known the more haters there will be.
Since my wife's accident in October the stresses of life and the obligations and duties increased and I found less and less time to "catch up" on the life and times of Dr. J. Tonight I decided to check in on her and see how she was doing and discovered that 4/25/2013 was the last of her blogs, except for an occasional update.
I was happy to learn that she is active in her church, still, and perhaps a little more active than what she was when I first encountered her. We have never met although we probably have come close a time or two. I did work briefly since I retired and through that job I would have had the opportunity to meet Dr. J. But things changed for me when I discovered I was a type 1 diabetic. I had to give up my job in order to care for myself so another opportunity passed me by.
I can fully understand Dr. J's passion and her desire to pursue her goals as far as she has. I am cut out of the same cloth that she is and I passionately sought for the truth to come out. Unlike Dr. J, I did win a big court battle. Even though the victory was sweet and my advisory was exposed the victory wasn't total and I knew that I could never recover my losses but I had won back my dignity and honor, and that was the best I would ever do. I just stepped away from the situation, accepted my situation for what it was and got on with my life putting my vendetta behind me.
I have found a new passion and a more positive one. I too have become active in my church and I have to brag on God when I think about what He has done in that little place. In Dr. J's last blog it seemed like she really wants to put the situation behind her and move on with her life yet at the same time she has been so involved that it seems almost like she is afraid to totally let go. I know, it seems funny to use the word afraid and Dr. J in reference to each other but sometimes even the most tenacious of us can sometimes be afraid, especially when it comes to letting go of something that has been such a big, important part of ones life.
Where Dr. J will go from here now that she isn't going to use her blog as an outlet any more we can only speculate and I won't have a way to check in on her now that "Housecalls" will cease but I pray that she will use her energy and passion and tenaciousness for something positive in her life.
.Regardless of where life takes her from here I am going to miss her blog and although we only knew each other in cyberspace I will always remain an admirer of hers and a supporter. I wish her the best of everything.
I cannot state her case nearly as accurately or passionately as she has been able too. Sometimes life just seems to kick us when we least expect it too and no one we trust or system we believe in seems able or willing to help us back up but instrumental in kicking us again and again when we are down. I know from experience how cruel and unjust the system can be and it seemed the harder I tried to set the truth free the harder the system worked to preserve the wrong and deny the truth. I believe it was my knowledge of how our systems really works and through my struggles within the system to get the truth out that allowed me to become an avid supporter of Dr. J.
I have to admit that since my retirement from the work force I have been far too busy to keep up with my writing and my on-line reading as well. I also have to admit my support for Dr. J became less important to her as her support and influence grew. For sure she had her distractors but all people do, and the more one becomes known the more haters there will be.
Since my wife's accident in October the stresses of life and the obligations and duties increased and I found less and less time to "catch up" on the life and times of Dr. J. Tonight I decided to check in on her and see how she was doing and discovered that 4/25/2013 was the last of her blogs, except for an occasional update.
I was happy to learn that she is active in her church, still, and perhaps a little more active than what she was when I first encountered her. We have never met although we probably have come close a time or two. I did work briefly since I retired and through that job I would have had the opportunity to meet Dr. J. But things changed for me when I discovered I was a type 1 diabetic. I had to give up my job in order to care for myself so another opportunity passed me by.
I can fully understand Dr. J's passion and her desire to pursue her goals as far as she has. I am cut out of the same cloth that she is and I passionately sought for the truth to come out. Unlike Dr. J, I did win a big court battle. Even though the victory was sweet and my advisory was exposed the victory wasn't total and I knew that I could never recover my losses but I had won back my dignity and honor, and that was the best I would ever do. I just stepped away from the situation, accepted my situation for what it was and got on with my life putting my vendetta behind me.
I have found a new passion and a more positive one. I too have become active in my church and I have to brag on God when I think about what He has done in that little place. In Dr. J's last blog it seemed like she really wants to put the situation behind her and move on with her life yet at the same time she has been so involved that it seems almost like she is afraid to totally let go. I know, it seems funny to use the word afraid and Dr. J in reference to each other but sometimes even the most tenacious of us can sometimes be afraid, especially when it comes to letting go of something that has been such a big, important part of ones life.
Where Dr. J will go from here now that she isn't going to use her blog as an outlet any more we can only speculate and I won't have a way to check in on her now that "Housecalls" will cease but I pray that she will use her energy and passion and tenaciousness for something positive in her life.
.Regardless of where life takes her from here I am going to miss her blog and although we only knew each other in cyberspace I will always remain an admirer of hers and a supporter. I wish her the best of everything.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Congress, Fearing 'Brain Drain,' Seeks to Opt Out of Participating in Obamacare's Exchanges
Another one bites the dust. Social Security and other federal plans the average American has to live with have long exempted congress people from having to participate and now it seems Obamacare will be added to the list. How come its good enough for you and the people you love but not for the people who you elected to fairly represent you. Exactly who are they representing?
Bible study a success
A young man from the church asked me to help him study the bible. He wanted to learn two things, one of which was to rightly divide the word and the second was how to prepare a sermon. Actually, he is a young man to people my age but he is in his mid thirties and has a learning disability. Actually he only made it through the ninth grade and is rather dull but still he is a good person and I was more than willing to help. After all, I discovered early in life the one of the best ways to learn is to teach.
I really didn't know the extent of his abilities or lack thereof until after we got started and I realized that learning was going to be difficult for him. It took some doing but I finally got him to understand that rightly dividing the word is just another way of understanding exactly what the scripture says, not only in terms of the meaning of individual words, sentences and phrases but in relationship to the paragraph chapter book and all the scriptures taken together as well as the intent of the bible as a whole.
Where some people get confused is they think it is the language that makes learning difficult but it isn't. Sometimes one needs to refer back to the original language to understand the intent of what a word really means, sometimes we need to understand the culture and customs of the writer or the people to whom the scripture was written to or about. There are some scriptures that one cannot take to mean what they seem to mean. Two come to mind quickly. One says "Does not nature teach that it is a shame for a man to have long hair?" and the other is "A bishop must be the husband of one wife."
At first reading it seems clear that the bible is teaching us that it is shameful for a man to have long hair. What you don't see in that sentence is there is no guidelines to determine when hair has reached the length of being too long. Also what some overlook is the fact that the sentence is a question and not a statement. The answer can be no as well as yes. If one reads on one discovers the final sentence on the matter states that "the church has no such custom."
The conclusion of the discussion is that while it may be better for a man to wear his hair (or dress or whatever) in what is the style or custom that is more commonly accepted as normal the important thing is the mans soul.
As for the second scripture, the literally interpretation of which has done plenty of harm. Some have gone so far as to deny a man access to the pulpit if he was not married and most have denied a man the right to be a minister if they have been married before. It seems contrary to logic to think God wanted a man to dedicate his life to preaching only to deny him that privilege if his wife died. Paul said it was better for a man not to marry so the Catholics do not allow their priest to marry, a decision that seems to stand in direct opposition to what Paul says here. Did Paul get confused?
Other people think that if a man was married and lost his wife (for any reason) and remarried that he cannot be a minister because he now has two wives. Yet even Jesus said that if a man put away his wife for adultery then he was free. That means no longer married. If he isn't married he has no wife. If a mans wife dies, whether by illness or accident, he no longer has a wife and is now free.
Some will claim that once a man marries it is for all eternity and even if she is no longer alive the marriage is still valid in the spiritual world but I would like to point out to those people that the scriptures say that in heaven there is no marriages.
The whole point of the qualification of "must be the husband of one wife" is to inform us that before a man becomes a minister he needs to be a stable person, If he divorced his wife because he desired another or couldn't make the marriage work because of his own shortcomings maybe he just isn't the right type of person to be a spiritually leader. I just cannot accept the fact that God makes mistakes when men are truly called.
The second part of our bible study centered on building a sermon. The process is simple. First one selects the text (the bible verse of group of verses that serve as the foundation or platform for the message). Then one has to decide on the object of the message. There are many lessons one can learn from just a small group of verses. After one decides on the text and the point of the message, one then must develop the points in a logical manner so that the points can be delivered in an interesting and convincing manner. The end of the message is a call to action in response to the message.
My student had a great deal of difficulty in even deciding what one should learn from a scripture of group of verses. He was amazed that I seemed to be able to do it without mush effort but he was really disappointed to learn that it was a skill that not everyone would be good at.
I asked him to hold up a finger. "Now compare that finger to your head. Can you smell with that finger?" "No" he replied. "Can you stick it around the corner and see what is on the other side?" "No."
"Can you hold up your finger and hear what others are saying?" Again the answer was no.
"Well then clearly the finger isn't as important as the head. In fact in comparison to the head the finger seems rather useless so maybe it isn't needed. Call I just cut it off?"
The answer was no. An emphatic no.
"Pick up that coffee cup" I instructed him. He did.
"Now I noticed that you didn't use your head but you did use your hand. So that finger does have a purpose and is able to do things which even the head can't do. Do not ever think that just because I can do things that you cannot do that you are unimportant. There are things that you can do that I cannot. There are certain people you can reach that I cannot reach. You are just as important and vital as anyone else because you can do things that others aren't able to..
I really didn't know the extent of his abilities or lack thereof until after we got started and I realized that learning was going to be difficult for him. It took some doing but I finally got him to understand that rightly dividing the word is just another way of understanding exactly what the scripture says, not only in terms of the meaning of individual words, sentences and phrases but in relationship to the paragraph chapter book and all the scriptures taken together as well as the intent of the bible as a whole.
Where some people get confused is they think it is the language that makes learning difficult but it isn't. Sometimes one needs to refer back to the original language to understand the intent of what a word really means, sometimes we need to understand the culture and customs of the writer or the people to whom the scripture was written to or about. There are some scriptures that one cannot take to mean what they seem to mean. Two come to mind quickly. One says "Does not nature teach that it is a shame for a man to have long hair?" and the other is "A bishop must be the husband of one wife."
At first reading it seems clear that the bible is teaching us that it is shameful for a man to have long hair. What you don't see in that sentence is there is no guidelines to determine when hair has reached the length of being too long. Also what some overlook is the fact that the sentence is a question and not a statement. The answer can be no as well as yes. If one reads on one discovers the final sentence on the matter states that "the church has no such custom."
The conclusion of the discussion is that while it may be better for a man to wear his hair (or dress or whatever) in what is the style or custom that is more commonly accepted as normal the important thing is the mans soul.
As for the second scripture, the literally interpretation of which has done plenty of harm. Some have gone so far as to deny a man access to the pulpit if he was not married and most have denied a man the right to be a minister if they have been married before. It seems contrary to logic to think God wanted a man to dedicate his life to preaching only to deny him that privilege if his wife died. Paul said it was better for a man not to marry so the Catholics do not allow their priest to marry, a decision that seems to stand in direct opposition to what Paul says here. Did Paul get confused?
Other people think that if a man was married and lost his wife (for any reason) and remarried that he cannot be a minister because he now has two wives. Yet even Jesus said that if a man put away his wife for adultery then he was free. That means no longer married. If he isn't married he has no wife. If a mans wife dies, whether by illness or accident, he no longer has a wife and is now free.
Some will claim that once a man marries it is for all eternity and even if she is no longer alive the marriage is still valid in the spiritual world but I would like to point out to those people that the scriptures say that in heaven there is no marriages.
The whole point of the qualification of "must be the husband of one wife" is to inform us that before a man becomes a minister he needs to be a stable person, If he divorced his wife because he desired another or couldn't make the marriage work because of his own shortcomings maybe he just isn't the right type of person to be a spiritually leader. I just cannot accept the fact that God makes mistakes when men are truly called.
The second part of our bible study centered on building a sermon. The process is simple. First one selects the text (the bible verse of group of verses that serve as the foundation or platform for the message). Then one has to decide on the object of the message. There are many lessons one can learn from just a small group of verses. After one decides on the text and the point of the message, one then must develop the points in a logical manner so that the points can be delivered in an interesting and convincing manner. The end of the message is a call to action in response to the message.
My student had a great deal of difficulty in even deciding what one should learn from a scripture of group of verses. He was amazed that I seemed to be able to do it without mush effort but he was really disappointed to learn that it was a skill that not everyone would be good at.
I asked him to hold up a finger. "Now compare that finger to your head. Can you smell with that finger?" "No" he replied. "Can you stick it around the corner and see what is on the other side?" "No."
"Can you hold up your finger and hear what others are saying?" Again the answer was no.
"Well then clearly the finger isn't as important as the head. In fact in comparison to the head the finger seems rather useless so maybe it isn't needed. Call I just cut it off?"
The answer was no. An emphatic no.
"Pick up that coffee cup" I instructed him. He did.
"Now I noticed that you didn't use your head but you did use your hand. So that finger does have a purpose and is able to do things which even the head can't do. Do not ever think that just because I can do things that you cannot do that you are unimportant. There are things that you can do that I cannot. There are certain people you can reach that I cannot reach. You are just as important and vital as anyone else because you can do things that others aren't able to..
Sunday, April 21, 2013
God still cares
Little One Way Baptist was the site of some wonderful things today, Sunday April 21, 2013. Several came to the alter and another called the preacher after everyone had gone home. At first he said he wasn't coming back because he was in conflict over whether to surrender to God or not but after the nine o'clock prayer, the preacher called him and he said he wanted to surrender his life to Christ.
I have a preacher friend that is an evangelist and heads a local fellowship. He doesn't attend our church but does come occasionally whenever our pastor is sick to fill in for him. We were having something special tonight that no one in the church knew about but me, the pastor and his wife. I really want my preacher friend to be there. I didn't ask God to bring him there but one night in prayer I did think how good it would be if he did come to the service.
He was there.
Only God could have brought him to our church at the appointed time. Some may claim it was just a coincidence and maybe it was but so many times in my life things have happened that some would claim are just coincidences but they can't just keep happening at random. It has to be a gracious and loving God that answers prayers time and time again. It is good to know that God still cares. Actually, He always has and always will. It is us that have turned our backs on God.
I know it isn't isn't to let go and trust God especially since we can not see him, feel him, and he seems so distant and separate from us. Sometimes it feels as if He isn't real but I know He is, that he is good and that he loves me. I know he loves you too.
I have a preacher friend that is an evangelist and heads a local fellowship. He doesn't attend our church but does come occasionally whenever our pastor is sick to fill in for him. We were having something special tonight that no one in the church knew about but me, the pastor and his wife. I really want my preacher friend to be there. I didn't ask God to bring him there but one night in prayer I did think how good it would be if he did come to the service.
He was there.
Only God could have brought him to our church at the appointed time. Some may claim it was just a coincidence and maybe it was but so many times in my life things have happened that some would claim are just coincidences but they can't just keep happening at random. It has to be a gracious and loving God that answers prayers time and time again. It is good to know that God still cares. Actually, He always has and always will. It is us that have turned our backs on God.
I know it isn't isn't to let go and trust God especially since we can not see him, feel him, and he seems so distant and separate from us. Sometimes it feels as if He isn't real but I know He is, that he is good and that he loves me. I know he loves you too.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Apple blossoms and peaches
I have a Georgia white which is now 4 years old, 2 eastern yellows that are 3 years old and an unknown variety that is just beginning its 2nd year of growth. The unknown peach tree was started from seeds I procured from a friend of the owner of an Arkansas peach orchard. The tree is over 8 feet tall and is twice as large as the older peach trees. I understand the peaches are supposed to be phenomenal so i can hardly wait until they are large enough and ripe enough to eat. The first year they had two little peaches but they fell off during a late spring cold spell we had last year. The peaches from the other trees didn't get large enough to eat. I'm hoping for something good this year.
I have other peach trees I started from seed. Peaches grow fast and I have had several that bore plenty of peaches their first year if planted in good soil. Starting them from seed is easier if you plant the kernel only. Just let the seed dry out, cut the edges off with pruning shears and then crack open.
I started all my apple trees from seed too and most are four years old. I've had trouble with cedar rust but I've learned how to deal with that problem so this year all the trees are beautiful. I even have two that have blooms. But the only apple trees that made it are Fuji and they are non pollinators so I have to have a crap apple tree or the right kind of apple tree that is a pollinator.
My crap apple tree just isn't old enough to pollinate my apple trees and may not be for several more years so today I set out in search of a Granny Smith. I checked with several retail outlets and a couple of nurseries with no luck. I did find one at Southern States and although they are more expensive than many other places I purchased the tree from them. It is in bloom too. I doubt that I will have apples this year but next fall I'm looking forward to the first fruits from my apple trees. At least the blooms have a sweet fragrance.
I have three cherry trees. The middle one had blooms on it last year and now another has lots of blooms. I don't know if I'll get cherries but the trees are doing fine.
My grape vines are really budding out and the started vines are still green; most of them are anyway. I did buy three Catawba Reds just in case the ones I tried to start from cuttings don't make it.
I finally have my garden planted. I have potatoes, onions (sweet and Valhalla) beets, radishes, kale, green beans (3 rows), cucumbers, squash, watermelon, cantaloupe, squash, green peppers, jalapeno peppers, and Anaheim peppers, and tomatoes. I also planted moon flowers (a 24 ft run) on the opposite side of the grape trellis and two sunflower gardens.
The only bad thing today was the stock market. I lost another $135.00. I hope this isn't the start of another long slide into recession.
I have other peach trees I started from seed. Peaches grow fast and I have had several that bore plenty of peaches their first year if planted in good soil. Starting them from seed is easier if you plant the kernel only. Just let the seed dry out, cut the edges off with pruning shears and then crack open.
I started all my apple trees from seed too and most are four years old. I've had trouble with cedar rust but I've learned how to deal with that problem so this year all the trees are beautiful. I even have two that have blooms. But the only apple trees that made it are Fuji and they are non pollinators so I have to have a crap apple tree or the right kind of apple tree that is a pollinator.
My crap apple tree just isn't old enough to pollinate my apple trees and may not be for several more years so today I set out in search of a Granny Smith. I checked with several retail outlets and a couple of nurseries with no luck. I did find one at Southern States and although they are more expensive than many other places I purchased the tree from them. It is in bloom too. I doubt that I will have apples this year but next fall I'm looking forward to the first fruits from my apple trees. At least the blooms have a sweet fragrance.
I have three cherry trees. The middle one had blooms on it last year and now another has lots of blooms. I don't know if I'll get cherries but the trees are doing fine.
My grape vines are really budding out and the started vines are still green; most of them are anyway. I did buy three Catawba Reds just in case the ones I tried to start from cuttings don't make it.
I finally have my garden planted. I have potatoes, onions (sweet and Valhalla) beets, radishes, kale, green beans (3 rows), cucumbers, squash, watermelon, cantaloupe, squash, green peppers, jalapeno peppers, and Anaheim peppers, and tomatoes. I also planted moon flowers (a 24 ft run) on the opposite side of the grape trellis and two sunflower gardens.
The only bad thing today was the stock market. I lost another $135.00. I hope this isn't the start of another long slide into recession.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Stock Market Slide
The past three days have not been kind to my money with the value of my stocks declining over $700.00. To you rich folks that isn't much but to poor people like me that is a lot. But, I'm sure those with much more money lost much more than I did so I guess its all realative.
I really haven't had time to worry about the stock market as I have been so busy around the yard mowing and planting and moving stuff around and helping other folks and the church. That sounds like a lot and it is especially for an old guy like myself.
Most likey in the next several months those of you who might be curious as to what I really look like may get the opportunity to find out. But more about that later. If you really want to know check me out on face book or better yet see me at One Way Baptist Church. I'll be doing something thes Sunday evening that I haven't done in forty years. Come see. Service starts at 6:45.
I know it is a little church but great things have happened there and we are beginning to grow. God is really working in that little church.
I really haven't had time to worry about the stock market as I have been so busy around the yard mowing and planting and moving stuff around and helping other folks and the church. That sounds like a lot and it is especially for an old guy like myself.
Most likey in the next several months those of you who might be curious as to what I really look like may get the opportunity to find out. But more about that later. If you really want to know check me out on face book or better yet see me at One Way Baptist Church. I'll be doing something thes Sunday evening that I haven't done in forty years. Come see. Service starts at 6:45.
I know it is a little church but great things have happened there and we are beginning to grow. God is really working in that little church.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Jackie Robinson was not first
Jackie Robinson was not the first black to play in the major leagues but he is a hero none the less. Men of color had played on professional teams before but one of the owners effectively banned blacks from pro ball for many years. It wasn't until the Dodgers defied him that the color barrier was broken.
What makes Jackie Robinson a hero is not the fact that he was the first black man to break the ban on people of color but how he did it. In order to get his shot, Jackie Robinson agreed to play for seven years without uttering a word in his own defense. It was extremely difficult and it did take its toll on his health, but with that commitment to silence he not only proved he was a great baseball player but he proved he was a man of great character as well and isn't that what we really want in our sports heros?
What is a shame though is that after all this time it seems when a non-black makes a mistake it is only a character flaw but when a black man makes a mistake it is a racial characteristic. We really should be better than that now but we aren't.
What makes Jackie Robinson a hero is not the fact that he was the first black man to break the ban on people of color but how he did it. In order to get his shot, Jackie Robinson agreed to play for seven years without uttering a word in his own defense. It was extremely difficult and it did take its toll on his health, but with that commitment to silence he not only proved he was a great baseball player but he proved he was a man of great character as well and isn't that what we really want in our sports heros?
What is a shame though is that after all this time it seems when a non-black makes a mistake it is only a character flaw but when a black man makes a mistake it is a racial characteristic. We really should be better than that now but we aren't.
Monday, April 15, 2013
One Way Baptist Completed project
I started in the fall of 2011 with a set of loppers and a maddox and a small hand saw. The land was overgrown with vines as thick as a mans waist and sixty feet long, briar's, fallen trees, bushes that were springing up like grass, and a general assortment of other vines and weeds. There were broken bricks, car tires, auto parts and old outhouse parts scattered throughout the lot. I had no money and the church had no money to have the property cleared but it needed to be done. Most men would have done nothing. It was too big a task for a man, an old one at that, to take on with no equipment and no help. There was none to do the job and each year the vines and briar's and poke weed bushes crept closer to the church.
But I intended to fight the weeds and plant a pumpkin garden there. I worked from September until the end of February of 2012 and had half the property cleared and I did have a pumpkin garden.
Starting again in late September, early October I talked the second half. It was a much tougher job and the land was littered with fallen tree trucks and limbs, left whole to rot where they lay, intertwined with vegetation, many hidden beneath the ground level due to excessive growth of low laying vines.
I did manage to scrap up the money to purchase a small chain saw but the old wood destroyed the chain saw blades quickly. In just a few hours a blade was so dull it was almost impossible to sharpen. I went through 5 blades in the course of clearing the land.
I am proud to announce as of today, the land is clear of all fallen logs and excessive growth. There are so vines that still need to be removed and thousands of small pieces of wood, sampling stumps, and weed stems that need to be cut and removed or raked off the ground before I can plant pumpkins but the land is so close to being usable I declare victory.
There is a lesson for all to be learned from my labors. No matter how daunting the task and how ill equipped you seem to be to tackle it, with determination, time, and perseverance and some help and encouragement from God, you too can claim victory.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Is this animal cruely or just a pet keepers right?
I never paid much attention to my neighbor until he built himself an outbuilding. It is well built howbeit by trial and error. I think the guy works construction but he is probably a wall board hanger. Anyway I had lots of laughs at watching the comedy of errors he and his friends made building the shed. What should have been a three week job has now stretched out to almost a year and he still isn't finished. It's an eyesore, with exposed wood, tar paper flapping in the breeze, and dirt piled around it's foundation.
I watched the guy cut down trees and stacke the wood only to move it 4 months later and then burn the brush, once setting his neighbors shed on fire.
The shed is large enough to have required a builders permit but he didn't have one. The shed is also build on the property line whiuch again isn't legal. It is also illegal to burn within city limits but even if burning was legal, it would have been much easier to care the stuff to the curb and let the city pick it up.
Even so, it isn't this neighbor that is my biggest concern. It is the neighbor one house down from him, the one who keeps a dog tied in the back yard, far away from the house. It is a dog that never is allowed loose, never receives human contact, and never has been fixed. The dog is now pregnant again. The first liter was pit bull mix. All but two of the puppies from the first liter were given to other people. Those two were given to the man with the shed.
Sadly, those two puppys, about nine months old now, have been kept on the small back porch with a makeshift lean-to made of plywood and flapping tar paper, and are ignored almost as much as the mother dog is.
It just seems cruel to me to keep a dog tied up 24/7/365 and never allow it freedom or given it human interaction or to keep twp puppies pinned on a back porch months on in and not allowed to exercise and not ever given attention.
I wish that I could do something or knew someone that cared enough to do something but it must be that society is perfectly okay with the man treating his animals this way.
Please don't suggest that I notify animal awareness, city hall, or local law enforcement. They don't seem to care about his dog anymore than he does.
I watched the guy cut down trees and stacke the wood only to move it 4 months later and then burn the brush, once setting his neighbors shed on fire.
The shed is large enough to have required a builders permit but he didn't have one. The shed is also build on the property line whiuch again isn't legal. It is also illegal to burn within city limits but even if burning was legal, it would have been much easier to care the stuff to the curb and let the city pick it up.
Even so, it isn't this neighbor that is my biggest concern. It is the neighbor one house down from him, the one who keeps a dog tied in the back yard, far away from the house. It is a dog that never is allowed loose, never receives human contact, and never has been fixed. The dog is now pregnant again. The first liter was pit bull mix. All but two of the puppies from the first liter were given to other people. Those two were given to the man with the shed.
Sadly, those two puppys, about nine months old now, have been kept on the small back porch with a makeshift lean-to made of plywood and flapping tar paper, and are ignored almost as much as the mother dog is.
It just seems cruel to me to keep a dog tied up 24/7/365 and never allow it freedom or given it human interaction or to keep twp puppies pinned on a back porch months on in and not allowed to exercise and not ever given attention.
I wish that I could do something or knew someone that cared enough to do something but it must be that society is perfectly okay with the man treating his animals this way.
Please don't suggest that I notify animal awareness, city hall, or local law enforcement. They don't seem to care about his dog anymore than he does.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
headlind writing in the 21st centuary
- Killed moving rabbit" reads a headline on Yahoo's homepage this morning April 10, 2013. I figured the man must have been a preety good shot to kill a moving rabbit which is what the headline leads on to believe. I was curious as to what he used to kill the rabbit with. If he used a slingshot then hitting the rabbit was just awesome. However, if he ran over it with his car, then it was lucky but a bit too messy to make use of the rabbit. Shooting it with a bow and arrow would have been a good trick but using a shotgun at close range would have been worse that running over it with his car. Using a pistol or rifle might have been a little too dangerous if there were homes in the area.
- So out of curiousity I read the article. It turns out the rabbit wasn't moving nor did the man kill it. The story was nothing like the headline. What actually happened was a rabbit was in the road and a man stopped to move it. While being a good person, I suppose, someone else hit the man with their car killing the good samaritan. I was thinking how disappointed I was over such a misleading headline. Now if the headline has said "Man killed while moving rabbit" it would have been true to the story and I would have known before reading the article what it was about.
- What is really sad to say is this kind of stupidity is common today and speaks volumes about the poor state of education in America today.
Wednesday, April 03, 2013
Easter Sunday: a touching of an old man
Easter Sunday
It isn’t always easy to touch an old man’s heart, even one dedicated to serving others. As recorded in the book of Acts, chapter six the apostles were faced with a dilemma. There were matters that needed their attention but to address those problems would require them to take time away from their calling. To solve the problem they appointed men of honest report to take care of the business. These men were called deacons.
I am a deacon, the only one in my church as we are small and really need none but the church was set up with deacons to serve and so it is why our church has one. I would suppose that deacons serve the church differently in different congregations but in our church my service is to the pastor. My duties cannot be spelled out specifically as a deacon is not an office. I view my duties as serving the pastor as "doing whatever the pastor needs me to do." Fortunately my pastor seldom asks me to do anything. Occasionally he may need me to fill in when a sick person needs a visit and he is unable to go or when a problem arises in the neighborhood and he can not take care of it as he lives far from the church. Most of what I do is done because I want to do it.
I do repair work, mow the grass, make the videos for the shut-ins, and teach the Sunday School lesson. Teaching is what I do best and I love to make the scriptures relevant to our everyday lives. I love my lord and savor and I want people to feel the passion I have for serving him. I live what I teach but to be honest, I am only human and make mistakes as does any other person. I make mistakes in my marriage too but that does not mean I love my wife any less nor does it mean that she loves me any less either. Sometimes she loves me more because I made a mistake because she recognizes the effort and passion that went into my efforts. Jesus is good to forgive me when I fall short.
We all fall short of God’s expectations for us. We aren’t always as faithful as we should be, sometimes we misapply scriptures or forget to realize that just because God took some desires away from us we can’t go around criticizing others that aren’t Christians because they still have those desires. It is our job to catch the fish and God’s job to clean them up.
I treat people with respect but it does take awhile to begin to trust someone to live up to their word. Many times I’ve been told "I’ll be there Sunday" but have never seen that person darken the doors of the church. People do what they want to do and not always what they should do. It isn’t often I’m disappointed by people but seldom am I touched by them either. When I do something nice and unexpected for someone it is more likely that I will be greeted with skepticism rather than thankfulness. It takes a lot for others to recognize that one is sincere
with no hidden agenda.
Being small like we are it has been a long time since we have had children in the church, especially children old enough to understand what is going on. On Easter Sunday we had three such children and for Sunday School too. It was near the end of the lesson when one of the two girls raised her hand and announced "I saved a little kitten"in response to a statement I had made. I told her I wanted to talk to her about her cat so as soon as Sunday School was over I made my way back to where her family was sitting and let tell me about her cat. We talked awhile and then she showed me a pocket notebook she was writing in. I was shocked when I read what she wrote.
She had taken notes of my Sunday School lesson and she had recorded accurately the most important points I had attempted to make. I was impressed.
The pastor preached his sermon and as we were to the point of dismissing the congregation the little girl walked to the front and handed the pastor a little piece of paper and said "I have a question." The pastor was pleased and said "Wow, a question for our question box." Then he handed the slip of paper to me and said, "You are good at handling these."
I opened the paper half expecting a simple child’s question and half expecting to not be able to understand what she was asking." I was totally shocked when I read her question. She asked "If I write to God in my journal will God write to me?" I was not expecting such a sincere and mature question from one so small. I was totally touched by her question and her desire to know God.
I walked down the aisle and stopped in front of her and handled her my bible. "God has written you a love letter."
It isn’t always easy to touch an old man’s heart, even one dedicated to serving others. As recorded in the book of Acts, chapter six the apostles were faced with a dilemma. There were matters that needed their attention but to address those problems would require them to take time away from their calling. To solve the problem they appointed men of honest report to take care of the business. These men were called deacons.
I am a deacon, the only one in my church as we are small and really need none but the church was set up with deacons to serve and so it is why our church has one. I would suppose that deacons serve the church differently in different congregations but in our church my service is to the pastor. My duties cannot be spelled out specifically as a deacon is not an office. I view my duties as serving the pastor as "doing whatever the pastor needs me to do." Fortunately my pastor seldom asks me to do anything. Occasionally he may need me to fill in when a sick person needs a visit and he is unable to go or when a problem arises in the neighborhood and he can not take care of it as he lives far from the church. Most of what I do is done because I want to do it.
I do repair work, mow the grass, make the videos for the shut-ins, and teach the Sunday School lesson. Teaching is what I do best and I love to make the scriptures relevant to our everyday lives. I love my lord and savor and I want people to feel the passion I have for serving him. I live what I teach but to be honest, I am only human and make mistakes as does any other person. I make mistakes in my marriage too but that does not mean I love my wife any less nor does it mean that she loves me any less either. Sometimes she loves me more because I made a mistake because she recognizes the effort and passion that went into my efforts. Jesus is good to forgive me when I fall short.
We all fall short of God’s expectations for us. We aren’t always as faithful as we should be, sometimes we misapply scriptures or forget to realize that just because God took some desires away from us we can’t go around criticizing others that aren’t Christians because they still have those desires. It is our job to catch the fish and God’s job to clean them up.
I treat people with respect but it does take awhile to begin to trust someone to live up to their word. Many times I’ve been told "I’ll be there Sunday" but have never seen that person darken the doors of the church. People do what they want to do and not always what they should do. It isn’t often I’m disappointed by people but seldom am I touched by them either. When I do something nice and unexpected for someone it is more likely that I will be greeted with skepticism rather than thankfulness. It takes a lot for others to recognize that one is sincere
with no hidden agenda.
Being small like we are it has been a long time since we have had children in the church, especially children old enough to understand what is going on. On Easter Sunday we had three such children and for Sunday School too. It was near the end of the lesson when one of the two girls raised her hand and announced "I saved a little kitten"in response to a statement I had made. I told her I wanted to talk to her about her cat so as soon as Sunday School was over I made my way back to where her family was sitting and let tell me about her cat. We talked awhile and then she showed me a pocket notebook she was writing in. I was shocked when I read what she wrote.
She had taken notes of my Sunday School lesson and she had recorded accurately the most important points I had attempted to make. I was impressed.
The pastor preached his sermon and as we were to the point of dismissing the congregation the little girl walked to the front and handed the pastor a little piece of paper and said "I have a question." The pastor was pleased and said "Wow, a question for our question box." Then he handed the slip of paper to me and said, "You are good at handling these."
I opened the paper half expecting a simple child’s question and half expecting to not be able to understand what she was asking." I was totally shocked when I read her question. She asked "If I write to God in my journal will God write to me?" I was not expecting such a sincere and mature question from one so small. I was totally touched by her question and her desire to know God.
I walked down the aisle and stopped in front of her and handled her my bible. "God has written you a love letter."
Tuesday, April 02, 2013
Were you pranked on April Fools Day?
Were you pranked on April 1, April Fools Day? I was. My wife is a weather buff and is always filling me in on the newest forcast so I was none the wiser when she told me first thing in the morning "Better enjoy today. It will be turning cooler tomorrow and maybe even snowing by Friday." Considering in snowed last week, her comment was believable. And she never jokes around so I swallowed her story hook, line, and sinker.
At first I wasn't happy about being pranked but I decided to enjoy it anyway and just had a good laugh. My laughing set the tone for the day and we had a good time. She snapped pictures all day as I worked cleaning up and redoing my water garden and koi pond.
At first I wasn't happy about being pranked but I decided to enjoy it anyway and just had a good laugh. My laughing set the tone for the day and we had a good time. She snapped pictures all day as I worked cleaning up and redoing my water garden and koi pond.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Have you ever wondered?
Have you ever wondered how the mistakes you made as a parent affected your child? I sometimes think that the bad decisions I made as a parent had a bad influence on my child but then again I look at him today and know he is a fine young man and I am amazed he turned out so well in spite of my inexperience as a parent. Maybe my mistakes made him stronger.
I feel bad about the times I was angry without reason to be or the times I did things my child didn't understand or that disappointed him. In some areas I might have pushed him to hard and maybe in orthers I didn't give him enough support. Sometimes I may have over reacted and others I didn't action with enough passion.
It's tough being a parent, especially the first time around. It's one of the nice things about being a parent the second time. i never had but the one child and he never had children. But I was a foster parent and I did raise my niece and two nephews for quite a few years. Those were different kids, different circumstances, and different decisions. Of course I made mistakes there too. I don't think it is possible to be a parent and not make mistakes. I just worry that the mistakes I made had a permanent negative influence on someones life. Even if they turned out to be good people, I always wondered could they have been better or happier or better able to cope with their problems had I done a better job.
I don't suppose one will ever know what could have been. To tell the truth I'm not always sure what is.
I feel bad about the times I was angry without reason to be or the times I did things my child didn't understand or that disappointed him. In some areas I might have pushed him to hard and maybe in orthers I didn't give him enough support. Sometimes I may have over reacted and others I didn't action with enough passion.
It's tough being a parent, especially the first time around. It's one of the nice things about being a parent the second time. i never had but the one child and he never had children. But I was a foster parent and I did raise my niece and two nephews for quite a few years. Those were different kids, different circumstances, and different decisions. Of course I made mistakes there too. I don't think it is possible to be a parent and not make mistakes. I just worry that the mistakes I made had a permanent negative influence on someones life. Even if they turned out to be good people, I always wondered could they have been better or happier or better able to cope with their problems had I done a better job.
I don't suppose one will ever know what could have been. To tell the truth I'm not always sure what is.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Gay Marriage ban
There really is no such thing as a gay marriage ban. And the recognition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman is not just a Christian concept. It seems proponents of gay marriage wants to blame the bible on peoples attitude about not allowing gays to be married but they are placing the blame in the wrong place.
Marriage between a man and a woman isn't a religious institution and it isn't only something that is done in Christian countries only. That custom has been the norm in every country for like forever. It has always been the norm for acceptable human behavior.
I know that marriage legitimizes a union and makes it socially acceptable. I also think that changing attitudes are making formally unacceptable things okay. Not too long in the distant past it was illegal to kill children but many people now are accepting of this. Not only do they think it is okay but they believe it is their right to do so.
There are many behaviors that humans engage in that are really stupid. I believe any behavior that alters ones perception of reality except as a medical necessity is a stupid behavior. At one time drinking wine was necessary because water wasn't safe to drink. Whatever benefits are in red wine comes from the grapes, not the alcohol so grape juice will do just fine. Smoking anything is bad as well as snorting stuff up ones nose or injecting things into ones body (except as noted as a medical necessity).
I find it upsetting that Christianity is looked upon as a religion that restricts peoples freedoms and that Christians are cloeminded and judgmental. If one practices Christianity as a set of rules and moral codes then they have missed the point that Christ taught. Christianity is all about having a relationship with Christ and if one has been born again in fact and not just in word only then he is truly set free and who is set free is free indeed. Paul said that as a Christian all things are lawful but not all things are expeidient. There is not lifestyle that is more free and tolerant than a true Christian lifestyle.
Marriage between a man and a woman isn't a religious institution and it isn't only something that is done in Christian countries only. That custom has been the norm in every country for like forever. It has always been the norm for acceptable human behavior.
I know that marriage legitimizes a union and makes it socially acceptable. I also think that changing attitudes are making formally unacceptable things okay. Not too long in the distant past it was illegal to kill children but many people now are accepting of this. Not only do they think it is okay but they believe it is their right to do so.
There are many behaviors that humans engage in that are really stupid. I believe any behavior that alters ones perception of reality except as a medical necessity is a stupid behavior. At one time drinking wine was necessary because water wasn't safe to drink. Whatever benefits are in red wine comes from the grapes, not the alcohol so grape juice will do just fine. Smoking anything is bad as well as snorting stuff up ones nose or injecting things into ones body (except as noted as a medical necessity).
I find it upsetting that Christianity is looked upon as a religion that restricts peoples freedoms and that Christians are cloeminded and judgmental. If one practices Christianity as a set of rules and moral codes then they have missed the point that Christ taught. Christianity is all about having a relationship with Christ and if one has been born again in fact and not just in word only then he is truly set free and who is set free is free indeed. Paul said that as a Christian all things are lawful but not all things are expeidient. There is not lifestyle that is more free and tolerant than a true Christian lifestyle.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Crazy weather for sure
Yesterday it rained so I was looking forward to a warmer and dryer day today. Saturday was georgeous and I was hoping tonigh would be another Saturday. Nope it wasn't. A little chilly and high winds but that was expected. The snow, on the other hand, totally took me by surprise.
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Ah Spring.. what tha....?
Today is the nicest day we have had in a long time. It didn't rain as originally forcast and it turned out to be a warm and sunny day with a light breeze now and then and not the high winds we have been getting. I tilled by two garden spots and my wildflower garden spot and made me two more flower garden spots before lunch. After lunch I rested awhile and then started preparations for my Sunday School lesson tomorrow and then had supper.
Afterwards I went outside to gather up the rocks that grew in the garden over the winter and to hunt down some dandelions. I was enjoying the warmth and pleasantness of being outside. I would have like to added the peace and quiet but alas that wasn't the case. Someone just had to crank up their music thinking everyone had the same tastes as they did and deserved to hear it. Truthfully, I doubt that they even remotely concidered anyone else when they turned the volume up so high that it vibrates throughout the neighborhood. I would just like to enjoy one pretty dau outside. especially a nice cool evening sitting by the pond and feeling the warmth of the night and the cool refreshing breeze while basking in the quietness of mother nature.
But in four years it hasn't happened yet and I doubt it will this year either. Last year was the worst with the Mexican poka being played over and over, night after night, week after week, month after month. The first year it was rap music being blasted from the people across the street, the second year it was music from the Methodist church up the street celebrating while the members enjoyed their picnics and cookouts. Then the next year it was another neighbor blasting away with their heavy metal applfied quitars, even from their rooftop.
Why can't people just be good neighbors?
Afterwards I went outside to gather up the rocks that grew in the garden over the winter and to hunt down some dandelions. I was enjoying the warmth and pleasantness of being outside. I would have like to added the peace and quiet but alas that wasn't the case. Someone just had to crank up their music thinking everyone had the same tastes as they did and deserved to hear it. Truthfully, I doubt that they even remotely concidered anyone else when they turned the volume up so high that it vibrates throughout the neighborhood. I would just like to enjoy one pretty dau outside. especially a nice cool evening sitting by the pond and feeling the warmth of the night and the cool refreshing breeze while basking in the quietness of mother nature.
But in four years it hasn't happened yet and I doubt it will this year either. Last year was the worst with the Mexican poka being played over and over, night after night, week after week, month after month. The first year it was rap music being blasted from the people across the street, the second year it was music from the Methodist church up the street celebrating while the members enjoyed their picnics and cookouts. Then the next year it was another neighbor blasting away with their heavy metal applfied quitars, even from their rooftop.
Why can't people just be good neighbors?
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Community Garden
There is around a half acre or more of good gardening space just waiting to be planted. Well, half can be planted but the other half has lots of vines growing on it and lots of bark and pieces of wood left from trees being cut and left to decay on the land. The trees have all been removed except for the stumps and a lot of raking and weed pulling remain but the space would be great for a project like a community garden.
It would be nice if i could interest some 4-H'ers and some other students would would like to do something for the community and maybe a person or two, adults really, who know something about gardening to kind of guide the project. Of course I have no mechanical equipment like tractors or tillers or anything handy like that to work with but kids can't use that stuff anyway. Maybe some adult would volunteer to help an afternoon or two to help prepare the soil for planting. The kids could actually do the planting and take care of the garden and the produce from it could be distributed to the more needful of our citizens.
Anyone have any ideas or input?
It would be nice if i could interest some 4-H'ers and some other students would would like to do something for the community and maybe a person or two, adults really, who know something about gardening to kind of guide the project. Of course I have no mechanical equipment like tractors or tillers or anything handy like that to work with but kids can't use that stuff anyway. Maybe some adult would volunteer to help an afternoon or two to help prepare the soil for planting. The kids could actually do the planting and take care of the garden and the produce from it could be distributed to the more needful of our citizens.
Anyone have any ideas or input?
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Does Prayer Work?
Well, yes and no. That isn't meant to be a gotcha answer but there are some qualifications that have to be met first before God answers prayer. God isn't a granter of wishes by any means and the "name it and claim it" stance of many TV preachers isn't what prayer is all about anyway.
The only prayer God answers from a lost person is the prayer of repentance. Now there is a difference between repentance and confession and while confession can be good it isn't good enough. One must repent of their sins.
Once a person has been born again God will answer his prayer's if he is praying with a sinless heart. Even a Christian sins and if a Christian with unconfessed sins prays God does not necessarily listen. The scriptures teach that we should confess our sins first then pray. When we pray we must pray believing. God will grant our needs. He may even grant our wants but not always. God answers every prayer from a Christian. Sometimes He says no, sometimes, yes and sometimes he says "in My time".
One should not always expect a bed of roses from prayer. A prayerful Christian is hated by Satan so we must expect some discouragement to be throw our way when we have an effective prayer life.
Our church came together and agreed to pray everynight at 9:00pm for our church. The first Sunday after we began our prayer vigil we had the largest attendance without the day being a special service. But we had a member to die, everyone in the church has become sick except for two people, another had an outbreak of skin cancer and had to have an operation to remove the cancer.
The preacher had a vehicle breakdown and i had one to get stuck in the mud. I do believe if we hold firm and continue in prayer that the roadblocks and discouragement will cease and we will receive many blessings from God. I have seen much evidence in my own life to support my belief the God and His concern for His people.
I have found that God will honor His promises to us if we first honor our comitment to Him.
The only prayer God answers from a lost person is the prayer of repentance. Now there is a difference between repentance and confession and while confession can be good it isn't good enough. One must repent of their sins.
Once a person has been born again God will answer his prayer's if he is praying with a sinless heart. Even a Christian sins and if a Christian with unconfessed sins prays God does not necessarily listen. The scriptures teach that we should confess our sins first then pray. When we pray we must pray believing. God will grant our needs. He may even grant our wants but not always. God answers every prayer from a Christian. Sometimes He says no, sometimes, yes and sometimes he says "in My time".
One should not always expect a bed of roses from prayer. A prayerful Christian is hated by Satan so we must expect some discouragement to be throw our way when we have an effective prayer life.
Our church came together and agreed to pray everynight at 9:00pm for our church. The first Sunday after we began our prayer vigil we had the largest attendance without the day being a special service. But we had a member to die, everyone in the church has become sick except for two people, another had an outbreak of skin cancer and had to have an operation to remove the cancer.
The preacher had a vehicle breakdown and i had one to get stuck in the mud. I do believe if we hold firm and continue in prayer that the roadblocks and discouragement will cease and we will receive many blessings from God. I have seen much evidence in my own life to support my belief the God and His concern for His people.
I have found that God will honor His promises to us if we first honor our comitment to Him.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Sleep evades me
Didn't retire until 11 and at 2:30 I'm awake and not feeling sleepy at all. I suppose the warmer weather and thinking about the events of Sunday services has my brain in a tizzy. Later today after taking my wife to get her eye glasses adjusted I'm heading to the church to carry wood to the curb. I've got that last big pile to get rid of. Tomorrow I have a VA appointment in Winston Salem, Wednesday I'm helping the preacher work on the outside lightins at the church. Thursday I'm heading to Hickory to take Mom shopping and attend to her other needs. Friday or Saturday I'm putting up a fence at the church.
I was hoping to get all the debris and weeds out of the space I worked all winter to clear but I think mother nature is going to beat me on this one so i may have to call in the big guns. As much as I hate chemical warfare I may not have any choice. Half of what I worked to clear last year is starting to grow back and it is still too bumpy and rocky with too many sappling stumps left in order to mow. It seems weed killer is my only altermative. The winter of 2013-14 will afford me enough time to finally win the weed battle but i'v got to hold them at bay until then.
I was hoping to have every thing cleared so I could have a huge garden. I know we have some members that could sure use a break on their groceries and get some fresh vegatables to boot. I'll still have some for them from my home garden. The space at the church really needs to be planted in pumpkins the first year. The large leaves shade the ground retarding the growth of the weeds and vines. As the ground is now, the ground can't be tilled because the vines will clog the tiller. I broke the transmission on my attempt to till last year, It would be nice if I could afford to have the land plowed but I can't. It seems people don't help each other out much now a days. That may not be true but it just seems so.
One of the hardest thing about being a diabetic is the constant hunger. To be totally honest, it is the feeling of hunger that keeps me from getting back to sleep many nights (tonight included). Sometimes it is really hard to tell if I really need to eat or if my blood sugar is just too high or too low. That is why it is so important for a diabetic to eat at the same time everyday and to pick the right kinds of food to eat. It is also why it is so difficult for a diabetic to lose weight.
Last year I walked five miles every mornings and ate a strict healthy diet and cluld not drop a single pound. My diabetes was being controlled by diet and after losing fifty pounds it seemed I hit that plateau and no matter what I did i just wasn't going to lose any more. I fufilled a dream I'v always had and coached a baseball team and halfway through the season the weight just started falling off me. I was happy and proud of myself. The only thing I hated was I just couldn't seem to stay out of the bathroom.
At my next doctor's visit I found that I had gone from a diabetic who was able to control his disease through diet to a type one diabetic who was nearing death without help. Unfortunately help came with a weight gain. I've managed to get off the insulin but it is a mighty struggle trying to rid myself of this extra weight. If I feed my hunger pains I'm also feeding the disease. Sometimes life is really hard and scary. Sometimes it is just uncomfortable.
I was hoping to get all the debris and weeds out of the space I worked all winter to clear but I think mother nature is going to beat me on this one so i may have to call in the big guns. As much as I hate chemical warfare I may not have any choice. Half of what I worked to clear last year is starting to grow back and it is still too bumpy and rocky with too many sappling stumps left in order to mow. It seems weed killer is my only altermative. The winter of 2013-14 will afford me enough time to finally win the weed battle but i'v got to hold them at bay until then.
I was hoping to have every thing cleared so I could have a huge garden. I know we have some members that could sure use a break on their groceries and get some fresh vegatables to boot. I'll still have some for them from my home garden. The space at the church really needs to be planted in pumpkins the first year. The large leaves shade the ground retarding the growth of the weeds and vines. As the ground is now, the ground can't be tilled because the vines will clog the tiller. I broke the transmission on my attempt to till last year, It would be nice if I could afford to have the land plowed but I can't. It seems people don't help each other out much now a days. That may not be true but it just seems so.
One of the hardest thing about being a diabetic is the constant hunger. To be totally honest, it is the feeling of hunger that keeps me from getting back to sleep many nights (tonight included). Sometimes it is really hard to tell if I really need to eat or if my blood sugar is just too high or too low. That is why it is so important for a diabetic to eat at the same time everyday and to pick the right kinds of food to eat. It is also why it is so difficult for a diabetic to lose weight.
Last year I walked five miles every mornings and ate a strict healthy diet and cluld not drop a single pound. My diabetes was being controlled by diet and after losing fifty pounds it seemed I hit that plateau and no matter what I did i just wasn't going to lose any more. I fufilled a dream I'v always had and coached a baseball team and halfway through the season the weight just started falling off me. I was happy and proud of myself. The only thing I hated was I just couldn't seem to stay out of the bathroom.
At my next doctor's visit I found that I had gone from a diabetic who was able to control his disease through diet to a type one diabetic who was nearing death without help. Unfortunately help came with a weight gain. I've managed to get off the insulin but it is a mighty struggle trying to rid myself of this extra weight. If I feed my hunger pains I'm also feeding the disease. Sometimes life is really hard and scary. Sometimes it is just uncomfortable.
Friday, March 08, 2013
Is salmon the only good fish?
It seems no matter what ailment one is seeking to cure through diet, like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, pain, etc. there is one food that always seems to be mentioned and that is salmon. I can eat it if I have too but there has to be some other fish out there that has a good taste that is healthy too. Maybe it isn't as healthy as salmon but milder. I've read some negative things about salmon too.
When I started working in a grocery store seafood departments were unheard of but when they were finally accepted it seems the only fish we could sale was catfish, flounder and croakers. We sold lots of shrimp and crablegs and some perch but not much of anything else. It took a lot of work to get people to try other fish. Steak fish like salmon, halibut, mackerel, shark, and tuna were occasional sells but the bread and butter of the seafood department was catfish, croakers, shrimp, and crablegs.
Now it seems if a seafood department is out of salmon they are out of business.
When I started working in a grocery store seafood departments were unheard of but when they were finally accepted it seems the only fish we could sale was catfish, flounder and croakers. We sold lots of shrimp and crablegs and some perch but not much of anything else. It took a lot of work to get people to try other fish. Steak fish like salmon, halibut, mackerel, shark, and tuna were occasional sells but the bread and butter of the seafood department was catfish, croakers, shrimp, and crablegs.
Now it seems if a seafood department is out of salmon they are out of business.
Does yard work hasten spring or prolong winter?
I still haven't finished working at the church with the last of four piles of wood yet to be carried to the street. I also have a mini-pile and a couple of logs already cut up to dig out of the weeds plus the weeds to pull and all the debris to rack up. I could have spent today racking and pulling weeds. I can't carry the wood off except on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays because the city picks up on Thursday and if I carry the wood to the street after the city picks up it is there during church and I don't want that.
Next week I have an appointment in Winston-Salem on Tuesday and have to go to Hickory on Thursday. I understand we might get some wet weather on Monday and with all the previous ground soaking the yard will still be too wet to drive on so I can't carry the wood to the street next week.
While it hasn't been too wet to rack or pull weeds, it has been too cold and windy. I'm recovering from something the likes of which I've never had before. It starting with a light sore throat then with chest congestion and then my sinuses clogged up. It doesn't take much movement to clog me up completely and breathing is difficult.
I realize that the changing of the seasons is generally accompanied by high winds but what I don't know is when winter is going to let go and spring take hold. I'll mow the grass in hot weather because I don't have a choice but I'm not pulling weeds, racking or carrying wood when the temperature goes above 70. If spring comes quickly then I just may not get finished this year.
I did order some packets of vegetation killer which I intend to use around the trees since I can't mow in that area yet. There are too many small stumps, rocks, and bricks thrown about and the ground is too unlevel in sopts. The unlevel ground is the cause of my koehler mower being damaged beyond repair. This year I purchased a rider to cut the grass with so I have to take extra good care of it.
If it gets too warm for me to pull weeds and rack then I'll have to spray vegetation killer on the newly cleared portion as well so I won't be able to plant pumpkins on that portion. Last year I quit work at the end of February. I could have been finished by the end of December this year if the city would have picked up the wood from the field but they wouln't so I've had to carry it to the street. With all the rain and other things I've had to do I haven't been able to work on the field steadly like I did last year. so I've gotten behind.
To tell the truth, I'm ready for spring and I really don't mind waiting until next year to finish except that next year I just may not feel like doing anything at all. I'm not sure if I want spring to hurry or for winter to stay around awhile. But to tell the truth it really doesn't matter all that much to me.
Next week I have an appointment in Winston-Salem on Tuesday and have to go to Hickory on Thursday. I understand we might get some wet weather on Monday and with all the previous ground soaking the yard will still be too wet to drive on so I can't carry the wood to the street next week.
While it hasn't been too wet to rack or pull weeds, it has been too cold and windy. I'm recovering from something the likes of which I've never had before. It starting with a light sore throat then with chest congestion and then my sinuses clogged up. It doesn't take much movement to clog me up completely and breathing is difficult.
I realize that the changing of the seasons is generally accompanied by high winds but what I don't know is when winter is going to let go and spring take hold. I'll mow the grass in hot weather because I don't have a choice but I'm not pulling weeds, racking or carrying wood when the temperature goes above 70. If spring comes quickly then I just may not get finished this year.
I did order some packets of vegetation killer which I intend to use around the trees since I can't mow in that area yet. There are too many small stumps, rocks, and bricks thrown about and the ground is too unlevel in sopts. The unlevel ground is the cause of my koehler mower being damaged beyond repair. This year I purchased a rider to cut the grass with so I have to take extra good care of it.
If it gets too warm for me to pull weeds and rack then I'll have to spray vegetation killer on the newly cleared portion as well so I won't be able to plant pumpkins on that portion. Last year I quit work at the end of February. I could have been finished by the end of December this year if the city would have picked up the wood from the field but they wouln't so I've had to carry it to the street. With all the rain and other things I've had to do I haven't been able to work on the field steadly like I did last year. so I've gotten behind.
To tell the truth, I'm ready for spring and I really don't mind waiting until next year to finish except that next year I just may not feel like doing anything at all. I'm not sure if I want spring to hurry or for winter to stay around awhile. But to tell the truth it really doesn't matter all that much to me.
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
Monday, March 04, 2013
Irratating words and phrases
"Who let the dogs out" and "Just sayin" are two phrases that I find irratating. The one used most often by the young writers of today, especially in the fashion field is "stunned or stuns" Tonight on Yahoo one headlines reads "Sandra Bullock Stuns in Red Dress".
Now don't get me wrong. I love Sandra Bulloock. Sandra Bullock and Jodie Foster are my two favorite female stars. I looked at the picture of her in that red dress. Not because she stuns but because it was Sandra Bullock. It is a nice dress. But why are writers choosing words that are so over the top? Why do they have to use the same over the top word over and over again?
Now don't get me wrong. I love Sandra Bulloock. Sandra Bullock and Jodie Foster are my two favorite female stars. I looked at the picture of her in that red dress. Not because she stuns but because it was Sandra Bullock. It is a nice dress. But why are writers choosing words that are so over the top? Why do they have to use the same over the top word over and over again?
When is spring supposed to get here?
I'm not so much looking forward to summer if it is going to be hot like 2012 but I am looking forward to the day when I can walk on dirt and not get muddy. It has been wet for so long in some places it looks as if the ground has melted away like cake frosting in a too warm kitchen. I've still have a few stacks of wood at the church I need to carry off but it has been so wet I can't pull the truck down to the piles because I would get mirred in the mud. The mud might be fine for pigs, bakers and wrestlers but it doesn't do much for Ford Rangers and fat old men.
I started the project in the fall of 2011 clearing the back half of the property at the church. I worked six months last year and now starting the eight month of this year (counting from September of 2012 until the present). Soon it will be too warm to work there and i need to get the wood carried off and the weeds pulled in time to plant.
With my wife being injured for the last four months and taking care of her, taking care of my aged mother, and helping to care for my monther-in-law, it has been hard to find time and days dry enough to work. It sure would have been nice to have some big equipment to work with. Last year I had a mattock. a rack, a pair of lopers, and a small hand saw. This year I added a chain saw, which couldn't afford but purchased anyway.
I had a funeral to attend today and we are expecting rain or worse the next two days so yoiu know Thursday and Friday are going to be wet. I can only stack wood by the curb on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday because pickup time is early Thursday morning. Next week I have a doctor's appointment on Tuesday and I am going to take care of Mom on Thurdsay.
I had hoped to get the work done before spring but it looks like it will be a close call to get it done before it feels like spring and almost impossible to get it done by calendar spring. I really do need to get finished so i can get the pumpkins in the ground.
I started the project in the fall of 2011 clearing the back half of the property at the church. I worked six months last year and now starting the eight month of this year (counting from September of 2012 until the present). Soon it will be too warm to work there and i need to get the wood carried off and the weeds pulled in time to plant.
With my wife being injured for the last four months and taking care of her, taking care of my aged mother, and helping to care for my monther-in-law, it has been hard to find time and days dry enough to work. It sure would have been nice to have some big equipment to work with. Last year I had a mattock. a rack, a pair of lopers, and a small hand saw. This year I added a chain saw, which couldn't afford but purchased anyway.
I had a funeral to attend today and we are expecting rain or worse the next two days so yoiu know Thursday and Friday are going to be wet. I can only stack wood by the curb on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday because pickup time is early Thursday morning. Next week I have a doctor's appointment on Tuesday and I am going to take care of Mom on Thurdsay.
I had hoped to get the work done before spring but it looks like it will be a close call to get it done before it feels like spring and almost impossible to get it done by calendar spring. I really do need to get finished so i can get the pumpkins in the ground.
To what country do we owe allegiance?
A high school student was removed from her class for failure to pledge allegiance to the flag. I'm sure that will get the blood boiling of many loyal Americans. In somecals, I've heard, it is against policy to pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States and that makes other americans angry.
But as an American how would you feel if you sent your child to school and they were removed from class for refusing to pledge allegiance to the flag? Not the American flag but the Mexican flag.
No way that would every happen in America. No American High School would ever require America citizens to pledge allegiance to another country. Well, I wish I could say that was true but it isn't.
"A Texas high school student who says she was removed from her Spanish class for refusing to recite the Mexican pledge of allegiance is suing the school district."
At least she is suing. Personally I'm proud of her.
But as an American how would you feel if you sent your child to school and they were removed from class for refusing to pledge allegiance to the flag? Not the American flag but the Mexican flag.
No way that would every happen in America. No American High School would ever require America citizens to pledge allegiance to another country. Well, I wish I could say that was true but it isn't.
"A Texas high school student who says she was removed from her Spanish class for refusing to recite the Mexican pledge of allegiance is suing the school district."
At least she is suing. Personally I'm proud of her.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
A dear old saint passed today
Mrs. Dora Tickle, 93, of Old Randleman Road, Greensboro, passed today at Moses Cone Hospital. I was hoping to see her one more time but I never had the chance. The last time I saw her was in October. My wife and Mrs. Tickle were both hospitilized it October at Moses Cone and both on the third floor. My wife was on one end of the hospital and Mrs. Tickle was on the other.
I did go by her house several times to see her but she wasn't able to receive company. The pastor and I went by to see her Saturday but again she wasn't feeling well enough to have company. At least the preacher saw her Sunday evening when she was taken to Moses Cone. She had become frail but her spirit was always bright and unlifting.
I will always miss Mrs. Tickle and count it one of the best blessings of my life to have known her.
I did go by her house several times to see her but she wasn't able to receive company. The pastor and I went by to see her Saturday but again she wasn't feeling well enough to have company. At least the preacher saw her Sunday evening when she was taken to Moses Cone. She had become frail but her spirit was always bright and unlifting.
I will always miss Mrs. Tickle and count it one of the best blessings of my life to have known her.
Monday, February 25, 2013
With One Accord
Starting last Saturday, the members of the church I attend all agreed to pray a 9pm every night. It's awesome.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
To retire or not, that is the question
It seems that almost all of the articles on saving for retirement suggests that few, if any, have saved enough and that the best way to maximize retirement is to work until one is seventy, especially if you are a man and expect to die before your wife. Apparently these articles must be written by young people who are afraid there will not be enough money left in the social security system for them to draw from so they hope us baby boomers will work until we are just about ready to die so we won't collect many benefits.
No, I didn't save a fortune and I am still making house payments and I probably always will. My retirement will not be spent traveling or camping or taking long vacation to visit the kids and grandkids. No I spend my time working at the church, working in the yard and taking care of family members. I don't have a great deal of extra money but I have saved enough to maintain my working man's lifestyle without having to work.
I retired early. Those that advocate people working until they are in their seventies just haven't been around many older people or haven't been paying attention. Many seem to be decrepit by the time they hit sixty but even for those with few health problems, pain comes and doesn't seem to want to go away. By the time one saves all he can save and has maximized everything, he is just to racked with pain to really enjoy life.
Perhaps better advise would be to save all you can, retire early but wait as long as you can before drawing social security to maximize benefits there.
There was a joke about the young business man that passed a man fishing under the bridge everyday. One day he stopped to talk to the fisherman and learned that the fisherman never worked, lived in an old shack in the woods and did nothing but fish all day. "You should get yourself a job, work hard and save your money" the young man advised.
"And then what?"
"Then you can retire and enjoy life."
"Well, that's what I'm doing now" the older fellow replied.
Sometimes I think that we live life backwards. We should be born old and with our bodies racked with pain it is easier to sit and study and learn. Once we have learned then our bodies don't hurt as bad and we can go into the work place with our strength and knowledge and as we get younger and wiser we are able to work harder and harder and with more enthusiasm. Then when we have worked long enough, we can retire, being full of vim and vigor and play with younthful energy until time to leave this world.
No, I didn't save a fortune and I am still making house payments and I probably always will. My retirement will not be spent traveling or camping or taking long vacation to visit the kids and grandkids. No I spend my time working at the church, working in the yard and taking care of family members. I don't have a great deal of extra money but I have saved enough to maintain my working man's lifestyle without having to work.
I retired early. Those that advocate people working until they are in their seventies just haven't been around many older people or haven't been paying attention. Many seem to be decrepit by the time they hit sixty but even for those with few health problems, pain comes and doesn't seem to want to go away. By the time one saves all he can save and has maximized everything, he is just to racked with pain to really enjoy life.
Perhaps better advise would be to save all you can, retire early but wait as long as you can before drawing social security to maximize benefits there.
There was a joke about the young business man that passed a man fishing under the bridge everyday. One day he stopped to talk to the fisherman and learned that the fisherman never worked, lived in an old shack in the woods and did nothing but fish all day. "You should get yourself a job, work hard and save your money" the young man advised.
"And then what?"
"Then you can retire and enjoy life."
"Well, that's what I'm doing now" the older fellow replied.
Sometimes I think that we live life backwards. We should be born old and with our bodies racked with pain it is easier to sit and study and learn. Once we have learned then our bodies don't hurt as bad and we can go into the work place with our strength and knowledge and as we get younger and wiser we are able to work harder and harder and with more enthusiasm. Then when we have worked long enough, we can retire, being full of vim and vigor and play with younthful energy until time to leave this world.
Friday, February 22, 2013
Why is God Invisible?
No living person has every seen God. The bible even refers to God as the invisible God. Is God really invisible and if not why can't we see him?
I recently read a statement from a young man that said that God has had 2,000 years to convince him that He was real and having failed to do so he must conclude that God isn't real. The young man had a lot of things wrong in that statement. God has been around a lot longer than 2,000 years. In fact He has been around forever. The young man, on the other hand, has been around for just a few dozen years at the most and many of those he was too young to understand many things. So the truth is, he has only had a relativbely short time to make a decision concerning God.
In many ways it isn't easy knowing the truth. There is the Christian bible, the Holy Bible, the atheist bible, the Koran, and many other books that others claim to be the bible but have either added something too it or taken stuff away and thereby perverted the word of God. The other day, a man called the preacher and stated that his wife didn't like the Sunday Sermon. It wasn't the style or delivery she objected too but the message. However, the message was exactly what the bible said and meant.
People are lazy and don't want to study hard to understand stuff.. No only that but over time, our opinions change so what once was acceptable is no longer held as proper. When people become "enlightened" they want the bible to be changed to reflect their new views on life. The easiest way to accomplish that is to pen a new translation of the bible. I have no problem with different translations but I have serious problems with new interpretations.
Another problem people have is that they build a doctrine from just a few verses of scripture and the doctrine is contrary to what the bible actually teaches. "Take a little wine for thy stomachs sake", Jesus turned the water into wine, deacons are not to be taken with much wine, seem to teach that the scriptures say it is okay to drink as long as we do not do so to excess.
In I John chapter three one of the verses say "we sin not" so some people teach that Christians cannot sin. Yet in that same book, in chapter I verse 18 the bible says he who says he is without sin is a liar and the truth is not in him. Careful study will reveal that there is no contridiction there. It is true that people commit sin, even Christians, but as a Christian God forgives our sins.
God cannot look upon sin. Christ became sin for all of us and he did so while hanging on the cross at Calvary as reflected in His words "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" At the moment Christ became sin for all of us God turned His back on Jesus. God is invisible to us because "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God"
God did however, send His son to earth to teach us and to show us. He walked among us teaching and healing until His time had come for Him to lay down His life for our sins. He did not have too. It was His choice. Just as Christ had a choice to die for you or to escape the cross, we have a choice to accept Christ as our savor or to reject Him.
God gave us Christ, He gave us the prophets, the disciples, the churches, and His written word. He God did not exist there would be no written word and no Christ. That He exists is as plain as the nose on your face. His existence is not dependent on our believing but our existence is dependent on Him. God does not send people to Hell. Hell was created for Satan and his angels not for man.
There are many who have accepted the fact that Jesus is the Christ yet have not learned to fully trust Christ in their everyday lives. What they are doing is believing in the concept of Christ but not fully believing in the personhood of a risen savor nor fully accepting that Christ loves us and will indeed honor the promises he has made. I have to admit sometimes it is hard to fully trust Christ. It is like having a fear of flying. Flying commercial airlines is the safest form of mass transportation there is yet some people will drive rather than fly. That is just human nature.
There have been several incidents in my life that have proven to me that I can trust Christ and the stronger my faith becomes the more Christ proves that He can be trusted. I know for a fact that God is real and that Jesus Christ is a savor and my Lord. So why then is God invisible?
He is invisible only because we refuse to see Him.
I recently read a statement from a young man that said that God has had 2,000 years to convince him that He was real and having failed to do so he must conclude that God isn't real. The young man had a lot of things wrong in that statement. God has been around a lot longer than 2,000 years. In fact He has been around forever. The young man, on the other hand, has been around for just a few dozen years at the most and many of those he was too young to understand many things. So the truth is, he has only had a relativbely short time to make a decision concerning God.
In many ways it isn't easy knowing the truth. There is the Christian bible, the Holy Bible, the atheist bible, the Koran, and many other books that others claim to be the bible but have either added something too it or taken stuff away and thereby perverted the word of God. The other day, a man called the preacher and stated that his wife didn't like the Sunday Sermon. It wasn't the style or delivery she objected too but the message. However, the message was exactly what the bible said and meant.
People are lazy and don't want to study hard to understand stuff.. No only that but over time, our opinions change so what once was acceptable is no longer held as proper. When people become "enlightened" they want the bible to be changed to reflect their new views on life. The easiest way to accomplish that is to pen a new translation of the bible. I have no problem with different translations but I have serious problems with new interpretations.
Another problem people have is that they build a doctrine from just a few verses of scripture and the doctrine is contrary to what the bible actually teaches. "Take a little wine for thy stomachs sake", Jesus turned the water into wine, deacons are not to be taken with much wine, seem to teach that the scriptures say it is okay to drink as long as we do not do so to excess.
In I John chapter three one of the verses say "we sin not" so some people teach that Christians cannot sin. Yet in that same book, in chapter I verse 18 the bible says he who says he is without sin is a liar and the truth is not in him. Careful study will reveal that there is no contridiction there. It is true that people commit sin, even Christians, but as a Christian God forgives our sins.
God cannot look upon sin. Christ became sin for all of us and he did so while hanging on the cross at Calvary as reflected in His words "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" At the moment Christ became sin for all of us God turned His back on Jesus. God is invisible to us because "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God"
God did however, send His son to earth to teach us and to show us. He walked among us teaching and healing until His time had come for Him to lay down His life for our sins. He did not have too. It was His choice. Just as Christ had a choice to die for you or to escape the cross, we have a choice to accept Christ as our savor or to reject Him.
God gave us Christ, He gave us the prophets, the disciples, the churches, and His written word. He God did not exist there would be no written word and no Christ. That He exists is as plain as the nose on your face. His existence is not dependent on our believing but our existence is dependent on Him. God does not send people to Hell. Hell was created for Satan and his angels not for man.
There are many who have accepted the fact that Jesus is the Christ yet have not learned to fully trust Christ in their everyday lives. What they are doing is believing in the concept of Christ but not fully believing in the personhood of a risen savor nor fully accepting that Christ loves us and will indeed honor the promises he has made. I have to admit sometimes it is hard to fully trust Christ. It is like having a fear of flying. Flying commercial airlines is the safest form of mass transportation there is yet some people will drive rather than fly. That is just human nature.
There have been several incidents in my life that have proven to me that I can trust Christ and the stronger my faith becomes the more Christ proves that He can be trusted. I know for a fact that God is real and that Jesus Christ is a savor and my Lord. So why then is God invisible?
He is invisible only because we refuse to see Him.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
homemade Pimento cheese
I like pimento cheese on celery as a snack but I don't buy pimento cheese at the grocery store because i don't think it has much flavor and it costs too much. Today I decided to make my own. I purc hased an eight ounce block of sharp cheddar cheese and a 4 oz jar of pimentos. I sherred the cheese, added the pinmentos, mixed it some Duke's sprinkled in some salt and pepper and had a delicious treat. Believe me, it is much better than anything Star or Ruth's ever produced; and much cheaper too.
Of course, one can make variations on this simple recipe acording to ones taste. Four ounces of cheddar and some Monteray or Colby cheese can be used or use four ounches of cheddar and some pepper jack. Whatever ones taste. But the recipe is still simple an easy. I purchase the block and shred it because it is cheaper than the already shredded but to save some time call the General uh, I mean, by all means use the shredded cheese.
Of course, one can make variations on this simple recipe acording to ones taste. Four ounces of cheddar and some Monteray or Colby cheese can be used or use four ounches of cheddar and some pepper jack. Whatever ones taste. But the recipe is still simple an easy. I purchase the block and shred it because it is cheaper than the already shredded but to save some time call the General uh, I mean, by all means use the shredded cheese.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
ungrateful kids
He was broke, no car, no job and about to lose his home and his daughter. His only hope was to borrow some money and quickly. But he had no credit and no collateral. So he turned to his mother. She came through for him to the tune of several thousand dollars.
He got him some transportation, paid his rent and found himself a job. And he repaid his mother. The only problem was he was asked to repay the loan in small monthly payments but he just had to repay the loan in one lump sum from a tax return. The whole point was to try to teach him to make wise money decision and to budget his money. Of course his mother was glad he repaid her but disappointed that he refused to learn the lesson she needed him to learn.
Well, it didn't take long for him to to find himself in desparate straights again and seeking another loan from his mother. Only this time she didn't have it. She could take in her granddaughter for the summer. It would give her a chance to bond with her granddaughter and take some of the pressure of of him. No, he siaid he would find another way.
As time went on he became more cold and distant from his mother and when she suffered a serious illness he never responded at all. Finally, six months later she reached out to him via a letter. He did call her but to cuss her out for not being there for him, for trying to take his daughter away from him, and to tell her that the God she believed in wasn't real and religion was just voodoo. He said he didn't have any family.
That really hurt her. She didn't deserve that.
He got him some transportation, paid his rent and found himself a job. And he repaid his mother. The only problem was he was asked to repay the loan in small monthly payments but he just had to repay the loan in one lump sum from a tax return. The whole point was to try to teach him to make wise money decision and to budget his money. Of course his mother was glad he repaid her but disappointed that he refused to learn the lesson she needed him to learn.
Well, it didn't take long for him to to find himself in desparate straights again and seeking another loan from his mother. Only this time she didn't have it. She could take in her granddaughter for the summer. It would give her a chance to bond with her granddaughter and take some of the pressure of of him. No, he siaid he would find another way.
As time went on he became more cold and distant from his mother and when she suffered a serious illness he never responded at all. Finally, six months later she reached out to him via a letter. He did call her but to cuss her out for not being there for him, for trying to take his daughter away from him, and to tell her that the God she believed in wasn't real and religion was just voodoo. He said he didn't have any family.
That really hurt her. She didn't deserve that.
Friday, February 15, 2013
10 formerly popular girls names
Joyce, ranked 969. I had a cousin named Joyce and went to school with a Joyce.
Rosanne, ranked 14, 265. Of course most people know Roseanne Barr. I knew a Roseanna once, the daughter of a good friend. Hattie, number 993, is my mother-in-laws name. Dorothy, number 937, was the name of a former girlfriend. Madeline was the name of one of my favorite comedians. You might remember her from Blazing Saddles with her rendition of "I'm so tired".
Willow is another pretty name and the name of the girl who was one of Buffy the Vampire Slayers sidekicks and also one of the stars of "How I met your Mother". And who could forget Pamela Anderson? I've know many a girl named Pam and even dated a couple, one from Huntsville, Texas and one from Opelika, Alabama.
Anne, number 996, was the first name of a girl I had a crush on in high school. Leona at 929 is the name of that mean woman, Mrs. Helmsly.
The last name on the list, Janet, is the 951st popular name. I'm sure most of us have heart of Janet Jackson.
So I know people with 5 of these formerly popular names and know of the other five.
How about you?
Rosanne, ranked 14, 265. Of course most people know Roseanne Barr. I knew a Roseanna once, the daughter of a good friend. Hattie, number 993, is my mother-in-laws name. Dorothy, number 937, was the name of a former girlfriend. Madeline was the name of one of my favorite comedians. You might remember her from Blazing Saddles with her rendition of "I'm so tired".
Willow is another pretty name and the name of the girl who was one of Buffy the Vampire Slayers sidekicks and also one of the stars of "How I met your Mother". And who could forget Pamela Anderson? I've know many a girl named Pam and even dated a couple, one from Huntsville, Texas and one from Opelika, Alabama.
Anne, number 996, was the first name of a girl I had a crush on in high school. Leona at 929 is the name of that mean woman, Mrs. Helmsly.
The last name on the list, Janet, is the 951st popular name. I'm sure most of us have heart of Janet Jackson.
So I know people with 5 of these formerly popular names and know of the other five.
How about you?
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Upside down fish
Late last fall I noticed one of my larger Koi was floating upside down in the middle of the pond. I assumed it had perished for some unknown reason but it was in such a position I could not fish it out. It was a cold rainy day so I thought it better for me to wait for a nicer day before I uncovered the pond to fish it out.
It was a good while later when I found the time to make another attempt to get the fish out of the pond but it was no longer in the middle of the pond but floating near the edge so it would be rather easy to get out . When I touched the fish with the net, it turned upright and swam away. What a surprise!
It didn't swim like a normal koi but only used the fins on its right side. After it stopped, it rolled back over on its' back. It is still alive. Maybe it had a stroke and is paralyzed on the left side. Maybe it will recover in time. I don't want to kill a living creature but neither do I want it to suffer. I am going to wait until spring when I clean my pond to retrieve it if it is still alive and I will place it in a tank of its own so other creatures will not bother it.
Any one know of a reason for its behavior or a reasonable course of action concerning this fish?
It was a good while later when I found the time to make another attempt to get the fish out of the pond but it was no longer in the middle of the pond but floating near the edge so it would be rather easy to get out . When I touched the fish with the net, it turned upright and swam away. What a surprise!
It didn't swim like a normal koi but only used the fins on its right side. After it stopped, it rolled back over on its' back. It is still alive. Maybe it had a stroke and is paralyzed on the left side. Maybe it will recover in time. I don't want to kill a living creature but neither do I want it to suffer. I am going to wait until spring when I clean my pond to retrieve it if it is still alive and I will place it in a tank of its own so other creatures will not bother it.
Any one know of a reason for its behavior or a reasonable course of action concerning this fish?
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
I'm back with the Asheboro paper
As a present an in-law purchased a subscription to the Courier-Tribune for me and after a couple of years I dropped them and started taking the News and Record. One of the main reseanos I dropped the Asheboro paper is that someone had damaged my newspaper box and I repeated asked that it be replaced but it never was.
With the News and Rrecord I received a new set-up. I liked some of the expanded sections. However the paper wasn't always delivered and when it was no one could be quite sure what time of day it would get here. I missed the local stories about what was happening in my community. I get my state, national, and world news from TV and the internet and I can find out the important stories from Greensboro and Winston-Salem there as well. But there isn't anything about my friends and neighbors any where but hte courier-Tribune.
I like the law log and the gardening section and I did enjoy some of the local feature writers work even though I don't always like them personally or agree with their viewpoint.
But most of all I liked the dependability of my delivery person. I know when I get up at 4 am on a bitterly cold and maybe rainy morning and head out to the curb, my paper was nice and dry in the delivery box where it should be.
With the News and Rrecord I received a new set-up. I liked some of the expanded sections. However the paper wasn't always delivered and when it was no one could be quite sure what time of day it would get here. I missed the local stories about what was happening in my community. I get my state, national, and world news from TV and the internet and I can find out the important stories from Greensboro and Winston-Salem there as well. But there isn't anything about my friends and neighbors any where but hte courier-Tribune.
I like the law log and the gardening section and I did enjoy some of the local feature writers work even though I don't always like them personally or agree with their viewpoint.
But most of all I liked the dependability of my delivery person. I know when I get up at 4 am on a bitterly cold and maybe rainy morning and head out to the curb, my paper was nice and dry in the delivery box where it should be.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Gardening News
I'm excited about this coming spring. I've built my grape arbor and rooted new grape vines. Besides the sixteen feet of vines I already have, I'll have an addtional 24 feet. I just have to find me some vit B0-1 tablets to crush up and add to the water when I plant my vines. I do believe it is 2 tabs per gallonof water and four gallons of water per vine.
I just havested the last of my carrots and shredded them for carrot-rasin salad. I don't care for it with pneapple in it like Golden Coral serves. Just carrots and rasins. In case you didn't know, you do not have to harvest your carrots at the end of the growing season. Just leave them in the garden and pick when you want some fresh carrots. Some recomment covering them with a board during the winter but I don't and mine have done just fine. Carrots from the garden have a strong taste than ones you buy at the store. Of course, the ones at the store would have tasted like home grown if you could eat them fresh picked.
I like cooked carrots. Many people don't. If you are one of those, I suggest sprinkling some brown sugar on them when you cook them. They taste like sweet potatoes then. Sweet sweet potatoes.
I'm planting all my vine plants at the Sunset Street garden except for my tomatoes. I'll have a separate garden spot for them in the back yard. My regular garden in the big space beside my house.
I'll have my pumpkin garden this year as well as cataloupes, watermelon, and maybe some gourds. Come fall, if you need some gourds or pumpkins for decorations or pies, look me up. Organic produce cheaper than Walmart.
I just havested the last of my carrots and shredded them for carrot-rasin salad. I don't care for it with pneapple in it like Golden Coral serves. Just carrots and rasins. In case you didn't know, you do not have to harvest your carrots at the end of the growing season. Just leave them in the garden and pick when you want some fresh carrots. Some recomment covering them with a board during the winter but I don't and mine have done just fine. Carrots from the garden have a strong taste than ones you buy at the store. Of course, the ones at the store would have tasted like home grown if you could eat them fresh picked.
I like cooked carrots. Many people don't. If you are one of those, I suggest sprinkling some brown sugar on them when you cook them. They taste like sweet potatoes then. Sweet sweet potatoes.
I'm planting all my vine plants at the Sunset Street garden except for my tomatoes. I'll have a separate garden spot for them in the back yard. My regular garden in the big space beside my house.
I'll have my pumpkin garden this year as well as cataloupes, watermelon, and maybe some gourds. Come fall, if you need some gourds or pumpkins for decorations or pies, look me up. Organic produce cheaper than Walmart.
Monday, February 11, 2013
The pope is quitting. What does this mean?
Some people believe that there is a prediction about how many Popes there will be and according to those predictions there won't be but one more before the world ends. Of course, no one knows how long the next pope will live.
No one know when Christ will return. The apostle Paul didn't know. Even Jesus himself did not know. I have no idea how anyone else would have a clue as to how many Popes there would be before Christ's return either.
I firmly believe that he will come back when everyone has quit looking for him. Anticipation is high because many believe that there has been thousand years gaps in great events and because they believe the bible says that a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day. The six days of creation and the seventh day of rest equates to six thousand years of man on earth as ruler and the thousand years reigh of Christ. It was two thousand years from Adam and Eve being kicked out of the garden until the flood and two more thousand years until the birth of Christ. It now has been two thousand years since His birth so it is time. But soon, people will quit believing. Few actually believe now and more and more people are becoming hostile to the idea of God really existing and that Christ is God in the flesh and that he really lives and is coming back. Most people today, even in the USA believe that isn't true. Few people actually trust God and Jesus Christ.
No one know when Christ will return. The apostle Paul didn't know. Even Jesus himself did not know. I have no idea how anyone else would have a clue as to how many Popes there would be before Christ's return either.
I firmly believe that he will come back when everyone has quit looking for him. Anticipation is high because many believe that there has been thousand years gaps in great events and because they believe the bible says that a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day. The six days of creation and the seventh day of rest equates to six thousand years of man on earth as ruler and the thousand years reigh of Christ. It was two thousand years from Adam and Eve being kicked out of the garden until the flood and two more thousand years until the birth of Christ. It now has been two thousand years since His birth so it is time. But soon, people will quit believing. Few actually believe now and more and more people are becoming hostile to the idea of God really existing and that Christ is God in the flesh and that he really lives and is coming back. Most people today, even in the USA believe that isn't true. Few people actually trust God and Jesus Christ.
Friday, February 08, 2013
Offer on property
I have a piece of land for sale in the mounttains and I was asked if I would consider owner financing. Anyone have any ideas about what is a fair deal?
Thursday, February 07, 2013
ze-a-Palooza: Kathie Lee and Hoda’s Dry Spell ...
After going 30 days without a drink of alcohol katie Lee and Hoda celebrated with a glass of wine. Thirty days is a piece of cake. It has been twenty-one years for me.
Monday, February 04, 2013
A different world
A different world was the name of a TV program and is also a reality not only in different places around the globe but in the life I live. When I was young it seemed most people were either Christians or had respect for Christians. For the most part it was a good world. It was far from perfect though.
I believe Vietnam did more to change the world I knew more than anything else. I just can't imagine anyone taking someone serious who thought that prayer should be banned from schools. Yet during Vietnam the drug culture was introduced to American youth, people became brave and foolish enough to flee to other countries to avoid their duty to their country, values changed, music changed and the world in which I grew up in ceased to exist.
I believe that people should be allowed to own guns but I just don't believe guns makes people as safe as gun owners believe they do. It's not the gun laws or lack thereof that makes the American society so dangerous but the value system we now have in place. There is a large anti-government sentiment. Police are not liked, drugs are either embaraced or tolerated, and not believing in God and being hostile towards that do are the ideas that make this country far less safe than it should be.
Things are such now that it is not even safe to invite people to church. I am certain this isn't the type of world I want to live in and I know that the problem is far bigger than I can possible handle. Christ tried to love people and he was crucified for it. I've tried for two years to get people to come to church and have failed.
The preacher thought maybe it was the hard benches that were in sore need of replacing so we purchased chairs with 4" of padding but no one came. He thinks now it is the size of the building but i've seen smaller and far less attractive facilities serve as a meeting places and they grew into grew churches. "Maybe it what I preach" was a sentiment expressed by our pastor but if no one comes how do they know how or what he preaches?
I don't know what the secret is. All I do know is I b elieve God placed me there and I will stay there until either God tells me to move on, I die, or I'm the only one left. I just pray that some people that love Christ and want to do his will and his work will find there way there. If they could, just maybe this could become a different world, one in which we will feel safe and proud to live in.
I believe Vietnam did more to change the world I knew more than anything else. I just can't imagine anyone taking someone serious who thought that prayer should be banned from schools. Yet during Vietnam the drug culture was introduced to American youth, people became brave and foolish enough to flee to other countries to avoid their duty to their country, values changed, music changed and the world in which I grew up in ceased to exist.
I believe that people should be allowed to own guns but I just don't believe guns makes people as safe as gun owners believe they do. It's not the gun laws or lack thereof that makes the American society so dangerous but the value system we now have in place. There is a large anti-government sentiment. Police are not liked, drugs are either embaraced or tolerated, and not believing in God and being hostile towards that do are the ideas that make this country far less safe than it should be.
Things are such now that it is not even safe to invite people to church. I am certain this isn't the type of world I want to live in and I know that the problem is far bigger than I can possible handle. Christ tried to love people and he was crucified for it. I've tried for two years to get people to come to church and have failed.
The preacher thought maybe it was the hard benches that were in sore need of replacing so we purchased chairs with 4" of padding but no one came. He thinks now it is the size of the building but i've seen smaller and far less attractive facilities serve as a meeting places and they grew into grew churches. "Maybe it what I preach" was a sentiment expressed by our pastor but if no one comes how do they know how or what he preaches?
I don't know what the secret is. All I do know is I b elieve God placed me there and I will stay there until either God tells me to move on, I die, or I'm the only one left. I just pray that some people that love Christ and want to do his will and his work will find there way there. If they could, just maybe this could become a different world, one in which we will feel safe and proud to live in.
Sunday, February 03, 2013
Courier-Tribune makes mistake
The singing at One Way Baptist church on February 10, 2013 will be held at 10 am until 12, not at 6 pm reported by the paper. I sent the copy correctly but I guess they just wanted to make stuff up.
Saturday, February 02, 2013
Mountan Joy on the tenth
Eight days and counting. Mountain Joy will be appearing at One Way Baptist Church in Randleman on the 10th of February. One Way Baptist is located on Sunset (runs between 220 Business and Stout Street. Turn left onto Sunset in front of Sir Pizza on 220 business-Main Street),
Sunday School is at 10 c'clock and Worship Service starts at 10:45 but instead of our regualr service Mountain Joy will be singing for us. I suggest that you come at ten as seating is limited. No decision has been made about having Sunday School yet but even if we do, you will enjoy that as we have an excellent teacher.
Sunday School is at 10 c'clock and Worship Service starts at 10:45 but instead of our regualr service Mountain Joy will be singing for us. I suggest that you come at ten as seating is limited. No decision has been made about having Sunday School yet but even if we do, you will enjoy that as we have an excellent teacher.
You really can't worship God and not go to church
I once was shown an illustration about the importance of church attendance. Pour charcoal in the center of your grill and light them. After the coals start getting hot, take one and set it off to the side. Which briquette goes out first: the one by itself our one in the pile?
I have met many people who say they don't like organized religion or say they can worship God just as well without going to church. Yet the scriptures say not to forsake the assembling of ourselves so if we don't go to church then we are not obeying God's word. If we are out of his will we are out of his fellowship.
I have never met anyone who does not attend church who regularly studies the bible, supports missionaries, takes care of widows and the elderly, and does all the functions that are normally done by a God-fearing church. We need the church to encourage us and to give us support and knowledge. More can be accomplished by the collective will than any individual can accomplish on their own.
Attending church does not make one holy, righteous or saved but how will your neighbors know you even believe in God if you never attend church? You really can't make an effective witness for Christ when you live in disobedience to him.
How is your prayer life? Are you finding that your prayers seem to lack power and never receive an answer? The fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much we are told. We are also told that if we have ought against our brother go and forgive him and then come back and pray. Prayer will not be heard by God if we have unconfessed sin and purposely failing to obey God is a sin.
Those people who fail to attend church do not keep the Lord's Day holy, do not give their tithes and offerings, do not have an effective prayer life if they have one at all, do not study God's word, do not witness nor support those that do.
I realize that a person's Christian life is what goes on itside him and not what goes on around him but we must bear fruit or we are of no use to God. I have never seen a tomato plant, squash, corn nor any other vegatable growing in the wild but always in a garden. I have never met a person that was actively working for God, growing in faith and knowledge that was not attending church.
I have met many people who say they don't like organized religion or say they can worship God just as well without going to church. Yet the scriptures say not to forsake the assembling of ourselves so if we don't go to church then we are not obeying God's word. If we are out of his will we are out of his fellowship.
I have never met anyone who does not attend church who regularly studies the bible, supports missionaries, takes care of widows and the elderly, and does all the functions that are normally done by a God-fearing church. We need the church to encourage us and to give us support and knowledge. More can be accomplished by the collective will than any individual can accomplish on their own.
Attending church does not make one holy, righteous or saved but how will your neighbors know you even believe in God if you never attend church? You really can't make an effective witness for Christ when you live in disobedience to him.
How is your prayer life? Are you finding that your prayers seem to lack power and never receive an answer? The fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much we are told. We are also told that if we have ought against our brother go and forgive him and then come back and pray. Prayer will not be heard by God if we have unconfessed sin and purposely failing to obey God is a sin.
Those people who fail to attend church do not keep the Lord's Day holy, do not give their tithes and offerings, do not have an effective prayer life if they have one at all, do not study God's word, do not witness nor support those that do.
I realize that a person's Christian life is what goes on itside him and not what goes on around him but we must bear fruit or we are of no use to God. I have never seen a tomato plant, squash, corn nor any other vegatable growing in the wild but always in a garden. I have never met a person that was actively working for God, growing in faith and knowledge that was not attending church.
Friday, February 01, 2013
Me 1, Insurance company zero
On Oct 17, 2012 my wife fell while we were on vacation in Mt. Airy. As a result of the fall I took her to the Mt. Airy hospital where she received a CAT scan and then was rushed to Baptist because of a brain bleed. There she received an MRI which showed the bleed was in the center of the brain. She has also suffered damaged to her 4th cranial nerve resulting in blurred vision.
A week after her release she was talking incoherently and the rescue squad was called but by the time they examined her she was able to answer questions so she was not transported. However the next day I found her passed out in the laundry room and I did have her transported to Moses Cone where they diud a MRA which is an MRI with the dye. The reason for her gibberish talking and her passing out were diagnosed as mini-strokes caused by flakes of blood from her brain injury. She was placed on anti-seizure medication.
My wife had an accident policy and they denied her claim saying the medical evidence showed she suffered an aneurysm. What all the doctors have told me has been the same story. Brain bleeds in the center of the brain are usually caused by aneurysms and not falls they cannot find evidence of an aneurysm. I needed a statement from a doctor that stated that her brain injury was not caused by an aneurysm. Today, a doctor confirmed that and is sending me a letter that states that fact.
All other possible medical conditions have been ruled out.
Me 1, insurance zero.
A week after her release she was talking incoherently and the rescue squad was called but by the time they examined her she was able to answer questions so she was not transported. However the next day I found her passed out in the laundry room and I did have her transported to Moses Cone where they diud a MRA which is an MRI with the dye. The reason for her gibberish talking and her passing out were diagnosed as mini-strokes caused by flakes of blood from her brain injury. She was placed on anti-seizure medication.
My wife had an accident policy and they denied her claim saying the medical evidence showed she suffered an aneurysm. What all the doctors have told me has been the same story. Brain bleeds in the center of the brain are usually caused by aneurysms and not falls they cannot find evidence of an aneurysm. I needed a statement from a doctor that stated that her brain injury was not caused by an aneurysm. Today, a doctor confirmed that and is sending me a letter that states that fact.
All other possible medical conditions have been ruled out.
Me 1, insurance zero.
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