Philippians 2:3 -- "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."
Galatians 6:2 -- "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."
Luke 10:27 -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and Love your neighbor as yourself."
Matthew 7:12 -- "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
Ephesians 4:12 -- "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Proverbs 12:10 -- "Good people take care of their animals, but wicked people are cruel to theirs."
Monday, December 30, 2019
Saturday, December 28, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- II Peter 1:5-7
Thank you for taking the time to read this edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope that everyone had a good Christmas, and I hope that everyone has a great 2020. I thank the Lord for giving me the opportunity to present this message today.
Last week, we took one week out of our series on II Peter to discuss the events of the birth of Jesus and what they mean to us. Today, we will be concentrating once again on the Lord's message to us from II Peter.
In our last message from II Peter, we saw that we have been set free from this world and its lusts by the Lord Jesus. He has given us His great and precious promises, and He has allowed us to be partakers of His divine nature.
Because of the fact that we have been set free from sin through faith in Jesus Christ, Peter instructs us that there should be certain qualities in our lives that are growing as we progress in our Christian walk. In II Peter 1:5-7 it states, "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control-perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
In today's message, I want to look at these qualities mentioned by Peter, and see what they mean for our lives. We start with virtue. Another Bible version translates this word as goodness. After we have come to faith in Jesus Christ, we should act in such a way that we are doing what is right and morally excellent. We have been instructed how to behave in this world by the Lord Jesus Himself. As His followers, we are to read what He has told us to do, and then we are to demonstrate our faith and love by doing what we've been told.
We are to also be growing in our knowledge of the things of the Lord after we've come to know Him. I believe that one of the characteristics of someone who truly has a possession of faith is the desire to know more about the Bible and the teachings of the Lord Jesus. I am always distressed when I come across those who profess to be believers, but they are not interested in knowing more about what the Lord has taught us within His Word. Peter will tell us in chapter 3 of this epistle that we are to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
After knowledge, Peter talks about self-control. Self-control is also listed by Paul as one of the fruits of the Spirit. When we have received the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to resist those things that would lead us into sin. We have the power to overcome those forces that would tempt us to engage in behaviors that are not pleasing to the Lord.
Perseverance. To me, this means moving ahead and believing in Jesus in spite of obstacles and hardships. The person who is steadfast in the faith keeps on trusting in Jesus even when hard times come. In His parable of the sower and seeds, Jesus talks about seed that fell on the soil and started to grow. However, when the weeds, which are the cares and troubles of this world, began to grow up, they withered and died. They did not persevere in the faith. They left the faith, and they stopped following the Lord.
Difficult times will come. We will not always understand why the Lord allows certain problems to come into our lives. We all will have moments when it can be hard to trust and believe. Those who are firmly rooted in the love of Jesus can persevere and keep trusting and believing in the goodness and grace of God.
We are then told by Peter that those who have come to faith in the Lord act in a godly manner. I interpret this as doing what Jesus did and doing what Jesus said. It is about keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and letting His example be what we follow in all of our actions in this life.
Brotherly kindness is next on the list. Those who belong to Jesus are part of a family. We are brothers and sisters in Christ. We are to help one another and bear one another's burdens. We are to act the way that the early followers of Jesus did in the book of Acts. We must love our brothers and sisters in the faith.
The final quality on Peter's list is love. We are to love all. Jesus said that we are even to love our enemies. This is a hard thing to do. However, Jesus is the man of love. His love led Him to lay down His life for us. We imitate Him by acting in love to those who are in this world. Love demonstrates itself in helping others and helping to make this world a better place. Love demonstrates itself when we do what Jesus would do. We show love for others when we tell them about how much Jesus loves them and wants to have a relationship with them.
I think what it all comes down to is that if we have been redeemed by Jesus and accept Him as Lord, we should follow Him. Those who follow the teachings and the commandments of Jesus in this world demonstrate that they are no longer of this world, but they are citizens of a Heavenly Kingdom and they follow the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
I had a nice Christmas holiday. It was actually one of the nicest times I've had during the holidays for the last several years. I am hoping and praying for a good new year. I would ask that you pray about one matter. Even though it is wintertime, the area where I live has the possibility of severe storms today. Please pray that these storms won't be bad and that there won't be any flooding. Thank you.
In other matters, please pray for those in the Philippines who have been harmed by the storm there. Pray that they will receive the aid and assistance that they need.
Remember to pray for those in Samoa and Congo who are dealing with various types of sickness. Pray that these problems will end soon.
We need to remember to pray for those harmed by the volcano in New Zealand. Several were burned badly, and we must pray that they will be OK.
Remember to pray for peace, there was an attack in Somalia this week. That nation needs prayers for peace, and we need to pray for peace in Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and Libya as well.
For our prayer focus countries this week. let us pray for those who live in China and in Senegal. Pray that many will hear the good news that Jesus loves them.
Next week, we will continue with our series in II Peter, and I will post the message on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will not be posting anything midweek this week. The book reviews will resume the following week. May God bless you all. Amen.
Last week, we took one week out of our series on II Peter to discuss the events of the birth of Jesus and what they mean to us. Today, we will be concentrating once again on the Lord's message to us from II Peter.
In our last message from II Peter, we saw that we have been set free from this world and its lusts by the Lord Jesus. He has given us His great and precious promises, and He has allowed us to be partakers of His divine nature.
Because of the fact that we have been set free from sin through faith in Jesus Christ, Peter instructs us that there should be certain qualities in our lives that are growing as we progress in our Christian walk. In II Peter 1:5-7 it states, "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control-perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
In today's message, I want to look at these qualities mentioned by Peter, and see what they mean for our lives. We start with virtue. Another Bible version translates this word as goodness. After we have come to faith in Jesus Christ, we should act in such a way that we are doing what is right and morally excellent. We have been instructed how to behave in this world by the Lord Jesus Himself. As His followers, we are to read what He has told us to do, and then we are to demonstrate our faith and love by doing what we've been told.
We are to also be growing in our knowledge of the things of the Lord after we've come to know Him. I believe that one of the characteristics of someone who truly has a possession of faith is the desire to know more about the Bible and the teachings of the Lord Jesus. I am always distressed when I come across those who profess to be believers, but they are not interested in knowing more about what the Lord has taught us within His Word. Peter will tell us in chapter 3 of this epistle that we are to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
After knowledge, Peter talks about self-control. Self-control is also listed by Paul as one of the fruits of the Spirit. When we have received the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to resist those things that would lead us into sin. We have the power to overcome those forces that would tempt us to engage in behaviors that are not pleasing to the Lord.
Perseverance. To me, this means moving ahead and believing in Jesus in spite of obstacles and hardships. The person who is steadfast in the faith keeps on trusting in Jesus even when hard times come. In His parable of the sower and seeds, Jesus talks about seed that fell on the soil and started to grow. However, when the weeds, which are the cares and troubles of this world, began to grow up, they withered and died. They did not persevere in the faith. They left the faith, and they stopped following the Lord.
Difficult times will come. We will not always understand why the Lord allows certain problems to come into our lives. We all will have moments when it can be hard to trust and believe. Those who are firmly rooted in the love of Jesus can persevere and keep trusting and believing in the goodness and grace of God.
We are then told by Peter that those who have come to faith in the Lord act in a godly manner. I interpret this as doing what Jesus did and doing what Jesus said. It is about keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and letting His example be what we follow in all of our actions in this life.
Brotherly kindness is next on the list. Those who belong to Jesus are part of a family. We are brothers and sisters in Christ. We are to help one another and bear one another's burdens. We are to act the way that the early followers of Jesus did in the book of Acts. We must love our brothers and sisters in the faith.
The final quality on Peter's list is love. We are to love all. Jesus said that we are even to love our enemies. This is a hard thing to do. However, Jesus is the man of love. His love led Him to lay down His life for us. We imitate Him by acting in love to those who are in this world. Love demonstrates itself in helping others and helping to make this world a better place. Love demonstrates itself when we do what Jesus would do. We show love for others when we tell them about how much Jesus loves them and wants to have a relationship with them.
I think what it all comes down to is that if we have been redeemed by Jesus and accept Him as Lord, we should follow Him. Those who follow the teachings and the commandments of Jesus in this world demonstrate that they are no longer of this world, but they are citizens of a Heavenly Kingdom and they follow the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
I had a nice Christmas holiday. It was actually one of the nicest times I've had during the holidays for the last several years. I am hoping and praying for a good new year. I would ask that you pray about one matter. Even though it is wintertime, the area where I live has the possibility of severe storms today. Please pray that these storms won't be bad and that there won't be any flooding. Thank you.
In other matters, please pray for those in the Philippines who have been harmed by the storm there. Pray that they will receive the aid and assistance that they need.
Remember to pray for those in Samoa and Congo who are dealing with various types of sickness. Pray that these problems will end soon.
We need to remember to pray for those harmed by the volcano in New Zealand. Several were burned badly, and we must pray that they will be OK.
Remember to pray for peace, there was an attack in Somalia this week. That nation needs prayers for peace, and we need to pray for peace in Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and Libya as well.
For our prayer focus countries this week. let us pray for those who live in China and in Senegal. Pray that many will hear the good news that Jesus loves them.
Next week, we will continue with our series in II Peter, and I will post the message on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will not be posting anything midweek this week. The book reviews will resume the following week. May God bless you all. Amen.
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Animal Book Of The Year
Today I will present the Animal Book Of The Year Award. The clear winner among the animal books I read this year is "The Rise of Wolf 8" by Rick McIntyre. I reviewed this book not very long ago, so I won't go over what I already said. I will say this. I believe that this is one of the best animal books that I've read. The wolves presented in this book are described in detail. This is an educational and an exciting book to read. There are supposed to be two more books in this trilogy. I will definitely be reading them.
Tuesday, December 24, 2019
A Few Christmas Memories
I just wanted to repost this piece I wrote a few years ago. Merry Christmas everyone.
The best Christmas memory I have from when I was a young boy didn't start out that well. When I was young, I had extremely poor health. Just before Christmas, I had been sick with a terrible bout of pneumonia. The doctor's weren't even sure that I was going to make it to Christmas.
That Christmas, the gift I wanted more than anything else was a Stretch Monster. This was a type of action-figure that was filled with some type of solution that allowed it to stretch far out and then return to normal size. They were very hard to find, and I kind of doubted that my folks would be able to get one.
That year, my health improved just before Christmas Day. Waiting for me under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning was a Stretch Monster. I kept that thing for 25 years. Eventually, it fell apart.
My best Christmas memories in more recent years involved my friend Toby. I remember one Christmas Eve that was very fun. The two of us were together by ourselves because my parents had gone to a Christmas party with my Dad's children from his first marriage.
For Christmas that year, I received a telescope that I'd wanted for a long time. On Christmas Eve, I decided to assemble the telescope and go out for an observation session. I'd loved astronomy for a long time, and I studied astronomy in college for a little while.
As always, Toby had to be a part of whatever I was doing. While I was trying to assemble the telescope and the mount, Toby kept crawling in and out of the boxes and pushing the packing materials all over the living room floor.
I finally got the scope set up, and Toby and I went out to observe. It was a clear and beautiful Christmas Eve night. We stayed out for hours looking at the stars filled with awe and wonder at the creative power of the Lord.
The last Christmas Eve that I spent with Toby was extra special. Toby had been diagnosed with liver cancer the previous May. He had surgery, but the oncologist had not expected him to live more than six weeks. Toby was still going during Thanksgiving, but when December rolled around, he wasn't feeling well at all.
I thought that the cancer was finally taking its toll, but Toby had a very bad lung infection. It took about three full weeks of treatment, but by the grace of God, Toby pulled through. Since he had been so sick, I chose to stay with him during Christmas Eve.
I love listening to the BBC on radio, and they often have religious broadcasts on. I tuned in on Christmas Eve because I knew that they were going to have a broadcast from a large cathedral in England.
It was a beautiful service. During the message, the dean of the cathedral spoke about remembering those who are important to you at Christmas time. He invited everyone to lay their hand on someone they love and repeat a Christmas prayer of thankfulness. I placed my hand on my friend Toby and thanked Jesus that Toby and I could spend another holiday season together.
By the way, in spite of what the oncologist said, Toby lived for 13 months after his surgery. It was one of the best years of my life.
I hope that all of you who read this blog have some great Christmas memories. I hope that this Christmas season is filled with peace and joy for you all. Give God all the glory this Christmas for the gift of His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
The best Christmas memory I have from when I was a young boy didn't start out that well. When I was young, I had extremely poor health. Just before Christmas, I had been sick with a terrible bout of pneumonia. The doctor's weren't even sure that I was going to make it to Christmas.
That Christmas, the gift I wanted more than anything else was a Stretch Monster. This was a type of action-figure that was filled with some type of solution that allowed it to stretch far out and then return to normal size. They were very hard to find, and I kind of doubted that my folks would be able to get one.
That year, my health improved just before Christmas Day. Waiting for me under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning was a Stretch Monster. I kept that thing for 25 years. Eventually, it fell apart.
My best Christmas memories in more recent years involved my friend Toby. I remember one Christmas Eve that was very fun. The two of us were together by ourselves because my parents had gone to a Christmas party with my Dad's children from his first marriage.
For Christmas that year, I received a telescope that I'd wanted for a long time. On Christmas Eve, I decided to assemble the telescope and go out for an observation session. I'd loved astronomy for a long time, and I studied astronomy in college for a little while.
As always, Toby had to be a part of whatever I was doing. While I was trying to assemble the telescope and the mount, Toby kept crawling in and out of the boxes and pushing the packing materials all over the living room floor.
I finally got the scope set up, and Toby and I went out to observe. It was a clear and beautiful Christmas Eve night. We stayed out for hours looking at the stars filled with awe and wonder at the creative power of the Lord.
The last Christmas Eve that I spent with Toby was extra special. Toby had been diagnosed with liver cancer the previous May. He had surgery, but the oncologist had not expected him to live more than six weeks. Toby was still going during Thanksgiving, but when December rolled around, he wasn't feeling well at all.
I thought that the cancer was finally taking its toll, but Toby had a very bad lung infection. It took about three full weeks of treatment, but by the grace of God, Toby pulled through. Since he had been so sick, I chose to stay with him during Christmas Eve.
I love listening to the BBC on radio, and they often have religious broadcasts on. I tuned in on Christmas Eve because I knew that they were going to have a broadcast from a large cathedral in England.
It was a beautiful service. During the message, the dean of the cathedral spoke about remembering those who are important to you at Christmas time. He invited everyone to lay their hand on someone they love and repeat a Christmas prayer of thankfulness. I placed my hand on my friend Toby and thanked Jesus that Toby and I could spend another holiday season together.
By the way, in spite of what the oncologist said, Toby lived for 13 months after his surgery. It was one of the best years of my life.
I hope that all of you who read this blog have some great Christmas memories. I hope that this Christmas season is filled with peace and joy for you all. Give God all the glory this Christmas for the gift of His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
Monday, December 23, 2019
Verses For The Week
John 1:1 -- "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
John 1:14 -- "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
Philippians 2:7 -- "He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."
John 1:14 -- "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
Philippians 2:7 -- "He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Spirit Of Christmas
Welcome to this Christmas edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope that everyone has been having a wonderful holiday season. I thank the Lord for the opportunity to post this message.
For the last couple of weeks, we've been in a series of messages about II Peter. We will continue with that series once again next week. This week, I wanted to bring a message about the Christmas season and the First Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Over the last few weeks, I've been thinking about the idea of the spirit of Christmas. What are some of the themes of Christmas, and how can we carry these themes and ideas with us throughout the entire year.
I have decided that three of the most important things that we can think about during the holiday season are the ideas of love, joy and peace. To me, this signifies what Christmas is all about.
Let's start with peace. When the angels came to the shepherds and announced the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, they brought the message of peace on earth. One of the titles of the Messiah given to us in Isaiah 9:6 is the Prince of Peace.
Jesus came to this earth to bring peace into the troubled hearts of people. Those who place their trust in Jesus can know the peace that passes all understanding. Jesus told us that He was leaving us with His peace.
Jesus also brings peace to the earth in another way. However, so many of those in this world don't accept Jesus' gift of peace. There is so much war in this world that it is sickening. Jesus came to show the way to peace. He told us how to live in peace with one another by following His clear teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. If those of us who name Jesus as Lord would truly follow His teachings and commandments, it would go so far in helping this world know what peace is.
Another part of the spirit of Christmas is joy. The angels brought good news that was to bring great joy to all people. Joy comes to us because God is with us. Jesus is God who has come to us. We don't have to be alone. The Lord has come to be with and to guide us. We can be joyful knowing the He will never leave us, and He will never ever forsake us.
Let us keep the joy of Christmas going all year long. Let us find ways to bring happiness and joy to others. Let us keep the joy of the Lord in our lives by realizing that He is with us always.
Finally, the spirit of Christmas is about love. John 3:16 tells us that God loved the world and sent His only Son that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. Love is what truly brought Jesus to this earth on Christmas Day. Because He loved us, Jesus came to bring us life and to bring us hope. Through His example, we know how to live in this world. Through His death, He brought atonement and forgiveness of sins. Through His resurrection, Jesus defeated death. When He comes again, Jesus will restore all things and bring justice.
Let us keep the spirit of love alive all year. Let the love of the Lord Jesus fill your heart, and then spread the love of the Lord Jesus to everyone.
I hope that everyone has a wonderful Christmas this year. May God bless you all. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
This has been one of the best weeks I've had in my writing, and I am very thankful to the Lord for providing a lot of work. I've been feeling pretty well, and I thank the Lord for this.
In prayer this week, please pray for Australia. The fires in that country are terrible. There is a great need for rain. Please pray that these fires will be extinguished, and pray for rain. Pray that the fire fighters will be safe.
Please continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who need assistance due to the hurricane. Pray for those in the Philippines who need help after the storms as well.
Continue to pray that the measles outbreak in Samoa will end. Pray that the Ebola outbreak will end in Congo.
Pray for peace. Pray that peace will come to Syria, Afghanistan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those who live in North Korea and Mauritius. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will return to our study of II Peter, and I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will post the Animal Book Of The Year selection on Thursday. Have a Merry Christmas. May God bless you all. Amen.
For the last couple of weeks, we've been in a series of messages about II Peter. We will continue with that series once again next week. This week, I wanted to bring a message about the Christmas season and the First Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Over the last few weeks, I've been thinking about the idea of the spirit of Christmas. What are some of the themes of Christmas, and how can we carry these themes and ideas with us throughout the entire year.
I have decided that three of the most important things that we can think about during the holiday season are the ideas of love, joy and peace. To me, this signifies what Christmas is all about.
Let's start with peace. When the angels came to the shepherds and announced the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, they brought the message of peace on earth. One of the titles of the Messiah given to us in Isaiah 9:6 is the Prince of Peace.
Jesus came to this earth to bring peace into the troubled hearts of people. Those who place their trust in Jesus can know the peace that passes all understanding. Jesus told us that He was leaving us with His peace.
Jesus also brings peace to the earth in another way. However, so many of those in this world don't accept Jesus' gift of peace. There is so much war in this world that it is sickening. Jesus came to show the way to peace. He told us how to live in peace with one another by following His clear teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. If those of us who name Jesus as Lord would truly follow His teachings and commandments, it would go so far in helping this world know what peace is.
Another part of the spirit of Christmas is joy. The angels brought good news that was to bring great joy to all people. Joy comes to us because God is with us. Jesus is God who has come to us. We don't have to be alone. The Lord has come to be with and to guide us. We can be joyful knowing the He will never leave us, and He will never ever forsake us.
Let us keep the joy of Christmas going all year long. Let us find ways to bring happiness and joy to others. Let us keep the joy of the Lord in our lives by realizing that He is with us always.
Finally, the spirit of Christmas is about love. John 3:16 tells us that God loved the world and sent His only Son that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. Love is what truly brought Jesus to this earth on Christmas Day. Because He loved us, Jesus came to bring us life and to bring us hope. Through His example, we know how to live in this world. Through His death, He brought atonement and forgiveness of sins. Through His resurrection, Jesus defeated death. When He comes again, Jesus will restore all things and bring justice.
Let us keep the spirit of love alive all year. Let the love of the Lord Jesus fill your heart, and then spread the love of the Lord Jesus to everyone.
I hope that everyone has a wonderful Christmas this year. May God bless you all. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
This has been one of the best weeks I've had in my writing, and I am very thankful to the Lord for providing a lot of work. I've been feeling pretty well, and I thank the Lord for this.
In prayer this week, please pray for Australia. The fires in that country are terrible. There is a great need for rain. Please pray that these fires will be extinguished, and pray for rain. Pray that the fire fighters will be safe.
Please continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who need assistance due to the hurricane. Pray for those in the Philippines who need help after the storms as well.
Continue to pray that the measles outbreak in Samoa will end. Pray that the Ebola outbreak will end in Congo.
Pray for peace. Pray that peace will come to Syria, Afghanistan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those who live in North Korea and Mauritius. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will return to our study of II Peter, and I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will post the Animal Book Of The Year selection on Thursday. Have a Merry Christmas. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Cat Book Of The Year
Last week, the Dog Book Of The Year was revealed. This week, I will reveal my pick for the best cat book. For 2019, my Cat Book Of The Year Award goes to "Cat Chase The Moon" by Shirley Rousseau Murphy. If you've read the blog over the years, it should come as no surprise that this would be the winner. I love the Joe Grey mystery series. There are now over 20 novels in the series, and I certainly hope that there will be more.
In this book, the kittens are a part of the mystery right along with Joe, Dulcie, Kit and Pan. All of the main human characters are back, and there is a great mystery to solve.
If you've not read any of the Joe Grey books, I encourage you to start at the beginning and read all of them. You won't be disappointed.
In this book, the kittens are a part of the mystery right along with Joe, Dulcie, Kit and Pan. All of the main human characters are back, and there is a great mystery to solve.
If you've not read any of the Joe Grey books, I encourage you to start at the beginning and read all of them. You won't be disappointed.
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Verses For The Week
I was able to get out to the library today. We had a bad winter storm where I live. The roads are still not very good. Here are the verses.
Psalm 73:26 -- "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
II Thessalonians 3:3 -- "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one."
Psalm 73:26 -- "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
II Thessalonians 3:3 -- "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one."
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- II Peter 1:2-4
Thank you for taking the time to read the Weekend Sermon. I am grateful to the Lord for the opportunity to post this message. I hope that all of you are having a good week and a good holiday season so far.
Today, we will continue with our study in the book of II Peter. Next week, I will post a message about Christmas. We will then get back to our current study.
There are four phrases in our passage today that I would like us to examine. The first one is found in verse three and states, "His divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness."
The first thing that strikes me about this is that all that we have comes from the hand of the Lord. Every blessing that we've been given comes from Him. He has given what pertains to life. To me that means that the Lord has provided for our needs such as food, clothing. companionship etc. We should thank the Lord for the good things that He has brought into our lives.
The second part of this phrase says that we've been given what pertains to godliness. The Lord has provided us with what we need to live for Him in this world. He has provided us with salvation. The Lord Jesus came and lived a holy life as our perfect example. He died on the cross to save us from our sins. He rose from the dead conquering death. He will come again in power and great glory.
The Lord has also provided us with the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a holy life. The Spirit convicts us of sin, and the Spirit draws us closer to the Lord Jesus.
We have been given the Word of the Lord in the Bible. In the pages of Scripture we have the words of Jesus to guide the actions of our lives.
We have what we need from the hand of the Lord for our physical and spiritual lives.
Verse 4 of our passage tells that we have been given great and precious promises. I've been thinking about what some of these promises are. First of all, the Lord Jesus promised that whoever would come to Him, He would not cast them out. He also told us that He has gone to prepare a place for us so that wherever He is, that is where we will be too. Jesus also told us that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. These are just a very few of the great and precious promises that we have been given by the Lord Jesus. We know that we can trust in His promises because Hebrews 13:8 tells us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.
This is the second time that Peter has used the word precious to describe the things of the Lord. How precious are the things of the Lord in our lives? This is something else that I've been thinking about. There should be nothing in our lives that means more to us than our relationship with the Lord. It is amazing that the God of all the universe loves us and cares about us. We should value our relationship with the Lord as the greatest thing in all the world.
Verse 4 goes on to tell us that we have been made partakers of the divine nature. I don't think that Peter is saying that we are going to become God in some kind of way. What he is saying is that because of what Jesus has done, we have been delivered from sin. As the Bible says, we have become a new creation in Christ Jesus. We have received the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ.
When we are in Christ, we grow in the grace and the knowledge of the Lord each and every day as we are led by the Spirit. We become more and more like the Lord Jesus. We put on the mind of Christ and act the way that He did in the world. He lives His life in and through us.
The final phrase that I want to focus on today is the phrase that states that we have escaped the corruption of the world. This world and its systems are corrupt and sinful. When we look at all of the truly evil things that are in this world, we know what corruption is. Through Jesus Christ, we have escaped the evil of this world because this world is no longer our home. We are looking for a heavenly city whose builder and maker is God. We are no longer part of the value system of greed and lust that is this world. We follow the path of love and righteousness set forth by our Lord Jesus. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This was a very good week in writing, and I want to the thank the Lord for His blessings. I would ask that you pray for me in a couple of matters. I've not been feeling well all week. Please pray that I will get to feeling better. Also, there is supposed to be a bad winter storm coming. Please pray that it won't get too bad. Thank you.
Please pray for those who were hurt when the volcano exploded in New Zealand. Some are burned very badly. Pray that they will recover quickly.
Pray that the terrible fires in Australia and in the Amazon will be extinguished. Pray for those working to contain these blazes.
Let us continue to pray for those suffering as a result of the measles outbreak in Samoa. Pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo.
Remember to pray for peace. Pray for peace in Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and Libya. Wherever you know of strife and conflict, pray for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the United Arab Emirates and those in Algeria. Pray that many will come to know Jesus.
Next week, I will post a message about Christmas for the weekend sermon. I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will try to post the verses. If the library is not available because of weather, the verses will be delayed. I will post the Cat Book Of the Year on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Today, we will continue with our study in the book of II Peter. Next week, I will post a message about Christmas. We will then get back to our current study.
There are four phrases in our passage today that I would like us to examine. The first one is found in verse three and states, "His divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness."
The first thing that strikes me about this is that all that we have comes from the hand of the Lord. Every blessing that we've been given comes from Him. He has given what pertains to life. To me that means that the Lord has provided for our needs such as food, clothing. companionship etc. We should thank the Lord for the good things that He has brought into our lives.
The second part of this phrase says that we've been given what pertains to godliness. The Lord has provided us with what we need to live for Him in this world. He has provided us with salvation. The Lord Jesus came and lived a holy life as our perfect example. He died on the cross to save us from our sins. He rose from the dead conquering death. He will come again in power and great glory.
The Lord has also provided us with the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a holy life. The Spirit convicts us of sin, and the Spirit draws us closer to the Lord Jesus.
We have been given the Word of the Lord in the Bible. In the pages of Scripture we have the words of Jesus to guide the actions of our lives.
We have what we need from the hand of the Lord for our physical and spiritual lives.
Verse 4 of our passage tells that we have been given great and precious promises. I've been thinking about what some of these promises are. First of all, the Lord Jesus promised that whoever would come to Him, He would not cast them out. He also told us that He has gone to prepare a place for us so that wherever He is, that is where we will be too. Jesus also told us that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. These are just a very few of the great and precious promises that we have been given by the Lord Jesus. We know that we can trust in His promises because Hebrews 13:8 tells us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.
This is the second time that Peter has used the word precious to describe the things of the Lord. How precious are the things of the Lord in our lives? This is something else that I've been thinking about. There should be nothing in our lives that means more to us than our relationship with the Lord. It is amazing that the God of all the universe loves us and cares about us. We should value our relationship with the Lord as the greatest thing in all the world.
Verse 4 goes on to tell us that we have been made partakers of the divine nature. I don't think that Peter is saying that we are going to become God in some kind of way. What he is saying is that because of what Jesus has done, we have been delivered from sin. As the Bible says, we have become a new creation in Christ Jesus. We have received the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ.
When we are in Christ, we grow in the grace and the knowledge of the Lord each and every day as we are led by the Spirit. We become more and more like the Lord Jesus. We put on the mind of Christ and act the way that He did in the world. He lives His life in and through us.
The final phrase that I want to focus on today is the phrase that states that we have escaped the corruption of the world. This world and its systems are corrupt and sinful. When we look at all of the truly evil things that are in this world, we know what corruption is. Through Jesus Christ, we have escaped the evil of this world because this world is no longer our home. We are looking for a heavenly city whose builder and maker is God. We are no longer part of the value system of greed and lust that is this world. We follow the path of love and righteousness set forth by our Lord Jesus. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This was a very good week in writing, and I want to the thank the Lord for His blessings. I would ask that you pray for me in a couple of matters. I've not been feeling well all week. Please pray that I will get to feeling better. Also, there is supposed to be a bad winter storm coming. Please pray that it won't get too bad. Thank you.
Please pray for those who were hurt when the volcano exploded in New Zealand. Some are burned very badly. Pray that they will recover quickly.
Pray that the terrible fires in Australia and in the Amazon will be extinguished. Pray for those working to contain these blazes.
Let us continue to pray for those suffering as a result of the measles outbreak in Samoa. Pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo.
Remember to pray for peace. Pray for peace in Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and Libya. Wherever you know of strife and conflict, pray for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the United Arab Emirates and those in Algeria. Pray that many will come to know Jesus.
Next week, I will post a message about Christmas for the weekend sermon. I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will try to post the verses. If the library is not available because of weather, the verses will be delayed. I will post the Cat Book Of the Year on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, December 11, 2019
Dog Book Of The Year
It's that time of year again. Each year about this time, I like to announce the winners of the dog, cat and animal book of the year. Each week, I try to do a book review. I know that this year I didn't do as many reviews as I usually do. At the end of the year the winners are chosen from among the books I reviewed during that year. This week, we will have the dog book of the year award. Next week we will reveal the cat book of the year, and the following week we will have the animal book of the year.
This year, my dog book of the year award goes to "Fabulous Finn" by Dave Wardell. Dave Wardell was a policeman working in England. Finn was his police dog. One night, they were after a suspect. The main pulled a knife and stabbed Finn. Finn kept after the man, and he saved Dave from being injured.
This is a great book that tells about Finn's recovery, but it also tells us about the effort made by Dave Wardell and others to change the laws regarding the penalties that criminals receive when they harm a police or service dog.
I highly recommend "Fabulous Finn". It is the best dog book I read this year.
This year, my dog book of the year award goes to "Fabulous Finn" by Dave Wardell. Dave Wardell was a policeman working in England. Finn was his police dog. One night, they were after a suspect. The main pulled a knife and stabbed Finn. Finn kept after the man, and he saved Dave from being injured.
This is a great book that tells about Finn's recovery, but it also tells us about the effort made by Dave Wardell and others to change the laws regarding the penalties that criminals receive when they harm a police or service dog.
I highly recommend "Fabulous Finn". It is the best dog book I read this year.
Monday, December 9, 2019
Verses For The Week
John 12:48 -- "He who rejects me and does not receive my sayings, has one who judges him, the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day."
I Thessalonians 4:16 -- "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first."
I Thessalonians 4:16 -- "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first."
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- II Peter -- Introduction
Welcome to this week's edition of the Weekend Sermon. As always, I am thankful that the Lord has provided me with the opportunity to post the message this week. I hope and pray that everyone is having a good week.
Today, we are starting a new series of messages on the book of II Peter. If you've been reading the blog for a time, you will remember that we went through the book of I Peter a few years ago. My plan is to study II Peter for the next couple of weeks. I will then post a couple of messages for the Christmas season, and then we will resume our study of II Peter. In this first message of the series, I want to give a little background into the book of II Peter, and then we will see what the first verse has to teach us.
There is some debate about who actually wrote II Peter. Some believe that the Apostle Peter was not the author. In order to support this theory, scholars will point to the fact that there are major stylist ic differences between I and II Peter. They will also point to the fact that the author of II Peter refers to the writings and teachings of the Apostle Paul in chapter 3 verse 15. They believe that Peter would not have had the opportunity to have read the letters of Paul, and would not be familiar with their content. Some scholars point out that II Peter and Jude are very similar. In fact much of chapter 2 of II Peter is identical with portions of Jude. Jude is controversial because it makes use of extra Biblical sources such as the Book of Enoch and The Assumption of Moses. The scholars who doubt the authorship and canonicity of Jude also doubt the authorship and canonicity of II Peter.
Another group believes that the Apostle Peter is most certainly the author of II Peter. This is my belief. The author identifies himself as the apostle. Furthermore, as we will see, the author states that he was with Jesus during the event of the Transfiguration. This is recorded in II Peter 1:16-18. We know that Peter, James and John went with Jesus up on the mountain. They saw Moses and Elijah visit with Jesus, and they heard the words spoken to Jesus by the Father.
Now, when was this epistle written. It appears from I Peter 1:14 that the epistle was written shortly before Peter was put to death. He references in the verse that he is about to put aside the tent of his body. Church tradition holds that Peter was crucified during the reign of Nero.
We have seen who wrote II Peter and approximately when it was written, but what is the epistle about? There are several important themes in II Peter, and we will find out about them more in depth as we study the book. The first chapter of II Peter deals with making sure of one's salvation. It also tells us about the importance of the word of the Lord. In the second chapter, Peter deals with false teachers and false teachings in the church. The final chapter speaks about the fact that Jesus is coming soon. Peter encourages believers to look for the coming of the Lord and the creation of a new heaven and a new earth.
Now that we know a little bit about what II Peter is all about, I want us to look at the first verse of the book. II Peter 1:1 states, "Simon Peter, a bond servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ."
This first verse relates to us how Peter thought of himself. He regarded himself as first and foremost the servant of Jesus Christ. From the day that Jesus called Peter to become a fisher of men on the Sea of Galilee, Peter followed Jesus. He proclaimed the word of the Lord boldly on the Day of Pentecost, and he would preach the words of Jesus faithfully to both Jew and Gentile. Our lives are to be devoted to following the words and the teachings of the Lord Jesus. If we acknowledge Jesus as Lord, we are to be His true servants. Servants do what the master asks without question.
Peter states that he is writing to those who had the same precious faith that he had. This is an important phrase, "precious faith". Our faith and trust in Jesus is the most precious thing that we have in all of the universe. We have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Nothing on this earth can compare to knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord. As Jesus told us in one of His teachings, it is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man goes and sells all he has so that he can buy the field with the great treasure. It is like a pearl of great price. Jesus would also say, "What does it profit a man if should gain the whole world but lose his own soul."
Our salvation is precious. The Lord of glory came down as a human. He suffered and lived among us to show us the way. He bore our sins. He did all of this for us that we might be redeemed and have an eternal relationship with Him.
Peter states that we have been saved by the righteousness of Jesus Christ. When we confess our sins and turn to the Lord Jesus, He takes away our sins. They are removed from us as far as the east is from the west. In place of our sin, we receive his righteousness. As it states in II Corinthians 5:21, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
Finally, in this first verse, Peter acknowledges that Jesus is both God and Savior. Jesus is the divine Son of God and God the Son. He is the only one who can save us from our sins. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
This was a very good week in my writing work, and I would like to thank the Lord for this. I would ask that you please pray that I will feel better. I've been a little under the weather this week.
In prayer this week, please be in prayer regarding the measles outbreak around the world. Samoa and Congo are having real problems with this. Pray that those who are sick will recover soon. Also please pray for an end to the Ebola problem in Congo.
The Philippines had a typhoon hit that country earlier this week. Pray that those who need aid will receive the aid that they need. Pray for those in the Bahamas who still have so many needs.
Continue to pray for an end to the terrible fires in Australia. Also, pray for an end to the fires in the Amazon and California.
Pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Ukraine need our prayers.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Indonesia and Mongolia. Pray that many will hear of the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our series in II Peter. I will post the verses on Monday. On Wednesday, we will begin our annual reveal of the best dog, cat and animal books of the year. May God bless you all. Amen.
Today, we are starting a new series of messages on the book of II Peter. If you've been reading the blog for a time, you will remember that we went through the book of I Peter a few years ago. My plan is to study II Peter for the next couple of weeks. I will then post a couple of messages for the Christmas season, and then we will resume our study of II Peter. In this first message of the series, I want to give a little background into the book of II Peter, and then we will see what the first verse has to teach us.
There is some debate about who actually wrote II Peter. Some believe that the Apostle Peter was not the author. In order to support this theory, scholars will point to the fact that there are major stylist ic differences between I and II Peter. They will also point to the fact that the author of II Peter refers to the writings and teachings of the Apostle Paul in chapter 3 verse 15. They believe that Peter would not have had the opportunity to have read the letters of Paul, and would not be familiar with their content. Some scholars point out that II Peter and Jude are very similar. In fact much of chapter 2 of II Peter is identical with portions of Jude. Jude is controversial because it makes use of extra Biblical sources such as the Book of Enoch and The Assumption of Moses. The scholars who doubt the authorship and canonicity of Jude also doubt the authorship and canonicity of II Peter.
Another group believes that the Apostle Peter is most certainly the author of II Peter. This is my belief. The author identifies himself as the apostle. Furthermore, as we will see, the author states that he was with Jesus during the event of the Transfiguration. This is recorded in II Peter 1:16-18. We know that Peter, James and John went with Jesus up on the mountain. They saw Moses and Elijah visit with Jesus, and they heard the words spoken to Jesus by the Father.
Now, when was this epistle written. It appears from I Peter 1:14 that the epistle was written shortly before Peter was put to death. He references in the verse that he is about to put aside the tent of his body. Church tradition holds that Peter was crucified during the reign of Nero.
We have seen who wrote II Peter and approximately when it was written, but what is the epistle about? There are several important themes in II Peter, and we will find out about them more in depth as we study the book. The first chapter of II Peter deals with making sure of one's salvation. It also tells us about the importance of the word of the Lord. In the second chapter, Peter deals with false teachers and false teachings in the church. The final chapter speaks about the fact that Jesus is coming soon. Peter encourages believers to look for the coming of the Lord and the creation of a new heaven and a new earth.
Now that we know a little bit about what II Peter is all about, I want us to look at the first verse of the book. II Peter 1:1 states, "Simon Peter, a bond servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ."
This first verse relates to us how Peter thought of himself. He regarded himself as first and foremost the servant of Jesus Christ. From the day that Jesus called Peter to become a fisher of men on the Sea of Galilee, Peter followed Jesus. He proclaimed the word of the Lord boldly on the Day of Pentecost, and he would preach the words of Jesus faithfully to both Jew and Gentile. Our lives are to be devoted to following the words and the teachings of the Lord Jesus. If we acknowledge Jesus as Lord, we are to be His true servants. Servants do what the master asks without question.
Peter states that he is writing to those who had the same precious faith that he had. This is an important phrase, "precious faith". Our faith and trust in Jesus is the most precious thing that we have in all of the universe. We have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Nothing on this earth can compare to knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord. As Jesus told us in one of His teachings, it is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man goes and sells all he has so that he can buy the field with the great treasure. It is like a pearl of great price. Jesus would also say, "What does it profit a man if should gain the whole world but lose his own soul."
Our salvation is precious. The Lord of glory came down as a human. He suffered and lived among us to show us the way. He bore our sins. He did all of this for us that we might be redeemed and have an eternal relationship with Him.
Peter states that we have been saved by the righteousness of Jesus Christ. When we confess our sins and turn to the Lord Jesus, He takes away our sins. They are removed from us as far as the east is from the west. In place of our sin, we receive his righteousness. As it states in II Corinthians 5:21, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
Finally, in this first verse, Peter acknowledges that Jesus is both God and Savior. Jesus is the divine Son of God and God the Son. He is the only one who can save us from our sins. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
This was a very good week in my writing work, and I would like to thank the Lord for this. I would ask that you please pray that I will feel better. I've been a little under the weather this week.
In prayer this week, please be in prayer regarding the measles outbreak around the world. Samoa and Congo are having real problems with this. Pray that those who are sick will recover soon. Also please pray for an end to the Ebola problem in Congo.
The Philippines had a typhoon hit that country earlier this week. Pray that those who need aid will receive the aid that they need. Pray for those in the Bahamas who still have so many needs.
Continue to pray for an end to the terrible fires in Australia. Also, pray for an end to the fires in the Amazon and California.
Pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Ukraine need our prayers.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Indonesia and Mongolia. Pray that many will hear of the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our series in II Peter. I will post the verses on Monday. On Wednesday, we will begin our annual reveal of the best dog, cat and animal books of the year. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Book Review -- "The Little Book Of Bob"
The book that I would like to review today is "The Little Book of Bob" by James Bowen. Those who read the blog on a regular basis will know that I've reviewed several of the books about James and Bob including, "A Streetcat Named Bob", "The World According to Bob", and "A Gift From Bob". I've recommended all of them, and I recommend this new book as well.
For those of you who don't know the story, James was trying to beat his addiction to drugs. He'd been homeless off and on for years, but he was living in subsidized housing. In order to make a living, he was playing his guitar on the streets.
One night, James found an injured cat. Bob entered James' life, and he was an important reason that James was able to get off drugs and start improving his life.
In this new book, James tells a few of the lessons that he's learned about life from Bob in the years that they've now been together. There are small sections throughout the book that give a life lesson learned from Bob such as "Don't let a bad yesterday spoil a good today" and "We all need something to believe in".
This is a small book, but it is worth reading. I hope that James and Bob keep going strong together for many years to come.
For those of you who don't know the story, James was trying to beat his addiction to drugs. He'd been homeless off and on for years, but he was living in subsidized housing. In order to make a living, he was playing his guitar on the streets.
One night, James found an injured cat. Bob entered James' life, and he was an important reason that James was able to get off drugs and start improving his life.
In this new book, James tells a few of the lessons that he's learned about life from Bob in the years that they've now been together. There are small sections throughout the book that give a life lesson learned from Bob such as "Don't let a bad yesterday spoil a good today" and "We all need something to believe in".
This is a small book, but it is worth reading. I hope that James and Bob keep going strong together for many years to come.
Monday, December 2, 2019
Verses For The Week
Proverbs 17:17 -- " A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for times of adversity."
Galatians 6:2 -- " Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."
John 15:12 -- "Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Galatians 6:2 -- " Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."
John 15:12 -- "Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- Thankfulness
Thank you for taking the time to read this week's edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope that everyone had a good Thanksgiving Day celebration here in the US. I thank the Lord for the opportunity to present this message today.
Last week, we finished a series of messages on what the Bible has to say about social justice. Today, I am going to give a few thoughts on thanksgiving and thankfulness since it is the Thanksgiving Day holiday weekend here in my country. Starting next week, I will begin a series of messages going through the book of II Peter. We will have a couple of messages for the Advent season as well.
The Bible tells us in many different places that we are to give thanks to the Lord for all of the wonderful things that He has done. We are to thank Him for the fact that He has loved us and provided for our needs. Here are just a few Bible verses about being thankful.
Colossians 3:17 -- "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Psalm 100:4 -- "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise, give thanks to Him and praise His name."
Psalm 107:8-9 -- "Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind, for He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
I Chronicles 16:34 -- "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever."
These are just a few of the many verses in the Bible that tells us to give thanks to the Lord for all that He has done for us. Since this is the time of year for giving thanks, I just want to share some of what I am thankful for.
I am thankful for my parents. They were wonderful people who helped me in so many ways. I am thankful for my friend Toby who was the best friend anyone can ever hope to know. I want to give thanks to the Lord for allowing me to be able to read and write, and I'm thankful that the Lord has allowed me to be a writer. I thank the Lord for giving me the chance to go to college and seminary. I thank the Lord for a country that allows me the freedom to worship and travel around as I would like. I am also thankful for my food, home and transportation.
I hope that during this thanksgiving season that you will take some time to think about what you are thankful for. Tell the Lord that you are thankful for all that He has done for you.
Above all things, we need to be thankful that we have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. II Corinthians 9:15 says, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift." The Father has sent His Son into the world that we might be forgiven of our sins. Jesus has saved us. Because of what Jesus has done, we no longer need to fear death. We know that if we are in Christ, we will be with Jesus forever in the place that He has prepared. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This week, there has been a lot of bad weather in my area. We had a high wind warning the other night, and the winds are supposed to be strong again today and tomorrow. Please pray that the winds will not be damaging. Also, please pray for all of those affected by the bad winter storms here in the US.
On Monday, I am starting a new part-time job. Please pray that that goes well.
In other matters, please continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who are recovering from the hurricane damage. Pray for all those around the world affected by storms. Pray that they will get the aid and help that they need.
Pray for those who are homeless. Pray that their needs will be met.
Let us all pray for peace in the world. Pray for peace in Afghanistan, Syria and Libya. There are also many places facing unrest. Pray for Bolivia, Iran, Iraq and Hong Kong.
Remember to pray for those facing the bad fires around the world. Pray that the fires will be extinguished in Australia, California and the Amazon.
Please pray for those in the Congo dealing with Ebola.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in India and Sudan. Pray that many will come to know the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will start our messages on II Peter, Lord willing. I will post the message on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will be posting a review of a cat book on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Last week, we finished a series of messages on what the Bible has to say about social justice. Today, I am going to give a few thoughts on thanksgiving and thankfulness since it is the Thanksgiving Day holiday weekend here in my country. Starting next week, I will begin a series of messages going through the book of II Peter. We will have a couple of messages for the Advent season as well.
The Bible tells us in many different places that we are to give thanks to the Lord for all of the wonderful things that He has done. We are to thank Him for the fact that He has loved us and provided for our needs. Here are just a few Bible verses about being thankful.
Colossians 3:17 -- "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Psalm 100:4 -- "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise, give thanks to Him and praise His name."
Psalm 107:8-9 -- "Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind, for He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
I Chronicles 16:34 -- "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever."
These are just a few of the many verses in the Bible that tells us to give thanks to the Lord for all that He has done for us. Since this is the time of year for giving thanks, I just want to share some of what I am thankful for.
I am thankful for my parents. They were wonderful people who helped me in so many ways. I am thankful for my friend Toby who was the best friend anyone can ever hope to know. I want to give thanks to the Lord for allowing me to be able to read and write, and I'm thankful that the Lord has allowed me to be a writer. I thank the Lord for giving me the chance to go to college and seminary. I thank the Lord for a country that allows me the freedom to worship and travel around as I would like. I am also thankful for my food, home and transportation.
I hope that during this thanksgiving season that you will take some time to think about what you are thankful for. Tell the Lord that you are thankful for all that He has done for you.
Above all things, we need to be thankful that we have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. II Corinthians 9:15 says, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift." The Father has sent His Son into the world that we might be forgiven of our sins. Jesus has saved us. Because of what Jesus has done, we no longer need to fear death. We know that if we are in Christ, we will be with Jesus forever in the place that He has prepared. Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This week, there has been a lot of bad weather in my area. We had a high wind warning the other night, and the winds are supposed to be strong again today and tomorrow. Please pray that the winds will not be damaging. Also, please pray for all of those affected by the bad winter storms here in the US.
On Monday, I am starting a new part-time job. Please pray that that goes well.
In other matters, please continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who are recovering from the hurricane damage. Pray for all those around the world affected by storms. Pray that they will get the aid and help that they need.
Pray for those who are homeless. Pray that their needs will be met.
Let us all pray for peace in the world. Pray for peace in Afghanistan, Syria and Libya. There are also many places facing unrest. Pray for Bolivia, Iran, Iraq and Hong Kong.
Remember to pray for those facing the bad fires around the world. Pray that the fires will be extinguished in Australia, California and the Amazon.
Please pray for those in the Congo dealing with Ebola.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in India and Sudan. Pray that many will come to know the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will start our messages on II Peter, Lord willing. I will post the message on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will be posting a review of a cat book on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Music Recommendations -- British And American Composers
Last week on the blog, I wrote about some of the Russian composers whose music I enjoy. Today, I want to recommend some of the works by American and British composers that I like. In my opinion, American classical music composers don't get as much recognition as they should.
When it comes to British composers, my two favorites are Ralph Vaughn Williams and Benjamin Britten. The Ralph Vaughn Williams pieces that I like the best are "The Lark Ascending", "Fantasia On a Theme of Thomas Tallis", "A Sea Symphony" and "A Pastoral Symphony". For Benjamin Britten, I enjoy listening to "Simple Symphony", 'War Requiem" and the "Piano Concerto".
There are a number of American composers whom I like. Here are the names and some of my favorites:
Samuel Barber -- Capricorn Concerto, Piano Concerto, Prayers of Kierkegaard.
Aaron Copeland -- Appalachian Spring
Leonard Bernstein -- Chichester Psalms. Symphony no. 1, Symphony no.3
Charles Ives -- Symphony no. 3, The Unanswered Question, Three Places In New England
Virgil Thomson -- Symphony no. 1
Walter Piston -- Flute Concerto
George Gershwin -- Rhapsody In Blue, An American In Paris
Next week, I will go back to reviewing books. I have a review of a cat book that I want to share with you. For readers in America. Happy Thanksgiving.
When it comes to British composers, my two favorites are Ralph Vaughn Williams and Benjamin Britten. The Ralph Vaughn Williams pieces that I like the best are "The Lark Ascending", "Fantasia On a Theme of Thomas Tallis", "A Sea Symphony" and "A Pastoral Symphony". For Benjamin Britten, I enjoy listening to "Simple Symphony", 'War Requiem" and the "Piano Concerto".
There are a number of American composers whom I like. Here are the names and some of my favorites:
Samuel Barber -- Capricorn Concerto, Piano Concerto, Prayers of Kierkegaard.
Aaron Copeland -- Appalachian Spring
Leonard Bernstein -- Chichester Psalms. Symphony no. 1, Symphony no.3
Charles Ives -- Symphony no. 3, The Unanswered Question, Three Places In New England
Virgil Thomson -- Symphony no. 1
Walter Piston -- Flute Concerto
George Gershwin -- Rhapsody In Blue, An American In Paris
Next week, I will go back to reviewing books. I have a review of a cat book that I want to share with you. For readers in America. Happy Thanksgiving.
Monday, November 25, 2019
Verses For The Week
Psalm 95:2-3 -- "Let us come before Him with thanksgiving, let us extol Him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods."
Colossians 4:2 -- "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."
Colossians 4:2 -- "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."
Saturday, November 23, 2019
The Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice -- Conclusion
Welcome to this edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope and pray that each of you is having a good day. As always, I thank the Lord for giving me the opportunity to post this message.
Today, we will conclude our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I want to say a few things about what the Bible has to say about peace and making peace.
War is a terrible thing. It brings with it death, devastation and heartache. Right now there are many areas of active conflict in the world. It seems as if war has been part of the human condition since humans existed. I live in the United States. Since the United States became an independent nation, it has been involved in numerous wars. Many nations have a history of almost constant warfare. What is the Christian's response and responsibility in all of this?
We've been studying what the Bible has to say about social justice. I've posted messages about helping the poor, standing up for the oppressed and caring about the world that the Lord has made. All of this is much harder to do if there is conflict in the world.
As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to work for peace in this world. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount that peacemakers are blessed. We are instructed in I Peter 3:11 to seek peace and to pursue it.
First of all we need to be those who seek to bring peace within the hearts of those who we know do not have a relationship with Jesus. Jesus is the one who came to bring peace to the hearts of those who would call upon Him as Savior and Lord. True and ultimate peace comes through knowing the Lord Jesus.
Christians are those who ask what Jesus did and what He would do in any given situation. Jesus was for peace, and we must follow His peaceful example. We need to work in the world to help bring a resolution to the conflicts of the world. This can take many different forms. One way that Christians can be peacemakers and work for peace is to stand against injustice. Violence and struggle in the world often comes when people feel as if they are being abused and discriminated against. Often, the oppressed will rise against the oppressor. Those who believe in Jesus need to stand with those who are marginalized and work for justice in the world. By helping to improve the lives of others, we can be those who promote the cause of peace.
Another way that we can be those who promote peace is to support those politically who seek peaceful and just solutions to the problems that face this world. It is important who we elect to office. Some world leaders seem bent towards violence and greed. This will not bring peace and harmony to the world.
I believe that the best way that we can promote peace in this world is to exalt the Lord Jesus who is the Prince of Peace. Throughout His life, He demonstrated the way of peace and non-violence. His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount have inspired Christians and those of other religions to make a difference for good and for peace in the world.
Often, people do not have peace within their own hearts. They are troubled and in turmoil. Jesus is the one who can bring peace to the troubled heart. Jesus loves you. He wants you to trust in Him and find peace that passes all understanding.
Now, I've written about ways that Christians can promote peace. What should Christians not be doing? Christians throughout history have often been some of those who were most involved in warfare. I've just finished watching some programs about Christians in the Middle Ages. Some of these people were engaged constantly in brutal wars with other Christians and those of other faiths. They were all killing each other in the name of God. This has no place in the life of a follower of Jesus. Jesus would in no way condone such behavior, and He taught the opposite.
Christians also must not be engaged in activities that promote discrimination and social injustice. These are things that bring violence. We must be those who speak for unity, inclusion , hope and justice.
One day, this world will know total peace that will have no end. One day, Jesus will come in power and great glory. He is the Prince of Peace whose reign will have no end. The Bible says that when Jesus returns, people will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer rise against nation. War will be studied no more. I look forward to that great and glorious day. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
I want to thank the Lord for providing me with a lot of writing work this week. I have been feeling well, and I thank the Lord for this.
I would ask that you pray for my uncle. He has been in the hospital with some heart problems.
In other prayer requests, please continue to pray for those who are dealing with fires. Australia is really suffering right now. California and the Amazon region also need our prayers.
Please continue to pray for those who are in the Bahamas. Many still need help as a result of the hurricane damage.
Continue to pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those working to help others in this nation.
Let us all continue to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Pray for peace in Syria, Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. There is also unrest in Bolivia, Hong Kong and Colombia. Please pray for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the nations of Guinea and Bhutan. Pray that people will hear the message of the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will have a message based on thanksgiving. It is the Thanksgiving Day holiday here in my country this week, and I hope everyone has a great day. After next week's sermon that I will post on Saturday, we will start a new series of messages on the book of II Peter. I will take one or two weeks for Advent messages. On Monday, I will post the verses, and I will have another music post on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Today, we will conclude our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I want to say a few things about what the Bible has to say about peace and making peace.
War is a terrible thing. It brings with it death, devastation and heartache. Right now there are many areas of active conflict in the world. It seems as if war has been part of the human condition since humans existed. I live in the United States. Since the United States became an independent nation, it has been involved in numerous wars. Many nations have a history of almost constant warfare. What is the Christian's response and responsibility in all of this?
We've been studying what the Bible has to say about social justice. I've posted messages about helping the poor, standing up for the oppressed and caring about the world that the Lord has made. All of this is much harder to do if there is conflict in the world.
As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to work for peace in this world. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount that peacemakers are blessed. We are instructed in I Peter 3:11 to seek peace and to pursue it.
First of all we need to be those who seek to bring peace within the hearts of those who we know do not have a relationship with Jesus. Jesus is the one who came to bring peace to the hearts of those who would call upon Him as Savior and Lord. True and ultimate peace comes through knowing the Lord Jesus.
Christians are those who ask what Jesus did and what He would do in any given situation. Jesus was for peace, and we must follow His peaceful example. We need to work in the world to help bring a resolution to the conflicts of the world. This can take many different forms. One way that Christians can be peacemakers and work for peace is to stand against injustice. Violence and struggle in the world often comes when people feel as if they are being abused and discriminated against. Often, the oppressed will rise against the oppressor. Those who believe in Jesus need to stand with those who are marginalized and work for justice in the world. By helping to improve the lives of others, we can be those who promote the cause of peace.
Another way that we can be those who promote peace is to support those politically who seek peaceful and just solutions to the problems that face this world. It is important who we elect to office. Some world leaders seem bent towards violence and greed. This will not bring peace and harmony to the world.
I believe that the best way that we can promote peace in this world is to exalt the Lord Jesus who is the Prince of Peace. Throughout His life, He demonstrated the way of peace and non-violence. His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount have inspired Christians and those of other religions to make a difference for good and for peace in the world.
Often, people do not have peace within their own hearts. They are troubled and in turmoil. Jesus is the one who can bring peace to the troubled heart. Jesus loves you. He wants you to trust in Him and find peace that passes all understanding.
Now, I've written about ways that Christians can promote peace. What should Christians not be doing? Christians throughout history have often been some of those who were most involved in warfare. I've just finished watching some programs about Christians in the Middle Ages. Some of these people were engaged constantly in brutal wars with other Christians and those of other faiths. They were all killing each other in the name of God. This has no place in the life of a follower of Jesus. Jesus would in no way condone such behavior, and He taught the opposite.
Christians also must not be engaged in activities that promote discrimination and social injustice. These are things that bring violence. We must be those who speak for unity, inclusion , hope and justice.
One day, this world will know total peace that will have no end. One day, Jesus will come in power and great glory. He is the Prince of Peace whose reign will have no end. The Bible says that when Jesus returns, people will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer rise against nation. War will be studied no more. I look forward to that great and glorious day. Amen.
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
I want to thank the Lord for providing me with a lot of writing work this week. I have been feeling well, and I thank the Lord for this.
I would ask that you pray for my uncle. He has been in the hospital with some heart problems.
In other prayer requests, please continue to pray for those who are dealing with fires. Australia is really suffering right now. California and the Amazon region also need our prayers.
Please continue to pray for those who are in the Bahamas. Many still need help as a result of the hurricane damage.
Continue to pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those working to help others in this nation.
Let us all continue to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Pray for peace in Syria, Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. There is also unrest in Bolivia, Hong Kong and Colombia. Please pray for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the nations of Guinea and Bhutan. Pray that people will hear the message of the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will have a message based on thanksgiving. It is the Thanksgiving Day holiday here in my country this week, and I hope everyone has a great day. After next week's sermon that I will post on Saturday, we will start a new series of messages on the book of II Peter. I will take one or two weeks for Advent messages. On Monday, I will post the verses, and I will have another music post on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Music Recommendations -- Russian Composers
I am right in the midst of reading some books that I will review in the coming weeks. For the next two week's reviews, I would like to provide a few music recommendations of some of the music that I like to listen to.
I am a big fan of classical music. When my friend Toby lived with me, we used to listen to classical music every day. His favorites were Allegri and Vivaldi. My favorite classical music composers are Russian composers. Their music is filled with emotion and passion.
My favorite of the Russian composers is Sergei Rachmaninoff. I would recommend his Symphony no. 2 in E minor, all of his piano concertos and Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.
Rimsky-Korsakov is another of my favorites. I always enjoy listening to Scheherazade, Capriccio Espagnol, the Russian Easter Festival Overture.
Tchaikovsky has written so many great pieces of music. My favorites are Symphonies 4 and 6, Swan Lake and Capriccio Italien.
There are a number of other Russian composers whose work I enjoy. I will list a few with the one composition of theirs that I like the best.
Igor Stravinsky -- Rite of Spring
Modest Mussorgsky -- Pictures at an Exhibition
Vasily Kalinnikov -- Symphony no 1
Dmitri Shostakovich -- Symphony no. 5
Sergei Prokofiev -- Piano Concerto no. 3
Alexander Borodin -- In the Steppes Of Central Asia
Reinhold Gliere -- The Red Poppy
These are just a few of the many outstanding pieces by these Russian composers. If you've never listened to much classical music, give these composers a try. I am sure that you will enjoy their music.
I am a big fan of classical music. When my friend Toby lived with me, we used to listen to classical music every day. His favorites were Allegri and Vivaldi. My favorite classical music composers are Russian composers. Their music is filled with emotion and passion.
My favorite of the Russian composers is Sergei Rachmaninoff. I would recommend his Symphony no. 2 in E minor, all of his piano concertos and Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.
Rimsky-Korsakov is another of my favorites. I always enjoy listening to Scheherazade, Capriccio Espagnol, the Russian Easter Festival Overture.
Tchaikovsky has written so many great pieces of music. My favorites are Symphonies 4 and 6, Swan Lake and Capriccio Italien.
There are a number of other Russian composers whose work I enjoy. I will list a few with the one composition of theirs that I like the best.
Igor Stravinsky -- Rite of Spring
Modest Mussorgsky -- Pictures at an Exhibition
Vasily Kalinnikov -- Symphony no 1
Dmitri Shostakovich -- Symphony no. 5
Sergei Prokofiev -- Piano Concerto no. 3
Alexander Borodin -- In the Steppes Of Central Asia
Reinhold Gliere -- The Red Poppy
These are just a few of the many outstanding pieces by these Russian composers. If you've never listened to much classical music, give these composers a try. I am sure that you will enjoy their music.
Monday, November 18, 2019
Verses For The Week
II Chronicles 15:7 -- "But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."
Galatians 6:9 -- "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Galatians 6:9 -- "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Saturday, November 16, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice -- Part 5
Welcome to the Weekend Sermon. I hope that you have all had a very good week so far. As always, I would like to thank the Lord for the opportunity He has given me to post the sermon this week.
In today's message, I want to continue with our series on the Bible and Social Justice. In today's sermon, I want us to look at what the Bible has to say about taking care of the earth that God has created. What is humanity's responsibility?
Without a doubt, we are living in a time that is bringing significant climate change. Scientists are almost universally agreed that global climate change is occurring. Scientists have pointed out that changes in the climate have already led to more significant rainfall and storm events. Other significant impacts are predicted for the future. These impacts will disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations on the planet.
In addition to this problem, we are seeing what some scientists are calling a new mass extinction. Multiple animals are becoming extinct. The bird and insect populations are on the decline. This has been proven in a number of different studies. The bee population is being decimated by pesticides used by humans in agriculture.
Because of the impacts that these environmental problems have on the poor and others, this is a social justice matter. The Bible is clear on what humans' duties are to the earth and to the creation in general.
Genesis 2:15 tells us what people are to do in regard to taking care of the world that the Lord has made. People were commanded by the Lord to take care of the world. Humans are in charge of the world in order to be good stewards of what God has made. According to Deuteronomy 10:14, the earth and everything that is in it belongs to the Lord. This earth and the animals in it do not belong to us. We are to take care of these things for the Lord. If we don't do it properly, we will be held responsible.
Some hold to the mistaken belief that this earth and the animals in it where made for humans. We see that exact opposite of this idea in Colossians 1:16 which states, "For in Him all things were created: things in heaven, and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him." In other words, Jesus is the creator and ruler of all, and everything was made for Him and belongs to Him.
Leviticus 25:1-7 tells us that God expects us to take care of the land in a proper manner. One way that this is done is by not running the land into ruin by overuse. Every seventh year, the land and the fruit trees were not to planted or harvested. They were to be given rest. Every seventh day, people were supposed to rest, and animals were supposed to be allowed to rest too.
The Lord cares about all that He has created. He cares about people, and He cares about animals and the plants. Jesus said in Matthew 6 that the Father makes sure that the birds of the air have food to eat.
As those who are followers of the Lord, we have the responsibility to work to make this world a better place. We need to be advocates for those policies that will help to reduce pollution of the air and the water. We need to be at the forefront of those calling for an end to habitat destruction and the decimation of animals.
The Lord has called us to take care of what He has made. Part of that means that each of us must find ways to waste less and conserve more. Recycling is a start. We can also find ways to pollute less and reduce our contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.
If those who follow the Lord would take seriously the command of the Lord to take care of what He has made, I believe that we could see a change in the course that the world is taking. This would help others to have a decent life for the honor and glory of God. Amen.
Prayer requests and other matters.
This week I had a lot of writing to do, and I thank the Lord for that. I am having some issues with my car, and I would ask that you would please pray that I will have the wisdom from the Lord to know what to do about this matter.
In other prayer matters, I would like you to pray for my uncle. He is in the hospital right now. Please pray that he will get well soon.
Please continue to pray for peace in the world. Afghanistan, Syria, Libya and Somalia need peace and need our prayers. There is also a lot of strife and conflict in some areas of the world. There continues to be unrest in Hong Kong, Bolivia and in Venezuela. Pray of peace and justice in this world.
Let us continue to pray for those who are still dealing with storm damage. I heard hat there is still a great deal of need in the Bahamas.
Please pray for those in the Congo dealing with the Ebola outbreak. Pray that this will end.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray of those who live in Western Sahara and Azerbaijan. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, I will post the final message in our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I will post the sermon on Saturday. I will be posting the verses on Monday, and I will try to get a review posted on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
In today's message, I want to continue with our series on the Bible and Social Justice. In today's sermon, I want us to look at what the Bible has to say about taking care of the earth that God has created. What is humanity's responsibility?
Without a doubt, we are living in a time that is bringing significant climate change. Scientists are almost universally agreed that global climate change is occurring. Scientists have pointed out that changes in the climate have already led to more significant rainfall and storm events. Other significant impacts are predicted for the future. These impacts will disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations on the planet.
In addition to this problem, we are seeing what some scientists are calling a new mass extinction. Multiple animals are becoming extinct. The bird and insect populations are on the decline. This has been proven in a number of different studies. The bee population is being decimated by pesticides used by humans in agriculture.
Because of the impacts that these environmental problems have on the poor and others, this is a social justice matter. The Bible is clear on what humans' duties are to the earth and to the creation in general.
Genesis 2:15 tells us what people are to do in regard to taking care of the world that the Lord has made. People were commanded by the Lord to take care of the world. Humans are in charge of the world in order to be good stewards of what God has made. According to Deuteronomy 10:14, the earth and everything that is in it belongs to the Lord. This earth and the animals in it do not belong to us. We are to take care of these things for the Lord. If we don't do it properly, we will be held responsible.
Some hold to the mistaken belief that this earth and the animals in it where made for humans. We see that exact opposite of this idea in Colossians 1:16 which states, "For in Him all things were created: things in heaven, and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him." In other words, Jesus is the creator and ruler of all, and everything was made for Him and belongs to Him.
Leviticus 25:1-7 tells us that God expects us to take care of the land in a proper manner. One way that this is done is by not running the land into ruin by overuse. Every seventh year, the land and the fruit trees were not to planted or harvested. They were to be given rest. Every seventh day, people were supposed to rest, and animals were supposed to be allowed to rest too.
The Lord cares about all that He has created. He cares about people, and He cares about animals and the plants. Jesus said in Matthew 6 that the Father makes sure that the birds of the air have food to eat.
As those who are followers of the Lord, we have the responsibility to work to make this world a better place. We need to be advocates for those policies that will help to reduce pollution of the air and the water. We need to be at the forefront of those calling for an end to habitat destruction and the decimation of animals.
The Lord has called us to take care of what He has made. Part of that means that each of us must find ways to waste less and conserve more. Recycling is a start. We can also find ways to pollute less and reduce our contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.
If those who follow the Lord would take seriously the command of the Lord to take care of what He has made, I believe that we could see a change in the course that the world is taking. This would help others to have a decent life for the honor and glory of God. Amen.
Prayer requests and other matters.
This week I had a lot of writing to do, and I thank the Lord for that. I am having some issues with my car, and I would ask that you would please pray that I will have the wisdom from the Lord to know what to do about this matter.
In other prayer matters, I would like you to pray for my uncle. He is in the hospital right now. Please pray that he will get well soon.
Please continue to pray for peace in the world. Afghanistan, Syria, Libya and Somalia need peace and need our prayers. There is also a lot of strife and conflict in some areas of the world. There continues to be unrest in Hong Kong, Bolivia and in Venezuela. Pray of peace and justice in this world.
Let us continue to pray for those who are still dealing with storm damage. I heard hat there is still a great deal of need in the Bahamas.
Please pray for those in the Congo dealing with the Ebola outbreak. Pray that this will end.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray of those who live in Western Sahara and Azerbaijan. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, I will post the final message in our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I will post the sermon on Saturday. I will be posting the verses on Monday, and I will try to get a review posted on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
Book Review -- "The Rise Of Wolf 8"
Today, I get the privilege of reviewing one of the best nature books I've read in a very long time. The book is called "The Rise Of Wolf 8: Witnessing the Triumph of Yellowstone's Underdog" and the author's name is Rick McIntyre.
Rick McIntyre has spent many years observing wolves and learning their ways. His writing shows a love for wolves and a desire to make sure that they are left free to enjoy their lives in their natural habitat.
This book deals with the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. One wolf in particular captured the author's attention. All of the wolves in the project are designated with a number. The wolf that caught the author's eye was dubbed wolf 8. He was the runt of the liter, but he would grow and become the leader of his own pack. He would become the adopted father of one of Yellowstone's most famous wolves called Wolf 21.
The portions of the book I enjoyed the most are the parts where the author would provide his interpretations of wolf actions. One of these times is when the author discusses why Wolf 21 did not attack and challenge Wolf 8 even though Wolf 8 was older and weaker at the time.
If you love animals, you will find the relationship between Wolf 8 and Wolf 21 a beautiful thing to read about. It clearly demonstrates that animals each have a special personality. They behave in different ways. It may not be a scientific thing to say, but this book really relates the feelings that wolves have for their lives and for those who are in their packs.
I really enjoyed reading this book. From what I understand, this is the first of a trilogy about the wolves of Yellowstone. I look forward to reading the other two books when they come out. This book was well-written and informative. Unlike some wildlife conservation books, this book was not dry in any way.
Rick McIntyre has spent many years observing wolves and learning their ways. His writing shows a love for wolves and a desire to make sure that they are left free to enjoy their lives in their natural habitat.
This book deals with the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. One wolf in particular captured the author's attention. All of the wolves in the project are designated with a number. The wolf that caught the author's eye was dubbed wolf 8. He was the runt of the liter, but he would grow and become the leader of his own pack. He would become the adopted father of one of Yellowstone's most famous wolves called Wolf 21.
The portions of the book I enjoyed the most are the parts where the author would provide his interpretations of wolf actions. One of these times is when the author discusses why Wolf 21 did not attack and challenge Wolf 8 even though Wolf 8 was older and weaker at the time.
If you love animals, you will find the relationship between Wolf 8 and Wolf 21 a beautiful thing to read about. It clearly demonstrates that animals each have a special personality. They behave in different ways. It may not be a scientific thing to say, but this book really relates the feelings that wolves have for their lives and for those who are in their packs.
I really enjoyed reading this book. From what I understand, this is the first of a trilogy about the wolves of Yellowstone. I look forward to reading the other two books when they come out. This book was well-written and informative. Unlike some wildlife conservation books, this book was not dry in any way.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Verses For The Week
I am sorry that the verses were delayed.
I John 4:15 -- "If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God."
John 15:12 -- "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."
I John 4:15 -- "If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God."
John 15:12 -- "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."
Saturday, November 9, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice -- Part 4
Welcome to this week's posting of the Weekend Sermon. I am so happy that you have taken the time to read the sermon this week, and I am thankful to the Lord for providing me with this opportunity.
Over the course of the last few weeks, we've been discussing the theme of the Bible and social justice. I want to continue with that this week and next two weeks. This week, I want us to focus on what the Bible says the government's responsibility is for those who are among its poor and vulnerable citizens. I know that some Christians believe that only private charity is supposed to be used to take care of the poor and those in need. The Bible doesn't really back that idea up. According to what the Scriptures say, it is the ruler's responsibility to make sure that the poor and the oppressed are taken care of.
The first passage of Scripture that relates to this that I would like us to look at is Psalm 72. This is a Psalm written by King Solomon. In this Psalm, Solomon will speak about some of the things that he wants to do as king, and he will speak about some areas that he needs help from the Lord in order to do what is right.
In Psalm 72:4 Solomon states, "May he defend the afflicted among the people, and save the children of the needy, may he crush the oppressor." Clearly, Solomon believes that a righteous ruler has the responsibility to make sure that the poor and needy are taken care of. Everyone in society is supposed to be looked after by the king.
In verses 12 and 13, Solomon says that following, "For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and needy, and save the needy from death."
I believe that it is quite clear from this Psalm that Solomon regards it as his God given responsible to help those in his kingdom who cannot help themselves. If he were not to do that, he would not be considered a righteous ruler in the eyes of the Lord.
Now let us look at what Isaiah has to say. In Isaiah chapter three, the prophet speaks about the Lord bringing judgment on the elders and the leaders of the land. The reason that God is angry with the leaders is because they have afflicted the poor instead of helping them, Verses 14 and 15 state, "The Lord enters into judgment against the elders and leaders of His people. It is you who have ruined my vineyard. the plunder from the poor is in your houses. What do you mean by crushing my people, and grinding the faces of the poor? declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty?"
From these verses, we learn that God does not want the leaders to treat the poor in the land in a bad way. They are not to make the lives of those who are poor harder. To do this will bring the judgment of the Lord.
One final passage of Scripture that I want us to consider is from the book of Jeremiah. In chapter 22, Jeremiah relates God's word about how the leaders are ruling. First of all, the Lord states what He expects from the leaders. Verses 2 through 3 tell us, "Hear the world of the Lord to you king of Judah, you who sit on David's throne, you, your officials and your people, who come through these gates. This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place."
Once again, we see that the Lord expects the ruler and his officials to defend those who are weak. The leaders are to help the poor and the oppressed. They are supposed to make sure that justice is carried out in the land.
Now, the Lord will make it clear that King Josiah did all of these things. In verse 16, the Lord says that Josiah did what was right. He defended the poor and the needy. Sadly, his sons did not follow in his footsteps, and the Lord is not happy about it.
The Lord says that one of Josiah's sons who became king was an oppressor himself. He did not pay his people for their labor. He only sought what was good for himself. The Lord will go on to say that King Josiah's other son King Jehoiakim did the same thing. He did not treat the people in the manner that God commanded.
Without a doubt, the Bible states that the governing authorities in a nation have the responsibilities of helping the poor, the oppressed and the vulnerable. Each of us as individual followers of Jesus have the responsibility to help others as we have been commanded by Jesus. The governing authorities will have to answer to the Lord if they do not help those who are poor, oppressed and the foreigner in their land. Amen.
Prayer Request And Other Matters
This has been a good week. I have had a good week in writing, and I have some good news to report. I was able to find a part-time job this week. I am going to start on Wednesday. I am thankful to the Lord for looking out for me on this.
I do have one prayer request this week. I am having problems with my sinuses. Please pray that all of this will resolve before I have to go into work on Wednesday.
In prayer this week, please keep praying for those recovering from natural disasters. Those in the Bahamas, the Philippines and Japan need our prayers.
Some of the fires have been contained in California. Pray that the fires will be extinguished, and pray that no more fires will start. Continue to pray that the fires in the Amazon will be put out.
Continue to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Mali need our prayers.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Chad and Tajikistan. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our current series. I believe that I will still be posting the sermon on Saturday. I will let you know if anything changes. I will post the verses on Monday. I will try to post a review on Wednesday or Thursday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Over the course of the last few weeks, we've been discussing the theme of the Bible and social justice. I want to continue with that this week and next two weeks. This week, I want us to focus on what the Bible says the government's responsibility is for those who are among its poor and vulnerable citizens. I know that some Christians believe that only private charity is supposed to be used to take care of the poor and those in need. The Bible doesn't really back that idea up. According to what the Scriptures say, it is the ruler's responsibility to make sure that the poor and the oppressed are taken care of.
The first passage of Scripture that relates to this that I would like us to look at is Psalm 72. This is a Psalm written by King Solomon. In this Psalm, Solomon will speak about some of the things that he wants to do as king, and he will speak about some areas that he needs help from the Lord in order to do what is right.
In Psalm 72:4 Solomon states, "May he defend the afflicted among the people, and save the children of the needy, may he crush the oppressor." Clearly, Solomon believes that a righteous ruler has the responsibility to make sure that the poor and needy are taken care of. Everyone in society is supposed to be looked after by the king.
In verses 12 and 13, Solomon says that following, "For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and needy, and save the needy from death."
I believe that it is quite clear from this Psalm that Solomon regards it as his God given responsible to help those in his kingdom who cannot help themselves. If he were not to do that, he would not be considered a righteous ruler in the eyes of the Lord.
Now let us look at what Isaiah has to say. In Isaiah chapter three, the prophet speaks about the Lord bringing judgment on the elders and the leaders of the land. The reason that God is angry with the leaders is because they have afflicted the poor instead of helping them, Verses 14 and 15 state, "The Lord enters into judgment against the elders and leaders of His people. It is you who have ruined my vineyard. the plunder from the poor is in your houses. What do you mean by crushing my people, and grinding the faces of the poor? declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty?"
From these verses, we learn that God does not want the leaders to treat the poor in the land in a bad way. They are not to make the lives of those who are poor harder. To do this will bring the judgment of the Lord.
One final passage of Scripture that I want us to consider is from the book of Jeremiah. In chapter 22, Jeremiah relates God's word about how the leaders are ruling. First of all, the Lord states what He expects from the leaders. Verses 2 through 3 tell us, "Hear the world of the Lord to you king of Judah, you who sit on David's throne, you, your officials and your people, who come through these gates. This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place."
Once again, we see that the Lord expects the ruler and his officials to defend those who are weak. The leaders are to help the poor and the oppressed. They are supposed to make sure that justice is carried out in the land.
Now, the Lord will make it clear that King Josiah did all of these things. In verse 16, the Lord says that Josiah did what was right. He defended the poor and the needy. Sadly, his sons did not follow in his footsteps, and the Lord is not happy about it.
The Lord says that one of Josiah's sons who became king was an oppressor himself. He did not pay his people for their labor. He only sought what was good for himself. The Lord will go on to say that King Josiah's other son King Jehoiakim did the same thing. He did not treat the people in the manner that God commanded.
Without a doubt, the Bible states that the governing authorities in a nation have the responsibilities of helping the poor, the oppressed and the vulnerable. Each of us as individual followers of Jesus have the responsibility to help others as we have been commanded by Jesus. The governing authorities will have to answer to the Lord if they do not help those who are poor, oppressed and the foreigner in their land. Amen.
Prayer Request And Other Matters
This has been a good week. I have had a good week in writing, and I have some good news to report. I was able to find a part-time job this week. I am going to start on Wednesday. I am thankful to the Lord for looking out for me on this.
I do have one prayer request this week. I am having problems with my sinuses. Please pray that all of this will resolve before I have to go into work on Wednesday.
In prayer this week, please keep praying for those recovering from natural disasters. Those in the Bahamas, the Philippines and Japan need our prayers.
Some of the fires have been contained in California. Pray that the fires will be extinguished, and pray that no more fires will start. Continue to pray that the fires in the Amazon will be put out.
Continue to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Mali need our prayers.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Chad and Tajikistan. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our current series. I believe that I will still be posting the sermon on Saturday. I will let you know if anything changes. I will post the verses on Monday. I will try to post a review on Wednesday or Thursday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Book Review -- Doctor Dogs
The book that I am reviewing today is "Doctor Dogs" written by Maria Goodavage. I reviewed her book "Secret Service Dogs" here on the blog last year. "Doctor Dogs" is a book that relates a lot of information about how dogs are being used to help people with a host of medical conditions.
In this book, the author lets us know about how dogs are able to help diabetics by detecting if a person's blood sugar is too high or too low. Dogs are also being used as seizure alert dogs. These dogs are so important to the people that they help. They become cherished friends and members of the family.
The part of the book that really interested me the most was the way that dogs are being used to help people with mental health issues. The stories about the dog who helped the woman with hallucinations was very interesting. She came to understand that if the dog wasn't reacting to the dangerous hallucinations she was experiencing, she could ignore the hallucinations because they weren't real. She has made a great deal of progress in her life with the help of her canine assistant.
Another interesting feature of the book is the discussion about how dogs are being used to sniff out cancer. This research may have life saving ramifications in the near future.
I really enjoyed reading "Doctor Dogs". Like in her previous books, Maria Goodavage does an excellent job of relating stories about dogs and their people. She writes in such a way that you really get to know the subjects she is writing about.
In this book, the author lets us know about how dogs are able to help diabetics by detecting if a person's blood sugar is too high or too low. Dogs are also being used as seizure alert dogs. These dogs are so important to the people that they help. They become cherished friends and members of the family.
The part of the book that really interested me the most was the way that dogs are being used to help people with mental health issues. The stories about the dog who helped the woman with hallucinations was very interesting. She came to understand that if the dog wasn't reacting to the dangerous hallucinations she was experiencing, she could ignore the hallucinations because they weren't real. She has made a great deal of progress in her life with the help of her canine assistant.
Another interesting feature of the book is the discussion about how dogs are being used to sniff out cancer. This research may have life saving ramifications in the near future.
I really enjoyed reading "Doctor Dogs". Like in her previous books, Maria Goodavage does an excellent job of relating stories about dogs and their people. She writes in such a way that you really get to know the subjects she is writing about.
Monday, November 4, 2019
Verses For The Week -- Verses About Our Work For The Lord
Colossians 3:23 -- "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."
Romans 12:11 -- "Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord."
Romans 2:6 -- "He will render to each one according to his works."
Romans 12:11 -- "Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord."
Romans 2:6 -- "He will render to each one according to his works."
Saturday, November 2, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice -- Part 3
Thank you for taking the time to read the Weekend Sermon this week. I want to thank the Lord for this opportunity.
Today, we will be continuing with our series of messages on the Bible and Social Justice. This week, we will be considering what the Bible has to say about the proper treatment of workers.
I believe that one of the major areas where the poor are oppressed in today's world is in the area of work and the wages that they receive for their labors. There are large multinational corporations who make billions of dollars each year who don't pay their workers enough to live a decent life. That is wrong, and the Bible makes that clear. Let's look into it.
The Bible tells us in Isaiah 58 what the Lord's opinion is of those who exploit those who work for them. Verses 3-4 state, "Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high."
The Lord is telling us that we may have an outward show of religion, but if we don't treat those who work for us in the right way it is worthless. The Lord will not even listen to those who exploit the worker.
In the New Testament book of James, we are told much the same thing. James chapter 5 verses 1-6 gives us James' rebuke against the wealthy oppressors. James said that misery was coming upon them because they hoarded their wealth. In verse 4 James states the workers were not paid what was owed to them. The cries of injustice of the workers had reached the ears of the Lord.
In the Old Testament Apocryphal book of Sirach, the condemnation against those who don't pay their workers in the right way is most harsh. Sirach 34:22 states, "To deprive an employee of his wages is to shed blood(RSVCE)".
These verses make it clear that the Lord expects us to pay a fair and decent wage to employees, and He expects it to be paid on time. There is absolutely no excuse for rich corporations and individuals to not pay a living wage to all employees. By a living wage, I mean a wage that provides a person with enough to have what is needed in life such as a good place to live, healthcare, enough to eat and something left over for some enjoyment.
There are many corporate executives who make millions of dollars while the workers are being paid as little as a couple of dollars a day. This is outrageous, and it is not in keeping with the Scriptures.
The Bible has more to say about how workers are to be treated. Everyone is entitled to time off from work. When God created the world, He rested on the seventh day. He established a Sabbath rest. Deuteronomy 5:13-15 tells us that God commanded His people to take one day off per weak. That applied to everyone and animals. They were supposed to get a day off too.
No one should have to work every single day of the week in order to make a living. No one should be worked to the point that they get ill or hurt. The Lord expects that people take care of others as we are our brother's keeper.
It all comes down to what Jesus told us in Matthew 7:12. He gave us the Golden Rule and said to do unto others as we would have done to us. Think about that if you own a business or own shares in a company. Would you want to be treated the way your workers are treated? Would you want to make the wages that you are paying? Would you think that your wages are fair?
Now, some will raise the old objections about paying what is competitive with other companies or trying to get the most profit for shareholders. Here is the problem with those arguments if you are a Christian, The Lord calls you to do what is right not what will make the most profit. You are responsible to honor and follow the will of the Lord before any board of directors or shareholders.
I believe there will be many people who will have to give an account for the way that they have exploited the poor and oppressed laborers. The world would be so much better if people thought less about maximizing profits and thought more about doing what is right and honoring God. Amen
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
I would like to thank the Lord for allowing me to have a good week in writing. I am hoping that the writing jobs keep coming as that is what I enjoying doing.
In prayer this week. please remember to pray that the fires in California will be extinguished. Pray that people will be safe, and pray for the safety of the first responders. There are also ongoing fires in the Amazon, and we need to pray that these will be put out.
Please continue to pray for those who are recovering from the storms and natural disasters. Pray for those in Japan, the Philippines and the Bahamas.
Please pray that the children who have been separated from their parents at the US border will be reunited with their parents. I heard a report today about one little girl who has been locked up away from her mom for 128 days. This is so wrong.
Remember to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Pray for peace in Syria, Afghanistan, Libya and Somalia.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Myanmar and Morocco. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. On Wednesday, I will post another review of a dog book. May God bless you all . Amen.
Today, we will be continuing with our series of messages on the Bible and Social Justice. This week, we will be considering what the Bible has to say about the proper treatment of workers.
I believe that one of the major areas where the poor are oppressed in today's world is in the area of work and the wages that they receive for their labors. There are large multinational corporations who make billions of dollars each year who don't pay their workers enough to live a decent life. That is wrong, and the Bible makes that clear. Let's look into it.
The Bible tells us in Isaiah 58 what the Lord's opinion is of those who exploit those who work for them. Verses 3-4 state, "Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high."
The Lord is telling us that we may have an outward show of religion, but if we don't treat those who work for us in the right way it is worthless. The Lord will not even listen to those who exploit the worker.
In the New Testament book of James, we are told much the same thing. James chapter 5 verses 1-6 gives us James' rebuke against the wealthy oppressors. James said that misery was coming upon them because they hoarded their wealth. In verse 4 James states the workers were not paid what was owed to them. The cries of injustice of the workers had reached the ears of the Lord.
In the Old Testament Apocryphal book of Sirach, the condemnation against those who don't pay their workers in the right way is most harsh. Sirach 34:22 states, "To deprive an employee of his wages is to shed blood(RSVCE)".
These verses make it clear that the Lord expects us to pay a fair and decent wage to employees, and He expects it to be paid on time. There is absolutely no excuse for rich corporations and individuals to not pay a living wage to all employees. By a living wage, I mean a wage that provides a person with enough to have what is needed in life such as a good place to live, healthcare, enough to eat and something left over for some enjoyment.
There are many corporate executives who make millions of dollars while the workers are being paid as little as a couple of dollars a day. This is outrageous, and it is not in keeping with the Scriptures.
The Bible has more to say about how workers are to be treated. Everyone is entitled to time off from work. When God created the world, He rested on the seventh day. He established a Sabbath rest. Deuteronomy 5:13-15 tells us that God commanded His people to take one day off per weak. That applied to everyone and animals. They were supposed to get a day off too.
No one should have to work every single day of the week in order to make a living. No one should be worked to the point that they get ill or hurt. The Lord expects that people take care of others as we are our brother's keeper.
It all comes down to what Jesus told us in Matthew 7:12. He gave us the Golden Rule and said to do unto others as we would have done to us. Think about that if you own a business or own shares in a company. Would you want to be treated the way your workers are treated? Would you want to make the wages that you are paying? Would you think that your wages are fair?
Now, some will raise the old objections about paying what is competitive with other companies or trying to get the most profit for shareholders. Here is the problem with those arguments if you are a Christian, The Lord calls you to do what is right not what will make the most profit. You are responsible to honor and follow the will of the Lord before any board of directors or shareholders.
I believe there will be many people who will have to give an account for the way that they have exploited the poor and oppressed laborers. The world would be so much better if people thought less about maximizing profits and thought more about doing what is right and honoring God. Amen
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
I would like to thank the Lord for allowing me to have a good week in writing. I am hoping that the writing jobs keep coming as that is what I enjoying doing.
In prayer this week. please remember to pray that the fires in California will be extinguished. Pray that people will be safe, and pray for the safety of the first responders. There are also ongoing fires in the Amazon, and we need to pray that these will be put out.
Please continue to pray for those who are recovering from the storms and natural disasters. Pray for those in Japan, the Philippines and the Bahamas.
Please pray that the children who have been separated from their parents at the US border will be reunited with their parents. I heard a report today about one little girl who has been locked up away from her mom for 128 days. This is so wrong.
Remember to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Pray for peace in Syria, Afghanistan, Libya and Somalia.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in Myanmar and Morocco. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, we will continue with our series on the Bible and Social Justice. I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. On Wednesday, I will post another review of a dog book. May God bless you all . Amen.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Book Review -- Molly
The book that I would like to review today is entitled, "Molly: The Amazing True Story Of The Dog Who Rescues Cats" by Colin Butcher. I really enjoyed this book. It is different than many of the dog books I've read recently.
Colin Butcher started off working for the police force in the UK. He rose to the rank of inspector, and he often had the opportunity to work with K9 officers and their handlers. After a time, Colin decided to leave the force and establish his own private investigation business. He operated that successfully, and then he decided to branch out and start a pet investigation business as well.
Colin was doing well, but he wasn't satisfied with how the business was finding lost cats. He felt they needed something extra. That's where Molly comes into the picture.
Molly is an English cocker spaniel that Colin rescued. She was trained by expert trainers to scent locate cats that had gone missing.
The bulk of the book details Molly's training, and how she and Colin started working together. What I liked most about the book is that the author relates many actually cases. It provides the book with a sense of excitement, and it really lets the reader understand how the detection process works.
I highly recommend "Molly". I believe all dog lovers will really like this book.
Colin Butcher started off working for the police force in the UK. He rose to the rank of inspector, and he often had the opportunity to work with K9 officers and their handlers. After a time, Colin decided to leave the force and establish his own private investigation business. He operated that successfully, and then he decided to branch out and start a pet investigation business as well.
Colin was doing well, but he wasn't satisfied with how the business was finding lost cats. He felt they needed something extra. That's where Molly comes into the picture.
Molly is an English cocker spaniel that Colin rescued. She was trained by expert trainers to scent locate cats that had gone missing.
The bulk of the book details Molly's training, and how she and Colin started working together. What I liked most about the book is that the author relates many actually cases. It provides the book with a sense of excitement, and it really lets the reader understand how the detection process works.
I highly recommend "Molly". I believe all dog lovers will really like this book.
Monday, October 28, 2019
Verses For The Week
Psalm 28:7 -- "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him."
Philippians 4:4 -- "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Philippians 4:4 -- "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice -- Part 2
Welcome to this week's posting of the Weekend Sermon. I am glad that you have taken the time to read the sermon this week, and I hope and pray that everyone is doing well.
Last week, we began a new series of messages about what the Bible has to say about the issue of social justice. We covered a few of the verses in the Bible that tell us about God's concern for justice. The Lord cares about what happens to the poor and the oppressed. He cares about what happens to this world that He has made.
Today, I want to go into something a little more specific. I would like to discuss what the Bible says is the individuals duty to the poor. Later in the series, we will discuss what the Bible says the government's responsibility is toward helping the poor. By the way, the Bible does say that the government does have a duty to help the poor.
Starting in the Old Testament, the Bible is quite clear that we are to help those who are poor. In fact, the people were instructed in Deuteronomy 26:12 to bring a tithe to be distributed for the poor every three years. In Leviticus 19:9-10, the Lord provided the following instruction, "When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God." With this instruction, the Lord was telling the people that they needed to make sure that the needs of the poor were taken care of. Everyone had the responsibility to make sure that those who were less fortunate had what they needed to survive. We might not have fields to leave behind a portion of the grain, but this verse tells us that we need to contribute to helping the poor in some way.
In the book of Ruth, we see this instruction of the Lord carried out. Boaz first encountered Ruth when she was gathering up some of the harvest that had been left behind for the poor.
Some Christians acknowledge the books of the Apocrypha and some do not. I am going to mention a selection from the Apocrypha that speaks to the issue of giving to the poor. In the book of Tobit, Tobit gives instruction to his son about how he should conduct himself in life. He says in Tobit 4:7 -- "Give alms from your possessions, and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it. Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor, and the face of God will not be turned away from you." Tobit goes on in verse 8 to say, "If you have many possessions, make your gift from them in proportion; if few, do not be afraid to give from the little you have." What Tobit is telling us is that we should give to the poor in proportion to how much money we have. If we are wealthy, we should give more. If we have little and are still able to give, we should give and help out as we are able."
The New Testament has much to say about giving to the poor and helping those who are in need. In Luke 16, we have the story that Jesus told about the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man didn't do anything to help Lazarus. Lazarus was sick, poor and homeless. The rich man didn't even give him a few crumbs even though Lazarus was outside of his gate. The rich man ended up in hell. And Lazarus went to Heaven.
In Matthew 25, the Lord Jesus tells us that when we do good to those who are hungry, naked and poor, we are doing good to Him. He says, "When you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me."
In Act 4:32-35, we are told about how the members of the early church conducted themselves. This passage tells us that they had all things in common. They sold their possessions to help one another out. We are told that there was no needy person among them.
The final verse that I want to give you is from I John 3:17 that really tells us clearly about our obligation as believers in the Lord Jesus. This passage states, "If any one has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?"
Now, I just want to wrap this up. The Bible is clear that the Lord expects us to take care of those who are poor, homeless and needy within our church family and within the society at large. When the Lord was establishing the people of Israel in the land, He made sure that the needs of the poor where addressed.
The Bible tells us that we should help those who are poor and in need in proportion to what we have. To whom much is given, much is required.
If we do not help the poor, homeless and needy, we are just like the rich man who did not extend his help to Lazarus. The Bible says that those who do not help those who need help do not have the love of God in their hearts.
There is a great deal of need in this world. There are people who don't have enough to eat, they don't have enough money for proper medical care and they don't have adequate clothing. As believers in Jesus Christ, it is our obligation to help meet the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ and those who are in the world. When we reach out to others, it is as if we are doing good to the Lord Jesus Himself. Amen
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
I just want to thank the Lord for a very good week in writing. I am enjoying working on writing a lot lately.
This week, I do have a job interview for a part-time job. Please pray that I will know the Lord's will in this matter.
In prayer this week, please remember to pray for those who are recovering from storms and other natural disasters. Pray for those in Japan, the Philippines, the Bahamas and in Texas. Also pray for those dealing with the fires in California.
Let us also be in prayer about the fires in the Amazon. Pray that these fires will be extinguished soon.
This week, I heard a report that there was a possible peace agreement in Yemen. I hope that this is true. I thank the Lord for a chance at peace. Let us keep praying for Yemen. Let us also continue to pray for peace in Syria, Libya, Ukraine and Afghanistan.
Let us pray for refugees wherever they are in this world.
Remember to pray for those in Congo. Pray that the Ebola outbreak will end.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let's pray for Togo and Vietnam. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. On Wednesday I will have a review of a dog book. The schedule for next week is tentative. We are supposed to have two possible snow events. May God bless you all. Amen.
Last week, we began a new series of messages about what the Bible has to say about the issue of social justice. We covered a few of the verses in the Bible that tell us about God's concern for justice. The Lord cares about what happens to the poor and the oppressed. He cares about what happens to this world that He has made.
Today, I want to go into something a little more specific. I would like to discuss what the Bible says is the individuals duty to the poor. Later in the series, we will discuss what the Bible says the government's responsibility is toward helping the poor. By the way, the Bible does say that the government does have a duty to help the poor.
Starting in the Old Testament, the Bible is quite clear that we are to help those who are poor. In fact, the people were instructed in Deuteronomy 26:12 to bring a tithe to be distributed for the poor every three years. In Leviticus 19:9-10, the Lord provided the following instruction, "When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God." With this instruction, the Lord was telling the people that they needed to make sure that the needs of the poor were taken care of. Everyone had the responsibility to make sure that those who were less fortunate had what they needed to survive. We might not have fields to leave behind a portion of the grain, but this verse tells us that we need to contribute to helping the poor in some way.
In the book of Ruth, we see this instruction of the Lord carried out. Boaz first encountered Ruth when she was gathering up some of the harvest that had been left behind for the poor.
Some Christians acknowledge the books of the Apocrypha and some do not. I am going to mention a selection from the Apocrypha that speaks to the issue of giving to the poor. In the book of Tobit, Tobit gives instruction to his son about how he should conduct himself in life. He says in Tobit 4:7 -- "Give alms from your possessions, and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it. Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor, and the face of God will not be turned away from you." Tobit goes on in verse 8 to say, "If you have many possessions, make your gift from them in proportion; if few, do not be afraid to give from the little you have." What Tobit is telling us is that we should give to the poor in proportion to how much money we have. If we are wealthy, we should give more. If we have little and are still able to give, we should give and help out as we are able."
The New Testament has much to say about giving to the poor and helping those who are in need. In Luke 16, we have the story that Jesus told about the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man didn't do anything to help Lazarus. Lazarus was sick, poor and homeless. The rich man didn't even give him a few crumbs even though Lazarus was outside of his gate. The rich man ended up in hell. And Lazarus went to Heaven.
In Matthew 25, the Lord Jesus tells us that when we do good to those who are hungry, naked and poor, we are doing good to Him. He says, "When you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me."
In Act 4:32-35, we are told about how the members of the early church conducted themselves. This passage tells us that they had all things in common. They sold their possessions to help one another out. We are told that there was no needy person among them.
The final verse that I want to give you is from I John 3:17 that really tells us clearly about our obligation as believers in the Lord Jesus. This passage states, "If any one has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?"
Now, I just want to wrap this up. The Bible is clear that the Lord expects us to take care of those who are poor, homeless and needy within our church family and within the society at large. When the Lord was establishing the people of Israel in the land, He made sure that the needs of the poor where addressed.
The Bible tells us that we should help those who are poor and in need in proportion to what we have. To whom much is given, much is required.
If we do not help the poor, homeless and needy, we are just like the rich man who did not extend his help to Lazarus. The Bible says that those who do not help those who need help do not have the love of God in their hearts.
There is a great deal of need in this world. There are people who don't have enough to eat, they don't have enough money for proper medical care and they don't have adequate clothing. As believers in Jesus Christ, it is our obligation to help meet the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ and those who are in the world. When we reach out to others, it is as if we are doing good to the Lord Jesus Himself. Amen
Prayer Requests And Other Matters
I just want to thank the Lord for a very good week in writing. I am enjoying working on writing a lot lately.
This week, I do have a job interview for a part-time job. Please pray that I will know the Lord's will in this matter.
In prayer this week, please remember to pray for those who are recovering from storms and other natural disasters. Pray for those in Japan, the Philippines, the Bahamas and in Texas. Also pray for those dealing with the fires in California.
Let us also be in prayer about the fires in the Amazon. Pray that these fires will be extinguished soon.
This week, I heard a report that there was a possible peace agreement in Yemen. I hope that this is true. I thank the Lord for a chance at peace. Let us keep praying for Yemen. Let us also continue to pray for peace in Syria, Libya, Ukraine and Afghanistan.
Let us pray for refugees wherever they are in this world.
Remember to pray for those in Congo. Pray that the Ebola outbreak will end.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let's pray for Togo and Vietnam. Pray that many will hear about the love of Jesus.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. On Monday, I will post the verses. On Wednesday I will have a review of a dog book. The schedule for next week is tentative. We are supposed to have two possible snow events. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Two Poetry Book Recommendations
Today I want to recommend two poetry books that I've recently read. The first is called "The Rain In Portugal" written by Billy Collins. This is Mr. Collins' twelfth book of poetry. He is the former Poet Laureate of the United States.
I've recommend other poetry books by Billy Collins here on the blog in the past. His poetry is very accessible and interesting. The poem that serves as the title of the collection is among the best of the 50 that you will find in the book.
The second poetry collection I would like to recommend is "The Collected Poems of Wendell Berry 1957-1982". This collection contains some of Mr. Berry's most well-known poems including "The Peace of Wild Things". I enjoy Wendell Berry's poetry very much, and I believe that you will too. This is a good introduction to his poetry. Like Billy Collins, Wendell Berry has several poetry collections available that you can read and enjoy.
I've recommend other poetry books by Billy Collins here on the blog in the past. His poetry is very accessible and interesting. The poem that serves as the title of the collection is among the best of the 50 that you will find in the book.
The second poetry collection I would like to recommend is "The Collected Poems of Wendell Berry 1957-1982". This collection contains some of Mr. Berry's most well-known poems including "The Peace of Wild Things". I enjoy Wendell Berry's poetry very much, and I believe that you will too. This is a good introduction to his poetry. Like Billy Collins, Wendell Berry has several poetry collections available that you can read and enjoy.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Verses For The Week
Colossians 3:1 -- "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your heart on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."
Hebrews 10:14 -- "For by one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy."
Hebrews 10:14 -- "For by one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy."
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- The Bible And Social Justice --- Part One
Thank you for taking the time to read the Weekend Sermon. I am once again thankful to the Lord for providing me with the opportunity to post this message. I hope and pray that you are all having a very good week.
This week, we will be starting a new series of messages that I am calling the Bible and social justice. The Lord has a lot to say in His Word about justice for the poor and the oppressed. Over the course of the next few weeks, we will look at what the Scriptures tell us concerning our obligations to the poor and the vulnerable in society. We will examine what the Bible has to say about what the government's role is in helping its citizens. We will also explore what the Bible has to say about our obligations as far as environmental justice is concerned.
In today's message, I want us to focus our attention on the verses that speak about God's desire for justice and God's care for the poor and the oppressed in society. One of the first verses that came to my mind when I was first thinking about this series of messages was Micah 6:8 which states, "He has shown you, O mortal what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and love mercy and to walk humbly with you God." This verse clearly shows us that the Lord expects His people to be merciful and to seek justice in the world.
Another verse that came instantly into my mind when considering this series is James 1:27 which reads, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after widows and orphans in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." The Lord expects us to look after those who are considered the most vulnerable in society.
There are other verses that I want to make you aware of that speaks about what the Lord expects of His followers in regard to helping the poor and standing up for justice. One important verse is Isaiah 1:17 which states, "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." Isaiah 58:6-7 gives us this word, "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter, when you see the naked to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
When the Lord led His people out of bondage in the land of Egypt, He provided them with instructions on how they were to deal with vulnerable people in society. We read in Exodus 22:21-23, "Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. Do not take advantage of the widow of the fatherless. If you do and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry."
One other verse that I want to point out from the Old Testament is Malachi 3:5 that gives us these words, "So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear Me, says the Lord Almighty." This verse is very clear. The Lord will judge those who oppress the weak and the powerless. The Lord demands that His people stand up for justice and what is right.
These verses tell us that the Lord cares about what happens to those who are poor and in need. However, the passage of Scripture that I believe tells us what our obligations are to those who are in need come from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 25, Jesus judges the sheep and the goats. Jesus said that those who did good to the least among them will enter into His kingdom. Jesus said that when you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me. Those who rejected the poor, hungry and naked where in essence rejecting Jesus Himself.
I believe that there can be no doubt that everyone who is a follower of the Lord Jesus has an obligation to stand up for justice for the oppressed. There is an obligation of the follower of Jesus to help the poor, the hungry and those who are sick.
In the week's to come, I want to look at some of the specifics that the Bible gives us for how the poor are to be treated. I want to look at what the Bible says about how immigrants are to be treated. I will also look into what the Bible says about taking care of the environment, and what the Bible says about the government's responsibility in caring for its most vulnerable citizens. I hope that you will read the Weekend Sermon and find out more about these things in the weeks ahead, Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This has been a good week for me. I have been feeling well, and the Lord has provided me with a lot of writing work. I am trying to find a part time job to get a little extra money, and I would ask that you pray for me in this matter.
In prayer this week, please pray for those in Japan who were in the path of the storm. Pray that those who were affected by the storm will receive the aid and the help that they need.
Let us all pray for those in the Philippines. There was an earthquake in that country this week, and we need to pray for those who need help.
Continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who are recovering from the hurricane. There are people in Texas who still need help from the flooding that occurred there.
Please continue to pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those who are trying to help in that situation.
Remember to keep praying for peace. There is a terrible crisis in Syria, and that country really needs our prayers. Let us also pray for peace in Afghanistan, Yemen and Libya.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those who live in Lebanon and Malaysia. Pray that many will hear about the love that Jesus has for them.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. I will post the verses on Monday. On Wednesday, I will post a review or a poem. May God bless you all. Amen.
This week, we will be starting a new series of messages that I am calling the Bible and social justice. The Lord has a lot to say in His Word about justice for the poor and the oppressed. Over the course of the next few weeks, we will look at what the Scriptures tell us concerning our obligations to the poor and the vulnerable in society. We will examine what the Bible has to say about what the government's role is in helping its citizens. We will also explore what the Bible has to say about our obligations as far as environmental justice is concerned.
In today's message, I want us to focus our attention on the verses that speak about God's desire for justice and God's care for the poor and the oppressed in society. One of the first verses that came to my mind when I was first thinking about this series of messages was Micah 6:8 which states, "He has shown you, O mortal what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and love mercy and to walk humbly with you God." This verse clearly shows us that the Lord expects His people to be merciful and to seek justice in the world.
Another verse that came instantly into my mind when considering this series is James 1:27 which reads, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after widows and orphans in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." The Lord expects us to look after those who are considered the most vulnerable in society.
There are other verses that I want to make you aware of that speaks about what the Lord expects of His followers in regard to helping the poor and standing up for justice. One important verse is Isaiah 1:17 which states, "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." Isaiah 58:6-7 gives us this word, "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter, when you see the naked to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
When the Lord led His people out of bondage in the land of Egypt, He provided them with instructions on how they were to deal with vulnerable people in society. We read in Exodus 22:21-23, "Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. Do not take advantage of the widow of the fatherless. If you do and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry."
One other verse that I want to point out from the Old Testament is Malachi 3:5 that gives us these words, "So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear Me, says the Lord Almighty." This verse is very clear. The Lord will judge those who oppress the weak and the powerless. The Lord demands that His people stand up for justice and what is right.
These verses tell us that the Lord cares about what happens to those who are poor and in need. However, the passage of Scripture that I believe tells us what our obligations are to those who are in need come from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 25, Jesus judges the sheep and the goats. Jesus said that those who did good to the least among them will enter into His kingdom. Jesus said that when you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me. Those who rejected the poor, hungry and naked where in essence rejecting Jesus Himself.
I believe that there can be no doubt that everyone who is a follower of the Lord Jesus has an obligation to stand up for justice for the oppressed. There is an obligation of the follower of Jesus to help the poor, the hungry and those who are sick.
In the week's to come, I want to look at some of the specifics that the Bible gives us for how the poor are to be treated. I want to look at what the Bible says about how immigrants are to be treated. I will also look into what the Bible says about taking care of the environment, and what the Bible says about the government's responsibility in caring for its most vulnerable citizens. I hope that you will read the Weekend Sermon and find out more about these things in the weeks ahead, Amen.
Prayer Requests and Other Matters
This has been a good week for me. I have been feeling well, and the Lord has provided me with a lot of writing work. I am trying to find a part time job to get a little extra money, and I would ask that you pray for me in this matter.
In prayer this week, please pray for those in Japan who were in the path of the storm. Pray that those who were affected by the storm will receive the aid and the help that they need.
Let us all pray for those in the Philippines. There was an earthquake in that country this week, and we need to pray for those who need help.
Continue to pray for those in the Bahamas who are recovering from the hurricane. There are people in Texas who still need help from the flooding that occurred there.
Please continue to pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those who are trying to help in that situation.
Remember to keep praying for peace. There is a terrible crisis in Syria, and that country really needs our prayers. Let us also pray for peace in Afghanistan, Yemen and Libya.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those who live in Lebanon and Malaysia. Pray that many will hear about the love that Jesus has for them.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. I will post the verses on Monday. On Wednesday, I will post a review or a poem. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Two DVD Recommendations
I want to recommend two DVDs that I watched this week. The first was a travel program called "Visions of Greece". This was a fantastic program that contained aerial views of the Greek countryside and the Greek islands.
The second DVD is entitled "Itzhak". This is a film that deals with the life of violinist Itzhak Perlman. The film takes us into Mr. Perlman's life in music and with his family. While we are seeing Itzhak Perlman in the present, we are also provided with details about the musician's life.
I found this to be a very well done film. The music was great, of course. I think the portion that I liked the best was watching Mr. Perlman rehearse with other great musicians. As someone who plays the trumpet, I found it fascinating to see how truly professional musicians practice and prepare for performances. If you like classical music and you want to know more about the life of one of the world's great classical musicians, you should watch this film.
The second DVD is entitled "Itzhak". This is a film that deals with the life of violinist Itzhak Perlman. The film takes us into Mr. Perlman's life in music and with his family. While we are seeing Itzhak Perlman in the present, we are also provided with details about the musician's life.
I found this to be a very well done film. The music was great, of course. I think the portion that I liked the best was watching Mr. Perlman rehearse with other great musicians. As someone who plays the trumpet, I found it fascinating to see how truly professional musicians practice and prepare for performances. If you like classical music and you want to know more about the life of one of the world's great classical musicians, you should watch this film.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Verses For The Week
Matthew 14:14 -- "When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd, and He felt compassion for them and healed their sick."
Isaiah 40:11 -- "Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arms He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes."
Isaiah 40:11 -- "Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arms He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes."
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Weekend Sermon -- II Corinthians 5:18-21
Welcome to this week's edition of the Weekend Sermon. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to read the sermon. I hope and pray that everyone is doing well.
I've had a busy week. I had a lot of writing work to do, and I had a temporary job helping someone with a project. I thank the Lord for the work.
In prayer this week, please pray for those in Japan who are impacted by the typhoon. Pray that people will be safe, and pray that those who are injured or who have suffered damage will get the help that they need. Pray for those who still need help in the Bahamas as well.
Please pray that in my country, the US, that those children who were separated from their parents at the border will be reunited with their parents. Courts have ruled that the children should be reunited with their parents, but this has not happened in all circumstances. This is a terrible thing that has happened, and these children need our prayers.
Continue to pray for the end of the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those who are assisting with this crisis.
The nation of Syria really needs our prayers right now. Many people are suffering today, and it didn't have to be this way. Please pray for peace in that nation. Pray for peace in Afghanistan, Yemen and Libya as well.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the Czech Republic and Qatar. Pray that many will recognize their need for the Lord Jesus.
This week, we will be concluding our series of messages on what we can learn from II Corinthians chapter 5. Today, we will focus our attention on verses 18-21. I want us to focus on two particular themes from these verses. First of all, verse 20 tells us that we are to be ambassadors for Christ. The second thing that I want to emphasis is what Jesus has done for us.
We are called to be ambassadors for the Lord in this world. What does this mean. An ambassador is a person who represents his or her country in another country. As believers in the Lord Jesus, we are citizens of His heavenly kingdom. We are not at home in this world. We are looking for a city whose builder and maker is God.
While we are here on this earth in its unredeemed state, we are to be the representatives of our Lord and King Jesus. We are to tell others about Him, and we are to represent the values of the Kingdom of Heaven while we are on the earth.
One of our important missions as ambassadors for Christ is to make Him known to others. Jesus instructed us to do this when He gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. We are to tell others that Jesus has come to seek and to save those who are lost. As we see in II Corinthians 5, we have been given the ministry of reconciliation. We are to tell others that they can be reconciled to God the Father through the His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
As ambassadors for Christ, we have another important duty. We are to demonstrate in our lives and in our actions the values and the teachings of the Lord we claim to serve. Jesus lived His life on this earth as a demonstration as to how we are to live in the world. He gave us the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount so that we would know what the values of the Kingdom of Heaven are.
This world in which we live does not for the most part honor and practice the values and teachings of the Lord Jesus. The poor are exploited for profit. Greed abounds. People are discriminated against because of their race, sex and ethnic origins. The environment is being destroyed. People are going hungry and dying from treatable diseases. This is not in keeping with the values taught by the Lord Jesus.
As ambassadors for Christ in this world, we are to speak up against injustice and oppression. We are to work to make this world a better place. We are to help others in the name of the Lord.
Now, I would like to focus on the final verse of II Corinthians 5 which states, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
Jesus came to this earth to save us from our sin. On the cross, He bore our sins in His body. He took our penalty. He was the Lamb of God come to take away the sin of the world.
When we come to faith in the Lord Jesus, He forgives us of our sins and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. He takes our sin from us, and in its place, He gives us His righteousness. We are clothed in the righteousness of Christ.
I hope that you have asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins. I hope that you are acting as an ambassador for the Lord in this present age.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. We will be starting a new series of messages. I will post the verses on Monday. I will try to post a review or a poem on either Wednesday or Thursday. May God bless you all. Amen.
I've had a busy week. I had a lot of writing work to do, and I had a temporary job helping someone with a project. I thank the Lord for the work.
In prayer this week, please pray for those in Japan who are impacted by the typhoon. Pray that people will be safe, and pray that those who are injured or who have suffered damage will get the help that they need. Pray for those who still need help in the Bahamas as well.
Please pray that in my country, the US, that those children who were separated from their parents at the border will be reunited with their parents. Courts have ruled that the children should be reunited with their parents, but this has not happened in all circumstances. This is a terrible thing that has happened, and these children need our prayers.
Continue to pray for the end of the Ebola outbreak in Congo. Pray for those who are assisting with this crisis.
The nation of Syria really needs our prayers right now. Many people are suffering today, and it didn't have to be this way. Please pray for peace in that nation. Pray for peace in Afghanistan, Yemen and Libya as well.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for those in the Czech Republic and Qatar. Pray that many will recognize their need for the Lord Jesus.
This week, we will be concluding our series of messages on what we can learn from II Corinthians chapter 5. Today, we will focus our attention on verses 18-21. I want us to focus on two particular themes from these verses. First of all, verse 20 tells us that we are to be ambassadors for Christ. The second thing that I want to emphasis is what Jesus has done for us.
We are called to be ambassadors for the Lord in this world. What does this mean. An ambassador is a person who represents his or her country in another country. As believers in the Lord Jesus, we are citizens of His heavenly kingdom. We are not at home in this world. We are looking for a city whose builder and maker is God.
While we are here on this earth in its unredeemed state, we are to be the representatives of our Lord and King Jesus. We are to tell others about Him, and we are to represent the values of the Kingdom of Heaven while we are on the earth.
One of our important missions as ambassadors for Christ is to make Him known to others. Jesus instructed us to do this when He gave the Great Commission to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. We are to tell others that Jesus has come to seek and to save those who are lost. As we see in II Corinthians 5, we have been given the ministry of reconciliation. We are to tell others that they can be reconciled to God the Father through the His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
As ambassadors for Christ, we have another important duty. We are to demonstrate in our lives and in our actions the values and the teachings of the Lord we claim to serve. Jesus lived His life on this earth as a demonstration as to how we are to live in the world. He gave us the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount so that we would know what the values of the Kingdom of Heaven are.
This world in which we live does not for the most part honor and practice the values and teachings of the Lord Jesus. The poor are exploited for profit. Greed abounds. People are discriminated against because of their race, sex and ethnic origins. The environment is being destroyed. People are going hungry and dying from treatable diseases. This is not in keeping with the values taught by the Lord Jesus.
As ambassadors for Christ in this world, we are to speak up against injustice and oppression. We are to work to make this world a better place. We are to help others in the name of the Lord.
Now, I would like to focus on the final verse of II Corinthians 5 which states, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
Jesus came to this earth to save us from our sin. On the cross, He bore our sins in His body. He took our penalty. He was the Lamb of God come to take away the sin of the world.
When we come to faith in the Lord Jesus, He forgives us of our sins and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. He takes our sin from us, and in its place, He gives us His righteousness. We are clothed in the righteousness of Christ.
I hope that you have asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins. I hope that you are acting as an ambassador for the Lord in this present age.
Next week, I will post the sermon on Saturday. We will be starting a new series of messages. I will post the verses on Monday. I will try to post a review or a poem on either Wednesday or Thursday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Book Review -- The Dog Went Over The Mountain
The book that I am reviewing today is called "The Dog Who Went Over The Mountain", and the author of the book is Peter Zheutlin. This book is about a man who takes his dog named Albie on a journey to retrace the journey taken by John Steinbeck and his dog Charley. Steinbeck writes about his travels in the book "Travels With Charley."
The author and his rescued Labrador mix begin their journey going in the opposite direction taken by Steinbeck and Charley. Peter and Albie head south first. I found the descriptions of this part of the journey interesting.
Another major part of the book recounts the time that the author and Albie spent in New Orleans. From there, the pair traveled up to Oklahoma to visit the home of Woody Guthrie.
One of the better parts of the book was the section about the Grand Canyon. You will be hoping as you read the account that that the fog will lift so that the author can once again see the Grand Canyon.
The journey continues into California were the author gets to visit the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, California. The author was able to see the actual vehicle that Steinbeck and Charley used for their journey.
After this part of the trip, the narrative takes a turn, and this is my disappointment with the book. From the writing, it seems that the author was growing tired of the journey and just wanted to get back home. This is especially true after he and Albie left Idaho. The description of the rest of the journey is limited and rushed.
For the most part, I did enjoy this book. However, it wasn't as good as I thought that it was going to be. The book isn't bad, it's just not great. The author and Albie do have a nice relationship, and Albie seems like a very nice dog.
The best book I've read about a man traveling the country with a dog is " A Walk Across America" by Peter Jenkins. "Travels With Macy" by Bruce Fogle is another book about a man inspired by "Travels With Charley" taking a journey across America. This is a very good book that I definitely recommend.
"The Dog Who Went Over The Mountain" is a good book. You will enjoy reading the first half. The second half isn't as good.
The author and his rescued Labrador mix begin their journey going in the opposite direction taken by Steinbeck and Charley. Peter and Albie head south first. I found the descriptions of this part of the journey interesting.
Another major part of the book recounts the time that the author and Albie spent in New Orleans. From there, the pair traveled up to Oklahoma to visit the home of Woody Guthrie.
One of the better parts of the book was the section about the Grand Canyon. You will be hoping as you read the account that that the fog will lift so that the author can once again see the Grand Canyon.
The journey continues into California were the author gets to visit the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, California. The author was able to see the actual vehicle that Steinbeck and Charley used for their journey.
After this part of the trip, the narrative takes a turn, and this is my disappointment with the book. From the writing, it seems that the author was growing tired of the journey and just wanted to get back home. This is especially true after he and Albie left Idaho. The description of the rest of the journey is limited and rushed.
For the most part, I did enjoy this book. However, it wasn't as good as I thought that it was going to be. The book isn't bad, it's just not great. The author and Albie do have a nice relationship, and Albie seems like a very nice dog.
The best book I've read about a man traveling the country with a dog is " A Walk Across America" by Peter Jenkins. "Travels With Macy" by Bruce Fogle is another book about a man inspired by "Travels With Charley" taking a journey across America. This is a very good book that I definitely recommend.
"The Dog Who Went Over The Mountain" is a good book. You will enjoy reading the first half. The second half isn't as good.
Monday, October 7, 2019
Verses For The Week
The feast day of St. Francis of Assisi was on October 4. This last Sunday was also the day that many churches have their blessing of the animals service. In light of these events, I want to post some verses this week about animals and the creation.
Psalm 24:1 -- "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell there in."
Proverbs 12:10 -- "Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel."
Psalm 95:5 -- "The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land."
Job 12:7-10 -- "But ask the beasts, and they will teach you, the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind."
Psalm 36:6 -- "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals."
Isaiah 11:6 -- "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together, and a little child shall lead them."
Tobit 6:1-2 -- "The young man went out and the angel went with him; and the dog came out with him and went along with them."
Psalm 24:1 -- "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell there in."
Proverbs 12:10 -- "Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel."
Psalm 95:5 -- "The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land."
Job 12:7-10 -- "But ask the beasts, and they will teach you, the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind."
Psalm 36:6 -- "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals."
Isaiah 11:6 -- "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together, and a little child shall lead them."
Tobit 6:1-2 -- "The young man went out and the angel went with him; and the dog came out with him and went along with them."
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