Internetspirations

A Thanksgiving Poem

2011-11-16T09:50:00.000-08:00

I love Thanksgiving dinner
With a turkey brown and plump
I love the mashed potatoes
and gravy without lumps
I love cranberry jelly
and the green bean casserole
I love the muffins, cornbread stuffin',
and Granny's cinnamon rolls.
We pile the food upon our plates
and polish off the pile
We eat and eat each savory treat
like food's going out of style.
And then when it seems over
the battle nearly won
They bring in two desserts to choose
twixt pumpkin or pecan.
Each year it just gets better
but the thing that just astounds:
It seems unfair that just one meal
can add on 15 pounds!

How to Grow Old

2011-10-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

"When Joshua had grown old, the LORD said to him, 'You are now very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over.' " -Joshua 13:1

In his new book, Nearing Home: Life, Faith, and Finishing Well, the Reverend Billy Graham says "All my life I've been taught how to die, but no one ever taught me how to grow old." Graham, who turns 93 in November, continues to write, even as he deals with symptoms similar to Parkinson's Disease and macular degeneration.

Graham has been a great inspiration for many of us, inspiring us to turn our hearts toward salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. His personable, direct manner of speaking coupled with a genuine humility made him one of the most powerful evangelical voices of the 20th century, inspiring countless Christians and ministers over the decades.

I appreciated Graham's message, and continue to hold him in highest respect. There are certain people who, by their single witness, can transcend the sorrowful stories of those who fell from grace publicly, and cast a shadow against the faith they professed. Last night I was reminded of how much influence a single person can have against an overwhelming world when I read an old African proverb, roughly translated to “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito.”

A single voice can indeed make an enormous difference in the world, and Graham has provided a steady stream of thoughts to lead us to salvation. We all should be so inspirational.

Lately, I have become increasingly aware of this thing called aging. My mother, who is the same age as Graham, lies in a skilled nursing facility as she tries to recover from a hip injury two weeks ago. Her mental state is deteriorating, suffering not only from dementia, but the debilitating fears and low self-esteem she has held throughout her life. More than once she has expressed to me her fear of death, and I have tried to help her understand that her faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for her to have everlasting life. I fear that her mental state is too far beyond her ability to understand, but I pray that she can somehow find comfort.

My daughter too, jokes that now she is in her thirties, she has noticed a tendency to go to bed at more reasonable hours than the late nights she used to embrace just ten years ago. She pokes fun at herself saying, well, gee, it's getting close to nine o'clock... time to head home so I can get to bed by ten... what is happening to me!?"

And this year, I turned sixty, though many who know me think I continue to act far more immaturely than a person my age should! Still, my life is quieter now, and more concerned with quiet nights with my wife than going out for good times. I adamantly fight against acting old, and perhaps in doing so, appear more foolish than I should.

Yes, growing old gracefully is an art that few people know, and even fewer can teach. As we age, our world has become more complex, with technology quickly outpacing our ability to keep up, and world situations that constantly remind us of our mortality. Gradually we, as a society, are forfeiting our dignity, sovereignty, and self-reliance for a state that provides more intrusion, less reward for accomplishment, and dependent on institutions that have doubtful futures.

We are living longer, but we are unable to sustain our longer life spans. We risk less, and fear more.

Learning how to age is going to be a challenge, and so I got to thinking: why don't we share together ways to survive. I want you to write to me, and tell me ways you are dealing with aging. I will continue to write about it, and give you ideas from my own experience. If it helps you, I am glad. I can tell you now, it will help me. I have a couple of thoughts, and I hope to share them with you over the next few weeks.

For now, I encourage you to enjoy life, and take every opportunity to savor the blessings of today. Revel in them, and examine them in depth. Consider why those things please you, inspire you, and touch your heart. Remember that at whatever age you are, God is not finished with you, neither in this life, or the next. His interest in you is infinite, and wants you to experience life to the fullest.

Hang tough, dear readers, and be content. Even as we age, God had plans for us. We have large lands ahead for us.

Max Has Moved On

2011-02-12T13:28:00.000-08:00

"For the soul of every living thing is in the hand of God." -Job 12:10

Perhaps by now you have heard that my dear boy, Max, died. He was almost 16, which is pretty old for a Yorkshire Terrier. Max had a condition that caused the outside of his brain to put pressure on the rest, and he gradually lost his ability to walk or maintain his balance. He remained sweet, even during the most difficult times, though you could tell he was frustrated. Not being able to stand while eating made him lose his appetite.
Monday, January 31, I awoke to hear him crying with every breath. I went downstairs to find Gwen holding him, tears streaming down her face. We knew his time had come. I sat with him for the next hour and a half as we waited for the Vet's office to open up. The entire office was in tears, knowing the old gentleman with the long tongue was done with life in this world.
Max had a following on Internetspirations. I learned a lot from walking him.
There was something different about him from any other dog I've been blessed to own. Max had a thoughtful outlook. He was never a disciplinary problem. He just seemed... to know things, like when you were hurting, or who needed love.
Max had compassion. He found our parakeet, Chico, abandoned at a mall, and called my attention to him. When Priscilla had an operation, he brought her a chew toy. He knew Gwen had never been close with dogs, so he chose her as his favorite lap. He had a sense of humor and the way things ought to be done. He loved car rides (he could say the word "go"). He was, in short, a wise, silent gentleman, who's only vice was a constant desire for a good butt scratch.
He had a long life, and will live always in our memories. I look forward to seeing him again. Do dogs go to heaven? I am certain of it. The essence of life is in all of God's creation, and I take the Bible at its word when it says that every soul is in God's hand.
Billy Graham once said "I think God will have prepared everything for our perfect happiness. If it takes my dog being there [in Heaven], I believe he'll be there."
One thing is certain: if ever a dog deserved to go to heaven, it would be Max.
So I expect to see him first as I leave this life, ambling toward me with his tongue hanging out, his tail wagging vigorously. My own, personal escort into eternity. That boy was an angel on earth. I can't imagine heaven any other way.

What happened to the Crystal Cathedral?

2010-12-22T12:20:00.000-08:00

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” -Matthew 10:27

It is sad when you see events unfold just like you knew they would, and you had no power to stop them. Over the last couple of years, events at the Crystal Cathedral have led to an embarrassing scandal, divided family, and bankruptcy.

As a member of the congregation many years ago, it was my honor and joy to be a volunteer to what I considered an important, quality ministry. Though I always felt that Dr. Robert H. Schuller was too much of a showman (and frankly, not a very good listener), I thought he had a unique message that needed to be heard. For too long, people approached their relationship with God in defeat. Schuller's approach was, once upon a time, to put the accent more on the notion that we now can stand forgiven of our shortcomings, and find joy in the knowledge that God's love is ours. With that knowledge, we can be confident, move forward, and find ways around us to (in his words) "put strong wings on weary hearts."

I loved that message, and spent countless hours at what was first Garden Grove Community Church, and then the Crystal Cathedral. Eventually, I even went to work for them.

I was aware that Schuller wanted his son to take the place over when he "retired," and while Robert A. Schuller wasn't quite up to his dad's charismatic abilities, I thought he could improve in time. He seemed to come off more like one of the Beach Boys instead of a minister. Whenever he would lead the congregation in a scripture reading, I half expected him to say "Now let us turn to our Bibles and read from the gospel of Brian Wilson."

But I also began to see the writing on the wall. An elitist core grew around Dr. Bob, especially after an accident in the Netherlands that gave him a severe conk on the head. Staff members with great talents were passed over for promotions or placed in positions below new ones created for other family members. The Consistory, the guiding board of church policy was made up entirely of "yes" men, and no one was allowed to offer valid objections to any of Schuller senior's ideas. A cemetery? No problem. A bell tower? Check. Buy up all the neighboring homes so we can have a parking lot? Bye bye community. One by one, every request was allowed, and the ailing senior pastor continued to expand the property unchecked.

Meanwhile, the children began their reign of terror. Son-in-law Paul Dunn took over the Glories of Christmas and Easter as if he had any idea how to produce a quality stage production. He drove them into the ground, with awful staging, awkward scripts, and Vegas show tricks. My favorite was the firework arrow shot that had some very weak connection that I never quite understood.

Sheila took over the Academy, without any academic experience or qualifications. Jeanne took over publishing for the Hour of Power, and eventually programming. Gretchen went on staff booking music talent. Even Carol, whom I had the most respect for because she and her husband held out from joining in on the nepotism, finally came on board.

I probably wasn't the finest employee. My family fell apart while I was there, and I blamed many at the cathedral for helping it do so. I was also new to communications, and wasn't the best speller in those days before spell checkers. One day, while on vacation with my girls, I got a call from Joyce in my office warning me that inside man Fred Southard was going through my office looking for reasons to cut my budget. When I returned, I found out he had suceeded: I was jobless.

Over the years, hundreds of people who would have been considered an asset to any well managed organization were driven away, or died from the stress. Ole Nordberg, Ken Almeida, Bain Fischer. Great financial guys with great faith. Pianist and Orchestral conductor/arranger Johnnie Carl lost his sanity that ended up driving him to suicide during an argument with one of the Schuller girls.

The saddest for me was the loss of my friend, Don Fontana, who was one of the greatest church choral leaders of all time. The problem? Well, true that Don had a disorder that slowly took away his mind, but I believe the constant barrage of orders he received from family members far less qualified exacerbated his condition. Even after leaving the Cathedral, Don was still able to give years of outstanding service to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. The quality of choral music "under glass" was never quite the same.

"Possibility thinking" was Schuller's hallmark, and it served him well as he built the church. At the time he never took a salary: his only income was from book sales. But as greed, mismanagement, and self-anointed leadership replaced the once dynamic and now ailing senior pastor, improprieties began to abound. First class airfares and even SST tickets were all rationalized as "important for ministry," and housing allowances for everyone became the family norm.

Any objections were met with tantrums and power struggles, and when Robert A. tried to steer the church back to a more bible-centered message, he was thrown to the wolves. To object to anything was considered "negative thinking," and therefore not worth heeding.

At times, I feel a bit like I played a role in a Dickens novel. Amid all the discord, hurt, and obstacles this drama has played, I can say that I came out pretty well. Disappointed in the actions of those who should have led the development of a congregations faith, I walked away hurt, but eventually stronger in faith.

Still, my heart aches for those who were my friends who have gone away hurt, jaded and with diminished faith in God. God had nothing to do with this. It was solely the acts of men and women who put their own wants before those of His.

I am sorry for the family that still remains hardened against their true calling. It is a story that has played thousands and thousands of times throughout history. Good people, who have convinced themselves that they are entitled, and abuse their responsibilities.

Schuller was constantly reminding us that when God is behind an idea, nothing is impossible. Mountains can move. That is so true. But here is a mountain made from the stones of hardened hearts. Overcoming that mountain may well be the most difficult challenge anyone can ever face. "But with God... "

I wish we could laugh more.

2010-04-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge? Proverbs 1: 21

Few things get people riled up like politics and religion. Mix the two, and it is like pouring gasoline on an oil fire. It can certainly be argued that most of the misery we experience on earth can be attributed to some mix of religious zealousness, political infighting, and greed.
I laughed when I read in the newspaper this morning that political fighting in Ukraine's parliament is so bad, they throw eggs at opposition members, and even brawl in the aisle. Those who favor ties with Russia are at odds with those who are trying to bring the country into a more pro-western Europe, and it is serious business, for sure. But the photograph is what made me laugh. It showed one of the politicians being pelted with eggs while another one held an open umbrella to protect himself from a chicken embryo. I mean, they actually bring umbrellas into the chamber for just such emergencies?
There are all kinds of people hating someone: Christians, Muslims, Jews, Africans Americans, Gays, Mexicans, Rich People, Corporations, Film makers, movie stars, and Miley Cyrus. Poor Miley. It sucks to be a nice person who has success.
I tend to look at causes differently, and sometimes, I think it rubs my friends the wrong way. For example, I am perfectly fine with the State of California recognizing gay marriages. Some of my friends though, see that as a conflict with my faith. I do not. I just don't see what business any government has in anyone's marriage.
Marriage certainly isn't exclusively the property of any particular faith. It has been around longer than any of the existing faiths.
Still, I get a little irritated at the people who defend gay marriage rights (Now remember, I am all for it)! The other day I was invited to join a group on Facebook called "I hate Cancer." Well, yeah! Duh! Sign me up! I was pleased to see that in the months it has been in existence, it has over 600,000 members. That's good, right?
Except there is also a group online that is pro gay marriage, and guess what? They have over 2 million supporters... and most people joined that cause in less than a week!
Now, I don't know about you, but I find this incredibly stupid. I mean seriously: which is more important? Getting rid of a multi-faced disease that kills millions annually, or allowing gays to get married? I hope you agree with me that getting rid of cancer really should be a higher priority!
I just wish things were different. I wish we had a smart, strong government that taxed very little, and poked its nose in our business a lot less. I wish everyone could have good health care. I wish I liked to exercise. I wish everyone who wanted to get in your face with some issue would just shut up, and everyone was treated with dignity and respect. I wish we could all laugh more.
Don't you?

Captain BO

2010-02-24T15:57:00.001-08:00

My eyes are ever on the LORD,for only he will release my feet from the snare.
Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart have multiplied;free me from my anguish.
Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins.
See how my enemies have increased and how fiercely they hate me!
Guard my life and rescue me;let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
-Psalm 25:15-20

This week brings about a major event for Michael Jackson fans at Disneyland. They are bringing back the old Captain EO 3D film in Tomorrowland. You can find it here:

Captain EO

I hadn't seen it since it left Disneyland about twenty years ago. What I saw just blew me away. No, it wasn't seeing MJ perform in his unique style. It was something maybe just a little surprising...

Captain EO is almost the perfect analogy of the rise of Barack Obama.

Hear me out on this. In the movie, Captain EO is the leader of a bumbling crew, who have been given the assignment of locating a beacon on a dark, mysterious world, a world desperately in need of "The Gift."

EO is young, handsome, energetic, and very well spoken. He is charismatic as he accidentally stumbles on the beacon, and leads his charges into the darkness beyond, intent on bringing "Change."

Once into the fray, he immediately manages to transform the masses into a lockstep dance behind him. He sings a song about "Change." Of course, he is never very specific about what that change should look like, but in this fantasy, even the Republicans are behind him, depicted as the bumbling elephant creature, Hooter, who nearly blows everything, but ends up fixing the machinery at the very last minute.

What really drove it home to me was the design on EO's T-shirt. They even make it glow in the film. It is a rainbow, not too unlike the Obama logo!

The happy little film ends with EO saving the dark world, where everything is lovely, and the "Change" he brought creates a little utopian world.

Captain EO was created long before Barack Obama even dreamed of being president... probably even being a politician. But I love it when little coincidences end up many years after-the-fact.

Yet I am not so sure it is an astounding coincidence. From our youth, all throughout the 20th and 21st century, voters have embraced the ideals of the progressive movement, depicted in countless examples of Pop culture, and have allowed more and more individual freedom to be taken away.

It is no wonder so many bought into the "change" mantra, and voted for Obama. Obama's campaign tapped into territory as comforting as a fond memory, without having to define a single term.

I don't mean to get all "conspiracy theory" on you. But there certainly has been a consistent message from our media over the ages. It is a message that more government is better, the influence of church needs to be reduced, and anyone who disagrees is mean-spirited, evil, and suspect.

It is interesting that now there are those sounding the alarm. And of course, they are being depicted as hateful people, crazy, and awful. But time will tell.

Those of us who trust only in the Lord will be vindicated. If not in this world, then certainly in the next.

Redemption

2010-02-22T16:56:00.000-08:00

"Answer me, O Lord, for Thy lovingkindness is good; According to the greatness of Thy cmpassion, turn to me,And do not hide Thy face from Thy servant, For I am in distress; answer me quickly.Oh draw near to my soull and redeem it; Ransom me because of my enemies." -Psalm 69: 16-18

How effective is it to tell the truth, if people do not understand what you are saying? How can the truth help us, if we are unfamiliar with the concept?
I think one of the words people in this time have difficulty understanding is the word "redeem." It sounds old. It sounds... well, churchy. I can think of very few uses of this word outside of a church atmosphere.

When I was a kid, we'd save our S & H green stamps, and then "redeemed" them at the local S&H store. Or when you take a coupon to the grocery for 50¢ off of dog food, you give it to the checker and "redeem" it. What has any of this got to do with God?

Redemption is the act or process of buying something, especially to buy or win it back. Essentially, when we took green stamps, we traded the value of our cash for a product, say gasoline, and something extra: the stamps. We converted a portion of our cash value to stamps. The same with our coupons. We trade cash for a subscription to the newspaper. The coupons found therein become items of barter, wherein we can regain a portion of the amount we spend on the newspaper. Some folks do it so well, they can buy a subscription to a newspaper several times over with what they save!

Essentially, what we are saying in our clumsy language, is that God has "repurchased" us through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the great Redeemer. That implies that we had value, but somehow lost our connection with God. Sin kept us out of His presence. Jesus then came, and through His sacrifice, redeemed himself, or took His own value, and traded it. The deal was that by his redemption, we are once again able to be in God's presence.

Now, as you look in Webster's you'll see additional definitions for the word "redeem." I find one particularly interesting: To "redeem" is to free from captivity by payment of a ransom, or to extricate from or help to overcome something detrimental. How accurate a description of Christ's redemption for us! We are freed from the captivity of sin by His redeeming life! It is an incredible concept!

Grapic Novels, Christian Pens

2009-12-11T12:40:00.000-08:00

Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth. - Proverbs, 16:13

It has been a busy month, and I apologize for not writing sooner. I am now a published author, and my life has become a whirlwind!

Well, not actually. Yes, I have a book out. It is called "Audits are Murder," and it is about an Auditor at a major Orange County university, who discovered his institution may be responsible for the death of a young high-school graduate. You can find it at most online bookstores like Amazon or Barnes and Noble, and if you buy one, I will be most grateful.

But it does give me the opportunity to reflect on the idea of fame. Certainly I am no Lawrence Block, Janet Evanovich or Robert Parker. Those guys have the genre of mysteries down pat. They seem to write with ease, and I am a great fan. Their works are usually on the New York Times best seller lists the moment they release a book. How cool would that be?

I am proud of my character, Dan Martyn. He is handsome, he is smart, he is funny, and he has a "let's see this thing through" attitude that makes him, I think, a good protagonist.

In an age when we encounter people from all walks of life thrust into the limelite, not everyone gets there for good reasons. Sports figures fall from grace with infidelities and the Hollywood film industry keeps cranking out stars that are sometimes not very nice people. The music industry is even worse. Being bad is now almost a requirement for a recording artist.

I have thought about this a great deal, because it is tempting to write a book using a irreprehensible anti-hero character to lead the reader on a journey of discovery. But being a Christian, I feel a responsiblity to keep my writing family friendly. Still, I wonder if I could make something a little more gritty, and still lead the reader to a Salvation type closing.

I am certain there are some who would freak out if I did. I have already heard some negative reaction because one of my characters that will appear in future novels is a professional escort, and sometimes, I forsee a need to be a little more graphic in my prose. I have already crossed the language barrier. People use dirty words, regardless of your own choices, and to make the conversation realistic, I have had to spice it up a bit.

The thing is, when it comes to Christian literature, you can either softball it, and make something totally unbelieveable, or tell it as life truly is, and incur rejection from believers.

But if you really want the truth, nothing would model what I should do better than the Bible. It has virtually every vice known to man in it. Sometimes, the descriptions get pretty graphic too, such as in the Song of Solomon.

So I write, and my goal is to be real, while holding morality, love, and acting as Christ would have us act as the major themes. I hope the end results will be viewed positively.

Give 'em a Break

2009-11-04T17:25:00.000-08:00

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7

It has come home to me a lot lately, that my life has lived under a shadow of negativity. Not that I go around expecting the worst. I don't. But I know what the rest of the world keeps trying to tell me, and the message is all to often bad.

I remember distinctly back when I was a child, and people lived in fear of nuclear war. I grew up in the 50's, a scant 5 years after the close of WWII, but to my young mind, it was as ancient a history as the civil war, or the discovery of America. To a young boy, who had no reference point other than what he could remember in his short span of days, history was history. So I didn't understand the terror of Hiroshima, the Nazi's, or any other historical event.

In fifth grade, my friend tried to convince me that the race riots in Los Angeles were going to soon hit my hometown in Whittier. An enormous earthquake, "The Big One," would soon hit my state. In High School, we were all convinced that by 2000, the entire world population would be starving on this late, great planet earth.

My dear mother was, and is still, the greatest worrier of all time. She is constantly imagining different personal disasters. Plane crashes. Car crashes. She raised me in fear, and I confess, I still struggle with the spectre of some of those fears.

Some things terrible did come to pass. A Presidential assasination. Auto accidents. A Divorce. Terrorists flying planes into buildings. But none of these things were fortold to me. In short, the negative news I was constantly hearing seldom, if ever, came to pass, and all or most of the negatives that did occur, came without warning.

Today, we also live in fear. Terrorism is the big boogeyman. Politicians and scientists constantly tell us that environmental disasters and diseases will soon befall us all. You need it; they announce a fear to have about it. Money. Food safety. Etc.

Now, don't get me wrong. I do not advocate ignoring all these warnings. On the contrary. The warnings are legitimate. We do need to ensure our water supply remains healthy. We need to develop vaccines. We need to figure out how to provide health care to folks who can't afford it, and ensure that bad guys don't profit unfairly. Criminals need to be prosecuted, illegal drugs need to disappear, and we should be able to love each other freely, without someone making an issue of it.

But.

We also need to wise up, take heart, and appreciate the lives we have. Yeah. I know. Some of you have had some very awful things happen to you. But if you think about it, you have an awful lot of good things too.

I am simply proposing that we spend a little time seeking out things to appreciate. We have a society where we gain from the efforts of others. We pool our abilities. Take supermarkets: In the USA, few of us have to go out, milk the cows, feed the chickens, plow the fields, grind the grain, pick the lettuce, pluck the chickens, grind up the sausage, bake the bread, and do all the millions of things that get done on our behalf, and are brought together in a grocery store.

Certainly some of us have less glorious or fulfilling jobs than others. Some don't even have jobs. Technically, I guess I fall in that category.

But by God's rich grace, I know I have been blessed.

And by God's rich grace, I can tell you this: you have too.

Here is another one for you to consider. Virtually every religion in the world will tell you that in order to live a fulfilled life (often with a reward upon death), you must do certain things, uphold certain rules, practice specific rituals to find the ultimate satisfaction.

And every single one of them falls short, for one main reason. We are human. We cannot do it. Some time or another, we will fail attaining perfection.

So I am happy to announce something that my 58 years have taught me. I don't need to do it. Nope. I don't.

In spite of the decades of all the negativity falling down around me, I was fortunate to learn fairly early in my life that I could avoid all the religiosity, if I just chose to do one thing.

One simple thing. I have been told, through several good sources, that God offers a deal. Since I choose to believe in God, that had my interest.

In the Bible, he lays down the contract, with a rather detailed history lesson mixed in: He says, "These were the rules. They are impossible to keep. So I am going to become one of you. And I am going to do the impossible. I am going to personally come to you as the one person who can keep the rules. It is going to piss you off. You will be so mad, you will kill him. But even then, he is going to live. You cannot keep this good man down. He will rise from the dead. The deal is this: if you choose to believe it, You will be set free. Free of religion. Free of dogmas. Free of the bondage that sin keeps you in. If you believe in me, and believe in Him, and take the deal... that is all you have to do. I will take care of the rest, and transform you."

Oh, I hear you. You say, Bob, you are an idiot. There are lots of people who profess to be Christians, and are a big pain in the ass. I want no part of them or their hypocrisy.

Yeah. I hear your negativity. And I take note of it.

But for all the bad ones you point out to me, who spend their days being religious and condemning people, I can show you two who simply love. There are now, and throughout history, millions and millions of people who have taken the deal, and have been transformed into loving, caring, amazing people.

Millions. Millions of people out there, trying new stuff, trying to share the deal with others.

Give 'em a break.

Taking a Step in Faith

2009-10-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

"And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them; then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into my side; and be not faithless, but believing.
And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou has seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." - John 21:26-29

I learned a lesson one summer day when I rode a ski lift in Vail Colorado.

We stepped up to the loading dock, and the attendant quickly advised us to stand lined-up on the white line painted on the cement floor. Behind us, the Vista Bahn chair circled about, and aimed for the three of us standing on the platform.

In one move, the ski-lift chair lift scooped us off the ground and into the seats. The attendant then quickly lowered the restraining bar and footrests, and we were on our way up the mountain. As our chair dangled silently on the cable, we marveled at the wide panorama that opened up before us, showing the Vail valley and the surrounding mountains.

As we delicately hung there on the ski lift, we were having a great time, true, but an even more amazing thing had taken place: Without thinking, we put our faith in hundreds of people we had never met before. We put our bodies, our very lives in the trust of the men and women who designed, built, and maintained that ski lift.

We do this every day. We drive cars over bridges, step onto airplanes, ride elevators and microwave our popcorn without much thought to the risks we could be taking. In fact, if we really thought about it, and decided to no longer trust another human designed item, our lives would quickly be thrown into major turmoil.

Immediate paranoia! Is the tap water safe? Was my house made to withstand a tremor?
All of these things depend on our trust in people we have never met; never seen. We do it easily, on a minute by minute basis. Why then, do so many of us have trouble trusting God?

Lots of folks refuse to take that step of faith to trust God, because they have never seen Him. But I never met Henry Ford either, and I drive one of his cars. We are told seeing is believing, and that is true, we tend to accept and believe the things we have witnessed. Still, there is more to be said for those who believe without seeing, and who embrace God, even if they can't lay eyes on Him.

Faith in the unseen is the most remarkable, most wonderful thing about our relationship with God. It turns the equation around. We believe, and then we see. Once we open our hearts to God, then He reveals Himself to us in remarkable, quiet ways.

Take that step onto the platform. Have faith in the unseen. Allow Him to scoop you up and lift you to the mountaintop!

Saps At Sea

2009-10-15T10:40:00.001-07:00

"I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,
so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. " - Philippians 1:23-26

When I was a kid, I was pretty sick most of the time, and so I found myself at home quite a bit. During the 50's and 60's daytime television was a lot different than today; although there were versions of Oprah even back then (Anyone remember Virginia Graham?). In addition to the soap operas and game shows, many television stations ran old movies, and so I developed this tremendous appreciation for Laurel and Hardy. To me, they were the best.

One movie I especially remember is when Ollie is just about a hair away from having a nervous breakdown, because his life in the city is filled with noise. Car horns blare at him all day long, and so, to get away from it all, Oliver takes a little boat trip with his friend Stan. But before they shove off, a criminal stows away on their boat, and when they get out to sea, he takes them hostage.

After several attempts to get free, to no avail, Stan gets this great idea. He finds a mouthblown foghorn on board, and starts blowing it! Well, of course, this drives his friend over the edge, and Ollie tears apart the boat: sending the crook flying and leaving them afloat on debris at sea. Well, at least the two saps are safe from the bad guy... even if they are afloat, and far from being rescued.

Most of us live on the edge, in one way or another. We fill our lives with activities and projects that keep us apart from the peace found in God. Sometimes, without our consent, new developments work their way in our lives that threatens that tenuous balance we have acheived with our full schedules. When a loved one becomes sick, or your expectations aren't met, you often find your self ready to "tear the boat apart." Sometimes we do strike out, and cause just as much damage as Ollie did to his boat, leaving you adrift in the rubble.

We need to realize, before it gets that far, that we've strayed too far, taken on too much, and have let too much interfere with our relationship with God. Fed up with your job? Convinced you no longer love your husband? Frantic, wondering if you will ever get to the bottom of your "to do" list? Take a new look at your position. Realize that you've let other things get in the way of your relationship with God.

Reorient your priorities. Focus on carrying out Christ's work... which includes following through on all those other commitments you've made. When you shift your focus, and remember that in Christ, all the things are possible, you can reclaim peace.

Have Faith, You Will Find Comfort!

2009-10-05T16:29:00.001-07:00

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. —Philippians 1:18-20

Sometimes I realize just how far I am from being a sales genius.

I always get these ideas on how to make money. Christmas Ornaments. Books. Calendars. Even film projects.

I just have no idea how to go about getting them in front of people who want to buy my product.

Maybe I am just deluding myself.

Take my Christmas ornament idea. About four years ago, I had to leave my comfy, benefits-loaded job at UCI for some personal reasons. So I got this idea. I had become aware of how people in Ukraine were great glass artisans, and that they made beautiful, hand-painted ornaments. I thought if I could import them, people would recognize the beauty of them, and knock themselves over to buy them.

Sort of the Christopher Radko story, all over again, only I thought I would add a charitable perk to it: a portion of the sale of each ornament would go to help medical and child charities in Ukraine. How could I miss?

Well, they arrived, and they are beautiful, for sure. And they have been sitting in my garage for three years now. I couldn't sell a heater to an eskimo. Even my family wouldn't buy them.

I have tried to sell things on eBay. But again, no hits. Oh, but I have had the honor of paying eBay their fees. lots and lots of them.

I just wrote a book. A couple, as a matter of fact. 366 Days of Christmas. It is a calendar... a book of days. It is filled with lots of fun, Christmas-related facts. Everyone loves Christmas, yes?

Evidently no.

Makes me want to cry. They are on eBay now. More fees. No sales. And other sites, like Amazon, charge even more. I am now wary of trying, because, well, what if they don't sell? Am I doomed to just pay fees for no reason?

One of the biggest frustrations I have come to realize is that when people are down, the structure of society is really built against the little guy. I recall once when a young girl I knew was going through a rough patch, and she was trying to do the right thing. She opened a checking account with a well known bank, so she could pay her bills. One day, she overdrew her checking account (the account had a fee), but she was unaware of it. So they started charging more fees.

Lots of fees.

Eventually, she caught wind of it, and so she paid the fees. It took an entire paycheck.

But they continued to charge more fees. The check she paid to pay off the fees had to be held until it cleared. So, she had the money, but they still charged the fees.

I never understand banks. I mean, it used to be that if you were near becoming overdrawn, they would call you, and let you know. They are too busy for that these days. So they take people, who obviously have no money... and charge them more.
It is a neverending pit that they cannot seem to escape.

The things of this world definitely conspire to break our hearts, our spirits. It is only through the love of friends, family, and God, that we find solace. I am lucky. I have a great support system.

And the world does its best to defeat that too. Everywhere you look these days, people are quick to reject God, and the people who choose to believe. They rail against religion, calling it a vile thing, the cause of wars and violence. And I have to admit, there is a lot of that throughout history.

But yet, I know, I am certain, that God is real, and that he cares for me. He has delivered me through countless sorrows, and has brought me solutions for the times my heart has been broken, through maliciousness, misunderstanding, arrogance, unfaithfulness, failure, and just plain cruelty of others. The deliverance from sorrow in my life is real, thanks to Him, and something the rest of the world can never understand.

So, take heart, reader of faith! If you are caught in failure or heartbreak, know that God still cares for you, and will, without question, provide you eventual comfort. Just hang in there. Have faith, and you will find comfort!

Laus Deo!

2009-09-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

"Unless the Lord builds the house its builders labor in vain.. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain." Psalm 127: 1

My friend, Lois Ware, sent me this email. I thought you would enjoy it:

"One detail that is never mentioned is that in Washington , D..C. there can never be a building of greater height than the Washington Monument . With all the uproar about removing the ten commandments, etc., this is worth a moment or two of your time. I was not aware of this amazing historical information..

On the aluminum cap, atop the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. , are displayed two words: Laus Deo.

No one can see these words. In fact, most visitors to the monument are totally unaware they are even there and for that matter, probably couldn't care less.

Once you know Laus Deo's history , you will want to share this with everyone you know. These words have been there for many years; they are 555 feet, 5.125 inches high, perched atop the monument, facing skyward to the Father of our nation, overlooking the 69 square miles which comprise the District of Columbia, capital of the United States of America.

Laus Deo! Two seemingly insignificant, unnoticed words.. Out of sight and, one might think, out of mind, but very meaningfully placed at the highest point over what is the most powerful city in the most successful nation in the world.

So, what do those two words, in Latin, composed of just four syllables and only seven letters, possibly mean? Very simply, they say " Praise be to God!"

Though construction of this giant obelisk began in 1848, when James Polk was President of the United States , it was not until 1888 that the monument was inaugurated and opened to the public. It took twenty-five years to finally cap the memorial with a tribute to the Father of our nation, Laus Deo. "Praise be to God!"

From atop this magnificent granite and marble structure, visitors may take in the beautiful panoramic view of the city with its division into four major segments. From that vantage point, one can also easily see the original plan of the designer, Pierre Charles l'Enfant..a perfect cross imposed upon the landscape, with the White House to the north. The Jefferson Memorial is to the south, the Capitol to the east and the Lincoln Memorial to the west.

A cross you ask? Why a cross? What about separation of church and state? Yes, a cross; separation of church and state was not, is not, in the Constitution. So, read on.. How interesting and, no doubt, intended to carry a profound meaning for those who bother to notice.

Praise be to God! Within the monument itself are 898 steps and 50 landings. As one climbs the steps and pauses at the landings the memorial stones share a message.......
On the 12th Landing is a prayer offered by the City of Baltimore;
On the 20th is a memorial presented by some Chinese Christians;
On the 24th a presentation made by Sunday School children from New York and Philadelphia quoting Proverbs 10:7, Luke 18:16 and Proverbs 22:6.. Praise be to God!

When the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was laid on July 4th, 1848, deposited within it were many items including the Holy Bible presented by the Bible Society. Praise be to God! Such was the discipline, the moral direction, and the spiritual mood given by the founder and first President of our unique democracy "One Nation, Under God"

I am awed by Washington 's prayer for America Have you ever read it? Well, now is your unique opportunity, so read on!

"Almighty God; We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

Laus Deo!"

We CAN Fix Health Care

2009-09-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

"As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow me," he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.
While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." - Matthew 9:9-13

I think we can all agree that currently, there are lots of people who are adversly affected by health-care in its current status. The question isn't "Should Washington do something about it?" but "How should they do something about it?"
And that gets to the difference between how people fundamentally view the role of government, and society ... as a whole. Should the playing field be leveled for everyone, or should there be some semblence of reward for those who work harder, do more, and take responsibility.
Every single government run entitiy is inefficient, expensive, and relies on revenue generated from the tax base. The more you add to that tax base, the more you lean toward penalizing the hard workers. And certainly some of those upper income people have been taking an inordinately unfair advantage over the people who work for them.
But, not ...all. And instead of leveling the playing field, where everyone gets a chance, you simply end up leveling the reward box, stripping the incentive from people to strive to do better.
The best way is to take care of the problems, not replace the entire system with an enormous buracracy rife with opportunity for government waste and error.
Malpractice reform is a start. Good for Bush for starting it, better for Obama to enact it. Tort reform is a must.
A change in the way drug companies are paid incentives for development. Currently, they can discover something, charge an obscene amount for several years before turning it over to other companies to make... for LOTS less. Better... Read More to give them a longer, but far less royalty for development, and release it to everyone to make sooner, letting the market decide.
We need to get rid of the way we can't shop around for services. We are locked into insurance HMO's that only let their preferred providers keep it in house, under great mystery. If I need an apendectomy, I should be able to take my diagnosis, and shop around for the best price.
There is a whole bunch of things like this that can be done, and it will lower the cost of medicine, enabling access to a lot more people.
Get rid of pre-existing condition clauses. If you are in a group system, the inability to offer coverage to people we want to hire because they are already working somewhere getting insurance, but if they leave it they are screwed, gives business a real disadvantage in hiring.
Finally, yes, some... a few, will need Government assistance. Of course they do. We need to have places where people can get that medicine. Universities are a very good place to offer those services.
So lets not be dumb about the way we fix health care, and also not let emotion guide every decision. For every colloquial sob story that is out there, there are equally awful stories from people trapped in socialized medicine.
Let's stop shouting, being political, emotional, and close-minded, and put all of our heads together to fix this thing.

Conservative. Sigh.

2009-09-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent." Daniel 6:4

Wouldn't THAT be nice. Someone in government who is trustworthy, and neither corrupt nor negligent.

I don't know what to think about politics anymore.

I have always thought of myself as politically conservative, with a bit of a green tint to it. I am not a fan of large government, class envy, or high taxes, but I am also concerned about the environment, human rights, corporate responsibility and a strong, well educated military. I hate to see discrimination, but I also hate to see specialized interest groups demand that everyone else accept the changes they want or else be labled racist, facist, or whatever-phobic.

These days, there are idiots out there who paint pictures of our President with a Hitler moustache, and rudely shout out to interrupt him when he speaks. The media is aghast at such behavior, but I also recall his predecessor being portrayed in political cartoons as a monkey, published for all to see in the same newspapers. The double standard is just grevious to me.

It also seems like everyone in Washington is having an affair.

And Corporate America, thank you for turning the public against you with obscene salaries, and environmentally unfriendly policies. I really want to support a smaller government, but time and time again, you take the greedy route, and make it nearly impossible for the little guy to succeed.

Sigh.

The trouble is, no matter which side of the aisle you support, whether you are labor or management, Christian or not, gay or straight, whatever your age, people you count on are possibly going to do something nuts, cruel, greedy or just plain embarassing. I wish it were otherwise, but it just happens.

Often, it is just a small portion of a group you are counting on that ends up disappointing you, but it reflects on all, and you just want to go hide. Either that, or get angry.

I don't think either option is the best choice. We all still need to stand up for what we believe. Maybe we will convince, most likely, we will not. But if your voice is added to the mix, it just may push your cause over the top.

So, keep plugging away. I like our President. He seems like a nice guy. Smart too. But I don't like his positions. That doesn't make me racist. It just makes me... me.

Christian Pickup Lines.

2009-09-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

"So do not worry, saying, `What shall we eat?' or `What shall we drink?' or `What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:31-33

My daughter found the following list of Christian Single pick-up lines:

1. I would like to pray with you. (I've heard that one before!)
2. You know Jesus? Me too! (Gag me.)
3. God told me to come talk to you. (Look out for these guys... danger!)
4. Do you need help carrying your Bible? It looks heavy.
5. Oh, are you cold? Ecclesiastes 4:11. (Ummmm... naughty!!!!)
6. Did it hurt when you fell from Heaven? (Very Cutesy)
7. I am here for you. (Oh brother!)
8. The word says, "Give drink to these who are thirsty, and feed the hungry." How about dinner?
9. You don't have an accountability partner? Me neither! (Ooooooo)
10. You want to come over and watch the 10 Commandments tonight?
11. Is it a sin that you stole my heart?
12. (The Promisekeepers approach) Would you happen to know a Christian woman that I could love with all my heart and wait on hand and foot?
13. Have you ever tried praying at a drive-in movie before?
14. (This one is my favorite) Excuse me... I believe one of your ribs belongs to me.
15. Yeah, I predicted David over Goliath.

Being a Christian puts additional criteria on the menu when you are in the dating scene. I remember when I became single again, I was terrified of it. Every single date turned out to be a disaster. Oh, I liked my dates alright... I just look back at me as being the single most obvious dweeb to ever make a phone call.

I finally stopped trying, and instead put my concentrated efforts toward developing the relationship I had neglected for so long: My relationship with Christ. If ever a promise was kept, this one was one for sure: "Seek ye first, the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." It was then that

Gwen and I just started being together, and it was then my ability to have a relationship with a woman developed.

So, are you caught at a point in your life where you've tried every line in the book? Are you thinking it's time you moved on, and got into a new relationship? Then my advice to you is.... don't try. If you are recently divorced, or separated, the very very last thing you need right now is to involve someone else in your dirty laundry. Avoid the rebound relationships, and instead try to actually find a comfortable spot to be with Christ.

Looking for real love? What better love is there than the love of Jesus Christ?

Take it from me, until you understand Him better, you'll never really understand the nature of love. Need companionship? Get a dog! Want a person in your life? Then develop something worth offering. Flesh out your Christian self.

Chance Conversations with... God?

2009-09-02T23:43:00.000-07:00

"Behold I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me." -Revelation 3:20

Have you ever said something to someone and their response was something like; "You're the second person to say that to me. God (or something) must be trying to tell me something."

Now I don't want to discount the possibility that God really may try to be communicating a much needed idea to someone through others. It could happen. But my experience has shown that to communicate a message God doesn't really need to rely on chance conversations. Maybe things like that happen on television or in the movies, but in practical application we could really get off on some strange tangents looking for truth in incidental occurances.

We've been had by a superstitious culture that, in stumbling around to find meaning, will grasp at virtually any circumstance and build a basis of faith upon it, no matter how far fetched or coincidental that basis may be. Did you ever read a fortune cookie that probably was just as good advice for the person next to you as for you?

Broadcaster Gary Owens once poked fun at the astrological world by making up a series of humorous forcasts that pointed out that very thing. He'd say things like "Scorpios, be careful! Wednesday is a very bad day to be hit by a truck." Is there a good day for that?

Listen. God has said all He needs to say in His Word. Get to know it! If we're basing our perceptions of truth on something other than that we're going to be sorely disappointed in life.

Is your perception of life based on a solid truth, or a haphazard collection of coincidences? Earnestly desire to find the real truth to existence. It's not as elusive as our culture would have us believe. In fact, it's knocking at our door.

All We Like Sheep?

2009-09-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

"I will surely gather all of you, O Jacob; I will surely bring together the remnant of Israel. I will bring them together like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture; the place will throng with people."
Micah 2:11-13

Newspapers are dying.

Newspapers are dying because as the medium changed, they didn't know how to make it work for them. When the internet boomed, they stuffed their ears with newsprint, refusing to adapt. It is an old medium, printed on paper, and "by god," they say, "it can only be that way."

So they chose the route that doomed so many industries before them, and around them. The automotive industry refused to respond to changes in the market, and ended up mindlessly producing gas-guzzling clunkers only the government was willing to buy. The airline industry saw no other choice but to pack 'em in small spaces, as American butts got wider, and charging everyone a different price.

And they continue their unchanging ways.

When faced with a new venue like the internet, most newspapers, accustomed to running an advertising business augemented by news, suddenly didn't know what their product was. They started to give away the news stories free. What they should have done is banded together and figured out how to turn the internet into an opportunity, instead of an electronic version of the same old stuff.

And now, I look at the Church. Falling prey to pop culture, it started to create superstar ministers, instead of genuine, God-inspired teachers. It has forgotten what it's product is.

Nowadays, you say "Church," and most of society will start to deride Christianity as a bunch of conservative, closed-minded, hateful people gathered together like sheep. Why? Because we have let our faith be cheapened into bad, dated televangelism, and supported it with our money.

I read the salaries of the head people at TBN last week, and was absolutely sickened by what these people were raking in. I don't mind people producing something good and doing well, but when they work selfishly to destroy the reputation of my faith, and take millions of dollars doing it, I am washed over in nausea.

I don't know about you, but I don't feel like a sheep. I don't consider myself hateful to anyone. I prefer to think of myself as open, caring, compassionate, and loving. I am not flawless. I have done some dumb stuff... and that stuff is the standard by which I get measured by some. But on the whole, I try to live to help people, and write to inspire and motivate.

The Bible frequently refers to the faithful as sheep. Sheep go astray. They go their own way, and follow anything, if left to their own devices. They often make mistakes. But when they are called to be mindful by a good shepherd, and led in they way they should go, their lives become much better. No longer snared by wolves, snagged by thorns, or distracted by people who want a lamb for dinner, they can live full lives giving wool and grazing peacefully.

The church, and by the church, I mean us, need to become mindful. We need to stop supporting the bad, and start speaking up. We need to quit singling out certain types of sin, while celebrating others in our own lives. We need to be humbled in moral character, instead of "proud of our morality." We need to be smart, and kick out the bums. Quit following those that want to use us for their own desires.

We need to speak up for Christ daily, as loving, caring people. We need to be mindful, not mindless sheep.

Crazy, Like an Emperor

2009-08-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

"If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!" -Psalms 66:18-20

(Originally posted July 29, 2009)

Ever hear of the first and only Emperor of the United States? If you live in the San Francisco area, you probably have. During the 1800's, an odd character lived who declared himself "Norton I, Emperor of the United States and Defender of Mexico."

Joshua Abraham Norton was actually a failed businessman who fell into hard times when he tried to corner the rice market in California. He bought a shipload of rice, unaware that the next day, a second ship would arrive from Peru. He left San Francisco in disgrace. Up to that point, there are no records of any odd behavior.

But a couple of years later, Norton returned, and in letters written to the local newspapers, declared himself to be "Emperor of these United States," and "ordered" representatives from all states to meet the following February in San Francisco. Of course, no one came, but thus began Norton's "reign."

The fascinating thing is that the city humored Norton. From businesses to city hall, Norton was given a great deal of deference. Norton issued his own bank notes, which many establishments in the city honored. He continually issued decrees to absolve Congress, ordering the army to take it by force, and other outlandish ideas.

Norton had a kinder side too. In fact, in many ways, he contributed some good ideas, such as a bridge to be built between Oakland and the city, and that a giant Christmas tree should be installed at Union Square for the children, a practice that is continued today. Norton was given a box seat at the Opera House, and whenever he attended, everyone would rise. He declared that anyone referring to the city as "Frisco" would be charged with a misdemeanor, and charged $25. Many paid the fine.

The 1800's were tumultuous times in the city, with race riots between the whites and the Chinese. Emperor Norton decided one night to do something about it personally. As rioters came forward toward a group of Chinese immigrants, Norton placed himself inbetween them, an repeated the Lord's Prayer. The rioters left without incident.

When he died, he was penniless. He collapsed in front of Old St. Mary's Church. But civic leaders purchased a coffin befitting an Emperor, and Norton was mourned not by a few, but several thousand. Reports vary between 10 and 30 thousand people came out for his funeral.

Every once in a while, you hear someone have an idea, and someone else says to them, "That's crazy." Then the first guy goes off, implements the idea, and it turns out he wasn't so crazy after all. For Norton, it is hard to say just how delusional he was. History has no record of any official evaluation. But he may have fully believed himself to be Emperor, because he actually risked his life that night of the riot, to demonstrate the power of prayer.

People often think religious people are delusional as well. And sure. Some are. But then there are the events that defy explanation if you ignore the possibility that God truly does answer prayer. I have known people who were sick... deathly sick, who were healed by prayer. Circumstances deemed insuperable by any other means, I have seen overcome through prayer. Amazing things. And who would have ever thought that a riot could be turned away by a crazy man, claiming to be Emperor of the United States, praying the Lord's Prayer?You'd have to be crazy to believe it, right? Crazy like an Emperor.

(Special thanks to Jon Van Nadelberg for his help writing this entry!)

Cultural References

2009-08-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

In reviving Internetspirations, I have gone back to some of the old pieces I have written in the past. Sometimes, I surprise myself, to see how revealing I had been regarding my personal life. It is all there; my work, my family, my divorce, my dark periods, finding the love of my life and marrying her, our joys, disappointments, and most (not all) of our life changing events.

Each of the entries are accompanied by a scripture; something I chose to include because I felt it was pertinent to the subject matter. But sometimes, as I read it now, I fail to get the connection!

It is interesting how the human mind works. When I write, it seems to be a natural flowing of my thoughts. I just open the valve, and out it comes. It seems to me that if it is in my head, it would remain the same, and flow out in similar fashion over the years; consistent with what was written before.

But instead, as I read it, I am surprised. I discover that I recounted events I no longer recall, commented on subjects with different viewpoints, and wrote about lessons learned that apparently I didn't learn very well!

I can tell you this; I definitely go through periods where I am greatly influenced by certain pop-culture events. I can recall periods of my life where every memory is shaded by the "current thing." As much as I would like to think that I am not so greatly influenced by the world, it is clear that I definitely am.

I wonder if everyone has that same experience, and to what extent. Certainly people think in different ways. You hear a lot about "type A" personalities opposed to "type B," or the differences between men and women. But in order for us to be able to communicate at all, we have to share a certain amount of common knowledge. For example, most Americans know who our current President is, and right now, just about everyone knows what you are referring to if you use the phrase "American Idol."

Whatever is current is shared as a culture-wide reference point. As time goes on, that shared knowledge fades, or becomes confused in cultural memory. For example, the phrase "Where's the beef?!" used to be a single-source reference to a fast-food advertisement. Then politicians started to use the phrase, giving us two references. Now, over time, it has pretty much faded from cultural awareness. If I said "Where's the beef!?" to someone, meaning "What's the point," most younger people would look at me like I was insane, uncertain about what I meant.

I guess that is why the Bible tells us to get above it all, and not conform to this world. That collection of writings still manages to communicate pretty well, in spite of centuries of existence. Opponents have tried twisting its words throughout history, yet in spite of their efforts, the message of God's personal love still comes through.

Oh sure; even it isn't totally free of the culture that produced it. The world was a far more agrarian culture then, so there are lots of farm analogies. Technology seems to rule today. Back then, countries were ruled by Kings. Now, governments tend to lean toward multiple ruling bodies. And the concept of making sacrifices to gods as scapegoats for human error is really hard to understand today. "Crazy old superstitions," they say.

So I write, and I admit: I use pop-cultural references, slang terms, and "things of this world." But I do so because it is those things that communicate better with people than "Churchspeak."
I am always most serious when I tell you that I enjoy hearing from you, and I am glad this new layout allows for you to post your responses. Please write, and tell us your thoughts.

Wheel of Fortune

2009-08-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed-- in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 1 Corinthians 15:51-55

I was on Wheel of Fortune about 23 years ago. It was back when you chose prizes instead of taking cash home. I solved "Walt Disney (person), "Christmas Shopping (event)", but asked for the wrong letter and missed solving "Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (phrase)." The hyphens threw me off. Too bad too, because I had accumulated all kinds of money (about $8,000), and would have solved the final puzzle, too ("Rest in Peace"). I still have some pretty china (Bernadaud), a chiming clock, and they gave me a blender and case of Wild Rice-A-Roni. Let me tell you, it may be the San Francisco Treat, but after 36 boxes, it seems more like Alcatraz.

It could have been worse. I at least got something for my efforts. My wife knows a guy who was on Jeopardy and blew a $10,000 lead at the end because he didn't phrase his final Jeopardy answer as a question (He even had the right answer). I met the guy about thirteen years ago... he was still kicking himself. His downward spiral continued. He became an attorney. Ha!

Spin or solve; answer with a question. Spin the wheel, and take a chance. Life, like TV game shows, is an iffy proposition. Each day is a new spin; each event is a new letter revealed. Play by the rules, and maybe you'll win. Try to look like you're having fun, no matter what happens. It's not as easy as it looks. Some people seem to just win by accident. Other times, the nicest folks lose. Trying to figure it out can drive you crazy.

By becoming one of us, Jesus knew how frustrating human life can be. He understands how we are thrown into circumstances beyond our control. He knows how none of it seems to make sense or how it can be so unfair. Look at Him! What did he do to deserve death by torture? But he also had an important concept for us to grasp: that beyond this game of life, there is more: something far grander than we can even imagine.

Through life in Christ, we can, if you'll pardon the expression, tweek the outcome. We can overcome the eventuality of death. Can't you hear it in that scripture? It's almost said with a laugh! Death, where is your sting? You can change the outcome now, ahead of the game. You can determine the outcome before the final spin.

Walking

2009-08-26T11:20:00.000-07:00

Observe the commands of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and revering him." -Deuteronomy 8:6

OK. this is serious. I need exercise.

So last week, I decided to join my wife, who began walking a year ago. Well, "join" isn't exactly the word, because I can't keep up with her. She can walk for miles. One weekend, she and my daughter, Cara, walked from our house down to Newport Back Bay, which I think is something like 15-18 miles.

I would have a hard time doing that right now.

Last week, I thought my back was going to kill me. This week it is better. This morning, Gwen took off early on her usual route, and then Max, our Nordstrom Terrier, and I drove up to Peet's coffee, at the shopping center we talked about yesterday. That's about a mile away. Max and I waited for Gwen to get there. I read the paper. Max ate Goldfish crackers. Good times.

When Gwen arrived, we had a glass of iced tea, and then she drove Max home. I was on my own. So I took the long walk home, which is just short of three miles. Took me 40 minutes.

I have always been a bicycle rider, but I have to say, this walking thing has great advantages. I notice more things, just as when I started riding my bike, I noticed more than I did when driving.

I also actually feel like I have gotten some exercise. When I am on the bike, let's face it. Half of the time, I am just rolling downhill. A 5 mile ride essentially yeilds 2.5 miles of actual pedalling. And one leg stroke there gets you a lot farther than one leg stroke on the heel-toe express.

It is interesting that the Bible was written in the pre-transportation days, before we had cars and bicycles and busses. Well, OK, maybe there were chariots, but for the most part, everyone got around by foot. Or leading an ass.

Mine was clearly dragging behind me today, but as I walked, it occurred to me how often we Christians talk about our relationship with God as "a walk." We "walk" in His ways, observing and learning from him. Just as I noticed more in the world around me during my walk this morning, when we walk with God, day after day, we learn more about Him as well.

Walking takes energy, daily observation, and provides plenty of time for introspection. We slow down, and have time to reflect on more than just our daily work and commitments. And interestingly enough, God designed us to have bodies that benefit from the effort.

A walk in the Lord works the same way, I think. We reflect on His desires, more than our own. We put aside the daily mundane stuff to understand something far greater than ourselves. And we become better people, when we walk in and with Him.

Feeling Welcome

2009-08-25T15:52:00.000-07:00

"I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them." -Hosea 11:4

We moved into our neighborhood ten years ago. At the time, we were the second or third family in the entire tract. We were so anxious to move into our house (mostly because we had to move out of our old place), that we spent the first three days without any gas service. In December, a cold shower is a real wake-up call! The city we live in is quickly moving from a rural Orange County bedroom community to a major metropolis.

New high rises are springing up on the old cattle ranch, and it is really changing the personality of the region. Some say it is not for the better. So far, it really has not affected me negatively. Since I came home to work about three years ago, my biggest commute problem is stepping over my dog, Max, to get to my desk.

But it really has changed a lot. Reader alert: I am about to sound like an old fart: "Why, I remember a time, not that long ago, when this entire area was one big orange grove." It's true though. seems like only yesterday I was driving my daughter to the field that used to be across the highway here to see a big hot-air balloon festival launch.

Now, to the northeast of us, is a street that has become a major thoroughfare, as it divides the city south of it from the upscale home development about to be built north of the highway. We are very close: about three large blocks away from this street. Far enough to not hear street noise, and close enough to walk. Just down that street stands a new shopping plaza. Standing next to some newly-built apartments, right now there are avacado trees to the east of it, and hills to the north.

Large eucalyptus wind rows line the streets, the remains of where the fruit groves used to be. The center is called Orchard Hills, and, frankly, for my money, it is pretty neat. The buildings are walled with stone, and the place has a Napa, California feel to it. It even will have a wine store, in addition to the current offerings: A supermarket, two banks, a pharmacy, and a day spa. And restaraunts.

Max likes going to the coffee house, to sit outside, sharing a bran muffin. I am not a big coffee drinker, but on these cold winter mornings, it seems to be the thing to drink. So, Orchard Hills has become our new place. Another restaraunt there is starting to recognize us. Again, outdoor seats, a trendy bar, wine, steak salads and sandwiches; even full dinners. Tonight, as they seated us, we made the comment: We are starting to make this new place our own. Cue the Cheer's music.

We spend so much of our lives building our places. We live in those places for a while. Some of us remain frequenting the same habits for years. The people there become like family. We experience comfort when we go there. Yet, time and circumstances change. Places we once knew well, now seem far away from us. We still hold them as important, and visit them maybe (if it is possible)... but our lives move on.

The eighteenth century theologian, John Fawcett, wrote these lyrics to a now familiar hymn:"Before our Father's throne we pour our ardent prayers; our fears, our hopes, our aims are one, our comforts and our cares. We share each other's woes, our mutual burdens bear; and often for each other flows the sympathizing tear. When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain; but we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again."

I dearly hope that people who used to read Internetspirations daily will find it again, and return. We met some really nice people before. And to newcomers: welcome. Hopefully, you will come to know us, like what you read, and share your thoughts via email. Building a community is nothing to be taken lightly. We all seek places that speak to our hearts. That's true fellowship, to use a churchy word. I hope you feel welcome here.

Internetspirations, Rebooted

2009-08-22T04:01:00.000-07:00

"I remembered you, O God, and I groaned; I mused, and my spirit grew faint." Psalm 77

Welcome, dear readers.

Internetspirations has gone through a lot; just like most of us, I suppose. This whole thing started out as a sub-directory of my profile back when I worked for the University of California, Irvine. Back then, I was just wanting to find a way to get my faith out there, and be one of the first forays for Christ into the internet. It really was different, back then.

It was 1995, and there was not a whole lot of anything out there. So we began posting little inspirational things online, and it grew with the internet. It was fortunate to ride the momentum of the medium, and in short order, I had lots of people all over the world reading my small little devotional blog.

In fact, it was before the word blog even existed.

That was then, this is now. It was easy to write when my world had order. I felt snug and smug. Safe in a simple life, feeling like I had paid enough dues to be heard. Then when trouble came, I quickly found out how hard this writing thing can be, especially when you are trying to portray just one attitude toward life; cheery Christianity. I was doing my readers a disservice by not giving them anything new.

It doesn't work well, and it really became difficult when life got more complex.

What I did discover though, was that Internetspirations was better when I was more honest, and less churchy. When you write to certain audiences, you tend to take the safe route, and most Christian writing tended to be shallow, saccharin, and safe. But "churchspeak" wasn't cutting it. So when I turned the tables, and spoke like most people talked, it was more real, and communicated better.

So that is what we are going to do here. I may use words, post ideas, express feelings, and make observations that may be outside the box of regular Christian writing. You may get offended once in a while. Trust me, it is ok. I have been offended once or twice myself, and have lived to tell about it.

What is new, is now you can write back, and post your feelings as well, and maybe together, we can discover new things about faith.

So welcome, dear readers, from all walks of life.