Front Porch Mood Swings

Recovery Works Video

2012-02-14T09:47:00.000-06:00

Here's a video I made for The Bridge. Let me know what you think.

Noise

2012-02-03T13:22:00.000-06:00

We all have things in our lives thatare distractions. Noise, in my view, is not limited to annoyingsounds or crappy music. Noise is anything that takes up your time ordiverts your attention. What is the noise in your life?

I haven't written in a while, not hereanyway, largely due to other demands on my time. As the new yearbegan, I started thinking about the noise in my life. Sometimes,distractions can be so ingrained in your routine that you no longersee them as a cause for concern. This IS a cause for concern.

You cannot dismiss negative things inyour life or write them off as part of your routine. I know this is abit late for a resolution article but it is never the wrong time totake a look at the noise in your life.

• Negative people

• Negative thoughts

• Addictions (these can be anything)

• Bad habits

• Stress

• Anger

• Resentment

I've listed a few things that can benoise in your life. If there is anything that takes up too much ofyour time for little to no reward or if there is anything that placesyou in a bad mood; take a moment to evaluate why it is in your life.I am not going to write an article promising to go on a diet orexercise more because when (not if) I fail to do those things, thatwill cause me to get distracted from my real needs. I am going totake a moment every day and focus on the noise in my life and let goof things that serve no purpose.

"Martha, Martha," the Lordanswered, "you are worried and upset about many things, butonly one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it willnot be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42

10 Questions with Bama Hockey Assistant Coach David Noble

2012-01-16T17:45:00.000-06:00

I got to do an interview about Alabama Hockey. If you are interested in that, read up! Let me know what you think.

10 Questions with Bama Hockey Assistant Coach David Noble

It's Okay to Expect a Miracle | Christianity Today | A Magazine of Evangelical Conviction

2011-12-11T11:51:00.000-06:00

It's Okay to Expect a Miracle | Christianity Today | A Magazine of Evangelical Conviction

Have you ever had a problem believing stories about God acting in a direct way in someone's life. It is hard to grasp in a rational world but do we miss the miracles going on around us because we have dismissed their possibility?

Baptist Press - Americans' view of Southern Baptists studied - News with a Christian Perspective

2011-12-07T10:28:00.000-06:00

Baptist Press - Americans' view of Southern Baptists studied - News with a Christian Perspective

What are your thoughts? Does denomination matter? If you found out a church was Baptist, Methodist, etc. would you change your mind about attending? Comment below and let me know your thoughts.

New CD From A Friend

2011-08-27T19:00:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago, I got an email from a work friend announcing the release of his new cd on iTunes. I was surprised to learn that they were a musician outside of work. Even more than that, I was happy to listen and find out that the music is very good.

If you are into Christian rock, you should check out Scott Parker's new release, Speechless. It is only available on iTunes at the moment, but that is where I get most of my music these days anyway. Scott wrote all of the songs and plays guitar as well. It's only $4.95. You won't be disappointed if you like this genre.

The Sermon on the Mount

2011-08-06T22:36:00.006-05:00

This is the lesson I wrote for my small group for August 7, 2011. They are a great group of people and they tolerate my perpetual typos and the way we inevitably wander off course in our discussions. They are family and I look forward to seeing them each week.

Introduction
The Sermon on the Mount (Mark 5-7) is the longest collection of the teachings of Jesus in the Bible. The sermon takes place early in the public ministry of Jesus. Some scholars compare it to the sermon on the plain (Luke 6:17-40). Some suggest that it is the same sermon because it is at about the same point in the narrative. Others suggest that Jesus spoke on this theme often.

The Beatitudes
The word Beatitude comes from the Greek word “beatus” which means happy, fortunate or blissful. It is often translated as “blessed.” In this section of the sermon, Jesus describes the current condition and the resulting spiritual reward. There are 8 “blessings” in the sermon. In Luke, there are 4 blessings and 4 woes.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven"
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted"
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth"
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled"
"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy"
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God"
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God"
"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven"

Discussion
What does it mean to be “poor in spirit?” If a person is physically poor, they know specifically what they need (money, food, clothing, a job, etc). Therefore, if a person is spiritually poor, it does not mean that they lack faith it means they understand they need God to provide for them.

What does it mean when Jesus says the “meek” shall inherit the earth? Many people confuse meek to mean poor, but it means humble, submissive, gentle. Discuss how this can relate to the lesson of turning the other cheek, being slow to anger or quick to forgive.

After the last beatitude, Jesus speaks directly to his followers and warns “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Did you notice that he included the conditional phrase “because of me?” You should have noticed since I put it in bold. Do you ever feel persecuted for your faith?

The Parables – Salt and Light
After the Beatitudes, Jesus speaks a few brief parables to illustrate his message. Parables can be short sayings or somewhat longer stories with a moral message. They are not literal, but illustrate a greater point.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”

How is a Christian life like salt?

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

How can we be a light unto the world without being in conflict with what Jesus says later in the sermon? Matthew 6:1 says “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”

The Rest of the Story
The Sermon contains many other lessons after the beatitudes. These all expounded on the teachings of the Law being taught in the temple. Jesus elevates the Law to a higher standard. He tells us to avoid anger, lust, divorce, swearing oaths, seeking revenge and more.

These lessons of The Sermon on the Mount focus on love, grace, and forgiveness. Jesus speaks also on The Law and says that it shall not disappear. Clearly, there are many things in the law that we do not do. Read Matthew 5:17-20. What do you think he means when he says “accomplished?” Read Galatians 3:23 and see if that helps you understand the relationship between Law and Grace.

Playing Church
The Pharisees often made a public display of their religion. Jesus warns against such things in The Sermon on the Mount.

Secret Giving
"When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Secret Prayer
"When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Secret Fasting
"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Discuss ways we can give to others without making a public display of our deeds. What can we do for the kingdom?

The Sermon on the Mount can take on deeper meaning every time you study it. I cannot do it justice here and we could never discuss it long enough. Read it again and again. Make it a regular stopping point in your study. You won't regret it.

Let Every Day Be Independence Day

2011-07-04T08:03:00.008-05:00

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

People celebrate freedom on the 4th of July. Some people spend time grilling or swimming and others look forward to fireworks. No matter how you celebrate freedom, take a moment today to give thanks for the true source of your freedom — Jesus.

Just as the founding fathers of our nation wrote a declaration of independence from the tyranny of a king who had lost his sense of justice, Christ lived a declaration of independence from a different set of laws. Not everyone was willing to change in either instance. Resistance to change is human.

Many people live in bondage today. Around the world, humans suffer from hunger, slavery (yes, it still exists), oppression and fear. It is our duty to help our neighbors in need, but we have to understand the freedom we have been given. Our founding fathers stood up against an oppressive government, but our real freedom is in spirit.

The “yoke of slavery” mentioned in Galatians is the old testament law—the great stumbling block that ushered in grace. However, Jesus brought a greater freedom for us today than could have been imagined by the early evangelists. He gave us freedom from ourselves, from our pasts, from the burden of our own destructive thoughts.

The Bible tells us that God created good and evil. Without both we could not have free will. Freedom is not absolute. We are still bound by a different set of laws. If you don't believe that, try exercising your free will to jump out of a window and see how quickly you find yourself in bondage to the law of gravity. You see, every choice has a resulting reward or consequence.

Consider the child who wanders away from his mother in the grocery store. He has a choice: stand next to the buggy or wander off. We have the freedom to wander off but, like that child, we soon find ourselves a prisoner of our despair. The lost are never free.

What are you choosing today in terms of your spiritual freedom?

If you are binding yourself to your past because of guilt, shame, anger, resentment, or dejection; let it go. You are free. If you are spending time on things that turn your focus away from your purpose, let those things go. Let go of that person you are trying to fix. Let go of that limitation you have built up in your mind. Let go of that friend or relative who persists in telling you that you are not good enough—that you don't live up to their standard. Jesus thought you were good enough to die for.

Happy Independence Day every day.

What Are The Dry Bones In Your Life? -- Christian Blogs | Everyday Christian

2010-12-30T09:55:00.000-06:00

What Are The Dry Bones In Your Life? -- Christian Blogs | Everyday Christian

Nice article on New Year's and how to change your life for the better.

Amazing Grace with Steven Tyler

2010-10-06T09:10:00.000-05:00

I just thought this was worth sharing.

Business Profiles – Alabama Hosting

2010-09-29T13:11:00.000-05:00

Business Profiles – Alabama Hosting

This is an interview I did with an online magazine in Birmingham. I hope you will enjoy it.

Terry

Book on the Way

2010-04-09T12:02:00.003-05:00

As most of my friends know, I wanted to be a writer and a chef. This is, of course, why I went to school and studied to work in public relations and graphic design. It doesn't make sense to me either. I know that now.

However, I do have some news.

I have been working on a book for a while now (actually several) and one of them is being published this fall provided I meet my writing goals.

It will be available for purchase on Amazon and can be ordered in your local book stores as well. I will also have a site up for it soon and will be tweeting like a teen as time gets closer.

Quote of the Week

2009-12-03T12:20:00.003-06:00

This quote comes from one of my favorite satire writers from my college days, Evelyn Waugh. He was a British novelist of the mid 20th century who was, arguably, most famous for Brideshead Revisited.

I've read a lot about forgiveness in the last few years because of my work with Celebrate Recovery. I've also written a lot about staying positive, letting go of your resentments, and things like that. In that context, this quote just fits, I think.

When we argue for our limitations, we get to keep them.

Socialism is Sin

2009-10-08T09:49:00.007-05:00

I wrote an article a couple of years ago about whether Jesus would be a Republican or a Democrat. I got a few comments about that, even though I ended the article with no conclusion one way or the other. In truth, Jesus never expressed much interest in politics other than saying our leaders are given their right to govern by God. I don't believe he has much regard for either party. Recently, I saw a question posted on a Christian web site which asked what Jesus would do regarding the health care debate. One reply to the question stated that Jesus was pretty much a socialist.

I have seen many people make that claim over the years, but I have to disagree. There is this utopian mindset among some on the left that socialism is this ideal thing where you help your fellow man and everyone is happy. Unfortunately, if you take a look at most nations who have ever attempted socialism — from the national socialists of Germany to the communists of the former Soviet Union, China, or Cuba — you find a rather repressive society. However, I am not trying to focus on the human rights aspect of socialism. This is a spiritual matter.

That being said, there are a lot of good Christians who may disagree with my premise that socialism is a sin.

Being Rich is not a sin
Many people point to the parable of Lazarus and the rich man as a sign that wealth is a sin. They may also point to the story of the young rich King who asked Christ how to be saved and the reply about it being easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich man to enter Heaven. These people forget a few things. Nowhere does it say that it is any easier for a poor man to enter the Kingdom. These are lessons about greed and personal sacrifice. You see, Jesus was all about personal commitment.

In the book of Matthew, Jesus says "when I was hungry, you fed me." That passage goes on longer, but the point can be made just with that one piece. Who does Jesus say fed him? The answer is YOU. In no translation of the Bible does he say "when I was hungry, you passed a law and took food from your neighbor and gave it to me." Everything in the gospel of Christ is about personal responsibility. I believe the Christian community is becoming complacent. You can be liberal and Christian without falling victim to the socialist lie. By the same token, you can be conservative and Christian without believing everyone else is going to hell. I don't believe either side of the political spectrum has cornered the market on good will. We should all want to help our fellow man, but passing the buck off to a secular government to do it for us is spiritual mediocrity.

God is your Source
God promises you abundance. If you have faith, he will meet your needs and overwhelm you with blessings. In that sense, socialism is a spiritual void. It is no accident that faith was shunned by political leaders in socialist nations and it is not coincidence that Marx, Lenin, and the creators of socialism were atheists. In a very real sense, in a socialistic society, government replaces faith as it tries to provide you with the bare necessities. It seeks to be your source, but government cannot provide you abundance.

The danger in this spiritual void is that socialism breeds a generation of people who do not rely on God as their source. Even more to the point, socialism nurtures the mentality of lack. It creates the notion that you do not deserve more, that you are not blessed, and that you cannot manifest abundance. There is a reason Cuba forbids its citizens from riding on boats. People don't risk their lives trying to escape from utopias.

Spreading the Lie
When people can no longer manifest abundance in their lives through faith, socialism creates a society with no middle class. When no middle class exists, the barrier between the rich and the poor is more pronounced. It is true that one of the side effects of abundance is greed. That was the lesson in the parables of Jesus regarding wealth. However, if you share your blessings, you need not be ashamed of them. On the other hand, the side effects of poverty are covetousness, envy, and jealousy. This is not to say that all poor people sin in this way because all people are equally sinful in one way or another. Socialism fertilizes these sinful thoughts about our fellow man because it teaches that anyone who has prosperity or abundance has somehow wronged those who do not. What's more, it seeks to take from the blessed and give to those who have not believed in their own blessings. Again, I am talking about the poor class under socialism, not all people in need. Jesus said the poor would always be among us. This is why we are to give cheerfully and without compulsion.

Capitalism versus Socialism
Capitalism has its own faults. Certainly, as people become financially comfortable they can become complacent or even, at worst, greedy. However, capitalism offers freedom and, as Ben Franklin said, a person who gives up freedom for security deserves neither. Socialism provides for some basic benefits, no doubt, but at what cost? We are spiritual people and we have to look at things from that point of view. In the Gospel of John, Jesus told the crowd that he was speaking of spiritual things and offering spiritual answers. Two sentences later, it says, most of the people stopped following him that day. People do not always consider the big picture when it comes to political decisions. In that verse, people were looking for immediate gratification - just like people today. They wanted someone to give them a sandwich, not someone to teach them to bake bread.

That being said, when you see someone who is hungry. Feed them. What you do to them, you do to Jesus. However, it is important that you feed them from your blessings. Don't push it off on your neighbor, society, or the government. Faith without works is dead faith. Also, when you feed the poor, don't do it for recognition or publicity - God knows your heart.

We cannot shirk our responsibilities as a community of faith and pass the buck along to government. Government cannot save souls. If we are seeking to provide health care for the poor, take the initiative. Volunteer at a clinic, give to a homeless shelter, lobby your congressman. There is nothing inherently wrong with looking for better solutions. The problem arises, in the faith perspective, when people place their faith in their fellow man. God is a God of abundance, as I keep saying. Socialism, aside from the utopian idealism, is a void where people no longer expect blessings or prosperity and that is truly a god of lack.

A long time ago, I spoke to a group of friends on this subject. What if we built health care cooperatives along the same model as credit unions? People in a given community or profession could band together and share (willingly) their supply by investing in a health care credit union to purchase insurance for all members. I am not the right person to work out the details, but I believe that is infinitely better than a system of envy and covetousness.

People of faith of all political persuasions -- listen. Your blessings already exist. We have to teach people to accept them. Jesus was apolitical for a reason. There can be a new way of doing things and a spiritual awakening in the world. This awakening is not the result of an election, legislation, or even a political leader. Acting on faith is personal.

Down to the Well

2009-08-27T22:06:00.010-05:00

One of the great challenges in reading the Bible is sifting through multiple layers of relevance in the gospels of Jesus. Recently, I was reflecting on the story of the woman at the well. Aside from the obvious illustration of Grace, the brief encounter has layers of meaning that can be understood only when we understand the culture in which it occurred.

Culturally, Jesus was not supposed to speak to a Samaritan woman because he was a Jew. Jesus, as we know, was not one to conform to social norms. So, when he asks her for water it catches her by surprise. This is when we see the depth of meaning in the story. Jesus offers her living water which we often equate with eternal life. However, it is much more. In Jewish tradition, baptism can be done two different ways - ritual washing of hands or immersion. A tevilah, or baptism, is a Jewish ritual cleansing. I have discussed the reasons for Jesus' baptism in an earlier article, so I won't go too deeply into that here. In many cleansing rituals, the person being baptized must be immersed in a stream or Mikvah (baptismal) with flowing water. The flowing water is called "living water" and is supposed to wash away the dirt. In the traditional sense, Jesus is offering to wash away her sins.

So, how does she react? At first, she does not appear to understand the significance. It is then that Jesus begins to reveal his identity to her. When he asks her to fetch her husband so that he can also accept "living water," she explains that she does not have a husband. Jesus explains that he knows this fact and elaborates that she has had five husbands and is currently living with a man out of wedlock. She begins to understand who he is. He confronts her shame as a way to reveal his power.

It is important to understand here that Jesus is not judging her or condemning her. She is not a Jew and is not under the Law - so preaching at her would only turn her away from his ultimate message. Even today, we see that it is easier to persuade people with gentle words than with condemnation. Many people have been driven to the gates of hell by well meaning Christians spewing fire and brimstone (condemnation and judgment) when Grace would have yielded a spiritual harvest. As Jesus reveals his identity to the woman, she begins to understand that "living water" is forgiveness.

On a personal level, we do not know much about the Samaritan woman but we can discern a few things. She'd had five husbands and was currently living with another man. She was not proud of her place in life. It is likely that she had been shunned by her family and, like many women today, found herself in a life that was not what she dreamed of as a young girl. This is revealed by the way she questions why Jesus would be speaking to her. She had resigned herself to a lower station in life and expected little good. It can also be assumed that her presence at the well at noon (the sixth hour in the Jewish view of counting time) was during the hottest part of the day - when she would have seen few people along the way - thus avoiding confrontation.

Jesus knew her shame, her pain, her guilt, and her issues with low esteem. He did not judge, but offered her redemption in his "living waters." He spoke to her in such a way that she confessed her wrongs to him. In doing so, he created a believer who evangelized to the rest of the village and many more were saved.

Too often, we follow the example of the Pharisees and apply legalism when we should offer Grace. The Old Testament is an amazing group of books detailing the path of humanity's relationship with God leading up to the arrival of Christ. However, we must remember that the Jews ASKED for the Law and it became their burden. Paul called it the tutor, but what was it teaching? Many would say that the Old Testament laws tell us how we MUST live. This is not true. The Old Testament laws were a tutor because they taught us that no one is righteous and no one is perfect.

Jesus came to complete the Law. With Grace came freedom — and that is a good thing.

But the Scripture has shut up all men under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. (Gal 3:22-25)

Legalism is a curse, of sorts. To be kept in custody is to be kept in prison. The Law served to bind people in their sins so that they would realize that they needed Grace and Faith and could not be righteous through their deeds. Thus, to bind yourself to the law is to bind yourself to sin. Keep that in mind the next time some well meaning person begins to quote legalism. We cannot pick and choose. If we choose the Law, we must follow all of it. In doing so, we reject Grace. The Bible also tells us to gently minister to someone when we see them stumble so that we don't also stumble.

Being a Christian means emulating Christ in our own lives. So, when we approach someone, it is ok to disagree but it is never acceptable to judge or condemn. We don't have the insight Jesus had. We cannot see the pain a person carries in their life, but if we ask and listen we might be able to ease their burden.

Teach Us To Pray

2009-04-05T15:32:00.002-05:00

When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, he gave us what we know as the Lord's Prayer. It is a simple, yet magnificent, example of what it means to pray. It is an affirmation in the truest sense. As Jesus says in the Gospel of Matthew, God already knows what you need before you ask him.

As I was trying to have some quiet time this past week, I could not clear my head of distractions. Instead, I tuned into a podcast on meditation and prayer. One comment the teacher made stuck with me more than any other. This lesson was about using anything you do as a means to prayer. I may have mentioned before, I pray while in my car. It is often the only time I am alone. While driving, I sometimes concentrate on things that I need to let go of, or I repeat simple affirmations - positive thoughts of thanks and appreciation.

Never meditate while driving. Keep your eyes open.

The comment that stuck with me was provocative - everything is prayer. As I started to think about this simple comment, a thought hit me. God knows our every thought and our heart's desire. If we dwell on something, we are lifting that thought up to God. When we have dwelled on our anger, our resentments, our thoughts of revenge - we have technically prayed for God to cause harm to others for our own satisfaction. What are we praying? I am glad that God's discernment is there to sift through our prayers.

You cannot grow spiritually if you are clinging to negative thoughts.

Some people go their entire lives bitter and resentful. Some cling to anger and loss. Some people, even those who claim to teach others about Christ, have no joy in their lives. What is the point of faith if you refuse joy?

If we are praying negative thoughts by dwelling on them or if we are not affirming our blessings daily, we are not growing. If you are angry at someone, and refuse to forgive them, you are not harming them. When you forgive someone, the forgiveness frees you. They are not bound to accept your words, but you are free from the burden of your own negative ways. Perhaps this is why Jesus tells us to pray FOR our enemies.

Blogging Vacations, Part 2

2009-04-05T14:30:00.004-05:00

I have to admit, for someone who started off the year planning to write more, I have failed miserably (so far). As I have written before, I have a love affair with coffee. I am starting to realize that my blogging could use a shot of espresso - some caffeine to get things going. I named this post "Blogging Vacation, Part 2". The completely unrelated Part 1 is posted on the Alabama Football blog, Alabama Gameday, where I am a guest slacker - I mean blogger. So, if you are into Alabama Football, check it out as well.

Lately, I have been consumed with work and I am presently working on launching a new company — details on that are coming very very soon. I have also been spending more time with family, friends, and resting. While I am not willing to give up any of that precious time, I do plan to spend more time in the coming weeks writing.

There are many exciting things going on right now. As I mentioned, I am stoked* about the new project, I am also stepping into uncomfortable territory at church — I have volunteered to lead a small group for new believers. It may or may not happen, but actually agreeing to do it (if needed) was a step that I took into the abyss.

I heard some interesting things on the radio this week. I am going to develop them into blog articles very soon. Sorry if my blog has turned into a "blahg" lately. I will try to do better.

* This is the first, and likely last, time I have used the term "stoked". Someone, keep me accountable on this.

From the Stacks

2009-02-14T22:46:00.006-06:00

I collect books. One of my favorite things is to stumble across a signed first edition, or an unusual book somewhere. So, I decided to take a book that I found interesting out of my stack nearby and share a bit about it with you (as if anyone is reading this).

Today, I grabbed the Heroin Diaries by Nikki Sixx - the guitarist and main songwriter for Motley Crue. Although this book is not signed, nor is it a first edition, it is interesting. My friend Tony, who has enlisted me to write for his blog, Alabama Gameday, has given me grief in more than one conversation about paying too much attention to rock lyrics and looking for evidence of spiritual meaning in secular songs.

Granted, Motley Crue doesn't have a cover version of Kumbaya in their recorded catalog so there is really nothing to decipher lyrically. It is my association with the Celebrate Recovery program at my church that made this book enticing. I should offer a warning. This book contains a lot of profanity and graphic detail. If you are the type of person who doesn't want to have to wash your eyeballs after reading profanity, or if you have a stick up your bottom, don't read this book.

That being said, the book wraps up with two very important lessons. The first lesson is to give away as much as you can. The other is to let go and let God. Both are spiritual lessons and the writer admits that his addiction has given him a spiritual awareness he never knew existed. As he said, his addiction gave him recovery and the ability to give back.

We have a saying in Celebrate Recovery, where I lead a men's general issue small group, that says that nobody ever seeks to recover until they have found the bottom of their despair. In every life, there is a rock bottom moment. In the case of Nikki Sixx, dropping dead and being revived by a passing pizza delivery guy was probably the bottom.

In the world of music, so many stories have a tragic ending. The roster of the rock and roll dead is long and likely to get longer. This story, at least, offers a bit of hope to the regular guy that recovery is a better way of life.

Five Things for February

2009-02-08T15:06:00.002-06:00

1. Today, we are taking the kids to feed the homeless. I am glad they want to do good things for others and I am thankful that our church supports this ministry.

2. So far, I have not done much toward accomplishing my goal of writing more this year. It is still early.

3. I am thankful for all of the old friends I have reconnected with lately.

4. A few weeks into the Obama administration, and the world hasn't ended. Also, not much of real substance has been accomplished either.

5. I am building a web design and hosting company. Contact me for more info.

Let Them Eat Cake

2009-01-21T14:12:00.002-06:00

I watched the inauguration yesterday. Along with the good cheer and good will that comes with such pomp and circumstance, I remain proud of our great country. In much of the world, leaders enter office and leave office with a struggle, a bullet, or a revolution. Certainly, our young nation has had its fair share of struggle, and a couple of revolutions, but our typical transition of power does not come from violence but with a handshake and an embrace.

Yesterday, amidst the media evangelizing, power once again transferred hands in the usual way. There were no choirs of Angels singing from on high, no doves descending from the clouds, and no burning bushes (not even a GW Bush). There was a ceremony, a parade, and lots of celebration. Rightfully so. The Republic still stands and the methods put in place by our founding fathers for a peaceful transition of power worked yet again.

However, something struck me as I looked back over the course of the day. In a year when banks are failing and the world economy is shaking with uncertainty, when campaign slogans were filled with financial fear and doom and gloom, our government threw the biggest inauguration party in history — with some estimates as high as 170 million dollars.

After the inauguration ceremony, our nation's leaders attended a lavish lunch in Statuary Hall. In that amazing building, Senator Diane Feinstein spoke eloquently about the tradition of the inaugural lunch which dates back to a modest fellowship meal hosted by President Eisenhower and Vice President Nixon in the 1950s. After the lunch, the Senator from the bankrupt state of California presented all of the politicians in attendance with gift bags filled with watches and other items to commemorate the event. History is filled with government elitists living the good life as their people prepare for revolt.

Nero, get your fiddle!

God bless President Obama. I didn't vote for him but I wish him well. He has his hands full with these people.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T11:00:00.009-06:00

It's hard to believe that another year has moved into history. Happy New Year to everyone. I hope 2009 brings you all the good you seek.

I have to say, 2008 was a strange year for me. Every year presents challenges and every year brings new joy and new lessons. As I have said many times, you learn much more from the difficulties you face. I believe this. It is this faith, this belief in grace, that gives me peace. It helps me get out of bed in the mornings.

Looking back, I grew a lot in 2008. With growth comes growing pains.

In January, I abandoned a bid to purchase the design company I helped create in 2005. Instead, I remained attached to it as General Manager and decided to look for other investments. In April, I found an interesting new venture that turned into a real adventure for me personally and professionally. Although it has been rough — and I have sunk a lot more money, emotion, and time into it than anticipated — 2009 could see that investment turn into profit. I hope and pray that it will for everyone involved.

In my own company, I have taken on more design work and I have developed a web hosting and design business that I plan to focus on in 2009. I hope to post some exciting info on this in the coming weeks.

In February, I had the worst anxiety/panic attack I have endured since the late 80s. It was foolish on my part because I learned that I was not taking good care of myself physically or spiritually. The two are connected. I didn't write about this attack but, as I look back on it, I did learn my limits.

In August, the new owners of the company met with me to tell me that they were eliminating my salary but wanted me to continue to work for them on a contract basis. I agreed, for the time being, but I was still focused on other investments and upon growing my own company. As I stepped back from them, and I do wish them all well, I learned another thing about myself. I have always treated my clients as if they were my own company. I take an interest in their business, their products, and their lives. Many of the people I worked with over the years approached me to offer me work. It validated my work ethic, and I am thankful for that lesson. It took a few months, but God was again faithful in his promise to prosper me and not harm me. I am glad He is God instead of me.

After Thanksgiving, I took my family to Disney and we had a great time. I blogged about it earlier if you are interested. My son now shares my roller coaster addiction and I could not be more proud.

We had a great Christmas filled with fellowship and family. It was good to see everyone and I look forward to keeping up with friends and family a bit better in 2009.

I am not a big fan of new year's resolutions. I believe that every day is a resolution. When you get up in the morning, you make a choice to stay on course or wander off course. No insincere, but well intentioned, statement on January 1 means anything if the discipline is not there every other day. However, there are a few things I hope to do in 2009 that are worthy of listing here.

• I hope to show my kids more of the world and more of the good in it.
• I hope to focus on helping others more than I have.
• I hope to get in better shape physically, financially, and mentally.

So, in short, I need to pray more, laugh more, exercise more, eat better, sleep better and take a deep breath and relax now and then. That's it. No half-hearted resolutions. I do intend to write more, read more, and have more quiet time.

Don't let the world determine who you are. It doesn't matter who will be President, what the stock market thinks, or what you do to earn a living (as long as it is legal and doesn't compromise your morals). Hope and change comes from you, not from catch phrases and sound bites. Be thankful for what you have been given. Choose not to participate in a bad economy or a negative environment in your personal life. With the faith of a mustard seed, as the parable goes.

As C. S. Lewis once said: "You do not have a soul, you are a soul. You have a body." You are here to grow and learn. Savor the good times and pay attention to the bad times. In short, BE GOOD.

Another Day, Another Theology Quiz

2008-12-21T13:27:00.003-06:00

So, I found another theology quiz while taking a break from a design job. This one is more precise than the other one. It's interesting how some of these rankings have turned around as I have grown over the last few years. Let me know how you do. Here are my results:

You Scored as Evangelical Holiness/Wesleyan

You are an evangelical in the Wesleyan tradition. You believe that God's grace enables you to choose to believe in him, even though you yourself are totally depraved. The gift of the Holy Spirit gives you assurance of your salvation, and he also enables you to live the life of obedience to which God has called us. You are influenced heavly by John Wesley and the Methodists.

Evangelical Holiness/Wesleyan

79%

Emergent/Postmodern

71%

Neo orthodox

54%

Classical Liberal

54%

Charismatic/Pentecostal

50%

Modern Liberal

46%

Reformed Evangelical

46%

Roman Catholic

39%

Fundamentalist

36%

Would it Kill You?

2008-12-21T12:52:00.003-06:00

Hey, if you read this regularly (yeah, right) or if this is your first time here, do me a favor. Click on an ad while you are here.

When I was in college, there was a local bar owner who (I've heard) would make announcements over the speakers to say things like "drink up, my kids are having to drink powdered milk" or "buy another round, I have an alimony payment due in ten minutes".

Well, things are not that bad here, but I would appreciate a click or two.

Belief-O-Matic

2008-12-17T09:11:00.001-06:00

I took the belief-o-matic quiz over at Beliefnet.com again to see how it would judge me based on my answers to their questions. Although I find the questions a bit convoluted in the sense that there are no answers to some questions that exactly reflect my thoughts, I found the results interesting.

1. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (100%)
2. Orthodox Quaker (96%)
3. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (88%)
4. Eastern Orthodox (77%)
5. Roman Catholic (77%)

As you can see, my top 5 results are rather mixed. The first one and the third one are overlapping for me because I do attend a very untraditional congregation in a mainline protestant church. However, my beliefs are my own and can be liberal or conservative based on the question asked.

I find the 4th and 5th results confusing but, at least, they are Christian churches — Beliefnet encompasses most world faiths. I have many Catholic friends and have been to many services at Catholic churches, however I have never considered myself a good candidate for conversion for several reasons. Perhaps that explains the wide percentage gap within my top 5.

The second one is very confusing to me. I have, for some time, tried to focus on my inner prayer life and my personal relationship with Christ. These are all major factors within Orthodox Quaker (Friends) beliefs. I was happy to see that the result was Orthodox Quaker, as some of the more liberal Quaker schools of thought lean toward Universalism.

Well, that is a short blog for today but it was something I felt like sharing. Take the quiz for yourself and post your results back to me in the comments. It would be interesting to share that with each other.

Aerosmith, A Yeti, and A Stitch

2008-12-11T21:53:00.005-06:00

As I mentioned earlier, I spent the week after Thanksgiving in Disney and it brought back several memories from my childhood, when I last visited the Magic Kingdom. some of the rides and attractions from then are gone, some (perhaps) should be, and many new things have been added.

As I walked around with my family, nearly 30 years after my own visit, it was amazing how many things I remembered about the park. I remember the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a roller coaster for the entire family, and I smiled as both of my children wanted to ride it over and over again as I had. I was also happy they were brave enough to get on the ride, since our first ride at Disney was a terrifying free fall ride at Disney's Hollywood park. I'll talk about that another time.

My daughter did not want to go on the other coasters, but my son and I took some time together to ride the more adventurous rides. First up was Space Mountain. Disney is not known for roller coasters, and Space Mountain is very old by the standards of most parks. However, I was not able to ride it when I went to the park, so I was excited to finally get the chance. My son and I rode it 10 times in all. There are no big hills, but the darkness, fast spins, and unique setting made it fun.

Next, we rode Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom. Aside from the bus station being located next to what must have been the animal toilet, this park was very nice and we enjoyed it. The Everest ride, like all Disney rides, was heavy on theme but we did not know what to expect from the ride. Again, no huge hills on this one, but it featured an exciting backward portion of the ride, a small to medium hill, some fast turns, and a Yeti. Andrew, my son, and I rode this one 8 times. I think it was his favorite.

Finally, we returned to Disney Hollywood and rode the Aerosmith roller coaster. This one was also heavy on theme, but it was nice to hear some good old rock and roll while standing in line. We did use our fast pass options until they ran out and we waited over an hour to ride it once. This one did not have any large hills, but did feature some loops, which are exciting. The most exciting/intense aspect of this coaster is the speed. The premise is that we are in a limo in a rush to get to an Aerosmith show. Once loaded into our seats, we wait until the traffic light changes and then we rocket forward from 0 to 60mph in 2.8 seconds (according to the brochures). ZOOM ZOOM!

The ride is very brief, but enjoyable, and I hope we will put it on heavy rotation when we go back in a year or two. I love old Aerosmith music, but I hope they skip over some of the later power ballads in the future. Oh well, at least it was rock and roll and not a rick roll (don't ask about that annoying phenom, just click here if you are brave enough).

Oddly, the place I remember the least was the hotel where I stayed as a child. Although we stayed in one of the newer resorts, Andrew and I had breakfast at the Polynesian Village, where I had stayed. There we ate some of the best food we had on the trip and had our pictures made with some of the Disney characters.

All in all, it was a good trip and a much appreciated break from the bizarre year I've had this year in my career. We might not have planned the trip when we did if not for a chance invitation to a reunion website from my old high school. There, I ran across the younger sister of a friend from school who works as a Disney only travel agent. She planned the whole thing. If you are thinking of going, email me. She took care of all of the plans for us.

I'm already thinking about a Disney cruise although is it really Disney without a monorail?

Damn Lies and Statistics (as the saying goes)

2008-12-11T19:56:00.003-06:00

My liberal friend John forwarded a funny article earlier from USA Today. Granted, it was not intentionally funny but the premise of it was so flawed that I had to laugh - until I read the comments and realized that some of our more self-righteous citizens actually bought the idea.

In short, the article claimed that North Dakota* is the most corrupt state in the United States. I don't know anyone in North Dakota, but I have been to Sioux Falls in South Dakota once and it was a lovely town. Anyway, I digress.

The basis of their calculation is that there were 53 politicians convicted of corruption in the state since 1998. True, that does sound bad until you compare it with Illinois (which is in the news because of Governor Blagovsekhwehgarrrggh's arrest) or California or other larger states. However, the USA Today analysis was flawed because it compared convicted politicians to total population, which is somewhat akin to comparing oranges to ocelots.

Most people are not politicians. In fact, very few people are politicians.

A more accurate analysis would have been to get the percentage of convicted politicians from the number of POLITICIANS as a whole. You see, since almost all people are not politicians, the percentage of convicted politicians cannot accurately be averaged from the total population — a whole from which it is not a subset.

If we take the number of elected politicians in North Dakota and get a percentage from the total number of elected politicians (a whole from which convicted politicians would be a subset) then we get a different figure. According to census figures**, there are 15,482 elected officials in North Dakota, of which 53 were convicted. By comparison, California had 547 convictions out of just 18,925 elected officials.

I'm no math wizard, but California is much higher as a percentage than North Dakota when you compare politicians to politicians. I don't know if it was just sloppy research, bad math, partisan politics, or bad reporting but the premise of the story is laughably flawed.

The skewed results of their story only serve to confuse the more weak minded. That's not a republican or democrat view on my part. When it comes to politicians, I say throw them all out.

* I do not work in public relations for the state of North Dakota, but I am willing to listen to any offers.
** US Census information on the number of elected officials is from page 3 of 1992 Census of Governments at the link above. It is a pdf.

Disney Thoughts

2008-12-07T17:11:00.003-06:00

We returned from our first trip to Disney in Orlando last night. We left early Friday morning after Thanksgiving with my parents and my sister's family. I don't know where to begin to try to blog about the experience, but I will begin with a few thoughts about the people, places, and things that stick out in my mind.

1. Disney pins. Kids love collecting Disney pins. I wonder how these things move on Ebay?

2. Old people on scooters drive just as bad as old people in cars.

3. The food is far too expensive - especially considering the taste to dollar ratio.

4. Disney has grown a lot since I was there as a child. Take a good pair of shoes.

5. The Magic Kingdom had the best parades (if you, like Ethel Merman, love those).

6. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is a pretty good time to go.

7. Plan ahead and Fast Pass the popular rides and attractions.

8. Look out Mississippi, Michigan is vying for the fattest state crown.

9. Did I mention that the food was really bad and expensive? However, you can go to the Boardwalk or Downtown Disney, or Epcot and find some nice meals.

10. I don't really have a tenth point yet (maybe in another blog) but I felt compelled to have ten points.

Overall, it was a good trip and I look forward to going again soon. Details on some of the things we did are coming up in another post.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T19:32:00.003-06:00

I got to see a lot of my family today and tomorrow I am taking my kids to Disney. Check back here for more on that trip soon. I'll try to blog from there if I can.

Today, I took some time to reflect on things in my life and I am grateful for that experience.

In the past year, so much has gone on in my personal life. I don't know where to begin to detail it all. Those of you who know me have heard it all. I appreciate all of you who rode that ride with me.

I am also thankful to everyone who bought shirts from me on Cafepress.com and I am thankful for everyone who reads this blog (especially if you click on the ads).

Happy Turkey Day.

Election 2008

2008-11-04T22:23:00.006-06:00

As I sit here watching John McCain give his congratulations to Barack Obama, I think of the life he led for this country. He may not have been your choice, but you cannot doubt that he loves America. Half of the country will not be happy at the outcome of this election but I am reminded of the passage in Romans where Paul speaks of government leaders.

Romans 13:1
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

I wrote here, a long time ago, that all leaders are given their authority to govern by God. I believe this is true - even if they are leaders we do not agree with. All things do, after all, serve his purpose. Not every purpose is apparent to us.

When I was in college at the University of Alabama, I wrote my senior project on black history. I was in a self directed major and a senior project had to be outside of my field of study. It was fascinating to study the tradition of oral history (story telling) that originated in Africa and survived in America. The first generation after slavery brought us the Harlem Renaissance - a cultural explosion that gave us literature, art, and music. Jazz came from that generation, and we can all be grateful.

As the returns started to come in and it became apparent that Obama was going to win the day, I switched over to BET and watched the coverage there. The announcers were very gracious, but also very emotional. Understandable. It is an historic moment. One man, and I did not catch his name, made a very good point. Black Americans did not just elect a black President. White Americans just elected a black President. It's important to keep this in mind. It took many voters from a broad cross section of the nation to make it happen. Race was not an issue.

Growing up in the South, I have always hated the stigma of racism cast upon us by other parts of the country. Racism exists in every city in every state in every region of the country. No exceptions. To point fingers at one region is looking for splinters and ignoring the planks. If this election means nothing else to this country, I hope it finally helps us move past the idea that racism is an institution. Educated people of all colors can finally let go of the past. The uneducated who cling to it will, hopefully, fade away. I wish sincerely that Obama's grandmother had lived one more day to see this moment. I am sure she is watching.

I don't agree with Mr. Obama on the ideas of taxes, class warfare, entitlements, health care, or many other issues (without getting into them all here). However, we need to wake up and pray for him, wish him the best, and try to move forward. I don't think it is in anyone's best interest to look to government for answers to personal problems and I hope he will not try to be all things to all people. There will be disagreements - probably many - and a healthy debate is a good thing.

I hope Senator McCain can move on. He was not my candidate in the beginning, but I respect his service to our nation. His selection of Palin boosted his campaign when it looked like he had no chance. She might have emerged too soon onto the national stage, but she inspired the base that was content to wait this one out. There is no disgrace in waging a good fight so long as it is not a wasted fight. I hope he will return to the senate and lead for years to come.

I don't know what tomorrow might bring, but I do know that America is a young nation and we always have a bright future. Later in chapter 13 of Romans, Paul beckons for believers to wake up from their slumber and he proclaims that we should all put on the armor of light. Maybe this is God's message to America now. Maybe we, as individuals, are supposed to stand for something again. Maybe we are supposed to pray! However, that is a discussion for another day. For today, I ask for God to bless America and may he bless each of us, prosper us and not harm us, and may he guide the new President and reveal his purpose to us all.

Race to Indifference: Election Day

2008-11-04T17:28:00.005-06:00

I voted this morning. It took an hour and a half to cast a ballot and I wonder if it meant anything at all. Most of our state and local races were uncontested, so there was no real decision to be made in any of them.

In the Presidential election, which I have written about in an earlier post, I expect to have a late night watching returns. As a small business owner, I am very concerned about the prospects of one candidate being elected and I am not convinced the other one will do much to help me either. There is an old adage that says "do no harm" but voting has become the selection of the lesser evil. Our founding fathers fought and died so we could choose between McCain and Obama?

What a rip off!

This country could use a Newt Gingrich right now. There is not another Teddy Roosevelt on the horizon and I've given up on seeing another Ronald Reagan in my lifetime. In a nation of 300 million people, can we not find one inspiring leader?

In the accepted wisdom of the day, as spewed by the talking heads on tv punditland, Obama is a guaranteed winner - it is only a matter of how much. He may win, but I just don't see it being a landslide by any means. I could be wrong. The poll internals just don't suggest it, even if the media is trying to force us to accept it. The liberals have always worn ruby slippers and tried to wish things into existence. It may work this time, but it won't last.

I resisted endorsing a candidate in this blog, but now that the damage is done either way I will endeavor to talk about a few of the issues in future blogs.

Grab some coffee (or another beverage) and dig in. It could be a long night.

The Point of Evil

2008-10-28T21:51:00.001-05:00

I form the light, and create darkness; I make peace, and create evil. I am Jehovah, that doeth all these things. Isaiah 45:7 (ASV)

Why would God create evil? Some translations of Isaiah say calamity or disaster, but either way, what would be the point?

The answer is not as difficult as it might appear. If we accept that nothing exists that God did not create, then we must accept that evil did not catch him by surprise. To believe otherwise would be to suggest that God made a mistake and that the universe was defective in design. While many things do not make sense to the human mind, the overwhelming anthropism of the universe demands that we believe everything was created for a purpose.

So, if God knew that evil would enter into the earth, why did he allow it? First, it was to test us and shape us. In this school of souls we call life, we learn more from hardship than we ever will from triumph. It is a sad characteristic of humanity that we turn to God for help more than we turn to him in praise. He wants us to turn to him.

The second reason evil exists is simple. Without evil, free will could not exist.

If there was no good versus evil, we could not choose good. Unless we can choose, we cannot LOVE.

I love those “Life is Good” t-shirts that are popular now. They have such a simple message of truth on them—a positive theology of their own. Life is good, it is just not always easy. God created good and evil to teach us to seek that which is good. All things serve his purpose, even blogs.

Who Would Have Guessed?

2008-10-11T14:10:00.003-05:00

Boredom CAN be Entertaining

2008-10-11T09:47:00.008-05:00

I responded to one of the Nigerian Spammers over the summer and wrote them as if we were new pen pals. I offered her (or him) a cat, rambled on in jabberwocky fashion, used a pen name (Bay Tobin), made up words and overly familiar inappropriate nicknames, and provoked them for no reason.

Such fun.

If you are interested is some odd, though off color, humor and you hate spam, maybe you will enjoy this.

I am planning to start writing again, using the same pen name, as if we are just meeting.

Boredom CAN be entertaining.

Methuselah vs Beelzebub (aka Campaign 2008)

2008-10-11T09:05:00.008-05:00

I have my own political blog, which is neglected even more than this blog. I haven't written on Campaign 2008 - the March to Indifference yet. The election is less than a month away, so here are my thoughts.

Is it my imagination, or did leaders in the past actually inspire people?

We have a choice between a man who has never stood for much versus a man who has never accomplished anything.

We have to decide between huge government and really really huge government.

I had resolved not to vote for either candidate this year unless one of them picked a running mate worth my attention. Biden is a nice guy (don't laugh) and I admire the way he took care of his family after his wife's death. However, he has been a part of the problem for two decades and he has consistently been wrong on the issues.

On the other hand, McCain has chosen Sarah Palin. I was an early advocate of Palin. I think she is a breathe of fresh air in a campaign that smells of moth balls in my grandmother's attic. I wish she had a bit more experience, because I think she does connect with mainstream America.

Resolved: I am likely going to write myself in again. It couldn't hurt - there is nothing left for me to mess up and we just don't have a Teddy Roosevelt on the horizon. In the race to indifference between Methuselah and Beelzebub, there is no winner. Sadly for America, there are 300 million losers in this campaign cycle. God help us all.

If you want to join the revolution and write me in, email me.

Coffee Flavored Coffee

2008-10-11T08:50:00.014-05:00

I love coffee. I am sure I have mentioned this before, but it is worth repeating. I love coffee so much that I have sought help from paramedics for caffeine related anxiety attacks that have resulted in forced moderation. I love coffee so much that I eat chocolate dipped espresso beans for fun. My doctor said I should cut back on coffee and exercise more. I’ve been working on the proper coffee to bike ride ratio so that I don’t have to give up coffee completely. Wish me luck, I am not a math guru.

Sometimes, I may come across as a coffee snob. I’m not someone who rushes out and mortgages the house on the trendy double whammy frothy megabuck cup of coffee. However, I am not a fan of the standard boiled potting soil brand of office coffee either. My favorite brands from the store are Melitta and Illy although I like to try other brands when I find them. i'm really not a coffee snob - if you offer me a cup of coffee, I will drink it. I just have my favorites. People are that way.

We are out of my favorite coffee at the moment and It’s my fault, I did not write coffee on the grocery list. This morning, I have managed to scrape together a hybrid blend of two different flavored coffees I found in the cabinet. You know the kind of coffee I mean – the kind you get as a gift. I haven’t taken my first sip yet. The thought of some cinnamon/vanilla hybrid blend may cause a different form of anxiety. I will have to look up the number for 911 and have it ready – just in case.

After a preemptive “bleh” my first sip was not good in the traditional sense of the word.

Your first cup of coffee in the morning should be, oddly enough, coffee flavored. So should your second. Most coffee should be coffee flavored. I’m old school – it’s how I roll. Sometimes, I like the fancy coffee drinks, but I could sip on a plain old cup of coffee all day – well, until I start hallucinating about death and drive to the local fire station to have my blood pressure checked. One cup short of that, and I’m good.

A few years ago, I worked with an incredibly nice woman who knew I loved coffee. I was typically the first person into the office each morning (Note to former college professors: yes, this is me – Terry). When I arrived, I would make a nice pot of coffee and could often be two cups into my day before my next colleague joined me. However, the woman I mentioned would sometimes arrive before me and make coffee for us. Bless her heart. She loved flavored coffee.

I will drink a flavored coffee once in a while. Infrequent is a key word here but remember this simple creed: your first cup of coffee in the morning should be coffee flavored. My friend, who was only trying to share with me, would announce “good morning. I just made a whole pot of Double Cinna-Minty Zippety Freaking Doo Dah Blend. You’re gonna love it. It’s my favorite.”

Yippee!

Back then, when I worked downtown, I could drink a cup of DCMZFDD Blend and then head out for an imaginary meeting and stop off at Edgar’s or another downtown coffee shop to cleanse my palate from the lukewarm putridity. Flavored coffee in the morning is evil because it makes you lie. I didn’t have a meeting, I was just trying to be nice and get out of the office. I was an enabler for this coffee behavior. I am sorry.

I have not thought about my friend in a while but my lack of real hot bean juice this morning made me laugh thinking about those days. I work at home now, so "office coffee" is neither flavored nor boiled potting soil (usually). Today, I have had to start off my day with some unholy blend of two different flavored coffees. Coffee Karma gets its laugh. Maybe I will get dressed and run to Publix to stock the pantry and, perhaps, stop along the way to alert the medics to my behavior - just in case.

Good morning. Sorry I haven’t blogged in a while. Did i mention that I am a slacker? If my friend is reading this, I am just picking at you. Your coffee was good – it’s just that mine was better. :)

Jesus in the New Age

2008-07-03T08:51:00.004-05:00

You can't go into a book store lately without seeing a display on "The Secret", The Law of Attraction, or Abraham-Hicks. However, are these books compatible with our Christian faith?

In many ways, the teachings ARE compatible (positive thinking, reap what you sow, believe and you shall receive, etc.). However, one of the problems with such new age thought is that it tries to teach spirituality without Jesus. From our perspective, that simply does not work.

Rather than writing a long article on the subject, another blogger has done some fine work on the matter. Check out his work on LoA by clicking here.

If you have seen those books and wondered if they were compatible with your faith, maybe this will help.

Five Thoughts for Friday

2008-06-27T17:55:00.004-05:00

1 If modern fundamentalists claim there are no female angels, who are the flying women messengers in Zechariah 5:9?

2 Bill Gates retired yesterday. Now he has something in common with Vista - neither works.

C If we are supposed to turn the other cheek, why is mooning so wrong?

4 Gas prices would drop quick if the value of the dollar was stronger.

5 People do not understand tithing... neither do pastors, apparently.

Before You Go to Sleep, Say a Little Prayer

2008-06-21T15:48:00.008-05:00

I haven't written in a while, so it is a good thing I am not using blogging as an example of spiritual discipline. In my previous post, I wrote about a church missing the point of who the church should be going after. Here's another example.

Those of you who know me know that I love music. In fact, I like most types of music although I am not a fan of opera or rap. However, I love rock, alternative country, classical, jazz, and almost any other type of music. One of my all time favorite bands, since I was a small child, is the Beatles. I don't even remember them when they were still together, but I remember them always being on the radio. I even took a course on the Beatles in college. The title of this article is a line from a song John Lennon wrote to his son shortly before he died.

I got into a discussion recently where someone told me that I shouldn't like the Beatles because they were not Christians. I'm not sure what that has to do with thinking Rubber Soul is a good album, but okay.

I began to research the Beatles and it made me sad more about our faith than anything. In the late 1970s, John Lennon actually converted back to Christianity - having been raised Anglican. He wrote about it in his diaries and contacted, of all people, Oral Roberts for spiritual counseling. He wrote Christian songs during this period (only one of which was released as far as I can tell) and commented on his beliefs to his friends.

Who knows if he stuck with it? That is something between God and Lennon. I hope he did.

However, in reading on the subject I found a quote from him about the song Help, which was released the year I was born.

"I wrote "Help" in '65, and people hailed it as another advance in rock & roll. It was the cry of my heart and nobody came to answer."

How sad.

Christians could have come to answer Lennon's cry for "help" but instead "Christians" burned records, misquoted his comments for slogans and attacks, and turned their backs on him. Not much has really changed, if you think about it. IF John Lennon died without knowing Christ, how do you think God in Heaven will judge the Christians who pushed him away?

One of the last songs he recorded, Help Me to Help Myself, was a simple prayer to the Lord for help. In it he says "But I know in my heart that we never really parted."

I hope so.

A Point Well Missed

2008-06-02T16:59:00.002-05:00

I was sitting around last week discussing ways to spread the word about the Celebrate Recovery program at my church when the conversation took an unexpected turn.

We were trying to think of new ways to tell people about the ministry and focus on the fact that it is for anyone who has any "hurt, habit, or hangup" that keeps them from growing in their relationship with God. After all, people don't recover and then find God. In fact, people can't find God at all - he is not the one who is missing.

I remarked that the "religious" can really be a bunch of Pharisees when it comes to dealing with people with problems. I had barely even finished the sentence when someone mentioned that another church on the other side of the city had called wanting one of our leadership team to speak to their congregation about Celebrate Recovery and put their minds at ease about it.

They were worried about the kind of people that would be coming into their church.

The church building (the people are the church, after all) is not a refuge from the world - it is a beacon to it. Thankfully, Jesus never worried about the kind of people he was inviting into his home, or we'd still be waiting on his first visit.

Five Thoughts for Friday

2008-05-16T13:42:00.003-05:00

1. If a sports radio host says he goes to the best steak house in town and orders the petite filet, is he really appealing to his target audience?

2. School should be year round.

3. If you are disappointed by the quality of candidates for President, feel free to write me in - I don't know what to do either but I admit it.

4. Why does dog urine kill my grass and shrubs but not the weeds?

5. I haven't caught a fish in nearly ten years, anyone want to hook a brother up with a fishing trip?

Parents of the Year Nominees

2008-04-11T09:43:00.006-05:00

I feel ashamed.

I focus too much attention on feeding the poor, better ways to make fuel, college savings, and even personal growth. I teach my kids to treat everyone fairly, help the needy, and to be thankful for blessings. Thanks to these candidates for Parent of the Year for setting me straight.

In case the link dies, here is a summary: a young Father of the Year candidate was arrested for arguing with his woman over which gang their 4-year-old should join.

Of all of the decisions facing parents today, what could be more important than deciding which GANG your kid should join? Maybe we should have parenting lifeguards who yell "You! Out of the gene pool" when some people try to breed.

Thank you, Joseph Manzanares and unidentified "baby's momma" for your contributions to parenting. I am sorry I have not been focused on important decisions for my child.

With this post, I hearby nominate this couple for Parents of the Year and I offer my sincere apologies for being a slack ass who was not focused on important decisions like this.

The Masters

2008-04-06T15:31:00.003-05:00

I have not written much lately (busy) but I hope to catch up on all of that soon. I have an interesting project or two on the horizon. First, however, I am off to Augusta for a few days to watch some golf with friends.

More when I get back.

Of Spiritual Things

2008-03-18T17:16:00.002-05:00

You don't have a soul. You are a Soul. You have a body. - C. S. Lewis

C. S. Lewis was a great thinker, a reformed atheist, and one of Christianity's most popular writers. His quote about the soul is one of my favorites because it flips the common view around.

We often look at ourselves as mortal beings striving for eternal life through religion (a frightening thought) but Lewis' quote reminds me that we are spiritual beings struggling in our mortal shells.

God has created us to be eternal - it is our human shell that is finite.

Where is our spirit nature in seeking religion? It is estimated that there are over 20,000 denominations selling their brand of Christianity in the world today - and I would not even venture a guess at other religions adding to the total. The world is filled with the secular seekers looking for answers. Some are looking for proof of God, others are looking for anything but God. However, why do the religious shrug at spiritual things? Even the religious leaders of Christ's times were bogged down in legalism – church ideas on behavior - and not in touch with the bigger picture. With so many factions vying for adherents, is it any wonder that the simple answer is often overlooked?

Recently, I was in Bible study and mentioned meditation when one of my friends made a funny face at the term to tease me. Meditation is simply being silent and listening to God, but in a world where religion puts God in a box, we often forget that he likes to talk to us. People go to church to learn, to fellowship with other believers, or for any number of good reasons, but we are often exactly like the disciples who walked away when the discussion turns spiritual.

Jesus spoke to his followers in John 6 and explained that his words were spiritual words - not of the flesh - and that the spirit held the key to life. Shortly thereafter, most of his disciples followed him no more. To me, this is a tragic comment, but it is not atypical today. For most people, the spiritual solution is not always the first choice. I am bad about this, but I am working on it.

How many times must I make bad decisions and ask God to fix it before I ask him to guide me to making a better decision in the first place?

Sadly, many of us struggle our whole lives to find earthly answers to the problems we face.

If we really believe Christ died so that we might have eternal life — and that is the premise of our beliefs — then why do we struggle so much inside these human shells against the nature we have been given through Grace?

Everything in life happens for a purpose — and we learn more from our failures than we ever can from our triumphs. These physical lessons shape who we are on a higher level. There are times when we petition God for help, but there must be times when we listen to what he has to tell us.

Jesus said God is a Spirit. He also said that Spirit gives life. Why must we fool ourselves into believing that answers can be found anywhere else? All of life's struggles can be equated to a spiritual struggle, and when we make time to speak to God on a spiritual level, we will find our struggles easier to face.

Problems will not go away simply because we pray. The Bible tells us that a spiritual life will often be difficult, but I believe the solutions will be more easily found and more successful with prayer.

Observations of the Hipster Doofus (part 1)

2008-02-09T19:59:00.001-06:00

If there is one constant in my life, it is that I am not hip. In fact, I can't even tell you if it is still hip to say things are hip.

However, I am a people watcher. I see people all of the time trying to look cool - when it is clear to the observer that they are either being very uncool, dorky, or (as is often the case) a complete ass.

Today, I turned my critical eye upon myself as a way of measuring the idiocy of others. I was late for an appointment this morning (fashionable, for sure) and I ran out of the house in an untucked J. Crew polo, a pair of loose fitting jeans, old shoes, and my sunglasses (which may or may not be out of style). As I reached my first meeting, I stepped out of the car with sunglasses on my head, cell phone in hand, and walked toward the coffee shop. I was a true hipster doofus today.

To top off the "look", I was not wearing a belt (by accident) and found myself constantly tugging on my pants to keep them in place. Sure, I was wearing boxers, like all of the droopy pant wearing teens, but - as people like to remind me far too often - I am 42 years old. I cannot pull off the baggy pantsed nitwit look. Nor would I want to if I could.

There are very few times when dropping your pants to your knees in public can be appropriate. Trust me on this, I have taken full advantage of those times in my past but today just did not feel like one of those rare moments. So, I found myself constantly walking with one hand grasping my jeans pocket just for extra security. I felt like an idiot - especially when I had to stop off at the grocery on the way home. It's hard to carry that little basket full of meat, a bag of charcoal and a cell phone while casually holding your pants on your body.

I am glad to be my age. I would not have liked to grow up in the current generation. The pressure to be a hipster doofus would be too much for me - and the constant fight against gravity would be stressful.

Great Quote

2008-02-05T21:21:00.001-06:00

"[Pain] removes the veil; it plants the flag of truth within the fortress of a rebel soul."

— C. S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain

Things They Don't Teach You in Sunday School

2008-01-21T16:45:00.001-06:00

Growing up a Southern Baptist, I have heard my fair share (and probably someone else's share) of “Fire and Brimstone” sermons. You can always find someone with a problem worth preaching about or a tv show, another denomination, or some evil worth condemning. You can always count on certain groups for a good old fashioned condemnation every now and then.

I hope I never have to hear another “Fire and Brimstone” sermon again. I am not inspired by them, and I wonder if anyone has ever been saved after hearing one. No doubt people have been frightened into momentary repentance, but has anyone ever decided to sincerely follow God after a fellow sinner made them feel like crap?

The Bible tells us that God does not wish any of us to perish, so why don't we spend more time learning what we SHOULD do instead of detailing what our neighbors are doing wrong?

"Jesus loves me this I know...".

Every kid had to sing that in Sunday school, but we grow up and go to big people church and teach ourselves how to condemn and we forget how to love. Sad, but usually true.

Just once, I would like to see a pastor have an altar call in a service and invite all saved people to the front of the church. People would be stumbling all over themselves to set an example. Rather than asking confused seekers to stand up in front of everyone, believers should be walking ahead of everyone and inviting them to come along.

Jesus did.

Thought for the Day

2008-01-16T22:31:00.000-06:00

You grow a lot more as a result of your trials and tribulations than you ever will from your triumphs.

An Early Resolution

2007-12-10T12:11:00.000-06:00

Christmas has not even arrived yet (even if the mall was decorated in September) and I have already made a New Year's Resolution. In 2008, I am going to look for more ways to give.

Recently, I signed the Celebrate Recovery ministry at my church up with IGive.com. Already, in the course of our online shopping that we would do anyway, we have earned nearly $1oo in donations for the ministry. It's a great way to give a little bit back to something you care about every day.

Think about it. If you order office supplies online, shop online, make travel arrangements, etc. (you get the idea) you can help your favorite cause(s) raise a bit more. Not bad.

Check it out. If you sign up through this link and shop within 45 days, the ministry I help lead will get an extra $5. Click here, and THANKS!

From the Bookshelf

2007-12-09T22:15:00.002-06:00

I typically have a stack of books going at any given time. Currently, one of the books is Blue Like Jazz, by Donald Miller. It's an interesting book because I can identify with a lot of it.

Miller's personal journey is a soul-searching attempt to reconcile traditional Christian belief within an increasingly secular world. You don't have to agree with everything he says to appreciate the sincerity he applies to the teachings of Jesus in his own life. It's refreshing. It's funny.

In one chapter, Miller and some friends set up a confession booth at a college festival known for excessive debauchery. The idea that the Christians were confessing to them must have caught everyone off guard.

I found that part particularly relevant because I have believed in God since I was a small child, but I have not always given it my best effort. I still struggle with that. In a society where people look at believers with a suspicious eye, we could all stand to say "I have not been a very good Christian. Sorry about that." Maybe then we could shine the perfect light of Jesus on a world we've helped tarnish with tv preachers, sex scandals, and sectarian nonsense.

Hey, I'm willing to do my part. I write a Christian blog but I have not always done my best at living a Christian life. Sorry about that.

Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality

Amazing What?

2007-12-09T14:11:00.000-06:00

In my mind, “Amazing Grace” is one of the greatest songs ever written. I have heard countless renditions of this song over the years. Growing up in a Christian home, I remember singing this song since I was a small child.

Somewhere in America, odds are someone is probably singing “Amazing Grace” right now. We sing about it, we write about it, but we have such a hard time accepting it. Why is God's perfect gift, GRACE, so difficult to embrace?

I've had fellow Christians — some of whom are ministers — argue over the meaning of Grace. The purpose of this article is not to start a debate over the ways God can manifest Grace in your life, but to discuss the core meaning of the term.

Jesus extended Grace to man when he died on the cross. Whether you believe in the tradition of Grace as being prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying or whether you are more Calvinist and accept it only as irresistible, there is really on one Grace and that is Saving Grace. Arguing over man's perception of it is a distraction, and God warns us against such things.

The simple truth is the greatest truth and it is that Christ extended Grace to us when he died for our sins. This does not mean that we are free to sin without concern, but that he has offered us a path to salvation that was not hidden irretrievably among the stumbling blocks of legalism.

Grace is hard to accept largely because it is free. So many times, the tempter will try to tell us that we have sinned too much, that we are not worthy, or that we are without hope. Don't believe it! Saying that your sins are too great is akin to telling God that the sacrifice of his son was pretty good, but not enough for you.

How frustrating we must be to our Father.

Let God work in your life. Stop handing him your excuses and, as they say in 12 step programs, “admit that you are powerless”. Only then will you find the power that Christ promised to his believers. He said that we would do greater things through faith than he has done. So, why don't we? Faith is built upon Grace, and it's more than something we sing about. No matter how you define Grace, accept it.

Faith Addiction

2007-11-24T15:23:00.000-06:00

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them." - Matthew 18:20

Last Friday, I tried to use that verse from Matthew to illustrate a point about the body of Christ. I think it went over well.

In the conversation, I was speaking with a group of men who have fought a variety of addictions in their lives. My analogy, for better or for worse, was that addicts always tend to find each other — birds of a feather, so to speak. People are drawn together by whatever the dominant force is in their lives. A person who is high will always know who else at a party is using.

My point is not really about drug addictions, or any other addiction. I was pondering how powerful we could be as Christians if we gathered together with sincere belief. The addict knows drugs are killing him, but he also believes they are solving his problems, easing his pains, or helping him escape something. He doesn't care what other people think.

As Christians, do we care too much about what other people think? Jesus doesn't destroy us, but he can solve our problems, ease our pain, and release us from our concerns. Wouldn't it be great if we could pursue spiritual growth the way an addict chases his next fix? We'd be determined, unapologetic, Christ addicts.

If you look in the Bible for the verse I mention, back up another verse and read. It is one of my favorites. It is empowering. Matthew 18:19 says: “Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.”

How much power could we wield if we were addicted to Grace, addicted to Faith, or Addicted to Peace? Jesus said that faith would allow his followers to do even greater things, but we limit ourselves in legalism, in churchiness (if I can use that term), and we act ashamed to be seen in the world. The church building is not our hiding spot from society, it should be a beacon.

Like I said in my analogy, addicts always recognize each other and find each other. Shouldn't we?

What if we were not ashamed to be Christians?

Thought for the Day

2007-09-26T21:16:00.000-05:00

The purpose of a life of faith is more than going to church to "be fed". The purpose is to feed.

It's Not About You

2007-08-21T20:23:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in my Celebrate Recovery small group last Friday discussing the events of the week with several of the men when someone mentioned the book The Purpose Driven Life. It's not surprising that someone would mention the book, since the writer, Rick Warren, is pastor at Saddleback Church, where Celebrate Recovery originated.

I was surprised that several of the group members spoke out about how much the book has helped them. I started to wonder why this book has had such an impact. So, this past weekend I took it off my shelf and read parts of it again.

It does contain some basic truths about things we take for granted in life, but the same can be said of Seinfeld reruns. So, why did this book cause such a sensation?

My best guess is that it DOES give the reader a sense of purpose. The world is full of people seeking answers — and it can be frustrating when those answers elude us. It tells us in plain language that God is in control and he hasn't given up on any of us. It's comforting.

So many of us get into trouble in life when we try to do things without God. We live in the culture of "I". There is nothing wrong with self confidence, but God teaches us to be humble. We get into the most trouble when we don't turn to God before we make a decision.

"It's not about you".

The first sentence of the book made me think of all the times I have put my will ahead of God's plans. To think of the trouble I could have avoided if I had prayed for guidance instead. The ego is a strange and powerful thing. The culture of "I" tells us that we are in charge, but we are not.

You won't find a deep theology in this book, but you will find a simple truth or two. That's better than most things, and maybe it will help you focus on your faith. Forty days of study won't help you if you stop there, but forty days can make a world of difference if you dig a little deeper.

July 4th

2007-07-04T21:02:00.000-05:00

Today has been a blessing and I just want to thank God for answered prayers. I got to spend some quality time with family, and I have needed that.

Also, I had some AMAZING ribs from Full Moon BBQ. It just doesn't get much better than food, family, and friends.

OK, nothing of theological importance to write tonight (there never really is), but being thankful is an important thing in our spiritual lives. So, tonight as you watch fireworks and celebrate freedom, remember the source of our freedom and our many other blessings.

Thanks all I have for now.

Terry

Helloooooooooo!

2007-05-08T12:49:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I have written. I've been through a few personal issues and writing hasn't been at the top of my list of things to do.

I'm still here and I have ideas for new stuff.

I hope to post more by the weekend.

Another Forty

2007-04-07T21:09:00.000-05:00

The number 40 is significant in the Bible. Moses spent 40 days on Mt. Sinai and wandered in the desert for 40 years. Elijah spent 40 days and nights walking to Mt. Horeb. God made rain fall for 40 days and nights in the story of Noah. There are other examples, but perhaps the most significant 40 is the number of days Jesus spent in the wilderness.

During his time there, Jesus fasted and was tempted by Satan. For the last 4o days, I have joined with millions of other Christians around the world observing the traditions of Lent. Lent, for most Christians, is the period of 40 days (not counting Sundays) between Ash Wednesday and Easter). For most of my life (I am only 41) I have not participated in the traditions of Ash Wednesday or Lent.

There is no Biblical mandate to participate in these things (and many denominations ignore them as meaningless), but it is a good way to fellowship with other believers and celebrate the victory of Christ over temptation by honoring his time in the wilderness. Many believers choose this time to give up something of value in their life. This year, I gave up coffee.

For many, this is not a big deal - especially if you do not like coffee. I love coffee. I drink a lot of coffee. Some days, I drink a whole pot by myself. That is too much!

The temptation was great in the first few days and so were the headaches. Even as I passed the midpoint of my fast from coffee, I found myself lingering near the empty pot in my kitchen. One Friday, I helped prepare the settings for the meal at Celebrate Recovery and one of my tasks was to brew the coffee for the guests. Thankfully, I survived.

Actually, this Lent has done my body good. As I mentioned, I drink a lot of coffee. In the week prior to Ash Wednesday, I had two anxiety attacks. If you have never had one, they are awful things. Many people have different symptoms, but WebMD defines them as "Separate and intense periods of fear or feelings of doom developing over a very short time frame". The site also says at least four of the following things will be present:

Palpitations
Sweating
Trembling
Shortness of breath
Sense of choking
Chest pain
Nausea
Dizziness
A feeling of being detached from the world
Fear of dying
Numbness or tingling
Chills or hot flushes

I had all of the above except the nausea. Years of assaulting my stomach with buffalo wings and spicy food in college probably prevented that symptom. My last one happened as I was sitting in line to pick up my kids from school. Typically, in the past, I pace a lot when they happen. It's hard to get out of the car and pace without alarming the other parents. So, as I sat there writhing in my seat and tugging on the confines of the seat belt I began to wonder if this was a sign.

I can say in all honesty that I believe that giving up coffee for Lent was a good thing. I have not had an attack since. Giving something up for Lent is purely voluntary, but it can be a real blessing if you give up the right things for the right reasons.

I will get up in the morning and I will probably have a cup of coffee for the first time in what feels like an eternity. I will probably enjoy it. I will take this opportunity to start over in moderation and give thanks to God for helping me defeat this temptation. It has been good for my health.

If you gave up something for Lent, whether you made it the whole time or not, I hope this time has been good for you.

OK, Here It Is

2007-04-07T20:53:00.000-05:00

This is the article I wrote for Jackson Christian Family. It is basically a rewrite of an earlier blog from this page with a bit of a different message. I hope you enjoy it.

Pour It On

John 13:3-9 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

As we celebrate the holiest week in our Christian faith, it is fitting to reflect on the meaning of the season. Amidst the pageantry of Cantatas, Easter bonnets, colorful ties, egg hunts, and chocolate bunnies, do we forget the sacrifice of the lamb? In Passover, a lamb was sacrificed for the Seder meal, but Jesus was the lamb who gave his body and blood for our sins.

In John’s account of the last supper, he places focus on Jesus’ teaching through the washing of feet. When Jesus approached Peter to wash his feet, Peter didn’t get it. He didn’t understand. As Christians, are we not like Peter? Do we have faith, but lack the understanding to follow that faith? If Peter can miss the point, certainly we can.

Recently, I read the book Peter, Paul, and Mary Magdalene and the writer makes this point about Peter as well. He says Peter was an “all or nothing” person. At first, he refused to let Jesus wash his feet then, when the Lord told him that he must cleanse them, he overdid things in the other extreme. He was enthusiastic, but missed the message.

Many of us celebrate the resurrection on Easter Sunday, but do we fully grasp the gift humbly given to us on the cross? It’s human nature to get wrapped up in our own needs and desires and forget that God has a plan in our lives. Sometimes, we can get discouraged in our faith because we can only see the things we want, and when God doesn't provide them according to our plans we abandon them. It is at this point that we should remember that all things are in His power. He has a plan and part of faith is submitting to that plan. Peter didn't get it at first, but the church was built on him.

This past Sunday, my pastor spoke after our Easter musical. He asked a thought-provoking question. What if everything we understood about Christianity ended with Palm Sunday? Jesus was welcomed with much pageantry and was declared the King by many. It was a huge celebration.

What if our faith was a great big celebration on Sunday and disappeared during the week? We would miss the lesson of servitude Jesus taught with the foot washing. We would miss the Grace and Salvation delivered on the Cross. As large of a celebration as Palm Sunday was, Jesus was sacrificed on the cross within the following week. He was alone. The people who celebrated His arrival were gone when the party was over.

God’s Grace extends the offer of cleansing to each of us. Rather than hand God a laundry list of demands, let’s remember to thank him for the care and planning he has already given to our needs. As we celebrate this Holy season, let’s take the time to serve others, forgive others, forgive ourselves, and accept the gifts given to us on that day.

When the Lord approaches you to wash your feet, Let him.

New Article

2007-04-02T08:33:00.000-05:00

So, I have been asked to write an article for Jackson Christian Family. The magazine is based in Jackson, Mississippi and is already a client of my graphic design business. Other than my blog, I have not had an article on faith published in print before.

My previously published work has been in arts, theatre, or politics. I'm thinking of taking some of the material I have used here and adapting it. Since I don't live in Jackson, I don't want to focus on my church life but rather on a broader application of faith.

If they let me, I may post the article here afterward.

The Priesthood of All Believers (or why was Jesus Baptized?)

2007-03-01T21:01:00.000-06:00

Luke 2:22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.

Recently, I got into a discussion over the validity of infant baptism and, from there, made the leap into the meaning of baptism in general. Like many things with God, it has meaning on multiple levels. Many people associate baptism with cleansing and a profession of faith. While I agree with that position in many ways, it makes me wonder why Jesus needed baptism.

The obvious answer is to demonstrate obedience to God for the rest of us. However, as I said, it has meaning on multiple levels. One level I want to explore is the use of baptism as ordination.

In Jewish tradition, a man could not become a priest in the temple until the age of 30. Further, a candidate for priesthood must be washed by an existing priest (Exodus 29:4, Leviticus 8:6). We know that Jesus’ formal ministry began after his baptism, so was he ordained at this point? YES! John the Baptist was a priest by lineage (Exodus 29:9, Numbers 25:13, Luke 1). In fact, he only began his ministry a short time before Christ. Remember, he is only a few weeks or months older than Jesus — it was John who jumped in the womb of his mother when Mary came to visit. Jesus approached John for baptism even though scripture indicates that others were present and performing baptisms in the river that day.

However, according to prophecy (I just love saying that) Jesus was a priest of the order of Melchizedek – a priesthood not based on lineage and without beginning or end. So, although Christ was dedicated as a child, he accepted adult baptism as an ordination. All believers are called to ministry based on our spiritual gifts.

What did this have to do with the original discussion on infant baptism? Well, Paul likened circumcision to baptism and Joseph and Mary had Jesus circumcised on the 8th day (according to the law of Moses) and also presented him in the temple and made a sacrifice on his behalf. So, if circumcision is the equal of baptism according to Paul, Jesus did not need to be baptized – having been circumcised already. Therefore, it was far more than a statement of faith (although it certainly was one).

Jesus was not in need of a cleansing – being the sinless savior of us all. Certainly, Christ's actions that day were a statement of faith, but they were also done in obedience to the laws of ordination among other things.

The Bible says "he that believes and is baptized shall be saved." So, while baptism is an important profession of faith, I think it is fallacy to suggest that someone must be baptized again as an adult upon a profession of faith if they have been baptized already as a child. That’s another article for another day, however. Hint: the Apostles baptized entire households including paidia which means "babes in arms".

Baptism does not remove the sin nature. Grace washes away our sins but every day is a choice to follow Christ. Remember that Grace precedes faith.

If we can accept that baptism is an ordination, Christ's example set for us that day is that we must all be ordained into the priesthood of all believers. We are all called to spread his word and to reach others in his name.

Go tell it.

Jesus' Tomb

2007-02-24T23:06:00.000-06:00

James Cameron, the Hollywood director, is about to hold a press conference announcing that he found the tomb of Christ and that his body was still there.

His evidence you ask? DNA!

Where, would James Cameron get a sample of Christ's DNA to test? It's a fair question, but you just know that some people are going to buy into this myth without asking. You have to hand it to Mr. Cameron. After all, convinced more than a few people to like Titanic, so this should be a cinch for the anti-Christian crowd to ingest.

I've linked to the blog at Time magazine above (click on the title of this entry). Check it out for yourself. Apparently, Mr. Cameron also claims that Jesus and Mary Magdalene had a son, Judah. Dan Brown, author of The Da Vinci Code claimed they had a daughter named Sarah. Maybe Cameron and Brown can wrestle on pay per view to see which myth should prevail. It would certainly be more interesting than most of their recent work.

Forgiveness

2007-02-02T07:16:00.000-06:00

I thank God every day for my friends. I thank him for many other things as well, but I have a few friends who have been on my mind a lot lately.

I have a very dear friend who wants to lose weight and has asked me to walk with her. After a few months of talking about it, we have yet to go. I rarely exercise, but I concede that it would be good for me to start. Although our goals for walking are different, the outcome could be the same. We could both get into better shape.

Spiritual walks are the same way. Some people talk about getting closer to God, but never actually go to the park and start walking down any path. I read a devotional in The Upper Room this week that reminded me of walking. When you walk in the winter, you sometimes bundle up before you go outside, but as you make progress you begin to shed layers as your body adjusts to the activity.

Sometimes, we hide ourselves under layers of insecurity. We refuse to let others truly know us for fear that they will see our flaws. We build our own barriers to growth. We have to peel off the layers.

People struggle with many things in life: finances, divorce, adultery, drugs, alcohol, abuse, anger, overeating, codependence, illness, and on and on. There is no person who has not sinned or struggled. It is important to find someone who will listen.

For whatever reason, God gave me a gift of comforting. I used to think it was a curse. Strangers have approached me in the past and shared their troubles. WHY? I questioned why God wanted me to hear them and why I was supposed to carry that burden for others.

Finally, I realized that I am not required to carry that burden for them. This is hard for any codependent to understand (and I think all men are somewhat codependent), but my duty to them is to listen. In Celebrate Recovery, where I lead a men’s small group, we learn that speaking what you are holding secret makes all the difference.

As I looked out the window this morning at the gloomy, wet, 20-something degree weather, I laughed that today would not be the day that my friend starts walking to lose weight, or that I start walking to get in shape. Then, I was reminded of the layers of insecurity my friend has shed in our conversations, and it occurred to me that she is already walking.

Although I use one friend as an example, it is really symbolic of the struggles in all of our lives. I have friends who struggle with many of the same issues I mention above and I meet people every week who just need to talk to someone. Usually, they already have the answers but it does them good to share. I pray for them and I hope they pray for me and my concerns as well.

Sometimes, people resist walking because they fear they will stumble. God doesn’t want you to stagnate in your life. He has offered you forgiveness, and you have to accept it. You have to forgive yourself also. This is the hardest thing to do, but guilt, anger, resentment, and repressed emotions cause you harm. If you are angry at someone, does your anger hurt them or you? If you forgive them, does your forgiveness help them or you? The answer to both questions is YOU.

If you think about it, the only time forgiveness helps the person being forgiven is when the forgiveness comes from God. He’s already provided his Grace. When we forgive others, and ourselves, we follow his example and we allow ourselves to accept the Grace in our lives.

The Stumbling Blocks of Writing

2007-02-02T05:48:00.000-06:00

Although I don't suffer from the illusion that I have readers, I have struggled with the idea that I do not write on this blog (or any of my others) with any consistency.

I have tried. I have had a lot of ideas, but the world has a way of saying "not now" far too often. I write as part of my spiritual discipline. When I write, I can devote time specifically to God, my thoughts on God, and the ups and downs of a spiritual walk.

It's so easy to skip a day in my prayer journal, or to miss a week in my devotional study. I never go a day without speaking to God, but I don't always start my day with the quiet time I need. God understands, but I know that my own growth is centered around spending time in my faith.

I had toyed with renaming my blog The 4am Christian, because I tend to write in the wee hours of the morning. However, I don't think a name change is a good mask for my own lack of discipline.

If anyone is reading this, let me know. Is there a topic you want to discuss? I have been working on a piece about why Jesus - who was sinless - wanted to be baptized. I hope you will find it interesting, if I ever finish it.

Pour It On

2007-01-12T22:55:00.000-06:00

John 13:3-9 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." "No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." "Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"

When Jesus approached Peter to wash his feet, Peter didn’t get it. He didn't understand. Jesus said as much. As Christians, are we not like Peter? Do we have faith, but lack the understanding to follow that faith? If Peter can miss the point; certainly, we can.

Recently, I read Peter, Paul, and Mary Magdalene and the writer makes this point about Peter as well. He says Peter was an “all or nothing” person. At first, he refused to let Jesus wash his feet, then when the Lord told him that he must cleanse them, he overdid things in the other extreme.

Sometimes, we can get discouraged in our faith because we can only see the things we want, and when God doesn’t provide them according to our plans we abandon them. It is at this point that we should remember that all things are in His power. He has a plan and part of faith is submitting to that plan.

God’s Grace extends the offer of cleansing to each of us. Rather than hand God a laundry list of demands, let’s remember to thank him for the care and planning he has already given to our needs.

When the Lord approaches you to wash your feet, Let him.

Intelligent Design

2006-08-24T18:20:00.000-05:00

I can see no reason why a man, or other animals, may not have been aboriginally produced by other laws, and that all these laws may have been expressly designed by an omniscient Creator, who foresaw every future event and consequence. But the more I think the more bewildered I become; as indeed I probably have shown by this letter.

- Charles Darwin to Asa Gray, [a minister] May 22, 1860

Funny that people look to Darwin, who trained to be a pastor in the Anglican church, to defeat the idea of design. Certainly, as he admits, he lost his faith but he was willing to admit the possibility of God. He just wanted proof.

Every day people struggle with faith and look for a clear sign from God that He is real and that He cares. Sometimes, the answers are in the details and not the grand gestures of proof that people seek.

I could write far more than you care to read on alternate theories of the origin of man. There are numerous theories that mankind was delivered here by intelligent life from other planets. Such a belief requires enormous faith, however misguided that faith may be.

God will make himself known in your life if you are willing to listen. He still speaks to us when we are receptive to him even if He speaks in different ways than the stories in the Bible. If you find your shrubbery on fire tomorrow morning as you leave the house, it is probably okay to put that out - just don't put God out of your life.

Is Jesus a Liberal or a Conservative?

2006-08-13T19:07:00.000-05:00

Nothing will anger one side of the political divide more than the other side claiming that Jesus would agree with them. But, what would Jesus do in regard to politics?

Paul tells us in Romans that we are to obey our leaders because their right to govern was given to them by God. Some might argue that Stalin and Hitler, and others, could not have been allowed to govern by God. I disagree. Although they were evil men, God can use evil to advance his greater good. I don't claim to understand it all.

But, what about today? Liberals claim that Jesus was filled with "Peace Love and Understanding", if I can borrow part of the title of one of my favorite Elvis Costello tunes. Conservatives claim that Jesus was forgiving, but was also plain spoken in matters of right and wrong. In truth, both sides are right. That's the lesson of Grace. God gives us rules to live by and forgives us if we stumble - so long as we are sincere in our prayer for forgiveness.

What form of government would Jesus prefer? His kingdom was not of this world. He spoke against religious authorities many times but had little to say against government. He spoke about giving generously to those in need, and also paying debts to government when they are due. He never spoke of a government program as a solution to any problem.

Perhaps the best answer can be found in the gospels (like always).

"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (II Corinthians 9:7).

I'll leave it to you to decide.

Serenity

2006-08-06T21:39:00.000-05:00

GOD, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Living One day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardship as the pathway to peace. Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it. Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may be reasonably happy in this life, and supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen

The Serenity Prayer, commonly attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr, is perhaps one of the most popular prayers in the Christian world. Certainly, it is a beautiful prayer. Although many, including Niebuhr, differ on the origin of the prayer, it has become synonymous with Twelve Step programs around the world.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I volunteer with Celebrate Recovery at my local church, Clearbranch. It is a wonderful Christ-centered recovery program that broadens the recovery process beyond drug and alcohol addiction and reaches out to other problems such as physical abuse, sexual addictions, divorce care, codependency, grief, anger, and practically anything that can serve as a stumbling block in life.

Recently, as we recited the prayer in our friday night worship service, I listened and thought about how it applied to my own life. In the past year and a half, I have dealt with a job transition and the obligatory financial stress that accompanies such a transition, four months of unemployment, starting a business, managing another business, hiring employees, replacing employees, and balancing all of the above with being a husband and father. It wasn't easy.

When I lost my job in the spring of 2005, people questioned me because I would not get angry at those who were causing my problems. Although I was mad, I refused to act on my anger. The hardest thing in the world, sometimes, is to pray for someone who has wronged you intentionally. I prayed anyway and I struggled to maintain a positive outlook. God was telling me not to cling to anger.

I never doubted that God had a plan for me and that he was shaping me for something better. After a few months of soul-searching I got a call from a company I had interviewed with months earlier. I had wanted that job at the time so that I could leave my company early, before my job expired at the end of the fiscal year. It did not happen. This time, months later and unexpectedly, the company offered me a consulting job. I accepted the offer in order to stop the bleeding (my wife hated that phrase, but we were spending our savings quickly at that point).

Once I took the job, it turned out that it was not the perfect situation I had imagined it to be months earlier. I am thankful for the experience, but I am also thankful that God allowed me to see WHY he had not allowed me to have that job at the time. Within a week or so, I got a call from a freelance client who was starting a new company - and they wanted me to run it for them. By the end of the year, I had a stable job and, despite months of unemployment, had made a better income for the year than I would have made if I had never changed jobs. I don't mention this to brag but to illustrate a point. I didn't do it - God did. He provided for my family in His own way and in His own perfect time. The lesson I had learned was to let Him lead.

In the prayer above, I highlighted the part about accepting hardship as a pathway to peace. It caught my attention as we recited the prayer because I have seen others in the group turn to Christ in the midst of difficulty. I believe He used my experiences to shape me to be a better servant.

We don't have to get our lives straight before we approach God. In times of trouble, God pulls us closer to Him. In the last year, I have become more involved in my church, its ministries, and I have been on an Emmaus walk. Although I cannot say I enjoyed the difficulties from a year ago, I am thankful for them because they drew me closer to God. I am thankful that He lifted me up and gave me the wisdom to know the difference.

I didn't set out to write a testimony when I wrote this. I had intended to write a short piece about seeing God in the little details in life. Hopefully, I have done both.

My Spotlight on Locust and Honey

2006-08-06T15:13:00.000-05:00

I was recently featured on the Locust and Honey blog of John the Methodist. Thanks for including me and I am humbled that anyone cares to read what I have to say.

Rapture Teaching – Is it Harming the Church?

2006-07-18T01:06:00.000-05:00

Perhaps you have seen the bumper stickers that claim "this vehicle will be empty in case of rapture." It’s a nice testament of the driver's faith, but is it misguided?

I am not going to attempt to explain the wide range of rapture teachings in the church today nor do I plan to endorse one theory over another. I do have a belief on the matter, but it is not relevant to my faith. It’s an interesting study, but that is all it should be. We can save those debates for another day.

The problem with the focus on rapture teachings in the church is that we have created an entire generation of people who expect to be whisked away in the twinkling of an eye when the going gets rough. Whether that happens or whether it is pop theology, does it breed complacency in the church?

It is good to study prophecy, but are pastors fulfilling prophecy by talking about it? Are we becoming a lukewarm church because we are so focused on prophecy that we forget the great commission? Have we forgotten that our purpose is God given and that we are here to live as the body of Christ and not to sit around ignoring the world around us?

God didn’t command us to sit on our thumbs waiting for Him to come get us. He gave us lives to live and missions to tend. We should focus on living as Christians and allow God to work out the end in His own perfect time. He’s going to do that anyway.

People often talk about signs pointing to the end. It is difficult to watch the news and not think there may be some validity to their arguments. Throughout history, we have had good times and bad times. We have endured disasters and celebrated triumphs. We have had wars, famines, feasts, and prosperity. God has always been present. God’s purpose has never changed. By convincing ourselves that we are living in the end times, are we taking our eyes off of our mission?

It is good to believe that Jesus is coming soon. He said he was. The point is to tell other people that same message of hope. What if, like two thousand years worth of believers before us, Jesus doesn't return in our lifetimes? It would be a waste of our faith to sit and do nothing for Christ. After all, Jesus didn’t come to offer salvation to the saved, he came to save the lost. Now, it’s our job to tell them. He’ll come when He is ready.

Standing in the Need of Prayer

2006-07-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have fallen behind on several things, one of which is this blog. I enjoy writing because it clears my head and helps me focus my own thoughts. This blog has helped me give a lot more thought to issues that are important to me - faith, family, and other things that I didn't even write about. However, I am getting behind on much more important writing.

In my prayer life, I have devoted time each day to keeping a prayer journal. Well, I had been devoting time to a prayer journal, but even that has fallen to the side. For months, I set aside time each day to write down my thoughts and pray about them. It is very rewarding.

Keeping a prayer journal is not a mandate from above, it is simply a way for me to set aside time and focus on my thoughts and remember other people's needs as well as my own. It is a time to reflect on the good things in my life, and I am thankful for those things.

Some people complain that writing your prayers down is a way of testing God or keeping score. Not for me. Setting aside time to write down my prayers each day is a way to develop the good habit of setting aside time each day for God. That's a good habit. Putting it in writing is a way to keep myself accountable - a physical reminder to focus. God doesn't need help in that area, but I do.

I have seen many prayers answered in the time that I have kept my journal. Some of them were for me and many were for other people. There is an old gospel song called "Standing in the Need of Prayer" that reminds me of life. Aren't we all in need of prayer? If you set aside time each day to focus on God, don't forget to say a prayer for those of us who are standing in the need of prayer. We all need it, but not everyone knows to ask.

You Get What You Expect

2006-05-10T20:22:00.000-05:00

Do you know this person? Are you this person?

I used to think I was cursed because people always came to me with their problems. I couldn't solve them, but I could certainly provide a comforting word and once I learned that I didn't need to solve everyone else's problems, I began to realize that this was a gift and not a curse. It is a blessing to have other people look to you for comfort.

Nevertheless, it can be frustrating at times to deal with people who dwell on the negative. Sure, everyone has problems, trials, and tests from time to time in life - that is how we grow as people.

I have come to believe that people dwell on negative things because of weak faith. I don't say that to judge anyone, because I have several friends I care a lot about who are kind people but are consumed by negative outlooks. You probably know someone who is the same way.

One of my friends maintained a revolving war with debt, divorce, illness, career problems, and on and on. Being a codependent personality, I have to fight the temptation to get right in the middle of someone else's problems (SEPs). The best thing you can do for a negative person is to try to show them a positive side to their story. However, you have to be careful not to let them plant their seed of negativity in your life.

Faith is a good place to start. Faith is the belief that good prevails even when you cannot see good approaching. When you meet someone who is always moving from crisis to crisis, try talking to them about faith. God will allow hardship in life, but the key is to learn from your trials and grow in your faith. If you expect nothing from life but the next crisis, you are robbing yourself of a blessing. If your faith is strong enough, you can move mountains. If your faith is based in negative expectations, how can you expect anything other than more pain?

Life is not perfect and there will be bad days. There will also be good days. You get what you expect.

Immigration

2006-05-01T18:14:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest issues in our country, presently, is the issue of immigration. As Christians, we have an opportunity to lead by example. The question is, which direction shall we go?

The Bible is filled with examples of kindness toward aliens in strange lands. Remember, it says to the Israelites in Leviticus, that you were aliens in Egypt (Leviticus 19:34). We are instructed to show kindness to aliens living among us and treat them as we wish to be treated. Further, it says to leave enough food behind in your crops so that passers-by will find enough to eat (Leviticus 23:22).

However, the Bible tells us that aliens must abide by the same laws as the citizens of the country they enter. A quick search of an online Bible will show numerous passages that reference the treatment of aliens. I use crosswalk.com as my online Bible, but there are several good sources.

The Bible also tells us that we are to abide by the laws given to us by our leaders. Romans 13:1 tells us that we are to submit to the government because the authority to rule comes from God. Sometimes, when looking at the state of politics in the world, it is easy to forget that there is a purpose beyond our own.

The issue of immigration puts the Christian in an interesting position. On one hand, we are commanded to obey the laws of our land and on the other, we are told to show compassion to strangers in our homeland. So, if we cannot provide comfort to an alien (read that to mean illegal alien) without breaking the law, then the solution must come from Christians in government.

Perhaps we are to petition our leaders for laws that are compassionate toward the aliens, but sensitive to the needs of those who are here legally. Amnesty is not going to work, and neither is mass deportation. Perhaps church and government can work together to reach the needy in this growing segment of our population.

Perhaps we can develop ministries to teach language skills, courses in citizenship, and reach out to a community that is often in hiding. Let's not encourage illegal immigration, but let's assist the government and our communities by helping create legal citizens out of the aliens who are already here. Let's close our borders, but welcome those at our gates.

Personally, I would like to see our laws respected and obeyed. Our nation is a nation of immigrants and we should welcome legal immigrants with open arms. Illegal immigrants should respect our laws and be punished if they do not. We are to love our neighbor no matter who they are.

Thought for the Day

2006-04-29T21:46:00.000-05:00

As I was leading my small group in Celebrate Recovery this past week, I thought of something worth sharing. Often, we are the stumbling blocks in our own lives, preventing our own spiritual growth.

If there is something in your life that is holding you back – a mistake in your past – let it go. Don't go through life punishing yourself or refusing to forgive yourself. It will cause you pain.

Jesus died to forgive your sins. Accept that forgiveness. Strive to live His purpose in your life today. There is no promise of tomorrow and yesterday is never coming back.

Personal Jesus

2006-04-08T22:44:00.000-05:00

The detractors are at it again.

A few of days ago, I saw a man on television claiming to know the whereabouts of a couple of letters he alleges where written by Jesus to the Sanhedrin. Yes, THAT Jesus.

Recently, Christians have been bombarded by claims from “experts” who have information they claim contains the real truth about Jesus, the church, or some other biblical event. Whether it is The Da Vinci Code alleging some great plot by the church, or the Jesus Seminar denying the deity of Christ (or claiming he was not resurrected but was eaten by dogs), these so-called experts get a lot of attention from the secular media even though they never offer any proof.

Why?

In this latest attack on people of faith, Jesus allegedly writes to the Sanhedrin and claims he is not the Son of God, but is just simply filled with the spirit. Of course, all of this hype is leading up to the latest novel about the church keeping secrets from the world to build up the image of Christ. It will be a best seller, but let us pray that seekers who find it will be led to read the Bible as a result instead of taking fiction as fact.

The man on the news, whose name I cannot remember, claims to have seen the papyrus letters which were found under a house in Israel in the 1960’s. Never mind that experts testify that papyrus could not have survived in such a hostile environment. Never mind the fact that the letters were written in Aramaic, and the man cannot read that language. So, how does he know what they say? He also claims that Jesus survived the crucifixion and was aided by Pilate in this deception.

It sounds like good fiction, actually. Unfortunately, there are those out there who will be willing to accept it blindly. Instead of developing a personal relationship with Jesus, modern culture often encourages a spirituality that creates a Jesus who conforms to us.

It’s interesting that so many people when they are seeking spiritual answers in life will turn to Gnostic ideas about Christ. Why is it that people want to believe there is some hidden knowledge that they must find in order to understand God? Why is it that there are so many people willing to publish their own ideas on that hidden knowledge?

There are a lot of things in the universe that we simply do not know, but the secret of salvation is not among those things. Pray that God’s grace will be revealed to all who are seeking Him so that they do not stumble trying to create their own version of Jesus.

Not Guilty!

2006-03-25T16:15:00.000-06:00

I spoke to a new friend recently who was recommitting his life to Christ. He complained that the Christian life is hard. He is right.

We talked about some of our personal faults and how we pay more attention. In the past, we might have done these things without giving a thought to the impact our actions had on the people around us. My friend mentioned that there are so many things in his life he wants to change that he feels he may never be the person he wants to be.

His words made me think. It is a lot like the Jews of Jesus’ time who were so focused on religious law that they could not see redemption staring them in the face. How many people never approach God because they feel they can never please him?

Easter, the most Holy of Christian holidays, is less than a month away. Let’s not forget the sacrifice made on our behalf. One popular modern Bible translation presents Romans 3:22 in a way that says God acquits us of our sins and that he declares us “not guilty”. Interesting that it never says we are “innocent”.

We are not innocent of our sins. However, for those who accept the gift of salvation, the price has already be paid on our behalf. Another friend said recently that refusing to approach God because of your sins is like telling God that his sacrifice is not good enough for you.

I guess it is a good thing I am not God. That would make me angry.

Don’t wait until you are right with God before you approach him – you will never approach him. We are all sinners who fall short. Instead, approach God and let him redeem you. Learn from your mistakes and allow God to shape you.

The Christian life is hard, but it is worth the effort.

My First Ash Wednesday!

2006-03-01T14:46:00.000-06:00

I turned 40 years old this past Fall. 40 is a significant number in the Bible. The Genesis flood was accompanied by 40 days and nights of rain. The Jews wandered through their temptation in the desert for 40 years. Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness fasting and contemplating his mission. It is this last one that is significant on this day.

So, you may ask, how is this my first Ash Wednesday? I have lived through 39 previous Ash Wednesdays in my life, but this year was different. For the first time ever, I joined millions of Christians around the world by having my forehead anointed with ashes.

As Christians, we are to try to be Christ-like in our lives. Such is the meaning of the word. We all fall short, of course. On Ash Wednesday, we take a moment to reflect on our lives and on the ways we have fallen short and we ask God to help us reshape our lives to better serve Him. We repent. In ancient times, people covered themselves with ashes in mourning and also to signify repentance from sins. By anointing our heads with ashes, Christians publicly confess that we are not perfect, that we have flaws, and that we want to do better.

In Christ’s life, he spent forty days in the wilderness fasting and praying. During this time, Satan tempted Jesus to get him to abandon his purpose. During the 40 days leading up to Easter, many people abstain from certain things in their lives to remember this temptation. Symbolically, we are in the wilderness. This period is known as Lent and leads up to Easter, the most sacred of all days to Christians. With the resurrection, Jesus defeated sin and death and made salvation through grace possible for all men willing to accept it.

Significantly, Jesus’ earthly ministry lasted another 40 days until he ascended to Heaven.

That’s a layman’s nutshell version of the meaning of this day. I have always known it, but I have never observed it for the Christian experience it really is. It is a time to look to the sky and contemplate Christ’s purpose for our lives just as he contemplated his mission during his spiritual retreat.

Book Review, Of Sorts -The Renovaré Spiritual Formation Bible

2006-03-01T14:18:00.000-06:00

I love Bibles.

Lately, I have resorted to reading verses online through one of the many online Bibles at Crosswalk.com. However, there is nothing like sitting down and spending a late night with God’s word in true book form. This past Fall, I purchased the Spiritual Formation Bible from Renovaré. It is in the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) translation, which I had never purchased previously.

I have truly enjoyed this translation and the accompanying lessons included in it and on the Renovaré website. Since I work in publishing, I was attracted to the easy to read, clean layout. My only complaint in that regard is that the pages near the center of the thick binding get lost in the gutter but maybe they will fix that in the next printing.

There are rumors that the Spiritual Formation Bible is being released in a leather-bound version soon. Those of you looking for birthday gifts for me (Sept. 8) might take that as a hint. Or not.

If you enjoy the NRSV, or you have never read this version that is very popular with scholars but easy for the lay disciple, consider checking out this release from Harper Publishing.

Celebrate Recovery - There is a Time to Heal

2006-02-12T13:40:00.000-06:00

Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven

Late last year, my pastor challenged the congregation at Clearbranch UMC to make a difference in our lives and in our community by getting involved in a ministry opportunity. I have always been the type of person who wants to help people, so I decided to give our new Celebrate Recovery ministry a look.

I have to admit, I was a bit naïve to think that I was going to just show up and start helping people change their lives. In fact, I learned so much about myself in the first few weeks that I feel like I am becoming a new person through my participation in the program.

I have made a lot of new friends through this ministry, and this has been a real blessing because I have not been at Clearbranch very long.

One of the leaders, who I am privileged to assist with the men’s chemically dependent small group, said something very profound.

“People often won’t seek help until the pain becomes greater than the fear."

How true.

Celebrate Recovery has dinner, a praise service, small groups, and a café social every Friday night at our church. It is open to anyone with a “hurt, habit, or hang up."

There are small groups for:
Adult Children of the Chemically Addicted
Abuse
Anger - Men's & Women's Groups
Chemically Dependent - Men's & Women's Groups
Codependent - Men's & Women's Groups
Codependent Women in a Relationship with a Sexually Addicted Man
Eating Disorders - Women's Group
Financial Recovery - Men's & Women's Group
Food Addiction - Women's Group
Love and Relationship Addiction - Women's Group
Sexual Addiction - Men's & Women's Group
Women in Recovery from Sexual / Physical / Emotional Abuse

Celebrate Recovery meets every Friday at Clearbranch UMC in Trussville/Argo, AL. Please feel free to join us. Call 205-655-9414 for more information.

Ps – I designed the poster (above)

Is Your Pastor Insane?

2006-01-14T11:14:00.000-06:00

If insanity can be defined as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results, can you claim you Pastor is insane? If not your pastor, is your Church insane?

It’s something to think about. In respect to that definition, are we not all insane when it comes to certain things in our lives? Why should religion be any different?

I grew up in a Baptist church with a thriving youth group, a beautiful sanctuary, and a ministry for everyone of every age in the congregation. However, the church was located in a declining area of town and it did NOTHING to reach out to the community around it.

There were some wonderful people in that church who showed up every time the doors were open. They were involved in leadership roles in the church and in the community. They had a great impact on my life and I would not be the person I am today if not for the attention they gave to me as a child. But, they refused to change, to reach out, to adapt, and now the church is defunct.

In today's seeker culture, we must respond to the challenge and reach out to seekers while providing substance for believers. It is not enough to be the Christian themed social club. Churches must provide the milk for new believers but must also provide a path to the meat of the faith. If we get to the point that our focus is taken away from the whole community, we have lost.

You cannot place all of the responsibility on your pastor or on a select group of leaders within the church. We must embrace the concept of the ministry of all believers and get involved where needed so that seekers who wander in do not wander back out. Christians need to live the Great Commission and help those who God sends into our fold grow into mature adherents of the faith.

Spreading Hatred in God's Name

2006-01-07T10:23:00.000-06:00

The “Reverend” Fred Phelps and his army of contempt are at it again. This time, they have decided to picket the memorial services of the 12 miners who died in West Virginia. Why? According to their press release, West Virginia is a state of "fag lovers" and God killed the miners, sent them to Hell, and laughed about it.

Remind me again why Christians get a hard time in our culture?

I hesitate to write about this man and his followers because I don’t want to give any undue attention to their cause. On his website, www.godhatesfags.com, he states clearly that the Bible preaches hate.

I’m reminded of a quote from Thomas Sowell that someone shared with me recently. "It is usually futile to try to talk facts and analysis to people who are enjoying a sense of moral superiority in their ignorance."

To those unfortunate enough to see the Phelpsians celebrate pain and suffering, please don't judge Christianity by their actions. They also issued press releases thanking God for the tornados in Indiana, thanking God for aids, and declaring that all U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq are burning in Hell.

Nice.

God does have wrath and, according to prophecy, will act upon it again one day. He certainly dislikes sin, all sin, and promises a dire destination for those who don’t repent. However, he never instructs the ignorant among us to celebrate the pain and sorrow of our neighbors. Certainly, we should never rejoice over souls that have been lost.

Jesus reached out and embraced the sinners he met in his own walk on earth. He fought the hardest against the pious, legalistic, church leaders who sought to condemn rather than redeem. I fear that people like Phelps do more to turn people away from seeking Christ than they could ever do to spread the gospel.

If the Phelpsians had been present as church elders were attempting to stone the sinful woman (John 8:7), would they have been Christ-like in chiding the stone throwers, or would they have been celebrating the woman’s impending death, taunting her family at her funeral, and thanking God for killing someone they hate?

Christians do not celebrate anyone entering Hell. It may be hard to do, but we should pray for Reverend Phelps. He might claim he doesn’t want our prayers, but we aren’t praying to him but rather for him. May God show him the error of his ways before it is too late.

The Book of Daniel: a Review, of Sorts

2006-01-07T10:19:00.000-06:00

Last night, I had every intention of watching the NBC show The Book of Daniel and delivering a review on this blog. I did watch the first hour of the show, but I have to confess that I am a HUGE fan of Battlestar Galactica and The Book of Daniel could not hold my interest enough to keep me from flipping channels.

I had heard a lot of controversy about The Book of Daniel but was unwilling to condemn it based on the protests (or praise it based on the hype). I should point out, also, that my background is in public relations and I don’t consider negative press to be a bad thing in and of itself. Many, like me, probably would never have heard of the show or watched it if not for the protests. Score one for public relations.

That being said, I do not agree with those who say that the show casts our Lord Jesus Christ in a bad light. It does, unfortunately, cast him in a bad show. The family is too dysfunctional, even for the purpose of satire.

Some may object and say that the depiction of Jesus is too tolerant of sin. Since we all fall short, it's not a bad thing to imagine that Jesus is willing to give everyone another chance. We are all sinners, and he is still willing to speak to any of us. Some may object to his contemporary manner, but does anyone really think Christ speaks in King James English? Some may not like that he cracks jokes like a wise cracking fraternity brother, but the Bible contains examples of satire and sarcasm too.

So, what is the problem with the show that caused a minor stir among some Christians? Perhaps we have come to expect a jab from pop culture and braced ourselves for another. The real problem with the show is that it isn't very good.

I may watch again, when it moves to a shorter format, and doesn't conflict with Battlestar Galactica. I hope it gets better because I think it is good for those who may be seeking answers in life to see Jesus as a friend. For most believers, the show is not going to offer much of substance. However, if even one seeker finds Christ then maybe it isn’t so bad.

Maybe I shouldn’t be disappointed in the show, but I am. After so many efforts (real and imagined) of late to remove references to Jesus from our culture, it’s good to see him getting work at all. Funny that Jesus turns out to be the most redeeming character in the show, but redeemer has always been his role. He was born to play it.

Happy New Year

2006-01-02T00:55:00.000-06:00

It’s almost obligatory to have a Happy New Year message on your blog. It’s nice to wish good things upon your readers. For me, it’s also nice to imagine that I have readers to send such greetings. It’s a circle.

Holidays, both secular and religious, are filled with traditions. What are your New Year’s traditions? Depending on where you live, it might be eating peas and greens in the belief that such a meal brings you wealth and luck. In most places, you will find people who make New Year’s resolutions. Are such resolutions good for Christians? It really depends on the promise, whether the promise is worth making, and whether we intend to keep the promise. Maybe you will resolve to get out of debt, to exercise, to eat better, to lose weight, or accomplish any other thing that is important to you.

Most of us break our resolutions. We’re human. I recently got rid of a treadmill I purchased after a resolution to get in better shape. Perhaps you have done the same. We mean well, but why do we make promises that we don’t intend to keep? Maybe it’s because we feel better after simply identifying the areas of our lives that we wish to improve, but we make no real covenant to improve those areas.

There is the important word. Covenant. The Bible speaks often of covenants. Christ brought a new covenant to all of us. He promised to forgive our sins and atoned for them with his own blood. That’s pretty powerful. What if you had to make your New Year’s covenant as a promise to God? Perhaps I would never have bought the treadmill.

As 2006 begins, let’s all make a covenant to spend more time with God. That’s really an easy promise to make, because he is always with us. No matter what other resolutions you make for the year, if you promise to spend more time with God daily, you will find the rest of your promises easier to keep.

For the new year, I am not going to make any other promise other than to spend more time improving my faith. I want to get out of debt this year, I want expand my business, I want to do more to help others, and I want to spend time with my family. I can’t promise to do all of those things on my own. From the starting point of faith, however, I am going to pray that God will bless me with opportunity.

Deuteronomy 29:9
Therefore, observe the words of this covenant and follow them, so that you will succeed in everything you do.

Why Front Porch Mood Swings?

2006-01-01T23:36:00.000-06:00

Some people have asked me about the name of my blog. I wish there was one clear answer. I’ve always loved music. I played drums since I was a small child and I have nearly 800 cds of a wide variety of music. When I was a kid, I would dream of being in a band and imagine what I would play, sing, or write if I was in a band. First, of course, I had to have a name for the band. So, every time I thought of something that sounded like an eclectic name for a band, I would write it down.

Some of those names made their way onto mix tapes in college, and cds after college, as a way to identify them as my own. It was also a good opportunity to create a fake label for the fake band whose name was on the tape. I work in advertising, so creativity is in my blood (most days). Front Porch Mood Swings was originally one of the imaginary bands I fronted. If you are thinking this sounds like a colossal waste of time, you are right.

I’ve always been an avid reader as well. I have started writing, and subsequently abandoned writing, more novels than some people have read. That's not many, really. You’ll never guess what one of my unfinished masterpieces is named. Now, it’s the name of my blog. At least a blog has an excuse for never being finished.

The name struck me as funny, originally, because it sounded very Southern. Down here, we enjoy sitting on the porch and we tend to be eclectic. My blog is about nothing in particular. It is about whatever I am thinking that day, and whatever I feel like sharing. It could be about religion (one of my favorite topics), music, books, politics, or almost anything.

So, that is why my blog is named what it is named. Let it mean whatever you want it to mean. Just remember the name in case I really do finish that book. I’ll let you know. Until then, thanks for sharing in this little piece of internet real estate.

15 Minutes of Fame Comes to an End

2005-12-13T21:56:00.000-06:00

Romans 13:4-5 For government is God's servant to you for good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God's servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath, but also because of your conscience.

Tookie Williams lived on death row for nearly 26 years. His first victim, Albert Owens, was 26 years old when he was murdered execution style in 1979. I mention Owens by name because I think the comparison to his age and the speed of the justice system is significant. Albert Owens would have been 52 years old, but he didn’t make it. Williams also murdered a family of Taiwanese immigrants, The Yangs, who would all have reached retirement age by now. He didn’t just murder them he celebrated their deaths. According to reports, Williams, danced around his victims repeating racist remarks, laughing, and mocking them as they fought for their last breathes.

Tookie Williams was nominated for the Nobel Peace prize five times.

I’m no great fan of the death penalty. It should be used sparingly. I don't celebrate the taking of any life. I want to tell myself that people can change. I couldn’t get through the day, some days, without my belief in grace and redemption. Some people claim that Tookie Williams changed from cold-blooded murdered to author of children’s books. Good, but this story is not about Tookie Williams. The story should be about Owens, and the Yang family, and the countless other victims who have been tortured and killed by Tookie’s disciples, the Crips gang.

According to many people who knew him in prison, Williams did not change. Sure, he wrote a few unpopular children's books, but that's not enough. He was often in fights, causing trouble, instructing gang members, and threatening guards. To some people, that does not matter. I can respect someone’s genuine belief that the death penalty is wrong, but don’t tell me he was a good guy. Don't tell me he was a victim.

I saw a woman on television claiming that she was going to prove that Williams was innocent and that Governor Schwarzenegger was the real murderer. I don’t think so. Williams was convicted by a jury and sentenced by a court. His appeals failed then, and they failed again because no new reason to spare him was presented. In 26 years, no one rushed to his defense with new evidence. No one cared until there was a political point to be made.

It must be difficult for a governor, any governor, to enforce the law and proceed with a state execution. What does it feel like to know that a life will continue or end depending on your actions? That thought never crossed the mind of Tookie Williams. He pulled the trigger. He never apologized and went to his death unrepentant. He even refused spiritual guidance in his last moments.

It must be frightening to sit in a cell knowing that you are about to die. Tookie Williams had 26 years to ponder his life and his death. That’s 26 years longer than his victims were given. What would they have done with their lives?

We’ll never know.

Please don’t dis the Baby Jesus

2005-12-02T00:58:00.000-06:00

Can I say it? Merry Christmas!

If my honest use of the word “Christmas” has not caused you to wither away in disgust, then stick with me a bit longer. I have watched, with great amusement, the debate over the use of the word Christmas during the last few weeks. What I have to say may surprise you.

I don’t have a problem with stores greeting customers with the phrase “Happy Holidays”. I just don’t find it offensive. It’s dishonest, but not offensive. Let me ‘splain this one to you Lucy.

A lot of people celebrate holidays during this time of year. Christians, as you may have heard, celebrate the Christmas holiday (which stands for Holy Day). Our Jewish neighbors celebrate Hanukkah during this time of year. It’s a beautiful holiday celebrating a miracle of the same God we share. Our Muslim neighbors have a holiday. For all I know, atheists may celebrate Nothingmas and sing non-sectarian carols all the Newdow day. It doesn’t matter. It’s just good business to issue a blanket greeting to someone when they enter your store.

However, let’s be honest with ourselves. The whole argument is a stunt designed to get attention from a populace that has the collective attention span of a moth. What was I saying? Oh yeah.

I’d give all of the money in my pocket (a quarter, by the way) to have been in the meeting where the politically correct dufus announced that his store would sell “holiday trees” this year. I don’t want this to sound insensitive (yes I do), but they are called Christmas trees. No other Holy Day celebration involves putting lights and shiny things on a fake tree in your living room. Calling your Christmas trees “holiday trees” isn’t insulting to Christians - of which I am one - it is insulting to all of your customers to presume they are impressed by such shallow political correctness.

I'm not asking anyone to be disrespectful. Be honest with your customers. When they get out of their cars and they see the green and red decorations around your store, they know you are saying “holiday” and meaning “Christmas”. When they see the fat guy in the red suit, they don’t think he’s Hanukkah Harry. When they enter your store and the muzak is playing holiday carols, they figure out pretty quick that those are not Buddha ballads or Solstice Songs. They are Christmas carols.

Christmas is big business. Why else would malls start decorating for Christmas right after the 4th of July every year? I live in Alabama. It's a pretty place but I cannot relate to dashing through the snow when it is still 85 degrees outside on a cold day. Obviously there is a financial reward to the holiday season.

Be honest with your customers. If you want to be inclusive to other traditions - and you should - then do something to attract people from other traditions if it is advantageous to your business. This is a free market society (sort of) after all. But if you are gearing up for the Christmas season, decorating for the Christmas season, and hoping to make most of your sales for the year during the Christmas season - then admit that you celebrate the Christmas season. Your customers know what the trees are for and they are not offended. ;)

America is the world’s only true melting pot culture. That’s what makes us great. We can respect different beliefs and still be united under one flag. We don’t need wishy washy symbolism and politically correct nonsense to act as the self esteem police to shield us from other ideas. What we need is a little common sense. If you ask your customers to spend their money with you for Christmas, then don’t pretend it isn’t Christmas. if you don’t want to acknowledge Christmas, then don’t decorate for it, don’t advertise for it, and don’t accept profits from it. Simple enough.

Americans of every background would appreciate the honesty.

Hurricane Katrina

2005-08-31T00:07:00.000-05:00

My power was off today and I was in a bad mood. The air conditioner wasn’t running, the coffee was getting cold, and the beer was getting warm. Now, I am ashamed of myself. As I watch the coverage of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation, I realize that I should be counting my blessings rather than ranting about the inconvenience of losing electricity for less than ten hours.

Since our electricity was out, I had not seen any video until lunch today when I took my two kids into the city nearby to get a sandwich at a coffee shop and meet some business associates. At first, when my daughter, who is four, said “how awful”, I assumed she was complaining about her sandwich. She usually does. My son, who is a year older, replied “Is that from Katrina?” It was then that I turned around to see the images of the devastation on CNN. As much as a father wants to shelter his children from the horrors of the world around them, I was proud that they understood. Yes, it certainly is “awful”.

I saw a report of a man who held onto his wife as their house was washing away beneath them. She slipped away and disappeared in the raging water and wind. According to the report, her last words were “take care of the kids”. He wept as he told the story. He is not alone. Hundreds of lives have been lost, and thousands more have been changed forever.

My thoughts returned to that man and his family tonight after I tucked my kids into bed. Why were they still in their home when evacuation orders had been given? What emotional scars will those children carry with them forever as the images of their mother slipping away remain embedded in their minds? Not to judge them, but it's a fair question.

Already, people are making a political point about the hurricane. I read one report from a hate blogger who said it was Bush’s fault because he ignored global warming. How so? I’m no Bush apologist (some may disagree with this self-assessment), although I think he is a decent person. I fail to see how a treaty (Kyoto), which was defeated before he came into office, has anything whatsoever to do with cyclical changes in hurricane trends. Anything to turn the pain of others into a political point, I guess.

Another appalling image from New Orleans is the looting that is being widely reported. I have heard reports of television reporters filming it and even catching police officers joining in on the thievery. I didn’t see this myself and I don’t mention it to smear the 99% of police officers who do a noble job every day. Perhaps one of the thieves who managed to carry off “essential” items like bread, milk, or a computer will one day read this. The loss of hundreds of lives is not a prime opportunity to get the kid a new ten-speed Schwinn. I hope the police catch every one of these low-life thieves and put them in jail for a long time. I hope Bush sends troops in to help them stop it.

Let’s keep in mind that we are human beings.

So, what do you tell your kids when they see such “awful" images? I’ve taught them, and continue to teach myself, that God has a purpose for all things. I sincerely believe this to be true, but I don’t pretend to know God’s mind or to understand his methods. It’s a matter of faith to understand that life is full of tests and that we grow when we overcome challenges. Perhaps we as a society need to grow in some way. I know that America is a generous nation – perhaps the most generous nation ever on Earth - and I know that we will donate money and time to help our neighbors rebuild. Then what? Then we will likely forget them until the next disaster. That’s not a knock on our great country, but a simple fact of human nature all over the globe.

To all of my friends affected by the storm, know that my prayers are with you.

This isn’t the topic I wanted to write about in my first post on my site. I typically try to offer a different spin and a bit of humor to a variety of subjects. However, since this is based on my Front Porch Mood Swings, I had to write about what I was thinking at the time. It is what it is. I’m starting to appreciate the lukewarm beer now.