This morning was a fairly normal morning, except that last night we prayed for little Gracie to be delivered of willful disobedience and for Michelle and I to be much more disciplined in our respective responsibilities around the house.
And in the first minutes of the morning, after being shocked by the little girl's tenacity and the fact that she was wide awake after 7 hours of sleep, I pondered a few refreshingly different thoughts.
First was clearing the tension from my shoulders for all my sitting for hours at my computer doing things like this typing. I moved my arms a certain way - actually the way Gary Oldman did for his character, Zorg, in The Fifth Element, when he was encouraging the monster, "What doesn't kill you will only make you stronger..." Not true for their characters, of course... Ha ha!
- - - -
2nd Peter 1:2 Grace to you, and peace be multiplied in the acknowledgement of God and of Jesus our Lord! 3 As all things to us His divine power (the things pertaining unto life and piety) hath given, through the acknowledgement of him who did call us through glory and worthiness, 4 through which to us the most great and precious promises have been given, that through these ye may become partakers of a divine nature, having escaped from the corruption in the world in desires.
5 And this same also--all diligence having brought in besides, superadd in your faith the worthiness, and in the worthiness the knowledge, 6 and in the knowledge the temperance, and in the temperance the endurance, and in the endurance the piety, 7 and in the piety the brotherly kindness, and in the brotherly kindness the love; 8 for these things being to you and abounding, do make you neither inert nor unfruitful in regard to the acknowledging of our Lord Jesus Christ, 9 for he with whom these things are not present is blind, dim-sighted, having become forgetful of the cleansing of his old sins; 10 wherefore, the rather, brethren, be diligent to make stedfast your calling and choice, for these things doing, ye may never stumble, 11 for so, richly shall be superadded to you the entrance into the age-during reign of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (Young's Literal Translation)
- - - -
And then my mind tripped over to making my own Fifth Element superhero movie - written for Gary Oldman (this time as a good guy, of course). But "SuperDuperPerson" would be cast as an extremely weak person who is saved by our Creator, Yeshua, after a very sacred, mystical pilgrimage to the ancient Holy Land of the Jews, Israel. He is catapulted into holiness. It is strangely accessible to him and enables him to do many good things for many people. He prays and he does.... prays and does... and things change! Instead of one huge, hollywood wrestling with his demons, he wrestles on a weekly basis with issues from his past - flashbacks included. The heroic redemption is applied to his memories as well as to his gymnastic prowess and emotional involvement in the world around him.
My son asks at this point, as I just shared this movie idea with the family, "That sounds really cool! And it's not just for grownups - It's for kids, too?" Yup, I assure him. "And it's not too scary?" Nope!
But I hadn't thought through how to portray this "superduperperson's" emotional flashbacks. Perhaps they could be cryptic and subtle... focusing on the victory over them, rather than on the struggle (which is such a hollyweird thing to do - focus on the "darkness" of a thing!)
Alternative names - "Light Being," "Fortress," "El Shaddai," "Not So Beautiful Hero," "Gimme a Chance, I'll Show Ya" (this from the Show Me state - ha ha!), "It Ain't Over" (with classic line at climax - "it ain't over til I say it's over." then the required, "ok. it's over." when the bad guy is canned.
What about the protagonist studying Krav Maga! (without mentioning the name of the style in the movie.) He could even take a gun at one point in the movie! Heck, it could be a Krav Maga practical application flick!
But how does he have a family life? Address this satisfactorily.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Monday, August 23, 2004
Vision in Me.
Tom and friends,
This one came out of a place in eternity, so I wanted to share it with a few other families, Tom. Hope you don't mind! :D
"Forerunners" - the ones who, like John the Baptist, are "going ahead to prepare the way of the Lord - saying "CHANGE YOUR WAYS! THE KING IS COMING!" - are defined by their vision (which is only from above)... not by their strength. So, to be that world-changer, we SO need to lean on our vision instead of on our strength!
From May 2004 Music Tech Magazine
"Not many of us - given the choice - wouldn't jack in the day job if we were guaranteed a successful career making or recording music. But the problem here is that the success of any possible career change can rarely be guaranteed, and when it comes down to gambling the next month's mortgage payment on your ability to turn something that perhaps - for the moment, at least - is just a hobby into a way of paying the bills is just too much of a risk to take.
"That's not to say it can't be done, of course. And I'm well aware that at least one in three of you reading this column are already gainfully employed in the music business in one form or another. But for the other two, a career in the industry is one of those things that you just might be aspiring to.
"If you do fall into this latter group, then consider this: there are a variety of ways of turning your music/recording talent into hard cash that don't require you to burn bridges with your current employer. You can have you cake and eat it too, if you're willing to put in some after-hours time (hey - you're doing it anyway), and apply a little lateral thinking. In our cover feature this issue we've spoken to a number of people who've done just that - earning money from their talent in the less obvious spheres of the music business. So if you fancy lining your pockets while making your music... read!
"Is the music technology of our day slowing you down? I don't think so! And some people are making some serious money out of it, so isn't it about time you joined the club?"
* * * *
"A life lived in fear is a life half-lived."
"Do it by heart, or let it be."
"Do what you love and the money will follow."
"Delight yourself in the Lord! He gives the desires of the heart!"
"When I run - I feel His pleasure." - Eric Liddel (Chariots of Fire)
* * * *
And your gifting, Tom Cellie, is more of the Tom Scholz (inventor, musician) variety, than, say, a Kurt Cobain. (the latter being a little too dead to do any good anyways.) Meaning... you have INVENTION in you. You have crazy tech skills - you're not just a rock star - you're a GEEK rock star!!! (Big difference.)
To quote one of my current mentors, Robert Rodriquez (SpyKids 1,2, & 3, and the El Mariachi series),
"The creative core of the work happens here at the house. From the writing, post-production and editing, music and mixing... I believe home is where the dreams are, so that's why I like to work at home."
"That's what makes (the technology we have available now) so revolutionary - the projects that you would normally shy away from (because of antiquated technologies), you'll just go do. I know so many directors who make a movie once every 4 years because they're just so tired afterwards. And they're tired of the process. The process is what drags them down and they call me and they say, 'You seem to be having fun - how can I have fun again? And it's just that the process has gotten very convoluted."
* * * *
Think, Tom, of how we do church. Convoluted. Without a plurality of leadership for accountability and variety and, even then, smart delegation of responsibilities by the power of the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor. 14:29-33), there's nothing but stale, old, convoluted and stinkin' RELIGION in a lot of buildings we call churches... with one superstar making all the decisions - not "drawing forth from their treasure chest, things both new and old" (Matt.13:52).
We are a new breed of Forerunner business-builders who are carving home-businesses out of the granite of our own grey existence and cooperating with other family businesses to build a community of believing businesses that will ROCK society down to its current, ungodly foundations.
Every family is designed to contain a unique anointing - a family legacy:
"There, in the presence of the LORD your God, you and your families will eat and enjoy everything you've worked for, because the LORD your God has blessed you. (Deuteronomy 12:7)
"This is the land inherited by the families of the tribe of Judah." (Joshua 15:20)
"...that they gave Aaron's descendants who were from the families of Kohath in the tribe of Levi. Their lot was the first one drawn." (Joshua 21:10 - Note: these are the "priests" - the peacemakers - who stand in the Presence of the Lord on behalf of the people around them - the ones whose hospitality brought God to man.)
"Solomon spoke to all Israel--to the commanders of regiments and battalions, judges, every prince, and the heads of Israel's families." (II Chronicles 1:2)
"God places lonely people in families. He leads prisoners out of prison into productive lives, but rebellious people must live in an unproductive land." (Psalms 68:6)
"Give to the LORD, you families of the nations. Give to the LORD glory and power." (Psalms 96:7)
Even in the future.... categorized by "family"
"If any of the families on the earth won't go to Jerusalem to worship the king, the LORD of Armies, then rain won't fall on them." (Zechariah 14:17)
AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD!
* * * *
And these "home businesses" strengthen the Church AND the community of that local expression of the one Church... even on a global scale in some instances!
Paul and Jan Crouch, Pat Robertson and Bruce Wilkinson (Prayer of Jabez), who is now promoting his book, The Dream Giver...
The story about Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. With the help of the Dream Giver, Ordinary begins the hardest and most rewarding journey of his life.
So here we go folks. The sky ain't even the limit! Heaven on earth or bust! And, remember, when it's about to bust, God is famously the God of the last minute!
Back to "Music Technology" and Robert Rodriguez on technology -
* * * *
"Creative people are usually the slowest to adopt new technologies and (after one initial learning curve) it's ultimately going to free them. But you'll really be UNSTOPPABLE if you become technical as well as creative."
* * * *
We say we serve Jesus - but we're not willing to find out more about Him now. Perhaps, for instance, He may prefer we use the Hebrew alliteration of His name for now - Yeshua!
And if He is going to teach the entire planet from Zion... Where is Zion? What does it mean to me and my family?
And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. (Micah 4:2)
And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one. 16 And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. (Zechariah 14: 9 and 16)
* * * *
And more importantly,
"Lord! What will You be teaching the planet in those days - 'Thou that dwellest in the gardens, the companions hearken to Thy voice: cause me to hear it!' (SOS 8:13)"
* * * *
Tom, I believe if we are "faithful in little" with the exploding technologies we are being given in these last days when "knowledge shall increase" - that we will be entrusted with much.
But faithful by His vision. Not our strength.
This one came out of a place in eternity, so I wanted to share it with a few other families, Tom. Hope you don't mind! :D
"Forerunners" - the ones who, like John the Baptist, are "going ahead to prepare the way of the Lord - saying "CHANGE YOUR WAYS! THE KING IS COMING!" - are defined by their vision (which is only from above)... not by their strength. So, to be that world-changer, we SO need to lean on our vision instead of on our strength!
From May 2004 Music Tech Magazine
"Not many of us - given the choice - wouldn't jack in the day job if we were guaranteed a successful career making or recording music. But the problem here is that the success of any possible career change can rarely be guaranteed, and when it comes down to gambling the next month's mortgage payment on your ability to turn something that perhaps - for the moment, at least - is just a hobby into a way of paying the bills is just too much of a risk to take.
"That's not to say it can't be done, of course. And I'm well aware that at least one in three of you reading this column are already gainfully employed in the music business in one form or another. But for the other two, a career in the industry is one of those things that you just might be aspiring to.
"If you do fall into this latter group, then consider this: there are a variety of ways of turning your music/recording talent into hard cash that don't require you to burn bridges with your current employer. You can have you cake and eat it too, if you're willing to put in some after-hours time (hey - you're doing it anyway), and apply a little lateral thinking. In our cover feature this issue we've spoken to a number of people who've done just that - earning money from their talent in the less obvious spheres of the music business. So if you fancy lining your pockets while making your music... read!
"Is the music technology of our day slowing you down? I don't think so! And some people are making some serious money out of it, so isn't it about time you joined the club?"
* * * *
"A life lived in fear is a life half-lived."
"Do it by heart, or let it be."
"Do what you love and the money will follow."
"Delight yourself in the Lord! He gives the desires of the heart!"
"When I run - I feel His pleasure." - Eric Liddel (Chariots of Fire)
* * * *
And your gifting, Tom Cellie, is more of the Tom Scholz (inventor, musician) variety, than, say, a Kurt Cobain. (the latter being a little too dead to do any good anyways.) Meaning... you have INVENTION in you. You have crazy tech skills - you're not just a rock star - you're a GEEK rock star!!! (Big difference.)
To quote one of my current mentors, Robert Rodriquez (SpyKids 1,2, & 3, and the El Mariachi series),
"The creative core of the work happens here at the house. From the writing, post-production and editing, music and mixing... I believe home is where the dreams are, so that's why I like to work at home."
"That's what makes (the technology we have available now) so revolutionary - the projects that you would normally shy away from (because of antiquated technologies), you'll just go do. I know so many directors who make a movie once every 4 years because they're just so tired afterwards. And they're tired of the process. The process is what drags them down and they call me and they say, 'You seem to be having fun - how can I have fun again? And it's just that the process has gotten very convoluted."
* * * *
Think, Tom, of how we do church. Convoluted. Without a plurality of leadership for accountability and variety and, even then, smart delegation of responsibilities by the power of the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor. 14:29-33), there's nothing but stale, old, convoluted and stinkin' RELIGION in a lot of buildings we call churches... with one superstar making all the decisions - not "drawing forth from their treasure chest, things both new and old" (Matt.13:52).
We are a new breed of Forerunner business-builders who are carving home-businesses out of the granite of our own grey existence and cooperating with other family businesses to build a community of believing businesses that will ROCK society down to its current, ungodly foundations.
Every family is designed to contain a unique anointing - a family legacy:
"There, in the presence of the LORD your God, you and your families will eat and enjoy everything you've worked for, because the LORD your God has blessed you. (Deuteronomy 12:7)
"This is the land inherited by the families of the tribe of Judah." (Joshua 15:20)
"...that they gave Aaron's descendants who were from the families of Kohath in the tribe of Levi. Their lot was the first one drawn." (Joshua 21:10 - Note: these are the "priests" - the peacemakers - who stand in the Presence of the Lord on behalf of the people around them - the ones whose hospitality brought God to man.)
"Solomon spoke to all Israel--to the commanders of regiments and battalions, judges, every prince, and the heads of Israel's families." (II Chronicles 1:2)
"God places lonely people in families. He leads prisoners out of prison into productive lives, but rebellious people must live in an unproductive land." (Psalms 68:6)
"Give to the LORD, you families of the nations. Give to the LORD glory and power." (Psalms 96:7)
Even in the future.... categorized by "family"
"If any of the families on the earth won't go to Jerusalem to worship the king, the LORD of Armies, then rain won't fall on them." (Zechariah 14:17)
AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD!
* * * *
And these "home businesses" strengthen the Church AND the community of that local expression of the one Church... even on a global scale in some instances!
Paul and Jan Crouch, Pat Robertson and Bruce Wilkinson (Prayer of Jabez), who is now promoting his book, The Dream Giver...
The story about Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. With the help of the Dream Giver, Ordinary begins the hardest and most rewarding journey of his life.
So here we go folks. The sky ain't even the limit! Heaven on earth or bust! And, remember, when it's about to bust, God is famously the God of the last minute!
Back to "Music Technology" and Robert Rodriguez on technology -
* * * *
"Creative people are usually the slowest to adopt new technologies and (after one initial learning curve) it's ultimately going to free them. But you'll really be UNSTOPPABLE if you become technical as well as creative."
* * * *
We say we serve Jesus - but we're not willing to find out more about Him now. Perhaps, for instance, He may prefer we use the Hebrew alliteration of His name for now - Yeshua!
And if He is going to teach the entire planet from Zion... Where is Zion? What does it mean to me and my family?
And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. (Micah 4:2)
And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one. 16 And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. (Zechariah 14: 9 and 16)
* * * *
And more importantly,
"Lord! What will You be teaching the planet in those days - 'Thou that dwellest in the gardens, the companions hearken to Thy voice: cause me to hear it!' (SOS 8:13)"
* * * *
Tom, I believe if we are "faithful in little" with the exploding technologies we are being given in these last days when "knowledge shall increase" - that we will be entrusted with much.
But faithful by His vision. Not our strength.
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Who God Is
Graham Cooke (add dot com for site) spoke about a year back here in Kansas City. I think he's from Scottland or some place where the accent sounds like Shrek... and about as funny! Anyways. He spoke about moving from one plane of experience to another... and that, when those transitions happen, we desperately need to align ourselves anew with WHO GOD IS.
Who is God to me? It's the single most important question in your life. Firstly, because He happens to be holding your atoms together by the breath of His promise. And also, because He's really, really.... REALLY nice!
So the message is that we need to lean hard upon Who God is... because what He does in our lives is NEVER predictable... but His kindness is ALWAYS predictable.
Who is God to me? It's the single most important question in your life. Firstly, because He happens to be holding your atoms together by the breath of His promise. And also, because He's really, really.... REALLY nice!
So the message is that we need to lean hard upon Who God is... because what He does in our lives is NEVER predictable... but His kindness is ALWAYS predictable.
Thursday, July 8, 2004
More o' Dat.
This thing about God - Grace. What is it?
It's the receiving and giving and living of ... beauty ...
[n] a disposition to kindness and compassion; benign good will.
[n] the free and unmerited favor or kindness of God; "there but for the grace of God go I."
[n] a sense of propriety and consideration for others.
[n] elegance and beauty of movement or expression...
I was struck by God's way of grace tonight. I could DO all manner of good. But would I be beautiful by my doing?
I am beautiful (of heart, soul, human stuff...) by God's beholding of me... not by my endeavor.
And what does it matter than I respond to that Soul-Gardener with my own sense of favor for who He is ... Giver, that He is?
It matters all, I think.
We could all strangle each other, I guess (nihilistic bomb cults ARE on the rise) ... or we could live in this
marvelous, amazing, astonishing, astounding, awe-inspiring, awesome, beguiling, bewildering, confounding, divine, dreamy, enigmatic, enjoyable, exceptional, exquisite, extraordinary, fabulous, fantastic, fascinating, formidable, glorious, golden, groovy, heavenly, immense, incomprehensible, inconceivable, incredible, indescribable, ineffable, legendary, magnificent, miraculous, mythical, noteworthy, outlandish, outstanding, phenomenal, pleasant & pleasurable, prodigious, puzzling, rare, remarkable, rewarding, ripping, satisfying, sensational, single, spectacular, splendid, staggering, sterling, strange, striking, stunning, stupefying, stupendous, super, superb, supereminent, superexcellent, superfine, superior, supernatural, surprising, swell, terrific, tremendous, uncommon, unexampled, unheard-of, unimaginable, unique, unparalleled, unprecedented, unspeakable, wonderful, wondrous
sense of
grace.
It's the receiving and giving and living of ... beauty ...
[n] a disposition to kindness and compassion; benign good will.
[n] the free and unmerited favor or kindness of God; "there but for the grace of God go I."
[n] a sense of propriety and consideration for others.
[n] elegance and beauty of movement or expression...
I was struck by God's way of grace tonight. I could DO all manner of good. But would I be beautiful by my doing?
I am beautiful (of heart, soul, human stuff...) by God's beholding of me... not by my endeavor.
And what does it matter than I respond to that Soul-Gardener with my own sense of favor for who He is ... Giver, that He is?
It matters all, I think.
We could all strangle each other, I guess (nihilistic bomb cults ARE on the rise) ... or we could live in this
marvelous, amazing, astonishing, astounding, awe-inspiring, awesome, beguiling, bewildering, confounding, divine, dreamy, enigmatic, enjoyable, exceptional, exquisite, extraordinary, fabulous, fantastic, fascinating, formidable, glorious, golden, groovy, heavenly, immense, incomprehensible, inconceivable, incredible, indescribable, ineffable, legendary, magnificent, miraculous, mythical, noteworthy, outlandish, outstanding, phenomenal, pleasant & pleasurable, prodigious, puzzling, rare, remarkable, rewarding, ripping, satisfying, sensational, single, spectacular, splendid, staggering, sterling, strange, striking, stunning, stupefying, stupendous, super, superb, supereminent, superexcellent, superfine, superior, supernatural, surprising, swell, terrific, tremendous, uncommon, unexampled, unheard-of, unimaginable, unique, unparalleled, unprecedented, unspeakable, wonderful, wondrous
sense of
grace.
Wednesday, July 7, 2004
100 or BUST!!!
American's Funniest Home Videos just had their 100th show and, amongst other shenanigans and foolery, they featured a 100 year old lady who had this to say when Bob asked her what her secret was -
"Take life as it comes and thank the Lord for His graciousness to you!"
Hm.
Cool.
"Take life as it comes and thank the Lord for His graciousness to you!"
Hm.
Cool.
Tuesday, July 6, 2004
Working From Home
It's a scary thing to do!
The society we live in is SO predisposed for automaton-style "workin for the man"! Everybody's safer that way, right?
But consider the value of succeeding... learn to support yourself, share the wealth more directly (no more middlemen... unless you AGREE to using them!), give the legacy to your children... and, of course, a sense of sovereignty.
But the lobsters won't let ya get outta the pail that easily. Fight for all your worth!
At least that's some of what I've been telling myself, lately.
The society we live in is SO predisposed for automaton-style "workin for the man"! Everybody's safer that way, right?
But consider the value of succeeding... learn to support yourself, share the wealth more directly (no more middlemen... unless you AGREE to using them!), give the legacy to your children... and, of course, a sense of sovereignty.
But the lobsters won't let ya get outta the pail that easily. Fight for all your worth!
At least that's some of what I've been telling myself, lately.
Monday, June 28, 2004
Tend the Fields You've Been Given.
One of the biggest things me and my wife, Michelle, cherish is HAVIN LOTSA BABIES!!!!
Immediately something in your western mind recoils, does it not? I can guarantee that many more minds on this planet do not shirk this thought, but, rather, their hearts leap at the idea of a large happy family!
Why is this?
One word. Abortion.
We have become a society programmed to kill for convenience.
While other societies grow at such a rate (a normal rate, actually) that we fear our western society will be "overrun" by "third world" strange ethnicities.
"Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh My!!!"
I say, let it happen!
This world of people will discover many new things about itself as the "end of times" scenario unfolds. One of those things that will become ubiquitous and commonplace - indigenous wisdom.
And the terms in the Bible, "end of times," "end of the age," (in some translations) "end of the world," etc., are SO misunderstood! A lot of people think "the myth of the Bible" (world's all-time bestseller) paints a picture of irreparable destruction. Not so, however. A - the Bible ain't a myth! B - God loves the earth and has great plans to keep it FOREVER!
And in that keeping, my thought is that God planted nuggets of wisdom in all the different people groups (don't you DARE say "race!") and these seeds of wisdom are growing right on schedule. Through the advent of this age of information-distribution, we are discovering the deep, eternal value of these divinely planted seeds.
I STILL believe the Bible is such miraculously compelete record of God's heart for humanity that there will (ultimately) be no suprises. "There is nothing new underneath the sun" as old King Solomon put it. But it will be the sages of those scriptures, who remain unknown to current media, who will show us just how that tribe in Africa came to understand the value of a certain "seed-bearing herb."
The ONLY one who can sort out all the various streams of information and righteously establish their intrinsic worth is the Messiah from Israel, Yeshua.
That's why we will hang upon every word He utters from "Zion" - Jerusalem, Israel!
And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. - (Micah 4:2)
And all of us will offer various degrees of response to this King. Some will tend one field. Others will tend their own and anothers - with joy.
"With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
"I can change the world
With my own two hands
Make a better place
With my own two hands
Make a kinder place
Oh- with my
Oh- with my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
"I can make peace on earth
With my own two hands
I can clean up the earth
Oh- with my own two hands
I can reach out to you
Oh- with my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
Oh- with my own
Oh- with my own two hands
"I'm gonna make it a brighter place
With my own
I'm gonna make it a safer place
With my own
I'm gonna help the human race
With my own
With my own two hands
"Now I can hold you
With my own two hands
And I can comfort you
With my own two hands
But you got to use
Use your own two hands
Use your own
Use your own two hands"
Immediately something in your western mind recoils, does it not? I can guarantee that many more minds on this planet do not shirk this thought, but, rather, their hearts leap at the idea of a large happy family!
Why is this?
One word. Abortion.
We have become a society programmed to kill for convenience.
While other societies grow at such a rate (a normal rate, actually) that we fear our western society will be "overrun" by "third world" strange ethnicities.
"Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh My!!!"
I say, let it happen!
This world of people will discover many new things about itself as the "end of times" scenario unfolds. One of those things that will become ubiquitous and commonplace - indigenous wisdom.
And the terms in the Bible, "end of times," "end of the age," (in some translations) "end of the world," etc., are SO misunderstood! A lot of people think "the myth of the Bible" (world's all-time bestseller) paints a picture of irreparable destruction. Not so, however. A - the Bible ain't a myth! B - God loves the earth and has great plans to keep it FOREVER!
And in that keeping, my thought is that God planted nuggets of wisdom in all the different people groups (don't you DARE say "race!") and these seeds of wisdom are growing right on schedule. Through the advent of this age of information-distribution, we are discovering the deep, eternal value of these divinely planted seeds.
I STILL believe the Bible is such miraculously compelete record of God's heart for humanity that there will (ultimately) be no suprises. "There is nothing new underneath the sun" as old King Solomon put it. But it will be the sages of those scriptures, who remain unknown to current media, who will show us just how that tribe in Africa came to understand the value of a certain "seed-bearing herb."
The ONLY one who can sort out all the various streams of information and righteously establish their intrinsic worth is the Messiah from Israel, Yeshua.
That's why we will hang upon every word He utters from "Zion" - Jerusalem, Israel!
And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. - (Micah 4:2)
And all of us will offer various degrees of response to this King. Some will tend one field. Others will tend their own and anothers - with joy.
"With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
"I can change the world
With my own two hands
Make a better place
With my own two hands
Make a kinder place
Oh- with my
Oh- with my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
"I can make peace on earth
With my own two hands
I can clean up the earth
Oh- with my own two hands
I can reach out to you
Oh- with my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
Oh- with my own
Oh- with my own two hands
"I'm gonna make it a brighter place
With my own
I'm gonna make it a safer place
With my own
I'm gonna help the human race
With my own
With my own two hands
"Now I can hold you
With my own two hands
And I can comfort you
With my own two hands
But you got to use
Use your own two hands
Use your own
Use your own two hands"
Saturday, June 26, 2004
R E L E V A N C E (earthly good)
Definition: \Rel-e-vance \ Relevancy \ Rel-e-van-cy \ n.
1. The quality or state of being relevant; pertinency; applicability.
"Its answer little meaning, little relevancy bore." - Poe.
2. (Scots Law) Sufficiency to infer the conclusion.
Talking with the wife, my Sunshine, this morning, we confirmed together the reason for our not sending our children to public school and not allowing them to watch popular television (besides Sesame Street and Barney, of course) and our general approach and philosophy for that "set-apartedness."
We've actually decided long ago upon this set approach for raising children in USA-World-7th Millenium (by Jewish Calendar) and our convictions are one of the things that drew us together in the first place. We've been settled on the idea of creating an alternate reality to the current MTV-Drug-Sex-Violence culture, but the wife ran into another Mama of multiple children (we have 4 - she, 7) who said, "You know, I used to be like you... but I've changed my mind. I think it's important to introduce the little ones to the harsh realities of our world as soon as possible... to prepare them." Michelle confidently defended why we do what we do - "We want them to have a firm foundation - perhaps at 10... or 16... or even 19... we will release them into the fray. But, until then, we will communicate our vision... our understanding of life and human value."
It did quiet the Mom. Reminded her of old ideals, I suppose. But programming took over and she argued her new-found liberal approach.
We still believe, though, that it's extremely important to preserve... and to build... - and to preserve some more - something in the children that is vastly different than the world system we see presently around us. A system that is causing societies across the planet - some western ones moreso than some eastern and indigenous ones - to crumble before our very eyes.... just like Rome crumbled in the early centuries of "A.D."
And how does this cause us and our children to be "relevant"?
Consider again: 1. The quality or state of being relevant; pertinency; applicability. "Its answer little meaning, little relevancy bore." - Poe. 2. (Scots Law) Sufficiency to infer the conclusion.
Pertinent and applicable to our surroundings... inferring a "conclusion."
We give VISION where there is NO VISION.
"Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." (Proverbs 29:18)
And this is not just what we give our children - which, we believe, will FAR surpass our wildest perceptions of God's Kingdom on earth! - but we share our own vision (by our giftings and talents) with our own peers (you, for instance!). By the Grace of God (who does all good on the earth), we live what we teach them.
That's pretty darn pertinent stuff! As a matter of fact, I love to say, not "You're so heavenly minded, that you are of no earthly good..." but
"We're so heavenly minded, that we are of ULTIMATE earthly good!"
We don't watch much television anyways. But, when we do, we don't want to learn - during 'network primetime family viewing' - the latest method of perverted sex, or violent crime! (Don't dare leave that 10 year old alone in the house with the remote!!!)
So we're considering getting SkyAngel satelite tv! Check it out!
And cause your family to be of ultimate earthly good!
1. The quality or state of being relevant; pertinency; applicability.
"Its answer little meaning, little relevancy bore." - Poe.
2. (Scots Law) Sufficiency to infer the conclusion.
Talking with the wife, my Sunshine, this morning, we confirmed together the reason for our not sending our children to public school and not allowing them to watch popular television (besides Sesame Street and Barney, of course) and our general approach and philosophy for that "set-apartedness."
We've actually decided long ago upon this set approach for raising children in USA-World-7th Millenium (by Jewish Calendar) and our convictions are one of the things that drew us together in the first place. We've been settled on the idea of creating an alternate reality to the current MTV-Drug-Sex-Violence culture, but the wife ran into another Mama of multiple children (we have 4 - she, 7) who said, "You know, I used to be like you... but I've changed my mind. I think it's important to introduce the little ones to the harsh realities of our world as soon as possible... to prepare them." Michelle confidently defended why we do what we do - "We want them to have a firm foundation - perhaps at 10... or 16... or even 19... we will release them into the fray. But, until then, we will communicate our vision... our understanding of life and human value."
It did quiet the Mom. Reminded her of old ideals, I suppose. But programming took over and she argued her new-found liberal approach.
We still believe, though, that it's extremely important to preserve... and to build... - and to preserve some more - something in the children that is vastly different than the world system we see presently around us. A system that is causing societies across the planet - some western ones moreso than some eastern and indigenous ones - to crumble before our very eyes.... just like Rome crumbled in the early centuries of "A.D."
And how does this cause us and our children to be "relevant"?
Consider again: 1. The quality or state of being relevant; pertinency; applicability. "Its answer little meaning, little relevancy bore." - Poe. 2. (Scots Law) Sufficiency to infer the conclusion.
Pertinent and applicable to our surroundings... inferring a "conclusion."
We give VISION where there is NO VISION.
"Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." (Proverbs 29:18)
And this is not just what we give our children - which, we believe, will FAR surpass our wildest perceptions of God's Kingdom on earth! - but we share our own vision (by our giftings and talents) with our own peers (you, for instance!). By the Grace of God (who does all good on the earth), we live what we teach them.
That's pretty darn pertinent stuff! As a matter of fact, I love to say, not "You're so heavenly minded, that you are of no earthly good..." but
"We're so heavenly minded, that we are of ULTIMATE earthly good!"
We don't watch much television anyways. But, when we do, we don't want to learn - during 'network primetime family viewing' - the latest method of perverted sex, or violent crime! (Don't dare leave that 10 year old alone in the house with the remote!!!)
So we're considering getting SkyAngel satelite tv! Check it out!
And cause your family to be of ultimate earthly good!
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Jeremiah 31 - To The Rescue!
Jeremiah 31
There is a time for victory in our lives. God will do it. Not the arm of the flesh or the will of man... not by might nor by power, says the Lord, "But by My Spirit!" We must depend on Him alone and not ourselves or others. And He is a God of FAMILIES! He has a vision for our family! He is the one who establishes our family NAME! Will we be His?
1 "At that time," declares the LORD, "I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they will be my people."
It is always in the desert of our soul... in the places of temptation in the wilderness... where we must learn to lean on Him.
2 This is what the LORD says: The people who survived the wars have found favor in the desert. Israel went to find its rest.
3 The LORD appeared to me in a faraway place and said, "I love you with an everlasting love. So I will continue to show you my kindness.
This is a vision of family in wholeness. This is a vision of Fathers, Mothers, Sons and Daughters REJOICING IN GOD!!! "Without a vision - people perish." Hold fast to your visions of wholeness. Don't give ear to the bitterness and shame. Have ears to hear the gracious, loving Savior.
4 Once again I will build you up, and you will be rebuilt, my dear people Israel. Once again you will take your tambourines, and you will go dancing with happy people.
5 Once again you will plant vineyards on the mountains of Samaria. Those who plant them will enjoy the fruit.
6 There will be a day when watchmen on the mountains of Ephraim will call out this message: 'Arise! Let's go to Zion, to the LORD our God.'"
Sing! No, I mean ACTUALLY SING! Sing to God about your victories, yes, of course. But also sing with intercession for those who need freedom from their habitual sins... because it is the LORD who does all. How awesome it is when souls return to the Living God of Israel in the Messiah Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus), Savior of the World.
7 This is what the LORD says: Sing a happy song about Jacob. Sing joyfully for the leader of the nations. Shout, sing praise, and say, "O LORD, rescue your people, the remaining few from Israel."
8 "I will bring them from the land of the north. I will gather them from the farthest parts of the earth. Blind people and lame people will return together with pregnant women and those in labor. A large crowd will return here.
9 They will cry as they return. They will pray as I bring them back. I will lead them beside streams on a level path where they will not stumble. I will be a Father to Israel, and Ephraim will be my firstborn.
"I will be a Father to Israel... and Ephraim will be my firstborn." The Father heals all. He lifts the weary and fills them with purpose.
He will gather us out of our desert areas.
10 "You nations, listen to the word of the LORD. Tell it to the distant islands. Say, 'The one who scattered the people of Israel will gather them and watch over them as a shepherd watches over his flock.'
11 The LORD will free the descendants of Jacob and reclaim them from those who are stronger than they are.
And the joy of our salvation will return. This extends into the depths of our family... and into the depths of our mission in life (priesthood).
12 They will come and shout for joy on top of Mount Zion. They will stream to it to enjoy the LORD's blessings: fresh grain, new wine, and olive oil, lambs and calves. Their lives will be like well-watered gardens, and they will never suffer again.
13 Then young women will rejoice and dance along with young men and old men. I will turn their mourning into joy. I will comfort them. I will give them joy in place of their sorrow.
14 I will satisfy the priests with rich food. My people will be filled with my blessings," declares the LORD.
The weeping women will be fulfilled. This is, perhaps, the deepest agony... that of a mother having lost her children... and GOD can help and heal even THAT!
15 This is what the LORD says: A sound is heard in Ramah, the sound of crying in bitter grief. Rachel is crying for her children. She refuses to be comforted, because they are dead.
16 This is what the LORD says: Stop your crying, and wipe away your tears. You will be rewarded for your work, declares the LORD. You will return from the land of the enemy.
And, as men, we can see Rachel as the spirit within us who has yearned for recovery from our own sinfulness! The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak... and the Holy Spirit can join with our spirits and make us CONQUERORS! Our vision-children CAN return!
17 Your future is filled with hope, declares the LORD. Your children will return to their own territory.
Ephraim is the picture of the youthful lusts. We must "grow up - become a man - put away childish things!" The lust was trained into us as youths - it does NOT belong to us!!!
18 "I have certainly heard Ephraim mourn and say, 'You disciplined me, and I was disciplined. I was like a young, untrained calf. Turn me, and I will be turned, because you are the LORD my God.
19 After I was turned around, I changed the way I thought and acted. After I was taught a lesson, I hung my head in shame. I was so ashamed and humiliated, because of all the stupid things I have done ever since I was young.'
God turns on a DIME when we (truly, humbly) turn from our habits and cry out for TOTAL VICTORY!
20 Is Ephraim my dear son? Is he a pleasant child? Even though I have often spoken against him, I still think fondly of him. That is why my heart longs for him, and I will certainly have compassion on him," declares the LORD.
And the Father is wise. He encourages us to remember the vision of Wisdom (Proverbs 9) that called us away from the Harlot. And to set up signs for ourselves that remind us of our giftings and callings in Jesus!
21 Set up landmarks! Put up road signs! Remember the highway, the road on which you traveled. Come back, my dear people Israel, come back to your cities.
22 How long will you wander around, you unfaithful people? The LORD will create something new on earth: A woman will protect a man.
(King James - "A woman shall encompass a man")
Will YOU fulfill GOD's desires for companionship? This is, indeed, the PURPOSE of the Bible to mankind. To tell the story of the BrideGroom God, Jesus, and share with us His vision for a spotless Bride who has made herself ready to REIGN with Him in His Kingdom!
Consider here, the premise of Ephesians 5:
25 Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it. 26 He did this to make the church holy by cleansing it, washing it using water along with spoken words. 27 Then he could present it to himself as a glorious church, without any kind of stain or wrinkle--holy and without faults. 28 So husbands must love their wives as they love their own bodies. A man who loves his wife loves himself. 29 No one ever hated his own body. Instead, he feeds and takes care of it, as Christ takes care of the church. 30 We are parts of his body. 31 That's why a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, and the two will be one. 32 This is a great mystery. (I'm talking about Christ's relationship to the church.) 33 But every husband must love his wife as he loves himself, and wives should respect their husbands.
We START by loving our wives with unconditional love. They finish by respecting our vision for the Kingdom of God on earth. But we must start it... as God did. Likewise... we must live in obedience to God who is Love (agape)! If we give them their knight in shining armor (by the grace and power of the Holy Spirit - NOT by our own strength!), then they will give us a mighty respect that will make us feel that we can do ANYTHING! This is the mystery, the "something new on the earth" of a woman encompassing a man... and GOD WILL DO IT! (Lest we should boast!)
Jeremiah 31 again...
23 This is what the LORD of Armies, the God of Israel, says: When I have brought them back from captivity, they will once again use this saying in Judah and in its cities: "The LORD will bless you, home of righteousness, holy mountain."
24 Judah and all its cities will live there together. Farmers and shepherds will also live there.
25 I will give those who are weary all they need. I will refresh everyone who is filled with sorrow.
This can bring that divine satisfaction - a good night sleep! It doesn't need to be a rare thing anymore!
Turn! Set up signs and OVERCOME BY YESHUA'S AUTHORITY!
26 At this, I woke up and looked around. My sleep had been pleasant.
As if it were a dream... and yet this isn't a dream. Jeremiah's sleep was pleasant because of the Redemption of God made clear in his vision.
This is the way we overcome a sick world-system, the carnal nature we seek to tame and the devils that would have us fail! ... that is if you believe any of that stuff is a threat! (I do.)
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Lonliness and the Myth
Lonliness... reminds me of a Simon & Garfunkel song - "Hello, darkness, my old friend..." Lonliness can be SUCH a freakin' BEAR!
Lonliness only taps at my door now... but it used to kick it down without compunction and ravage my home at will! I remember it all too well.
And I feel compelled to remember. When I see a brother or sister with that far away look in their eyes... my soul resonates and I pray, "Oh God! Deliver them from the LONLINESS!"
With that prayer, on one hand, I would counsel, in agreement with Elisabeth Elliot (from "Passion and Purity") -
"Accept your loneliness. It is one stage, and only one stage, on a journey that brings you to God. It will not always last. Offer up your loneliness to God, as the little boy offered to Jesus his five loaves and two fishes. God can transform it for the good of others. Above all, do something for somebody else! Singleness can be accepted as a burden, or as a higher calling."
But, on the other hand, I think it must also be said that there is a dark combining of twisted notions in today's youth. Young people today have an unreal aversion to marriage... and/or to wanting children! They are raised by the public school (what a truly scary thought) and taught (according to NEA perversions) that marriage and childbirth are anathema... and "alternative lifestyles" to be tested... even preferred! They are told that the world is exploding in over-population (a lie, incidentally) and discouraged from living without chemical abortion (aka "the pill) or other forms of "contraceptive!"
And guess what that does to the lonliness factor? "My old friend" grows by leaps and bounds thanks to your educators!
Change that Myth in your minds.
Love life.
Love children.
Want children.
You'll be a GREAT parent of a large family!
It's an amazingly GOOD thing to be married and have lots of children with your wife!
Try it, you'll like!
And lonliness - that phase of honing, preparation and purification in your life - will be banished far from you forever!
Lonliness only taps at my door now... but it used to kick it down without compunction and ravage my home at will! I remember it all too well.
And I feel compelled to remember. When I see a brother or sister with that far away look in their eyes... my soul resonates and I pray, "Oh God! Deliver them from the LONLINESS!"
With that prayer, on one hand, I would counsel, in agreement with Elisabeth Elliot (from "Passion and Purity") -
"Accept your loneliness. It is one stage, and only one stage, on a journey that brings you to God. It will not always last. Offer up your loneliness to God, as the little boy offered to Jesus his five loaves and two fishes. God can transform it for the good of others. Above all, do something for somebody else! Singleness can be accepted as a burden, or as a higher calling."
But, on the other hand, I think it must also be said that there is a dark combining of twisted notions in today's youth. Young people today have an unreal aversion to marriage... and/or to wanting children! They are raised by the public school (what a truly scary thought) and taught (according to NEA perversions) that marriage and childbirth are anathema... and "alternative lifestyles" to be tested... even preferred! They are told that the world is exploding in over-population (a lie, incidentally) and discouraged from living without chemical abortion (aka "the pill) or other forms of "contraceptive!"
And guess what that does to the lonliness factor? "My old friend" grows by leaps and bounds thanks to your educators!
Change that Myth in your minds.
Love life.
Love children.
Want children.
You'll be a GREAT parent of a large family!
It's an amazingly GOOD thing to be married and have lots of children with your wife!
Try it, you'll like!
And lonliness - that phase of honing, preparation and purification in your life - will be banished far from you forever!
Saturday, May 22, 2004
Swimteam and Autism!
Just updated my info on my bro Don's website, "Swimteam." Checkitout!
I highly identify with Autism. (seriously) I don't see it as a weakness... but a strength. Those people refuse to conform. Although there is a warranted connection with vaccinations, i see them as highly sensitive individuals who fight to preserve their sense of self - of place. I believe God especially helps them to preserve that unique self. That being said, it is a most beautiful thing when someone of equal strength barges in to befriend them in that place. God preserves everyones unique self... but will they stand before Him by the infinite virtue of His Lamb's cleansing blood? Or by the strength of their own definition? I pray I am found in Him. Serving Him by His virtue.
I highly identify with Autism. (seriously) I don't see it as a weakness... but a strength. Those people refuse to conform. Although there is a warranted connection with vaccinations, i see them as highly sensitive individuals who fight to preserve their sense of self - of place. I believe God especially helps them to preserve that unique self. That being said, it is a most beautiful thing when someone of equal strength barges in to befriend them in that place. God preserves everyones unique self... but will they stand before Him by the infinite virtue of His Lamb's cleansing blood? Or by the strength of their own definition? I pray I am found in Him. Serving Him by His virtue.
Monday, May 17, 2004
Burning Truth
"Truth: That which is real; that which exists, good or bad. Truth is absolute, the same for everyone, never relative. The same holds true for all untruth, falsehood, lying. For example, spoiled food is not good for anyone; aggression hurts everyone; tyranny is not beneficial for anyone; love is good for everyone; oxygen is good and necessary for everyone."
We're dealing with the fallout of a drug-dealing, drug-abusing friend of ours as his chemically-induced insanity touches our lives - it's sometimes like an emotional sledge hammer!
The kind of drug-craziness we're talking about is the kind that removes the HUMAN element and introduces the BEAST! It makes people think like caged-animals. He is expeiencing the ugly side of the drug-abusers underworld... the paranoia, the fear, the mistrust, and the RELENTLESS LIES and cold-hearted lifestyle of deception!
From my own limited but comprehensive experience with drug abuse, I must say - the DEALER is the WORST! The DEALER is the kind of person who justifies what they do "by any means necessary"! They will lie upon the lies in order to defend their precious stash of marijuana... crystal meth... or whatever substance is "moving."
Following the crowd, I tried drugs for a season in my life. Experimented with marijuanna, LSD, halucinogenic mushrooms, and even "crystal" methamphetamines. This period lasted 3 years.
It was preceded by a year and a half of tears... crying from sunup to sundown over the loss of a loved one. The thought of "escaping" with state-altering substances was fascinating to me... so I dove into the fray.
People these days like to say, "I'm not ashamed of ANYTHING I've done!" They say it's a sign of self-realization and affirmation. They say it's unhealthy to label any activity or experience as "wrong" or "hurtful."
I gotta say, though... I sure wish I would have said, "No, thanks" to the drugs! The PAIN and DISARRAY that affected my life and the lives of those around me is NOT WORTH THE MOMENTS of "escape" abusing those chemicals (natural or contrived) afforded me.
Mind-altering Drugs = Confusion and Pain...
That's truth, baby.
And the flipside of that underworld is a fascinating offer: Life lived with sobriety and confidence is FILLED with euphoria and the deepest peace and the wildest excitement and most awe-inspiring wonder and even (in the broad, inifinite context of marriage and the marriage bed) sensuous ecstasy.
We are designed for super-abundant life!
Observe the children! Their innocence and wonder is EVERYWHERE! Children all over the world exhibit for us adults the standard of excellent life that remains to be achieved in our adulthood.
That's truth, too.... baby.
See? "Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" (Matthew 18:2-4 - New King James Version)
But the DRUG WORLD twists our True world (of humanity and the rest of creation) and presents a distorted FALSE image of the real.
And that's why I think the following ancient passage of scripture is such an appropriate commentary on today's drug culture:
Romans 1:18 - "These people hold back God's truth by the wrong things they do."
(Worldwide English Version)
See how many aspects of drug abuse, drug dealers you can see in this extended context of the passage -
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality,[3] wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving,[4] unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
(New King James Version: Romans 1:18-32)
God help us all. It is this drug-dependency that makes our present world appear so distorted.
And the ancient prophecy in the book of Revelations warns us that people will CLING to this "pharmakeia" untill the bitter end. Note that "pharmacy" is translated as "sorecery" or "witchcraft" and it will be an intricate part of the "merchants" or commerce of the age.
Revelation 9:21 and 18:23
So what can be done to avoid this sorcery and controlling manipulation aided by drugs?
Enter Truth.
We're dealing with the fallout of a drug-dealing, drug-abusing friend of ours as his chemically-induced insanity touches our lives - it's sometimes like an emotional sledge hammer!
The kind of drug-craziness we're talking about is the kind that removes the HUMAN element and introduces the BEAST! It makes people think like caged-animals. He is expeiencing the ugly side of the drug-abusers underworld... the paranoia, the fear, the mistrust, and the RELENTLESS LIES and cold-hearted lifestyle of deception!
From my own limited but comprehensive experience with drug abuse, I must say - the DEALER is the WORST! The DEALER is the kind of person who justifies what they do "by any means necessary"! They will lie upon the lies in order to defend their precious stash of marijuana... crystal meth... or whatever substance is "moving."
Following the crowd, I tried drugs for a season in my life. Experimented with marijuanna, LSD, halucinogenic mushrooms, and even "crystal" methamphetamines. This period lasted 3 years.
It was preceded by a year and a half of tears... crying from sunup to sundown over the loss of a loved one. The thought of "escaping" with state-altering substances was fascinating to me... so I dove into the fray.
People these days like to say, "I'm not ashamed of ANYTHING I've done!" They say it's a sign of self-realization and affirmation. They say it's unhealthy to label any activity or experience as "wrong" or "hurtful."
I gotta say, though... I sure wish I would have said, "No, thanks" to the drugs! The PAIN and DISARRAY that affected my life and the lives of those around me is NOT WORTH THE MOMENTS of "escape" abusing those chemicals (natural or contrived) afforded me.
Mind-altering Drugs = Confusion and Pain...
That's truth, baby.
And the flipside of that underworld is a fascinating offer: Life lived with sobriety and confidence is FILLED with euphoria and the deepest peace and the wildest excitement and most awe-inspiring wonder and even (in the broad, inifinite context of marriage and the marriage bed) sensuous ecstasy.
We are designed for super-abundant life!
Observe the children! Their innocence and wonder is EVERYWHERE! Children all over the world exhibit for us adults the standard of excellent life that remains to be achieved in our adulthood.
That's truth, too.... baby.
See? "Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'" (Matthew 18:2-4 - New King James Version)
But the DRUG WORLD twists our True world (of humanity and the rest of creation) and presents a distorted FALSE image of the real.
And that's why I think the following ancient passage of scripture is such an appropriate commentary on today's drug culture:
Romans 1:18 - "These people hold back God's truth by the wrong things they do."
(Worldwide English Version)
See how many aspects of drug abuse, drug dealers you can see in this extended context of the passage -
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality,[3] wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving,[4] unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
(New King James Version: Romans 1:18-32)
God help us all. It is this drug-dependency that makes our present world appear so distorted.
And the ancient prophecy in the book of Revelations warns us that people will CLING to this "pharmakeia" untill the bitter end. Note that "pharmacy" is translated as "sorecery" or "witchcraft" and it will be an intricate part of the "merchants" or commerce of the age.
Revelation 9:21 and 18:23
So what can be done to avoid this sorcery and controlling manipulation aided by drugs?
Enter Truth.
Sunday, May 9, 2004
AtomSound Logo
Just MASSIVELY changed our homesite (see sidebar or link following) and added this to one of the hidden links...
:::The Story of our Logo::::
AtomSoundMedia wants to please God!
Which God? The God who holds your atoms together, of course! The only God who is! The One who watches over tiny Israel and who sustains everything seen and unseen by the power of His Word! The Being of Love who existed before time (as we know it)... The Father who loved His Son in the Spirit... and who longed more profoundly than the depths of space to share that love with His creation... especially with HUMANITY.
And we know that within that pleasing... there is an INFINITE ARRAY of pleasant things. For to TRULY please the One who makes all things good and beautiful... is to, in turn, live goodness and beauty before everyone and everything made by that One.
The phrase "AtomSound" represents what physicists call "Strong Nuclear Force." It holds matter in place... it was spoken into existance long, long ago... a reverberation that is unique and never ceases as long as the One who spoke does not withdraw His creative Word.
And, rest assured, God places His ultimate authority on the integrity of that Word!
The AtomSoundMedia logo is built around a slightly enhanced image that was captured by the famed Hubbel Space Telescope. It had pointed it's mirrored lense far into the black of night and captured a helix nebula known only as "NGC 7293!" We at AtomSound lovingly refer to it as the 'eye of God'!
It is a visual reminder to us of how HUGE the scope and reach of our Creator is! He fashioned the outer reaches of space with infinite artistry and design... and He sustains the most infinitesimal quark or gluon in splendid array. You want proof? Check the logo!
And it also reminds us that He watches us. Imagine there is a heaven... and that there is a God who watches everything we do... He watches and MOVES in perfect, patient love so that He may fully bring that heaven down to earth!
In fact, in the Bible says...
Psalm 121 - A song of ascents.
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD watches over you- the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm- he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalm 146:9 - The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
Wow... Great song by the ol' shepherd-boy, David, huh?!
And then there's this little tidbit, too, God, the Watcher, identified as the Son!
1 John 5:18 - We know that no child of God keeps on sinning. The Son of God watches over him and the devil cannot get near him.
Isaiah 9:6 - For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. 8 The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel. 9 And all the people shall know...
If you haven't met God. Call out to Him for an introduction! Converse with the Most High who holds your atoms in balance!
Following is an example based on Jesus' special prayer model for His followers (Matthew 6:9-15 & Luke 11:1-13) -
"My Father in heaven. You are completely transcendent and magnificent... and yet You delight to dwell with the humble-hearted.
"I need Your Kingdom reign in my life. Fill me with understanding of the way You are doing things and so I can join the people who walk in maturity throughout the various world systems in the future. Use me for that higher love in a unique way.
"Give me and my loved ones the sustenance and shelter we need to accomplish these things. The birds don't worry about Your provision... help me not to worry either. You are a good Father to all who rely on You. I want to be in that crowd of peaceful lovers of God and life.
"Jesus, You lived the perfect life in perfect love and yet cruel men set You up and tortured You to a gruesome death... and it was Your goal to proclaim - and You did - "Father, forgive them... they don't know what they're doing!" Help me to have a heart of forgiveness and grace like Yours. I want to think like You.... but I also want to feel the way You feel about people... about this planet.
"Yeshua (Jesus), because You got up from physical death - Your vessel of operation, Your body, intact and touchable - You have promised there is also Resurrection power to live this life available to me! And I want it! I need it! Let this be only a beginning of a new, radical life that's filled with Your Spirit making life happen in me. I don't want to live like an average person. I want to be filled with Your extraordinary Life!
"For Yours is the Only Kingdom that works and brings beauty to planet earth... may Your Kingdom be fully established - And Jesus, You are the passionate BrideGroom whispering the directions to Your Bride... I'm listening!"
All of the last book of the Bible, Revelation, chapter 22, sums up the goal of ... but especially verses 16 & 17 -
"I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give this testimony to you for the churches. I am the root and descendant of David. I am the bright morning star.
And the Spirit and the Bride say, 'Come!'.
And let those who hear this say, 'Come!.'
And let those who want the water of life take it as a gift!"
:::The Story of our Logo::::
AtomSoundMedia wants to please God!
Which God? The God who holds your atoms together, of course! The only God who is! The One who watches over tiny Israel and who sustains everything seen and unseen by the power of His Word! The Being of Love who existed before time (as we know it)... The Father who loved His Son in the Spirit... and who longed more profoundly than the depths of space to share that love with His creation... especially with HUMANITY.
And we know that within that pleasing... there is an INFINITE ARRAY of pleasant things. For to TRULY please the One who makes all things good and beautiful... is to, in turn, live goodness and beauty before everyone and everything made by that One.
The phrase "AtomSound" represents what physicists call "Strong Nuclear Force." It holds matter in place... it was spoken into existance long, long ago... a reverberation that is unique and never ceases as long as the One who spoke does not withdraw His creative Word.
And, rest assured, God places His ultimate authority on the integrity of that Word!
The AtomSoundMedia logo is built around a slightly enhanced image that was captured by the famed Hubbel Space Telescope. It had pointed it's mirrored lense far into the black of night and captured a helix nebula known only as "NGC 7293!" We at AtomSound lovingly refer to it as the 'eye of God'!
It is a visual reminder to us of how HUGE the scope and reach of our Creator is! He fashioned the outer reaches of space with infinite artistry and design... and He sustains the most infinitesimal quark or gluon in splendid array. You want proof? Check the logo!
And it also reminds us that He watches us. Imagine there is a heaven... and that there is a God who watches everything we do... He watches and MOVES in perfect, patient love so that He may fully bring that heaven down to earth!
In fact, in the Bible says...
Psalm 121 - A song of ascents.
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD watches over you- the LORD is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all harm- he will watch over your life; 8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalm 146:9 - The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
Wow... Great song by the ol' shepherd-boy, David, huh?!
And then there's this little tidbit, too, God, the Watcher, identified as the Son!
1 John 5:18 - We know that no child of God keeps on sinning. The Son of God watches over him and the devil cannot get near him.
Isaiah 9:6 - For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. 8 The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel. 9 And all the people shall know...
If you haven't met God. Call out to Him for an introduction! Converse with the Most High who holds your atoms in balance!
Following is an example based on Jesus' special prayer model for His followers (Matthew 6:9-15 & Luke 11:1-13) -
"My Father in heaven. You are completely transcendent and magnificent... and yet You delight to dwell with the humble-hearted.
"I need Your Kingdom reign in my life. Fill me with understanding of the way You are doing things and so I can join the people who walk in maturity throughout the various world systems in the future. Use me for that higher love in a unique way.
"Give me and my loved ones the sustenance and shelter we need to accomplish these things. The birds don't worry about Your provision... help me not to worry either. You are a good Father to all who rely on You. I want to be in that crowd of peaceful lovers of God and life.
"Jesus, You lived the perfect life in perfect love and yet cruel men set You up and tortured You to a gruesome death... and it was Your goal to proclaim - and You did - "Father, forgive them... they don't know what they're doing!" Help me to have a heart of forgiveness and grace like Yours. I want to think like You.... but I also want to feel the way You feel about people... about this planet.
"Yeshua (Jesus), because You got up from physical death - Your vessel of operation, Your body, intact and touchable - You have promised there is also Resurrection power to live this life available to me! And I want it! I need it! Let this be only a beginning of a new, radical life that's filled with Your Spirit making life happen in me. I don't want to live like an average person. I want to be filled with Your extraordinary Life!
"For Yours is the Only Kingdom that works and brings beauty to planet earth... may Your Kingdom be fully established - And Jesus, You are the passionate BrideGroom whispering the directions to Your Bride... I'm listening!"
All of the last book of the Bible, Revelation, chapter 22, sums up the goal of ... but especially verses 16 & 17 -
"I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give this testimony to you for the churches. I am the root and descendant of David. I am the bright morning star.
And the Spirit and the Bride say, 'Come!'.
And let those who hear this say, 'Come!.'
And let those who want the water of life take it as a gift!"
Sunday, May 2, 2004
Waterdeep
Waterdeep put on a "really big shoe" at the New Earth Coffeehouse this weekend (Friday and Saturday nights, April 30th and May 1st). The young man who put the band together and married the lead female singer, Lori Coscia, is none other than my "little" brother, Donald. Really not little at all, of course - he's a big guy (bigger than me?) - he's a papa! - he's a famous rockstar... but a little younger, perhaps.
Since I don't get to talk to him much and since the thing that I'm most wanting to talk about is a general topic everyone who is remotely interested in the Man/God of the Universe, Yeshua/Jesus, might want to consider and / or debate (in a friendly way)... I'm just gonna bust out right now tonight - at 4 am after a REALLY long night of rockin the New Earth house down!
The topic is this - What Does a "Christian Songwriter" Sing About?
Hmm.... well, allow me to suggest that before you commence the pondering of the answer, check out the soundtrack I'm listening to - a friend of Waterdeep's...
The formal answer (for, well, a really long time - not that that implies positively, for sure, the RIGHTNESS of such practice - of COURSE!) has been, well, since he or she is a "songwriter" NOT sans the "Christian" part, about God! A Christian Songwriter - one who is identified with Christ and is a songwriter... mmm... sings about Christ?
That's what I would think.
But Donald makes the argument (quite poignantly, I might add) that a Christian is FREE. And, therefore, Christian songwriters should spread that freedom into their songwriting and just write about whatever artsy thing suits their fancy... and don't worry about it!
I'm worrying though. (In a patently post "post-modern" way)
We live in a world that is not as content as we are.
If some of you who read this don't know the eternal God who comforts the inner being and answers all the burning questions with molten wisdom that burns, fills and settles your soul to the core, we who know Yeshua should be like wild horses in our concern over that disparity and do whatever we can to share that wholeness with you in ALL our endeavors!
Whether we're "Christian songwriters, plumbers, traffic cops, sign-makers, politicians, breadmakers, homemakers" all are clearly called to live devoted to the God who yearns to be known by ALL.
He yearns deeply for ALL people to know His "wholesomeness" - and our devotion urges us to share that well-being in every way possible - songwriting notwithstanding.
[Note from 080805! Something important here in 1st Peter 2:9! Our "telling" is us actually PRAISING God IN our SOCIETY!!!
We don't just say, "Hey, I wanna tell you something really cool...."
We ACTUALLY DANCE AND SING AND DO ART AND ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN AND ACTS OF SOCIAL JUSTICE IN PUBLIC!!!! We "show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of (our) darkness... (societal) darkness... (mysterious and vast spiritual) darkness and into His MARVELOUS LIGHT" - the LIGHT of His GLORIOUS KINGDOM WISDOM AND ETERNAL REIGN AS IT IS BECOMING CLEAR TO US! HOW GENIUS! HOW ALL-ENCOMPASSING IT IS!! BOTH NOW AND FOREVERMORE!!! We 'live out loud' by speaking as well as acting out our faith. Faith without works is dead, yes, but faith with mouths of joy and compassion and grief and anger TAPED SHUT is, at least, limited.]
Since I don't get to talk to him much and since the thing that I'm most wanting to talk about is a general topic everyone who is remotely interested in the Man/God of the Universe, Yeshua/Jesus, might want to consider and / or debate (in a friendly way)... I'm just gonna bust out right now tonight - at 4 am after a REALLY long night of rockin the New Earth house down!
The topic is this - What Does a "Christian Songwriter" Sing About?
Hmm.... well, allow me to suggest that before you commence the pondering of the answer, check out the soundtrack I'm listening to - a friend of Waterdeep's...
The formal answer (for, well, a really long time - not that that implies positively, for sure, the RIGHTNESS of such practice - of COURSE!) has been, well, since he or she is a "songwriter" NOT sans the "Christian" part, about God! A Christian Songwriter - one who is identified with Christ and is a songwriter... mmm... sings about Christ?
That's what I would think.
But Donald makes the argument (quite poignantly, I might add) that a Christian is FREE. And, therefore, Christian songwriters should spread that freedom into their songwriting and just write about whatever artsy thing suits their fancy... and don't worry about it!
I'm worrying though. (In a patently post "post-modern" way)
We live in a world that is not as content as we are.
If some of you who read this don't know the eternal God who comforts the inner being and answers all the burning questions with molten wisdom that burns, fills and settles your soul to the core, we who know Yeshua should be like wild horses in our concern over that disparity and do whatever we can to share that wholeness with you in ALL our endeavors!
Whether we're "Christian songwriters, plumbers, traffic cops, sign-makers, politicians, breadmakers, homemakers" all are clearly called to live devoted to the God who yearns to be known by ALL.
He yearns deeply for ALL people to know His "wholesomeness" - and our devotion urges us to share that well-being in every way possible - songwriting notwithstanding.
[Note from 080805! Something important here in 1st Peter 2:9! Our "telling" is us actually PRAISING God IN our SOCIETY!!!
We don't just say, "Hey, I wanna tell you something really cool...."
We ACTUALLY DANCE AND SING AND DO ART AND ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN AND ACTS OF SOCIAL JUSTICE IN PUBLIC!!!! We "show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of (our) darkness... (societal) darkness... (mysterious and vast spiritual) darkness and into His MARVELOUS LIGHT" - the LIGHT of His GLORIOUS KINGDOM WISDOM AND ETERNAL REIGN AS IT IS BECOMING CLEAR TO US! HOW GENIUS! HOW ALL-ENCOMPASSING IT IS!! BOTH NOW AND FOREVERMORE!!! We 'live out loud' by speaking as well as acting out our faith. Faith without works is dead, yes, but faith with mouths of joy and compassion and grief and anger TAPED SHUT is, at least, limited.]
Tuesday, April 20, 2004
Chilluns
This morning I was talking to my wife (who happens to be the famed "5th Element" spoken of in Hollywood lore) about the profound aspect of how our children are such amazing human beings. And, at the very worst, they are the strongest motivation to prosper!
Because the very worst case scenario - blinding poverty (one that modern society has turned into a religious reason NOT to have children - or at least not to have many children) - leaves her and I with the grandest inspiration and challenge to provide materially for their needs with our whole soul and strength!
And that's from the perspective of an atheist!!! The God of the Bible actually gives specific challenges and blessings for the "fruitful of womb!"
This society is so sick that we generally don't bat an eye over the 80+ MILLION children that are sacrificed to economic and social convenience.
And yet, children are SUCH AMAZING LITTLE PEOPLE!!! We can fill them with our dreams and visions... and then watch them grow those seeds into something completely unique, but somehow, myseriously, a hybrid of our own ideals and desires for a better world.
Because the very worst case scenario - blinding poverty (one that modern society has turned into a religious reason NOT to have children - or at least not to have many children) - leaves her and I with the grandest inspiration and challenge to provide materially for their needs with our whole soul and strength!
And that's from the perspective of an atheist!!! The God of the Bible actually gives specific challenges and blessings for the "fruitful of womb!"
This society is so sick that we generally don't bat an eye over the 80+ MILLION children that are sacrificed to economic and social convenience.
And yet, children are SUCH AMAZING LITTLE PEOPLE!!! We can fill them with our dreams and visions... and then watch them grow those seeds into something completely unique, but somehow, myseriously, a hybrid of our own ideals and desires for a better world.
Sunday, April 18, 2004
Praise
Praise the God of all creativity.. the Breather... the Giver of all good and perfect gifts... the Lamb who looks as if He had been slaughtered (Rev. 5:6)... the image of the invisible God, the Firstborn of all creation - He created all things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. Whether they are kings... everthing has been created through Him and for Him. (Halelujah!) He existed before everything and holds everything together! (Col. 1:15-17)
And He wants to use me to move mountains!
"For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you'. Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel; I will help you," declares the Lord, "and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. Behold I have made you a new, sharp threshing sledge with double edges; you will thresh the mountains and pulverize them, and will make the hills like chaff. You will winnow them, and the wind will carry them away, and the storm will scatter them; but you will rejoice in the Lord, you will glory in the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:13-16
And He wants to use me to move mountains!
"For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you'. Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel; I will help you," declares the Lord, "and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. Behold I have made you a new, sharp threshing sledge with double edges; you will thresh the mountains and pulverize them, and will make the hills like chaff. You will winnow them, and the wind will carry them away, and the storm will scatter them; but you will rejoice in the Lord, you will glory in the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:13-16
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
A Man Under Authority
City of David... the future seat of the Lamb who was slain from the foundations of the earth... The Teacher who shall reign in Zion... Yeshua, the ServantKing!
I, too, and a man under authority...
We, the Church of Yeshua, our Messiah, are in a critical time of transition. We are facing the One with whom we have to do and He is calling us upward and inward to His secret desires - secrets being revealed even now to His loved ones.... to His precious children.
I humbly submit the following verse plainly contains one of those secrets:
Matthew 8:5-13 -
5 - Now when Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, 6 saying, "Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented."
7- And Jesus said to him, "I will come and heal him."
8 - The centurion answered and said, "Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. 9 - For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, "Go,' and he goes; and to another, "Come,' and he comes; and to my servant, "Do this,' and he does it."
10 - When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! 11 - And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12 - But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." 13 - Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." And his servant was healed that same hour.
It strikes me (powerfully) that this centurion was singled out as the man with the greatest faith He had ever seen! Wow! That Yeshua would say that of anyone... but a gentile??? And what was the one bit of information that flowed out of that life of faith?
"Just say the word, Master. I too am under authority. It will be done as You say."
And so I pray, may our lives speak and believe like his. "Just say the word, Lord. It will be done."
The lives of our loved ones will be transformed.
Jerusalem will be saved from her enemies within and without.
Our acquaintances will be revealed the glory of Him who suffered for their affections.
Following are some more thoughts from the word about authority. Soak it up. Be transformed.
Mark 2:10-12 Jesus said, "I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins." Then He said to the paralyzed man, "I'm telling you to get up, pick up your cot, and go home!" The man got up, immediately picked up his cot, and walked away while everyone watched. Everyone was amazed and praised God, saying "We have never seen anything like this!"
Mark 3:14-15 He appointed twelve whom He called apostles. They were to accompany Him and to be sent out by Him to spread the Good News. They also had the authority to force demons out of people.
Mark 7:9 & 13 (To so-called Teachers of the Law) He added, "You have no trouble rejecting the commandments of God in order to keep your own traditions!... Because of your traditions you have destroyed the authority of God's word."
Mark 10:35-45 (SACRIFICE = AUTHORITY IN HEAVEN!) 35 And there come near to him James and John, the sons of Zebedee, saying, ‘Teacher, we wish that whatever we may ask for ourselves, thou mayest do for us;’ 36 and he said to them, ‘What do ye wish me to do for you?’ 37 and they said to him, ‘Grant to us that, one on thy right hand and one on thy left, we may sit in thy glory;’ 38 and Jesus said to them, ‘Ye have not known what ye ask; are ye able to drink of the cup that I drink of, and with the baptism that I am baptized with — to be baptized?’ 39 And they said to him, ‘We are able;’ and Jesus said to them, ‘Of the cup indeed that I drink of, ye shall drink, and with the baptism that I am baptized with, ye shall be baptized; 40 but to sit on my right and on my left, is not mine to give, but — to those for whom it hath been prepared.’ 41 And the ten having heard, began to be much displeased at James and John, 42 but Jesus having called them near, saith to them, ‘Ye have known that they who are considered to rule the nations do exercise lordship over them, and their great ones do exercise authority upon them; 43 but not so shall it be among you; but whoever may will to become great among you, he shall be your minister, 44 and whoever of you may will to become first, he shall be servant of all; 45 for even the Son of Man came not to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.’
Matthew 28:18-20 When Jesus came near, He spoke to them. He said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations: Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to do everything I have commanded you. And remember that I am with you until the full end of the age."
Luke 10:17-21 17 And the seventy turned back with joy, saying, ‘Sir, even the demons are being subjected to us in Your name;’ 18 and He said to them, ‘I was beholding the Adversary, as lightning from the heaven having fallen; 19 lo, I give to you the authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and on all the power of the enemy, and nothing by any means shall hurt you; 20 but, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subjected to you, but rejoice rather that your names were written in the heavens.’ 21 In that hour was Jesus glad in the Spirit, and said, ‘I do confess to You, Father, Lord of the heaven and of the earth, that You hide these things from wise men and understanding, and did reveal them to babes; yes, Father, because so it became good pleasure before You.
It is God's great pleasure to see child-like believers speak in the transforming power of His word - His name, the name of Yeshua (or "Jesus", or "Haysoos", or "Yesu," etc.), stands for all the power of heaven here on earth!
And why does the authority not take precedence here in the natural realm?
Mark 6:5-6 He couldn't work any miracles there except to lay his hands on a few sick people and cure them. Their unbelief amazed Him. The Jesus went around to the villages and taught.
At least He taught... what MERCY! And teaching changes people's belief structures... like what's happening right now in your own brain as you ponder the possibility of SPEAKING and TOUCHING to change lives!
For the Truth to reign in one, it's gotta be brain first, heart second, I believe. So what do you THINK??? Challenge the thought structures that keep you locked in your mediocrity! You alone can c - h - a - l - l - e - n - g - e that thinking! Let the Word of God burst into its authority and POWER in your life - read it as if your life depended on it!
And when she understands this truth, even a child can transform culture from darkness to light.... standing in the authority of Jesus!
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Express Yourself!
"Then you'll know your love is real!" (Madonna)
My wife and I were talking about a conversation I had with my boy, Josiah, tonight. He had congratulated me (again) on my studio. He's really excited about it and I try to open up to him whenever he expresses himself to me with enthusiasm (or not). So I was talking to him as I was moving away from the living room into my studio (into what was formerly the garage) and as I sat down, the last thing I said (I think it was something like, "I'm really glad you like it, Josiah! You're the greatest too!") echoed off the walls and I heard this strangely childlike voice... and I thought, that was weird.
But my wife doesn't think so.
She says, "I think it's great the way that you express yourself. It's childlike and expressive and that's what guys are missing - that expressiveness. Guys just don't know how to open up express themselves and say what they feel and it's just like,.... they're WEIRD! (ha ha!) And you shouldn't try to change it or feel bad about it or anything! 'Cos it's wonderful and I love it!
Ain't she cool?
My wife and I were talking about a conversation I had with my boy, Josiah, tonight. He had congratulated me (again) on my studio. He's really excited about it and I try to open up to him whenever he expresses himself to me with enthusiasm (or not). So I was talking to him as I was moving away from the living room into my studio (into what was formerly the garage) and as I sat down, the last thing I said (I think it was something like, "I'm really glad you like it, Josiah! You're the greatest too!") echoed off the walls and I heard this strangely childlike voice... and I thought, that was weird.
But my wife doesn't think so.
She says, "I think it's great the way that you express yourself. It's childlike and expressive and that's what guys are missing - that expressiveness. Guys just don't know how to open up express themselves and say what they feel and it's just like,.... they're WEIRD! (ha ha!) And you shouldn't try to change it or feel bad about it or anything! 'Cos it's wonderful and I love it!
Ain't she cool?
Saturday, March 27, 2004
worship again
Blog for Tuesday, March 23 2004
Psa. 30:0 A Psalm of David: dedication-song of the house. 1 I will extol thee, Jehovah; for thou hast delivered me, and hast not made mine enemies to rejoice over me. 2 Jehovah my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. 3 Jehovah, thou hast brought up my soul from Sheol, thou hast quickened me from among those that go down to the pit. 4 Sing psalms unto Jehovah, ye saints of his, and give thanks in remembrance of his holiness. 5 For a moment [is passed] in his anger, a life in his favour; at even weeping cometh for the night, and at morn there is rejoicing.
I've had a life of worship... I don't know if you understand what this is like, though, so let me explain (although any explanation is NOTHING like the experiencing!) -
Contrary to the preposterous claims of Darwin and your sad college professors, we are made from the breath of a Being who intimately, consciously and (quite) intelligently created everything you see (and can't see). Therefore... (it would stand to reason) one of our highest purposes is fulfilled in connecting with that Person of Source on an intimate level...
And ANY time I engage my soul in the endeavor... BAM! The Creator floods my being with the most amazing joy and fulfillment!
It's really rather amazing. Just saying thanks for the life, death and resurrection of His Son, for instance.... well, it's an extremely powerful connection with my Source, the Creator of all things seen and unseen.
"Thank You, God... Thank You, thank You, thank You... You're so awesome... Thank You for what You've done! Thank You!"
You've acted as silly with a loved one you were grateful to... what's the difference in being so bold with your Maker?
- - - - - - -
But, as Bob Dylan says, "times they are a changin'." And, for me, life is much different now than it was a few years ago. Michelle and I have had a few more children (we are now FAR out numbered by the little people!) and my Mom left for heaven in 2001 (thankfully, just before 9-11) and my Dad in 2003. Because of the painful juxtaposition of celebrating the life of my children in the face of losing my parents to horribly painful deaths, I've lost (almost) all practice of this lifestyle of worship.
But, thanks to that life in my children... and the neverending grace of God, the innocent dance and song of worshipping the Most High is calling to me again. And this morning I'm probing my soul for an answer.
What is this strange process of grieving and loss that's happening inside of me? Is it unending? Is there healing... Is there restoration to my life of praise and worship - those intimate creative exchanges with the Giver of "every good and perfect gift" (James 1:17) whom I miss so?
James also says there can be "no variation, nor turning shadow" in Him... and I believe there is an end to this cycle of loss, grieving and healing... and I'm goin' for it.
Like my bros and sisters of color in the city, it's time for this white boy to be a soul man and shout,
"let my hands and feet join in the song and dance - I'm just gonna praise Him - I'm gonna praise Him..."
Psa. 30:0 A Psalm of David: dedication-song of the house. 1 I will extol thee, Jehovah; for thou hast delivered me, and hast not made mine enemies to rejoice over me. 2 Jehovah my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. 3 Jehovah, thou hast brought up my soul from Sheol, thou hast quickened me from among those that go down to the pit. 4 Sing psalms unto Jehovah, ye saints of his, and give thanks in remembrance of his holiness. 5 For a moment [is passed] in his anger, a life in his favour; at even weeping cometh for the night, and at morn there is rejoicing.
I've had a life of worship... I don't know if you understand what this is like, though, so let me explain (although any explanation is NOTHING like the experiencing!) -
Contrary to the preposterous claims of Darwin and your sad college professors, we are made from the breath of a Being who intimately, consciously and (quite) intelligently created everything you see (and can't see). Therefore... (it would stand to reason) one of our highest purposes is fulfilled in connecting with that Person of Source on an intimate level...
And ANY time I engage my soul in the endeavor... BAM! The Creator floods my being with the most amazing joy and fulfillment!
It's really rather amazing. Just saying thanks for the life, death and resurrection of His Son, for instance.... well, it's an extremely powerful connection with my Source, the Creator of all things seen and unseen.
"Thank You, God... Thank You, thank You, thank You... You're so awesome... Thank You for what You've done! Thank You!"
You've acted as silly with a loved one you were grateful to... what's the difference in being so bold with your Maker?
- - - - - - -
But, as Bob Dylan says, "times they are a changin'." And, for me, life is much different now than it was a few years ago. Michelle and I have had a few more children (we are now FAR out numbered by the little people!) and my Mom left for heaven in 2001 (thankfully, just before 9-11) and my Dad in 2003. Because of the painful juxtaposition of celebrating the life of my children in the face of losing my parents to horribly painful deaths, I've lost (almost) all practice of this lifestyle of worship.
But, thanks to that life in my children... and the neverending grace of God, the innocent dance and song of worshipping the Most High is calling to me again. And this morning I'm probing my soul for an answer.
What is this strange process of grieving and loss that's happening inside of me? Is it unending? Is there healing... Is there restoration to my life of praise and worship - those intimate creative exchanges with the Giver of "every good and perfect gift" (James 1:17) whom I miss so?
James also says there can be "no variation, nor turning shadow" in Him... and I believe there is an end to this cycle of loss, grieving and healing... and I'm goin' for it.
Like my bros and sisters of color in the city, it's time for this white boy to be a soul man and shout,
"let my hands and feet join in the song and dance - I'm just gonna praise Him - I'm gonna praise Him..."
Saturday, March 6, 2004
Nuance
My boy and my girl entertained me on the piano this morning...
in between "Static Shock" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"!
The "pianoforte" (as it was first named) is such a valiant instrument... it's wood and steel ring true and pure into our senses.
One particular moment occurred with both Josiah and Grace this morning... that moment when the sounds of the strings pierce your heart with their simplicity and intrinsic peculiarity of resonance. The piano speaks better quietly, perhaps. And maybe that's the reason that the "forte" was dropped from its name.
Grace had been pounding away ("fingers only!" is my only rule!) with gleeful abandon... then she stopped to announce a special movement of her performance - "a Cinderella song."
She played delicately a song. She paused after some tinkling of the higher notes and asked,
"Can you tell what Cinderella is doing?"
I said "Dancing down the stairs."
"No! She's Dancing with her handsome PRINCE!"
She's a self-made girl. I love that. (Got the dancing part right, though, didn't I? :-D )
After noticing how she was able to communicate (somewhat) with her music, a wonderfully mature expression came over her 3 year old face and she listened... really listened... to the sounds she was making. At one point she had slowed to striking a single string... and smiled at the sound.
That's the nuance I'm talking about.
The intimate, delicate delight in music, sight, ambient noise, expression, human moments, animal frolic, design excellence, and so much more... the sheer joy that comes from beholding something good...
Like Yeshua experienced (in His pre-incarnate state) after muddling around with the substance of matter -
"And God saw everything He had made and, behold, it was very good." Genesis 1:31
Not just "good," but "very good." His gentle nuance crowned all creation... with humanity... very good.
This challenges me. I want to thrive in that creative nuance. I'm so grateful for these moments, when my boys, my girl and my beautiful wife (who loves to spin in the living room with our children) deeply move me to express myself... to lavishly, exuberantly and passionately express myself.
Touching the strings... with grace... just like my son and daughter!
in between "Static Shock" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"!
The "pianoforte" (as it was first named) is such a valiant instrument... it's wood and steel ring true and pure into our senses.
One particular moment occurred with both Josiah and Grace this morning... that moment when the sounds of the strings pierce your heart with their simplicity and intrinsic peculiarity of resonance. The piano speaks better quietly, perhaps. And maybe that's the reason that the "forte" was dropped from its name.
Grace had been pounding away ("fingers only!" is my only rule!) with gleeful abandon... then she stopped to announce a special movement of her performance - "a Cinderella song."
She played delicately a song. She paused after some tinkling of the higher notes and asked,
"Can you tell what Cinderella is doing?"
I said "Dancing down the stairs."
"No! She's Dancing with her handsome PRINCE!"
She's a self-made girl. I love that. (Got the dancing part right, though, didn't I? :-D )
After noticing how she was able to communicate (somewhat) with her music, a wonderfully mature expression came over her 3 year old face and she listened... really listened... to the sounds she was making. At one point she had slowed to striking a single string... and smiled at the sound.
That's the nuance I'm talking about.
The intimate, delicate delight in music, sight, ambient noise, expression, human moments, animal frolic, design excellence, and so much more... the sheer joy that comes from beholding something good...
Like Yeshua experienced (in His pre-incarnate state) after muddling around with the substance of matter -
"And God saw everything He had made and, behold, it was very good." Genesis 1:31
Not just "good," but "very good." His gentle nuance crowned all creation... with humanity... very good.
This challenges me. I want to thrive in that creative nuance. I'm so grateful for these moments, when my boys, my girl and my beautiful wife (who loves to spin in the living room with our children) deeply move me to express myself... to lavishly, exuberantly and passionately express myself.
Touching the strings... with grace... just like my son and daughter!
Monday, March 1, 2004
first impression living
We forget.
My boy, Josiah, dances. He dances like... well, a lot like Billy Elliot now... and with certain sparks of the likes of Gene Kelly and Gregory Hines! The latest thing I captured on video, for instance, shows the little guy (just 5) dancing with a hat! The hat doesn't leave him for longer than a moment. And he's constantly got his hands on it, flipping and turning the prop. The rest of his body is doing a combination of Buster Keaton slapstick and the above mentioned - dancing, literally, on the walls!
And this is what's inside of us. We are dancers. We are Jazz dancers, baby. We can turn any rythym, any contorted moment into a symphony of coordination and flash. We are human... it's what humans do best -
I M P R oh V I Z E!
So live by your first impressions... "walk humbly with your God, do justice, love mercy" and DANCE OUT your good urges!
(above passage from Micah 6:8)
My boy, Josiah, dances. He dances like... well, a lot like Billy Elliot now... and with certain sparks of the likes of Gene Kelly and Gregory Hines! The latest thing I captured on video, for instance, shows the little guy (just 5) dancing with a hat! The hat doesn't leave him for longer than a moment. And he's constantly got his hands on it, flipping and turning the prop. The rest of his body is doing a combination of Buster Keaton slapstick and the above mentioned - dancing, literally, on the walls!
And this is what's inside of us. We are dancers. We are Jazz dancers, baby. We can turn any rythym, any contorted moment into a symphony of coordination and flash. We are human... it's what humans do best -
I M P R oh V I Z E!
So live by your first impressions... "walk humbly with your God, do justice, love mercy" and DANCE OUT your good urges!
(above passage from Micah 6:8)
Monday, February 23, 2004
Papa in Training
This is a story of forgiveness... forgiving myself and others who didn't dare to believe the best in me. It's the story of me becoming a parent... "sometimes parents just don't understand" seems (still) to be the theme of the rebellious rapper (as IF the "fresh prince" (will smith) could be rebellious!)... but I don't want to be one of THOSE kinds of parents. I want to understand.
I want to understand them and love them and know them.... when they're 2 and stuck in-between talkless and the explosion of thought... when they're 5 and beginning to express their appreciation for the intrinsic beauty of the souls around them... when they're 8, 13 (exploding again!), 19 (now a man... now a woman), 28, 42 and 90. After that, I will surely let them go to God alone... right? WRONG!
I'm forever the partner with God on this one.
One thing that has been really difficult to reconcile regarding this parenting thing... is the deaths of my Mom and Dad. You ought to go listen to Sarah Mclachlan do her new song, Fallen: "heaven bent to take my hand..." about the death of her mother and the birth of her baby daughter...
Man! Can I identify with that! Had my boy Simeon around the death (graduation) of my Mom... and my boy Elijah around my Dad's following my Mom into heaven... all in the last 2.5 years... crazy as hell, I'll tell ya.
But I learned that the death of the flesh (and the attendant hope of resurrection) is ALL part of LIFE! Life is not only the physical being! Life is the spirit in a person... who transcends time and place... to become all that they were meant to be.
Sometimes a Savant of a person achieves a measure of that transcendent expression here on earth... in this present, dusty, mortal shell.
And sometimes their dreams are preserved only for heaven and the hereafter (which may occur back here on terra firma!)... and they'll never get to fully express that burning desire and inner dream... until they are in the presence of the One who knows it well.
But my Fatherhood isn't waiting! It can't! I must love them selflessly, wholly, abandoned with the deepest fires of passion and wonder.... now... before I disappear from their learning gaze.
And that's my prayer: that I would find my place in time - here - (in the face of "al panai!") my children.
My wonder-seeking, glory-spilling, screaming, laughing, exploring, beautifying little ones.
And, Michelle, you are the half of me assumed throughout this discourse... that I would implode and disappear...
without.
I want to understand them and love them and know them.... when they're 2 and stuck in-between talkless and the explosion of thought... when they're 5 and beginning to express their appreciation for the intrinsic beauty of the souls around them... when they're 8, 13 (exploding again!), 19 (now a man... now a woman), 28, 42 and 90. After that, I will surely let them go to God alone... right? WRONG!
I'm forever the partner with God on this one.
One thing that has been really difficult to reconcile regarding this parenting thing... is the deaths of my Mom and Dad. You ought to go listen to Sarah Mclachlan do her new song, Fallen: "heaven bent to take my hand..." about the death of her mother and the birth of her baby daughter...
Man! Can I identify with that! Had my boy Simeon around the death (graduation) of my Mom... and my boy Elijah around my Dad's following my Mom into heaven... all in the last 2.5 years... crazy as hell, I'll tell ya.
But I learned that the death of the flesh (and the attendant hope of resurrection) is ALL part of LIFE! Life is not only the physical being! Life is the spirit in a person... who transcends time and place... to become all that they were meant to be.
Sometimes a Savant of a person achieves a measure of that transcendent expression here on earth... in this present, dusty, mortal shell.
And sometimes their dreams are preserved only for heaven and the hereafter (which may occur back here on terra firma!)... and they'll never get to fully express that burning desire and inner dream... until they are in the presence of the One who knows it well.
But my Fatherhood isn't waiting! It can't! I must love them selflessly, wholly, abandoned with the deepest fires of passion and wonder.... now... before I disappear from their learning gaze.
And that's my prayer: that I would find my place in time - here - (in the face of "al panai!") my children.
My wonder-seeking, glory-spilling, screaming, laughing, exploring, beautifying little ones.
And, Michelle, you are the half of me assumed throughout this discourse... that I would implode and disappear...
without.
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