Wednesday, September 30, 2015
The gift of prophecy?
Way back when, as a sophomore in college, preparing to return home for summer break, a fellow where I worked insisted when I came back to school in the fall, we were going out. Not hardly. In the first place, I didn't like the guy. In the second place, we worked in a store several miles away from the school. We worked till 10:30 PM and the buses stopped running at 8:00 PM. My ride home (when she could be bothered to work) was a student madly in love with this guy that wanted to date me. Even if I did like him, which I didn't, I wasn't about to risk my only transportation, no matter how unreliable. The last night I worked that May, this man repeated his demand that we go out in the fall. I coldly informed him I expected to be engaged when I returned in September. The truth is I didn't know anyone, had no one in mind, and didn't meet the man I married until July 12th-6 weeks after I stated that I would be engaged! Is that the gift of prophecy? Maybe it's just God's wonderful sense of humor.
The truth of the matter is that prophecy is no joke. Over the years, I've been accused of having a sharp tongue and I suppose I deserve the description, but those with the gift of prophecy are not supposed to be flatterers. My sharpness has become even more noticeable on Facebook. Some people are VERY thin skinned. No matter what I say or how I say it, they feel compelled to correct me in an unflattering way. There's also culture conflict. This is the age of PC, which I most certainly am not. Most politically correct speech is designed to intimidate and obfuscate. However, knowing that, it is also wise to pick my battles carefully.
A friend suggested I not engage in posts I happen to disagree with. And, if the response is nasty, ignore it. For the most part, I do ignore the nasty responses. However, when it comes to commenting on something I disagree with, I have to wonder if the Lord wants me to try to gently suggest there may be a better answer.
For example, someone made the comment that conservatives would tear the Pope apart about his stance on global warming. I asked how the liberals would respond to his stance on abortion and gay marriage. A man posted that God didn't care who we married and didn't want women to suffer because of unplanned pregnancy. It's obvious He was speaking for God without ever reading God's Word. I told him so, after asking him if he'd ever had women weep in his arms because they chose termination and regretted it. He said I had a cold, rigid dogma and he didn't want to hear it.
We listen to Ravi Zacharias on Sunday mornings before going to church. For those of you unfamiliar with his name, he is from India. At the age on 17, hospitalized after a failed suicide attempt, he came to know Jesus as his Savior. God has used his brilliance mightily since that time. He's so brilliant, my husband says his logic gives him a headache. Mr. Zacharias travels the world, speaking and debating on college campuses. It's not easy to disagree with people who don't want to hear it and he makes his living at it.
Now, to be clear, the gift of prophecy is somewhat different from prophecy. Prophecy is foretelling the future. There were many in the Old Testament. My point is that they all suffered a great deal for doing what God told them to do. Ravi Zacharia has suffered a great deal, too. I doubt that he considers himself a prophet-someone who foretells the future. To me, he is a foreteller of the truth. That's the gift of prophecy. Someone who warns others if they ignore consequences of not following God's ways and follow their own.
Jesus told the parable of the soils in the New Testament. One of those soils is hard, trampled down as a path. Seed that falls on it it carried away by the birds. There seems to be many people in this country who are "hardened soil." They don't want to hear what God has to say, can't be bothered to check out what anyone else says about God's Word, just dismiss it summarily.
It would seem that I've been called to work the hard soil. I don't give up on anyone and I seem attracted to those who disagree with me-some very strongly. Whether or not they disagree with me is not the point. The problem is that few to none can show me where I'm wrong in my beliefs about God and and His Word. I would welcome anyone who can teach me instead of refuting me out of superstition, tradition, anger, or ignorance. Anyone who disagrees with me has every right to do so. AND VICE VERSA.
Going back to whether or not I should say something, I need to be careful that I am not dogmatic or belligerent, but obedient. If I believe the Lord would have me suggest an alternative view, I need to obey. If I disagree only because I'm wired to be a conflict thinker, there is going to be unnecessary conflict. By the same token, changing someone's mind or lifestyle is not my job. That's God's. My job is to be the messenger, the ambassador. He does the changing.
What most people don't realize is my disagreement with their beliefs has two underlying reasons and neither have anything to do with me. First, I believe God should be worshipped and adored. He is worthy of that at the very least. We should also be grateful. He's given us so much more than we deserve. Even better, He's not given us what we really deserve. Secondly, those who are living an in-your-face defiance and expecting God to approve are doing themselves so much damage. Their relationship with the God of the universe is either non-existent or damaged. Who wants that for themselves or anyone else? The Bible says God is not willing for anyone to perish, but for all to come to repentance. That's my desire, too.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Happy birthday, Son!
Today is my youngest son's birthday and although he hates attention drawn to himself, this proud mother can't help herself. Forgive me, Son. You don't have a choice. The Lord insists.
Sometimes your sense of humor came through and you didn't even know it. I remember the time we were moving to San Antonio from Ft. Huachuca. Dad told me to turn the car around and be ready for him to get in and drive us away after he signed out. Trouble is, I didn't realize there was another exit at the top of the hill and I tried to turn the car around in a rut filled dirt parking lot. The homemade trailer we were pulling caught one of the ruts, jack knifed, and left a huge dent in the side of the car. Dad was furious with me. "I suppose you're going to be mad at me all the way to San Antonio," I said.
"I probably will," was his honest response. There was dead silence for several miles on that interminable 28 mile stretch of nothing between Ft. Huachuca and Interstate 10.
Finally, the quiet voice of a six year old came from the back seat. "Is Mommy going to get a whipping?" It broke us up and the rest of the trip was made in a more jovial mood. In fact, somewhere east of El Paso, Dad asked you and your brother to pull the inside panel off the wheel area and try to kick the dent out of the car. Don't think it worked.
When we got to San Antonio, we decided that International Travelall was much too big for roads in Honolulu. Trading it in for a Pacer was the decision. However, we still had Chief, our 35 pound dog and we were unsure he would fit under the hatchback. We took him to the dealership. Dad walked to the Pacer on display, opened the hatchback and told the dog to get in. Chief hopped in, Dad closed the door and told the approaching salesman, "OK, now we can talk."
Trouble is, you, the six year old, is the one who wanted to talk. The first thing out of your mouth is the story of the dent. Dad excused us, saying it was time for you boys to eat. We stopped at a fast food place, got the 2 of you hamburgers, dropped you off at the apartment we were renting and then he and I went back to make the deal on the car.
Speaking of hamburgers, I remember the time you were sick of them. No blame there. We were on the road-again. This time, it was from New Jersey to Colorado. We'd stayed in hotels until we could find a place to buy. We thought it might be a good idea since Viet Nam was still raging and as a serviceman, Dad could easily have been called to the cause, leaving the 3 of us and the dog with no home. We usually lived on base, but base housing at that time was not available to dependents without the active duty person. The house we bought had no stove and we ate out again the last night before the stove came so I could finally cook something besides hamburgers. It was more than you could bear. You looked at that hamburger and looked down at your hands and back again. I don't think you touched it. I'm not sure any of us did. Three weeks of McDonald's was enough to cure anyone.
I'm on a roll as far as you and food are concerned. You were in kindergarten and your brother was in the 4th grade when we were living in Ft. Huachuca. He came home from school one day and announced I needed to make cupcakes for the Halloween party at school the next day. You started hopping up and down, demanding I make them for your class, too. They were a rush job, even more so than your brother's, who got his order in first-at the last minute. Needless to say, they weren't my best effort, but your 4 year old heart was deeply touched. You stood on tiptoe, looking at those cupcakes spread across the top of the washer and dryer. "Oh, Mommy, they're so pretty!"
Let me hasten to add that food and you are not my only memories. I still can see you outside on the street in Rolla, playing "football" with half a dozen munchkins a third your size. You were a big boy and they weren't at all large for their age. You'd stand there, with those tykes hanging all over you. They were having a big time. Later, they'd tell their mother with a big swagger and bigger grin, "I beat up Dan!"
When I was with you many years later, I was deeply impressed at the way you had such in-depth conversations with your teenage son. You treated him with respect and dignity. Not something all dads have the patience or understanding to do. Now, he's showing the world the results of a good dad with a teenage son.
It's one thing to treat a respectful child with dignity and respect, but you were also compassionate and understanding when most parents would have given up or at least, not done nearly so much as you did. You are an amazing dad and now, as a grandpa, you are still amazing.
I also remember the time you played football in Rolla-with the high school team, not neighborhood little ones. The Waynesville team not only tripled teamed you, one of them launched himself at you like a missle, striking you in the back with his helmet propelled into you with the full weight of his lance straight body behind it. You and I spent the next week traveling back and forth between Rolla and Ft. Leonard Wood, at the doctor's office. Finally, I asked the doctor why he had to see you so frequently. His response was that there was the possibility you liver was bruised and if so, you could bleed to death before anyone knew what was wrong! I still get chills at the thought at how close we came to losing you.
How grateful I am God gave you to us and has kept you safe. You've been a good son, a great father, and you chose a wonderful wife that loves you. Can't ask for more than that. You've blessed your parents in ways we could not begin to tell, and we're grateful for you. The happiest of days to you and a great year to follow.
Sometimes your sense of humor came through and you didn't even know it. I remember the time we were moving to San Antonio from Ft. Huachuca. Dad told me to turn the car around and be ready for him to get in and drive us away after he signed out. Trouble is, I didn't realize there was another exit at the top of the hill and I tried to turn the car around in a rut filled dirt parking lot. The homemade trailer we were pulling caught one of the ruts, jack knifed, and left a huge dent in the side of the car. Dad was furious with me. "I suppose you're going to be mad at me all the way to San Antonio," I said.
"I probably will," was his honest response. There was dead silence for several miles on that interminable 28 mile stretch of nothing between Ft. Huachuca and Interstate 10.
Finally, the quiet voice of a six year old came from the back seat. "Is Mommy going to get a whipping?" It broke us up and the rest of the trip was made in a more jovial mood. In fact, somewhere east of El Paso, Dad asked you and your brother to pull the inside panel off the wheel area and try to kick the dent out of the car. Don't think it worked.
When we got to San Antonio, we decided that International Travelall was much too big for roads in Honolulu. Trading it in for a Pacer was the decision. However, we still had Chief, our 35 pound dog and we were unsure he would fit under the hatchback. We took him to the dealership. Dad walked to the Pacer on display, opened the hatchback and told the dog to get in. Chief hopped in, Dad closed the door and told the approaching salesman, "OK, now we can talk."
Trouble is, you, the six year old, is the one who wanted to talk. The first thing out of your mouth is the story of the dent. Dad excused us, saying it was time for you boys to eat. We stopped at a fast food place, got the 2 of you hamburgers, dropped you off at the apartment we were renting and then he and I went back to make the deal on the car.
Speaking of hamburgers, I remember the time you were sick of them. No blame there. We were on the road-again. This time, it was from New Jersey to Colorado. We'd stayed in hotels until we could find a place to buy. We thought it might be a good idea since Viet Nam was still raging and as a serviceman, Dad could easily have been called to the cause, leaving the 3 of us and the dog with no home. We usually lived on base, but base housing at that time was not available to dependents without the active duty person. The house we bought had no stove and we ate out again the last night before the stove came so I could finally cook something besides hamburgers. It was more than you could bear. You looked at that hamburger and looked down at your hands and back again. I don't think you touched it. I'm not sure any of us did. Three weeks of McDonald's was enough to cure anyone.
I'm on a roll as far as you and food are concerned. You were in kindergarten and your brother was in the 4th grade when we were living in Ft. Huachuca. He came home from school one day and announced I needed to make cupcakes for the Halloween party at school the next day. You started hopping up and down, demanding I make them for your class, too. They were a rush job, even more so than your brother's, who got his order in first-at the last minute. Needless to say, they weren't my best effort, but your 4 year old heart was deeply touched. You stood on tiptoe, looking at those cupcakes spread across the top of the washer and dryer. "Oh, Mommy, they're so pretty!"
Let me hasten to add that food and you are not my only memories. I still can see you outside on the street in Rolla, playing "football" with half a dozen munchkins a third your size. You were a big boy and they weren't at all large for their age. You'd stand there, with those tykes hanging all over you. They were having a big time. Later, they'd tell their mother with a big swagger and bigger grin, "I beat up Dan!"
When I was with you many years later, I was deeply impressed at the way you had such in-depth conversations with your teenage son. You treated him with respect and dignity. Not something all dads have the patience or understanding to do. Now, he's showing the world the results of a good dad with a teenage son.
It's one thing to treat a respectful child with dignity and respect, but you were also compassionate and understanding when most parents would have given up or at least, not done nearly so much as you did. You are an amazing dad and now, as a grandpa, you are still amazing.
I also remember the time you played football in Rolla-with the high school team, not neighborhood little ones. The Waynesville team not only tripled teamed you, one of them launched himself at you like a missle, striking you in the back with his helmet propelled into you with the full weight of his lance straight body behind it. You and I spent the next week traveling back and forth between Rolla and Ft. Leonard Wood, at the doctor's office. Finally, I asked the doctor why he had to see you so frequently. His response was that there was the possibility you liver was bruised and if so, you could bleed to death before anyone knew what was wrong! I still get chills at the thought at how close we came to losing you.
How grateful I am God gave you to us and has kept you safe. You've been a good son, a great father, and you chose a wonderful wife that loves you. Can't ask for more than that. You've blessed your parents in ways we could not begin to tell, and we're grateful for you. The happiest of days to you and a great year to follow.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Trump or trumped?
The news (but not Facebook) has been pounding Trump because he didn't stop the member of his audience from calling Obama a Muslim. What shocks me is that even though I am deaf in one ear, I caught something NO ONE ELSE has caught-at least no one has said anything. As the questioner was proclaiming Obama a Muslim, Trump very quietly mumbled, "Right."
Now, to be fair to Mr. Trump, he may not have been agreeing with the man who was speaking. There's been many times I've nodded to let the person talking know I'm really listening instead of actually agreeing with them. I get the sense he was doing that more than agreeing with the man's statement.
However, it did bring up something this morning that brought cold chills. A Republican and a Democrat were on FNC discussing the situation. As an aside, I must say it's the first time both parties acted with dignity. Usually, they're talking over one another and I get disgusted, not information. This time, each man let the other speak. What ran my blood cold was that the Democrat said he expected all other debates to be about whether each and every candidate is willing to say Obama is or is not a Christian. If I'm not mistaken, he said the candidates would be DEMANDED to give their answer.
GOTCHA!
No matter what the candidate says, it's going to really upset some people and cost the candidate votes, which, of course, is the whole purpose of the question. Those who believe Obama is a Christian will refuse to listen to anything else if the candidate says no. Those who believe he is a Muslim will not listen to anything else if the candidate declares they believe Obama to be a Christian.
The problem is, no one knows the truth about anyone but God and the individual. Jesus said we'd be known by our fruit, making it easier to pass judgment on some more than others, but then Jesus also plainly stated we are not to judge others. I might even go so far as to say anyone who declares him to be a Christian might want to seek God's forgiveness for usurping His authority.
It's what God says about us that counts. It may not even be what we say about ourselves that counts. Jesus also said there would be those who called on Him and He would say,"Depart from Me, I never knew you." He also says that His sheep know Him and His voice. No one will snatch them out of the His hand. By judging others are weakening God's grace? Only God knows who's been forgiven and who hasn't really asked. Nor do I want to cheapen God's grace and call someone is a Christian when I don't know anyone's heart but my own. That's not to say our actions don't give away what's in our hearts and certainly Obama has been more gracious to Muslims than Christians, so I can understand why people feel that way. In fact, the Lord convicted me of saying it myself. I now choose to say He's in God's hands and that's where I'll leave him.
Pastor Andy Stanley (YOUR MOVE) did several excellent messages on this very subject not long ago. He pointed out Christians cross a very broad spectrum. It was his contention we'd do better to call ourselves a "follower, a disciple, a learner." With that mindset, we are more likely to be like Christ and leave no doubt where we stand.
There are those who call themselves a Christian by default - not a Muslim, Bhuddist, Shintoist, Wiccan, atheist, agnostic, etc. On the other end of the spectrum is a type of paranoid legalism that decides anyone who does something they believe to be wrong is not a Christian. You know the type. "If you do _________, you're not a Christian. I once had a 16 year old cousin who was 3 months pregnant when she married say I wasn't a Christian because I had on lipstick. Or, "If you don't do____________, you're not a Christian. I've been declared a heathen for not having long hair and not always wearing a dress. There's even the dear souls who proclaim if you don't belong to their denomination, you're not a Christian. An Episcopalian did that to me many years ago and she's not the only one. You get the picture.
Therefore, if I were on that stage, being asked to declare whether or not Obama is a Christian as a litmus test to my ability to lead this country, I would answer with a strong, "I don't know, and neither do you. Only God knows. When I stand before God in eternity, He will not ask me one single question about Obama. He will ONLY ask me about my relationship with Jesus Christ."
Of course, any candidate who refuses to take the bait will be accused of weaseling out, like Carly Fiorina was accused of weaseling out on the question on which woman should be on the $10 bill. I thought her answer was perfect. She's cracked the glass ceiling without being militant about her rights. I am so far from the glass ceiling, I can't even see it, let alone crack it. The need to put a woman on the $10 bill is a gesture, hoping to placate women's libbers who see unfairness at every turn. It's a futile gesture. Woman who demand it will not be satisfied and women like me have more important things to be concerned about. I'm sure there are those who think I'm weaseling out about Obama's spiritual condition. Think what you will, I can't stop you. I'm only trying to say it's God's choice, not mine. AND, it has no place in the political debate whatsoever. There is NO right answer for any of the candidates. They're wrong if they do and they're wrong if they don't.
It's highly annoying that the question shows the interest is only in ratings and money. Media moguls and journalists are wealthy and influential and the best they can come up with is what do we think about Obama's spiritual condition? Have we dumbed ourselves down as much politically as we have our children educationally?
That question makes the journalist a panderer, a pimp to his station. It certainly has nothing to do with seeking to inform the country as to how those 16 would govern this country for the next 4-8 years. It shows the journalist's bias. Do anything to bring down a Republican. It shows the network's greed. Anything for money and ratings. It's no wonder so many of them have lost their audience.
Me being me, I would also say to the narrator, "I don't know where you stand, either. That's between you and God and I hope, for your sake, your answer agrees with God's."
Now, to be fair to Mr. Trump, he may not have been agreeing with the man who was speaking. There's been many times I've nodded to let the person talking know I'm really listening instead of actually agreeing with them. I get the sense he was doing that more than agreeing with the man's statement.
However, it did bring up something this morning that brought cold chills. A Republican and a Democrat were on FNC discussing the situation. As an aside, I must say it's the first time both parties acted with dignity. Usually, they're talking over one another and I get disgusted, not information. This time, each man let the other speak. What ran my blood cold was that the Democrat said he expected all other debates to be about whether each and every candidate is willing to say Obama is or is not a Christian. If I'm not mistaken, he said the candidates would be DEMANDED to give their answer.
GOTCHA!
No matter what the candidate says, it's going to really upset some people and cost the candidate votes, which, of course, is the whole purpose of the question. Those who believe Obama is a Christian will refuse to listen to anything else if the candidate says no. Those who believe he is a Muslim will not listen to anything else if the candidate declares they believe Obama to be a Christian.
The problem is, no one knows the truth about anyone but God and the individual. Jesus said we'd be known by our fruit, making it easier to pass judgment on some more than others, but then Jesus also plainly stated we are not to judge others. I might even go so far as to say anyone who declares him to be a Christian might want to seek God's forgiveness for usurping His authority.
It's what God says about us that counts. It may not even be what we say about ourselves that counts. Jesus also said there would be those who called on Him and He would say,"Depart from Me, I never knew you." He also says that His sheep know Him and His voice. No one will snatch them out of the His hand. By judging others are weakening God's grace? Only God knows who's been forgiven and who hasn't really asked. Nor do I want to cheapen God's grace and call someone is a Christian when I don't know anyone's heart but my own. That's not to say our actions don't give away what's in our hearts and certainly Obama has been more gracious to Muslims than Christians, so I can understand why people feel that way. In fact, the Lord convicted me of saying it myself. I now choose to say He's in God's hands and that's where I'll leave him.
Pastor Andy Stanley (YOUR MOVE) did several excellent messages on this very subject not long ago. He pointed out Christians cross a very broad spectrum. It was his contention we'd do better to call ourselves a "follower, a disciple, a learner." With that mindset, we are more likely to be like Christ and leave no doubt where we stand.
There are those who call themselves a Christian by default - not a Muslim, Bhuddist, Shintoist, Wiccan, atheist, agnostic, etc. On the other end of the spectrum is a type of paranoid legalism that decides anyone who does something they believe to be wrong is not a Christian. You know the type. "If you do _________, you're not a Christian. I once had a 16 year old cousin who was 3 months pregnant when she married say I wasn't a Christian because I had on lipstick. Or, "If you don't do____________, you're not a Christian. I've been declared a heathen for not having long hair and not always wearing a dress. There's even the dear souls who proclaim if you don't belong to their denomination, you're not a Christian. An Episcopalian did that to me many years ago and she's not the only one. You get the picture.
Therefore, if I were on that stage, being asked to declare whether or not Obama is a Christian as a litmus test to my ability to lead this country, I would answer with a strong, "I don't know, and neither do you. Only God knows. When I stand before God in eternity, He will not ask me one single question about Obama. He will ONLY ask me about my relationship with Jesus Christ."
Of course, any candidate who refuses to take the bait will be accused of weaseling out, like Carly Fiorina was accused of weaseling out on the question on which woman should be on the $10 bill. I thought her answer was perfect. She's cracked the glass ceiling without being militant about her rights. I am so far from the glass ceiling, I can't even see it, let alone crack it. The need to put a woman on the $10 bill is a gesture, hoping to placate women's libbers who see unfairness at every turn. It's a futile gesture. Woman who demand it will not be satisfied and women like me have more important things to be concerned about. I'm sure there are those who think I'm weaseling out about Obama's spiritual condition. Think what you will, I can't stop you. I'm only trying to say it's God's choice, not mine. AND, it has no place in the political debate whatsoever. There is NO right answer for any of the candidates. They're wrong if they do and they're wrong if they don't.
It's highly annoying that the question shows the interest is only in ratings and money. Media moguls and journalists are wealthy and influential and the best they can come up with is what do we think about Obama's spiritual condition? Have we dumbed ourselves down as much politically as we have our children educationally?
That question makes the journalist a panderer, a pimp to his station. It certainly has nothing to do with seeking to inform the country as to how those 16 would govern this country for the next 4-8 years. It shows the journalist's bias. Do anything to bring down a Republican. It shows the network's greed. Anything for money and ratings. It's no wonder so many of them have lost their audience.
Me being me, I would also say to the narrator, "I don't know where you stand, either. That's between you and God and I hope, for your sake, your answer agrees with God's."
Monday, September 14, 2015
Moving to the ghetto?
The word "ghetto" conjures up lots of negative pictures, doesn't it? The primary definition in the dictionary refers to the Jews being forced to live in a segregated area, in some cases, a walled area of a city. In America, we may think of the ghetto as a slum, sometimes referring to blacks trapped in poverty.
The elderly, no matter what their color, need to be aware that we, too, can ghettoize ourselves. It's a choice for us. It's been said that aging is about loss. Loss of youth, beauty, and energy to start with. Then, our hearing and vision starts to go. Depending on how careful we were with oral hygiene, we may start to lose our teeth. If you've been as addicted to food as I have, you certainly lose your figure-if you had one to start with, which I never believed I did. Health starts to deteriorate. Mental acuity slips, making the crossword puzzle a little more difficult and the computer impossible. Reflexes slow. Driving becomes more hazardous and insurance rates skyrocket. Those dreams of owning land outside the city where you could garden and get lots of fresh air are dashed because it's too far from the doctor, the church, and the grocery store. Staying closer to facilities seems the best thing to do.
Then, too, the news is so frightening for some elderly people. I remember my mother's fears of break-ins and assaults because that seemed to be about the only thing she noticed when she watched the daily news broadcasts. I didn't understand it then, but I do now. She didn't have drive-bys to contend with, or cop shootings, or riots, things that have become commonplace in America today.
Politics gets scarier by the day. The ruling class of politicians and their assistants, the media, make decisions about our every day lives we know nothing about. And so, we stick a little closer to home, hoping to stay below the radar.
Differences in religious beliefs have been around for thousands of years, but lately, it seems as though the differences are no longer discussed. If discussed, it may end in screaming at one another. Or it may end in violence. Stick to the church you've always gone to. Unless there, too, someone gets testy and makes you uncomfortable. Then, it's watching the TV evangelists minus the personal interaction with other believers.
Once the children are gone from the home, moving to any place makes it really hard to make friends. At least, that's what I found when our sons no longer brought kids home that enabled family interaction. Young people don't even think about possible consequences of approaching someone they don't know and making a friend. We lose that innocence with age and we stick with long time friends and relatives. They're safe.
The house gets too big, the winters get too cold, the taxes get too high, so we downsize. To a condo, a 55 and over community, a place where people are the same age and like the same things. Ghettoized by choice. It was one of the reasons I was hesitant to move back to Shiloh. Everything is here that is needed for daily life. At Shiloh, we are in spiritual agreement. There is meaningful work for us to do among people who appreciate our efforts. There is frequent socialization with people who think like we do. Facilities, such as the doctor, hospital, drugstores, and grocery stores are .5 miles to 5 miles away.
Change becomes anathema to us. We like our routine and the world is rushing right by us, not even bothering to check us out. Even worse, friends and family we hold dear are leaving. I've recently lost one friend to cancer, may lose one or two the near future. The condo where we used to live has lost many and the church has lost ten since last Christmas. Chilling isn't it?
Saturday, I stepped out of my comfort zone and chipped away at that wall I've built around my life. Those building blocks go up so easily and come down with difficulty. The United Methodist Church has a monthly flea market for several months during snowbird season. The first one was last Saturday. What a pleasure it was to meet new people who were happy and had new things to discuss. Making new friends, reducing the stress of every day humdrum activities, being affirmed by people I'd not met until last Saturday was encouraging. It gave me the opportunity to reach out and be a blessing to others. I like that.
There may come a point when it won't be financially worth my while because people who go to these markets won't buy the same book every month. They'll buy jewelry each month, or food, or knickknacks, but not the book. However, just getting to be around people I'll only see 5 or 6 times a year will still be worth it. Yeah, I'm going to do it again next month. I want to stay out of the ghetto.
The elderly, no matter what their color, need to be aware that we, too, can ghettoize ourselves. It's a choice for us. It's been said that aging is about loss. Loss of youth, beauty, and energy to start with. Then, our hearing and vision starts to go. Depending on how careful we were with oral hygiene, we may start to lose our teeth. If you've been as addicted to food as I have, you certainly lose your figure-if you had one to start with, which I never believed I did. Health starts to deteriorate. Mental acuity slips, making the crossword puzzle a little more difficult and the computer impossible. Reflexes slow. Driving becomes more hazardous and insurance rates skyrocket. Those dreams of owning land outside the city where you could garden and get lots of fresh air are dashed because it's too far from the doctor, the church, and the grocery store. Staying closer to facilities seems the best thing to do.
Then, too, the news is so frightening for some elderly people. I remember my mother's fears of break-ins and assaults because that seemed to be about the only thing she noticed when she watched the daily news broadcasts. I didn't understand it then, but I do now. She didn't have drive-bys to contend with, or cop shootings, or riots, things that have become commonplace in America today.
Politics gets scarier by the day. The ruling class of politicians and their assistants, the media, make decisions about our every day lives we know nothing about. And so, we stick a little closer to home, hoping to stay below the radar.
Differences in religious beliefs have been around for thousands of years, but lately, it seems as though the differences are no longer discussed. If discussed, it may end in screaming at one another. Or it may end in violence. Stick to the church you've always gone to. Unless there, too, someone gets testy and makes you uncomfortable. Then, it's watching the TV evangelists minus the personal interaction with other believers.
Once the children are gone from the home, moving to any place makes it really hard to make friends. At least, that's what I found when our sons no longer brought kids home that enabled family interaction. Young people don't even think about possible consequences of approaching someone they don't know and making a friend. We lose that innocence with age and we stick with long time friends and relatives. They're safe.
The house gets too big, the winters get too cold, the taxes get too high, so we downsize. To a condo, a 55 and over community, a place where people are the same age and like the same things. Ghettoized by choice. It was one of the reasons I was hesitant to move back to Shiloh. Everything is here that is needed for daily life. At Shiloh, we are in spiritual agreement. There is meaningful work for us to do among people who appreciate our efforts. There is frequent socialization with people who think like we do. Facilities, such as the doctor, hospital, drugstores, and grocery stores are .5 miles to 5 miles away.
Change becomes anathema to us. We like our routine and the world is rushing right by us, not even bothering to check us out. Even worse, friends and family we hold dear are leaving. I've recently lost one friend to cancer, may lose one or two the near future. The condo where we used to live has lost many and the church has lost ten since last Christmas. Chilling isn't it?
Saturday, I stepped out of my comfort zone and chipped away at that wall I've built around my life. Those building blocks go up so easily and come down with difficulty. The United Methodist Church has a monthly flea market for several months during snowbird season. The first one was last Saturday. What a pleasure it was to meet new people who were happy and had new things to discuss. Making new friends, reducing the stress of every day humdrum activities, being affirmed by people I'd not met until last Saturday was encouraging. It gave me the opportunity to reach out and be a blessing to others. I like that.
There may come a point when it won't be financially worth my while because people who go to these markets won't buy the same book every month. They'll buy jewelry each month, or food, or knickknacks, but not the book. However, just getting to be around people I'll only see 5 or 6 times a year will still be worth it. Yeah, I'm going to do it again next month. I want to stay out of the ghetto.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Curses! (cont.)
Yesterday, I wrote about how distressing it is to hear foul language and to see prurient pictures. I no more than shut my computer off and in His still, small whisper, the Lord said, "What about the name calling you do?" Ouch! I hear you, Lord.
While Bob and I were running errands, we listened to Glen Beck spend a great deal of time apologizing to Sarah Palin for calling her a clown. Like him, how many times have I popped off about someone I disagree with? Am I cursing them? I believe me Bible says yes. Calling someone a name, whether it's vulgar or mild (jerk, turkey, clown, idiot, joke, nutcase, creep, etc.) is saying I doubt their competency as a person. The Bible says we are to delight in people and yes, I have to admit, some are easier to find delightful than others.
But, I'm not in the shoes of those with whom I disagree. I haven't gone through what they've endured. And I'm certainly not their judge. The Lord is. And, He's mine as well. Proverbs says where words are many, sin is not absent. I need to heed those words. James also talks of the tongue being a fire. It so easily gets out of control.
So, why have I, in times past, called someone names? Because I'm angry. Frustrated. I feel helpless. I can honestly say I don't hate them. I've moved past that hurdle. I'm angry because I see my world turning it's back on my Lord and it frustrates me. That's what makes me in the wrong, not them.
Their behavior should grieve me, like it does the Lord, rather than getting angry about something over which I have no control. Trying to convince some people there's a better way can be hopeless and that makes me feel helpless. In the parable of the soils, some seed falls on hard soil and recently, I've come to the conclusion that the Lord wants me to minister to those whose hearts are hard. Why would He do that? BECAUSE HE LOVES THEM (AND ME) THAT MUCH. He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, even those who've fallen on hard soil and the birds carry the seed away. The older I get, the more awesome God's love for us becomes.
Therefore, the fault lies with me and my negativity, not with them. I'm the angry one, the frustrated one, the helpless one. That shouts loud and clear that I am also the distrusting one. His Word tells us that whatever is not of faith is SIN. Ouch again. If I truly trust the Lord, if I truly believe that He is in control, then my emotions need to be in His control. I need to take my anger, my negative emotions to Him and seek His Presence and His peace. He'll handle those who think they have the world by the tail. In His time, in His way.
I was convicted and I have repented. I need to turn my words, my thoughts, my motives, my perspectives, my attitudes over to the Lord, as well as my actions. Next, I need to pray for those who think so differently than me. Just today, someone said she was so angry with the President. In her words, he was a joke. I didn't know her well enough to disagree with her, but I did say I believed it won't be long before Jesus returns and the President may well be a part of God's plan.
A journalist who's lived in Jerusalem for over 30 years said that Israel considers America God. I groaned inwardly and said to myself, "We're done." God says He will not share His glory with another. America has been very protective of Israel for many years. The time may soon be for Israel to call upon the Lord for protection. I didn't have to say all that for my new friend. When I mentioned the Lord's return, and that the President was God's choice, she said she'd never thought about it that way. Hopefully, it took some of the pressure off.
I not only hinder the Spirit's work in the world by my name calling, I hinder His work in me. Have you ever met Christians who are at perfect peace and then learned a little of their history, only to find out they're suffering terrible things? Those kind of people humble me and I'm grateful for them. They're an example I want to follow. I pray consistently that hearts will be changed, especially mine. I do NOT want to be one of those Christians who unbelievers look at and say if that's what a Christian is like, count me out.
While Bob and I were running errands, we listened to Glen Beck spend a great deal of time apologizing to Sarah Palin for calling her a clown. Like him, how many times have I popped off about someone I disagree with? Am I cursing them? I believe me Bible says yes. Calling someone a name, whether it's vulgar or mild (jerk, turkey, clown, idiot, joke, nutcase, creep, etc.) is saying I doubt their competency as a person. The Bible says we are to delight in people and yes, I have to admit, some are easier to find delightful than others.
But, I'm not in the shoes of those with whom I disagree. I haven't gone through what they've endured. And I'm certainly not their judge. The Lord is. And, He's mine as well. Proverbs says where words are many, sin is not absent. I need to heed those words. James also talks of the tongue being a fire. It so easily gets out of control.
So, why have I, in times past, called someone names? Because I'm angry. Frustrated. I feel helpless. I can honestly say I don't hate them. I've moved past that hurdle. I'm angry because I see my world turning it's back on my Lord and it frustrates me. That's what makes me in the wrong, not them.
Their behavior should grieve me, like it does the Lord, rather than getting angry about something over which I have no control. Trying to convince some people there's a better way can be hopeless and that makes me feel helpless. In the parable of the soils, some seed falls on hard soil and recently, I've come to the conclusion that the Lord wants me to minister to those whose hearts are hard. Why would He do that? BECAUSE HE LOVES THEM (AND ME) THAT MUCH. He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, even those who've fallen on hard soil and the birds carry the seed away. The older I get, the more awesome God's love for us becomes.
Therefore, the fault lies with me and my negativity, not with them. I'm the angry one, the frustrated one, the helpless one. That shouts loud and clear that I am also the distrusting one. His Word tells us that whatever is not of faith is SIN. Ouch again. If I truly trust the Lord, if I truly believe that He is in control, then my emotions need to be in His control. I need to take my anger, my negative emotions to Him and seek His Presence and His peace. He'll handle those who think they have the world by the tail. In His time, in His way.
I was convicted and I have repented. I need to turn my words, my thoughts, my motives, my perspectives, my attitudes over to the Lord, as well as my actions. Next, I need to pray for those who think so differently than me. Just today, someone said she was so angry with the President. In her words, he was a joke. I didn't know her well enough to disagree with her, but I did say I believed it won't be long before Jesus returns and the President may well be a part of God's plan.
A journalist who's lived in Jerusalem for over 30 years said that Israel considers America God. I groaned inwardly and said to myself, "We're done." God says He will not share His glory with another. America has been very protective of Israel for many years. The time may soon be for Israel to call upon the Lord for protection. I didn't have to say all that for my new friend. When I mentioned the Lord's return, and that the President was God's choice, she said she'd never thought about it that way. Hopefully, it took some of the pressure off.
I not only hinder the Spirit's work in the world by my name calling, I hinder His work in me. Have you ever met Christians who are at perfect peace and then learned a little of their history, only to find out they're suffering terrible things? Those kind of people humble me and I'm grateful for them. They're an example I want to follow. I pray consistently that hearts will be changed, especially mine. I do NOT want to be one of those Christians who unbelievers look at and say if that's what a Christian is like, count me out.
Friday, September 11, 2015
Curses!
Bob and I were out running errands this morning when a pickup pulled in front of me with a decal on the back window that is the subject of this morning's rant.
It reminded me of a friend who was staying overnight with friends. Idly, she picked up a magazine on the side of the bed and began to flip through it. It was a "Playboy." She immediately threw the magazine back onto the nightstand and later remarked she wished Scripture would stick in her head that way those pictures did.
I hear her. I could not take my eyes off that decal, try as I might. It was almost like it was magnetized. It was the F bomb, with the f and the k done in military rifles, turned to make sure you knew it was the F bomb cursing Obama.
I don't understand why people are blind to the fact that the word can be a curse or a blessing, but not both. Sex is a beautiful blessing to be shared between a husband and his wife. Used as an epithet, it's a curse on someone. The Bible says salt and fresh water cannot come from the same source. So which is the reference to sex for the users of F bombs? Actually, there are many, many expressions to express deprecatory statements referencing sex. For example, how can any wife feel like she is truly loved by her husband when he talks about screwing someone in business and then comes home and does the same thing to her?
I resent the crudeness our culture has adopted and yet, if I complain, I'm called all sorts of nasty names and the ugliness exacerbates. Those curses, thanks to my relationship with Jesus Christ, are like water off a duck's back. They don't stick because I'm sheltered under His wings, but it still is disturbing. It makes me long for the day when no man would curse in front of a woman, let alone say some of the things they say today with impunity. Sadly, today, many woman are as foul mouthed as men. It's no wonder they think none of us mind what they say and how they say it. Well, I do.
Not only is our audio becoming crude, the visuals have been in lock step with what people are forced to listen to, whether they want to or not. Another friend said she was driving in her city when a pickup in front of her had a very large picture of a couple obviously copulating on the tailgate. Her young son was with her and she called every authority in the city to see if it could be removed. No dice. There was nothing that could be done. Freedom of expression, you know.
To be honest, I'm also distressed at so many people who have blithely taken up the expression, "Oh, my God." Don't they know they are doing a whole lot more than distressing people who don't use that kind of language? Much, much worse is the fact that they are taking God's Name in vain and that curses them. I remember in the 50's when Catholics claimed it was a prayer. Unfortunately, the world has adopted something good and turned it into a curse on themselves.
Again, freedom of expression is allowed for people to curse and say all sorts of nasty things,especially to take God's Name in vain, but should I try to proclaim the goodness, love, and mercy of God in public, I could be arrested. Offending someone, you know.
Let me hasten to add that I have many friends and family members guilty of salty language. In fact, one friend said she hesitated to friend me on Facebook because she was afraid her salty language would offend me. True, I've just admitted I don't like it, but the love of Jesus for her and for my family members overrides any distress I have about hers or their language.
I'm just so sorry so many have been reduced to the helpless frustration and rage that comes out in that kind of language. My mother used to say foul language was s sign of a lack of intelligence. I've since come to the conclusion it's not necessarily that. It's a matter of negative feelings being expressed in the nastiest possible way.
Jesus said what comes out of the mouth is worse than what goes in. What goes in the mouth will eventually pass out of the body, but what comes out of the mouth is from the heart. Hearts darkened with rage, anxiety, helplessness and frustration. Hearts darkened with so much negativity will have an effect on physical health, emotional health, social health as well as spiritual and financial. Is it worth it?
My son once said it was the only way he could get people's attention in his business. My other son alluded to the same defense. But, in the day and time when foul language is the norm, even for small children, I would think that people might take notice more quickly if someone were to articulate their concerns in a new and improved manner.
Give it a try. It can't hurt and it might even help.
It reminded me of a friend who was staying overnight with friends. Idly, she picked up a magazine on the side of the bed and began to flip through it. It was a "Playboy." She immediately threw the magazine back onto the nightstand and later remarked she wished Scripture would stick in her head that way those pictures did.
I hear her. I could not take my eyes off that decal, try as I might. It was almost like it was magnetized. It was the F bomb, with the f and the k done in military rifles, turned to make sure you knew it was the F bomb cursing Obama.
I don't understand why people are blind to the fact that the word can be a curse or a blessing, but not both. Sex is a beautiful blessing to be shared between a husband and his wife. Used as an epithet, it's a curse on someone. The Bible says salt and fresh water cannot come from the same source. So which is the reference to sex for the users of F bombs? Actually, there are many, many expressions to express deprecatory statements referencing sex. For example, how can any wife feel like she is truly loved by her husband when he talks about screwing someone in business and then comes home and does the same thing to her?
I resent the crudeness our culture has adopted and yet, if I complain, I'm called all sorts of nasty names and the ugliness exacerbates. Those curses, thanks to my relationship with Jesus Christ, are like water off a duck's back. They don't stick because I'm sheltered under His wings, but it still is disturbing. It makes me long for the day when no man would curse in front of a woman, let alone say some of the things they say today with impunity. Sadly, today, many woman are as foul mouthed as men. It's no wonder they think none of us mind what they say and how they say it. Well, I do.
Not only is our audio becoming crude, the visuals have been in lock step with what people are forced to listen to, whether they want to or not. Another friend said she was driving in her city when a pickup in front of her had a very large picture of a couple obviously copulating on the tailgate. Her young son was with her and she called every authority in the city to see if it could be removed. No dice. There was nothing that could be done. Freedom of expression, you know.
To be honest, I'm also distressed at so many people who have blithely taken up the expression, "Oh, my God." Don't they know they are doing a whole lot more than distressing people who don't use that kind of language? Much, much worse is the fact that they are taking God's Name in vain and that curses them. I remember in the 50's when Catholics claimed it was a prayer. Unfortunately, the world has adopted something good and turned it into a curse on themselves.
Again, freedom of expression is allowed for people to curse and say all sorts of nasty things,especially to take God's Name in vain, but should I try to proclaim the goodness, love, and mercy of God in public, I could be arrested. Offending someone, you know.
Let me hasten to add that I have many friends and family members guilty of salty language. In fact, one friend said she hesitated to friend me on Facebook because she was afraid her salty language would offend me. True, I've just admitted I don't like it, but the love of Jesus for her and for my family members overrides any distress I have about hers or their language.
I'm just so sorry so many have been reduced to the helpless frustration and rage that comes out in that kind of language. My mother used to say foul language was s sign of a lack of intelligence. I've since come to the conclusion it's not necessarily that. It's a matter of negative feelings being expressed in the nastiest possible way.
Jesus said what comes out of the mouth is worse than what goes in. What goes in the mouth will eventually pass out of the body, but what comes out of the mouth is from the heart. Hearts darkened with rage, anxiety, helplessness and frustration. Hearts darkened with so much negativity will have an effect on physical health, emotional health, social health as well as spiritual and financial. Is it worth it?
My son once said it was the only way he could get people's attention in his business. My other son alluded to the same defense. But, in the day and time when foul language is the norm, even for small children, I would think that people might take notice more quickly if someone were to articulate their concerns in a new and improved manner.
Give it a try. It can't hurt and it might even help.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Sweet hour of prayer
Ever had times when praying seems like you're chanting like the heathen do? Like your prayer isn't going above the ceiling? If not, I have. Many times. I've read or heard of many prayer warriors who have had the same problem. Many have said prayer is work. I'm not exactly sure why. After all, it's talking with God, our Friend, Father, Creator, and Savior. If I can babble on for hours to a friend over the phone, why can't I come before the God of the Universe and talk to Him? Certainly, He'll be more understanding and He's promised to never leave or forsake us, so He definitely hears.
Perhaps it's a sense of awe that makes us feel awkward. He is so transcendent and no one likes to feel awkward. But, He's also close and personal. He often tells us in His Word to seek His Presence. Even that sometimes seems to fall flat.
One of the ways I've pulled my prayer time out of the confines of the room is to sing hymns as a way to praise Him. It worked this morning. How could it not? The old hymns are so rich with the majesty and glory of God. They speak of His great love for us, so how can we help but love Him?
Charles Wesley was a prolific hymn writer, as was A.B. Simpson, the founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, the denomination of my childhood and youth. Moving so much as an adult often took me places that had no Alliance church, so I would go to the closest denomination, doctrinally. The Baptists.
But, it's the Methodist, Charles Wesley, the 18th century hymn writer, who deeply touched my soul this morning and pulled me out of my "God bless..." and "God bless...." Frankly, I think the Lord gets weary of listening to our shopping list of God blesses.
Who can remain blase after singing, "Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to sing, my great Redeemer's praise, the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of His grace"? Or, Simpson's song, "Himself." "Once it was the blessing, now it is the Lord. Once it was the feeling, now it is His Word..."
The first time I heard, "Fill My Cup, Lord," I was living in Aurora, Colorado. My parents were visiting. Dad was so touched by the song, he wept. To this day, the words reverberate in my heart. "Like the woman at the well, I was seeking. For things that could not satisfy; and then I hear my Saviour speaking; 'Draw from My well that never shall run dry."
Perhaps one reason those songs resonate is that our world has become so chaotic and busy. So many things are clamoring for our attention. In Wesley's day, Simpson's day, and Blanchard's day, there were no computers, cell phones, televisions, video games, and all the other things progress has brought us. Unfortunately, they all too often drown out the still, small voice that is calling us to seek His Presence.
This morning's prayer time was sweet, precious. I'm so grateful for hymn writers of long ago. They stripped away all the "progress" and took me to throne of grace. There are hundreds of songs in the hymnbooks. Many, I know, some I don't, but all of them will lift my heart and my thoughts to the One Who cares for me like no one else. There's no better way to start the day.
Perhaps it's a sense of awe that makes us feel awkward. He is so transcendent and no one likes to feel awkward. But, He's also close and personal. He often tells us in His Word to seek His Presence. Even that sometimes seems to fall flat.
One of the ways I've pulled my prayer time out of the confines of the room is to sing hymns as a way to praise Him. It worked this morning. How could it not? The old hymns are so rich with the majesty and glory of God. They speak of His great love for us, so how can we help but love Him?
Charles Wesley was a prolific hymn writer, as was A.B. Simpson, the founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, the denomination of my childhood and youth. Moving so much as an adult often took me places that had no Alliance church, so I would go to the closest denomination, doctrinally. The Baptists.
But, it's the Methodist, Charles Wesley, the 18th century hymn writer, who deeply touched my soul this morning and pulled me out of my "God bless..." and "God bless...." Frankly, I think the Lord gets weary of listening to our shopping list of God blesses.
Who can remain blase after singing, "Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to sing, my great Redeemer's praise, the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of His grace"? Or, Simpson's song, "Himself." "Once it was the blessing, now it is the Lord. Once it was the feeling, now it is His Word..."
The first time I heard, "Fill My Cup, Lord," I was living in Aurora, Colorado. My parents were visiting. Dad was so touched by the song, he wept. To this day, the words reverberate in my heart. "Like the woman at the well, I was seeking. For things that could not satisfy; and then I hear my Saviour speaking; 'Draw from My well that never shall run dry."
Perhaps one reason those songs resonate is that our world has become so chaotic and busy. So many things are clamoring for our attention. In Wesley's day, Simpson's day, and Blanchard's day, there were no computers, cell phones, televisions, video games, and all the other things progress has brought us. Unfortunately, they all too often drown out the still, small voice that is calling us to seek His Presence.
This morning's prayer time was sweet, precious. I'm so grateful for hymn writers of long ago. They stripped away all the "progress" and took me to throne of grace. There are hundreds of songs in the hymnbooks. Many, I know, some I don't, but all of them will lift my heart and my thoughts to the One Who cares for me like no one else. There's no better way to start the day.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
History lesson
History has always interested me, but I have to say I'm glad I only had to know American history as a student. Right now, I'm doing a little reading about English history and it's not nearly so easy. In the first place, it goes back much longer than America. For another thing, so many of the royals were named "George," "Richard," "Henry," or "Edward." The women were named "Elizabeth," "Mary," "Margaret," or "Anne." It makes it difficult to remember who belongs to which house and what year they reigned.
My interest was piqued recently when my son told me about our family history. Supposedly, the Pollock clan was very powerful, very wealthy, and had a great deal of land. Until they backed the wrong queen and lost everything, being forced to become a subset of another clan. My brother immediately assumed the queens were Elizabeth and Mary, Queen of Scots, but I had been reading about the White Queen of the York line and the Red Queen of the Lancaster line. Thought I'd do a little more digging.
I'm not interested in genealogy, I'm interested in history. In the first place, if I'm related to royalty, what happened? In the second place, I have the feeling we're all related to royalty. In those days, royalty were about the only ones who could survive. Royalty could leave the dirty, disease ridden cities in the summer. The poor and the shopkeepers couldn't. Royalty could afford to eat well and get someone else to do the dirty work. The poor and the workers were either starved to death, worked to death, taxed to death, or forced to fight wars with pitchforks and hoes against trained warriors who had armor, lances, arrows, and horses. Then, too, in some countries, young girls were sacrificed to the gods. In my opinion, having royal blood is no big deal.
But, oh, the intrigue, the mayhem, the murder! Who needs mystery movies and novels when there's history? Truth is stranger than fiction, as the saying goes. It does boggle the mind keeping all the players in their proper place in history. And, there's so many of them. The White Queen, Elizabeth Woodville, was a commoner and hated. She is accused or enticing the king by witchcraft. For a long time, I thought Mary Stanley was her enemy because Mary Stanley has a son named Henry Tudor. How did that happen? She says she was married twice and her first husband was Stafford (I think). Have to look it up.
Now, the Kingmaker's Daughter, Ann Neville and her sister-in-law eventually becomes queen. But, how does the feud go from the Lancaster's and the York's to the Tudor's? The Tudor's are a part of the Lancaster line and to tell you the truth, I don't know how the Lancaster and the York lines got started in the first place. Talk about tangled webs.
However, studying history and realizing that America still has freedoms the English never dreamed of, especially in those days, is a good reason to just read about it and not have to live it. If you figure it out, let me know.
My interest was piqued recently when my son told me about our family history. Supposedly, the Pollock clan was very powerful, very wealthy, and had a great deal of land. Until they backed the wrong queen and lost everything, being forced to become a subset of another clan. My brother immediately assumed the queens were Elizabeth and Mary, Queen of Scots, but I had been reading about the White Queen of the York line and the Red Queen of the Lancaster line. Thought I'd do a little more digging.
I'm not interested in genealogy, I'm interested in history. In the first place, if I'm related to royalty, what happened? In the second place, I have the feeling we're all related to royalty. In those days, royalty were about the only ones who could survive. Royalty could leave the dirty, disease ridden cities in the summer. The poor and the shopkeepers couldn't. Royalty could afford to eat well and get someone else to do the dirty work. The poor and the workers were either starved to death, worked to death, taxed to death, or forced to fight wars with pitchforks and hoes against trained warriors who had armor, lances, arrows, and horses. Then, too, in some countries, young girls were sacrificed to the gods. In my opinion, having royal blood is no big deal.
But, oh, the intrigue, the mayhem, the murder! Who needs mystery movies and novels when there's history? Truth is stranger than fiction, as the saying goes. It does boggle the mind keeping all the players in their proper place in history. And, there's so many of them. The White Queen, Elizabeth Woodville, was a commoner and hated. She is accused or enticing the king by witchcraft. For a long time, I thought Mary Stanley was her enemy because Mary Stanley has a son named Henry Tudor. How did that happen? She says she was married twice and her first husband was Stafford (I think). Have to look it up.
Now, the Kingmaker's Daughter, Ann Neville and her sister-in-law eventually becomes queen. But, how does the feud go from the Lancaster's and the York's to the Tudor's? The Tudor's are a part of the Lancaster line and to tell you the truth, I don't know how the Lancaster and the York lines got started in the first place. Talk about tangled webs.
However, studying history and realizing that America still has freedoms the English never dreamed of, especially in those days, is a good reason to just read about it and not have to live it. If you figure it out, let me know.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Hypocrite or Confused?
I've been pondering the Kim Davis news situation the past few days and I have to admit I'm not sure what the best answer is. I am a firm believer in upholding the law, but the Bible says if the law goes against God's law, we are to disobey it. So what's right?
It reminds me of the time we lived in a condo association for over ten years. If you were related to, or a good friend of a board member, you could pretty much do as you pleased. The documents did not allow tile floors on the second floor, in spite of how well they were sound proofed. The buildings weren't really designed to hold all that weight. I know when we tiled our first floor unit-which was legal-the unit creaked and groaned all night. At a party I was attending, some of the owners of upstairs units were discussing the possibility of tiling their floors. When I said it was against regs, there were several people there who were very angry that I would suggest such a thing. However, another attendee quietly said they had asked permission and were denied. Why? It would be my guess that they lived over a board member and they weren't on good terms. Another family tiled their place and a new board forced them to remove it because it was against regs. One got away with it, one was forced to correct it, and one was denied the privilege. Hypocrisy.
Periodically, I would speak up at a board meeting and ask that either regs be upheld or removed.. Didn't matter which, just do one or the other. I had no clout and was ignored.
I say all that to say it's the same with our laws. I'm frustrated that the President has violated many, many laws with impunity. Our borders have people pouring in day after day, bringing drugs, arms, and people. We have sanctuary cities that allow criminals to stay in this country in spite of the fact they broken more than just the law of how they entered our borders. The Bible says if you've broken one law, you've broken them all.
Congress has done much the same thing and are planning to do more. The Supreme Court, the supposed final say upholding the law of the land has violated the laws themselves, overriding what is supposed to be the right of the states. Hypocrisy.
Getting angry and spewing invective and vitriol adds to the chaos rather than solving anything. I've been accused of being Sarah Palin's little sister, although I'm probably old enough to be her mother, or aunt at the very least. All because I said something that caused someone else to take offense. Do some people no longer have the right to disagree? If so, who decided which people would be oppressed because they have a differing opinion? Sarah Palin does seem to be a lightening rod and because I often draw the wrath of those who disagree with me, she and I may be related somewhere along the line after all. However, I have no desire to be a lightening rod. I would prefer to have a reasonable dialogue, each discussing our point of view respectfully. If I think that's going to happen, I'm neither hypocritical or confused. I'm dreaming.
After I said something on Facebook last Saturday about Kim Davis, I'm sure I'm going to draw fire from some of the 30 or so posts I've been dreading looking at. Later, I watched "McClintock." Now, what in the world does an old John Wayne movie have to do with anything?
Just this. John Wayne was a staunch conservative politically. He was a law abiding man. He was also a huge help to the military during Viet Nam. We had a neighbor who said that other movie stars would travel to Nam, but refuse to get out of the safety of the plane any where close to the fighting. Not John Wayne. He made sure he got in harm's way and have a drink with the men fighting for their country.
His personality was so big, he overshadowed all the characters of his movies. Don't get me wrong. I love watching John Wayne to this day. I have a strong feeling he was just the same in real life as reel life. And, I admired him for it. Each of his movies had him going against the status quo and you went right along with him. He was doing the right thing in his law-breaking. And, that's where the hypocrisy comes in. If John Wayne was right in defying the law, why aren't those who defy the law today? Perhaps it has to do with why the law is being defied. He always stood up for the oppressed. I'm sure those who defy the law today believe they're being oppressed. Are they? Confusing. And is it hypocritical to think it's OK for some people to break the law, but not others? I'll have to think about this some more. And be extremely careful about what I say on my Facebook posts.
Going back to Kim Davis, I have to say I don't have any answers. Thank God I'm a little nobody in a backwater town. It doesn't matter what I think. I'm not putting myself down. I'm also a child of God and that makes me a princess. What others think of me is of no consequence. What I think of myself is either giving glory to God or insulting Him. I choose to glorify Him by being thankful He's made me His child-a princess in His sight.
If I had been Kim Davis, I would have resigned. That would have enabled her to uphold her religious convictions without imposing her beliefs on anyone else. I've done it before and I'd do it again. The last time I resigned, my former boss and her husband begged me to apply for unemployment. Reluctantly, I did so. The woman who called me about my claim happened to have two jobs. She was also the pastor of a black church. I so admire black women. They are such hard workers. Anyway, she asked me why I didn't wait to be fired if I thought that was the plan of the board. That way, there'd be no question about my claim. "Because it would weaken my testimony," was my response. I wanted the board to face the fact they'd done wrong and I could not stand by and watch their behavior. No job is worth more than being obedient to the Lord. The woman who called made me promise I would refile when I got the rejection letter in the mail, assuring me I would receive unemployment, in spite of the fact I had resigned. I couldn't do it. I knew the rules going in. I wrote her a letter of apology, thanking her profusely for her support, but I'm a rule follower. If I can't follow the rules, I resign. I believe that's what God had me do.
That's not to say Kim Davis is wrong in her stand. That's where the confusing part comes in. She is doing what she believes God is calling her to do and sometimes, the very thing we think is wrong, God uses to turn into good. Perhaps that's what is going on now. Whether it's hypocritical, confusing, right or wrong, it's a good thing it's all in God's hands. He knows the answers. I sure don't. (And, neither does anyone else who's sticking their two cents in.)
It reminds me of the time we lived in a condo association for over ten years. If you were related to, or a good friend of a board member, you could pretty much do as you pleased. The documents did not allow tile floors on the second floor, in spite of how well they were sound proofed. The buildings weren't really designed to hold all that weight. I know when we tiled our first floor unit-which was legal-the unit creaked and groaned all night. At a party I was attending, some of the owners of upstairs units were discussing the possibility of tiling their floors. When I said it was against regs, there were several people there who were very angry that I would suggest such a thing. However, another attendee quietly said they had asked permission and were denied. Why? It would be my guess that they lived over a board member and they weren't on good terms. Another family tiled their place and a new board forced them to remove it because it was against regs. One got away with it, one was forced to correct it, and one was denied the privilege. Hypocrisy.
Periodically, I would speak up at a board meeting and ask that either regs be upheld or removed.. Didn't matter which, just do one or the other. I had no clout and was ignored.
I say all that to say it's the same with our laws. I'm frustrated that the President has violated many, many laws with impunity. Our borders have people pouring in day after day, bringing drugs, arms, and people. We have sanctuary cities that allow criminals to stay in this country in spite of the fact they broken more than just the law of how they entered our borders. The Bible says if you've broken one law, you've broken them all.
Congress has done much the same thing and are planning to do more. The Supreme Court, the supposed final say upholding the law of the land has violated the laws themselves, overriding what is supposed to be the right of the states. Hypocrisy.
Getting angry and spewing invective and vitriol adds to the chaos rather than solving anything. I've been accused of being Sarah Palin's little sister, although I'm probably old enough to be her mother, or aunt at the very least. All because I said something that caused someone else to take offense. Do some people no longer have the right to disagree? If so, who decided which people would be oppressed because they have a differing opinion? Sarah Palin does seem to be a lightening rod and because I often draw the wrath of those who disagree with me, she and I may be related somewhere along the line after all. However, I have no desire to be a lightening rod. I would prefer to have a reasonable dialogue, each discussing our point of view respectfully. If I think that's going to happen, I'm neither hypocritical or confused. I'm dreaming.
After I said something on Facebook last Saturday about Kim Davis, I'm sure I'm going to draw fire from some of the 30 or so posts I've been dreading looking at. Later, I watched "McClintock." Now, what in the world does an old John Wayne movie have to do with anything?
Just this. John Wayne was a staunch conservative politically. He was a law abiding man. He was also a huge help to the military during Viet Nam. We had a neighbor who said that other movie stars would travel to Nam, but refuse to get out of the safety of the plane any where close to the fighting. Not John Wayne. He made sure he got in harm's way and have a drink with the men fighting for their country.
His personality was so big, he overshadowed all the characters of his movies. Don't get me wrong. I love watching John Wayne to this day. I have a strong feeling he was just the same in real life as reel life. And, I admired him for it. Each of his movies had him going against the status quo and you went right along with him. He was doing the right thing in his law-breaking. And, that's where the hypocrisy comes in. If John Wayne was right in defying the law, why aren't those who defy the law today? Perhaps it has to do with why the law is being defied. He always stood up for the oppressed. I'm sure those who defy the law today believe they're being oppressed. Are they? Confusing. And is it hypocritical to think it's OK for some people to break the law, but not others? I'll have to think about this some more. And be extremely careful about what I say on my Facebook posts.
Going back to Kim Davis, I have to say I don't have any answers. Thank God I'm a little nobody in a backwater town. It doesn't matter what I think. I'm not putting myself down. I'm also a child of God and that makes me a princess. What others think of me is of no consequence. What I think of myself is either giving glory to God or insulting Him. I choose to glorify Him by being thankful He's made me His child-a princess in His sight.
If I had been Kim Davis, I would have resigned. That would have enabled her to uphold her religious convictions without imposing her beliefs on anyone else. I've done it before and I'd do it again. The last time I resigned, my former boss and her husband begged me to apply for unemployment. Reluctantly, I did so. The woman who called me about my claim happened to have two jobs. She was also the pastor of a black church. I so admire black women. They are such hard workers. Anyway, she asked me why I didn't wait to be fired if I thought that was the plan of the board. That way, there'd be no question about my claim. "Because it would weaken my testimony," was my response. I wanted the board to face the fact they'd done wrong and I could not stand by and watch their behavior. No job is worth more than being obedient to the Lord. The woman who called made me promise I would refile when I got the rejection letter in the mail, assuring me I would receive unemployment, in spite of the fact I had resigned. I couldn't do it. I knew the rules going in. I wrote her a letter of apology, thanking her profusely for her support, but I'm a rule follower. If I can't follow the rules, I resign. I believe that's what God had me do.
That's not to say Kim Davis is wrong in her stand. That's where the confusing part comes in. She is doing what she believes God is calling her to do and sometimes, the very thing we think is wrong, God uses to turn into good. Perhaps that's what is going on now. Whether it's hypocritical, confusing, right or wrong, it's a good thing it's all in God's hands. He knows the answers. I sure don't. (And, neither does anyone else who's sticking their two cents in.)
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Thanks, Ted Cruz
Listened to Sheriff Clarke on Hannity's radio broadcast today. He is replacing Hannity at least for today. He was interviewing Ted Cruz and I have to say I was deeply impressed. To give you an idea of how much, after the first debate, I had him listed as number seven! I have to say he's moved up considerably on my list.
Why? The first thing I heard him say was that Washington insiders have a spirit of fear. Right straight out of Scripture. He is not ashamed of the Lord and I admire that. He and Sheriff Clarke then had a long conversation about the tragic targeting of our policemen. The EMTs were also included and it took me back many years when our son was an EMT.
There had been an accident on a 2 lane, winding mountain road in Missouri. Dan immediately stopped and checked on the condition of those involved in the accident. When the EMT's arrived, Dan then directed traffic. It was infuriating to watch people who thought they were too important to allow an off duty EMT to slow them down. (He pinned his badge to his sleeve.) I couldn't believe it, but some people are that ignorant and arrogant. And stupid. Did that idiot in the late model Cadillac really want my great big son, Dan, to use his night stick and put a huge dent in his pretty, white car? Dan's size should have been warning enough. And, yes, that's what the police taught him to do when he was directing traffic. When Dan returned to the car after all officers and EMT's had arrived and took over the situation, I remarked about some people's behavior. Dan remarked that many EMT's had been injured in the line of duty and the courts would not honor their service.
Finally, Sheriff Clarke asked Senator Cruz why he hadn't attacked Donald Trump. He had nothing but positive things to say about his opponent. He cited the excitement Trump has brought to the election process and the Republican Party. Cruz went on to say his own campaign has benefited from Trump's campaign.
In fact, he's invited Trump to join him in Washington this weekend to fight the Iran deal. He commented that Trump would bring the media and that would inform still more people of the danger this country is facing because of this deal. He mentioned he was the one who'd led the fight to keep the man from replacing Holder who'd once asked to defend a cop killer. I remembered the situation, but was unaware it was Cruz who'd led the fight. My hat's off to him. It is one of the few times Obama was shut down. Do it again Senator Cruz!
There are so many really good candidates running for the Presidency this time around and, quite frankly, I don't know who to vote for. Thankfully, it's still more than a year away and that leaves time to learn about the candidates. I'm even more grateful that God will choose our leader for His glory and purpose.
I cannot sign off without saying how much I appreciate Sheriff Clarke. And upright, noble, honorable man. We need more like him, too. Thank You, Lord for him and others like him. Thank you, too, for Senator Ted Cruz.
Why? The first thing I heard him say was that Washington insiders have a spirit of fear. Right straight out of Scripture. He is not ashamed of the Lord and I admire that. He and Sheriff Clarke then had a long conversation about the tragic targeting of our policemen. The EMTs were also included and it took me back many years when our son was an EMT.
There had been an accident on a 2 lane, winding mountain road in Missouri. Dan immediately stopped and checked on the condition of those involved in the accident. When the EMT's arrived, Dan then directed traffic. It was infuriating to watch people who thought they were too important to allow an off duty EMT to slow them down. (He pinned his badge to his sleeve.) I couldn't believe it, but some people are that ignorant and arrogant. And stupid. Did that idiot in the late model Cadillac really want my great big son, Dan, to use his night stick and put a huge dent in his pretty, white car? Dan's size should have been warning enough. And, yes, that's what the police taught him to do when he was directing traffic. When Dan returned to the car after all officers and EMT's had arrived and took over the situation, I remarked about some people's behavior. Dan remarked that many EMT's had been injured in the line of duty and the courts would not honor their service.
Finally, Sheriff Clarke asked Senator Cruz why he hadn't attacked Donald Trump. He had nothing but positive things to say about his opponent. He cited the excitement Trump has brought to the election process and the Republican Party. Cruz went on to say his own campaign has benefited from Trump's campaign.
In fact, he's invited Trump to join him in Washington this weekend to fight the Iran deal. He commented that Trump would bring the media and that would inform still more people of the danger this country is facing because of this deal. He mentioned he was the one who'd led the fight to keep the man from replacing Holder who'd once asked to defend a cop killer. I remembered the situation, but was unaware it was Cruz who'd led the fight. My hat's off to him. It is one of the few times Obama was shut down. Do it again Senator Cruz!
There are so many really good candidates running for the Presidency this time around and, quite frankly, I don't know who to vote for. Thankfully, it's still more than a year away and that leaves time to learn about the candidates. I'm even more grateful that God will choose our leader for His glory and purpose.
I cannot sign off without saying how much I appreciate Sheriff Clarke. And upright, noble, honorable man. We need more like him, too. Thank You, Lord for him and others like him. Thank you, too, for Senator Ted Cruz.
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