James 3:9-10 says, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My bothers, this should not be."
It's an election year and the praises and curses are flowing out of the same mouths. Sometimes from me. I repent. When someone reviles the candidate I support, I want and do go on the defensive. That's an insult to God and it shows a lack of faith on my part. We are each and every one created in God's image. When we insult one of His creatures, we insult Him. When we go on the defensive, it shows a lack of faith that His plan is superior to ours and He knows what He's doing.
I may not like what He's doing. There are very few vying for the most powerful position in the world that I think is worthy of my vote. but snide, snarky satirical "jokes" about the opposition will not change anyone's vote and it only increases the divisiveness already at a volatile stage in our country. Such comments also diminishes my integrity and solidifies the opposition's determination.
If I disagree with someone's policy, I have every right to state that. But, I do not have the right to simply pontificate my opinions or to denigrate God's creation. If someone has a character quality unfitting for office, I have the right to point that out - sans editorializing. God's Word plainly points out that I must not use my tongue for good and evil.
Unfortunately, the tongue is impossible to tame. God's Word says that, too. What to do? What to do? Facebook has been a curse and a blessing at this time. So many post Scriptures and positive sayings every day. They're an encouragement. Then, there are those who post vile lies and I lose when I stoop to responding. I try to scroll past certain names I know are posting opinions that are false. If I respond in kind, I have no right to complain about what they're doing. I have stooped to their level.
To those who post Scripture, thanks for the good example. I'm doing the same thing about every day, in the hopes that I will encourage others. To those who are posting political vitriol, I will pray for you. It's been said we lash out when we're afraid. I admit that's true of myself and will, therefore pray for the both of us.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Monday, February 22, 2016
Holy is the Lord
This morning's Bible reading in Numbers reminded me again that God is holy. A friend once said we must be careful not to become legalistic. Is that worse than becoming casual and careless about the holiness of God?
I'm referring to the verses that warned Israelites not to touch holy things. One man touched the ark and paid the ultimate price. I'm sometimes concerned that we Christians in America don't really understand what holy means. I'm concerned that we pay lip service to the word and excuse ourselves for our behavior, our language, our emotions, our perspectives, and our motives.
Ravi Zacharias has spent the the past two messages talking about the meaning of worship and I must admit, I was convicted by his words. And I was convicted by the word holy this morning as I read. I do not wish to presume on God's grace and mercy, but at the same time I want to depend on Him for His grace and mercy. Don't ask me to explain that. I can't, except to say maybe one is my demand upon God and the other is the grateful receipt of what He has so freely offered me.
I cringe when people say they believe in the God of second chances-and blithely continue to change nothing of their lifestyle. That's presuming on God's grace and mercy. However, when I sin, I must depend on God's grace and mercy to forgive me when I ask because He said He would, not because I deserve it, but because He is God and He said He would.
God calls us to be holy as He is holy and because He is holy. A tall order, an impossible one in the flesh. Thank God for the sacrifice He made on our behalf on the cross and thank God for the Comforter He sent when Jesus ascended into heaven.
Keep me faithful, Lord I pray. Teach me the true meaning of holy and worship. You are worthy of that and more.
I'm referring to the verses that warned Israelites not to touch holy things. One man touched the ark and paid the ultimate price. I'm sometimes concerned that we Christians in America don't really understand what holy means. I'm concerned that we pay lip service to the word and excuse ourselves for our behavior, our language, our emotions, our perspectives, and our motives.
Ravi Zacharias has spent the the past two messages talking about the meaning of worship and I must admit, I was convicted by his words. And I was convicted by the word holy this morning as I read. I do not wish to presume on God's grace and mercy, but at the same time I want to depend on Him for His grace and mercy. Don't ask me to explain that. I can't, except to say maybe one is my demand upon God and the other is the grateful receipt of what He has so freely offered me.
I cringe when people say they believe in the God of second chances-and blithely continue to change nothing of their lifestyle. That's presuming on God's grace and mercy. However, when I sin, I must depend on God's grace and mercy to forgive me when I ask because He said He would, not because I deserve it, but because He is God and He said He would.
God calls us to be holy as He is holy and because He is holy. A tall order, an impossible one in the flesh. Thank God for the sacrifice He made on our behalf on the cross and thank God for the Comforter He sent when Jesus ascended into heaven.
Keep me faithful, Lord I pray. Teach me the true meaning of holy and worship. You are worthy of that and more.
Sunday, February 21, 2016
How come?
The news last night said polls were taken regarding the South Carolina primary. One of the questions asked was who's campaign was the nastiest? Donald Trump won even more votes there than he won in the election. How come?
Why would anyone want to vote for someone they know plays dirty? It makes no sense to me at all. In fact, I'm kind of reminded how gangs seem to form. One guy is the bully and others join him, expecting him to protect them, when in fact, he uses them to protect himself. And when the gang gets in trouble, guess who goes to jail? Never the bully. It's those who want his protection. Is that where the expression rolling over comes from?
David Jeremiah said something in his message this morning that I have been striving to do. We need to be grateful for the privilege of living in this day and time. God has a purpose for our being here, no matter how terrible we think the world is becoming.
Believers in Jesus know that the world is going to get worse. If it happens now, what are we here for? Much has been written about lighting one candle is better than cursing the darkness. If we, as believers, would let the light of Jesus shine through us instead of complaining about how corrupt politicians are, perhaps the Lord would change even more hearts that He's doing at the moment.
I'm reminded of the passage that tells of Jesus being unable to perform miracles because of the people's unbelief. Are we truly trusting the Lord or are we paying lip service to Him? Ravi Zacharias has done to great messages on this very thing, using Malachi 1. What it means to worship. I confess, he gave me much food for thought and there are areas in my life that need to change. How come?
More than anything, I want His will to be done in my life, even if He's chosen for me to live in a time that hates Him, ignores me, and thinks God's will is being done. Supposedly, there were Germans who thought Hitler was the return of Christ. There are people in America today who worship our political leaders. I don't judge them, but I do feel sorry for them and pray for them. I won't answer for anyone's life but my own and I want to be very sure my life exhibits Christ-likeness whoever wins the election.
Why would anyone want to vote for someone they know plays dirty? It makes no sense to me at all. In fact, I'm kind of reminded how gangs seem to form. One guy is the bully and others join him, expecting him to protect them, when in fact, he uses them to protect himself. And when the gang gets in trouble, guess who goes to jail? Never the bully. It's those who want his protection. Is that where the expression rolling over comes from?
David Jeremiah said something in his message this morning that I have been striving to do. We need to be grateful for the privilege of living in this day and time. God has a purpose for our being here, no matter how terrible we think the world is becoming.
Believers in Jesus know that the world is going to get worse. If it happens now, what are we here for? Much has been written about lighting one candle is better than cursing the darkness. If we, as believers, would let the light of Jesus shine through us instead of complaining about how corrupt politicians are, perhaps the Lord would change even more hearts that He's doing at the moment.
I'm reminded of the passage that tells of Jesus being unable to perform miracles because of the people's unbelief. Are we truly trusting the Lord or are we paying lip service to Him? Ravi Zacharias has done to great messages on this very thing, using Malachi 1. What it means to worship. I confess, he gave me much food for thought and there are areas in my life that need to change. How come?
More than anything, I want His will to be done in my life, even if He's chosen for me to live in a time that hates Him, ignores me, and thinks God's will is being done. Supposedly, there were Germans who thought Hitler was the return of Christ. There are people in America today who worship our political leaders. I don't judge them, but I do feel sorry for them and pray for them. I won't answer for anyone's life but my own and I want to be very sure my life exhibits Christ-likeness whoever wins the election.
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Farewell
The official farewell to Antonin Scalia was done today with great dignity, pomp, and ceremony. Kudos to FNC for televising the entire two hours. I'm sorry I only caught the second hour, but what I saw was impressive. It would have been even better if I could have watched it with a Catholic friend.
That way, I could have had lots of my questions answered. For example, there were many different ceremonial robes. I would liked to learn the significance of each one and what rank each carried. What did the embroidery stand for on the coffin and the priest's robe? What did each of the colors stand for? A former nun once told me that so much of the colors and ceremony were designed to help people understand what they believed because in the Dark Ages, very few could read. Hence, the visuals.
One fellow seemed to know and direct the others throughout the service. He could be seen whispering a few words into someone's ear or turning the page as Scalia's son read the message. It was very touching that Scalia's son could do his dad's funeral so meaningfully, reserving his emotions for a private time and place.
I appreciated the solemnity of the proceedings because it reminded me this nation has lost a great man. It makes me very sad to think about it and gave the service an even deeper meaning. I also appreciated all of the service I heard was a message of worship of the Lord rather than eulogizing the man. That may have been done in the first hour, but all too often, funerals and eulogies make the person greater than they actually were in life. Not so this time. This was a time of worshipping the God in whom Antonin Scalia placed his faith. It was as it should be. Funerals are to be a type of worship and this service certainly a good example of that.
Farewell, Antonin Scalia. We who lived in the world you helped to shape are in your debt and are praying the one who replaces you will follow in your foot steps.
That way, I could have had lots of my questions answered. For example, there were many different ceremonial robes. I would liked to learn the significance of each one and what rank each carried. What did the embroidery stand for on the coffin and the priest's robe? What did each of the colors stand for? A former nun once told me that so much of the colors and ceremony were designed to help people understand what they believed because in the Dark Ages, very few could read. Hence, the visuals.
One fellow seemed to know and direct the others throughout the service. He could be seen whispering a few words into someone's ear or turning the page as Scalia's son read the message. It was very touching that Scalia's son could do his dad's funeral so meaningfully, reserving his emotions for a private time and place.
I appreciated the solemnity of the proceedings because it reminded me this nation has lost a great man. It makes me very sad to think about it and gave the service an even deeper meaning. I also appreciated all of the service I heard was a message of worship of the Lord rather than eulogizing the man. That may have been done in the first hour, but all too often, funerals and eulogies make the person greater than they actually were in life. Not so this time. This was a time of worshipping the God in whom Antonin Scalia placed his faith. It was as it should be. Funerals are to be a type of worship and this service certainly a good example of that.
Farewell, Antonin Scalia. We who lived in the world you helped to shape are in your debt and are praying the one who replaces you will follow in your foot steps.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Not so bad
I've come to the conclusion getting old is not so bad. Oh sure, the aches, pains, sags, and wrinkles are unappealing, but they're not deadly. I've often said getting old beats the alternative. For the Christian, that's not true, but we always have the feeling there's something more we could have done or there's something better coming, so facing death can be difficult.
However, if we didn't age, who'd want to die? Even if we know we're going to be far better off, there's still that pull to keep going, aches, pains, sags, wrinkles and everything else that goes with it.
Many times, the elderly - that's word that got me to thinking along these lines - feel left behind. Life is moving with breathtaking swiftness, to be sure and keeping up gets increasingly difficult for we who have more water under the bridge than most.
A few days ago, I finally joined the 21st century in yet another way. Not kicking and screaming nearly as much as with the computer, but it became apparent a smart phone is a necessity for selling my books. I have yet to figure out how to use it, but I'm determined and I'm learning. I bought it Tuesday and had to go back on Wednesday to get it hooked up to the bluetooth in the car.
While going through to long process of choosing and purchasing the phone, I met three young men and had some wonderful conversations with them. It turns out one of them will vote for Trump, one will vote for Sanders, and the third is, like me, still undecided. They laughed and joked about their differences, including me in their banter. The thing I really liked is that they didn't dismiss me as a crochety old lady who didn't know what she was talking about. Each listened respectfully as different opinions were given. I was firm in some of my comments. The one who is voting for Sanders said he just wants big corporations to pay their fair share. When I asked about the company he works for he kind of shrugged it off. I strongly implied that was cowardice and hypocrisy. He got my message, but was not offended. Amazing. If I'd have said those things as a young woman or even a middle aged one, he might not have been as accepting.
When I got home, I realized some things were left undone. I called to ask about the things we had discussed, but had not completed. I called three times, letting the phone ring 15 times each. No answer. I went back the next day. While there, I gave them some business advice, telling them the phone should be answered by the third ring. It's just good business. They explained they only have one line and no call waiting, excusing themselves. I agreed.
One of the young men went to the car to install the phone and called back to the store to insure it had properly installed. The first thing the young man who answered said, "I picked up in two rings!" Again, they got the message loud and clear. Again, that wouldn't have happened if I were 20, 30, or even 40 years younger. Getting old isn't so bad.
I remember my children sitting at their grandparents feet, listening in open mouthed awe to stories of what it was like to live in their day. Now, it's beginning to happen me. One young man was in shock when I said I'd never even held a smart phone until I bought one the day before. Kids these days don't know what it's like to be without smart phones, laptops, tablets, X-box and a whole lot of other things we never had.
It doesn't really make me feel old to not have ha those things or not to need them. It makes me feel like a pioneer. It makes me feel rugged, strong, and forget the aches, pains, sags, and wrinkles. Like my mother, who used to say she was not a senior citizen or elderly, she was old. Nothing wrong with that. We've survived a lot and I for one am not ashamed to call myself old. Being old is not so bad.
However, if we didn't age, who'd want to die? Even if we know we're going to be far better off, there's still that pull to keep going, aches, pains, sags, wrinkles and everything else that goes with it.
Many times, the elderly - that's word that got me to thinking along these lines - feel left behind. Life is moving with breathtaking swiftness, to be sure and keeping up gets increasingly difficult for we who have more water under the bridge than most.
A few days ago, I finally joined the 21st century in yet another way. Not kicking and screaming nearly as much as with the computer, but it became apparent a smart phone is a necessity for selling my books. I have yet to figure out how to use it, but I'm determined and I'm learning. I bought it Tuesday and had to go back on Wednesday to get it hooked up to the bluetooth in the car.
While going through to long process of choosing and purchasing the phone, I met three young men and had some wonderful conversations with them. It turns out one of them will vote for Trump, one will vote for Sanders, and the third is, like me, still undecided. They laughed and joked about their differences, including me in their banter. The thing I really liked is that they didn't dismiss me as a crochety old lady who didn't know what she was talking about. Each listened respectfully as different opinions were given. I was firm in some of my comments. The one who is voting for Sanders said he just wants big corporations to pay their fair share. When I asked about the company he works for he kind of shrugged it off. I strongly implied that was cowardice and hypocrisy. He got my message, but was not offended. Amazing. If I'd have said those things as a young woman or even a middle aged one, he might not have been as accepting.
When I got home, I realized some things were left undone. I called to ask about the things we had discussed, but had not completed. I called three times, letting the phone ring 15 times each. No answer. I went back the next day. While there, I gave them some business advice, telling them the phone should be answered by the third ring. It's just good business. They explained they only have one line and no call waiting, excusing themselves. I agreed.
One of the young men went to the car to install the phone and called back to the store to insure it had properly installed. The first thing the young man who answered said, "I picked up in two rings!" Again, they got the message loud and clear. Again, that wouldn't have happened if I were 20, 30, or even 40 years younger. Getting old isn't so bad.
I remember my children sitting at their grandparents feet, listening in open mouthed awe to stories of what it was like to live in their day. Now, it's beginning to happen me. One young man was in shock when I said I'd never even held a smart phone until I bought one the day before. Kids these days don't know what it's like to be without smart phones, laptops, tablets, X-box and a whole lot of other things we never had.
It doesn't really make me feel old to not have ha those things or not to need them. It makes me feel like a pioneer. It makes me feel rugged, strong, and forget the aches, pains, sags, and wrinkles. Like my mother, who used to say she was not a senior citizen or elderly, she was old. Nothing wrong with that. We've survived a lot and I for one am not ashamed to call myself old. Being old is not so bad.
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Hard on myself?
People who know me best and love me most say I'm too hard on myself. Possibly, but I don't want to go through life casually assuming I've got it all together when I don't. I've always said if you want to be a good liar, the first person you have to convince is yourself. The rest comes easy. When it comes to my relationships, especially my relationship with the Lord, I do not want to be blind to the things I do, say, think, or believe that grieves Him. I especially do not want to go blithely through life believing I am being the Christian God wants me to be. I don't want to live in a house of cards.
Yes, I know there are many Scriptures to reassure me of His love for me, in spite of my faults. Philippians 1:6 says I can be confident that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
I am well aware of the fact that I will not be as much like Him as I can be until I see Him. I John 3:2 says that when He appears, we shall be like Him. I know that. I also know that I'm capable of fooling myself.
Ravi Zacharias' message this morning on Malachi sobered me, as did Andy Stanley's. Stanley's message was about letting go of the hurts that have occurred in our past. Pardoning people who have wronged us. I think I've done that, but there are times I have to force myself to change my viewpoint.
His speaking of people whose lives seem so smooth and easy is what convicted me. I feel like most of my life has been in emergency status. That makes me wonder if I am fooling myself.
Malachi 1:2 says, "I have loved you," says the LORD, "but you ask, 'How have you loved us?" Verse 6 says, "If I am a master, where is the reverence due me?" says the LORD Almighty. Verse 8 says, "When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that now wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong?"
We no longer offer sacrifices, but do we bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord? How often is my worship half-hearted or insincere? How often does my mind wander off to other things instead of focusing on what the pastor believes the Lord has shown him to tell the congregation?
The late Vance Havner said more lies are told over a hymn book than any place else on earth. Do I truly mean the words I sing? Zacharias quoted someone this morning who said in the Christian's life joy is central and sorrow is peripheral. It's the other way around in the unbeliever's. Sometimes I feel like Eeyore. Always seeing the negative side of things. I don't want to be like that. I also know I have been wired to be a conflict thinker, so some of it comes from the fact it's a part of my nature to see the possibilities of disaster. If that's from the Lord, I need to accept it and move on, but if it's from a sin-sickened attitude, I need to repent.
The upshot is that I'm headed to church this morning, seriously thinking about my own spiritual condition, longing to truly worship the Lord as He deserves, but well aware the my sin nature will battle whole-hearted worship.
It didn't help my attitude as I watched the debate last night. I sincerely hope the rest of them are not on Saturday night. I wanted to tell about all of them to get over themselves and grow up. My husband is right, Ben Carson is about the only one who deserves our vote and respect. I got so sick of the rest of them calling each other names. We don't know anyone's heart. Only God knows that, so quit the accusations and start talking substance. I went to bed with all that chaos rolling around in my mind and woke up this morning with the knowledge that truly worshipping the Lord was going to take an act of the will. If I want to have that joy central in my life and sorrow peripheral, I have to get past remembering the nastiness of the men who want to be the leader of this country.
I have to remember the Lord is Sovereign and He will choose our leader for His purpose. He chose me to be in this world at this time for a purpose. Lord, let me fulfill that purpose, regardless what it is. And enable me to worship you in spirit and truth and joy this morning. You are worthy of that.
Yes, I know there are many Scriptures to reassure me of His love for me, in spite of my faults. Philippians 1:6 says I can be confident that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
I am well aware of the fact that I will not be as much like Him as I can be until I see Him. I John 3:2 says that when He appears, we shall be like Him. I know that. I also know that I'm capable of fooling myself.
Ravi Zacharias' message this morning on Malachi sobered me, as did Andy Stanley's. Stanley's message was about letting go of the hurts that have occurred in our past. Pardoning people who have wronged us. I think I've done that, but there are times I have to force myself to change my viewpoint.
His speaking of people whose lives seem so smooth and easy is what convicted me. I feel like most of my life has been in emergency status. That makes me wonder if I am fooling myself.
Malachi 1:2 says, "I have loved you," says the LORD, "but you ask, 'How have you loved us?" Verse 6 says, "If I am a master, where is the reverence due me?" says the LORD Almighty. Verse 8 says, "When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that now wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong?"
We no longer offer sacrifices, but do we bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord? How often is my worship half-hearted or insincere? How often does my mind wander off to other things instead of focusing on what the pastor believes the Lord has shown him to tell the congregation?
The late Vance Havner said more lies are told over a hymn book than any place else on earth. Do I truly mean the words I sing? Zacharias quoted someone this morning who said in the Christian's life joy is central and sorrow is peripheral. It's the other way around in the unbeliever's. Sometimes I feel like Eeyore. Always seeing the negative side of things. I don't want to be like that. I also know I have been wired to be a conflict thinker, so some of it comes from the fact it's a part of my nature to see the possibilities of disaster. If that's from the Lord, I need to accept it and move on, but if it's from a sin-sickened attitude, I need to repent.
The upshot is that I'm headed to church this morning, seriously thinking about my own spiritual condition, longing to truly worship the Lord as He deserves, but well aware the my sin nature will battle whole-hearted worship.
It didn't help my attitude as I watched the debate last night. I sincerely hope the rest of them are not on Saturday night. I wanted to tell about all of them to get over themselves and grow up. My husband is right, Ben Carson is about the only one who deserves our vote and respect. I got so sick of the rest of them calling each other names. We don't know anyone's heart. Only God knows that, so quit the accusations and start talking substance. I went to bed with all that chaos rolling around in my mind and woke up this morning with the knowledge that truly worshipping the Lord was going to take an act of the will. If I want to have that joy central in my life and sorrow peripheral, I have to get past remembering the nastiness of the men who want to be the leader of this country.
I have to remember the Lord is Sovereign and He will choose our leader for His purpose. He chose me to be in this world at this time for a purpose. Lord, let me fulfill that purpose, regardless what it is. And enable me to worship you in spirit and truth and joy this morning. You are worthy of that.
Friday, February 12, 2016
Credit where it's due
I'll be the first to admit I'm not really a Trump fan. I do appreciate his ability to rear good children who don't drink, smoke, or do drugs, and work hard. Hat's off to him. Anyone who's reared children know what a great feat he has accomplished.
When he first announced his candidacy, I thought he had a lot of really good things to say. I also had this feeling he might just be the next President. As time went on, however, I respected him less and less. I don't like his thin skinned whining when someone points out his imperfections, I don't like his foul language. I don't like his attacks on other candidates. I don't like how he hogs the media attention. We've already had a President like that. I especially don't like his indefinite answers on specific policies. That's just for starters.
But, I digress. Yesterday, I was listening to the radio in the car and a woman called in to say she tried to contact Donald Trump without ever expecting to hear back from him. The first number she called was a wrong number but the person she talked to gave her another number, which she called and figured that was the end of the matter. Imagine her surprise when one of Trump's people called her back and impressed her with courtesy and interest in what she had to say. Her thoughts? She said, "That's a man who runs a tight ship." Good for him. It's pretty obvious that he does run a tight ship. He wouldn't have been able to take that million dollars his dad gave him and turn it into 9+ billion. That's a major accomplishment in anyone's book.
On the other hand, there's more to life than getting rich. Yesterday, I was reading Psalm 52. Verses 7 - 9 brought Mr. Trump to mind. Verse 7 says, "Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others." Sound familiar? He is supposed to have said he never felt the need to ask God's forgiveness for anything. Really? If he said and believes that, I feel sorry for him.
Someday, we will all stand before a holy God and give account of our lives. In contrast, verses 8 and 9 say, "But I am like an olive tree nourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. I will praise You forever for what You done; in Your name I will hope, for Your name is good. I will praise You in the presence of the saints."
Therefore, if I have a relationship with Jesus Christ - and I do - no matter who is elected President, I will trust in God's unfailing love. I will praise Him for what He's done. Having said that, I have to say I'm praying God will show mercy to America and choose a good leader for us. Yes, we elect our leaders, but God is Sovereign and will see to it that our next President will fulfill His purpose.
No matter who God chooses, we need to be praying fervently for our leaders. The ones we have now and the ones we will have in the near future. We also need to be praying that we, as a people, will be willing to follow a good leader. The Old testament talks about good kings and stiff-necked people who wouldn't follow. We're terribly divided and very angry. Fearful, too. Unfortunately, that says more about America's relationship with Jesus Christ than we'd like to admit. President Obama said we are not a Christian nation. His reasoning was way off base, but our behavior may bear out his offensive words.
Mr. Trump, whether you like it or not, I will pray for you. Not because I am such a wonderful person, or even because you don't believe you need God's forgiveness - the only way to salvation - but I will pray for you and all our candidates because God is worthy of my trust, my obedience, my devotion, and my praise. In that way, I will give credit where it's due.
When he first announced his candidacy, I thought he had a lot of really good things to say. I also had this feeling he might just be the next President. As time went on, however, I respected him less and less. I don't like his thin skinned whining when someone points out his imperfections, I don't like his foul language. I don't like his attacks on other candidates. I don't like how he hogs the media attention. We've already had a President like that. I especially don't like his indefinite answers on specific policies. That's just for starters.
But, I digress. Yesterday, I was listening to the radio in the car and a woman called in to say she tried to contact Donald Trump without ever expecting to hear back from him. The first number she called was a wrong number but the person she talked to gave her another number, which she called and figured that was the end of the matter. Imagine her surprise when one of Trump's people called her back and impressed her with courtesy and interest in what she had to say. Her thoughts? She said, "That's a man who runs a tight ship." Good for him. It's pretty obvious that he does run a tight ship. He wouldn't have been able to take that million dollars his dad gave him and turn it into 9+ billion. That's a major accomplishment in anyone's book.
On the other hand, there's more to life than getting rich. Yesterday, I was reading Psalm 52. Verses 7 - 9 brought Mr. Trump to mind. Verse 7 says, "Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others." Sound familiar? He is supposed to have said he never felt the need to ask God's forgiveness for anything. Really? If he said and believes that, I feel sorry for him.
Someday, we will all stand before a holy God and give account of our lives. In contrast, verses 8 and 9 say, "But I am like an olive tree nourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. I will praise You forever for what You done; in Your name I will hope, for Your name is good. I will praise You in the presence of the saints."
Therefore, if I have a relationship with Jesus Christ - and I do - no matter who is elected President, I will trust in God's unfailing love. I will praise Him for what He's done. Having said that, I have to say I'm praying God will show mercy to America and choose a good leader for us. Yes, we elect our leaders, but God is Sovereign and will see to it that our next President will fulfill His purpose.
No matter who God chooses, we need to be praying fervently for our leaders. The ones we have now and the ones we will have in the near future. We also need to be praying that we, as a people, will be willing to follow a good leader. The Old testament talks about good kings and stiff-necked people who wouldn't follow. We're terribly divided and very angry. Fearful, too. Unfortunately, that says more about America's relationship with Jesus Christ than we'd like to admit. President Obama said we are not a Christian nation. His reasoning was way off base, but our behavior may bear out his offensive words.
Mr. Trump, whether you like it or not, I will pray for you. Not because I am such a wonderful person, or even because you don't believe you need God's forgiveness - the only way to salvation - but I will pray for you and all our candidates because God is worthy of my trust, my obedience, my devotion, and my praise. In that way, I will give credit where it's due.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Turn it Off!
This morning, I heard a very profound young black radio talk show host by the name of Craig Johnson on the news. I emphasize his race because I will otherwise be discredited because he was primarily talking to blacks, but applied his words to everyone, me included.
He was asked about the video being shown in a Virginia public school, emphasizing the unfair way blacks have been treated. No denying that. He mentioned that Muslims have enslaved Jews, Europeans have enslaved other Europeans. Native Americans have been shamefully treated by our government. Women have been mistreated by men. Today, women are mistreating the unborn by terminating their pregnancy. Mistreatment has been going on since the dawn of time. Cain killed his own brother because God appreciated Abel's sacrifice, but not Cain's. Cain knew what to sacrifice but didn't and suffered the consequences. That's another event for another blog.
Today's blog is about attitude, specifically thinking the world is fixed and you can't get ahead because of the color discrimination or the glass ceiling women bump up against climbing the corporate ladder or whatever else you think is repressing your brilliance. Mr. Johnson's astute comments were not only historical, he actually had a fantastic suggestion for today's world - unlike those who foster resentment, hate, and feelings of futility and failure,
After he made his statements regarding how wrong it is to constantly think and whine about the unfairness of the world, he was asked what he would do if he were making the video. "I would promote those who have made it." There it is. Focusing on the past is well known to cause depression.
However, if blacks, Asians, Europeans, Native Americans or any race or ethnic background are honored because of their accomplishments (not the color of their skin), others of that same race or ethnicity can follow their example and make their own lives better. Jews have been mistreated more than any group in history and their list of accomplished people is awesome. Strangely enough, I can't remember their names but I can remember the names of many accomplished blacks. For example, George Washington Carver was born in slave times and look what he accomplished. Same with Mary Bethune, founder of Bethune Cookman college. (I studied her in college because she was a Moody graduate) In today's world, we have a myriad of blacks who have made it, including one who currently holds the most powerful position in the world. Whites couldn't hold him back. It's too bad he doesn't credit the whites who put him into that position. Bad attitudes are never satisfied. They're black holes that gobble up positive ideas. Ideas that could have taken someone where they wanted to go in life.
I remember Charleton Heston saying years ago the number of actors who didn't make it were astronomical compared to those who did. There's probably 100 Michael Jordan wannabes for every basketball player who actually becomes rich and famous. In fact, there was a recent Facebook post in which Michael Jordan listed his failures. He may have done that to encourage the recent quarterback who lost the SuperBowl. Quarterback Cam was the darling of football because he was so young and had done so well, but he met more than his match against Peyton Manning and the Broncos. Then, people began dissing him right and left. Why? It had nothing to do with the color of his skin, or even his team's loss. It had everything to do with his bad attitude.
Speaking of football, one coach has been known to keep a losing score on the scoreboard until the next game to remind the team of their failure. Not a good idea in relationships according to Joe Stowell, former President of Moody Bible Institute. Negative thinking, especially self-pity, traps people into thinking there's no hope or blaming someone else for failure. Or both.
The past two Sundays, our pastor has been speaking on I Thessalonians 5:16 - 18. Verse 16 says: "Be joyful always." In other words, have a great attitude. Verse 17 says, "Pray continually." Take action. Talk to the Lord about it. Verse 18 says: "Give thanks in all circumstances." Accept what's going on in life.
I suppose if someone has to be blamed for life not going the way I want, it's because I have surrendered my life to the Lord and He knows what's best for me. Yes, I have to admit there are times I feel sorry for myself because things aren't going my way. However, the Lord always sends someone along to remind me that He's in control. Today it was Craig Johnson and Joe Stowell. Thank you, Lord, for being in control and making sure I have a good attitude, take action, and gratefully accept what comes in my life.
While listening and them to Craig and Dr. Stowell, I was reminded of the events in Joseph's life. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by a woman, forgotten by another slave, God still did incredible things in his life. I guess I trying to say in all this, it's God who decided who's going to do what in life. When the time came, Joseph could have made life very miserable for his brothers. Instead, he honestly said, "What you did, you meant for evil, but God meant it for good."
God is weaving all our lives in a beautiful tapestry. Unfortunately, all we see is the back side of it, where all the knots and crossed threads are. It's only when we see it from His perspective do we realize how beautiful He has made life for us. Finally, let's all turn off the negative thinking for a better attitude, proper action, and gratitude.
He was asked about the video being shown in a Virginia public school, emphasizing the unfair way blacks have been treated. No denying that. He mentioned that Muslims have enslaved Jews, Europeans have enslaved other Europeans. Native Americans have been shamefully treated by our government. Women have been mistreated by men. Today, women are mistreating the unborn by terminating their pregnancy. Mistreatment has been going on since the dawn of time. Cain killed his own brother because God appreciated Abel's sacrifice, but not Cain's. Cain knew what to sacrifice but didn't and suffered the consequences. That's another event for another blog.
Today's blog is about attitude, specifically thinking the world is fixed and you can't get ahead because of the color discrimination or the glass ceiling women bump up against climbing the corporate ladder or whatever else you think is repressing your brilliance. Mr. Johnson's astute comments were not only historical, he actually had a fantastic suggestion for today's world - unlike those who foster resentment, hate, and feelings of futility and failure,
After he made his statements regarding how wrong it is to constantly think and whine about the unfairness of the world, he was asked what he would do if he were making the video. "I would promote those who have made it." There it is. Focusing on the past is well known to cause depression.
However, if blacks, Asians, Europeans, Native Americans or any race or ethnic background are honored because of their accomplishments (not the color of their skin), others of that same race or ethnicity can follow their example and make their own lives better. Jews have been mistreated more than any group in history and their list of accomplished people is awesome. Strangely enough, I can't remember their names but I can remember the names of many accomplished blacks. For example, George Washington Carver was born in slave times and look what he accomplished. Same with Mary Bethune, founder of Bethune Cookman college. (I studied her in college because she was a Moody graduate) In today's world, we have a myriad of blacks who have made it, including one who currently holds the most powerful position in the world. Whites couldn't hold him back. It's too bad he doesn't credit the whites who put him into that position. Bad attitudes are never satisfied. They're black holes that gobble up positive ideas. Ideas that could have taken someone where they wanted to go in life.
I remember Charleton Heston saying years ago the number of actors who didn't make it were astronomical compared to those who did. There's probably 100 Michael Jordan wannabes for every basketball player who actually becomes rich and famous. In fact, there was a recent Facebook post in which Michael Jordan listed his failures. He may have done that to encourage the recent quarterback who lost the SuperBowl. Quarterback Cam was the darling of football because he was so young and had done so well, but he met more than his match against Peyton Manning and the Broncos. Then, people began dissing him right and left. Why? It had nothing to do with the color of his skin, or even his team's loss. It had everything to do with his bad attitude.
Speaking of football, one coach has been known to keep a losing score on the scoreboard until the next game to remind the team of their failure. Not a good idea in relationships according to Joe Stowell, former President of Moody Bible Institute. Negative thinking, especially self-pity, traps people into thinking there's no hope or blaming someone else for failure. Or both.
The past two Sundays, our pastor has been speaking on I Thessalonians 5:16 - 18. Verse 16 says: "Be joyful always." In other words, have a great attitude. Verse 17 says, "Pray continually." Take action. Talk to the Lord about it. Verse 18 says: "Give thanks in all circumstances." Accept what's going on in life.
I suppose if someone has to be blamed for life not going the way I want, it's because I have surrendered my life to the Lord and He knows what's best for me. Yes, I have to admit there are times I feel sorry for myself because things aren't going my way. However, the Lord always sends someone along to remind me that He's in control. Today it was Craig Johnson and Joe Stowell. Thank you, Lord, for being in control and making sure I have a good attitude, take action, and gratefully accept what comes in my life.
While listening and them to Craig and Dr. Stowell, I was reminded of the events in Joseph's life. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by a woman, forgotten by another slave, God still did incredible things in his life. I guess I trying to say in all this, it's God who decided who's going to do what in life. When the time came, Joseph could have made life very miserable for his brothers. Instead, he honestly said, "What you did, you meant for evil, but God meant it for good."
God is weaving all our lives in a beautiful tapestry. Unfortunately, all we see is the back side of it, where all the knots and crossed threads are. It's only when we see it from His perspective do we realize how beautiful He has made life for us. Finally, let's all turn off the negative thinking for a better attitude, proper action, and gratitude.
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Kamikaze Christie
The first official primary election occurred last night and the results were an outstanding win for Sanders and Trump did extremely well, too. Marco Rubio has gone on national television and apologized for his poor performance in Saturday night's debate. Very noble of him to do so.
Chris Christie went after him like a Japanese kamikaze pilot dive bombing an American ship. The pilot burned out, the ship's still going, damaged, to be sure, but still afloat. Christie has made many good points on several occasions, but I did think he was way over the top on Saturday, especially since he was always the one to call a halt to the bickering between other candidates and reminding them they were all Republicans and needed to follow Reagan's 11th commandment. Apparently, the voters of New Hampshire felt the same way. He was also so busy dissing Rubio, he never responded to Rubio's comment that New Jersey's credit rating has been down graded 9 times. That's a very serious allegation. Maybe more people noticed that than Christie realized. Regardless, he's suspended his campaign.
As has Carly Fiorina. I'm so sorry she couldn't get the traction she deserved. Most pundits admitted she was the most articulate, the most well-prepared person in the debates. She was also the best at answering the questions asked instead of running off in another direction about a tough question. She was asked repeatedly about her situation at Hewlett Packard and I know the restructuring angered a lot of people.
I understand restructuring. I lost the best job I ever had as a social worker at Holy Cross Hospital because the hospital was bleeding money badly. No, I didn't want to lose that job, but I understand they did what they had to do. Now, if I found out that the nuns got richer for it while a lot of us suffered, that would be upsetting. That's my complaint about Trump's four company bankruptcies. He didn't suffer, but the employees did.
I was glad to see Cruz do as well as he did. At one point, it was mentioned that he had pretty much given up on New Hampshire. They weren't going to vote for him, anyway. But, they did. Congratulations to him.
Congratulations to John Kasich as well. He has made several statements I disagree with and several that give pause for thought. Most cannot see him as the winner. He just doesn't have the money and his policies are not well received in the South. If Trump wins, maybe he'll make Kasich his running mate.
Congratulations also to Jeb Bush. He did much better in New Hampshire and he seems to be moving up in the polls. At this particular point, his biggest draw back may be "Bush fatigue." Wonder what happened to "Clinton fatigue?" It's been said she's not well liked among Democrats, but they just don't have anyone else. A very poor reason to give her my vote, were I a Democrat.
I'm not sure what Ben Carson's and Jim Gilmore's strategy is. Carson only got 2% of the vote and Gilmore didn't even register. And, yet they remain in the race while Fiorina and Christie got far more votes and have suspended their campaigns. So many people have said they really like Carson, but they just don't think he's electable. That's becoming apparent. No, I don't think the Cruz situation in Iowa has anything to do with it. Any Carson supporter who didn't vote for him because the news went out that Carson was giving up wasn't much of a supporter in the first place.
It's also been mentioned that it would be good if whoever wins wold place their opponents in the cabinet. That sounds like a great idea to me. It would be very healing for the party and very good for the country, I'm sure.
In the meantime, I would like most of all to see more substance and less of the back stabbing. You cannot make yourself look better by putting someone else down. It only makes you look mean-spirited, cheap, and undeserving of the office of the President.
Still praying about who I'll vote for.
Chris Christie went after him like a Japanese kamikaze pilot dive bombing an American ship. The pilot burned out, the ship's still going, damaged, to be sure, but still afloat. Christie has made many good points on several occasions, but I did think he was way over the top on Saturday, especially since he was always the one to call a halt to the bickering between other candidates and reminding them they were all Republicans and needed to follow Reagan's 11th commandment. Apparently, the voters of New Hampshire felt the same way. He was also so busy dissing Rubio, he never responded to Rubio's comment that New Jersey's credit rating has been down graded 9 times. That's a very serious allegation. Maybe more people noticed that than Christie realized. Regardless, he's suspended his campaign.
As has Carly Fiorina. I'm so sorry she couldn't get the traction she deserved. Most pundits admitted she was the most articulate, the most well-prepared person in the debates. She was also the best at answering the questions asked instead of running off in another direction about a tough question. She was asked repeatedly about her situation at Hewlett Packard and I know the restructuring angered a lot of people.
I understand restructuring. I lost the best job I ever had as a social worker at Holy Cross Hospital because the hospital was bleeding money badly. No, I didn't want to lose that job, but I understand they did what they had to do. Now, if I found out that the nuns got richer for it while a lot of us suffered, that would be upsetting. That's my complaint about Trump's four company bankruptcies. He didn't suffer, but the employees did.
I was glad to see Cruz do as well as he did. At one point, it was mentioned that he had pretty much given up on New Hampshire. They weren't going to vote for him, anyway. But, they did. Congratulations to him.
Congratulations to John Kasich as well. He has made several statements I disagree with and several that give pause for thought. Most cannot see him as the winner. He just doesn't have the money and his policies are not well received in the South. If Trump wins, maybe he'll make Kasich his running mate.
Congratulations also to Jeb Bush. He did much better in New Hampshire and he seems to be moving up in the polls. At this particular point, his biggest draw back may be "Bush fatigue." Wonder what happened to "Clinton fatigue?" It's been said she's not well liked among Democrats, but they just don't have anyone else. A very poor reason to give her my vote, were I a Democrat.
I'm not sure what Ben Carson's and Jim Gilmore's strategy is. Carson only got 2% of the vote and Gilmore didn't even register. And, yet they remain in the race while Fiorina and Christie got far more votes and have suspended their campaigns. So many people have said they really like Carson, but they just don't think he's electable. That's becoming apparent. No, I don't think the Cruz situation in Iowa has anything to do with it. Any Carson supporter who didn't vote for him because the news went out that Carson was giving up wasn't much of a supporter in the first place.
It's also been mentioned that it would be good if whoever wins wold place their opponents in the cabinet. That sounds like a great idea to me. It would be very healing for the party and very good for the country, I'm sure.
In the meantime, I would like most of all to see more substance and less of the back stabbing. You cannot make yourself look better by putting someone else down. It only makes you look mean-spirited, cheap, and undeserving of the office of the President.
Still praying about who I'll vote for.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Scary
Whoo, howdy! Here I go again. Today, my computer guru set up my Facebook page for my book(s). It's one thing to watch an expert, take notes, and then when I'm all by myself, to follow his steps and daily post on the site.
I can see the wisdom of engaging in social media in order to be more successful as an author, or any business for that matter. One of the big lessons I learned today is to shift my thinking - again- to be more professional. I am such an amateur and I have so much to learn. How many times have I said that before?
About 3/4 of the way through today's instruction, I wailed, "I'm drowning." There so much to learn. Then again, I've always said the day I stop learning is the day I die.
There's a popular expression in the athletic world these days. It was never used in my day. If it had been, perhaps more of us my age would be in better physical condition. The expression is "muscle memory." The way professional athletes get to be as good as they are is to practice certain moves so much, the body reacts in a certain way without even thinking about it. I imagine that's what happened when the Steeler had a spectacular gymnastic catch a few weeks ago. His muscles responded automatically.
The brain, I'm told, works the same way. That's one reason I work with the boys in school to memorize, memorize, memorize. The more they quote something, the better they do. They're improving their ability to remember what they're learning with each time they repeat it.
Therefore, I will have to learn to repeat the steps shown to me until they become second nature. When those steps become second nature, I'll move to something new. Who know? Someday, I might even be good at it. Stay tuned.
I can see the wisdom of engaging in social media in order to be more successful as an author, or any business for that matter. One of the big lessons I learned today is to shift my thinking - again- to be more professional. I am such an amateur and I have so much to learn. How many times have I said that before?
About 3/4 of the way through today's instruction, I wailed, "I'm drowning." There so much to learn. Then again, I've always said the day I stop learning is the day I die.
There's a popular expression in the athletic world these days. It was never used in my day. If it had been, perhaps more of us my age would be in better physical condition. The expression is "muscle memory." The way professional athletes get to be as good as they are is to practice certain moves so much, the body reacts in a certain way without even thinking about it. I imagine that's what happened when the Steeler had a spectacular gymnastic catch a few weeks ago. His muscles responded automatically.
The brain, I'm told, works the same way. That's one reason I work with the boys in school to memorize, memorize, memorize. The more they quote something, the better they do. They're improving their ability to remember what they're learning with each time they repeat it.
Therefore, I will have to learn to repeat the steps shown to me until they become second nature. When those steps become second nature, I'll move to something new. Who know? Someday, I might even be good at it. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
On the high wire
The results of last night's caucus' in Iowa has me still walking a tight rope. I'm still undecided about who I'll vote for when it comes to Florida's primary. Still have lots of praying to do. I continue to try to be informed, but it ain't easy.
It seems like the more I listen, the more information I have to wade through in order to make an informed decision. I do not want to be a "low information" voter. That takes me back to prayer. That's the best way. I am constantly reminded of Psalm 118:8. "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in men." None of the candidates are perfect, and it may depend on which imperfections are dealbreakers as much who can lead our country out of the mess we're in now.
Mike Huckabee disappointed me one occasion as much as he encouraged me on others. There were other times he danced around the question rather than answering directly, but that's a typical political hazard. The one time he disappointed me was when he supposedly refused to let Ted Cruz on stage with the woman in Kentucky whose job was on the line for refusing to supply marriage licenses to homosexuals. Fat lot of good it did him. Conversely, I deeply appreciate his refusal to allow the media to harp on Social Security as an entitlement. It's an enforced savings account that Congress stole and continues to bankrupt. I appreciate you, Governor, and I thank you for what you were trying to do. Unfortunately, you just couldn't get the momentum.
On to the winners of the caucus, Ted Cruz and Hillary Clinton. Ladies first. She's been declared the winner by .5%. In fact, by my math, 49.9 minus 49.5 is really .4%, but who am I to argue with the people doing the counting? A squeaker by anyone's count. Then, it's also been announced that 6 polling places were deadlocked and had to flip a coin. Amazingly, Secretary Clinton won all 6! Is that the .5? In my opinion, Secretary Clinton, that's not worth crowing about, especially when you think back to when you first announced your candidacy. Your numbers were higher than anyone in recent history. As a CHRISTIAN, conservative Republican, she will not get my vote, but if my opinion can cause anyone who expects to vote for her to stop and think, I'm happy.
Senator Cruz. I have to admit I blow hot and cold on you. I appreciate your testimony. I appreciate your stand on many of the issues that are important to the country, but I still have doubts. My biggest concern is that you, like Ron Paul, cannot get support for what you believe is right. How can you lead if no one follows? I'm also concerned about your electability. Can you win in the general election? I'm not sure the country will tolerate your brand of conservatism. Iowa did. Congratulations on that. However, Iowa has one of the highest percentages of Evangelicals in the country, but what about the rest of the country?
This morning, your campaign was accused of dirty tricks. Ben Carson claims your people told his people he had suspended his campaign. If true, not very Christian at all. It's that kind of behavior that makes unbelievers skeptical and call us hypocrites. With good reason. On the other hand, I find it hard to believe anyone in the Carson camp would believe he was dropping out on the very night of the decision making caucus. Perhaps the Cruz people remembered what happened in Florida in 2000 when Democrats claimed Gore won before the polls closed in western Florida. (Western Florida is in a different time zone.) People in that part of the state didn't vote because they believed it had already been decided. Regardless, if true, it's beneath you and your profession as a Christian.
I say again, dirty tricks may come back to haunt the perpetrator. If not, they will hurt the country. Where's our nobility? Where's our integrity? Speaking of which, does Donald Trump owe Mitt Romney an apology? He's castigated him severely many times because he "couldn't close the deal." It's not that easy, is it. Mr. Trump? Supposedly, your turn is coming for the hot seat. It's been said a documentary will be made, using only your words. Will they stand the scrutiny? Or will they hurt you like they have in Scotland? Will you skip the next debate if you are at podium #2 instead of number one?
Richard Nixon once said he didn't mind the media looking at him through the microscope, but when it came to using a proctoscope, well you get the picture. We do investigate our politicians more and more carefully today. John Kennedy Jr. said he doubted if his father would have run in this political climate.
Again, our vote often boils down to who's got the least imperfections rather than who's the best qualified. Ted Cruz was certainly tested by fire in the last debate and I applaud him for that, but can he win? Can he unify the party? Serious questions that I can't answer satisfactorily in my own mind, at least not yet. Am I leaving the impression I'm on the high wire?
Marco Rubio came in third. He's in a very good position, especially if Ted Cruz gives up on New Hampshire, as reported. Rubio was so very close to Trump and not that far behind Cruz. I have to say he has a lot going for him. He understands our world is changing very rapidly and we need people who can keep up. He said that in the very first debate. I was impressed. He's a uniter, not a divider. but how much of that is going along to get along and how much is genuinely being able to keep the country from falling apart? There are those in Europe who've been predicting that the United States will divide into four or five countries any day now. Do we really want America fractured?
I especially liked Rubio's strong statement in one debate when the moderator said he'd been called a savior and he shot back saying there's only one Savior and that's Jesus Christ. In some circles, that statement could hurt him severely, but he said it strongly. There's been complaints about his immigration bill. He emphasized that standards must be set and upheld. Can't argue with that. Parsing each candidate's words can be exhausting. Time to pray and turn the TV off.
The rest of the candidates fell below consideration and I'm sorry. Every time Carly Fiorina or Chris Christie speaks, I'm impressed. Same for Ben Carson. Even Jeb Bush although I didn't start out that way. What to do, what to do? Thankfully, there's still time to pray and seek God's will. We vote on March 16. By then, perhaps enough will have dropped out, making the decision easier. That's part of the reason I'm undecided. Each has strong points as well as weak ones. Regardless who wins the nomination, I want to cast my vote for the one I believe God wants me to support. When it's all said and done, it's the Lord who chooses our leaders. It's my job to trust Him no matter who or how He chooses.
It seems like the more I listen, the more information I have to wade through in order to make an informed decision. I do not want to be a "low information" voter. That takes me back to prayer. That's the best way. I am constantly reminded of Psalm 118:8. "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in men." None of the candidates are perfect, and it may depend on which imperfections are dealbreakers as much who can lead our country out of the mess we're in now.
Mike Huckabee disappointed me one occasion as much as he encouraged me on others. There were other times he danced around the question rather than answering directly, but that's a typical political hazard. The one time he disappointed me was when he supposedly refused to let Ted Cruz on stage with the woman in Kentucky whose job was on the line for refusing to supply marriage licenses to homosexuals. Fat lot of good it did him. Conversely, I deeply appreciate his refusal to allow the media to harp on Social Security as an entitlement. It's an enforced savings account that Congress stole and continues to bankrupt. I appreciate you, Governor, and I thank you for what you were trying to do. Unfortunately, you just couldn't get the momentum.
On to the winners of the caucus, Ted Cruz and Hillary Clinton. Ladies first. She's been declared the winner by .5%. In fact, by my math, 49.9 minus 49.5 is really .4%, but who am I to argue with the people doing the counting? A squeaker by anyone's count. Then, it's also been announced that 6 polling places were deadlocked and had to flip a coin. Amazingly, Secretary Clinton won all 6! Is that the .5? In my opinion, Secretary Clinton, that's not worth crowing about, especially when you think back to when you first announced your candidacy. Your numbers were higher than anyone in recent history. As a CHRISTIAN, conservative Republican, she will not get my vote, but if my opinion can cause anyone who expects to vote for her to stop and think, I'm happy.
Senator Cruz. I have to admit I blow hot and cold on you. I appreciate your testimony. I appreciate your stand on many of the issues that are important to the country, but I still have doubts. My biggest concern is that you, like Ron Paul, cannot get support for what you believe is right. How can you lead if no one follows? I'm also concerned about your electability. Can you win in the general election? I'm not sure the country will tolerate your brand of conservatism. Iowa did. Congratulations on that. However, Iowa has one of the highest percentages of Evangelicals in the country, but what about the rest of the country?
This morning, your campaign was accused of dirty tricks. Ben Carson claims your people told his people he had suspended his campaign. If true, not very Christian at all. It's that kind of behavior that makes unbelievers skeptical and call us hypocrites. With good reason. On the other hand, I find it hard to believe anyone in the Carson camp would believe he was dropping out on the very night of the decision making caucus. Perhaps the Cruz people remembered what happened in Florida in 2000 when Democrats claimed Gore won before the polls closed in western Florida. (Western Florida is in a different time zone.) People in that part of the state didn't vote because they believed it had already been decided. Regardless, if true, it's beneath you and your profession as a Christian.
I say again, dirty tricks may come back to haunt the perpetrator. If not, they will hurt the country. Where's our nobility? Where's our integrity? Speaking of which, does Donald Trump owe Mitt Romney an apology? He's castigated him severely many times because he "couldn't close the deal." It's not that easy, is it. Mr. Trump? Supposedly, your turn is coming for the hot seat. It's been said a documentary will be made, using only your words. Will they stand the scrutiny? Or will they hurt you like they have in Scotland? Will you skip the next debate if you are at podium #2 instead of number one?
Richard Nixon once said he didn't mind the media looking at him through the microscope, but when it came to using a proctoscope, well you get the picture. We do investigate our politicians more and more carefully today. John Kennedy Jr. said he doubted if his father would have run in this political climate.
Again, our vote often boils down to who's got the least imperfections rather than who's the best qualified. Ted Cruz was certainly tested by fire in the last debate and I applaud him for that, but can he win? Can he unify the party? Serious questions that I can't answer satisfactorily in my own mind, at least not yet. Am I leaving the impression I'm on the high wire?
Marco Rubio came in third. He's in a very good position, especially if Ted Cruz gives up on New Hampshire, as reported. Rubio was so very close to Trump and not that far behind Cruz. I have to say he has a lot going for him. He understands our world is changing very rapidly and we need people who can keep up. He said that in the very first debate. I was impressed. He's a uniter, not a divider. but how much of that is going along to get along and how much is genuinely being able to keep the country from falling apart? There are those in Europe who've been predicting that the United States will divide into four or five countries any day now. Do we really want America fractured?
I especially liked Rubio's strong statement in one debate when the moderator said he'd been called a savior and he shot back saying there's only one Savior and that's Jesus Christ. In some circles, that statement could hurt him severely, but he said it strongly. There's been complaints about his immigration bill. He emphasized that standards must be set and upheld. Can't argue with that. Parsing each candidate's words can be exhausting. Time to pray and turn the TV off.
The rest of the candidates fell below consideration and I'm sorry. Every time Carly Fiorina or Chris Christie speaks, I'm impressed. Same for Ben Carson. Even Jeb Bush although I didn't start out that way. What to do, what to do? Thankfully, there's still time to pray and seek God's will. We vote on March 16. By then, perhaps enough will have dropped out, making the decision easier. That's part of the reason I'm undecided. Each has strong points as well as weak ones. Regardless who wins the nomination, I want to cast my vote for the one I believe God wants me to support. When it's all said and done, it's the Lord who chooses our leaders. It's my job to trust Him no matter who or how He chooses.
Monday, February 1, 2016
Blossoms on my tree
How did I get here? I look in the mirror and say that a lot. Time moves faster the older you get and by now, it's speeding along at a swift clip. It dawned on me Saturday that I'm an OLD woman. I had lunch with five other women. Very special ladies in my life, everyone of them. We ranged in age from 16 to 72. Guess who's 72? OK, enough of that. To be honest, being 72 isn't so bad. Over the years I've had some wonderful friends and that includes those wonderful ladies. It takes time, lots of it, to build friendships, so I'm grateful. Very grateful.
It was such a joy to see all of them. Joyce and I talk on the phone every once in a while and she's visited on a few occasions. She lives in another state. Helen reads my blog and feels like we're in constant contact, but I miss her wisdom, her style, and everything about her. It's kind of a one-way street. I hadn't seen Robin in 16 years and it's been almost as long for Barb and her daughter.
We became acquainted at a church almost 20 years ago. Interestingly enough, none of us attend there anymore for one reason or another. Worshipping together, fellowshiping together provides a bond that rarely goes away, even if the years and miles have separated us.
The Facebook posts are flying and we're looking forward to getting together again next year. The only stipulation I have is that we spend more time together than we had on Saturday. Others want to join us as well. That will be delightful. Looking forward to it. Just eleven months and some odd days to go!
Sarah, the 16 year old is an amazing young lady. For her to sit there and listen to much older women catch up without losing her smile was a very gracious thing for her to do. Nor did she try to make the focus on herself. Most unusual for a teenager. I look forward to getting together with her again and learning more about her. She's also beautiful by the way. By the way, Sarah, I have a 19 year old grandson that I'd like for you to meet!
Family pictures were a prominent part of the lunch as well as taking them to put on Facebook. Proud moms, grandmas, and great grandmas all. Until next year, Dear Friends, keep in touch and plan on another reunion.
It was such a joy to see all of them. Joyce and I talk on the phone every once in a while and she's visited on a few occasions. She lives in another state. Helen reads my blog and feels like we're in constant contact, but I miss her wisdom, her style, and everything about her. It's kind of a one-way street. I hadn't seen Robin in 16 years and it's been almost as long for Barb and her daughter.
We became acquainted at a church almost 20 years ago. Interestingly enough, none of us attend there anymore for one reason or another. Worshipping together, fellowshiping together provides a bond that rarely goes away, even if the years and miles have separated us.
The Facebook posts are flying and we're looking forward to getting together again next year. The only stipulation I have is that we spend more time together than we had on Saturday. Others want to join us as well. That will be delightful. Looking forward to it. Just eleven months and some odd days to go!
Sarah, the 16 year old is an amazing young lady. For her to sit there and listen to much older women catch up without losing her smile was a very gracious thing for her to do. Nor did she try to make the focus on herself. Most unusual for a teenager. I look forward to getting together with her again and learning more about her. She's also beautiful by the way. By the way, Sarah, I have a 19 year old grandson that I'd like for you to meet!
Family pictures were a prominent part of the lunch as well as taking them to put on Facebook. Proud moms, grandmas, and great grandmas all. Until next year, Dear Friends, keep in touch and plan on another reunion.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)