QUESTION TIME – My daughter, Patty Armitage, was sharing with me that her husband was on the radio again this week in Houston. He fills in quite often for a program where people are given an opportunity to call in for the pastor to answer their questions about the Bible and spiritual matters. I told her I wouldn’t feel comfortable doing that, I am not the quickest answering questions out of the blue that way. Then I remembered a practice I had over the years of occasionally giving the people in our mission churches the opportunity of talking me out of my sermon by asking questions they had on their minds about the Bible and spiritual problems or incidents they had when witnessing to others. This was usually done on a Sunday evening. This gave them opportunity to respond to things I had preached or questions that had come to mind from their Bible reading and discussions with others. They usually kept the questions coming and my answers used up the time normally given to my sermon. The people always appreciated those times and I believe it was also a growth time for them while keeping me on my toes. These informal times drew the pastor and people closer together in dealing with questions and circumstances they were facing. So often in earlier years of having to work to support my ministry this also served to make my study time easier as I could preach the sermon they talked me out of the next week. (Smile, an ulterior motive.) At the church in Ogallala, Nebraska one of the area banks sponsored a daily fifteen-minute devotional time on the radio. The various churches in the area were given turns to speak for a week during that time, but it was strictly a devotional time, not a question and answer program
CHAPLAIN OF THE WEEK – It was also the policy of the churches in Ogallala at that time to have the pastor who spoke on the radio to be the hospital chaplain that week. We were at liberty to call on all the patients in the hospital during that week as Chaplain. I always took literature with me to leave with the patients and I read Scripture and had prayer with all that were willing to have me do so. I counted it a privilege to so minister. I also found it interesting at that time and on many occasions elsewhere, to learn that many of the pastors never bother to read the Scriptures or have prayer with the patients. Once in awhile I come across an individual that didn’t want me to read the Bible or have prayer with them, but that was rare. Larger hospitals have full time chaplains but often the smaller communities do not. Through the years I have always called in the hospital on our church families and others as I have had opportunity to do so. It is a time when hearts are often open to hear the gospel when at other times they might not be.
THE CASE AGAINST BARACK OBAMA - This is the title of a book by David Freddoso that is now available and has been on the best sellers list the past number of weeks. I’d like to have it to read but I haven’t ordered it yet. I have been reading excerpts from it from different sources dealing with questions about Obama’s personal judgments that raise questions about his qualifications to be president. He deals with his failing to make the grade on “three E’s: Energy, Education, and Eastern Europe. You may have picked up on those discussions in the news recently along with his alignment with the choice of friends and associations with people like Tony Rezko, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, and Bill Ayers. You might want to purchase the book or see if you can check it out at the library to help in your decision making process before November. I’ve always found reading such books helpful in understanding the election issues.
DNC CONVENTION – Keeping Fox News on most of the day I heard a lot of the discussions going on about the convention and also listened to the major speeches during the evening. For all the Obama talk of change, it sounds like the same old Democratic Politics of the past. The claim that Obama will restore the world’s confidence in America doesn’t hold much credibility with me. Then too, he is going to save us from the climate crisis (if there really is one). You’d think the man was a miracle worker. Obama’s inexperience will probably be balanced out by Joe Biden’s years of experience in the Senate as his vice president. My observations of Biden sitting on various committees over the years reveal his fiery opposition to every effort of President Bush and the Republicans, so we know he has the full approval of the Democrats for that position. Next week we will now be showered with Republican view points and see how the political battles will line up through the November elections. I don’t have a great deal of confidence in our nation’s future as a world leader. I still believe we must decline in world influence so that Biblical prophecy will be played out relating to Israel.
ISSUES FROM THE PAST – Thinking back over the years relating to issues there are several I recall. When I was first licensed to preach and started my first church there were debates with books and articles being written contrasting Evangelicalism and Modernism. Some were questioning the reality of Biblical miracles while trying to explain them away. For me, when the Bible records a miracle from the Old Testament or in the life of Christ, that was true fact and to question them was heretical and unnecessary. Then there was a period where some debated and questioned whether it was necessary to believe in a literal, bodily resurrection of Christ. Then there was a flood of writings and discussions about demon possession and whether it was possible for Christians to be so possessed. This raised many fears for many Christians and dozens of books were published but I am assured there is no way for the Holy Spirit to indwell a believer and then be possessed by a demonic cohort of Satan. Ecumenism heated up, more debates, arguments and books dealing with that subject. As these issues passed there was then the issue of translations and which Bible was inspired and who was a heretic for using anything but the old King James Bible. More recently is the issue of the immerging church and whether we should have large church buildings or home churches. I know there were other issues that fail to come to mind right now but one thing is certain, the book publishers have made a mint printing and selling their wares. Then too, I wonder what will be the next issue, it seems there is always another on the horizon. We just can’t seem to be content with the Bible itself as our guide. We seem to relish new issues.
HEALTH ISSUES – I have decided it is probably the better part of wisdom to go ahead and have heart by-pass surgery, as much as I dread it. I am waiting for a call back from the surgeon on Tuesday to learn when it may be done. Betty had August off with her chemo treatments but will start up again on the fourth of September. She has been feeling some better and doing a little more around the house than she was. We do so appreciate your continued and faithful prayers on our behalf.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
August 2008 #1
PERSONAL UPDATE – I didn’t get one of these out last week due to preparing to go into the hospital for a heart catherization. I went in on Sunday for hydration and then the procedure on Monday. They kept me over until Tuesday evening. The results were not very encouraging as there is some artery blockage and they want to do a heart bypass. I wanted to wait and think about the matter and came home. I am scheduled to see a heart surgeon on September 11th. I first told the cardiologist I just wanted to deal with this medically and he gave me some new meds. But as I think more about it, the wiser decisions is probably to go ahead with it as a heart attack could cause some real damage. I am concerned about this type of surgery, as I know they have to put you on a ventilator, etc. and I hate those things. It is the last thing I ever want to be kept on as I have seen so many lingering on them. I’d rather go home and be with the Lord and have so indicated in a “living will.” Your prayers in this regard will be greatly appreciated.
MURDER IN THE FAMILY – I don’t know how many of you may have seen the Fox News Special a couple weeks ago about “honor killings” but it was quite an eye opener. There are some 5,000 wives or daughters killed each year by Muslims in so called “honor killings.” They may be done for several reasons such as the dishonor associated with a divorce; a daughter dating an unbeliever; refusals to be a party to an arranged marriage; or women working. The report also told of two sisters being murdered by their Muslim father. Some 50,000 cases around the world keep women cautious. The United Nation reports thousands of such cases each year. Information was also given that one fourth of all Muslims in America don’t believe that American ways should be practiced. I find it difficult to understand why any American woman would convert to the Muslim religion knowing these facts when you consider the male subordination of women. Of course Islam denies having anything to do with honor killings but the fact that these honor killings are done by Muslims certainly raises serious questions to my mind. My, how thankful Christians should be for a loving God that calls for spiritual equality for men and women alike.
RICK WARREN’S SADDLEBACK CHURCH – The discussion this Saturday evening conducted in the church with Rick Warren questioning Barack Obama and John McCain gave me a far better view of McCain than I have had up to this point. McCain has said little about his faith up to this point and I have wondered (and doubted) if he is a Christian. However, this forum did reveal him as a Christian and a member of a Baptist Church in Arizona, something I had not known previously. McCain came across clearly and I believe approvingly to a far greater degree to the audience than did Obama. I do have questions about a church being involved to this degree in the political process but it was done quite well. Giving an equal voice to the same questions to each candidate separately was a unique and different approach than what we normally see and it did give us a better opportunity to evaluate both candidates. It was two hours well spent listening to their answers, asked in a far different manner than what we usually see from the media. I hope you were able to see and hear it.
THE PSALMS ALWAYS A COMFORT – Over the years I have always found the Psalms a comfort in times of heartache and the need to find strength in times of trial. I found Psalm 94 helpful in recent days. Verse 14 says, “For the LORD will not cast off his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance.” Even though we know the verses were originally applied to the people of Israel, they are still applicable to His present day people, the followers of Christ. Verse 17 says, “Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost [soon] dwelt in silence.” Verse 19 says, “ In the multitude of my thoughts within me the comforts delight my soul.” And then Verse 22, “But the LORD is my defense [high tower]; and my God is the rock of my refuge.” The Psalms always bring comfort and help in the time of need and they never grow old or out-dated. They are worth reading time and time again. I am presently rereading through my old Dickson Bible that I bought when I was sixteen years old and have kept it as a family Bible that bracketed helpful words as you note in the verses quoted. My first wife filled in the family tree pages for me, which helps me with some family birthdays, etc. Sadly, I have not kept them up. Anyway, whether you read the old KJV, the new KJV or some other modern translation, they are always a blessing. I would encourage you to read them often.
MURDER IN THE FAMILY – I don’t know how many of you may have seen the Fox News Special a couple weeks ago about “honor killings” but it was quite an eye opener. There are some 5,000 wives or daughters killed each year by Muslims in so called “honor killings.” They may be done for several reasons such as the dishonor associated with a divorce; a daughter dating an unbeliever; refusals to be a party to an arranged marriage; or women working. The report also told of two sisters being murdered by their Muslim father. Some 50,000 cases around the world keep women cautious. The United Nation reports thousands of such cases each year. Information was also given that one fourth of all Muslims in America don’t believe that American ways should be practiced. I find it difficult to understand why any American woman would convert to the Muslim religion knowing these facts when you consider the male subordination of women. Of course Islam denies having anything to do with honor killings but the fact that these honor killings are done by Muslims certainly raises serious questions to my mind. My, how thankful Christians should be for a loving God that calls for spiritual equality for men and women alike.
RICK WARREN’S SADDLEBACK CHURCH – The discussion this Saturday evening conducted in the church with Rick Warren questioning Barack Obama and John McCain gave me a far better view of McCain than I have had up to this point. McCain has said little about his faith up to this point and I have wondered (and doubted) if he is a Christian. However, this forum did reveal him as a Christian and a member of a Baptist Church in Arizona, something I had not known previously. McCain came across clearly and I believe approvingly to a far greater degree to the audience than did Obama. I do have questions about a church being involved to this degree in the political process but it was done quite well. Giving an equal voice to the same questions to each candidate separately was a unique and different approach than what we normally see and it did give us a better opportunity to evaluate both candidates. It was two hours well spent listening to their answers, asked in a far different manner than what we usually see from the media. I hope you were able to see and hear it.
THE PSALMS ALWAYS A COMFORT – Over the years I have always found the Psalms a comfort in times of heartache and the need to find strength in times of trial. I found Psalm 94 helpful in recent days. Verse 14 says, “For the LORD will not cast off his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance.” Even though we know the verses were originally applied to the people of Israel, they are still applicable to His present day people, the followers of Christ. Verse 17 says, “Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost [soon] dwelt in silence.” Verse 19 says, “ In the multitude of my thoughts within me the comforts delight my soul.” And then Verse 22, “But the LORD is my defense [high tower]; and my God is the rock of my refuge.” The Psalms always bring comfort and help in the time of need and they never grow old or out-dated. They are worth reading time and time again. I am presently rereading through my old Dickson Bible that I bought when I was sixteen years old and have kept it as a family Bible that bracketed helpful words as you note in the verses quoted. My first wife filled in the family tree pages for me, which helps me with some family birthdays, etc. Sadly, I have not kept them up. Anyway, whether you read the old KJV, the new KJV or some other modern translation, they are always a blessing. I would encourage you to read them often.
July 2008 #4
MY FIRST CHURCH PLANT – A friend, asked a question as to how we happened to start Mirror Lake Baptist Church which she was a part of. Wow, this takes my memory back a long way. /
Back in those days, the fifties, I was praying for an opportunity to start a church. I knew that without having been able to go to Bible College I'd never find a place in an established church and I believed God would open doors to me if I could start a church. / I had called Dr. Powell in Tacoma, Washington about such opportunities. He was just leaving by train for a GARBC meeting back east and asked me to go to the Auburn train station and he would get off briefly when the train stopped there and give me some information. I went to the train station and he gave me the names of a Scott Janikula and Vaughn Nelson. They, along with Malcomb Lange had looked over the Federal Way area and had rented a storefront on faith, trusting they could find someone to help start a church there. / I had trouble running them down, but finally managed to. I shared my burden with them and they each had me speak in their churches to get to know me. Having done so, they turned over the keys to the storefront and told me to go to work. Each church gave a little help to us to pay the rent on the building. I worked swing shift for Boeings at the time and took my off hours and days off to start visiting in the area, handing out advertisements, and scheduling regular services. / The GARBC camp in the area loaned me some rough board benches to use to start with. One church gave us a pulpit, and another an oil stove to heat the place. Some friends helped Kathy and I paint the two rooms of the storefront. Needing a pianist Dr. Powell had given me the name Jeanne Burke, now Jacobson, as a possible pianist. She was reluctant, not knowing who I was, but finally agreed to play temporarily. She stayed with us the whole five years we were there and beyond. She and her mother were the first to become a part of starting the church, purchasing the land and putting up the first building. I had the joy of baptizing her mother and they knew all the woe’s and weal’s of the work, putting up with my inexperience. / God blessed and in 1956 the church called for an ordination council and the area pastors came and questioned me and recommended my ordination and I had my start into all these fifty plus years of ministry. Now you have a little history of my first church plant.
BIBLE COLLEGE OR NOT – Some may question how or even my right to start and pastor a church without formal training. I use to be troubled when people asked where I went to Bible College, knowing I had not had that opportunity. After all these years of experience and ministry it is no longer troubling to me. I have always been an ardent reader and have many of the same books that were required of my children when they attended Bible College. I had a job at Boeing Aircraft in Renton and Seattle, Washington that afforded me opportunity to read theological books during lunch and coffee breaks. Further, one of the jobs I had was operating huge presses that often sealed in parts requiring lengths of time where I simply had to see that pressure and heat was maintained. The foreman and others did not object to my reading as long as I didn’t spend time with others and appearing to be wasting company time. As long as they knew I was watching to see that time and conditions were proper they were fine with it. It was the type of work where I got a lot of extra reading done besides what I did off the job. I also attribute much credit to pastors who taught me, being sound in the Word. Then too, I would remind you of great men like Moody and others that did not have a formal education, but were successfully in ministry and starting educational institutions. Dr. Ketchum, one of the founders of the GARBC, only had a grade school education but he was a powerful preacher, standing strong for Biblical separation. I am not laying claim to being a Moody or a Ketchum, far from it. I am just saying, that through the centuries God has often used common people to do His work. Having said that, I have often felt inadequate and I always felt that I could have done a far better job with a formal education, though it was not the way God led me. There were many such men in years gone by but we have come to a time where most churches are looking for pastors with doctorates and would never consider a person like myself. One beneficial factor I’d add to my circumstances. Too often men enter the ministry with out a background of experience with average working people and having the ability to understand the life of people who dig ditches, labor in factories or clerk in stores. God takes us where He finds us and directs through life those who are committed to His service and not every path or circumstance is the same.
MORE PET PEEVES – Having at a young age worked myself up from a stock boy to managing a chain variety store, I get a little upset or dumbfounded by experiences I have when shopping. Recently I was at Wal-Marts buying some packs of Glucerna for Betty. I usually purchase six to eight packs and they only had two. So, I asked the lady in the pharmacy (the area where these are stocked) if they might have more in the back storeroom. She quickly informed me that the stocker had stocked the area earlier in the day and had now gone home so there was nothing they could do. When I worked in stores, I would go back and see if there was more in back and bring them out, wanting to please the customer and increase our sales. So, I went across the street to Meijers, their competitors, where I used to buy this product but they have raised their prices and I quit buying from them. I picked up four more packs, willing to pay the extra to save an extra trip another day. When I got to the checkout I showed the girl the sales slip from across the street and asked them if they meet their competitors prices. She didn’t know what to say and asked, “Would you like me to call the floor manager?” I said, “Yes.” I then explained, “I always use to purchase these here but you’ve raised your prices too much. Will you meet your competitors price?” Her answer, “We only match advertised prices.” So, I paid my money to save a trip and made a decision that this was my last time to shop at that store. Sometimes while shopping I’ll ask a clerk where I can find an item to save time and a lot of running all over the store. Some will either look stupid of shrug their shoulders and say, “I don’t know” and go on their way. Wise merchants will train their help to say, “I don’t know but I will find out for you.” Or, they will actually lead you to the place where you will find your article. I know you have been through these same experiences and shared the same frustrations.
PERSONAL ITEMS FOR PRAYER – I have been able to get help for the vertigo. There are many types but mine is “benign positional vertigo” which is very simply dealt with. No medicines, I’d been given some that only made me sleepy but didn’t help. The doctor checked me out and then showed me a procedure I could use myself to relocate the crystals in the ear fluid to correct the problem. It seems to have helped. / The heart doctor’s reports were not so simple and the tests indicate some blockage and they will be scheduling a catherization. Maybe stints and angioplasty, depending on what they find. I have told them I don’t want to wake up from the procedure and find that they have decided to do bypass surgery. I really don’t think that is needed but I guess we will see. / I have scheduled Betty to see her GP on Monday because of the difficulties she is having with stomach pain and is so easily winded when she tries to do some thing. / I really don’t like to sound like I am always complaining about physical things but we do appreciate your prayers and God’s enablements.
RESURRECTION – The youth pastor brought a welcome and interesting sermon Sunday while the senior pastor was on vacation. It was a practical message dealing with the resurrection and something we all need reminding of from time to time. In reality a large portion and basis of our faith in Christ includes this wonderful Biblical doctrine. Basically his premise dealt with “Physical Resurrection.” My only concern with such a message is that we also need to realize that physical death and burial and eventual resurrection of a physical body, is that God has also provided an interim condition. For young Christians who don’t know their Scriptures, they might be led into a false doctrine if gotten hold of by the wrong people who teach “soul sleep.” The emphasis of the message dealt with the numerous verses that use the term “asleep” to describe the condition of believers who have passed away. Seventh Day Adventists and others teach that the “soul and spirit” sleep in the grave with body until the resurrection and judgment. Paul taught, “Absent from the body and present with the Lord.” Only the physical body sleeps in the grave, not the soul and spirit. This is not a criticism of a good message, just an addition to it.
Back in those days, the fifties, I was praying for an opportunity to start a church. I knew that without having been able to go to Bible College I'd never find a place in an established church and I believed God would open doors to me if I could start a church. / I had called Dr. Powell in Tacoma, Washington about such opportunities. He was just leaving by train for a GARBC meeting back east and asked me to go to the Auburn train station and he would get off briefly when the train stopped there and give me some information. I went to the train station and he gave me the names of a Scott Janikula and Vaughn Nelson. They, along with Malcomb Lange had looked over the Federal Way area and had rented a storefront on faith, trusting they could find someone to help start a church there. / I had trouble running them down, but finally managed to. I shared my burden with them and they each had me speak in their churches to get to know me. Having done so, they turned over the keys to the storefront and told me to go to work. Each church gave a little help to us to pay the rent on the building. I worked swing shift for Boeings at the time and took my off hours and days off to start visiting in the area, handing out advertisements, and scheduling regular services. / The GARBC camp in the area loaned me some rough board benches to use to start with. One church gave us a pulpit, and another an oil stove to heat the place. Some friends helped Kathy and I paint the two rooms of the storefront. Needing a pianist Dr. Powell had given me the name Jeanne Burke, now Jacobson, as a possible pianist. She was reluctant, not knowing who I was, but finally agreed to play temporarily. She stayed with us the whole five years we were there and beyond. She and her mother were the first to become a part of starting the church, purchasing the land and putting up the first building. I had the joy of baptizing her mother and they knew all the woe’s and weal’s of the work, putting up with my inexperience. / God blessed and in 1956 the church called for an ordination council and the area pastors came and questioned me and recommended my ordination and I had my start into all these fifty plus years of ministry. Now you have a little history of my first church plant.
BIBLE COLLEGE OR NOT – Some may question how or even my right to start and pastor a church without formal training. I use to be troubled when people asked where I went to Bible College, knowing I had not had that opportunity. After all these years of experience and ministry it is no longer troubling to me. I have always been an ardent reader and have many of the same books that were required of my children when they attended Bible College. I had a job at Boeing Aircraft in Renton and Seattle, Washington that afforded me opportunity to read theological books during lunch and coffee breaks. Further, one of the jobs I had was operating huge presses that often sealed in parts requiring lengths of time where I simply had to see that pressure and heat was maintained. The foreman and others did not object to my reading as long as I didn’t spend time with others and appearing to be wasting company time. As long as they knew I was watching to see that time and conditions were proper they were fine with it. It was the type of work where I got a lot of extra reading done besides what I did off the job. I also attribute much credit to pastors who taught me, being sound in the Word. Then too, I would remind you of great men like Moody and others that did not have a formal education, but were successfully in ministry and starting educational institutions. Dr. Ketchum, one of the founders of the GARBC, only had a grade school education but he was a powerful preacher, standing strong for Biblical separation. I am not laying claim to being a Moody or a Ketchum, far from it. I am just saying, that through the centuries God has often used common people to do His work. Having said that, I have often felt inadequate and I always felt that I could have done a far better job with a formal education, though it was not the way God led me. There were many such men in years gone by but we have come to a time where most churches are looking for pastors with doctorates and would never consider a person like myself. One beneficial factor I’d add to my circumstances. Too often men enter the ministry with out a background of experience with average working people and having the ability to understand the life of people who dig ditches, labor in factories or clerk in stores. God takes us where He finds us and directs through life those who are committed to His service and not every path or circumstance is the same.
MORE PET PEEVES – Having at a young age worked myself up from a stock boy to managing a chain variety store, I get a little upset or dumbfounded by experiences I have when shopping. Recently I was at Wal-Marts buying some packs of Glucerna for Betty. I usually purchase six to eight packs and they only had two. So, I asked the lady in the pharmacy (the area where these are stocked) if they might have more in the back storeroom. She quickly informed me that the stocker had stocked the area earlier in the day and had now gone home so there was nothing they could do. When I worked in stores, I would go back and see if there was more in back and bring them out, wanting to please the customer and increase our sales. So, I went across the street to Meijers, their competitors, where I used to buy this product but they have raised their prices and I quit buying from them. I picked up four more packs, willing to pay the extra to save an extra trip another day. When I got to the checkout I showed the girl the sales slip from across the street and asked them if they meet their competitors prices. She didn’t know what to say and asked, “Would you like me to call the floor manager?” I said, “Yes.” I then explained, “I always use to purchase these here but you’ve raised your prices too much. Will you meet your competitors price?” Her answer, “We only match advertised prices.” So, I paid my money to save a trip and made a decision that this was my last time to shop at that store. Sometimes while shopping I’ll ask a clerk where I can find an item to save time and a lot of running all over the store. Some will either look stupid of shrug their shoulders and say, “I don’t know” and go on their way. Wise merchants will train their help to say, “I don’t know but I will find out for you.” Or, they will actually lead you to the place where you will find your article. I know you have been through these same experiences and shared the same frustrations.
PERSONAL ITEMS FOR PRAYER – I have been able to get help for the vertigo. There are many types but mine is “benign positional vertigo” which is very simply dealt with. No medicines, I’d been given some that only made me sleepy but didn’t help. The doctor checked me out and then showed me a procedure I could use myself to relocate the crystals in the ear fluid to correct the problem. It seems to have helped. / The heart doctor’s reports were not so simple and the tests indicate some blockage and they will be scheduling a catherization. Maybe stints and angioplasty, depending on what they find. I have told them I don’t want to wake up from the procedure and find that they have decided to do bypass surgery. I really don’t think that is needed but I guess we will see. / I have scheduled Betty to see her GP on Monday because of the difficulties she is having with stomach pain and is so easily winded when she tries to do some thing. / I really don’t like to sound like I am always complaining about physical things but we do appreciate your prayers and God’s enablements.
RESURRECTION – The youth pastor brought a welcome and interesting sermon Sunday while the senior pastor was on vacation. It was a practical message dealing with the resurrection and something we all need reminding of from time to time. In reality a large portion and basis of our faith in Christ includes this wonderful Biblical doctrine. Basically his premise dealt with “Physical Resurrection.” My only concern with such a message is that we also need to realize that physical death and burial and eventual resurrection of a physical body, is that God has also provided an interim condition. For young Christians who don’t know their Scriptures, they might be led into a false doctrine if gotten hold of by the wrong people who teach “soul sleep.” The emphasis of the message dealt with the numerous verses that use the term “asleep” to describe the condition of believers who have passed away. Seventh Day Adventists and others teach that the “soul and spirit” sleep in the grave with body until the resurrection and judgment. Paul taught, “Absent from the body and present with the Lord.” Only the physical body sleeps in the grave, not the soul and spirit. This is not a criticism of a good message, just an addition to it.
July 2008 #3
SPECIAL EVENT FOR BETTY – Betty’s family from Kentucky along with those here in Ohio came for a weekend cookout. The girls did all the planning and the work to provide something Betty has wanted to do for a long time and it was finally accomplished. Some came early and had to leave before the meal and others remained to eat and visit. I think the total attending was about 28. Daughter Debbie, granddaughter Erin and grandson Nathan stayed until Monday. Betty was so excited she couldn’t sleep Friday night and went to bed Saturday night exhausted but blessed.
POLITICAL COMEDIANS – Comedians have always made fun of politicians but there seems to be some disparity as to whether McCain or Obama gets the most attention. The comedians readily joke about McCain’s age. It seems the fear of receiving criticism over the race issue causes them to go much easier on Obama. An example of jokes relating to Obama bring “Messiah” type jokes and one that should really offend Christians is when they refer to Obama as “Jesus Christ but with a better jump shot.” I find it despicable and highly objectionable (offensive) when these types of references are made. Such disrespect for our Savior and to make such associations with a politician of any party or race only speaks to how low today’s comedians have become. Sad, sad day!
OBAMA’S EUOPEAN TRIP – Following Obama’s political trip to Iraq and Afghanistan he included stops in Israel, Germany and elsewhere. I had the opportunity to listen to his Berlin speech to some 200,000 people, the largest crowd he has drawn to date. What came through to me was his Globalist and Internationalist position. His theme related to “tearing down walls between Christians, Jews and Muslims,” as well as between other various national situations. He also made a comment that “the vast majority of Muslims are peace loving.” One statement he made was, “People of the world, this is our time.” He also made the comment that “Palestinians and Israel both seek peace,” but I understand that some comments made while there didn’t set well in Israel knowing that the Palestinians want a total destruction of Israel. The thought that came repeatedly to my mind as I listened, was that should this man become our next president, he would surely lead us much closer to the One World Program that the antichrist will direct during the Tribulation. Though he professes to be a Christian, I am confident that he has no real understanding of the Scriptures and how his position will feed into the prophetic revelations of the Bible. He is a tremendous and articulate speaker who is able to say much without revealing much. Having given his position on Iraq and Afghanistan before taking his trip only verifies his mind was made up before the supposed investigative trip was taken.
HOME MISSIONARIES & PASTORS – Dr. Charles Woods recently included some ideas he felt would be good guidelines for a church-planting missionary if he been one. He was right on with his thoughts but it is not my intention to include his list here but it did bring to mind the many times over the years when pastors told me that they wouldn't’t know how to go about starting a church. By the same token I could return the thought, “I wouldn't’t know how to pastor a large church.” Regular church pastors often misunderstood the church planters ministry, even those who sat on mission boards. Home missionaries pastor small churches that they are called to plant or establish and in many ways it is different from pastoring an older and larger church. In reality, I started out my first church in my own ignorance, learning as I went along, not being with or under any mission agency. A major difference that comes to mind is entering the endeavor with out the means in hand for a functioning church, where a pastor is called to a work with a salary, a building and people in place. Too many home missionaries are handicapped by not having their full personal support. Nor do they have the funds needed to purchase property, a building and equipment to run it but that comes along as the work is developed. Thankfully, mission agencies today are doing better in holding the line and requiring that home missionaries obtain their support before taking on the task. Sometimes some individual missionaries will take up the task on their own, thinking they can always get a job to support themselves. Often it is the wife working to support her husbands ministry. It can be done but it is a hindrance to their task and a very slow process that all too often fails or struggles for years.
POLITICAL COMEDIANS – Comedians have always made fun of politicians but there seems to be some disparity as to whether McCain or Obama gets the most attention. The comedians readily joke about McCain’s age. It seems the fear of receiving criticism over the race issue causes them to go much easier on Obama. An example of jokes relating to Obama bring “Messiah” type jokes and one that should really offend Christians is when they refer to Obama as “Jesus Christ but with a better jump shot.” I find it despicable and highly objectionable (offensive) when these types of references are made. Such disrespect for our Savior and to make such associations with a politician of any party or race only speaks to how low today’s comedians have become. Sad, sad day!
OBAMA’S EUOPEAN TRIP – Following Obama’s political trip to Iraq and Afghanistan he included stops in Israel, Germany and elsewhere. I had the opportunity to listen to his Berlin speech to some 200,000 people, the largest crowd he has drawn to date. What came through to me was his Globalist and Internationalist position. His theme related to “tearing down walls between Christians, Jews and Muslims,” as well as between other various national situations. He also made a comment that “the vast majority of Muslims are peace loving.” One statement he made was, “People of the world, this is our time.” He also made the comment that “Palestinians and Israel both seek peace,” but I understand that some comments made while there didn’t set well in Israel knowing that the Palestinians want a total destruction of Israel. The thought that came repeatedly to my mind as I listened, was that should this man become our next president, he would surely lead us much closer to the One World Program that the antichrist will direct during the Tribulation. Though he professes to be a Christian, I am confident that he has no real understanding of the Scriptures and how his position will feed into the prophetic revelations of the Bible. He is a tremendous and articulate speaker who is able to say much without revealing much. Having given his position on Iraq and Afghanistan before taking his trip only verifies his mind was made up before the supposed investigative trip was taken.
HOME MISSIONARIES & PASTORS – Dr. Charles Woods recently included some ideas he felt would be good guidelines for a church-planting missionary if he been one. He was right on with his thoughts but it is not my intention to include his list here but it did bring to mind the many times over the years when pastors told me that they wouldn't’t know how to go about starting a church. By the same token I could return the thought, “I wouldn't’t know how to pastor a large church.” Regular church pastors often misunderstood the church planters ministry, even those who sat on mission boards. Home missionaries pastor small churches that they are called to plant or establish and in many ways it is different from pastoring an older and larger church. In reality, I started out my first church in my own ignorance, learning as I went along, not being with or under any mission agency. A major difference that comes to mind is entering the endeavor with out the means in hand for a functioning church, where a pastor is called to a work with a salary, a building and people in place. Too many home missionaries are handicapped by not having their full personal support. Nor do they have the funds needed to purchase property, a building and equipment to run it but that comes along as the work is developed. Thankfully, mission agencies today are doing better in holding the line and requiring that home missionaries obtain their support before taking on the task. Sometimes some individual missionaries will take up the task on their own, thinking they can always get a job to support themselves. Often it is the wife working to support her husbands ministry. It can be done but it is a hindrance to their task and a very slow process that all too often fails or struggles for years.
July 2008 #2
333 HALF EVIL – This is a bumper sticker I saw today that gave cause to think a bit and I finally realized this was a take off on the 666 mark of the beast that people will have to have on their forehead or hand in order to buy or sell. It is difficult for my mind to comprehend someone’s ignorance regarding sin and evil. The individual who came up with this bumper sticker for a novel idea, and then those who paste them on their car bumpers and windows have no real recognition of their status or their standings before Almighty God. The Bible is so clear that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God,” how then can an individual arrive at a conclusion that they are only “half evil?” Or how could they imagine only taking on half the consequences of the antichrist’s requirements during the tribulation. This sticker only reveals the complete ignorance of the lost in this day and age. They need all of the Saviors mercy and forgiveness resulting from their confession of sin and acceptance of Jesus Christ. If they wake up to find themselves left behind at the rapture and caught up in the dealings of the world wide ruler or antichrist of the tribulation, they won’t be able to take half the mark to buy and sell. They will actually be selling their souls to the devil and eventually end up in an eternal hell. Satan is certainly busy leading people down the path of destruction while thinking they are being funny!
HOT AND SOUR SOUP – I’ve liked Chinese food since a boy when I seldom had an opportunity to enjoy it. I enjoy hot and sour soup and often stop to get some to take home for my lunch and they always give me a fortune cookie with it. The fortune I received this time was, “It is up to you to create your own adventures today!” I liked that one, realizing that as a Christian I can make life an adventure that can be personally enjoyable as well as bring glory to our God and Savior. Have you ever thought about witnessing as an adventure? I think we should. It seems so hard to make ourselves do it. Yet, when we get up our courage to do so, some great joy and blessings can come our way, opening doors to new friendships with people while pointing them to Christ. I’ve never come away from a call in a home after having an opportunity to tell them about my Savior, especially when they make that all important decision, but what I traveled home with joy in my heart and singing praises to God. What an adventure. Have you had one recently? Little by little I am getting to know more about the young Chinese girl who usually waits on me, knowing what I am coming for, even before I ask. I believe the adventure is developing when I will be able to share the gospel with her in word or a book. I am having the same adventure with my young and very worldly barber. I keep witnessing to him and taking literature to him and hopefully one of these days he will yet come to Christ. BUILD AN ADVENTURE! Some people use their vacation time to visit and assist missionaries at home or abroad. Some use vacation time to assist in V.B.S. Retirees often come along a missionary to assist them for a period of time, sometimes several months. Some churches send a crew of men out to help a missionary with a building project. Or, create an adventure of ministry of your own. MAKE AN ADVENTURE FOR BOTH PERSONAL JOY AND TO GLORIFY THE LORD!
ISRAEL AND IRAN – Here is a serious prayer concern, raising questions about how close we may be to the Rapture and Tribulation along with so many other things going on today.. This is something you won’t hear much about from what Rush calls the “Drive-by Media.” Human Events ran an article by W. Thomas Smith, Jr. titled “Will Israel Strike Iran?” It is a several page article and I can’t put it all in my “Musings” but I’ll give you a very condensed form. Basically it tells of plans for Israel to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities before the end of the year while President Bush is still in office due to questions about whether a new president would continue to stand behind Israel in the need to stop Iran’s nuclear development. It would be a strike taking several days that could possibly draw in the United States. A Lt. General Thomas G. McInerneney (U.S. Air Force, ret.) saying, “To hit the number of targets the Israelis need to hit with their force structure would require several days,” “If they did it in a night – with, say 100 airplanes – they’d probably inflict significant damage to Bushehr and other facilities, but it would be more difficult to hit the deep bunkers at Natanz.” / “Nevertheless, a multi-phased campaign lasting several days is what the current plan looks like according to the analysts and insiders.” / “If the Iranians -- in retaliation for strikes against their facilities -- makes a move against American forces in the region, or if they try to shut down the Strait of Hormuz (the strategically vital waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman) as they have threatened to do, U. S. forces will “unleash hell and more than complement what the Israelis are doing,” says Vallely. / Anyway, the lengthy article is very detailed and interesting. Also frightening. You could probably get the article by finding Human Events on the inter-net and naming the article. We can only imagine how terrible this could turn out. We need to be much in prayer about this matter as well as making sure of our own status in the Lord with the rapture before us, and the effect of the tribulation on the world. As I have said so many times, “Keep looking up!”
MARIJUNA & HEART TRANSPLANTS – Marijuana users are complaining about transplants not being available to them. Nor should they be. Those receiving hearts must sign papers agreeing not to use any form of tobacco and other matters before the precious & scarce hearts are given. I’ve had two grandsons to receive transplant & I have read the requirements.
HOT AND SOUR SOUP – I’ve liked Chinese food since a boy when I seldom had an opportunity to enjoy it. I enjoy hot and sour soup and often stop to get some to take home for my lunch and they always give me a fortune cookie with it. The fortune I received this time was, “It is up to you to create your own adventures today!” I liked that one, realizing that as a Christian I can make life an adventure that can be personally enjoyable as well as bring glory to our God and Savior. Have you ever thought about witnessing as an adventure? I think we should. It seems so hard to make ourselves do it. Yet, when we get up our courage to do so, some great joy and blessings can come our way, opening doors to new friendships with people while pointing them to Christ. I’ve never come away from a call in a home after having an opportunity to tell them about my Savior, especially when they make that all important decision, but what I traveled home with joy in my heart and singing praises to God. What an adventure. Have you had one recently? Little by little I am getting to know more about the young Chinese girl who usually waits on me, knowing what I am coming for, even before I ask. I believe the adventure is developing when I will be able to share the gospel with her in word or a book. I am having the same adventure with my young and very worldly barber. I keep witnessing to him and taking literature to him and hopefully one of these days he will yet come to Christ. BUILD AN ADVENTURE! Some people use their vacation time to visit and assist missionaries at home or abroad. Some use vacation time to assist in V.B.S. Retirees often come along a missionary to assist them for a period of time, sometimes several months. Some churches send a crew of men out to help a missionary with a building project. Or, create an adventure of ministry of your own. MAKE AN ADVENTURE FOR BOTH PERSONAL JOY AND TO GLORIFY THE LORD!
ISRAEL AND IRAN – Here is a serious prayer concern, raising questions about how close we may be to the Rapture and Tribulation along with so many other things going on today.. This is something you won’t hear much about from what Rush calls the “Drive-by Media.” Human Events ran an article by W. Thomas Smith, Jr. titled “Will Israel Strike Iran?” It is a several page article and I can’t put it all in my “Musings” but I’ll give you a very condensed form. Basically it tells of plans for Israel to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities before the end of the year while President Bush is still in office due to questions about whether a new president would continue to stand behind Israel in the need to stop Iran’s nuclear development. It would be a strike taking several days that could possibly draw in the United States. A Lt. General Thomas G. McInerneney (U.S. Air Force, ret.) saying, “To hit the number of targets the Israelis need to hit with their force structure would require several days,” “If they did it in a night – with, say 100 airplanes – they’d probably inflict significant damage to Bushehr and other facilities, but it would be more difficult to hit the deep bunkers at Natanz.” / “Nevertheless, a multi-phased campaign lasting several days is what the current plan looks like according to the analysts and insiders.” / “If the Iranians -- in retaliation for strikes against their facilities -- makes a move against American forces in the region, or if they try to shut down the Strait of Hormuz (the strategically vital waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman) as they have threatened to do, U. S. forces will “unleash hell and more than complement what the Israelis are doing,” says Vallely. / Anyway, the lengthy article is very detailed and interesting. Also frightening. You could probably get the article by finding Human Events on the inter-net and naming the article. We can only imagine how terrible this could turn out. We need to be much in prayer about this matter as well as making sure of our own status in the Lord with the rapture before us, and the effect of the tribulation on the world. As I have said so many times, “Keep looking up!”
MARIJUNA & HEART TRANSPLANTS – Marijuana users are complaining about transplants not being available to them. Nor should they be. Those receiving hearts must sign papers agreeing not to use any form of tobacco and other matters before the precious & scarce hearts are given. I’ve had two grandsons to receive transplant & I have read the requirements.
July 2008 #1
BELATED “MUSINGS – I usually get these out each week but it has been nearly two weeks since I have written. I have not been feeling well and going to my internist for over twenty years he has taken and EKG and had me wear a monitor for a couple of weeks because of irregular heart beats. He has now sent me to a cardiologist and I spent a day getting a couple “mugga tests” and a chemical stress test. He suggested a catherization which I have rejected, at least until I have completed other testing to properly satisfy my mind that it is necessary and not just another dangerous routine that has become a major money maker for hospitals and doctors. I am still due to get an echocardiogram next the 10th. Adding to this on Monday three weeks ago I woke up with vertigo and the recommended medication has only added to my discomforted with drowsiness and sleeping without correcting the problem. I am being referred to another doctor on the 14th, a long time to continue with this aggravating spinning problem. I took Betty to the oncologist for another C-scan and bone-scan that we will get a report on at her next treatment and chemo treatment this Friday.. Our lives have become filled with doctor’s appointments that have been the case for several years now. Getting old is not for weaklings as many of you already know.
POLITICS BECOMES AN INCREASING CONCERN – Obama’s polished rhetoric and good looks are drawing multitudes to his promises of “change” (almost in a messianic setting, or should I use another term?) While promising multiplied billions of dollars in additional taxes that people don’t seem to realize or recognize. At the same time I seriously question McCain’s ability to make the case for conservatism with his passivity. Hopefully he will choose a Vice President that will stir him to truly enjoin the political battle. Add to the mix the Supreme Court making new laws regarding “habeas corpus” for wartime terrorist, something that has never been done in the entire history of our nations war experience. The Court did this in the face of contrary regulations that both sides of the aisle of Congress were agreed upon. I fear for our Constitutional Government that has stood the test of time that was based upon our founding fathers spiritual moorings.
A BIBLICAL SPIRITUAL CONSIDERATION – I was rereading Psalm 76 recently and was impressed once again with God’s power and how he will eventually judge and break the wicked. We become fearful of the injustices of the world around us and the potential of the breakdown of our own national moorings by the craziness of politicians more interested in their own agendas than of the needs of those whom they represent. We hear the reports of the world’s condition and the building economic breakdowns while wondering how Christians and common people are going to be able to survive. Then we read of God, “He broke the arrows of the bow, the shield and sword of battle, (vs. 3); “At your rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse were cast into a dead sleep. You, Yourself, are to be feared; and who may stand in your presence when once you are angry You caused judgment to be heard from heaven,” etc. (vss. 6-8): ”He shall cut off the spirit of princes; He is awesome to the kings of the earth.” (vs. 12) Nothing goes unseen; nothing is hidden from our God and the things He is allowing is leading to an end exactly as he has prophetically declared it. Keep the faith and don’t let your hearts falter!
INDEPENDENCE DAY – Today is the 4th of July and my thoughts go back to my boyhood in Baker, Oregon, now called Baker City as it probably was in still earlier days. The 4th was always rodeo time and the crowds came to our town in Eastern Oregon. The men wore their cowboy boots and hats. Their silk shirts were bright red, white of blue and many of the women dressed similarly. All the kids had their firecrackers to blow up tin cans and jars. To the south of town was a cliff that had a big fireworks display at dark and the crowds gathered in the fields below to see the bright fireworks and images of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Those were exciting times and I wonder if they still have their rodeo and fireworks display on the cliff of the 4th of July. As time change I hope that our nation never loses it’s strong patriotism that seems to me to be eroding away.
PLACES I’VE LIVED – I raised the question awhile back, wondering how many different houses I’ve lived in over the years. – I used to be able to point to the house in Baker where I was delivered at home but there is a big blank of information where I lived as an infant and toddler after that. I have a picture of being held by my father and my mother standing beside us but I have been told little of those early years before they were divorced. I remember living with my mother in a San Francisco apartment as a young boy and later in a house where we lived with my first stepfather who was in the Coast Guard. My grandmother visited and took me to a park so I’d be out of the way while he as at home. This only gives me memory of three houses I lived in up to that time. Later I lived in a home for children where many of the children slept of cots in a large room. There was a playground outside where I fell off a slide when my grandparents came to visit me. The orphanage or children’s home, use to march us to a day school during the day. My grandparents eventually took me to their home in Carmel, California where my grandfather managed a Sprouse Reitz Variety store. My great grandmother took care of me in the daytime since my grandmother worked at the store as well. They eventually bought their own small variety store in Gold Beach, Oregon and I live there with them until they started another small variety store in Brookings, Oregon for my mother to have an income. I then lived with her in the back of the store. This was where my mother met her third husband and I was sent to live with my father and stepmother in Baker Oregon. I remember living in two different homes there with them and for a time with an uncle and aunt who thought they could better handle me than my stepmother. This lists the first 9 places I can recall living in up to the age of 9 or 10, there may have been more. There are many more places ahead. This is all information mainly for my own children’s information.
POLITICS BECOMES AN INCREASING CONCERN – Obama’s polished rhetoric and good looks are drawing multitudes to his promises of “change” (almost in a messianic setting, or should I use another term?) While promising multiplied billions of dollars in additional taxes that people don’t seem to realize or recognize. At the same time I seriously question McCain’s ability to make the case for conservatism with his passivity. Hopefully he will choose a Vice President that will stir him to truly enjoin the political battle. Add to the mix the Supreme Court making new laws regarding “habeas corpus” for wartime terrorist, something that has never been done in the entire history of our nations war experience. The Court did this in the face of contrary regulations that both sides of the aisle of Congress were agreed upon. I fear for our Constitutional Government that has stood the test of time that was based upon our founding fathers spiritual moorings.
A BIBLICAL SPIRITUAL CONSIDERATION – I was rereading Psalm 76 recently and was impressed once again with God’s power and how he will eventually judge and break the wicked. We become fearful of the injustices of the world around us and the potential of the breakdown of our own national moorings by the craziness of politicians more interested in their own agendas than of the needs of those whom they represent. We hear the reports of the world’s condition and the building economic breakdowns while wondering how Christians and common people are going to be able to survive. Then we read of God, “He broke the arrows of the bow, the shield and sword of battle, (vs. 3); “At your rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse were cast into a dead sleep. You, Yourself, are to be feared; and who may stand in your presence when once you are angry You caused judgment to be heard from heaven,” etc. (vss. 6-8): ”He shall cut off the spirit of princes; He is awesome to the kings of the earth.” (vs. 12) Nothing goes unseen; nothing is hidden from our God and the things He is allowing is leading to an end exactly as he has prophetically declared it. Keep the faith and don’t let your hearts falter!
INDEPENDENCE DAY – Today is the 4th of July and my thoughts go back to my boyhood in Baker, Oregon, now called Baker City as it probably was in still earlier days. The 4th was always rodeo time and the crowds came to our town in Eastern Oregon. The men wore their cowboy boots and hats. Their silk shirts were bright red, white of blue and many of the women dressed similarly. All the kids had their firecrackers to blow up tin cans and jars. To the south of town was a cliff that had a big fireworks display at dark and the crowds gathered in the fields below to see the bright fireworks and images of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Those were exciting times and I wonder if they still have their rodeo and fireworks display on the cliff of the 4th of July. As time change I hope that our nation never loses it’s strong patriotism that seems to me to be eroding away.
PLACES I’VE LIVED – I raised the question awhile back, wondering how many different houses I’ve lived in over the years. – I used to be able to point to the house in Baker where I was delivered at home but there is a big blank of information where I lived as an infant and toddler after that. I have a picture of being held by my father and my mother standing beside us but I have been told little of those early years before they were divorced. I remember living with my mother in a San Francisco apartment as a young boy and later in a house where we lived with my first stepfather who was in the Coast Guard. My grandmother visited and took me to a park so I’d be out of the way while he as at home. This only gives me memory of three houses I lived in up to that time. Later I lived in a home for children where many of the children slept of cots in a large room. There was a playground outside where I fell off a slide when my grandparents came to visit me. The orphanage or children’s home, use to march us to a day school during the day. My grandparents eventually took me to their home in Carmel, California where my grandfather managed a Sprouse Reitz Variety store. My great grandmother took care of me in the daytime since my grandmother worked at the store as well. They eventually bought their own small variety store in Gold Beach, Oregon and I live there with them until they started another small variety store in Brookings, Oregon for my mother to have an income. I then lived with her in the back of the store. This was where my mother met her third husband and I was sent to live with my father and stepmother in Baker Oregon. I remember living in two different homes there with them and for a time with an uncle and aunt who thought they could better handle me than my stepmother. This lists the first 9 places I can recall living in up to the age of 9 or 10, there may have been more. There are many more places ahead. This is all information mainly for my own children’s information.
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