QUILT – THANKS: I have a patchwork quilt on my bed. I got this out of a missionary cupboard some time ago. Ladies of the church had made it to help their missionaries. As I lay there in my bed I remember getting a lot things from these cupboards over the years. I even started these cupboards in churches that I had started to help other missionaries. As I lay under that quilt I got to thinking back through the years of God’s people making my ministry possible. There were love offerings, gifts for speaking in the churches and faithful monthly support, some of which continues today helping me in retirement. God’s people have been very gracious to me. A passage that comes to mind is I Timothy 6:17-19, “the living God who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold of eternal life.” You have given and shared with me and you certainly share in any fruit that has been borne. THANK YOU EVERYONE!
SALVATION: A young man that has been attending the church the past few months received Christ a couple weeks ago. I have so enjoyed visiting and sharing with him. Praise the Lord!
TAYLORS: My granddaughter Christen and family have finished their four-year term in Brazil and are home now. We have been doing some sightseeing with them this week before they start reporting to their supporting churches. Pray they will be safe in their travels and that they will regain lost support.
NASA: NASA was one of the places we went to. I’d been there years ago and I was surprised that they had a lot of kids things to play that had nothing to do with what NASA is all about. We did see something about the moon and planets. I guess the kids things draws in families.
FATHER’S DAY: Many this month are celebrating their fathers. Fathers are special people, having a great input in the lives of their children. My father was a hard working man and I never knew him to be without work, even during the Great Depression when so many were out of work. He always managed to find something to do. I remember him coming home and laying on the living room floor for an hour or so and going out to work again. Though my father had godly parents those principles never showed through in his life. Any spiritual impact in my life had to come from my grandparents on both sides. I asked my dad one day if he had ever received Christ as his Savior and he claimed to have done so when he was young but I never saw any indication of it. I will have to wait and see in glory.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Thursday, September 16, 2010
BAPTISM – I was baptized following salvation as a junior aged boy at Brookings, Oregon. I was baptized a second time with my wife when she was saved, better understanding it’s meaning. Baptism should be the first act of obedience after being saved. Sadly, many Christians put it off and such should not be the case. Baptism identifies us with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ and becomes our testimony of faith in Christ. If you profess to be a Christian you should be baptize and not put it off any longer. Through the years whenever I baptize someone I also required them to become members of the local church. It never made sense to me to be obedient in baptism and not be a member of Christ’s visible body, the church. I had people refuse baptism because I also required church membership. But half obedience didn’t make sense to me either.
SOMETHING DIFFERENT – I never imagined that my son-law would be my pastor. It is the first time in many years that I have had a pastor. He (Albert) is presently preaching an interesting series on Heaven. Did you ever think about having a job in heaven? Interesting!
GOOD NEWS CLUB – Patty will be starting this up in the school soon and I will go with her and try helping by listening to children say their verses and counsel those who respond to an invitation for salvation. It has been a long time since I have done this. Pray for boys and girls to be saved.
DOCTORING – I am getting established with new doctors, eye, heart, podiatrist and urologist. As a boy you had one doctor, now they all specialize. Yesterday I had an interesting experience as we were in the waiting room. An elderly man asked how old I was and then told me he was 98 years old. His 52 year old wife was with him. He told me he had been married 11 times and this was his 12th. He told me he had been a millionaire and lost it all on lawyers. He was an interesting character.
SOMETHING DIFFERENT – I never imagined that my son-law would be my pastor. It is the first time in many years that I have had a pastor. He (Albert) is presently preaching an interesting series on Heaven. Did you ever think about having a job in heaven? Interesting!
GOOD NEWS CLUB – Patty will be starting this up in the school soon and I will go with her and try helping by listening to children say their verses and counsel those who respond to an invitation for salvation. It has been a long time since I have done this. Pray for boys and girls to be saved.
DOCTORING – I am getting established with new doctors, eye, heart, podiatrist and urologist. As a boy you had one doctor, now they all specialize. Yesterday I had an interesting experience as we were in the waiting room. An elderly man asked how old I was and then told me he was 98 years old. His 52 year old wife was with him. He told me he had been married 11 times and this was his 12th. He told me he had been a millionaire and lost it all on lawyers. He was an interesting character.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
PREACHING – Retirement has given me time to evaluate my years as a preacher. I know there were far better preachers than I was but my heart was in it, doing it for glory of our Lord and the benefit of others. When my sons John and Gary went of to Bible College they told me they had difficulty getting use to other preachers after sitting under my preaching for so many years. John told me it was strange being taught things they had already been taught by me. That was all an encouragement to this old man’s heart.
TIME SPENT - I don’t have a lot of spare time here at Patty and Al’s. Not that I have a lot to do. Patty has a lot of running to do fixing up rental properties and I tag along. They have several rental properties preparing for future retirement and one was vacated this month and there was a lot of fixing up to do so I sit and watch, keeping her company. A family rented it last night so it wasn’t vacant long.
DIFFERENT AREA – Things are different here and I enjoy the palm trees and the flowering crepe myrtles. So many of the streets are divided by islands to separate the directions. Driving through our neighborhood there are boys playing basketball and smaller kids riding bikes. The heat doesn’t seem to slow them down. There were palms in California when I went to Western Union School years ago. I lived there for a time when I was small but I didn’t notice those things then.
BARKING DOGS – I hate barking dogs. Our neighbor has a dog that barks almost continually and it drives me nuts. You’d think it would bother them too but I never hear them getting after them. Any suggestions short of a gun??
THE MOSQUE - The plans to build a Mosque in New York is causing a lot of debate and little wonder being near ground zero where the building were destroyed by Muslims. Another slap in the face.
PRAISE THE LORD – the house has been sold. Thank you for praying. It is interesting how God works. We have been praying the Lord would sell the house and the family who bought it told Gary and Donna that they have been praying to find the right house. I’m told they are believers and will be looking for a new church. Wouldn’t it be something if they found Fellowship Baptist Church.
TIME SPENT - I don’t have a lot of spare time here at Patty and Al’s. Not that I have a lot to do. Patty has a lot of running to do fixing up rental properties and I tag along. They have several rental properties preparing for future retirement and one was vacated this month and there was a lot of fixing up to do so I sit and watch, keeping her company. A family rented it last night so it wasn’t vacant long.
DIFFERENT AREA – Things are different here and I enjoy the palm trees and the flowering crepe myrtles. So many of the streets are divided by islands to separate the directions. Driving through our neighborhood there are boys playing basketball and smaller kids riding bikes. The heat doesn’t seem to slow them down. There were palms in California when I went to Western Union School years ago. I lived there for a time when I was small but I didn’t notice those things then.
BARKING DOGS – I hate barking dogs. Our neighbor has a dog that barks almost continually and it drives me nuts. You’d think it would bother them too but I never hear them getting after them. Any suggestions short of a gun??
THE MOSQUE - The plans to build a Mosque in New York is causing a lot of debate and little wonder being near ground zero where the building were destroyed by Muslims. Another slap in the face.
PRAISE THE LORD – the house has been sold. Thank you for praying. It is interesting how God works. We have been praying the Lord would sell the house and the family who bought it told Gary and Donna that they have been praying to find the right house. I’m told they are believers and will be looking for a new church. Wouldn’t it be something if they found Fellowship Baptist Church.
Monday, August 16, 2010
STUFF – I have mentioned “stuff” before. Many Americans have more “stuff” than they know what to do with it. Driving to and from church there is a place that rents or leases Pods. Three of these would be about the size of a large tractor-trailer. These are storage bins that can be placed at your house so you can fill them with “stuff” and then they will store them for you or deliver them to your next living place. It seems to me that when you get so much “stuff” that you need a storage bin it is time to get rid of some things. I wonder what God thinks of this kind of stewardship when there are so many needy around the world.
TEACHING – A good Sunday school teacher, especially in the teen and adult classes, should learn how to draw the class into discussion. It is not enough to just lecture the class, we need to get the class thinking and participating. I thing some teachers are afraid the students might ask a question they can’t answer. This shouldn’t be a problem, just admit you don’t know but you will find an answer for next week. No one has all the answers so be honest, admit it and find an answer.
VISITATION – Recently Al, Patty and I called on a couple ladies in a rest home and we had an enjoyable time. They were so appreciative of our call. A third lady came by and joined into the conversation. There are a lot of lonely people in this world that need a friendly call. Plan to make a call on someone this week. Just imagine how much our churches would grow if we all planned to make one call a week.
GROWTH – We have a family picture on the wall with eighteen people in it. If we were to take that picture today, we would have to add twenty-one to it. Isn’t it amazing how families grow? So it is with every family and we need to pray and labor to see that each one accepts Christ as their Savior so that we may be together for all eternity. Sadly, that is not the case and there are gaps in all of our families with unsaved members.
SCHOOL – Another week or two and school starts up again and plans are being made to start up the Good News Clubs again which is always a big undertaking. Pray for workers to help out in this great effort to win boys and girls for Christ. It takes a lot of work and planning.
TEACHING – A good Sunday school teacher, especially in the teen and adult classes, should learn how to draw the class into discussion. It is not enough to just lecture the class, we need to get the class thinking and participating. I thing some teachers are afraid the students might ask a question they can’t answer. This shouldn’t be a problem, just admit you don’t know but you will find an answer for next week. No one has all the answers so be honest, admit it and find an answer.
VISITATION – Recently Al, Patty and I called on a couple ladies in a rest home and we had an enjoyable time. They were so appreciative of our call. A third lady came by and joined into the conversation. There are a lot of lonely people in this world that need a friendly call. Plan to make a call on someone this week. Just imagine how much our churches would grow if we all planned to make one call a week.
GROWTH – We have a family picture on the wall with eighteen people in it. If we were to take that picture today, we would have to add twenty-one to it. Isn’t it amazing how families grow? So it is with every family and we need to pray and labor to see that each one accepts Christ as their Savior so that we may be together for all eternity. Sadly, that is not the case and there are gaps in all of our families with unsaved members.
SCHOOL – Another week or two and school starts up again and plans are being made to start up the Good News Clubs again which is always a big undertaking. Pray for workers to help out in this great effort to win boys and girls for Christ. It takes a lot of work and planning.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
URGENT PRAYER NEEDED – My grandson Ben received his second heart transplant Monday night. Twelve hours later he will have a second surgery for a kidney transplant.
REMEMBERING BACK – Recently I have been recalling how I got started in ministry and I would like to share the details with you. I received Christ as a boy but without parental encouragement I got away from it. After marriage the Lord brought heavy conviction upon me and I began living for the Lord and sensing a deep need to serve Him. Without Bible college training I knew no church would accept me in ministry. Nor could I figure a way to go to college and care for a family of five. This meant I would have to start a church and learn as I labored.
MAKING CONTACTS – I called Dr. Robert Powell of Temple Baptist Church in Tacoma, Washington He was leaving for the conference out east and said he would get off the train in Auburn for a few minutes, which he did. He gave me the names of three pastors I didn’t know and he got back on the train. I finally found the three men and learned they had rented a small store building in Federal Way, Washington without knowing where the next months rent would come from or who would take the task of starting a church. They had me speak in their three churches to get to know me and afterwards gave me the keys to the building and told me to go to work. They would continue to pay the rent through their churches. What a challenge for someone as ignorant and untrained as I was.
BIBLE STUDY – Some ladies from the church we attended were having a home Bible study in the area and some husbands had started attending as well. They rightly felt they shouldn’t be teaching men in the class and this gave me an opportunity at some contacts to help start a new church. God works in strange ways.
PROPERTY - As the work grew we knew we needed a place of our own and I found five acres in the area with and old house on it which we bought and started a building on the opposite end of the land. It was a good thing, as the owner of the storefront did not want to renew the lease on the building. While working on the building we started holding Sunday morning services in a restaurant owned by a family of one of the children coming to our services. We eventually started holding meetings in our unfinished building.
ORDINATION – About three years into the project the new church decided to call for an ordination council for me. The council was well attended with pastors wanting to question me being an untrained pastor in their fellowship. The council went well and they unanimously recommend me for ordination.
REMEMBERING BACK – Recently I have been recalling how I got started in ministry and I would like to share the details with you. I received Christ as a boy but without parental encouragement I got away from it. After marriage the Lord brought heavy conviction upon me and I began living for the Lord and sensing a deep need to serve Him. Without Bible college training I knew no church would accept me in ministry. Nor could I figure a way to go to college and care for a family of five. This meant I would have to start a church and learn as I labored.
MAKING CONTACTS – I called Dr. Robert Powell of Temple Baptist Church in Tacoma, Washington He was leaving for the conference out east and said he would get off the train in Auburn for a few minutes, which he did. He gave me the names of three pastors I didn’t know and he got back on the train. I finally found the three men and learned they had rented a small store building in Federal Way, Washington without knowing where the next months rent would come from or who would take the task of starting a church. They had me speak in their three churches to get to know me and afterwards gave me the keys to the building and told me to go to work. They would continue to pay the rent through their churches. What a challenge for someone as ignorant and untrained as I was.
BIBLE STUDY – Some ladies from the church we attended were having a home Bible study in the area and some husbands had started attending as well. They rightly felt they shouldn’t be teaching men in the class and this gave me an opportunity at some contacts to help start a new church. God works in strange ways.
PROPERTY - As the work grew we knew we needed a place of our own and I found five acres in the area with and old house on it which we bought and started a building on the opposite end of the land. It was a good thing, as the owner of the storefront did not want to renew the lease on the building. While working on the building we started holding Sunday morning services in a restaurant owned by a family of one of the children coming to our services. We eventually started holding meetings in our unfinished building.
ORDINATION – About three years into the project the new church decided to call for an ordination council for me. The council was well attended with pastors wanting to question me being an untrained pastor in their fellowship. The council went well and they unanimously recommend me for ordination.
Friday, July 23, 2010
THE MOVE – Going from Ohio to Texas was quite a move. Patty has done her best to make me feel at home. She has hung pictures I have taken over the years of nature such as Killdeer eggs, a large woods toadstool, ocean pictures & bittersweet berries. She & Al have treated me royally.
TEACHING – The past three Wednesdays I have taught the midweek Bible study in Galatians as the one who usually teaches it has not been able to. I enjoyed doing so even though my eyes make the words overlap making study a bit difficult.
FENCES – Everyone’s backyard here are fenced in with six-foot boards, something I have not seen before. Everyone wants their privacy I guess. Makes good business for lumberyards. Our neighbors dogs keep trying to break though their fence he apparently doesn't like being fenced in.
COMPANY – Al’s mom and dad visited last week and we had an enjoyable time together. Al took time off from work on Thursday and Friday to spend time with them. They are from Kentucky and returned home after dinner on Sunday.
GALATIANS 6:10 – “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” One of the reasons Christianity grew so rapidly in the beginning was the carrying out the spirit of this verse. Christians were known for doing good to others. Though they were persecuted they didn’t return evil for evil. It was their desire to show forth the love of Christ. Further, Christians suffered for their faith and often were in dire circumstances, needing help. Family should take care of family. May we in our day follow this instruction. If believers will do so they will find their efforts bearing much fruit.
DOCTORING – I am trying to get established with doctors here in Texas. Patty has been working on it for me and I saw a foot doctor yesterday and also filled out papers for an internist. I hate changing doctors after being established with some for so many years. This is one the prices you pay for moving, lots of paper work. It use to be we’d see a GP for everything and now today everyone specializes and you end up seeing half a dozen different doctors.
Well, keep looking up, the Lord is coming.
TEACHING – The past three Wednesdays I have taught the midweek Bible study in Galatians as the one who usually teaches it has not been able to. I enjoyed doing so even though my eyes make the words overlap making study a bit difficult.
FENCES – Everyone’s backyard here are fenced in with six-foot boards, something I have not seen before. Everyone wants their privacy I guess. Makes good business for lumberyards. Our neighbors dogs keep trying to break though their fence he apparently doesn't like being fenced in.
COMPANY – Al’s mom and dad visited last week and we had an enjoyable time together. Al took time off from work on Thursday and Friday to spend time with them. They are from Kentucky and returned home after dinner on Sunday.
GALATIANS 6:10 – “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” One of the reasons Christianity grew so rapidly in the beginning was the carrying out the spirit of this verse. Christians were known for doing good to others. Though they were persecuted they didn’t return evil for evil. It was their desire to show forth the love of Christ. Further, Christians suffered for their faith and often were in dire circumstances, needing help. Family should take care of family. May we in our day follow this instruction. If believers will do so they will find their efforts bearing much fruit.
DOCTORING – I am trying to get established with doctors here in Texas. Patty has been working on it for me and I saw a foot doctor yesterday and also filled out papers for an internist. I hate changing doctors after being established with some for so many years. This is one the prices you pay for moving, lots of paper work. It use to be we’d see a GP for everything and now today everyone specializes and you end up seeing half a dozen different doctors.
Well, keep looking up, the Lord is coming.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
RAPTURE – I have been thinking back to when I was four or five years old. I must have heard something about going to Heaven. I had gathered all my treasures (toys) and stacked them under the grand piano that my aunt played. I lived with my grandparents who manage a chain variety store. Granny, my grandfather’s mother, took care of me while they worked at the store. When I was asked why I had gathered my toys under the piano I told them I was getting ready to take them to Heaven with me. My point in sharing this with you is to tell you it is never too early to talk to your children about Heaven and how to get there. As parents and grandparents we need to share spiritual truths with our children, preparing for the day when they will accept Christ as their Savior. Simply explained, children are capable of understanding more than what we may think. Pray for wisdom that God will enable you to instill spiritual truths in the hearts of your children.
MOVE TO TEXAS – I never dreamed I would live in Texas but here I am, living with my daughter Patty and her husband Albert. Patty helped me with a huge garage sale getting rid of things in Ohio. The house is up for sale so please pray for a quick sale so I will be out from those expenses and concerns.
TEACHING – This Wednesday I had the opportunity to teach the midweek Bible study. Not many were there but I enjoyed the opportunity of sharing the truths of Galatians chapter five about the works of the flesh and the fruits of the Spirit. I have some difficulty with my vision as letters over lap each other, etc. but we got through it.
BEAUTY EVERYWHERE – No matter where you go in this wonderful county of ours there are beautiful things to enjoy. There are flowering trees and bushes all new to me here in Texas. Even in a fallen world God has given us beauty to enjoy. I can’t begin to imagine the beauty we will enjoy in millennial Kingdom and the new Heaven and Earth when God brings that all about. We long for the day.
BEREAN BAPTIST - I have already joined the church here as I believe Christians should belong to a local church to grow and serve through.
MOVE TO TEXAS – I never dreamed I would live in Texas but here I am, living with my daughter Patty and her husband Albert. Patty helped me with a huge garage sale getting rid of things in Ohio. The house is up for sale so please pray for a quick sale so I will be out from those expenses and concerns.
TEACHING – This Wednesday I had the opportunity to teach the midweek Bible study. Not many were there but I enjoyed the opportunity of sharing the truths of Galatians chapter five about the works of the flesh and the fruits of the Spirit. I have some difficulty with my vision as letters over lap each other, etc. but we got through it.
BEAUTY EVERYWHERE – No matter where you go in this wonderful county of ours there are beautiful things to enjoy. There are flowering trees and bushes all new to me here in Texas. Even in a fallen world God has given us beauty to enjoy. I can’t begin to imagine the beauty we will enjoy in millennial Kingdom and the new Heaven and Earth when God brings that all about. We long for the day.
BEREAN BAPTIST - I have already joined the church here as I believe Christians should belong to a local church to grow and serve through.
Friday, May 14, 2010
May 12
CHANGE: I believe I mentioned change in last weeks Musings. I am back in Texas where I am planning to live with Patty and Al. The end of the month we plan to go back to Ohio to finish selling things before the big move. I just can't live alone, needing much help and Patty is a great helper. If you know anyone who is moving to Dublin I have five acres with a nice stone home. An auctioneer will check things out tomorrow to see if I have enough things to make it worthwhile. If so this will greatly speed things up.
MINORITIES: The time was when Blacks were the minority in America. In Texas Whites are the minority. The population here is mostly made up the Blacks and Hispanics. This is not a complaint, just stating a fact of life as I observe my circumstances. It is a good thing I like Mexican food, we ate at one Sunday after the Mother's Day services.
GRADUATIONS: On the way back from Ohio last week we went too in a graduation at Le Tourneau where one of the girls from Berean Baptist goes. This Saturday there is another graduation from a State College we plan to attend. It is great knowing that we have young Christians coming up to fill in the place of we older ones that are moving off the scene.
MINORITIES: The time was when Blacks were the minority in America. In Texas Whites are the minority. The population here is mostly made up the Blacks and Hispanics. This is not a complaint, just stating a fact of life as I observe my circumstances. It is a good thing I like Mexican food, we ate at one Sunday after the Mother's Day services.
GRADUATIONS: On the way back from Ohio last week we went too in a graduation at Le Tourneau where one of the girls from Berean Baptist goes. This Saturday there is another graduation from a State College we plan to attend. It is great knowing that we have young Christians coming up to fill in the place of we older ones that are moving off the scene.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Changes
Dear Family, Friends & Prayer Warriors:
MUSINGS / PRAYER LETTER / 5-5-10
BETTY’S PASSING: Most of you know by now that Betty passed away on March 14th, but for those that are not aware I thought I should get a quick note off. Following the funeral I went to Texas to stay with Patty and Al for a couple weeks and then back home to try and get things in order. I have decided to move to Texas and live with Patty and Al. I am not able to live alone and keep things up. While home Patty has been working hard to get things taken care of to make the move. She now needs to return home to care for things there and I am going with her. We plan to return to Dublin in June to finish getting rid of things and to put the house on the market. Please pray it will sell quickly.
MUSINGS: People keep asking if I will keep writing the Musings. Yes, I plan to keep them up once we get things in order. I want to keep sharing these with you but I’ve needed time to grieve and to get my thought processes working again.
BEREAN BAPTIST CHURCH: This is the church that Al pastors along with his full time secular job. It is a small church and the people have been very friendly and accepting of me and I enjoy their fellowship. I am not able to be of help in the church but I can at least add one to their number and fill a place in a pew.
HEALTH WISE: I have been to the doctor since returning from Texas and everything seems to be in order. I asked him again about this foggy headedness of mine and he told Patty I have been asking him about this for 15 years or more but still has no answers for me. Guess I will just have to continue living with this miserable condition.
CHANGE; Life is full of changes. Please continue to pray for me through this major change. I will miss many friends and my son Gary’s family here in Ohio while making new friends in Texas but this seems to be God’s will for me during these closing days in my eighties. Thank you for your faithful prayers and support!!
Yours In Christ: Les Newell
MUSINGS / PRAYER LETTER / 5-5-10
BETTY’S PASSING: Most of you know by now that Betty passed away on March 14th, but for those that are not aware I thought I should get a quick note off. Following the funeral I went to Texas to stay with Patty and Al for a couple weeks and then back home to try and get things in order. I have decided to move to Texas and live with Patty and Al. I am not able to live alone and keep things up. While home Patty has been working hard to get things taken care of to make the move. She now needs to return home to care for things there and I am going with her. We plan to return to Dublin in June to finish getting rid of things and to put the house on the market. Please pray it will sell quickly.
MUSINGS: People keep asking if I will keep writing the Musings. Yes, I plan to keep them up once we get things in order. I want to keep sharing these with you but I’ve needed time to grieve and to get my thought processes working again.
BEREAN BAPTIST CHURCH: This is the church that Al pastors along with his full time secular job. It is a small church and the people have been very friendly and accepting of me and I enjoy their fellowship. I am not able to be of help in the church but I can at least add one to their number and fill a place in a pew.
HEALTH WISE: I have been to the doctor since returning from Texas and everything seems to be in order. I asked him again about this foggy headedness of mine and he told Patty I have been asking him about this for 15 years or more but still has no answers for me. Guess I will just have to continue living with this miserable condition.
CHANGE; Life is full of changes. Please continue to pray for me through this major change. I will miss many friends and my son Gary’s family here in Ohio while making new friends in Texas but this seems to be God’s will for me during these closing days in my eighties. Thank you for your faithful prayers and support!!
Yours In Christ: Les Newell
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Funeral Information
This is an update from Laura again. I just wanted to update you all on the funeral information.
The funeral is on Friday, March 19 at Tidd Funeral Home (5265 Norwich St. Hilliard, OH 43026) at 1:00 p.m.
The viewing will be on Thursday, March 18 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Tidd Funeral Home.
The internment will be at the Dublin Cemetery on 161 in Dublin, OH.
Your prayers are coveted as we go through the grieving process and as other decisions are made for the future. Thanks for all your cards and letters of encouragement.
The funeral is on Friday, March 19 at Tidd Funeral Home (5265 Norwich St. Hilliard, OH 43026) at 1:00 p.m.
The viewing will be on Thursday, March 18 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Tidd Funeral Home.
The internment will be at the Dublin Cemetery on 161 in Dublin, OH.
Your prayers are coveted as we go through the grieving process and as other decisions are made for the future. Thanks for all your cards and letters of encouragement.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
An update from Laura Lee (Les' granddaughter)
This is an update from Les' granddaughter, Laura...
I just wanted to let you all know that Betty went home to be with the Lord this morning at about 10:30. I will try to keep you updated when I find out details for the funeral. Your prayers are much appreciated during this time.
I just wanted to let you all know that Betty went home to be with the Lord this morning at about 10:30. I will try to keep you updated when I find out details for the funeral. Your prayers are much appreciated during this time.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Dear Family Friends and Prayer Warriors:
I have not sent out a "Musings" for some time due vision and health issues but I will try to get a brief one out today.
HEALTH ISSUES: Betty is not well and is bed ridden. She was in the hospital and they sent her home in this condition. She is not able to get up even to use the bathroom Her daughter, Kathy, lives with us and is near exhaustion caring for her. Please be in much prayer about this. Betty told me last night she wants to go home and I wasn't sure if she thinks she is still in the hospital or was referring to her heavenly home. / I have neurapathy in my legs and a foggy headedness continually that is very frustrating. I pray daily for the Lord to intervene and take us home.
GRANDSON BEN: We don't get much news about Ben, in Oregon, but things are very critical. Please pray for him, his wife, mother and other family members. If you use Facebook you can look up "Ben Newell Updates" for the most current information.
EARTHQUAKES: Ever since the Haiti earthquake, I found it interesting that a number of other earthquakes followed it in Florida, California and several other places. I find significance in this because I believe this fits into prophetic events as mentioned in Matthew 24:7, "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famine, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places." We are certainly seeing this in various places today. Keep watching your news for other instances. We are living in momentous days. You might also watch for areas of famine and pestilences. We are also hearing of nation rising against nation. There will no doubt be more such events as time moves along.
GLOBAL WARMING: This might not set well with those who advocate global warming but it is interesting to note that there is not a state that has not had snow this winter. We have had record amounts of snow here in Ohio. These people often attribute global warning to human causes. We no doubt add to the problem but it is rather difficult to attribute weather conditions to human actions. God still controls weather conditions, not man.
UNSAVED FAMILY MEMBERS; No doubt we all have unsaved family members and as we see these end time things taking place it behooves us to be much in prayer for them.
BAD TESTIMONY: The ten missionaries who tried to take children out of Haiti without proper papers have given Christianity a BAD NAME.
I have not sent out a "Musings" for some time due vision and health issues but I will try to get a brief one out today.
HEALTH ISSUES: Betty is not well and is bed ridden. She was in the hospital and they sent her home in this condition. She is not able to get up even to use the bathroom Her daughter, Kathy, lives with us and is near exhaustion caring for her. Please be in much prayer about this. Betty told me last night she wants to go home and I wasn't sure if she thinks she is still in the hospital or was referring to her heavenly home. / I have neurapathy in my legs and a foggy headedness continually that is very frustrating. I pray daily for the Lord to intervene and take us home.
GRANDSON BEN: We don't get much news about Ben, in Oregon, but things are very critical. Please pray for him, his wife, mother and other family members. If you use Facebook you can look up "Ben Newell Updates" for the most current information.
EARTHQUAKES: Ever since the Haiti earthquake, I found it interesting that a number of other earthquakes followed it in Florida, California and several other places. I find significance in this because I believe this fits into prophetic events as mentioned in Matthew 24:7, "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famine, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places." We are certainly seeing this in various places today. Keep watching your news for other instances. We are living in momentous days. You might also watch for areas of famine and pestilences. We are also hearing of nation rising against nation. There will no doubt be more such events as time moves along.
GLOBAL WARMING: This might not set well with those who advocate global warming but it is interesting to note that there is not a state that has not had snow this winter. We have had record amounts of snow here in Ohio. These people often attribute global warning to human causes. We no doubt add to the problem but it is rather difficult to attribute weather conditions to human actions. God still controls weather conditions, not man.
UNSAVED FAMILY MEMBERS; No doubt we all have unsaved family members and as we see these end time things taking place it behooves us to be much in prayer for them.
BAD TESTIMONY: The ten missionaries who tried to take children out of Haiti without proper papers have given Christianity a BAD NAME.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
September #1
PERSONAL ITEMS: Betty had a chemo treatment last week, the first after several months and is having some side effects from it causing some head pain and swelling. We do appreciate your prayers for her. / As for me, after attending all church services for years of ministry, I now feel a bit guilty of not attending any. The various problems I am having makes it difficult being out and getting around. The fuzzy headedness and diabetic neuropathy I’ve mentioned before keeps me in.
REMEMBERING A FRIEND; I met Henry while working at Boeings in Seattle. He had graduated from a Bible College and wanted to get into full time Christian work. We held lunch time Bible studies whenever we could find any interested parties. I was working to maintain my family along with starting my first church. Wanting an opportunity to preach I invited him to come and preach for me on a particular Sunday. He came and I introduced him to our little flock and turned the preaching time over to him. He had difficulty delivering his sermon and in less than ten minutes sat down and I got up and finished his message for him. It was quite an embarrassment for him. Though he couldn’t handle preaching, in time he was a lifesaver to us. The time came when I could no longer manage working at Boeing and keep the church going so I quit Boeing, taking a step of faith not knowing how I’d provide for my family. A man in the church told me of an older couple that needed their house painted which I did but the profit from that didn’t last long. About the same time Henry quit Boeing also and got a job that paid better by installing insulation in new homes. Whenever I needed help paying the bills, etc. Henry would let me work with him, being paid per foot of insulation installed. Though he was better and faster at it than I was he would split the days earnings with me. Many times Henry’s generosity saved the day for us. Sad to say, Henry is missed, having gone on to his reward early. It is amazing how God has raised up people to make our ministry possible. The list is long, many of whom are those who receive these “Musings.” Thank you for your prayers and support.
GOD IS IN CONTROL: As I listen to the news there are many troubling things going on and I wonder how it is all going to turn out. There is high governmental indebtedness, with more coming. Hardly a day goes by but what someone is murdered right here in Columbus. Whenever I get started thinking about such things, I have to remind myself that God is in control.
REMEMBERING A FRIEND; I met Henry while working at Boeings in Seattle. He had graduated from a Bible College and wanted to get into full time Christian work. We held lunch time Bible studies whenever we could find any interested parties. I was working to maintain my family along with starting my first church. Wanting an opportunity to preach I invited him to come and preach for me on a particular Sunday. He came and I introduced him to our little flock and turned the preaching time over to him. He had difficulty delivering his sermon and in less than ten minutes sat down and I got up and finished his message for him. It was quite an embarrassment for him. Though he couldn’t handle preaching, in time he was a lifesaver to us. The time came when I could no longer manage working at Boeing and keep the church going so I quit Boeing, taking a step of faith not knowing how I’d provide for my family. A man in the church told me of an older couple that needed their house painted which I did but the profit from that didn’t last long. About the same time Henry quit Boeing also and got a job that paid better by installing insulation in new homes. Whenever I needed help paying the bills, etc. Henry would let me work with him, being paid per foot of insulation installed. Though he was better and faster at it than I was he would split the days earnings with me. Many times Henry’s generosity saved the day for us. Sad to say, Henry is missed, having gone on to his reward early. It is amazing how God has raised up people to make our ministry possible. The list is long, many of whom are those who receive these “Musings.” Thank you for your prayers and support.
GOD IS IN CONTROL: As I listen to the news there are many troubling things going on and I wonder how it is all going to turn out. There is high governmental indebtedness, with more coming. Hardly a day goes by but what someone is murdered right here in Columbus. Whenever I get started thinking about such things, I have to remind myself that God is in control.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
July 2009 #1
PERSONAL: Betty is presently undergoing radiation each day for ten days to shrink a brain tumor that was causing severe headaches and affecting her left eye. The eyelid stays closed and hopefully this will correct as the tumor shrinks and no longer presses on a nerve that causes her problem. It is amazing how much she has had to go through. It seems there is no end to treatments, one thing after another. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
SOMETHING IS WRONG HERE: Several times I have heard about “Christian homosexuals.” This is an oxymoron if I have ever heard one. How can these people claim to be Christians when they are practicing what God so clearly forbids? If God destroyed Sodom for the wickedness of homosexuality in the Old Testament why would anyone believe it is acceptable in the New Testament as a part of Christianity? A homosexual can repent of his or her sin and accept Christ and put their sin behind them but they cannot find the practice any more acceptable during this church age than it was in Old Testament.
SOCIAL SECURITY: Greta Van Susteran (spelling??) has reported on Fox a $700,000.00 dance and party in Phoenix, Arizona held for Social Security managers from all across the country having been flown in for this and put up in an expensive four-star hotel. How can this sort of thing be justified by our government in these economic times when so many are out of work and many others spend nine to twelve months trying to get signed up for their benefits. Someone needs to be fired.
LIFE AS A HOME MISSIONARY: If God should call you to be a home missionary plan to make many moves. As I look back over the years there were many moves to start churches and to minister to need works. Some moves were for short periods and others lasted two to five years. It is hard on the wife and the children. Wives like to put down roots and children don’t like having to make new friends. There are always adjustments to make. Thankfully I had a wife that stood behind me in those many moves. She use to say, “Blow in my ear and I’ll follow you anywhere.” And she did. As hard as moving was we had the joy of many friends in many places across the country and when we traveled their were place to stop and spend a night. In time we were able to purchase a small motor home and latter travel trailers. They helped, giving us our own bed to sleep in wherever we traveled. Perhaps I’ll add to these thoughts another time
SOMETHING IS WRONG HERE: Several times I have heard about “Christian homosexuals.” This is an oxymoron if I have ever heard one. How can these people claim to be Christians when they are practicing what God so clearly forbids? If God destroyed Sodom for the wickedness of homosexuality in the Old Testament why would anyone believe it is acceptable in the New Testament as a part of Christianity? A homosexual can repent of his or her sin and accept Christ and put their sin behind them but they cannot find the practice any more acceptable during this church age than it was in Old Testament.
SOCIAL SECURITY: Greta Van Susteran (spelling??) has reported on Fox a $700,000.00 dance and party in Phoenix, Arizona held for Social Security managers from all across the country having been flown in for this and put up in an expensive four-star hotel. How can this sort of thing be justified by our government in these economic times when so many are out of work and many others spend nine to twelve months trying to get signed up for their benefits. Someone needs to be fired.
LIFE AS A HOME MISSIONARY: If God should call you to be a home missionary plan to make many moves. As I look back over the years there were many moves to start churches and to minister to need works. Some moves were for short periods and others lasted two to five years. It is hard on the wife and the children. Wives like to put down roots and children don’t like having to make new friends. There are always adjustments to make. Thankfully I had a wife that stood behind me in those many moves. She use to say, “Blow in my ear and I’ll follow you anywhere.” And she did. As hard as moving was we had the joy of many friends in many places across the country and when we traveled their were place to stop and spend a night. In time we were able to purchase a small motor home and latter travel trailers. They helped, giving us our own bed to sleep in wherever we traveled. Perhaps I’ll add to these thoughts another time
Friday, June 19, 2009
June 2009 #1
PRAYER FOR BETTY: Betty is presently going through radiation on her back & tailbone. She has had six days and has a total of twelve treatments, going into the oncologist each day. She has a lot of pain laying on the radiation table but it is a short treatment. Hopefully this will ease the bone pain she has been experiencing.
PREACHER OBAMA; Turn on the news (Fox) most any weekday late morning or early afternoon and you are more than likely to hear President Obama speaking. He is not preaching the Good News he is preaching more big government, a favorite topic of his. Bigger government, more power, authority, rules, agencies, czars, etc. are increasing government jobs. His stimulus package is not doing much to create new jobs abound the nation, only government jobs. The reality is that our children and grandchildren will be working for the government for many years to come to pay the tax bill. / The media is still entranced with Obama, even when his swift hand kills an annoying fly, great news stuff. If that doesn’t catch your fancy keeping watching, you will get to see the family dog or his rushing out with a caravan of limousines to purchase hamburgers. He even brought some back to those who weren’t in the caravan. I never did see who paid for the hamburgers. / The taxpayers did get to pay thousands of dollars for dinner and a play in New York. Can you imagine the flack President Bush would of received had he done the same when he was in office? / We haven’t seen anything yet, just wait until Obama gets his socialized medical plan passed that is similar to what Canada and England has. My son John was under that plan when he and his wife Ethel served as missionaries in Canada. He had gall bladder problems and writhed in pain on the floor at times because the government declared the problem related to elective surgery. It took months of agony before he received surgical relief. If you have never had a serious gall bladder attack, believe me, it is something more than just an “elective” procedure. You would take a knife and cut it out yourself if you were able.
REAL SPIRITUAL WORK: “John 6:29, Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” Too often we apply or claim wrong things as spiritual work. There is no spiritual work done by us until we start from this point, knowing first that we belong to the Savior, then we can serve him and know we will receive His reward.
PREACHER OBAMA; Turn on the news (Fox) most any weekday late morning or early afternoon and you are more than likely to hear President Obama speaking. He is not preaching the Good News he is preaching more big government, a favorite topic of his. Bigger government, more power, authority, rules, agencies, czars, etc. are increasing government jobs. His stimulus package is not doing much to create new jobs abound the nation, only government jobs. The reality is that our children and grandchildren will be working for the government for many years to come to pay the tax bill. / The media is still entranced with Obama, even when his swift hand kills an annoying fly, great news stuff. If that doesn’t catch your fancy keeping watching, you will get to see the family dog or his rushing out with a caravan of limousines to purchase hamburgers. He even brought some back to those who weren’t in the caravan. I never did see who paid for the hamburgers. / The taxpayers did get to pay thousands of dollars for dinner and a play in New York. Can you imagine the flack President Bush would of received had he done the same when he was in office? / We haven’t seen anything yet, just wait until Obama gets his socialized medical plan passed that is similar to what Canada and England has. My son John was under that plan when he and his wife Ethel served as missionaries in Canada. He had gall bladder problems and writhed in pain on the floor at times because the government declared the problem related to elective surgery. It took months of agony before he received surgical relief. If you have never had a serious gall bladder attack, believe me, it is something more than just an “elective” procedure. You would take a knife and cut it out yourself if you were able.
REAL SPIRITUAL WORK: “John 6:29, Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.” Too often we apply or claim wrong things as spiritual work. There is no spiritual work done by us until we start from this point, knowing first that we belong to the Savior, then we can serve him and know we will receive His reward.
Friday, June 5, 2009
May 2009 #1
PERSONALS: It has been some time since I sent out a Musings and many are asking what happened to the “Musings”?. Between Betty and I doctoring and not feeling the best I just haven’t felt up to writing or doing much of anything, other than over using my recliner night & day. Further, my vision had declined making reading very difficult. / Betty has developed double vision and been to the eye doctor a number of time and had MRI’s taken to try and find out what is causing the problem, including a minor surgery to check the blood vessels at her temple. Nothing was found so she is seeing the eye doctor regularly to keep tabs while wearing an eye patch over one eye.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: I turn eighty on the 18th and the kids planned a big celebration for me over the Memorial Day weekend. There were 24 of us sharing a joyous time together. Patty can early and stayed for two weeks that has been a rich blessing. My what a great sacrifice on their part coming from as far away as Oregon. I never expected such an honor and blessing. Nor did I expect to reach this age but God has graciously allowed it and I take things as they come.
TATTOOS: I wrote previously about tattoos and someone responded with the following: “Do you really think tattoos are a mimicry of satanic practices in modern-day culture: A lot of mandates God set in the Old Testament for the Israelites aren’t applicable – times change along with cultures. A tattoo that can spark a conversation about faith in Christ doesn’t seem like a negating thing to me.” I don’t want to give a lot of space and time to this topic but here I go. The Ten Commandments come to mind and I find it interesting that nine of the Ten Commandments are repeated in the New Testament, with the exception of keeping the Sabbath. They were good for Israel and they are good for the present age as well. The Old Testament sets the stage for the New Testament and it is valuable for us today, else God would not have preserved it for us. Therefore we learn from it and find it applicable in so many ways. Old or New Testament, as a Christian I choose to forgo tattoos believing that my body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit and not to be so abused. Anyone who chooses differently, that is between them and their Lord but I find it difficult as a believer to do so. Further, the God of the O.T. is the same as the God of the N.T. and what was wrong or immoral in one period is wrong and immoral in the others. Culture should not amend God’s standards.
GAY QUEEN: Can you believe this: A gay male in a Los Angeles high school was voted to be their prom queen. What a slap in the face for girls of the school. I think if I had been the prom king I would have stepped down from the position. For that matter I would have skipped the prom. Sodom and Gomorrah here we come.
FEWER POLICE & FIREMEN: Economic problems are causing the firing of police and firemen, endangering our communities. We desperately need to see a turn around or we are going to see an increase of criminal activity. Do you find it interesting (or a sad day) that Obama is increasing the size of government, hiring new czars, etc. rather than a true stimulus that increases employment for society at large?
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: I turn eighty on the 18th and the kids planned a big celebration for me over the Memorial Day weekend. There were 24 of us sharing a joyous time together. Patty can early and stayed for two weeks that has been a rich blessing. My what a great sacrifice on their part coming from as far away as Oregon. I never expected such an honor and blessing. Nor did I expect to reach this age but God has graciously allowed it and I take things as they come.
TATTOOS: I wrote previously about tattoos and someone responded with the following: “Do you really think tattoos are a mimicry of satanic practices in modern-day culture: A lot of mandates God set in the Old Testament for the Israelites aren’t applicable – times change along with cultures. A tattoo that can spark a conversation about faith in Christ doesn’t seem like a negating thing to me.” I don’t want to give a lot of space and time to this topic but here I go. The Ten Commandments come to mind and I find it interesting that nine of the Ten Commandments are repeated in the New Testament, with the exception of keeping the Sabbath. They were good for Israel and they are good for the present age as well. The Old Testament sets the stage for the New Testament and it is valuable for us today, else God would not have preserved it for us. Therefore we learn from it and find it applicable in so many ways. Old or New Testament, as a Christian I choose to forgo tattoos believing that my body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit and not to be so abused. Anyone who chooses differently, that is between them and their Lord but I find it difficult as a believer to do so. Further, the God of the O.T. is the same as the God of the N.T. and what was wrong or immoral in one period is wrong and immoral in the others. Culture should not amend God’s standards.
GAY QUEEN: Can you believe this: A gay male in a Los Angeles high school was voted to be their prom queen. What a slap in the face for girls of the school. I think if I had been the prom king I would have stepped down from the position. For that matter I would have skipped the prom. Sodom and Gomorrah here we come.
FEWER POLICE & FIREMEN: Economic problems are causing the firing of police and firemen, endangering our communities. We desperately need to see a turn around or we are going to see an increase of criminal activity. Do you find it interesting (or a sad day) that Obama is increasing the size of government, hiring new czars, etc. rather than a true stimulus that increases employment for society at large?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
March 2009 #2
PRAYER REQUEST FOR BETTY: You would think that Betty has had enough afflictions without adding another but here is a new one. Several weeks ago she started having double vision. We took her for an eye exam and the doctor ordered a brain MRI to make sure there were no brain tumors involved, considering her other cancer problems. Thankfully no tumors were found. Apparently sets of nerves are causing the double vision. Usually after about six months or so they correct themselves. She is wearing a patch to help avoid the double vision for now. Please pray this condition will correct itself in a short time, as it is quite difficult to deal with. She doesn’t complain and takes all these things in stride.
PATTY SURPRISE: My daughter Patty gave us a pleasant surprise this month and flew in for a few days. What a joy and a delight having her help and presence from Tuesday through Sunday and returning home on Monday. Then on Thursday she & Al had to drive out to Kansas to be there for the birth of a new grandchild early on Saturday morning by “C” Section, Abigail. Lynne Lee (ALL). Pray for Laura as she heals from the surgery. She and Mark are going to have their hands full with three small children, each fourteen months apart. I think that makes my 10th great grandchild, plus two on Betty’s side.
NOTRE DAME & OBAMA: Notre Dame has schedule conferring an Honorary Doctorate on President Barack Obama in May. Many alumni and others are up in arms over this. Notre Dame is a highly esteemed Catholic University representing their faith as well as high academic standards. Obama’s early on decision to approve funding international abortions and lifting the ban on stem cell research is contrary to Catholic faith and is thus raising serious questions in the minds of faithful and church leadership. Without a question it is seen as hypocritical and many are having a problem understanding the Universities decision. I am sure cancellation of conferring this honorary doctorate is out of the question but certain should be cancelled as a rebuff of President Obama’s immoral stance.
FOREVER STAMPS; Be sure to stock up on the Forever Stamps before the postage rate goes up so you can save a couple cents on postage for a while. These rate increases hurt Christian mailers as well as others and speaks to the trouble the U. S. Postal service is in. They are laying off more people and are talking of ending Saturday delivery of the mail. Times are changing and the cost of living and ministry is going up
ONE WORLD MONEY; China, France and other countries are calling for new money for the U.S.A. and others that would destroy the dollar. Such a move would also move us closer to the One World Order setting the stage for the Anti-Christ. Hopefully our government is smarter than that but I am beginning to wonder. Obama has just left for the G20 Summit meeting in an effort to get other countries to go along with his plan to spend their way into a stronger economy. One British parliamentarian has strongly condemned Obama and Brown for their financial plans. Thankfully a few are crying out.
MORE ON TATOOS; My son Gary sent the following: “I saw an article about a youth pastor who encouraged his students to go with him to get “Christian” tattoos, like the ones he proudly displayed, covering his own body. I guess he didn’t know that his actions and his tattoos were a form of idolatry, a mimicry of satanistic practices, as well as an act strictly forbidden by God.”
“Moses wrote in Leviticus 19:28: “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, NOR TATTOO ANY MARKS ON YOU. I AM the LORD.” (NKVJ)
“I guess he was more interested in gaining a following for himself, rather than leading his students into gaining a personal knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ.”
PATTY SURPRISE: My daughter Patty gave us a pleasant surprise this month and flew in for a few days. What a joy and a delight having her help and presence from Tuesday through Sunday and returning home on Monday. Then on Thursday she & Al had to drive out to Kansas to be there for the birth of a new grandchild early on Saturday morning by “C” Section, Abigail. Lynne Lee (ALL). Pray for Laura as she heals from the surgery. She and Mark are going to have their hands full with three small children, each fourteen months apart. I think that makes my 10th great grandchild, plus two on Betty’s side.
NOTRE DAME & OBAMA: Notre Dame has schedule conferring an Honorary Doctorate on President Barack Obama in May. Many alumni and others are up in arms over this. Notre Dame is a highly esteemed Catholic University representing their faith as well as high academic standards. Obama’s early on decision to approve funding international abortions and lifting the ban on stem cell research is contrary to Catholic faith and is thus raising serious questions in the minds of faithful and church leadership. Without a question it is seen as hypocritical and many are having a problem understanding the Universities decision. I am sure cancellation of conferring this honorary doctorate is out of the question but certain should be cancelled as a rebuff of President Obama’s immoral stance.
FOREVER STAMPS; Be sure to stock up on the Forever Stamps before the postage rate goes up so you can save a couple cents on postage for a while. These rate increases hurt Christian mailers as well as others and speaks to the trouble the U. S. Postal service is in. They are laying off more people and are talking of ending Saturday delivery of the mail. Times are changing and the cost of living and ministry is going up
ONE WORLD MONEY; China, France and other countries are calling for new money for the U.S.A. and others that would destroy the dollar. Such a move would also move us closer to the One World Order setting the stage for the Anti-Christ. Hopefully our government is smarter than that but I am beginning to wonder. Obama has just left for the G20 Summit meeting in an effort to get other countries to go along with his plan to spend their way into a stronger economy. One British parliamentarian has strongly condemned Obama and Brown for their financial plans. Thankfully a few are crying out.
MORE ON TATOOS; My son Gary sent the following: “I saw an article about a youth pastor who encouraged his students to go with him to get “Christian” tattoos, like the ones he proudly displayed, covering his own body. I guess he didn’t know that his actions and his tattoos were a form of idolatry, a mimicry of satanistic practices, as well as an act strictly forbidden by God.”
“Moses wrote in Leviticus 19:28: “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, NOR TATTOO ANY MARKS ON YOU. I AM the LORD.” (NKVJ)
“I guess he was more interested in gaining a following for himself, rather than leading his students into gaining a personal knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ.”
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
March 2009 #1
BAD PARENTING: A co-missionary reminded me of problem we seldom hear much about, parents who teach their children to steal. One of my “Musings” brought it to his mind which in turn reminded me of an event many years ago when I managed the Sprouse Reitz Variety Stores. I was transferred to manage the store in Camas, Washington not long after the II World War. We had a lot of junk merchandize to clear out after the war. We had a large stock of men’s sox without elastic tops. Rubber was scarce during the war. I had marked down a lot of men’s sox and placed them on an end counter. Some were marked down more than others, being of better quality. In those days we had price tags held on by wire pins. I was up in my balcony office overlooking the store when I notice a mother and her two daughters at that end counter of sox. It was obvious what they were doing, switching price tags from the lesser valued sox with those that were of greater value. The mother was having her girls help make the switch. So, I went to the register to take the place of the clerk running it and waited for them to bring the merchandise to the check out. I quickly recognized what they had done and called them on the switch and told them to leave the store and to never return. I probably should have waited until they were outside the store, stopped them and called the police but that was too much hassle at the time. It is hard to believe parents would so teach their children to steal but apparently it still goes on. Parents will stand accountable before God for so teaching their children. We teach our children by example for good or bad and if you question that just observe how early small children pick up fowl language or slang when we don’t guard our tongues. Surely you have observed that.
CHANGING TERMS: Do you remember when the term “thousands of dollars” was used as a common term? Then we thought “a million dollars” was a lot of money. That has all changed as they now talk about multiplied “billions of dollars” and “trillions of dollars.” Have you noticed the change? Sad to say, most of us can’t even begin to comprehend what these new financial terms mean. I grew up at a time when a nickel bought a double scoop ice cream cone and a quarter bought a very large hamburger, a double tall glass milkshake and left over a nickel to buy a candy bar. It is hard to imagine our government giving away billions of dollars that when it is all said and done we won’t know what it bought. Our government has lost its compass and I am afraid we will have lost the Capitalism that made us great and exchanged it for European Socialism. Hang on; we are headed down the road of weakness and despair while setting the stage for Russia and the Arabs to move against Israel and ushering in the Great Tribulation. Call me a pessimist if you like but it has to come eventually and we should be rejoicing at the nearness of the coming rapture.
RELIGIOUS TRENDS; In case you missed it in the news there is a new report out now on religion that is causing quite a bit of discussion. (1) Catholics are now the largest religious group in the United States of America; (2) Baptists make up the second largest religious group; (3) Unbelievers have increased from 8% of our population to 15%; (4) More people now prefer not to identify themselves by any particular denominational group. This should concern true Christians for we are losing the battle for souls. We are also failing to make clear doctrinal distinctions. To reject a particular denomination group also means the lack of doctrinal beliefs because the various denominations held up certain Biblical beliefs. Those distinctions or beliefs are no longer important to people. For example, Baptists had convictions relating the importance of baptism and the autonomy of the local church; Methodism held up certain biblical beliefs based on the teachings of the Wesley brothers. Various founding beliefs have now been discarded for personal likes and dislikes rather than acceptance of biblical authority. These changes are moving to conditions that will make it easier for the anti-Christ to foist his anti-biblical positions upon the world. The further the churches move away to biblical authority the more susceptible people will be to the anti-Christ’s God denying leadership. Keep looking up.
OBAMA’S HYPOCRISY: President Barack Obama made promises while running for office that are rapidly being denied. He is finding it easier to make promises while seeking office than to fulfill them while facing a Democratically controlled Congress. Earmarks were suppose to go with his promises to scrutinize bills line by line, yet he just signed an omnibus bill with some 8,000 earmarks in it. Recognizing his own failure he refused to sign the bill publicly but did so behind closed doors with only a few present for the signing. Keep watching, this will not be his last showing of hypocrisy, there is no way he can keep the long list of promises made to his followers prior to the election. I wonder how long it will take those who voted for him to recognize their mistake.
CHANGING TERMS: Do you remember when the term “thousands of dollars” was used as a common term? Then we thought “a million dollars” was a lot of money. That has all changed as they now talk about multiplied “billions of dollars” and “trillions of dollars.” Have you noticed the change? Sad to say, most of us can’t even begin to comprehend what these new financial terms mean. I grew up at a time when a nickel bought a double scoop ice cream cone and a quarter bought a very large hamburger, a double tall glass milkshake and left over a nickel to buy a candy bar. It is hard to imagine our government giving away billions of dollars that when it is all said and done we won’t know what it bought. Our government has lost its compass and I am afraid we will have lost the Capitalism that made us great and exchanged it for European Socialism. Hang on; we are headed down the road of weakness and despair while setting the stage for Russia and the Arabs to move against Israel and ushering in the Great Tribulation. Call me a pessimist if you like but it has to come eventually and we should be rejoicing at the nearness of the coming rapture.
RELIGIOUS TRENDS; In case you missed it in the news there is a new report out now on religion that is causing quite a bit of discussion. (1) Catholics are now the largest religious group in the United States of America; (2) Baptists make up the second largest religious group; (3) Unbelievers have increased from 8% of our population to 15%; (4) More people now prefer not to identify themselves by any particular denominational group. This should concern true Christians for we are losing the battle for souls. We are also failing to make clear doctrinal distinctions. To reject a particular denomination group also means the lack of doctrinal beliefs because the various denominations held up certain Biblical beliefs. Those distinctions or beliefs are no longer important to people. For example, Baptists had convictions relating the importance of baptism and the autonomy of the local church; Methodism held up certain biblical beliefs based on the teachings of the Wesley brothers. Various founding beliefs have now been discarded for personal likes and dislikes rather than acceptance of biblical authority. These changes are moving to conditions that will make it easier for the anti-Christ to foist his anti-biblical positions upon the world. The further the churches move away to biblical authority the more susceptible people will be to the anti-Christ’s God denying leadership. Keep looking up.
OBAMA’S HYPOCRISY: President Barack Obama made promises while running for office that are rapidly being denied. He is finding it easier to make promises while seeking office than to fulfill them while facing a Democratically controlled Congress. Earmarks were suppose to go with his promises to scrutinize bills line by line, yet he just signed an omnibus bill with some 8,000 earmarks in it. Recognizing his own failure he refused to sign the bill publicly but did so behind closed doors with only a few present for the signing. Keep watching, this will not be his last showing of hypocrisy, there is no way he can keep the long list of promises made to his followers prior to the election. I wonder how long it will take those who voted for him to recognize their mistake.
Friday, February 27, 2009
February 2009 #3
REMOVING TATTOOS: What in the world does tattoo removal have to do with the stimulus package? How can this create jobs and get people back to work? Congressional leaders and their followers all need to have their heads examined, especially the one who added this to the list of perks in the stimulus package. You have to know our government passes bills without reading them, something they all admitted to when things like this show up. God have mercy on us. Just think, our children and grandchildren are going to have to pay the taxes on this stimulus bill that this generation has foisted on them.
NO BEAUTY OR MANLINESS HERE: It goes beyond my comprehension why anyone would so mark the bodies with tattoos. I have seen women parading themselves with their bodies being covered with tattoos exposed in their skimpy summer apparel. God created women beautiful and only pagans could think that tattoos add to their appearance as an improvement. Nor do tattoos add to the manliness of men. Many a man, once he matured and particularly having become Christians, have bemoaned the tattoos of their youth.
THE AMAZING GRACE OF GOD: The various books of the Bible repeats the historical events of Israel. Psalm 100 is an example of this. In verses 6 & 7 we are reminded of their repeating the sins of their fathers. Then we read verse 8, “Nevertheless He saved them, for His name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.” Israel was unworthy of God’s grace and we are unworthy of God grace, yet for the sake of his covenant with Israel and his promise of eternal life to believers, He still bestows His grace upon us. Praise His holy name, we don’t thank Him enough for His grace.
LOOKING BACK TO WARMER DAYS: Cold wintery days with the snow, wind and cold rains turns the heart back to warmer spring and summer days. I did many different things to meet the needs of the family and to make it possible to minister to a little church that couldn’t afford to adequately provide for the pastor. One of the ladies who attended our church had a husband who worked for the city to maintain its parks. Through that connection I was able to get the job of mowing the several city parks. I spent many a day mowing around trees, shrubs and picnic tables and sharpening the mowers blades. Actually, it was a good job because I could enjoy the outdoors and it gave me plenty of time to think about the lessons and sermons I had to prepare. Mowing didn’t require a lot of thinking, so often thoughts relating to the sermon were dwelt upon. Being out in Gods creation and enjoying the warmth of His sun was time well spent and though I wasn’t at my desk studying the task was eventually accomplished. Looking back on that special time warms my heart. I often wonder if the people ever appreciated the many things I had to do in order to minister to their spiritual needs. God knows, it was to His glory. Pastors who are able to give their full time to minister are fortunate and no doubt able to put more into their pastorates than I was able to do. Still, the small churches and the development of new churches is an important work too. He knew I was not equipped to minister to larger churches and He had me where He knew I fit best.
THE ODD JOBS; In that same local I did a lot of odd jobs besides mowing. Here is the list: (1) I hauled manure from the fee lots to the fields to fertilize them; (2) I used a shovel digging ditches; (3) I worked in a drug store setting up new counters and shelving; (4) mowing; (5) we had the distribution of a couple different newspapers; (6) I was a substitute mail carrier; and (7) I worked in a variety store. I think I am missing something but it gives you an idea of the things I did for the privilege of pastoring one small church. This of course was before I was with a mission agency and had raised support to do the church-planting ministry. I hope this wasn’t repetitive, I don’t recall whether I shared this before or not.
ILLUSTRATIONS: As difficult as the variety of jobs was while ministering, there was an advantage. I know of some pastors who struggled with finding illustrations for their sermons and lessons. The variety of jobs did provide ample materials for illustrations. When I was less experienced I remember buying a book of illustrations and it was always difficult trying to find an illustration that would fit. It didn’t take me long to learn that the best illustrations come from personal experiences and dealing with people and the circumstances of life. You really don’t need to look any further than that. The sooner a young pastor, evangelist or missionary learns that lesson the easier his task will become. There is no better way to relate to the congregation than out of the pool of life experiences.
NEXT MUSINGS: Parents teaching children to steal.
NO BEAUTY OR MANLINESS HERE: It goes beyond my comprehension why anyone would so mark the bodies with tattoos. I have seen women parading themselves with their bodies being covered with tattoos exposed in their skimpy summer apparel. God created women beautiful and only pagans could think that tattoos add to their appearance as an improvement. Nor do tattoos add to the manliness of men. Many a man, once he matured and particularly having become Christians, have bemoaned the tattoos of their youth.
THE AMAZING GRACE OF GOD: The various books of the Bible repeats the historical events of Israel. Psalm 100 is an example of this. In verses 6 & 7 we are reminded of their repeating the sins of their fathers. Then we read verse 8, “Nevertheless He saved them, for His name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.” Israel was unworthy of God’s grace and we are unworthy of God grace, yet for the sake of his covenant with Israel and his promise of eternal life to believers, He still bestows His grace upon us. Praise His holy name, we don’t thank Him enough for His grace.
LOOKING BACK TO WARMER DAYS: Cold wintery days with the snow, wind and cold rains turns the heart back to warmer spring and summer days. I did many different things to meet the needs of the family and to make it possible to minister to a little church that couldn’t afford to adequately provide for the pastor. One of the ladies who attended our church had a husband who worked for the city to maintain its parks. Through that connection I was able to get the job of mowing the several city parks. I spent many a day mowing around trees, shrubs and picnic tables and sharpening the mowers blades. Actually, it was a good job because I could enjoy the outdoors and it gave me plenty of time to think about the lessons and sermons I had to prepare. Mowing didn’t require a lot of thinking, so often thoughts relating to the sermon were dwelt upon. Being out in Gods creation and enjoying the warmth of His sun was time well spent and though I wasn’t at my desk studying the task was eventually accomplished. Looking back on that special time warms my heart. I often wonder if the people ever appreciated the many things I had to do in order to minister to their spiritual needs. God knows, it was to His glory. Pastors who are able to give their full time to minister are fortunate and no doubt able to put more into their pastorates than I was able to do. Still, the small churches and the development of new churches is an important work too. He knew I was not equipped to minister to larger churches and He had me where He knew I fit best.
THE ODD JOBS; In that same local I did a lot of odd jobs besides mowing. Here is the list: (1) I hauled manure from the fee lots to the fields to fertilize them; (2) I used a shovel digging ditches; (3) I worked in a drug store setting up new counters and shelving; (4) mowing; (5) we had the distribution of a couple different newspapers; (6) I was a substitute mail carrier; and (7) I worked in a variety store. I think I am missing something but it gives you an idea of the things I did for the privilege of pastoring one small church. This of course was before I was with a mission agency and had raised support to do the church-planting ministry. I hope this wasn’t repetitive, I don’t recall whether I shared this before or not.
ILLUSTRATIONS: As difficult as the variety of jobs was while ministering, there was an advantage. I know of some pastors who struggled with finding illustrations for their sermons and lessons. The variety of jobs did provide ample materials for illustrations. When I was less experienced I remember buying a book of illustrations and it was always difficult trying to find an illustration that would fit. It didn’t take me long to learn that the best illustrations come from personal experiences and dealing with people and the circumstances of life. You really don’t need to look any further than that. The sooner a young pastor, evangelist or missionary learns that lesson the easier his task will become. There is no better way to relate to the congregation than out of the pool of life experiences.
NEXT MUSINGS: Parents teaching children to steal.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
February 2009 #2
WORTH CONSIDERING: In recent days I have been considering how fortunate I am to have experienced God’s forgiveness through faith in Christ in the light of the Ten Commandments. God has been merciful to me, deserving eternal condemnation. So it is with all the redeemed. The Ten Commandments condemns us all. When I evaluate each of the commandments I am guilty of breaking them all in the light of Christ’s definition of the their meaning. Though I have never murdered anyone, through anger or hatred I am guilty of murder in my heart. So, it goes down through the list.
When I consider my unworthiness in the light of God’s justice I am indeed fortunate and blessed to have God’s forgiveness, wiping the slate clean through Christ’s cleansing blood. Thus giving me the blessing of a cleansed life along with the promise of one day entering His Heavenly Kingdom. There was a time when I considered myself a pretty nice person, not understanding God’s holiness. Now I understand that I really wasn’t a nice person. I have met and talked with so many people about their need of God’s forgiveness only to have them tell me how they think they are okay and expecting to make it into Heaven when they die. They have never grasped God’s evaluation of sin as defined in the Ten Commandments and by Christ’s definition. They have never viewed them, based upon their heart condition. As a true believer, rejoice in what you have been forgiven of and enjoy the peace that God alone can give. God’s grace, unmerited favor, is ours through faith in Christ. Rejoice!
THE MILO EVENT: when we lived in Ogallala, Nebraska Christmas was approaching and we were very short on funds for Christmas gifts. Kathy was making centerpieces to give to people. We drove outside town to try and find some vegetation that she could use in making the centerpieces. Of course the harvest of Milo was long over but they often miss a few straggling stocks along the edge of the field. I pulled off the edge of the road and proceeded to get a few stalks of Milo for her to put in her centerpieces. When I turned around there was a car stopped behind ours writing down our license plate. I went to the car behind us to see what was going on. The lady was very harsh and informed me that this was her farm field and told me I had no business being on it. It was an unpleasant experience as I tried to explain what I was doing. I also took down her license number and then looked up her address. We decided to have Kathy make up a centerpiece for the lady, made of Styrofoam, little figures and including a sprig of the Milo I had gotten from the field. I then delivered it to her home and handed it to her when she answered the door and quickly left. The next day one of our church men worked at the same place this lady worked and he had told us how embarrassed she was and telling how badly she had felt in being so harsh with me. It was an interesting experience in giving to someone who had been so harsh with me over nothing, collecting a few stalks of Milo after harvest time. Much like the Bible told farmers to leave a little grain to be gleaned by the poor and needy.
THE STIMULUS DEAL: The stimulus for nearly $800 trillion dollars is just about a done deal for President Obama to sign. This is the largest ever governmental give away in the history of our nation and all at the tax payers expense that our grandchildren will be paying off years down the road. From what I have heard and understood there is very little in the package that will do much to create jobs. It is full of goodies that politicians are giving away to benefit their own districts. Will it work, help or hurt, that is the big question. All Republicans, with the exception of three, have refused to sign the bill since they don’t feel of good conscience to put their name on it. Will they be hurt or eventually justified in their rejection? Time will tell. Hopefully it won’t turn out to be a goof up like the first half of the TARP give away that had no accountability attached to it.
CRIME & THE ECONOMY: The bad economy is causing changes in our law enforcement and fire departments. Police and fireman are being laid off, causing a real threat to community safety. Recently Columbus laid off twenty-six police recruits two days before graduation because the city couldn’t afford their salaries. National news is now reporting the increase of assorted crimes in a number of states and large cities. The questions that come to my mind relates to people who are now out of work. Are some of them resorting to crime to try and care for the needs of their families? Or, are criminals now becoming more active because they know the police are short handed and therefore they are less likely to get caught. I was too young during the Great Depression to think about these matters but I wonder if criminal activities increased then as they are starting to do now.
SUPPORT CONCERNS: I have been informed this week of a church dropping my support after many years standing with us. Hopefully the economy isn’t going to create financial problems now for missionaries. Please pray for us, and others that may have similar concerns relating to their support.
When I consider my unworthiness in the light of God’s justice I am indeed fortunate and blessed to have God’s forgiveness, wiping the slate clean through Christ’s cleansing blood. Thus giving me the blessing of a cleansed life along with the promise of one day entering His Heavenly Kingdom. There was a time when I considered myself a pretty nice person, not understanding God’s holiness. Now I understand that I really wasn’t a nice person. I have met and talked with so many people about their need of God’s forgiveness only to have them tell me how they think they are okay and expecting to make it into Heaven when they die. They have never grasped God’s evaluation of sin as defined in the Ten Commandments and by Christ’s definition. They have never viewed them, based upon their heart condition. As a true believer, rejoice in what you have been forgiven of and enjoy the peace that God alone can give. God’s grace, unmerited favor, is ours through faith in Christ. Rejoice!
THE MILO EVENT: when we lived in Ogallala, Nebraska Christmas was approaching and we were very short on funds for Christmas gifts. Kathy was making centerpieces to give to people. We drove outside town to try and find some vegetation that she could use in making the centerpieces. Of course the harvest of Milo was long over but they often miss a few straggling stocks along the edge of the field. I pulled off the edge of the road and proceeded to get a few stalks of Milo for her to put in her centerpieces. When I turned around there was a car stopped behind ours writing down our license plate. I went to the car behind us to see what was going on. The lady was very harsh and informed me that this was her farm field and told me I had no business being on it. It was an unpleasant experience as I tried to explain what I was doing. I also took down her license number and then looked up her address. We decided to have Kathy make up a centerpiece for the lady, made of Styrofoam, little figures and including a sprig of the Milo I had gotten from the field. I then delivered it to her home and handed it to her when she answered the door and quickly left. The next day one of our church men worked at the same place this lady worked and he had told us how embarrassed she was and telling how badly she had felt in being so harsh with me. It was an interesting experience in giving to someone who had been so harsh with me over nothing, collecting a few stalks of Milo after harvest time. Much like the Bible told farmers to leave a little grain to be gleaned by the poor and needy.
THE STIMULUS DEAL: The stimulus for nearly $800 trillion dollars is just about a done deal for President Obama to sign. This is the largest ever governmental give away in the history of our nation and all at the tax payers expense that our grandchildren will be paying off years down the road. From what I have heard and understood there is very little in the package that will do much to create jobs. It is full of goodies that politicians are giving away to benefit their own districts. Will it work, help or hurt, that is the big question. All Republicans, with the exception of three, have refused to sign the bill since they don’t feel of good conscience to put their name on it. Will they be hurt or eventually justified in their rejection? Time will tell. Hopefully it won’t turn out to be a goof up like the first half of the TARP give away that had no accountability attached to it.
CRIME & THE ECONOMY: The bad economy is causing changes in our law enforcement and fire departments. Police and fireman are being laid off, causing a real threat to community safety. Recently Columbus laid off twenty-six police recruits two days before graduation because the city couldn’t afford their salaries. National news is now reporting the increase of assorted crimes in a number of states and large cities. The questions that come to my mind relates to people who are now out of work. Are some of them resorting to crime to try and care for the needs of their families? Or, are criminals now becoming more active because they know the police are short handed and therefore they are less likely to get caught. I was too young during the Great Depression to think about these matters but I wonder if criminal activities increased then as they are starting to do now.
SUPPORT CONCERNS: I have been informed this week of a church dropping my support after many years standing with us. Hopefully the economy isn’t going to create financial problems now for missionaries. Please pray for us, and others that may have similar concerns relating to their support.
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