tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18554982216093274942024-03-05T15:50:44.893-08:00You feed others. Who feeds you?YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-42619331992893496612014-01-29T17:09:00.001-08:002014-01-29T17:09:18.657-08:00<ol class="_3rbf clearfix" data-referrer="pagelet_timeline_recent_ocm" id="u_jsonp_2_d_left">
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">ARE YOU FIRST IN LINE, LAST IN LOVE?<br /><br /> He was zealous to begin with,<br /> Grateful. Just to be chosen. <br /> The sun was hot, but does it even matter?<br /> O for the honor of serving the Master.<br /><br /> But somewhere along the line, he shifted <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> His eye from the owner to the “others”;<br />Instead of laboring for the Lord of the vineyard, <br /> He looked for rights, rewards, recognition.<br /><br /> And so his days stretched long and hard,<br /> Everything became a chore.<br /> He lost the joy of serving in the vineyard<br /> When he forgot God’s grace and call.<br /><br /> Are you first in line, last in love? <br /> Have you forgotten why you came into the vineyard?<br /> Have you become weary? Is your eye envious? <br /> Remember: the last shall be first, and the first last.</span></span></div>
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YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-20618321993150538752014-01-13T21:23:00.000-08:002014-01-13T21:23:24.692-08:00I AM NOT A PRISONER
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Reflections from studying the man Paul as he wrote to his disciples from a Philippian jail (from the book of Philippians):<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I AM NOT A PRISONER<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To the shackles on my feet – <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I stand tall and steadfast as a bond-slave of Christ Jesus,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I can do all things through Him who strengthens</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Me.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I am not a prisoner,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I am not defined by my chains;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To know His power, I count all things as loss,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">For to me to live is Christ, to die is <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Gain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I am not a prisoner - <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Of man-made glory, greats and <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Gods - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">These soon shall pass, but O for the surpassing <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Value of knowing Him, and reaching His upward <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Call.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I am not a prisoner - </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Son of God has set me free</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To serve and suffer for the sake of the gospel,</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To fly beyond these walls, to dare to dream.</span>YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-8630529195499683802014-01-01T17:42:00.001-08:002014-01-01T17:56:21.352-08:00
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I draw a
line on the sand</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And it
cannot be crossed.” (Jer 5:22, The Message)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I draw a
line on the sand</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And it
cannot be crossed.” </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The sea, with
its pride may rush and roar,</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yet must bow
humbly, be hushed, . . . withdraw.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I draw a
line on the sand</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And it
cannot be crossed.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Man may be
smart, he may scheme and soar - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But he’s nothing
till he’s still, and knows He is God.</span></span><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I draw a
line on the sand</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And it
cannot be crossed.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When He orders,
“Move!” No angel can halt; </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When He
says, “Go!” No power in heaven and hell can stop.</span></span><u><span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I draw a
line on the sand</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And it
cannot be crossed.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Why do my
people not stand in awe?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Why do they
dishonor Me, and follow after false gods? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-31496886634645119792014-01-01T17:39:00.007-08:002014-01-01T17:39:58.415-08:00Today is the last day of the year 2013. Here's my wish for everyone: <br />
<br />
COME & SEE<br />
<br />
The disciples were curious,<br />“Teacher, where do you live?”<br />Jesus turned around, waved, and said,<br />“Come, and you will see.” (John 1:39-40)<br />
<br />
The woman at the well was shocked,<br />“He knows everything about me!”<br />“Come, see Him who gives living water.” <br />And those who did believed. (John 4:28, 40-41)<br />
<br />
Mary was afraid and trembling,<br />“Where is my Lord?” she cried.<br />“He’s not here, He’s risen – come see<br />“The tomb’s empty,” the angel replied. (Mat 28:5-7)<br />
<br />
As 2013 draws to a close, <br />Here’s a prayer for you, my friend,<br />May you come every day to Him with curiosity, <br />And see His grace, His love, His plan.<br />
<br />
Come, leave all that behind - <br />The old, bad, ugly;<br />And see Him who knows and cares for you – <br />And Who fills you with fresh grace and beauty.<br />
<br />
Come and see, fear not, He's alive,<br />He lives in you and me - <br />And in anyone who will make room for Him, <br />And say, "Yes, I want to come, and see."YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-5994517328230148822013-12-15T19:17:00.001-08:002013-12-15T19:23:30.099-08:00Still thinking about Christmas and gifts these few days, and came across one of the most tragic rejections of a gift: Numbers 13, when 10 of the 12 spies came back from the land that God had wanted to give them and said, "No go!" <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">GRASSHOPPERS, ANY?</span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They saw the land flowing with milk
and honey </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But chose to focus on the ‘too
strong”, “too many.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They heard the Voice who
led by day and by night</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But listened only to the song:“We’re grasshoppers in our own sight.”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Instead of crying
to Him who called from heaven, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They complained, and cringed under
defeated giants.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Giants that plunder dreams with no power,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And rain on vision with
silent passing showers.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Giants that steal our passion
for faded glory,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And hold us prisoners to
yesterday’s stories.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That make us forget we, too, have dreams; a</span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">nd keep us living </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For</span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> other man's imaginations
- that we can’t fulfill or believe in.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If
God has given you a vision, a dream -</span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That
you can see clearly even when you’re not asleep;</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Starve
your fears, seek hope, silence the doubters - <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Remember: without dreams we live as shadows, with
no faith we miss the mountains.<o:p></o:p></span></span>YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-24994347058243722082013-12-15T18:16:00.001-08:002013-12-15T18:16:47.099-08:00<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">With the Christmas rush for year-end feasting and gift-buying, here's a thought on "things" from Eccl 5.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">THINKING ABOUT THINGS<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Do not love “things.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">“Things” won’t satisfy us.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">They only make us want more (Eccl 5:10).</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Do not think, “If I have more things, my problems will be solved.”</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">“Things” don’t give world peace (Eccl 5:11).</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 12.8px/18px "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />“Things”, in fact, rob us of rest (Eccl 5:12).<br /><br />Do not place security in “things.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />Things don’t belong to us;<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />They rot, get stolen, they must be left behind - every bit of it - when we die (Eccl 5:15).<br /><br />Success in life is not in the gathering of enough “things.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />It will never be enough.<br />Success is in gathering enough wisdom to be satisfied with the much or little we have (Eccl 5:18).<br /><br />Reward in life is not measured by how many “things” we possess.<br />We will never possess "things"; they possess us.<br />Reward is in possessing the time, freedom and health to rejoice in the fruit of our labor with the many or few we love (Eccl 5:19-6:1).</span>YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-15624047740288158792013-12-05T19:35:00.000-08:002013-12-05T19:35:43.006-08:00
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Luke
18:35-19:10 has the back-to-back story of two characters: the blind beggar and
Zaccheus the tax-collector. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here’s a reflection as I thought about year-end wishes, an evangelism talk that's coming up next week:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Zaccheus,
poor Zaccheus, he was too short;<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But
Jesus was coming, he refused to be stopped;<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I’ll
look like a clown, I know, if I climb up that tree,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“So go ahead, laugh at me! Today the Master I must see.”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
blind man, the poor blind man, he was, um, too blind;<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And
people around him weren’t even kind;<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Shh,
get lost, you’re only a beggar!”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Did
that stop him? Ha! No, he cried even louder.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jesus
was busy, but not too busy to stop<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And
say to Zaccheus, “Come down, you and I got to talk.” <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yes,
it was really noisy, but He heard the blind man’s cry,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“From
now on you’re free, come, regain your sight.”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You
see, it’s never ever about whether we’re too short, too blind,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Too
late, too far gone, too shy, too lagging behind;<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What it's
about is do we know when God is passing through,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And
are we ready with an answer when He asks, </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“What do you want me to do for you?” (Lk 18:41)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-24646931251248596972013-12-05T19:28:00.000-08:002013-12-05T19:28:24.539-08:00
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is a season of great needs: need to meet deadlines, entertain, take a break,
Christmas programs . . . and not forgetting Haiyan that rudely interrupted our
ordered lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here's a response from Luke
10:25-42's two back-to-back
stories: the “Who is my neighbor” and the “busy Martha":</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 1em 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT
AM I MISSING TODAY?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 1em 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<span style="font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Lk
10: 28 And He said to him, "You have answered correctly; DO THIS AND YOU
WILL <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">LIVE</span>."</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">There
was a man lying in pain on the road<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">But
the priest and the Levite didn’t even stop to look;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
have ministry to do, messages to share –<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Mission
board meetings, and a church camp to prepare.” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">They
missed the chance to live the eternal life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">There
was a Savior calling, “Come sit at my feet.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Martha had many things to tick off on her list; <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Got
to impress everyone with my talents and gifts,”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Can’t
afford to stop, no time to sit.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">She
missed the chance to listen to the Eternal Life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Can
we stop and see the chances God has given us?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Or
do we scurry through our schedule each day in a rush?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Always
making it on time, but missing the appointed times<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To
give, love, breathe, pause, obey, live the eternal life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-23032432978833639962013-11-02T18:05:00.002-07:002013-11-02T18:05:44.452-07:00
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">IN A LONELY DESERT . . . <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a lonely desert – Moses was called,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jacob woke up from his dream, Elijah grew strong.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a lonely desert God sent manna to His people; <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">He also did, in another deserted place, the five-loaves-two-fish
miracle.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a lonely desert John the Baptist proclaimed,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Repent, the kingdom of God is at hand! Turn from your sin and shame.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a lonely desert a eunuch couldn’t understand - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God sent Philip to explain the Word, he was born again. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a lonely desert Saul the Pharisee was stopped;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And there he learned to see, to feel, and became the
apostle Paul.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Are you in a lonely desert, in a dry forsaken place?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can’t see the hills before you, have you lost your
way?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stop, don’t fear the silence, for our Savior
does His art</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the lonely desert, He speaks, He saves, He strengthens our miserable heart.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So stay, sh-hhh, shut out the sounds that shatter you <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For very soon He'll come and with His still small voice break
through.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-21899164512544730182013-10-22T16:45:00.000-07:002013-10-22T16:45:17.546-07:00Go Sister Go!<br />
Reflections From Luke 10:38-42, Mark 14:3-9 <br />This morning I thought about a woman who, against traditions and fears and disapproval of people around, spent all her money on perfume to anoint Jesus. <br />
<br />
“SHE COULD HAVE SAID”<br />
<br />
She could have said:<br />
<br />
I’m a woman – <br />What can I do? <br />Not even invited; <br />They’ll say I’m rude,<br />Will they stare and talk?<br />Or think that I’m showy?<br />Should I give the money to the poor<br />And make everyone happy?<br />
<br />
But she said:<br />
<br />
I’m a woman –<br />But more than that,<br />Jesus saved me, <br />He freed me of all debts.<br />If I miss my time and chance <br />To do what I can today -<br />Tomorrow I may not have the courage<br />To love God this way.<br />
<br />
She could have been:<br />
<br />
Another fan, another follower, <br />Just like you and me;<br />Another who warmed the pews <br />Same place, same time, each week.<br />Another, perhaps, who served <br />Out of surplus energy and time,<br />Met everyone's expectations,<br />And never went out of line.<br />
<br />
But she was:<br />
<br />
Mary, who long ago decided<br />To love the “only one thing” that’s necessary;<br />Mary, who didn’t allow the “many things”<br />To cause her to fuss and worry.<br />Mary, who when she broke the vial,<br />Shattered all those nice men’s hearts;<br />Mary, who didn’t care that she was a woman<br />When she chose the good part.YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-90836866002586362642013-10-17T20:07:00.000-07:002013-10-17T20:30:52.838-07:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reflection
from Mark 1:32-38<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday
a young campus staff told me, “I turned off technology for one day - as you suggested in the talk on 'Margin'; but when I switched
them on again, I was overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages in my
inboxes!” </span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I didn't say anything. I didn't know what to say. </span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But t</span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">his morning as I prayed, the Lord gave me an answer from Mark 1:32-38. </span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here Jesus faced the same problem as the young campus staff. It was recorded that </span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He hid away to spend time with the Father. </span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And what did He find when He came back? </span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The multitudes . . . . jamming his inboxes.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Many
things” came cramming at the door - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But
where on earth was Jesus?<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">O
He sneaked out "while it was still dark"<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To spend
time alone with the Father.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Many
’many things’ are here!” Peter cried.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Quick!
Give them some attention!”<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But
surprise, surprise, Jesus replied, </span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">"Let's go - a</span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">nd do only the important.”</span></span><br />
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
Life, I discover, has many “many things” that <br />We're not made to rescue all or handle - <br />But we can and must – dare I even say it - <br />Switch off that phone, unplug that computer. <br />And be still and learn from the Only One who knows <br />What are the few that are necessary,<br />And not be ruffled, worried, guilt-ridden, directed<br />By the very many “many.” <br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-16545554676932774632013-10-09T18:09:00.000-07:002013-10-09T18:09:25.852-07:00YOU ARE THE SALT OF THE EARTH (Mat 5:13)<br />
<br />
<em>I am the salt of the earth.</em><br />
<br />
I bring flavor <br />And not seek favor <br />From men.<br />I use words that heal,<br />Shield, defend,<br />Mend. <br />
<br />
I may sting,<br />Even shock,<br />But I won’t bend <br />The truth, I won’t trivialize <br />
The Name of God,<br />The worth of man.<br />
<br />
<em>I am the salt of the earth.</em><br />
<br />
I work on the bland, <br />I don’t blend <br />In.<br />I speak up against <br />Stumbling blocks, shame, <br />Sin.<br />
<br />
I can’t sit on the fence,<br />I can’t play it <br />Safe<br />If I want to stand up<br />For the fatherless,<br />Broken,<br />Enslaved.<br />
<br />
<em>I am the salt of the earth.</em><br />
<br />
I am different. <br />This is who I am, not what I do;<br />This is my voice, my call.<br />But when I become indifferent <br />To who they are, and what they do,<br />I miss. I’m not salt at all.YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-22314006592067807472013-10-06T18:43:00.000-07:002013-10-06T18:50:54.719-07:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO FOR YOU? (Mark 10)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
do you want me to do for you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
do you want me to do for you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">In Mark 10 Jesus
posed this question twice,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
listen to the answers - see who was wise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">First
He asked the sons of Zebedee -</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
to the blind man who called, "</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Have mercy on me!”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">While James and John were His own star pupils,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Blind Bartimeus wasn't in anyone's inner circle. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p>"That's easy," J</o:p></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">ames
and John said, “In the not-too-distant future </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Put
us on your right and left, we have all the credentials;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
won’t regret it, we can really help you,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Besides, we're very gifted in telling others what to do.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“As
for me, Rabboni,” the blind beggar replied,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"All I want right now is to regain my sight.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
don’t really care if I look important or cool;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“I can sit anywhere, but please, let me </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">live life to the full.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
do you want me to do for you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
do you want me to do for you?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This
morning as I read Mark 10, <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
asked me again and again.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To
be honest, I almost prayed,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“More power, less red tapes, definitely more say;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“How can this poor woman serve you efficiently - </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“With all these barriers unless - I've more authority?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">But
thank God, He taught me to say, "I'm only a servant -</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Help </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">me see through the clutter<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of self-importance,</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"With both eyes open, then I can do your will</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"And live each day to the full - and </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">glorify you."</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-89651548490243632452013-09-26T19:54:00.000-07:002013-09-26T19:54:44.473-07:00The Twelve had a great campaign of preaching. healing, and signs and wonders. Then immediately, they failed their next challenge: the feeding of the 5,000 [Mark 6:34-52]. Here's a reflection:<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">So when
Jesus said, “What shall we do? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"Can you see the people are hungry?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The
disciples immediately responded </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">With their calculator, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">they were ready:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ahem, postpone
the project, Lord," </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"Please - </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">send them away.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Cut our losses, we humbly advise - " </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">"O, we're just helping you save face.” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Ah,
it’s not about what we have, is it?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">But obeying all God says.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
“delegation” but “dependence”; </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Not “let’s be practical” - but “let’s pray.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">To do well in ministry, use "</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">the towel" -</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Your "titles" are good only in your offices;</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Forget show-and-tell, bend down, pray,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Surrender, s</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">erve, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">share y</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">our</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">five loaves and two fishes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-29187569156848712552013-09-11T04:44:00.006-07:002013-09-11T04:53:01.157-07:00The Question We Must Ask Everyday<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reflections
from Paul’s conversion encounter with Jesus and testimony from Acts 22<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saul,
born in Tarsus, knew all the answers,</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gamaliel’s
A-Star* pupil had only one ambition – </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Stop
Jesus’ disciples – get them out of my sight!”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Until
God confronted him in bright shining light.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Saul,
Saul,” the Lord asked, “why do you persecute me?” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And
his eyes were opened the day he couldn’t see.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He
had only one question but it forever changed his life,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Got him into
God’s plan: the good, perfect, and wise.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“What
shall I do, Lord?” That’s what he asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">"What shall I do, Lord?" Here's how you and I start;</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each
day, every day, humbly ask the Master,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then
lay down our A-Star* plans, and wait for His answer.<o:p></o:p></span></span>YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-57780926003563917472013-08-29T19:28:00.000-07:002013-08-29T20:44:53.651-07:00MARGIN<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_522014b0cea628d34976390">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">MARGIN <br />“Margin, the space that once existed between ourselves and our limits . . . .” Richard A. Swenson<br /><br /> Today. Put back the margin in your life.<br /><br /> Walk. Slowly. <br /> Life’s about the moments and relationships,<br /> Not simply getting from A to B.<br /><br /> Do. Less.<span class="text_exposed_show"><br />But do it well, with all your might.<br /> With great joy. Do it right.<br /><br /> Don’t. Check. Your. Messages.<br /> Look at me when I'm talking to you.<br /> See? I’m here. I'm not virtual. I’m Real.<br /><br /> Delay. On. One. Decision.<br /> Here's a tip: Pause before you answer. <br /> Pray before you "enter." <br /><br /> Holiness. Is. Wholeness.<br /> Sleep seven hours. Stop at the florist. Take a walk<br /> Have time for people. Be kind to yourself. Love God.<br /><br /> Today. Put back the margin in your life.</span></span></div>
</span></div>
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-6439197036276126202013-07-25T18:28:00.002-07:002013-07-25T18:28:46.179-07:00WHY DO YOU CALL ME GOOD?
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 1em 0in;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Reflection on Mark
10:17-18: “As He was setting out on a journey, a man ran up to Him and knelt
before Him, and asked Him, ‘Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal
life?’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Why do you call Me good? . . . .’” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">WHY DO YOU CALL ME GOOD?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why do you call me “good” – <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">When you hide your dreams from me?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">And zip up tiny little pockets in your heart -<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Surely you don’t think I can’t see?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why do you call me “good” – <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">And make for yourself those secret plans? <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why announce to the world, “I want God’s will” –<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">But crave the nods and praise of man?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why do you call me “good” – <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">But need so much control? <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why toss in bed, dreaming of the bigger and better, <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Losing friends, lovers, your own soul?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Why do you call me “good” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">When I can't be your “one thing” and “best”;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">If you want me to be that "good” in your life,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Take off that mask, let's talk, surrender, . . . rest. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-25846183747802677032013-04-26T18:57:00.001-07:002013-04-26T18:57:41.215-07:00COUNTING & NUMBERSREFLECTION ON I Chron 21, when David displeased God by counting his people.<br />
<br />
<br />
What is wrong with David numbering His people? Wasn’t he just organizing, keeping his accounts? But it displeased God. First there’s the motive: in counting his strength, he was saying, “Look at me. I did it.” And there’s the pride. You see, David’s success did not come from his strength, it came from his submission to God. David’s secret to winning was not in fighting well, but fully trusting in God. His worth was not in his power, possession or people; but in the provision and protection of God.<br />
<br />
I wonder, I wonder, what we are counting today?<br />
Grades? Height? Votes? Facebook friends? Take home pay?<br />
Is our worth measured by the district number of our home?<br />
Or the size of our car, TV, hi-fi, garden, stocks we own? <br />
<br />
But in counting we compare and compete – O what a curse! <br />
Keeps us moving - homes, jobs, continents – even worse;<br />
We pass the curse on and say: “Son, you need more tuition!” <br />
Drain our kids’ childhood dry – with what we call enrichment.<br />
<br />
We count calories and forget how to enjoy a meal,<br />
Analyse food content to death – and every conversation kill; <br />
Rush around to stop time when we learn to count wrinkles,<br />
Lay still to count sheep, and forever lost that sparkle. <br />
<br />
Lose friends and lovers, keeping account of their shortcomings – <br />
While counting what we don’t and can’t have, we miss Jesus’ teaching – <br />
“Seek first God’s kingdom,” He says, “let tomorrow be.”<br />
“I number the hair on your head, don’t forget, you can lean on Me.” <br />
<br />
Today count – only your blessings – look who’s in your life?<br />
Stop and smell the flowers, they won’t stay, be wise.<br />
One more thing, number your days, remember how you began,<br />
He’s already taken care of you this far, He’ll do it again, and again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-89647409046059240862013-04-25T17:41:00.001-07:002013-04-25T17:41:18.537-07:00DOING RIGHT OR RIGHTEOUSNESSThe ark represents the presence of God. But by I Samuel 4, it became a "secret" to success. So the Philistines stole it. But it gave them nothing but trouble so they returned it, and it remained in the home of Abinadad, a Levite, for 20 years. In I Chron 13, David decided to take it back to Jerusalem and here's the story:<br />
<br />
When David was crowned, he said, <br />
“I can’t bear the sight -<br />
“Of the Ark being away for 20 years, <br />
"We must set things right!”<br />
<br />
“Bring it home, it belongs here!” <br />
He told his captains and leaders,<br />
The thing looked so right <br />
In the eyes of the people (v 4).<br />
<br />
The king spared no expenses, <br />
Even designed a new cart,<br />
Never mind that God had said, <br />
“Only Levites carry the Ark.” (I Chron 15:13)<br />
<br />
So it failed, someone died, <br />
And three sober months later,<br />
David did it again, but in God’s old-fashioned way, <br />
And gained His complete approval.<br />
<br />
Do you aim to do God’s will <br />
But say, “Let’s be practical, get a cart”?<br />
The cart of worldly wise and convenience, <br />
Of trends, compromise, short-cuts?<br />
<br />
God doesn't accept our “rights” without righteousness – <br />
This you must know;<br />
Without His blessings, our great and noble <br />
Are but fuss, frustration, at best a big show.YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-5732899247822958572013-04-21T18:13:00.001-07:002013-04-21T18:13:15.285-07:00ON MISSING OUT, A REFLECTION ON TIME<br />
I fear missing out . . . on living<br />
So I cram all my days in - <br />
With meetings, goals, one more plan, dream, objective, <br />
And in fearing, I miss. <br />
<br />
I fear missing out . . . on too many things -<br />
My youth, happiness, promises to keep, <br />
There’s a world to see, castles to build,<br />
And in fearing, I miss.<br />
<br />
I miss living today, <br />
In escaping the demons of my past;<br />
And in fearing the future,<br />
I forget to breathe and laugh.<br />
<br />
I miss the rhythm and beats of life<br />
When I fear the tyranny of time,<br />
In the dread of being late, I sorely miss<br />
The joy of listening to its chimes.YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-23144564694222693322013-04-01T19:42:00.002-07:002013-04-01T19:42:26.007-07:00whatever your might be and might haveMonday March 29, 2013<br />
<br />
REFLECTIONS ON THE GENEALOGY FROM ADAM TO DAVID IN I CHRONICLES 1-4<br />
Might only be a name <br />
In the span of human history – <br />
But all just the same <br />
Each left a legacy. <br />
Might have entered the race, <br />
Not equal in opportunity, <br />
But all just the same, <br />
Each became a memory.<br />
<br />
Might come last like David, <br />
Might come first like Esau. <br />
Like Ruth, might find love in a hostile land, <br />
Or like Tamar, not find love at all. <br />
Might have been Moses, whose place was the palace, <br />
Might have been Elijah, groomed in the wild, <br />
Like Jeconiah, the king, born again in prison, <br />
Or Daniel, the prophet, who won in exile. <br />
<br />
For they dared to dream, they all woke up, <br />
They chose, they fought, they loved, they listened, <br />
Saw their time and chance when time and chance came, <br />
Said, “Yes,” said, “No,” made the right decisions. <br />
So these don’t decide your legacy or memory – <br />
Might be ups, downs, shame or smarts; <br />
All just the same, you write the conclusion <br />
With faith, courage, following after God’s heart. <br />
<br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-34024584718585706672013-03-30T00:46:00.000-07:002013-03-30T00:46:22.510-07:00THE STORY OF TWO KINGSTHE STORY OF TWO KINGS OF JUDAH: third king Asa and the third last king Jehoiachin <br />
(2 Chron 15 & 16, 2 Kings 24:8-16; 25:27-30)<br />
<br />
Fearful young Asa, cried out to God for success,<br />
So God saved him from Ethiopia, God gave him rest (2 Chron 14:6).<br />
But on his 36th year of reign, when the king grew proud and big,<br />
He turned from God to strategies, and died lonely and sick.<br />
<br />
Fearful young Jehoiachin followed his old man’s wicked ways, <br />
So God let Nebuchadnessar imprison him, for 36 years he counted his days.<br />
One evening, Nebu threw his own son in jail - the two men became friends;<br />
And when Nebu died, the Prince went to the throne, and made Jehoiachin a free man.<br />
<br />
I love the stories of these two kings – and here's what I see -<br />
God's ways are amazing, especially to those who are meek.<br />
Don't forget Him when you're strong; when you’re in prison, be calm -<br />
He’s never far, He’s just above you, and underneath are the everlasting arms.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-2595422859022481592013-03-22T19:41:00.001-07:002013-03-22T19:47:03.511-07:00WHAT SACRIFICE ARE YOU MAKING?A reflection on Ahaz the 12th king of Judah (2 Kings 16, 2 Chron 28).<br />
<br />
For Ahaz, king no. 12, “winning” was his goal in life; <br />
His one big solid strategy: “Sacrifice!”“Sacrifice!”“Sacrifice!” <br />
His faith, his values, his call, even his own sons (2 Kgs 16:3); <br />
"Just get me to the top!" he cried. "Let me be number one!" <br />
<br />
“I want God’s blessings!” he claimed. But he sought Assyria for strength,<br />
Sure, he worshipped at the temple, but his fear was man.<br />
Even when friends turned against him, he refused to submit, <br />
So God humbled and disciplined Ahaz, and he made his exit.<br />
<br />
What’s your daily offering at the altar of the high places – <br />
Your sons? Your daughters? Your vows? Your childhood promises? <br />
To get that "job satisfaction", what are you letting go?<br />
What sacrifices are you making just to reach your goal?<br />
<br />
What do you hold on to tightly? What’s your hand? <br />
What gets you out of bed so early? Love for God, really? Or fear of man?<br />
Why do you say, “I have no choice, to succeed this is the rule?”<br />
When humility is the only sacrifice God asks of you?<br />
<br />
So here’s a little test, be honest in your answers:<br />
When was the last time you said, “Later” “Later” “Later” and “Later”?<br />
Later, I will slow down but now is my chance;<br />
Later, I will eat with them; later I shall dance.<br />
<br />
Later, we’ll go on that holiday; later, I’ll stop and read;<br />
Later, I’ll take a walk; later, I’ll plant that seed.<br />
Later, I’ll build my house; later, I’ll make amends.<br />
Later, I’ll switch off that phone; but now, I’ve messages to send. <br />
<br />
But those we put aside for “later” are also on a journey – <br />
They have dreams they must catch, they cannot tarry; <br />
They grow up, they grow old, they’ll stop asking, “Why?”<br />
And when your “later” finally comes, time and chance have passed you by. <br />
<br />
Love God first, follow His rules, let Him build your castle – <br />
He holds every key in His Hand, fear Him – your Lord and Master.<br />
Don’t offer sacrifices that you are sure to regret, <br />
Remember: your humility is the only sacrifice God will bless.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-47932980205688968102013-03-15T03:56:00.002-07:002013-03-15T03:56:04.629-07:00Talk To The Clay - reflections from the visit to the potteryO clay O clay you’re not at all pretty, <br />
But in the master’s eyes you’re a thing of great beauty.<br />
Once you were nothing, actually, a lump.<br />
But now in his hands, your life has begun.<br />
<br />
O clay, O clay, let me give you a few tips - <br />
On how to survive and find your perfect fit.<br />
First, don’t be shocked when you’re thrown on the wheel - <br />
Your world will spin, but don’t panic, keep still.<br />
<br />
The trick is to stay soft when you’re squeezed and pressed,<br />
And when he pours water on you, be grateful, don’t get stressed.<br />
Nah, you won’t drown, he knows what he’s doing –<br />
No need to scream and shout and, for goodness' sake, stop moving!<br />
<br />
Stop saying, “Why O why does it take so long?”<br />
“I want to be in control”, “I need to be strong!”<br />
Let the one who sees from high above<br />
Mold, shape, pedal, bend, do his work of love.<br />
<br />
For now, O clay, life may not feel at all fun<br />
But the master's gentle hands won’t leave you till you're done.<br />
So shut up, sit pretty, submit to his ways - <br />
He is the potter, you are the clay.YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855498221609327494.post-12767537302642516602013-02-24T19:01:00.000-08:002013-02-24T19:01:05.324-08:00BE CONTENTI Timothy 6:6-10 <br />
<br />
<br />
But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.<br />
<br />
When I’m discontent . . . <br />
<br />
I rush from one stop to another<br />
And forget to enjoy the sights.<br />
And miss all the wonderful and good<br />
While checking out Mr. and Miss Right.<br />
<br />
When I’m discontent . . . <br />
<br />
I feel “I must have more to be happy” -<br />
More pay, more say, more my way.<br />
But chasing after the wind is tiring,<br />
And keeps us from living each day.<br />
<br />
When I’m content . . . <br />
<br />
In spite of my needs, wants, and lack,<br />
Size, shape, portion and lot -<br />
I’m saying, “My heavenly Father sees . . .”<br />
“Knows what { who} I can and cannot.”<br />
<br />
When I’m content . . .<br />
<br />
I reflect God’s abundant grace,<br />
All mine, strong and sufficient.<br />
And have time to breathe and play,<br />
And enjoy every conversation.<br />
<br />
Be content, says Jesus.<br />
<br />
There will be enough, I promise you, <br />
No, it’s enough, let tomorrow be.<br />
Only a few things are important,<br />
They’re right before you, they’re free.<br />
<br />
“Why do you labor for what is not bread?” <br />
And live long, bone-exhausted days?<br />
Stop. Take a break. Eat with the ones who love you, <br />
Say no. Switch it off. Be content in me. Obey.<br />
<br />
YKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964588706136106588noreply@blogger.com0