Does God Really Know You?

Marsha Kaitz, a psychology professor at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, did a test to see how well mothers know their babies.  According to the Associated Press, the 46 mothers chosen for the test had all given birth in the previous five to 79 hours.  They had all breast fed their newborn.

Each mother was blindfolded and then asked to identify which of three sleeping babies was her own.  Nearly 70 percent of the mothers correctly chose their baby.  Most of the mothers said they knew their child by the texture or temperature of the infant's hand.  The woman apparently learned the identifying features during routine contact, said Kaitz, because they weren't allowed to study their babies to prepare for the experiment.

70 percent of the Moms could identify their child.  That's pretty impressive.  Even more impressive is Almighty God's ability to know His children.  It's 100%!

That's the word from the psalmist David.  Read Psalm 139 this week to learn more.  David writes it clearly - God knows you through and through.  From the time your alarm clock goes off in the morning until you switch off the bedroom light at night and hit the sack, God knows what you've done, where you've been and what you've said.  There is no place where you can hide from His Spirit.  There is no darkness that can conceal you.  From the moment of your conception until this very moment, God has you on His heavenly GPS screen.

And that's good! When we're honored for our hard work on the job, God knows and rejoices.  When we pound the pavement seeking any kind of a job, God knows and is with you.  God's searching knowledge of us leads us to put down our guard and be transparently honest with Him.  His Law shows how we have offended the Lord and so His Spirit leads us to repentance and faith.  His Gospel reassures us of the Lord's forgiveness and salvation.  We have His promise - the Lord will lead us in the way everlasting.  May God bolster your faith as you pray Psalm 139 this week.

It was a mighty fine week

We began the week with visitors from Peoria - Todd and Jo.  We hiked Fernwood Botanical Gardens and then sipped a glass of wine at a local winery with great views.  Tuesday we walked the bluff and had some beautiful views of Lake Michigan.  On Wednesday they left and so did my dear, sweet wife.  Sherri attended the Juice Plus conference in Indianapolis.

While she was gone Jake (our sweet dog) and I batched it.  I didn't have a car so we stuck close to home.  Did our mile and a half morning walk, did some "honey do" chores, watched the Arizona Cardinals lose another game they should have won and just took it easy.  Sherri returned on Friday and we binge-watched several more episodes or "White Collar," which is soon to leave Netflix.  Sherri is especially unhappy with this development.

Saturday Sherri attended a woman's retreat at church and I traveled with my youngest daughter and my grandson to Holland Michigan to watch him play in a soccer game.  His team has been together for three years and they are beginning to play like a real team.  Quick movement of the ball on offense with tenacious defense.  They really are fun to watch and they were the victors 5 to 3.

Yesterday we went to Bible class and church.  The Bible class is led by someone who has become a good friend.  He is an excellent teacher and I was pleased that he unpacked Psalm 77, one of my favorites. After church we went out to celebrate his wife's 70th birthday.  I want to say that she is 70 years young because she had a cheerful spirit and caring heart.  We'll miss them when we leave Michigan.

This week we begin packing for our return home.  It had been a wonderful summer but I'm ready to go.  I'll be back in the swing of things, so to speak, by preaching on Sunday at Christ the Redeemer and teaching on Thursday at Church of the Master.  And I'm finally going to start working on the book of devotions that I've talked about for years.  

That was my week.  Hope yours is enjoyable and filled with God's blessings!

How To Size Up A Person

In Matthew, chapter 15, Jesus said to a crowd: Listen and understand.  What goes into a man's mouth does not make him "unclean," but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him "unclean."

The Pharisees, Jesus' self-righteous enemies, considered a person unclean or unacceptable to God by failing to keep their regulations and traditions.  The Pharisees rule book far exceeded the commands of God.  For example, the Pharisees had very specific regulations about when and how a person should wash their hands.  But the people were expected to know and to keep every little rule.

The disciples didn't quite get what Jesus meant and asked him to explain His little parable.  Here's verses 16-20: Are you still so dull? Jesus asked them.  Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of a mouth come from the heart and these make a man "unclean."  For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.  These are what make a man "unclean;" but eating with unwashed hands does not make him "unclean."

Jesus does something very revealing here.  He described the defilement of a person in much different terms than the Pharisees.  The Lord teaches that defilement comes from an impure hearts.  What seperates a person from God is not what they eat but by their sinful and unrepentant ways.

So if you really want to know what a person is made of just listen to what they say and write.  Do their words defend or accuse? Do their words lift up or tear down.  Do their words frame a person's actions in the best and kindest way or is their goal to hurt and ruin a reputation.  Oh, we all need to repent for things we've said and done that failed to keep God's command.  Have mercy on us, O Lord! Still, if you really want to know what is in a person's heart, then do as Jesus advises - hear what comes out of their mouth.

The difference between darkness and light

Darkness is not knowing God and, even worse, not realizing that you are living for Satan.  Darkness is confusion over goodness and evil; it is not really understanding that true goodness can only be inspired by God's grace.  Darkness is looking at death with a big question mark or, more honestly, in complete fear.  Light is the opposite.  A person who stands in the light of Jesus and His revelation of God the Father knows God, flees the devil, loves good, hates evil.  He know that he can face death, for in Christ he has already died and risen again, and that his death is but a continuation of the life he now has but far greater.

from "Gospel Motivation" by Robert J. Koester, Northwestern Publishing House, page 113. 

The Friday Funny

A pastor and a lawyer arrived at the pearly gates.  St. Peter greeted both of them and gave them their room assignments.

"Pastor, here are the keys to one of our nicest efficiency units.  And for you, sir (the lawyer) here are the keys to our finest penthouse suite."

The pastor cried, "This is unfair.  Shouldn't I be given the better place?"

St. Peter replied, "Listen, pastors up here are a dime a dozen, but this is the first lawyer we've seen!"

(Apologies to all lawyers)

Handle with Care!

I received a package the other day with a huge sticker which read, "Handle With Care!" That got my attention. How do we deal with such packages?  We pick them up more gingerly.  We sit them down more carefully.  An ordinary package might get tossed on the kitchen table or in the trunk of our car.  Not so with a "Handle With Care" package.  We want to protect the contents of the package.  We want to make sure that nothing is damaged or broken.  "Handle With Care" packages are special and important.

According to Psalm 121, God sees you as His very special "Handle With Care" person.  Five times in eight verses, we learn that God "watches" over you.  The root of this word in the Hebrew language means "to exercise great care over."  How does God show great care for you?

Psalm 121 tells the story - God gives you His undivided attention.  He is watching you at all times, not just when it is convenient for Him.  Even when you are asleep, God is wide awake, watching and caring for you.  The psalmist makes it clear that there is no trial or trouble that can separate you from your Heavenly Father's protection and care.

Next time you're tempted to wonder if God is really paying attention to you, remember verse eight - "The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more."  This promise is sure and certain and it is for you! 

Excel at greeting guests and visitors

In watching the videos of those who went to church the Sunday following the Charlie Kirk assassination I was cheered to hear so many speak of how warmly they were greeted.  The regular church goer does not realized that one of the most frightening things a person can do is attend a church where you don't know a soul and have no idea what is waiting for you when you arrive.

So, how does your church do in this important work?  If someone were to visit your church for the first time would they grade you church as warm and welcoming?  Would your church receive a passing grade?

Can I make a few suggestions? First, "good morning" is barely a greeting, especially to a newcomer.  With many folks it sounds perfunctory.  If a greeter welcomes someone they do not recognize, say: "Good morning! I don't believe I know you.  My name is ______."

99 times out of 100 the person will respond with their name.  They might even tell you that they are new to the area and looking for a church.  Or they might say that it is their first time attending your church.  With that information you can make sure they receive a bulletin or newsletter.  If your church has some kind of welcoming gift, make sure they receive one.  Help them find a place to sit (visitors usually are more comfortable in the back of the sanctuary.)  If they have children or youth, let them know where their kids might want to go.

When greeters make a good first impression it's that much easier for the pastor to connect with the visitor after the service.  And that goes a long way toward encouraging that person or family to return again.

Excel at greeting guests and visitors.  With everything happening in the world today, you might just come across someone who is seeking hope and peace.  What a privilege to point that person to the giver of lasting hope and peace, our Lord Jesus.

The Charlie Effect

I started watching the videos last night and they're still coming.  One person after another sharing that they had gone to church yesterday.  Some were returning after being away for a few years.  Others attended after being absent for 15 or 20 years.  A few went to church for the first time.

And I was amazed at the number of folks who explained that last week they purchased a Bible.  Others told how they went and found a Bible that had been given to them a few or many years ago and started reading.  Most of those folks had some knowledge of the Scriptures.  A few mentioned that they were introduced to the Bible at Vacation Bible School.  One young lady told of how her family read a chapter of the Bible each night before sitting down to dinner.  When she left home she gave up that practice.  But last weekend she went home and at the family dinner table she read the Bible with her family.

They are calling it the "Charlie effect."  I think it's just another example of God taking something meant for evil and using it for good.  God has a way of doing that.  Just look to the cross.  The evil of the devil and sinful men was trumped by the blood Jesus shed on that cross which covers our sins and make us acceptable to the Father.  I owe my forgiveness and salvation to an evil act which God used for my good and for the good of the whole world.

Does this mean that I'm glad Charlie was killed? Of course not.  Oh, if there was just a way of rewinding time.  We could spare the evil done to Charlie.  He would be home with his amazing wife and children.  He would be planning for future events.  He would have more opportunities to challenge young people to think about what they espouse.  He would continue to be free to witness his faith in and love for Jesus Christ.

Instead, I suspect that there were thousands and thousands, here in America and throughout the world, who attended church for the first time or after an absence of years. I pray that they heard a message rooted in the grace that is found in Christ alone.  And there have been thousands of requests for help in planting new Turning Point groups on High School and College campuses.  

Will all these people return to church next Sunday? Who knows.  I remember how packed churches were after 9/11.  Many of the folks who came to church then stopped coming after a few weeks or a few months.  

Still, I was so encouraged by the videos that I watched.  These people were not pledging to join Turning point or become Republicans.  No, it was church they were returning to.  Looking for direction.  Seeking answers.  Wanting to make sense of faith.  Wanting to learning who Jesus is and what He can do to change their lives.

Isn't it amazing what one man's witness of faith and love for Jesus can do in the world?  

Make heaven crowded

I have to admit that I didn't know much about Charlie Kirk and his Turning Point organization.  I was aware that he was a willing and effective debater and intentionally walked into the lion's den of collage campuses to have civil (mostly civil) discussions with those who disagreed with his beliefs.

Nevertheless, I was shocked to learn of the shooting and his death from an assassin's bullet.  And in the past three days I have been stunned and  dismayed at those who have gleefully celebrated his death.

Shall we be surprised at such an outpouring of hatred and evil?  Jesus taught in Matthew 24:9; 11-13 - Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by many nations for my name's sake.  And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.  And because of lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Charlie Kirk has been described as a political activist and a conservative commentor.  And much worse.  But first and foremost he wanted to be remembered as a man of faith, a disciple of Jesus, saved by grace through faith in the shed blood of his Savior on the cross of Calvary who rose from the dead on the third day.

Apparently he often told his wife that his goal was to "make heaven crowded."  I love that phrase.  I recently taught a Bible study on the last words of Jesus.  The Lord taught "Make disciples" by baptizing and teaching; "Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to all creation;" "Be my witnesses."  

And what is the result when the church takes seriously the last words of Jesus? Sinful people are saved.  The lost are found.  Repentance, faith and salvation are worked in the life of a lost soul.

Heaven becomes crowded.

Of course, there is no way that God's kingdom can run out of space.  But you catch Charlie's drift, don't you.  Each time a person confesses Christ Jesus as the one Way, Truth and Life, Satan mourns.  And fumes. But the devil give up or wave a white flag.  The evil one works that much harder and by any means necessary to fill hearts with hatred for God's confessing people.  And from what I have read the past few days on social media, Satan is having some success.

It seems very true - the love of many has grown ice cold.  But we don't despair.  It is only a matter of time before Jesus triumphal return and the devil takes his place in his permanent resident, #1 Burn in Hell Avenue.

Until then, let's contend for Biblical morality.  Let's love our enemy but not give an inch to them.  Let's show and share the Gospel so that more and more have what you and I have been blessed with - forgiveness of sin, power for daily living through the Spirit, and the certain of hope of eternal life.

Let Charlie Kirk's goal be ours as well.  

Make heaven crowded.

Christ's footsteps are so big

I don't have to match Christ's footsteps when it comes to my salvation.  They are just too big and deep for anyone to do that.  And it is not necessary.  When Peter wrote "Christ suffered for you..." He was referring to a done deal.  Christ took that deep step down from heaven, that giant step up to the cross, that horrible step into hell's suffering, and that victorious step out of the grave, He took steps that only God could, and because He did, my salvation is complete.  I don't even have to walk to heaven; the Savior will carry me.

Richard Lauersdorf 

Wisdom from Norman Nagel

It is only because God has come to be our Father that we can pray to Him.  Only because Christ has taken away our sins on Himself and wiped them out by His victorious death can we stand before God, forgiven, His children in Christ. Only as we are bound to Christ can we come before God as His children, for then God sees us in Christ, wearing the garment of Christ's righteousness.  This is the key to a living connection with God our Father.  All contact, all prayer with Him must be in Christ, in the name of Jesus, that is, with faith in Him.

From "Selected Sermons" page 139. 

Top Ten Discoveries Made Around the Church Office

10)       Pastor complains of one sleepless night after another when unable to get the VBS songs out of his head.

9)         Secretary is fed up having to hum the hymns to the pastor each week because “He can’t remember how they go.”

8)         Church custodian feels taken advantage of when told to wax the fellowship hall floors and the pastor’s car.

7)         Pastor discovers there is no place to hide from the head organist.

6)         Church staff refuses to call the pastor, “The Sermoninator.”

5)         The secretary tries to talk the pastor out of his latest outreach idea, “Reverse Offering Sunday” where visitors get to take money out of the offering plate.

4)         Office computers still function poorly even when upgraded to Windows ’98.

3)         Pastor blows a gasket when he reviews the Sunday bulletin and finds that the secretary has placed a “sad face” next to Confession, a “happy face” next to Absolution and a “sleeping face” next to the sermon.

2)         Church staff surprised to learn that the new copier is coin operated; color copies require a credit card.

1)          Pastor practices his “side hugs” on office staff.  Custodian threatens to “punch him out.” 

Today's Friday Funny

Master to dog: No more food! Your dog food bag says 1 cup.

Dog to Master: The Oreo box doesn't say 16 Oreos either so what are we going to do?

Master to dog: Ok, one more cup and that's it!

Dog to master: Oh, sorry.  I ate the rest of the Oreos. 

Forgiveness is the air we breathe

Pastor Frank Starr wrote a  series of devotional book entitled, "Light For The Way."  The books are over 30 years old and out of print.  But I've found them to be a good tool for daily Bible reading.

I have copies a number of Starr's comments over the years in my journals.  I especially appreciated this one on forgiveness:

The Lord's forgiveness and restoration is the air we breathe, and breathing this air inspires us to share forgiveness and restoration with those around us.

"Light For The Way," Book 1, page 72 

The Christian Way

The Christian way is different; harder and easier.  Christ says, "give me all.  I don't want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want you... no half-measures are any good. I don't want to cut off a branch here and a branch there. I want to have the whole tree down...Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked - the whole outfit.  I will give you a new self instead. I will give you Myself; my own will shall become yours."

CS Lewis from "The Joyful Christian" 

God is always there to help

Psalm 77 is a favorite of mine.  Verse 19 gives me so much comfort.  You should check it out.

Here is Martin Luther's take on this Psalm:

The 77th Psalm is a psalm of instruction.  The psalmist uses himself as an example of how to find comfort when affliction comes and the conscience is troubled, as if God is angry with it.  He says that he was so troubled that he could not have any sleep or even speak.  But this comfort follows: The psalmist can fight off the thoughts with which he futilely suffered, and he can grasp instead the thought of the mighty works of God in the histories of old.  Here we find that God's work was to help the miserable, the troubled, and the abandoned, and to throw down the self-secure, proud scoffers, for example,when He delivered the children of Israel from Egypt.  

For this reason His paths are called "hidden."  He is there to help when we think that we are totally abandoned.  We should learn this well.  God intends by this psalm to show us and teach us His manner of helping, namely that he never abandons us when things go ill.  Instead, we should wait upon His help at that time with the greatest confidence and not believe our thoughts.


From, "Reading the Psalms With Luther," page 181

You Might Be A Preacher If...

My daughter, Stephanie, gave me a nifty little book for my birthday one year.  It was titled, "You Might Be a Preacher If..."  Some of the insights were pretty funny.  To these I've added a few of my own.

You might be a preacher if...

People at the wedding reception can't wait for you to leave.

Your office is "prayer conditioned."

You would rather walk on a bed of hot coals than play "Bible Trivia Pursuit."

You've thought of serving Starbucks coffee during the coffee hour.

You've been asked what it's like to work just one day a week.

You know what a Narthex is.

You've answered a phone call at 2 am and your congregational member said, "I hope I'm not bothering you, Pastor."

You've been asked to offer a prayer for one of your members...when there are two minutes before the service.

When a person takes the communion wine and says, "That's mighty good!"

During the hymns you take a quick attendance count.

You argue with the ushers over the attendance count.

You've got a fabulous sermon on humility.

Reconnecting with old friends

One of the goals my dear sweet wife and I set for ourselves this summer was to reconnect with some old friends with whom we had lost touch.  These were people who came into our lives at just the right time - when we needed a friend, people who provided support and encouragement, people who truly enriched our lives.  We felt somewhat ashamed that we had lost contact with them so it was our aim to reconnect with those who were/are dear to us.

Randy and Ellen were members of the first congregation I served in Missouri.  Randy was our head elder; Ellen turned out to be our best ambassador.  Their service enriched our church.  Randy could be counted on to provide wise counsel.  Ellen was a winsome witness of the Lord's goodness and mercy.  The lived about a half-dozen houses away from ours so we saw lots of each other.  When I took a call to a church in South Carolina our contact was mostly through Facebook and Christmas cards.  But after awhile we just didn't reach out to each other.

But we got them to come and visit our summer home.  What a joyful reunion! We spent much time catching up, shared some of the good and not so good times our families had experienced, ate some good food and went to a tribute concert (the Dolly Parton character was spot on!).  When Randy and Ellen departed we vowed to stay in touch and promised to meet again next summer.

Then there was Bill and Raydine.  When I moved our family to Missouri for an opportunity for radio station ownership the first thing we did was seek out a church.  It was there we met Bill.  He was the president of the local bank.  He introduced us to Raydine and discovered that they had a son that was two days older than our son.  During the five years we were in close contact we spent numerous nights watching our boys play basketball.  We also went on a medical mission trip together.  The two of them were such a blessing to us.  But then we moved and they moved and we drifted apart.

Sherri discovered that Bill and Raydine were traveling to a family camp that would take them through our community.  We got them to visit and they spent the night with us.  Again, as we did with Randy and Ellen, we vowed to stay in touch.  So a week later when our doorbell rang Bill and Raydine were there.  Bill joked, "We liked it here so much we thought we stay a few more days!"  Actually, they brought us a gift and invited us to visit them in their home.  We just might do that.  But in the meantime we promised each other that we would stay in contact.

Then there was Callie.  We met her at a camp for at risk children.  She melted our hearts with her lovely smile and sweet personality.  When the camp ended we were able to stay in touch with her.  We took her to dinner (she never finished a single meal!) and movies she wanted to see.  She participated in theatre and dance at her school and we were overjoyed to see her excel.  Eventually she was reunited with her grandparents and our time spent with her became less and less until we lost contact with her.

But this summer we discovered that she lived only a couple of hours from where we are.  We met half-way for lunch and enjoyed learning what life was like for her.  We also met her three children - so cute! Again, we promised that we would meet again next summer and exchanged phone numbers so we could text or call.

A number of verses in Proverbs talk about the importance of friendship.  We recognize that one of the Lord's great gifts to us are the people He brings into our lives.  Friends who provide love, companionship, help, counsel  and fun.  Have you lost contact with someone with whom you shared a joyous relationship? We learned that its never too late  to reconnect with old friends.  You might consider doing the same.

Even though you do see Him

 

As I was doing some devotional reading yesterday, I was struck by these words from the Apostle Peter: Though you have not seen Him (the Lord), you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.  1 Peter 1:8-9.

How is it that Peter can write with such confidence? How is it that he can be so sure that his readers are filled with such a trusting faith in Jesus?

The explanation to the Third Article of the Apostles' Creed in Luther's Small Catechism remind us that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.

The Holy Spirit works faith in our hearts and gives us the saving knowledge of Jesus as Lord and Savior.  With this faith we can trust Jesus for forgiveness and salvation, rejoice in our new life of faith and find comfort in our Lord in all the seasons of our lives.  With the help of the Spirit, we believe in our Savior even though we do not see Him!

The psalmist Asaph speaks to this same kind of faith.  In Psalm 77, Asaph complains about the difficulties of life.  He has suffered so much and, without any relief, is beginning to wonder if God has forgotten about him.

But then Asaph begins to meditate on God's Word.  He remembers God's mighty deeds.  He recalls God's gracious help and deliverance when the people were freed from bondage.  He writes in 77:19 - Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters, though Your footprints were not seen.

Faith enables us to know that God is with us even when our eyes can't see Him.  His Word assures us that God will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).  This week offer thanks to the Holy Spirit who empowers you to know and trust Almighty God even when you can't see Him.  God is with you!

One Key to a Happy Marriage

 My dear. sweet wife and I have been married 53 years.  As we prepared to make our vows we struck an agreement.  Any big decision that needed to be made would be done by me.  All small decisions would be made by Sherri.

 It is remarkable that in 53 years we've never had one big decision to make? Lucky me!

Books on the nite stand

One reason I look forward to summer is so I can carve out as much time as I want to read.  This summer I've taken to reading biographies.  So far I've plowed through book about Johnny Carson, John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Art Garfunkel, John McEnroe, Norm McDonald, Alice Cooper, Nate Bargatze, Charlie Chaplin and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  I've also read two books written about the 2024 election; one was, to coin a phrase, "fair and balanced," and one which portrayed President Trump in a very negative light while minimizing the weaknesses and making excuses for his opponent.  As I was looking over my list I thought to myself, "It's only July! How many more books can I read before the end of summer?"  We shall see.

Presently I've reading:

"Executive Privilege," by Phillip Margolin.  The author is a former attorney turned author.  A friend of mine who worships at the church I serve during from October to April is an avid reader and is always passing along books he thinks I will enjoy.  This story is about a cover up at the highest levels of US government.  I'm only about half way through and I've found Margolin a clever and enjoyable writer and I'll definitely read some more of the Margolin books my friend gave me.

"To Rescue the Republic," by Bret Baier with Catherine Whitney.  This book tells of the political upheaval that took place in our country following the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant and his work of bringing reconstruction to a divided nation.  I've read two other books by Baier.  He's an engaging writer and easy to read.  Already I've thinking that once I get going with this book it will be hard to sit it aside.

"Law & Gospel - How to Read and Apply the Bible" by CFW Walther.  This book was the first one I read at the Seminary.  How important is it to get Law and Gospel right?  Walther wrote: You many correctly state what the Law says and what the Gospel says.  But when you frame your statement so as to combine both, you produce poison for souls.  Remember, while Law and Gospel are both God's Word, they are different kinds of doctrine."

This edition I'm reading is the Reader's Edition published by Concordia Publishing House about 15 years ago.  I had this book in my library.  I loaned it out and it never came back.  So this summer I ordered a new copy and am rereading the book, something which every pastor should do every few years.  It's been a joy to read!

People who know me are aware of my interest in shopping at thrift stores or going to estate sales.  You never know what you'll find but I consider it a success if I find one more book to add to my library.  Happy reading! 

You did good, God, You did real good.

My dear, sweet wife and I enjoy the Hallmark Channel series, "When Calls the Heart."  The series is somewhat based on the books of Janette Oke and focuses on a school teacher and the community she lives in which is located in the northern Canadian frontier. 

I had read that the tv series deviated quite a bit from Oke's books so I decided to take a look for myself.  I just finished reading the first novel and it was one of those "can't put it down" kind of books.

Oke is a wonderful, descriptive writer who transports you into the school teacher, Elizabeth's life.  Elizabeth is sent to the middle of nowhere to teach a community of children.  This "city girl" is determined to adapt to her new lifestyle.  She learns not to fear coyotes or give the mice the upper hand in her home.  Elizabeth also falls in love - with the children she teaches and a certain Mountie where love is truly at first sight.

One of the boys Elizabeth teaches is named Andy.  He is cheerful and well loved by his class.  But he is sickly and suffers from a brain tumor.  The children and community raise the money needs so that Andy can undergo surgery but the young lad does not survive.  

Later, the community comes together for a Memorial Service for Andy.  As they walk out to the cemetery, Elizabeth is overcome with emotion.  And this is how Oke describes what Elizabeth is feeling:

I cried then, the great sobs shaking my whole body.  I remembered the last time that I had wept, and how the little boy in my embrace had reached up awkwardly, and yet tenderly, to brush away my tears.  "You did good, teacher," he had whispered.  And now that small boy had passed beyond - so young to journey on alone.  But then I remembered that he hadn't traveled alone - not one step of the way, for as soon as the loving hands released him here, another Hand had reached out to gently take him.  I tried to visualize him entering that new Land, the excitement and eagerness shining forth on his face, the cheers raising from the shrill little voice.  There would be no pain twisting his face now, no need to hold his head and rock back and forth.  Joy and happiness would surround him.  I could almost hear his words as he looked at the glories of heaven and gave the Father his jubilant ovation - "You did good, God; You did real good!"

I loved her reference to Psalm 23:4 and her description of how God makes all things new for those who enter His kingdom.  Andy would no longer struggle or suffer with his health.  Instead, he would have all eternity to marvel at the goodness of a loving God who keeps His promise that all who believe in Jesus will not perish but have eternal life.  And that is our hope too.

When my former church, Life in Christ, was planted, Pastor Vern Trahms would close with the song, “God is So Good.”  Every week we would sing verses like, “He forgives sin,” or “He answers prayer,” or “He’s Coming Soon,” always with the refrain, “He’s so good to me.”

And God’s not done.  Martin Luther told his worshippers to imagine God as being like an ever flowing fountain, never running out of water, always giving more than you could ever handle.  So, God keeps on forgiving sin and answering prayer and promising that He will return again make right what sin caused to go so wrong. 

So as you prepare for worship this weekend, do an inventory of all God has done and is still doing in your life.  And when you're doing you, too, might be moved to pray, "You did good, God.  You did real good!"

Essential or non-essential?

Are you an essential worker or are you considered non-essential?  That’s the big debate these days.  Which workers do we really need to serve us and who are those we can do without?

I’m sure the debate of essential vs non-essential workers will continue for a while.  But be encouraged today - as far as God is concerned you are essential.

Another definition for essential is extremely important.  You are so important to God that He didn’t leave your salvation up to you.  He sent HIs only one Son, Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life and became the perfect sacrifice for all your sins.  Without Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection we would be lost forever.

You are so important to God that He sent the Holy Spirit to teach and enlighten you to the truth of His Holy Word.  The Bible is like a two-edged sword.  It slices through the clutter of your life so that you might have what is truly essential – faith and forgiveness in Jesus, making use of God’s gifts like Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and trusting in God’s promise that there is a place in heaven for you.

And you are so important to God that He promises to be there for you whenever you need Him.  God says your prayers will be heard.  You’ll be provided your daily bread.  You’ll receive protection from evil.  You may not be an essential worker.  But you are essential part of God’s family and He cares for you.

We pray: Thank You, O Lord, for the reminder that You consider us extremely important.  Thank you for showing us all what You did to secure our salvation.  May that love move us to serve you more and more each day.  Amen.

Found on a church sign

Honk If You Love Jesus...

Text While Driving If You Want to Meet Him” 

Is yours a "going" church

 Many churches mark their progress by how much they have grown from year to year.  Are weekly offering totals increasing?  Has worship attendance grown from one year to the next?  Is our membership showing growth?

 Last Sunday I led a Bible class on a study of the "Last Words of Jesus," as found in the 4 Gospels and Acts.  We focused on the Matthew text, 28:16-20, and noted that Jesus gave the command to "go!"  Go and make disciples by baptizing and teaching.  

 So I asked the question, "Is your church a "going" church?  Is your church going out into your community, showing and sharing the love of Jesus? What are you doing to attract the community to your church, via VBS, Trunk or Treat, special concerts or services and the like? Are you teaching your members to know how to invite family or friends to visit the church on a Sunday.

 It seems to me that all those things that we consider growth items, i.e. offerings, attendance, membership, will take care of themselves when the church focuses on "going!"

 Rev. Dr. Scott Murray gives an example of what I believe is a "going" church.  He writes in "A Lutheran Perspective of Worker Wellness:" During Hurricane Harvey, which causes so much damage in Houston in 2017, I was on the West Coast.  I didn't arrive back in Houston for another week after its landfall.  While I was gone the people of my parish prepared and served over 1500 meals for those who were stranded, flooded out of their homes, or first responders.  I didn't do a single thing to organize this.  This is just what biblically trained Christians do when there is a need.

 In one of my congregations a member took issue with me when I said that Word and sacrament ministry was the main focus of the church.  He couldn't see that when we place the emphasis where it needs to be, people, motivated by the love of Jesus, will find ways to live out the gift of faith they've been given by going and making disciples by baptizing and teaching.  Pray that your church will focus on going and not just growing.  The one will take care of the other.

The Gospel issues no orders

Rather, it changes people.  It plants love into their heart and makes them capable of all good works.  It demands nothing but gives all.  Should not this fact make us leap for joy?

CFW Walther, "Law and Gospel - How to Read and Apply the Bible," page 20 

The Friday Funny on a Thursday

 Food for thought...Incorrectly is the only word that, when spelled correctly, is still spelled incorrectly.

 Have a happy 4th!

Where the Lutheran Church is growing

 According the the Veith and Sutton book, "Authentic Christianity," there are "reportedly 70-90 million Lutherans in the world."  They go on to write, "But Lutheran church bodies, like those of other theological traditions, come in both liberal and conservative varieties...northern European nations have become highly secularized.  Church attendance is miniscule, though church membership remains high."

 They go on to write, "Today, the real center of Lutheranism is not in its European lands of origin but in Africa and Asia...there are more than 20 million in Africa and more than 10 million in Asia.  The fastest growing Lutheran Church is in India."

 Interestingly, the African and Asian Churches are mostly liturgical in their worship.  There is an emphasis on traditional worship, and utilization of Word and Sacraments.

 What can we learn from these growing churches.  Maybe we don't need "seeker services," modern worship choruses, and pastors so casually dressed that they look like they walked off a beach.  Mainline Lutheran Churches in America are still bleeding members. 

 Perhaps it's time for us to get back to what we do best: let God serve us in the Divine Service, cherish the Liturgy which is nothing more than God speaking to us and we, in turn, speaking back to Him, placing the emphasis on Law/Gospel preaching, singing the great hymns of the church and coming with humble hearts to receive our Lord's body and blood in the Holy Supper.  I wonder what work the Holy Spirit might do if we were to return to what got us here in the first place? 

 

Top 10 Signs the Pastor is Watching Too Much Fox News

10) Church meeting no longer run past 8 pm so pastor doesn't miss Jesse Watters

9) Urges his wife to dress more classy like Martha McCallum

8) Promotes new audio Bible read by Tyrus

7) Upset when church council won't allow books by Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino and Bret Baier in the church library

6) In nod to popular program, "The Fivem" pastor now calls the sermon, "The 25"

5) Tries to deliver his sermons with the passion of Sean Hannity

4) Replaces coffee and donuts with the Super Beets he saw on Fox

3) Names his new born son, Yingst

2) Now calls the Scripture Readings "Notable Quotables"

And the number one sign your pastor is watching too much Fox News:

1) Ends each sermon with the words, "Still fair, balanced and unafraid!"

Love isn't love until you give it away

            Actress Mary Martin was on the road performing in the musical, “South Pacific.”  Just before going on stage she received a note from a dear friend, lyricist, Oscar Hammerstein.  The short note said: Dear Mary, a bell’s not a bell until you ring it.  A song’s not a song till you sing it.  Love in your heart is not put there to stay.  Love isn’t love till you give it away.”

            One picture of Jesus that the Gospels provide is how His ministry was marked by the love He gave away.

            St. Mark tells us of a leper who was healed by a willing Jesus – the cured man was on the receiving end of Jesus’ love.  A large crowd gathered around Jesus and he had compassion on them by providing a meal from only a few fish and loaves of bread – the crowd was on the receiving end of Jesus’ love.  In spite of the disciples, parents were invited to bring their children to Jesus so that He could bless them – the children were on the receiving end of Jesus’ love.

            As Jesus walked with His disciples on the road up to Jerusalem He explained, according to Mark’s Gospel, that “the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and teachers of the law.  They will condemn Him to death and will hand Him over to the Gentiles, who will mock Him and spit on Him, flog Him and kill Him.  Three days later He will rise.”  And then it happened just as Jesus said.  And we – you and I – were on the receiving end of Jesus’ love!

            “Love isn’t love until you give it away.”  Jesus gave His very life for us so that we might be redeemed from God’s wrath and punishment for our disobedience.  Having shed His blood on the cross, Jesus reconciled us to our heavenly Father.  Having become God’s children through faith in Jesus, we receive every blessing that God can give – forgiveness for our sins, peace to sooth our hearts, and love which assures us that nothing can separate us from our Lord.

            Jesus took your sins upon Himself.  He suffered the punishment you deserved.  He gives you credit for His perfect life and makes you righteous and holy before the Father.  If that’s not love, then love doesn’t exist.  To whom can you give the love of Jesus? Your spouse? Your kids? A suffering friend? God has planted the love of Jesus in your heart by the Holy Spirit.  Be sure to joyfully and with thanksgiving give that love away! 

From April 2021

Top 10 Complaints from Church Members

10)If you don’t stop this praise band stuff I’m going to set the guitars and drums on fire!

9) Why in the world did we build a pulpit if you won’t use it? Stand still!

8) I don’t like your attempts at humor on Sunday.  And by the way, I don’t like your haircut either!

7) Do something about the rude ushers.  I’m sure one of them stood over me and wouldn’t move until I put another dollar in the collection plate.

6) How much extra is it costing this church to have the custodian vacuum up all the cheerios left behind by those noisy kids?

5) I have a complaint about the free donuts you serve each Sunday.  I hate Dunkin Donuts. Get them from someplace else!

4) Have you seen the Sunday school rooms? They are a mess! If the children can’t keep them neat and clean, we should just cancel Sunday school!

3) Do you always have to preach from the Gospel lesson every Sunday? There are other people in the Bible to talk about besides Jesus!

2) Can you get the organist to play faster? She sounds like a 45 rpm record being played at 33!

1) I’m tired of all this preaching about evangelism.  You should tailor your preaching to those in the church who pay the bills!

Sanctification is slow

 Justification is instant.  Sanctification is slow.  The moment the Holy Spirit leads a person to faith in Christ Jesus is the moment of salvation.  There is no buffering or prolonged download time when it comes to justification.  It is the immediate and instant salvation that comes through faith in Christ Jesus.

 Sanctification, however, is far from instant.  It is slow and steady progress toward a life of holiness.  Sometimes, though, it is not all that steady; rather, it can be a steady conflict, full of ups and downs, failures and new beginnings.  And it isn't always progress in the modernist sense of getting better and better, onward and upward, as if old people have become more holy than young people.  It is, however, progress in the sense of a journey that is heading somewhere.  Sanctification is the work of God, calling us to our vocations, providentially putting us through experiences that cause our faith and love to grow, and giving the Holy Spirit through Word and Sacrament.  It is not immediate gratification or instant holiness.  It is, however, the beautifully slow and eventful journey of the Christian life.

"Authentic Christianity," Veith and Sutton, page 198

What does love mean?

 

            A group of social scientists asked some children the question, “What does love mean?”  Here are some of the answers: When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore.  So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too…love is what makes you smile when you are tired…love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.  And here is my favorite: When they crucified Jesus, God could have sold magic words to make the nails fall off the cross, but He didn’t.  That’s love.

            Of course, we know this to be true.  God could have stepped in at any point and spared His Son the unbearable pain and torturous death that had been planned.  Even Jesus said to the Temple Guard: “Do you not think that I cannot call on my Father, and He will at once put at my disposal more than 12 legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (Matthew 26:53-54)

            So for God the Father, love means giving up Your only-begotten Son to be Savior of the world.  The apostle Paul put it like this: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this; while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  (Romans 5:8)

            You’ve heard it said, “Talk is cheap.”  Sometimes it is.  People pledge to make changes in their lives but soon fall back into old habits.  Others make promises that are quickly forgotten.  Talk means nothing unless backed up with action.

            God's love IS love in action!  We see love in the Garden of Gethsemane as Jesus prays, “Thy will be done.”  We see love in action at Calvary as Jesus cries out, “It is finished!” We see love at Bethany as Jesus blesses His disciples and then tells them to “Go!” Jesus counts us as His friends, not His enemies, and He gives us the great opportunity of working in partnership with Him in sharing His Word of love and grace with the whole world.

            Sacrificing your life for others…giving up you life so that others might live…giving the very best you have to offer.  That sounds like love, doesn’t it? That’s the meaning of love according to the One who loves you best – your gracious and loving Savior.  Rejoice!

One Man Can Make A Difference

            Can one man really make a difference? The seven million residents of Honduras will answer with a resounding “Yes!”  In fact, they’ll give you the name of the man – American soccer player, Jonathan Bornstein.

            Honduras hoped to qualify to play in the recently concluded World Cup.  But they needed the USA will tie or beat Costa Rica.  The Americans trailed most of the way until Bornstein scored the tying goal.  Because of his efforts, Honduras was in the world’s biggest sporting event.

            Bornstein is loved in Honduras.  One person said, “We love him!”  Another stated, “He will always be remembered.”  The Honduran President offered the soccer player an all expenses paid trip to a Honduran resort.  A reporter for a Honduran television network put it like this: “Bornstein is like our savior.”

            That’s some pretty heady praise.  Because of one goal, Bornstein is hailed as a hero, a savior, by an entire country.  One man can make a difference.

            Followers of Jesus Christ know this truth well.  Jesus is the difference between life and death for all who believe.  The apostle Paul wrote: “There is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all men.”

            A ransom is simply a payment.  A ransom sets a person free who is enslaved or held captive.  God’s Law had us locked up, so to speak.  Since we cannot keep the Law perfectly, the Law condemns us.  It pronounces us guilty before God.

            We needed someone, anyone to rescue us from our dire situation.  That’s what Jesus did.  He is more than someone who is like a savior.  He is our Savior! He gave His life as a ransom for many.  Here’s how the apostle Peter put it: “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver and gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you by your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Jesus, a lamb without blemish or defect.”

            You see, Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection does more than make seven million people happy.  All who embrace Jesus as Lord and Savior are happy to be the people of God.  One day we will lift up more than a World Cup trophy.  We will be given the Crown of Life, won for us by Jesus at the cross.  Yes, one man – Jesus – does make a difference…for you and me.

From August 2010 

The Most Interesting Man in the World

Everything He says...happens.

He walks on water.  By the way, He created the water.

He is fully God and fully man.  That's right, you heard me.

On Christmas, you celebrate His birthday but He gives the gifts.  Actually, He is the gift.  How do you top that?

He loved you enough not to fight for His own life.

His presence often strikes fear in people - must be the nail-scarred hands.

The President of the United States won't give you the time of day.  He'll give you all the time you want.

Thirsty, my friends?  Read John, chapter four to learn how to quench your thirst.

A take-off from the commercial "The Most Interesting Man in the World." From August 2011 

The Importance of Sound Doctrine

 

            “I don’t know how you do the job.  It would be scary to me,” the girl said.  The teacher responded, “Nah.  The word, sacred, is not in my vocabulary.”  Then the girl asked, “What if I swerved?”  The teacher replied in a comforting tone, “I would grab the steering wheel and pull the car back into the right lane.”

            In fact, a Washington Post reporter wrote that the driving instruction, Patrick Norris, had done just that.  Earlier, 16 year old, Meghan Huggins had wandered over the center line and Norris, with a calm, quick flick of his left hand, brought the care back on the right side of the road.

            The newspaper article noted that Norris’ attitude could be summed up like this: “It is the job of the novice driver to make mistakes, be corrected and learn.”  I suppose the same could be said of novice Christians!

            That seems to be the attitude of the apostle Paul as he teaches Titus the finer points of being a pastor.  Paul makes clear that one of Titus’ responsibilities as he served the new congregation is Crete is to teach.  The people there are new to the faith.  They still have much to learn about Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection and how to live the new life in Christ.

            Titus is to teach sound doctrine so that the Christians know, confess and live out the faith which has enabled them to receive Christ as Savior and Lord.  By showing and sharing the love of God in words and actions they “will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.”  (Titus 2:10)

            Some mistakenly think that being taught the truths of God’s Word ends at confirmation or adult instruction class.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Brothers and sisters in Christ, let me encourage you to attend Bible class on Sunday or during the week; join a small group; read the Scriptures every day and pray.  Learn sound doctrine while you “wait for the blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”  (Titus 2:13)

How to walk through the darkness of life

            One summer many years ago while on vacation at Camp Arcadia, Michigan, my family was invited to take a nighttime nature walk.  Such activity is not usually my cup of tea but Sherri, Steph and Eric wanted to go and a group of our friends was game for this little excursion so I went along.  We gathered at our assigned spot where our guide told us what we would see and experience.  Then she concluded her presentation by saying, “And all this we will do in the dark – we will not be using flashlights!”

            No flashlights! Was she crazy? I tried not to panic.  It’s just that I’m the kind of guy who likes to see where he’s going.  Who wants to stumble like a fool over some tree root or fall in a hole? No matter what destination I might be traveling, I want to be sure I’m on the right path.  If I have a phobia, it’s the fear of getting lost.

            Well, we survived the trip.  And I’m sure there were more than a few who would have gladly gone again.  It turned out to be real fun! Some folks are brave enough to walk in the woods in the dark.  But very few of us want to walk through life in the dark.  Who wants to trip over the tangled root of temptation…stumble over sinful thoughts and ways…fall into the pit of despair and depression?

            The psalmist assures us that we don’t have to go the way that so many others travel.

Your Word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.  Psalm 119:105

            We learn from this beautiful Bible verse that God’s Word is like a lamp that lightens everything around us.  It shows us Jesus, the Light of the world, and His sacrificial love for us.  It enlightens us so that we might lead God-pleasing lives.  By using this lamp for guidance, it assures us that we walk with Jesus.  The bright light of God’s Word keeps us firmly on the path of faith and righteousness.  It helps us stay away from the slippery slope of self-indulgence or the confusing maze of worldly values.  Even though summer is just around the corner, don’t take a vacation from the Scriptures.  Let God’s Word light up your path and your life! 

Dealing with Noise Pollution

            The lead paragraph from the article caught my attention.  It read, “It can’t be seen or smelled, yet it’s America’s most pervasive pollutant.”  Have any idea as to what kind of pollution the author was referring to?

 

            Would you believe the answer is noise pollution?

 

            We live in a noisy world, don’t we?  We are surrounded with the cacophony of power tools on building sites, sirens blaring on our streets and lawnmowers and gardening equipment droning on across the backyard fence or in the yard next door.

 

            All this can lead to hearing loss, tension headaches and high-blood pressure.  Even worse, with all the noise around us, we might miss what the Lord is trying to tell us.

 

            God speaks to His people today through His holy Word.  But how can we hear when we are surrounded by so much noise?  The advice of the Psalmist is wise: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

 

            To “be still” before the Lord is to receive the assurance of His forgiveness (1 John 1:9) and the promise of His peace (Ps. 29:11).  To find a quiet place to pray and meditate on God’s Word puts you in a spot where you can fully receive the blessings that God gives to His people.  Strengthened through the work of the Holy Spirit in the Word, you can go back out into our noisy world and deal with whatever may come, for you go in the grace and help of the Lord.

 

            Is your part of the world too noisy for you?  Find a quiet place where you can “be still” before the Lord.  “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 4:7) 

It was a very good week

Let's see, the week began with me and my dear, sweet wife putting up a banister that had come off its brackets.  Household repairs is not my strong suit.  But, in this case, I watched a couple U-Tube videos that offered some good instruction.  Than, with Sherri's help, we got the banister back in place, attached with new brackets.  It's been on a week and it hasn't fallen off! Wow!

Then on Monday afternoon, our dear friends, Randy and Ellen came for a visit.  They were strong supporters of my ministry at the first congregation I served.  They were faithful worshippers and servants.  Plus, they were just a lot of fun to be around.  We did some sightseeing, attended a concert and enjoyed some good meals.  They left us Thursday but promised to come back next year.

This morning I fixed a shutter that had come off during a wind storm.  It probably took me three times as long as it would have anyone else to do the work but as of this moment, the shutter is still in place! Wow!

This afternoon we will celebrate the birthday of a friend and tomorrow, being Father's Day, we'll have a big bar-b-q at my youngest daughters house.  And if I haven't eaten too much, the grandboys and I will walk down to the basketball court will I will regale them with stories of my exploits during my younger days.  At which point they'll take the basketball and head back home.

A blessed Father's Day to all you guys out there!

Does God need our good works?

"God does not need our good works," Luther said, "but our neighbor does." Our relationship with God is based completely on His work for us in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.  Although we may speak of serving God, He always serves us.  Justification by faith completely excludes any kind of dependence on our good works for our salvation.  We come before God clothed not in our own works or merits, but solely in the works and merits of Christ, which are imputed to us.  But having been justified by faith. God sends us into the world, into our vocations, to love and serve our neighbors, the actual human beings whom God brings into our lives as we carry out our daily callings.

From "Authentic Christianity," page 165 

God Will Lift Up Your Heads

This morning my dear, sweet wife decided to do her grocery shopping and gave me the task of walking our dog, Jake.  He blesses our lives in a number of ways but perhaps the most important way is exercise.  Jake must be walked every morning.  In his mind there are no exceptions.  Jake has a little mail-dog in him, you know, "neither rain nor sleet..."

When I walk Jake by myself I usually listen to my iPod.  I've got something like 2000 songs downloaded so when I put it on shuffle there's no telling what might come up.  Today I received a pleasant surprise.

The Jars of Clay song, "God Will Lift Up Your Heads," comes from their album "Redemption Songs."  It features a series of hymns with modern pop arrangements.  The song is so encouraging because it reminds us, as we hear in the season of Advent, that we need to watch because we don't know when our Lord will return to gather up the people of His kingdom. The song has a fast beat and is very inspirational.

"God Will Life Your Heads" is adapted from Paul Gerhardt's magnificent hymn, "Give to the Winds Thy Fears."  Gerhardt is a 17th century Lutheran pastor, theologian, and hymn writer.  Today the church still sings many of his hymns, probably best known for "Now Sacred Head Now Wounded."

I don't know how Jars of Clay managed to find Gerhardt's hymn.  Traditionalist will probably be disappointed or even offended by the adaption of the hymn.  I usually am not a fan of those who take the hymns of the church, create a different arrangement, substitute words or create a chorus that repeats 70 X 7.  But there is something about this song that lifts up my heart as I sing.  You can find the song on YouTube.  Check it out.

I'm still mad about it!

I love watching my youngest grandson play on his club soccer team.  He is a very good player; high energy, scores lots of goals.  Since I loved playing sports in my younger days, I get real enjoyment from watching he and his team play.

Last Sunday, his team played a team from out of town.  Didn't know too much about them.  But it became clear just a few minutes into the game that their coach had told the kids to "play hard and rough and keep on until the official cautiones you to stop."

And that's what they did.  They repeatedly fouled our kids.  When one of them was in a position to take a clear shot at goal, the other team tackles, shoved, push, and body checked our player.  The referee, who was a collage age student with little experience, let it go on.  

We counted six times when our kids were knocked down and fouled.  Three times our grandson's coach had to carry kids off the field.  My grandson suffered a severe bruise when kicked by an opposing player.

In spite of all this, my grandson's team led two to one with just a few minutes left in the game.  But then they gave up a goal and when the final whistle was sounded, my grandson's team left the field with a two-two tie.  Poor kids, they were very upset.

Yesterday I learned that one of our kids, who was severely fouled, suffered a broken ankle.  He's having surgery today.  I know that accidents happen.  But it was no accident that he was brought down with such malice. If the referee had been in control of the game it might not have happened.

It seems to me that sports in general, are becoming rougher and rougher.  I can hardly stand to watch the NBA anymore.  The fouling and excessive physical play had turned me off.  Is this having an effect on the young athletes of today?  And are couches encouraging this kind of play?

I don't have any answers to the above questions.  I've just venting my anger and  disappointment.  I'll get back to more encouraging things next time around.

How do you tell someone in church to shut up!?

Yesterday my dear, sweet wife and I had the opportunity to worship at a church we had visited a year ago.  The worshippers there are very friendly, the worship service is done well and the pastor is a fine preacher.  We looked forward to hearing God's Word and receiving Holy Communion.

It started with the beginning of the Old Testament reading.  Two people directly behind us begin whispering to one another.  I couldn't really catch what they were saying but it must have been important because it continue throughout the readings and didn't stop even when the pastor began with his sermon.

My dear, sweet wife and I looked at one another.  We were puzzled.  What was so important that it had to be discussed at church right in the middle of the service? I kept thinking that it would eventually stop.  But it didn't.

What to do? We were visitors.  Is it appropriate to turn around and ask the offenders to be quiet? Would that have become even more of a distraction to the worshippers around us?  In the end we did nothing.  We toughed it out.

When we returned to our seats after communion we purposely sat farther her down the pew and away from the chatterboxes.  As we prepared to leave we took a good look at them - two older women who should have known better - and and made a mental note to sit as far away as possible from them the next time we visit.

In the end Sherri and I agreed that we did get the message the pastor delivered and we receive the Lord's body and blood in the Sacrament.  And we talked about some subtle ways we might "shush" a person the next time it happens.  Worship is too important to have it spoiled by some folks who don't seem to get it.

Justification - the Chief Article

For Lutherans, though, the doctrine of justification is the "chief article" upon the church stands or falls. Justification is the material principal of theology - that is the substantive content - to which the formal principal, the Word of God, testifies...every other teaching of Lutheranism - the Sacraments, Scripture, worship, vocation, the two kingdoms, prayer, the Christian life - has as its keystone our justification by Christ.

From "Authentic Christianity," Veith Jr. and Sutton, page 98, published by CPH

The Friday Funny on Saturday?

 A fellow went to the doctor who told him that he had a bad illness and only a year to live.

So he decided to talk to his pastor.
After the man explained his situation, he asked his Pastor if there was anything he could do.
"What you should do is go out and buy a late '70 or early '80 model Dodge Pickup," said the Pastor.
"Then go get married to the meanest woman you can find, and buy yourselves an old house trailer in the panhandle of Oklahoma."
The fellow asked, "Will this help me live longer?"
"No," said the pastor, "but it will make what time you do have seem like forever."