Obeying Your Shepherds

This afternoon Beverly and Malaya and I are heading to H-town (that's Houston in my oldest son's lingo). We will spend a couple of days hugging on the grandkids -- and visiting with the kids. They will be at the in-laws for Thanksgiving, and we just couldn't go another month before seeing them. I can't wait!
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Last night in our men's class, we had a great discussion of what it means to be sheep. What kind of followers are we to be? What does it mean to "Obey your leaders" (Hebrews 13: 17)? After class was over, someone asked me, "What exactly are we to obey?" It was a good question, and I have been thinking about it ever since. Those early shepherds were the only way the flock had of receiving the Word of God -- since there was no Bible as we know it. So were they to obey what the shepherds shared as handed down by the apostles? Or were they to obey -- even in areas of opinion?

Certainly, the elders were not to "lord it over the flock" (1 Peter 5: 3). So, what were they to obey?

Baptism

I enjoy reading Edward Fudge's blog. I really like the way he worded his reply to a reader's question on baptism, especially the middle paragraph. Following is the exchange:

A gracEmail subscriber writes: "In Romans 6, Paul seems to tie baptism to our death with Christ, then speaks conditionally about our resurrection with him. Please comment."
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The gospel tells us that Jesus died on the Cross, then arose from the dead to live again (1 Cor. 15:1-4). To live again after death is to live outside the limit of Sin's jurisdiction, for Sin has no power beyond the grave (Rom. 6:6-7). Because Jesus died and lived again -- and because he did so as our representative -- his people also died and arose with him (2 Cor. 5:14-15). Thus freed from Sin's power, believers can and may live holy lives dedicated to God (Rom. 6:4b-6, 8-10). The key is continually to reckon that we died and rose in Jesus our representative, and to present our bodies to God for righteous living on that basis (Rom. 6:11-14; Gal. 2:20; Col. 3:1-3).

Baptism is the believer's personal affirmation of faith in the gospel. It remembers the gospel. It declares the gospel. It portrays the gospel. It formalizes the believer's union by faith with Christ who died and arose for us (Rom. 6:3-4). Baptism does not point to itself. It does not point to our faith. It points away from us to Jesus Christ, the object of our faith. It points to the death and resurrection of Christ -- a finished, perfect, complete and sufficient work -- by which God set sinners right with himself.

Today, we need to recover the central gospel message that the work which set us right with God happened outside of us, for us, in the person of Jesus Christ our representative (2 Cor. 5:18-21; Col. 1:19-20; Heb. 1:3; 10:12-14; 2 Tim. 1:8-10). We need to recover the New Testament practice of promptly baptizing those who come to faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord (Acts 2:41; 8:36; 10:47-48; 16:33; 22:16). And we need to recover the New Testament emphasis on personal holiness and obedience -- consequences which flow from the fact that we died and rose with Christ our representative (Rom. 6:1-10; Col. 3:1-15).

I'll Fly Away?

I read the other day that Kenneth Copeland ministries has 6 airplanes. 6 airplanes! And at least two of them are not even functional for "ministry" purposes. One is an old two-seater byplane and another is an old WW2 fighter. Am I missing something here? What could these possibly have to do with ministering in the name of Jesus?

I know it's not fair to always equate the cost of things to "how many poor people would that feed?" But sometimes, I think it is an appropriate question to ask. Especially when money that has been given by people to "the Lord's work" is spent on things not in any way related to ministry.
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Cowboys in the Super Bowl? Jim Reeves in the Star-Telegram wrote an article today entitled, "February in Arizona, Where the Cowboys Appear Headed." They are looking good, and T. O. is even pulling his weight. But Green Bay is looking pretty good, too. And there is a lot of season left. What if Romo gets hurt? Or Ware?

I think this might be a case of "counting your chickens before they hatch."

Big Boys Don't Cry

I'm a little late this morning with my blog. We got in from Florida last night after spending a wonderful weekend with my brother and his wife and family. I had so much fun reconnecting with some really special kinfolks. They were so hospitable, and we laughed and talked and cried and played. It was nice.

The church in Bradenton was so gracious. They seemed very appreciative of what we shared. I am really proud of my brother and his wife and the work they are doing there. The church seems to adore them.

So thanks to my bro-buddy for inviting us.
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On Good Morning America this morning, they listed the top movies that make men cry. Number one was "Rudy," number 2 was "Field of Dreams" and number 3 was "Rocky IV."

I know I wil disappoint you guys, but my biggest cry movie is "Sabrina."

What's yours?

Do Not Be Like Them

This weekend in Florida, I will be challenging the people with some of the words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. I continue to be struck by the radical nature of Jesus' description of life in His Kingdom. I agree with John Stott who says he thinks the Sermon could be summed up by Matthew 6: 8: "Do not be like them."

I don't mean that in a cultish sense. We are not to be different from the world because we dress weird or do our hair in some strange way. That's OK, but that's not Christlikeness. We're not to be different because of political positions we choose to champion. We're not even to be different because of some point of doctrine that we think makes us stand unique. That is not what Jesus is calling us to.

Jesus is calling us to be different because we choose to live His values. We are to be different because we take on His worldview. It is radical. It is different. It looks weird, and it feels weirder. It's countercultural. And it stands out like a sore thumb.

Or in Jesus' words, it stands out like salt and light.

It's Holiday Season

The holiday season is rapidly approaching. I have noticed all the stores are setting up their Christmas decorations. Thanksgiving is only two weeks away!

I saw a piece in the paper this morning that said many malls are setting aside special nights to bring your pet to see Santa. Really, I'm not kidding. All I know is that is another job now struck off my list -- being a Santa. Can you imagine having to hold just anyone's dog or cat for a picture with Santa? It might be a big ole slobbering bull dog or a cat that decides it doesn't like the way you look -- so it scratches your face. Or a dog that gets excited and wets all over you. No thanks.
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Tomorrow Beverly and I will leave for Florida and be gone until Monday night. I am really excited about getting to spend some time with my "baby brother" and his family. I am so proud of them. Pray that the Lord will use us, and that what we share will bless those who are there.
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Since I won't be blogging for a few days, I want to mention this: Sunday is Veteran's Day. When you go to church, take a moment to go up to those who have served our country and thank them. I stand in awe of the sacrifices made in particular by those who served in World War II. We owe them and their spouses so much.

Super Sunday

Yesterday was a great day at church. Our Bible class was incredible as a young man shared with the group about his struggles with internet porn -- how it nearly cost him his marriage and job, and the boundaries he has now put into place to help him win the battle against Satan. One of the great blessings in my time here in Decatur has been to watch the blossoming of his relationship with his wife. Wow!

And I am not a "meetings" person. But yesterday afternoon we had an elders / deacons meeting. It was great! Our elders are establishing such a wonderful environment for our church. And the spirit of the meeting yesterday was beautiful. My partner in crime (I mean ministry), Jacob, shared some exciting plans for involving every member of our church in employing his / her gifts.

At the end of the day, I told Beverly, "I am one blessed man." This is truly a sweet, sweet season of life.
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This weekend, Beverly and I are going to Florida to do a weekend "Adult Rally" at my youngest brother's church. I am especially looking forward to spending time with him and his family.
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I was excited after the meeting yesterday and before evening service started. One of our deacons told me that the Colts were beating the Patriots 20-10 midway through the 4th quarter. I thought, "Alright! They've got them." Then as I was driving home, I was listening to ESPN radio only to find that the Patriots had won. BOO. Not that I am a Colts' fan, but I do not care for Cheater Bill Belicik. I am especially turned off by his aloofness about the whole thing.
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The Cowboys looked good in disposing of the Eagles last night. How about Jason Whitten loosing his helmet and still trying to score a touchdown? Oo-oo-oo. That earned some real man points.

Boundaries

It's Friday already? It seems like the week just began.

Tomorrow night, Beverly and I are speaking to a group of married couples about boundaries. I don't know about you, but I find it to be an ongoing, daily struggle to set proper boundaries in my life.

For instance, there are moral boundaries that seem to shift on me continuously. When it comes to TV, I have set pretty stringent boundaries. Yet, even watching a sporting event -- you can't predict what the content of the commercials is going to be. The battle for purity is a challenge in our culture -- but I am going to win it!

But as I mentioned yesterday, I think my greatest struggle right now is in the area of spiritual boundaries. I want to be more intentional about prayer, taking time to sit before God in silence and meditate upon His Word and His goodness. It is amazing how Satan can convince me that everything else (mostly good stuff in and of itself) is more important.

Prayer

This Sunday I will be wrapping up a series on the "one another" passages. The final one is "pray for one another."

I am so humbled when I preach on prayer. I feel somewhat hypocritical, since I have a long way to go on the spiritual disciplines. I want a deeper, more intimate prayer life. But apparently not enough to make the sacrifices necessary to have one. I love moments when I sit in silence before God -- but I don't do it much. I have prayer time every day several times. But there is a depth that is, more often than not, missing. I'm tired of the shallow and the routine.

Hmm. Sounds like a good New Year's resolution. At this point, I could even get a two-month running start.
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By the way, I can't stand when people say, "Prayer works." Prayer doesn't work. God works.

Am I being nitpicky? Don't tell me if I am. Just talk behind my back about it:)

Trick or Treat

Tonight is Halloween. I think of all the holidays on our calendar, this one could probably be most easily removed. However, I know how much joy it brought to me as a child -- and continues to bring to kids today.

Sometimes I wonder what the proper response to issues like Halloween should be. I know of churches and preachers who every year remind us of the evil roots from which Halloween began. Yet it seems to me that such a reaction only builds walls between us and our communities.

When I was studying Greek in college, my professors often referred to "root fallacy." This is the mistake of going back to the root meaning of a word in order to determine its usage in a passage. As my professors would say, "MEANING IS DETERMINED BY CONTEXT!"

Isn't that somewhat true of Halloween? To trace it back to its roots may make us look smart. But I don't know anyone (especially the kids dressed up like "High School Musical" characters or Batman) who attach any meaning to calling up spirits or having seances or worshipping Satan.

I know I sound somewhat inconsistent, since I am on such a crusade about us being countercultural people. But I think we need to be wise about picking our battles. And bashing a night when kids dress up and go around to ask for candy is not a hill I want to shed blood on. I think it makes us look like radical extremists -- with no connection made to Christlikeness.

I am not saying that to discourage Trick or Treating is wrong, either. This is very much a Romans 14 kind of issue.

Brett Favre and My Dad

Today would have been my dad's 78th birthday. He was born THE day after the great Stock Market crash -- known as Black Tuesday. It seems ironic, because his life was covered by a dark cloud. I hurt for him as I think of how much emotional pain he must have carried through his life.

He's been gone now for 11-1/2 years. And he went out well -- making me proud.
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What an ending to Monday Night Football last night! Brett Favre, the "old man" (he's ony 38! How did Testiverde get a pass here?), threw an 82-yard touchdown pass on the 1st play of overtime to beat Denver.

How can you not like this guy. Unlike others who have gone through drug addictions and made excuses, etc. -- he got help and has turned his life around. We've watched him go through so much: the death of his father, his wife's cancer, his nephew's (If I remembered right) tragic death. He is definitely a survivor.
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I read a piece in the paper yesterday about the Packers. There is a waiting list for people to get season tickets. You have to wait until someone dies or gives them up. The wait is something like 400 years! Incredible! And Green Bay is not even a large city.

The writer of the piece said at least there is hope. Those who wait 400 years might get to see Favre before he retires. I say when you can throw the ball the way he was last night, why is retirement even being discussed?

The Golden Compass

When Beverly and I were in San Antonio, we went to a movie. One of the previews was for a movie entitled "The Golden Compass." As it was showing, I leaned over to her and said, "It reminds me of "The Lion, The WItch and the Wardrobe."

Well, a friend sent me an email this morning about "The Golden Compass." I went to Snopes, and the following is a quote from its website:

Origins: The Golden Compass, a fantasy film starring Nicole Kidman that is scheduled to be released into theaters on 7 December 2007, has been drawing fire from concerned Christians. The film is based on Northern Lights (released in the U.S. as The Golden Compass), the first offering in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy of children's books, a series that follows the adventures of a streetwise girl who travels through multiple worlds populated by witches, armor-plated bears, and sinister ecclesiastical assassins to defeat the oppressive forces of a senile God.

Books of the trilogy have sold more than 15 million copies around the world, with Northern Lights winning the Carnegie Medal for Children's Literature in 1995 and in 2007 being awarded the 'Carnegie of Carnegies' for the best children's book of the past 70 years. The Amber Spyglass, the final book of the series, won The Whitbread Prize in 2001, making it the first children's book to do so.

The series' author, Philip Pullman, is an avowed atheist who has averred that "I don't profess any religion; I don't think it's possible that there is a God; I have the greatest difficulty in understanding what is meant by the words 'spiritual' or 'spirituality.'" Critics of Pullman's books point to the strong anti-religion and anti-God themes they incorporate, and although literary works are subject to a variety of interpretations, Pullman left little doubt about his intentions when he said in a 2003 interview that "My books are about killing God." (Conservative British columnist Peter Hitchens labeled Pullman "The Most Dangerous Author in Britain" and described him as the writer "the atheists would have been praying for, if atheists prayed.")

Bill Donohue, president of The Catholic League, has condemned The Golden Compass as a "pernicious" effort to indoctrinate children into anti-Christian beliefs and has produced a 23-page pamphlet titled The Golden Compass: Unmasked in which he maintains that Pullman "sells atheism for kids." Donohoe told interviewer John Gibson on 9 October 2007 why he believes Christians should stay away from the film:
Look, the movie is based on the least offensive of the three books. And they have dumbed down the worst elements in the movie because they don't want to make Christians angry and they want to make money. Our concern is this, unsuspecting Christian parents may want to take their kid to the movie, it opens up December 7th and say, this wasn't troubling, then we'll buy the books. So the movie is the bait for the books which are profoundly anti-Catholic and at the same time selling atheism.
Other critics, however, have described Pullman's works as being more generally anti-religion rather than specifically anti-Christian or anti-Catholic:
In "His Dark Materials," Pullman's criticisms of organized religion come across as anti-authoritarian and anti-ascetic rather than anti-doctrinal. (Jesus isn't mentioned in any of the books, although Pullman has hinted that He might figure in a forthcoming sequel, "The Book of Dust.") His fundamental objection is to ideological tyranny and the rejection of this world in favor of an idealized afterlife, regardless of creed. As one of the novel's pagan characters puts it, "Every church is the same: control, destroy, obliterate every good feeling."
Last updated: 23 October 2007
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What should our response be? I would encourage us not to be angry Christians. All that would do is make this atheist author feel smug in his assessment of us. Remember: In American, he has freedom of speech, too. But what we CAN do is to make sure this movie is a financial bust. THAT sends the only message that Hollywood cares about. Do not take your kids to see it. And make sure to tell others the same. That is OUR freedom of speech.

The Numbers Game

I'm visiting with people, and they find out I'm a preacher. I guarantee one of the 1st questions they will ask is, "How big is your church?"

Beverly and I do a marraige retreat for another church. As people find out what we have been doing, they ask, "How many people were there?"

I know it's human nature. Especially in America, we attach success to numbers. Human nature. But how spiritual is it?

A. W. Tozer wrote a piece 40+ years ago. Yet it rings with such truth to us today. Hear what he says.

Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. --1 Corinthians 3:12-13

The emphasis today in Christian circles appears to be on quantity, with a corresponding lack of emphasis on quality. Numbers, size and amount seem to be very nearly all that matters even among evangelicals. The size of the crowd, the number of converts, the size of the budget, the amount of the weekly collections: if these look good the church is prospering and the pastor is thought to be a success. The church that can show an impressive quantitative growth is frankly envied and imitated by other ambitious churches.

This is the age of the Laodiceans. The great goddess Numbers is worshiped with fervent devotion and all things religious are brought before her for examination. Her Old Testament is the financial report and her New Testament is the membership roll. To these she appeals as arbiters of all questions, the test of spiritual growth and the proof of success or failure in every Christian endeavor.

A little acquaintance with the Bible should show this up for the heresy it is. To judge anything spiritual by statistics is to judge by another than scriptural judgment. It is to admit the validity of externalism and to deny the value our Lord places upon the soul as over against the body. It is to mistake the old creation for the new and to confuse things eternal with things temporal. Yet it is being done every day by ministers, church boards and denominational leaders. And hardly anyone notices the deep and dangerous error. The Set of the Sail, 153.

Make Each Moment Count

Beverly had me DVR "Oprah" for her the other day, and we watched it last night. Now don't any of you think I have become a big Oprah fan, because you would be wrong. But this show was about people who know that they are dying, and how they are coping with it. It was really fascinating to listen to people who a few months ago were living the rat-race -- and how clearly (and quickly) their lives have become prioritized.

As I watched, I once again was made aware of the fact that we all need to live that way. Who knows when what we say may be the last words our children or spouse ever hear from us?

Every time I hear Tim McGraw's "Live Like You Were Dying", it is a wake-up call for me. I want to stop taking days -- or even moments -- for granted. I want my time on earth to be spent in ways that will make a difference.

So that is my goal today: Make each moment count.

Finding Intimacy with God

Last night I was reading Dr. Myra Perrine's book, What's Your God Language? I want to share a piece from that this morning.

"Thomas Merton said that only the one who truly seeks God with real desire finds Him, not those who remain at a distance and confine life to a 'few routine exercises or external acts of worship and service.'

She then shares a quote from M. Basil Pennington that so practically applies this principle. He said:

I have run into a situation in marriage counseling a number of times. The couple is unhappy. The wife is dissatisfied and the husband cannot see why. He goes into a long recital of all he is doing for her. He is holding down two or three jobs, building a new house, buying her everything. But to all this, the wife quietly replies: "If only he would stop for a few minutes and give me himself!" I sometimes think that God, as He sees us rushing about in all our doing of good, says to Himself: If only they would stop for a few minutes and give me themselves!
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I'm looking forward to the World Series tomorrow night. I enjoyed watching the last two games of the Boston-Cleveland series. I like Boston's closer -- he is a hoot! But I can't decide who to root for. I want Boston to win because it makes the Yankees look bad. But I always like to see a new face in the crowd too. So I might pull for the Rockies.

I'm Back!

It's been a while since I posted a blog. I have been on vacation. It was an interesting one, to say the least.

Last Tuesday and Wednesday, a friend of mine and I went golfing. We played 18 holes on Tuesday and 36 on Wednesday. Allergies hit me Tuesday -- and then really set in on Wednesday. It has to be ragweed. I have never felt as dragged down by allergies as I have from this.

Anyway, Thursday through Saturday, Beverly and I went to San Antonio. It was almost comical thinking back to it. I was feeling wrung out, and then she got sick, too. So we certainly weren't just balls of energy. It pretty much put a damper on things. I usually really enjoy the Mexican food, but my tastebuds were shot.

Oh well, things could have been a whole lot worse! And we have been so spoiled with good health that we have never experienced anything like this before (sick on vacation).
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The weather is great! I am hopeful that this cold front will get rid of the ragweed. High today in the 50s!

"Doable"

This time next week, Lord willing, Beverly and I will be in San Antonio. I am really looking forward to spending some time with my woman -- alone. We are going to take the scenic drive there (US 281). We're going to eat lots of Mexican food and do lots of walking.

In fact, I will be on vacation Monday through Saturday. So, obviously, this blog site will also be on vacation.
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My friend Ron Carlson wrote an excellent article I want to share with you. I already sent it to some of you in an email. It is fairly lengthy -- but you will find it worth the reading:

“Doable”

It costs a lot more money these days to keep Madison Square Garden up and running. It’s not heating oil, extra handicap parking spaces, or a deteriorating infrastructure that have sent costs spiraling upward. Rather, a steady flow of sexual harassment lawsuits are eating away at the bottom line.
Recently, an 11.6 million dollar judgment was levied against CEO James Dolan and the Garden. Knick’s coach Isaiah Thomas was fingered as the primary culprit, accused of crossing the line in “discussions” with female employee, Anucha Browne Sanders.
The Knicks could sign another washed-up veteran five years this side of prime for that kind of money.
Following the verdict, Browne Sanders encouraged other women in the organization and beyond to come forward and speak out against sexual harassment in the work place. At least one of the New York Rangers’ cheerleaders has responded in the affirmative regarding the negative instructions of her male bosses who demanded her fellow dancers should look more “doable.”
Can you imagine a respectable man in the corporate world making such a crass statement?
My guess is that such language and influences are part of the daily dialogue. Sports franchises represent only a small fraction of businesses that hire attractive, well-structured women to expose their bottom lines. Remember, this is sex-saturated America where sex sells and sexual magnetism easily translates into money and power.
Everybody, regardless of gender, is in some degree guilty. Professional cheerleaders are not ignorant of their job description. They understand they are eye candy, paid to jiggle and wiggle. Don’t be so naïve to believe any of the rhetoric appealing to artistic expression and athletic prowess.
Since respectable men don’t like to be seen at strip clubs, they can get the same sights and sounds for free at a Cowboy or Maverick game. It’s the same fantasy, the same buzz, and the same ancient exploitation.
Anybody really think that a turned-on Herod would have offered half his kingdom to a young dancer ill-equipped to stimulate lust? John the Baptist lost his head because the king was more interested in sex with a “doable” teenager than justice for a prophet.
Women know what works. They can titillate a man with little clothing, properly dispensed, as well as with no clothing. Who buys a thong for comfort? I can’t imagine that a haywire push-up bra is all that comfortable. A size twelve body stuffed into size eight jeans balancing on four-inch heels is simply not assembled for ease of movement.
The enormous pressure our culture exerts on women to look and act sexy is destructive and insane. They ought to sue us all for defamation of character. Instead, the majority plays along.
If Dancing with the Stars is really about dancing, then why are the female contestants required to possess augmented breasts and wear costumes with more slits than garment? Why do the male dancers thrust their hips that way?
The answer is no mystery. The sponsors demand high ratings, and those ratings are achieved by attracting a voyeuristic audience that loves raw sexual energy and hopes it’s contagious. This formula requires dancers who look “doable.”
The comical exploits of the East Texas television station that hired a young and unproven journalistic talent with massive implants to anchor the evening news has drawn some surprising criticism. The station’s basic response has been, “If you’ve got it, flaunt it.”
This popular motto, incidentally, does not come from scripture.
Folks with “it” (we rise up and call them blessed), often get paraded around like the dog-eared boy at a carnival.
A number of years ago, I made the mistake of taking my teenaged sons to a giant car show. It turned out the cars were accessories for the “car-babes,” who my boys found far sleeker and more attractive than the lines of a new Buick.
“It’s time to ‘flee youthful lusts,’ ” I told them as I dragged them back to our old sedan. I was talking more to myself.
Want to know how far we have plummeted in our disrespect for simple modesty and sexual sensibilities? Far enough that porn stars are pop culture’s new media darlings. Jenna Jameson, Queen of Hollywood porn, is regarded as a national treasure in the way our grandparents revered the wit and wisdom of Will Rogers. She is a multi-millionaire, partly because she markets a line of anatomically precise silicone body parts designed to pleasure a man. And proud of it!
Respectable men, I mentioned earlier, hate to be seen at strip clubs. That doesn’t mean strip clubs have not become respectable. I read an article recently explaining that entertaining clients at a “Gentleman’s Club” is now a legitimate business expense. Corporation accountants still prefer clients pay for their own lap dances.
Most tragically, we are raising a generation of young women who believe it’s a good thing to look “doable.” High School girls walking to school often look like hookers lined up on Harry Hines trolling for johns.
We have an entertainment industry full of super models, super sluts, and super stars, many who possess no legitimacy outside their “hot and sexy” appeal as “doable.” I saw an advertisement claiming that Britney Spears’ and Paris Hilton’s secret sex DVD’s are a primary staple of any good video library. These girls not only look “doable”; they are!
I could go on and on, but you already know the score. We are still in the middle of a sexual revolution where the insurgents are inflicting heavy damage. We resemble the culture of Jeremiah’s day where folks “have the brazen look of a prostitute who refuses to blush with shame” (Jer. 3:2-4; 6:15; 8:12).
This is front-line, in-the-trenches spiritual warfare for Christians. Over and over again the New Testament writers admonish us to “flee immorality” and leave our old pagan lusts behind. The Holy Spirit demands we practice our sexuality in ways that are healthy, holistic, and holy. Keep in mind that God wants us to establish and maintain sexual purity because our bodies “are a temple of the Holy Spirit” (I Cor. 6).
Don’t expect culture to stop the sexual harassment any time soon. Expect Las Vegas to come to a community near you soon. Anticipate pornography to become mainstream entertainment. Don’t be surprised when folks close to you cross over to the “doable” side.
We’re under attack. It’s time to take up the full armor of God (Eph. 6:10f) and do battle. The bodies and souls of our children are at stake. Victory in the Holy Spirit is doable.

Dear Abby Has Spoken

The article in the paper made it seem as if the final authority had spoken. Yes, Dear Abby (actually Abigail Van Buren's daughter, who took over for her when she developed Alzheimer's) issued a statement in support of homosexual marriage. (I have trouble being PC on this and using the term "gay." That used to be a good word that meant happy).

We live in interesting times. Anything Oprah or some Hollywood star or "Dear Abby" says, people take as if it is authoritative. What qualifies these opinion leaders to speak about morals, ethics, etc? Dear Abby? She's a lady who came up with a gimmic of getting people to write letters, and she gives advice. She has NO schooling or training in the fields of medicine or psychology.

Oh, I realize that we live in a nation of free speech where anyone can say whatever they like. But one's freedom to speak doesn't obligate us to believe or accept it.

Recently Oprah had a show endorsing open marriage and encouraging promiscuous sex as being healthy for a relationship. I was told that this week's episode of Boston Legal basically cast teaching abstinance among teens as criminal -- perhaps even making a school that teaches such an accessory to murder if someone dies of AIDS. This show proclaimed that the condom is the greatest invention of the last century. Really? Greater than the automobile, electric light, airplane, air conditioning? Greater than heart transplants? How ridiculous is that? Yet, millions of people will say, "Yeah, he's right. Because he's on TV."

I'm so glad that I belong to another kingdom. Because even if this nation slips into the depths of total decay -- my kingdom will live on.

OK, my rant is over. I know I'm supposed to feel better, but I'm still kind of sad.

Not Much on the Plate Today

Some days I feel very challenged just to come up with a blog idea. Today is one of those days.

Finally there is a feeling of Fall in the air again. After several weeks of record heat, it was nice to mow the yard yesterday afternoon with the temperature in the upper 70s. And then this morning, it felt so good! My thermometer said 64.
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I'm not a "Dancing with the Stars" fan, but Beverly has gotten into it this year. So I read Golf Digest last night while she watched a TiVo version of DWTS. I will say this: Wayne Newton must have gone to the same plastic surgeon as Jerry Jones. Their faces look as taut as a drum head. To lift a face that much, it must have pulled their chins up under their noses. It doesn't look very natural, that's for sure.

No Fair Report

Well, we didn't make it to the Fair yesterday. We hit traffic about ten miles before we got there. Thinking it was a wreck, we sat in the traffic for about an hour. David, my son-in-law, called to tell us he had heard that the traffic to the Fair was tied up for miles. A record-breaking day. Some Disney group was there, plus it was Columbus Day.

So my daughter pulled into the West End. Beverly took me to Landry's for lunch (birthday eve). Then we went to the Dallas Aquarium. It was really great. On the way home, we stopped at Uncle Julio's for another birthday meal.

So actually, I enjoyed the day more than if we have gone to the Fair. I think Beverly is going to take Malaya another day before the Fair shuts down.
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What a game last night! It's the 1st Cowboy game I have watched in over a year. Dallas gave Buffalo every break a team could want (21 points not scored by their offense, along with 6 turnovers). Dallas still won, although it took a few lucky breaks down the stretch. Give their kicker a game ball!

OK, here I go -- into territory I NEVER dreamed I would. Let me begin by saying T.O. dropped a couple of crucial passes again last night. The guy has GOT to put Stickem on his hands before the next game. But (and here's where I never thought I would go), the call the ref made on him for "delay of game" was ridiculous. There is a new rule in the NFL that spiking the ball after a catch is considered a delay of the game. If what T.O. did was a spike, it was a really poor attempt. He basically let the ball spin out of his hand. It went maybe 5 yards away. Pretty petty call.

State Fair Day

Beverly and I had a great trip to Houston. I really enjoyed seeing Jonathan coach both the JV and Varsity squads. And hanging out with my grandson Jed was SO cool.

Today I get to hang out with my granddaughter Malaya. Beverly and I are taking her and her mom to the State Fair. It's a "5-pound day." Because even though we take in some of the exhibits, we basically go to the Fair to eat. In fact, 5 pounds may be an underestimate.

From what the weather report is showing, we may get rained out.

On the Road Again

Today Beverly and I are traveling to Houston. She is doing a retreat for the Bammal Road Church of Christ tomorrow and Saturday. I'm just tagging along.

We are leaving today so that we can watch our son, Jonathan, as he coaches the private school's junior varsity football team tonight -- and then the varsity tomorrow. He is the receivers and defensive backs coach. I bet he is really good at it, too.

So I'm going to try to catch up on some reading over the next couple of days -- in between playing with my grandson. Can't wait to see him!

It's Just Extra Protein

Last night Beverly went to supper with some friends from when she worked in Dallas. They met in Grapevine and I'm sure had a wonderful time. So I was left to myself.

I have enjoyed getting chicken fried rice from a local restaurant, so I called and ordered some. I went home and dug in. As I got toward the end, I noticed that something appeared to have fallen out of the styrofoam container. On closer observation, it was A ROACH! A nice, big, juicy one.

Ever since then, my stomach has been unsettled. I just keep seeing that ugly bug. This might help me to be able to lose some weight, because my appetite is low right now. Also, my list of restaurants in Decatur is getting shorter and shorter. I hate that, because I really want to patronize the local businesses. But, really now!

I Think I Smell Mi Tierra

In a couple of weeks, Beverly and I are going to go to San Antonio for a couple of days to belatedly celebrate our anniversary. San Antonio is one of our very favorite places to visit. I actually lived there from the start of my freshman year in high school until I left for college -- and I liked it. But through the years, we have vacationed there a number of times and taken at least one trip a year for a couple of days. We love the river walk and the market square. We eat at least once a day at Mi Tierra. I think our love for it has rubbed off on our kids. Jenny and David honeymooned there. And our other kids have made short trips there as well.

We also love to drive through the hill country. We are going to take a different route there this time. Instead of I-35, we are going to go Hwy. 281. We have heard it is very scenic.

I'm not saying it's my favorite place I've ever been. On a previous blog, we discussed that. New York. Boston. Cabo San Lucas. Australia. Grand Canyon. Yellowstone. Wow, I've been blessed to see some wonderful places. But for a two-day getaway, give me San Antonio.

Do you have any place like that? Someplace you try to get away to occasionally?

Sports Monday

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Presidents' Cup this weekend (thanks to one of the greatest inventions ever -- DVR). It was played in Canada, and was absolutely beautiful. I wish I could have been there. Even being color blind, I could see the brilliant color contrasts as the leaves were changing.

But the golf -- on both teams -- was really incredible.
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We had a fun day out at Runaway Bay on Saturday for our third annual church golf tournament. My team just couldn't get many approach shots near the hole. Congratulations to Mark Duncum and sons. It was a great day for golf.
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OK, I'm a believer now. He still looks goofy to me when he passes the ball. But you can't argue with his results. Tony Romo appears to be the real deal. And the Cowboys are looking pretty good, too. I know, the Rams are a shell of a team. But in the past, those have been the teams that have risen up and beaten the Boys.

Confession: The "new" T. O. is even becoming fairly likeable. Coach Phillips just needs to make sure to keep him happy.
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Baseball playoffs are about to begin. ZZZZZZZZ. I used to LOVE watching baseball. When my boys were little, we would even VCR games to watch together. I can't remember the last baseball game I watched.

I do feel sorry for Mets fans. What a collapse! Why couldn't that have been the Yankees?

Golf Weekend

I enjoyed watching the Presidents' Cup last night (DVR -- what a wonderful invention!). The Americans finally looked formidable again as a team. They lead 5-1/2 to 1/2 after the 1st day.

I wax nostalgic as I watch Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player captain the two teams. Two great competitors in their day. And yet in the midst of their competitiveness, there is such grace and sportsmanship.
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Tomorrow is our church's annual golf tournament. We have had it in the spring in years past. We thought we might get more involvement if we moved it to the fall. WRONG! We have about 25 fewer players than we did last time. Oh well. Maybe we'll move back to spring next year.

It will be a beautiful day. Good food. Good fellowship. And all in a beautiful setting.

It's a Joke, OK?

There are people in Texas who think I am wishy-washy when it comes to football because I root for both Texas and Texas A&M. Fact is: I just want Texas teams to shine on the national level, so I root for both. However, I don't bleed burnt orange or maroon.

Having said that, someone sent me an email that I thought was hilarious. Those of you who DO bleed burnt orange may fail to see the humor. Don't take offense. Just laugh, because some of these one-liners are funny. Here it is:

Longhorn football

It's been almost one (1) week without an arrest of a Longhorn football player! Good Job Mack - way to keep those boys in line!!!

(Note: for those of you that don't know, Austin's Pride has produced, within the last month, four (4) boys- w/ mug shots and prints. Two for armed robbery (w/ firearms), one for auto burglary & DUI and another for DUI. )

1. What do you call a drug ring in Austin?

A huddle.

2. Four UT Longhorns in a car, who's driving?

The police.

3. The UT Longhorns have adopted a new "Honor System".

Yes your Honor, No your Honor.


4. The UT Longhorns knew they had to do something for their defense, so they hired a new defensive coordinator:

F. Lee Bailey.


5. How do the UT Longhorns spend their first week at fall practice?

Studying their Miranda Rights.


6. What do you say to a Longhorn in a suit?

Will the defendant please rise?


7. If you see Longhorn football player on a bike, why don't you swerve to hit him?

It might be your bike!


8. The Longhorns employ scouts. But to look out for cops, not to scout high school kids.


9. I heard a rumor that the Texas Department of Corrections plans to build a new prison in Austin, Texas in order to allow Longhorns to walk to school.


10. What do you call it, when a Longhorn goes on vacation?

Time off for good behavior.


11. Why couldn't the Longhorn get into a huddle on the football field?

It's a parole violation to associate with known felons.


12. Obviously Coach Mack Brown is not paying his players if they have to resort to robbing people.


13. Book 'em, Horns!

I Wish I'd Had a Camera

This time of year is strange because of daylight savings time. I had a 7 AM meeting this morning, so I left the house and it was still dark. I realize that for many of you, you always leave the house for work in the dark. But my point is it's not supposed to be dark at 7 AM.

There was a blessing involved in that. As I made the turn off of College onto Hale and began to head west, the moon was sitting up over the horizon. It was BIG, and it was beautiful!
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Last night I was elected to the position of president of W.A.R.M. I think it may have been more of a matter of no one else really wanting it. But I want so much to do a good job and use my time well. It is a wonderful ministry. My prayer is that God will continue to bless us to be able to meet the needs of people here in Wise County.

Being a part of WARM has caused me to appreciate so much more the trust that George Mueller had as he opened an orphanage in Bristol, England back in the 1800s. He never solicited funds, but always trusted the Lord to provide. And God was faithful to him. Many thousands of orphans were cared for as a result of Mueller's faith in Jehovah-Jireh.

Update on "Give 60!"

Three weeks ago, I challenged our congregation to "Give 60!" Broken down, it simply means to volunteer 60 minutes a week outside our church building. We are challenging the church to kick ourselves out of old rut habits and to view our world through the eyes of Jesus. Be His hands and feet. We offered some suggestions, but really are encouraging each member to use his / her imagination.

The response has been exciting. Kids are mowing lawns for elderly people. Mothers and daughters are reading to an 18-year-old girl who is in a partial coma in a local nursing home. A business leader is beginning a Bible study with anyone in his company who is interested. An elderly member is making lap quilts to take to local nursing homes.

I mentioned the possibility of getting involved in World Bible School on Sunday, and will check into that this week. I expect a number of people to become involved in that good work.

These are just a few things I am aware of. I know there is a lot more going on. But I am so proud that my precious church family is taking the challenge to heart.

Let's give 60!

Who Wants to be a Billionaire?

Forbes magazine released its list of 400 richest Americans yesterday. To even make the list now, you must be a billionaire. It was not many years ago (seriously, I'm not kidding) when Ross Perot topped the list at about 3.5 billion. I'm thinking maybe the mid-90's.

Well, I looked over the list several times and have not yet found anyone in whose will I am going to be listed as an heir. I think I will spend some time this weekend tracing family roots. Who knows?

Topping the list is Bill Gates. He is currently worth $59 billion dollars. This means that if he invested his money at only 5% interest, he would earn $295 million a year. I know what you're thinking. Investing at only 5% would not be wise. After all, it would be hard to live on $24.5 million -- A MONTH! Can't you hear the conversations in that home? "Honey, we need to watch our spending this week. It's a 31-day month, and we had a big utility bill. So we only have $5 million to make it til Thursday."

I can't even relate to it. Hmm. Come to think of it, Joel Olsteen is sounding better all the time:)

O. J. and The Tank

I've been out of town for a day and a half, so these are old news. But I can't let them go:

1. Tank Johnson? Is Jerry Jones trying to remake the Cowboys into the image of the Oakland Raiders. I know Al Davis is one of Jones' heroes. Maybe he ought to consider Davis' record since he became known for signing league trouble-makers.

As a lifelong Cowboy fan, I am just embarrassed. I know what you are thinking -- that there have always been "characters" on the Cowboys. Maybe it's different because they BECAME characters here. Many of them were cut or shipped off to take their trouble elsewhere. Mr. Tank and T. O. are guys who were proven team-wreckers in other places. And Jerry went out shopping for them. I'm wondering if he isn't working behind the scenes right now to see if he can sign Michael Vick.
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2. Then there is an ex-NFL star who, if he wasn't so old, would be at the top of Jones' list. After all, running back is still a pretty big question mark for the team. I'm talking about O. J. He would fit right in with Tank, wouldn't he?

When is America going to say enough is enough with this guy? He thinks that because he could carry a leather ball that he is above the law.

I heard where he lawyer said (while he was still in jail) if he was anyone other than O. J., he would be out on the street. I would counter that if he was anyone other than O. J., he would have been found guilty of a double murder over a decade ago and would still be in the pen.

I'll try to rediscover me compassionate side by tomorrow. These sports premadonnas, as my oldest son says, "Just chip my hide."

Abilene, Abilene -- Prettiest Town I've Ever Seen

Today Beverly and I will travel to Abilene. Last year ACU moved their lectureship from February to September. Wise move! It seems like there was always an ice storm or snow during lectureship week. That will be doubtful in September. So we are going out for today and tomorrow -- and be back tomorrow night in time to teach classes.

We are going to hear Josh (our oldest son) speak tomorrow morning. While we are there, we will take in a few other lectures as well.

I used to go to ACU's lectureship years ago. I stopped because it seemed that our universities' lectureships got stale (other than Pepperdine, which I have never been able to go to, but they always seem to have a great program.) But under the leadership of Mark Love, they have had a really good program the last couple of years. I am going to make this a regular on my calendar again next year.

I love Abilene (and ACU). It's where I got my education. It's where I met my wife. And even though I grew up in church, I feel that it is where I came to know Jesus. It's where Beverly and I began our marriage. And it's where two of our wonderful kids were born. I have so many fond memories, and so many people who are dear to me.

So, I look forward to our 24 hours there.

Sports Monday

Yesterday Tiger Woods won the Tournament Players' Championship and the 1st FedEx Cup. Is anyone surprised? He won by 8 strokes, and looked like it was nothing more than a Sunday afternoon stroll through the park.

Being a golf fan, I told Beverly Saturday that I am glad to be living in the time I am. I was a kid when Jack Nicklaus dominated golf -- often by beating my childhood hero, Arnold Palmer. Up to this point, I would say Nicklaus was the greatest the game has ever seen. But no one has dominated the game like Tiger Woods. I am getting to watch history in the making. Right now, the man has no weakness in his game. Barring injury, he will shatter ALL records.
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The Cowboys played yesterday and won. I didn't watch it, either. I was so caught up in the golf I pretty much forgot. This would shock anyone who knew me 30 years ago. I could tell you about every play in every game.
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I followed with some interest the game between Southlake Carroll and the team from Florida. Carroll was ranked #1 prep school team in the nation, and the Florida school was ranked #2. Carroll lost.

I feel a little bit guilty, because I was pulling for the Florida team. Carroll has won for so long. Like Highland Park, there is something about money being able to buy success that doesn't sit well with me. My guilt springs from finding out that the new coach at Carroll is a member of the Keller Church of Christ.

WalMart

Walmart. It's a store I have a love-hate relationship wtih. I love it for its convenience. I hate it because it's so busy. (That seems somewhat paradoxical, doesn't it?) I love it for the way everything you need is under one roof. I hate it for the way it has run out so many specialized businesses (another paradox).

This morning on Good Morning America, they were talking about the many things WalMart knows about America. Do you know what their #1 selling item is? Bananas. The average woman shopper wears a size 14 and her shoe size is 8-1/2.

I found this one interesting: The state that buys the most tea? Pennsylvania. Five times more than any other state! I thought for sure it would be a southern state.

So, how do you feel about WalMart?

All Other Ground is Sinking Sand

It's funny how a tune can get in your head and just stay there. A few weeks ago, I had the MASH theme song in my head for several days. Oh, no. Just writing this has put it there again.

This morning I have found myself hearing the words to an old hymn. The words that keep going through my head are "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness." The more I think about it, the more I realize -- that sums it up! We get caught up in arguing this point of doctrine or that. But it all boils down to this: If my HOPE is placed in anything other than the atoning blood of Jesus and His righteousness that has been credited to me -- then, as the song says, all other ground is sinking sand.

Any songs you find constantly replaying in your head?

The Lessons of 9-11

The images are still so clearly burned into my mind. People jumping from windows. The buildings collapsing. The plane actually hitting the second of the Twin Towers. People running down the streets as a huge cloud of dust and debris chased them.

Three thousand people! That's half the people in Decatur. Each one a person who was loved and who loved. Their absence has interrupted the flow of a family.

So what are we learning from the events of five years ago today? I know my 1st reaction was RETALIATE. Hit them harder than they hit us. I remember hearing one woman say (and I'm sure it was the feeling of millions of others), 'Let's just nuke all those Arabs." Looking back, I don't think my reaction was the most Christlike I could have had. But we were left feeling so helpless.

This morning, I found myself praying for Osama Bin Laden. He and his cohorts desperately need Jesus. How sad it must be to believe in a god who would delight in terrorism and murder. If that were the only option on the table, I would choose to be an atheist. But it's not. And even though Christians through the ages have done some pretty ungodly things, too -- it's not because we have been reflecting the nature of our Father or our Savior.

My prayer this morning (and many mornings) has also been that Islam will just implode upon itself. That it will just cease to be. Not because we have out-killed them or out-weaponed them. But because it is seen for what it is. And because Jesus is seen for Who He is.

So five years removed from that day, that is what I have learned. I never want to be desensitized to 9-11. May we never forget it. But may we learn to be Christ to the world in the way we Christians respond.

Give 60!

Yesterday's time together with the Body was incredible! Jacob and I issued a challenge for every member to give 60 minutes -- one hour a week -- in service to the Lord outside of church. Jacob offered several suggestions of ways to serve.

I loved hearing the "buzz" after church. I walked by a group of boys, and one of them said, "I already know what I'm going to do. We have some neighbors -- and the man is on oxygen. I'm going to mow his yard." I had to wipe away a tear.

But it wasn't just the young people. I heard adults discussing ideas for ways they could serve. It was really cool.

Remember: It doesn't have to be something that is "organized." Nor does it have to be anything elaborate. Make some cookies for your neighbors and deliver them. Visit a nursing home.

I would love to introduce "World Bible School" to our church. It is a work overseen by the Westover Hills Church of Christ in Austin. Ads are placed in papers all over the world for bible correspondence courses. The students mail the courses back to be graded, etc. It is very easy to do. You grade their paper, send them the next course and perhaps write them a note of encouragement. Anyone of any age could do it. No telling how many souls have been brought to Jesus through this effort.
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I don't know if it's just me, but did that Cowboy game last night excite anybody about their coming season? We had no problem scoring -- but it was the Giants, after all. But what's with the touted Wade Phillip's defense? Maybe he needs more time. I'm not bashing Wade. I like him so much more than Parcells.
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Tiger continues to amaze me. Yesterday his ballstriking was close to flawless as he cruised to his 6th victory of the season. I am hoping he can win next week and take the FedEx Cup. I'm concerned about his retirement. He needs the $10 million deferred prize money.

Ready for the Weekend

It's Friday. I have been looking forward to the weekend. And it's all around eating (isn't that weird?)

Tonight some friends are taking us to Del Frisco's. Dude! That place is good. We've only been there once -- when Beverly was given a gift certificate for speaking at a church. I can't wait!

Then tomorrow, we will go to Sam's for our quarterly "stock up on the necessities" trip. While in Southlake, we will go to Anamea's Mexican Restaurant -- on another gift certificate given to us by some other friends (Life is tough).

So I look forward to the good food. But I am also reminded today what special friends we have.
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I might even try to catch some college football tomorrow. However, the chase for the Fedex Cup has gotten my interest, too.
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Then on Sunday, Jacob and I will issue a challenge to our church. Our theme: "Give 60!" I am excited about the possibilities and look forward to the way the Lord might stimulate us to serve our community.

Gearing Up for Fall

Can you feel it? I asked CAN YOU FEEL IT?

Fall is near. Next week, we are going to have lows perhaps in the upper 50s. Yeah, buddy!

You know by now that Fall is my favorite season. Fall is also when the Ross household gets REALLY busy. This is the beginning of womens' retreat season. So, Beverly will be gone for several weekends over the coming months.

I have mixed feelings about that. Obviously I miss her and just hanging out and doing things with her. But she is SO gifted at what she does. And she brings women closer to the heartbeat of God. For that, I am so proud.

So my advice is: Go get 'em, girl.

Bury This Blog

Yesterday Jacob (my ministry partner) and I went to a funeral over in the old part of Dallas. It is a pretty cemetery that sits among beautiful live oaks.

As we were leaving, I asked him what he thought about cremation. I don't mean to get morbid on you, but I have thought some about it. For one reason (and those of you who know me will understand this): It's cheaper than a burial.

Obviously if the Lord doesn't return for a while, all of us are going to end up being ashes anyway. So why do we have a hangup with cremation? I'm not sure, but for some reason I do. From a theological standpoint, I don't think there is anything wrong with it. My guess is that I am just so culturally conditioned a certain way -- it just doesn't sit well with me.

So, any thoughts?

Home Improvement

I was enjoying the Tiger-Phil showdown yesterday. And then a storm came. My satellite scrambled. So I had to check ESPN later to see how it ended. Oh, well. Congrats to Phil. He seems like a good guy.
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We have had a spot appear on our kitchen ceiling. It gets worse whenever we have company stay upstairs. So, I had a plumber come out, and he cut a hole in the sheetrock in our attic and began his search. He couldn't find it. I told him it seemed to only happen when company had taken a bath. We found some missing grout in a corner, and he got to where he could see inside the wall. I splashed water over into that corner -- and sure enough, that was the culprit. So I regrouted the bad spots yesterday afternoon.

Now comes the hard part: Patching the sheetrock and matching it to the rest of the kitchen ceiling. I have done some sheetrock work in the past, but I don't trust my ability to be able to blend the textures. So, I guess I will have someone come out to do that.

I'm sure there is a great spiritual application waiting. You know, how just a little bitty leak can ruin a ceiling.

What a Wonderful Night!

Beverly's fundraiser last night was awesome! The testimonials given by those who have been her clients brought tears to my eyes as I considered the power of God working through the counselor-counselee relationship. I was SO proud of my wife!

Then to watch the volunteers practice such sweet servanthood. They were there from before we began to the very end. It was a sight to behold.

It is so humbling to witness how God has placed His blessing upon the counseling center. A year ago, we wouldn't have dreamed that this would be where it is. So Beverly and I are in high-praise mode today.

Thank you to any of you readers who have volunteered for or supported this ministry. Tye Lovell put it so well last night when he said that you are not just helping the client. You are affecting generations yet to be born as habits and practices that might have been passed down are reshaped by the Master. As Tye said, it will be so cool to have someone walk up to us in heaven and say, "Thanks for what you did for my granddad. It impacted my dad and me and the generations that came after me."

God is good!

No Time for Sleep

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ. Oh, sorry, I was just wak -i -n-g ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ.

I know and confess: I am a wimp when it comes to sleep. And not getting to bed until between 1:30 and 2 AM registers on my wimp meter.

But it was great to be in Crockett for a few hours last night. Beverly and I got there early and drove around -- being reminded of good memories there. Plus, we ate an early supper at Sam's Cafe in Fairfield. If you ever want good homestyle cooking -- off an all you can eat buffet -- it's the place to go. It's on the east side of I-45 in Fairfield (not to be confused with Sammy's, which is on the west side at the same exit).
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Today is one of the most important days in Beverly's and my life. Tonight is her annual fundraiser for her nonprofit Wise County Christian Counseling. Before, she has always been connected with another agency, but now she is on her own. She has received generous support from a number of people, but there is still a significant shortfall that she needs to cover tonight.

I have no doubt that the Lord will provide what is needed. For one, the people of Wise County have been so extremely generous and encouraging about the Counseling Center. For another, I think that the Lord has shown His endorsement of the ministry through the way so many families have come for help. Beverly's schedule is overflowing.

I love the way my wife is so passionate about the things she does. When she was a school teacher, she was the best -- winning her school districts awards for excellence. And now she is at the top of her field in counseling. She brings the Lord into all that she does (her greatest passion). Needless to say, life with her is an exciting adventure.

Please pray for tonight's fundraiser.

Heading to East Texas

This afternoon, Beverly and I are traveling to Crockett where I will speak tonight. We will return home late this evening.

Crockett was my 1st full-time work. We moved our family from Texas City to begin working with the church in Crockett in June of 1988. At that time, it was a church of about 80-90. And they were kind enough to give me the opportunity to enter into ministry. We quickly grew, and experienced some wonderful times in our five years there. The people were so encouraging and supportive. They endured many lessons from a green preacher -- lessons that I can't believe I ever preached. But they loved me in spite of that.

It's really special when we get to go back. There is a feeling of home in Crockett. Lifelong friends. Good memories of raising our kids there.

So while it will only be for a couple of hours, Beverly and I will make the most of it tonight.

True Confessions

OK, it's confession time. I know I take the risk of your rejection when I share some of the dark things in my life. But it is a risk I am willing to take.

Here goes: I could easily become a video game addict. Yes, there it is. And worse: The ones I could become most addicted to are the war games. So, I have never bought one. I know my limitations. I would probably become pale and thin from never leaving the computer.

Actually, I am kidding (a little). There is one game Beverly gets me every year. It came out this morning, and I already have it in my possession. Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2008. Yes, it's mine -- ALL MINE!

While some people spend their evenings watching TV, I enjoy playing a couple of games of "Tiger." So, tonight I will load it up and see how it works. This new edition allows you to put a picture of yourself in it, and it will generate a player who looks just like you! (Jeff, I know even as I write that I am setting you up for a comment). So, do I go with a bearded picture? or pre-beard? Oh, the heavy decisions that I have to make.

If you haven't heard from me in a couple of days, you might want to notify Beverly -- or the authorities.

A Special Day

For many people, today begins a new school year. It has been a while since Beverly has been in the classroom -- or since I have had to drop off kids for school. Yet, I still think that the beginning of the school year is more like New Year's than January 1st. It is truly a time of new beginnings -- holding new possibilities.

It is also an emotional time for many. Parents taking their children to school for the very 1st time. My daughter was telling us at lunch the other day that she doesn't understand parents saying they can't wait for school to start so they can get the kids out of the house. She said she has enjoyed her daughter (my granddaughter) so much this summer that she was not anxious for today at all. I still can't believe that my granddaughter is in 2nd grade!

I'm praying today for students, teachers and parents. My prayer is that they will have a special year this year. But my prayer is also that those who are Christians will wear the name well. What great opportunities to be the hands and feet and voice of Jesus in this world!
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Today is also my father-in-law's birthday. Today he turns 80! I have learned so much from Mr. Jones. His devotion to God. His love for his family. His almost obsession with being a man of integrity. If he says he will do something, you don't need a contract. He will keep his word -- even if it hurts. And I have also learned a lot about forgiveness by watching the way he interacts with people who have done him wrong.

He would not have a clue how to find a blog, so he will never read this. But I still want to say Happy Birthday!

A Word on Michael Vick

Last night Beverly hosted a party for a group of women with whom she has been studying each week. So I came straggling in about 8 PM -- trying not to disturb them. The food was still out, and so I begin to graze. It was SO good!

She came up with a drink recipe that is delicious. I don't know if you have ever had an "Arnold Palmer," but it is half tea and half lemonade. She adds some other stuff. And it is really good.

What is your favorite summertime thirst quincher?
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I listened to a few minutes of sports talk on ESPN yesterday. They were talking about how vilified Michael Vick has been. Michael Wilbon attributed it to racism. He said if Troy Aikman or Brett Favre had done the same thing, we would not have had such a negative reaction.

I wasn't sure I agreed until he brought up this example: John Daly. He said that here is a man who stands on a green having DTs, comes to a golf tournament with marks on his face, has gambling problems and drinking problems -- and is considered a cult hero. He said a black athlete would never receive such treatment. And I had to agree. However, I -- unlike many I guess -- do not find John Daly to be cool, cute or just a "good-ole boy." I think he is deserving of punishment or banning from the PGA. So I guess I would be equally opposed to both Vick and Daly.

Both these men should be punished for their misdeeds just like any blue collar worker would be if he or she engaged in similar misdeeds. The ability to run with a football or hit a golf ball should not bring with it immunity from decency, morality or obedience to the law.

News, Sports and Weather

Wow! The Rangers scored 30 runs last night! That's the most by a major league team in 110 years. I used to be a huge Houston Astros fan (back in the 80s and early 90s). That would have been a good two weeks worth of runs for them. I remember one year, Nolan Ryan had an ERA of 1.69 at the all-star break -- but his record was like 6-12 because he had no run support.
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When we get to this time of year (the dog days of August), I am reminded that my favorite season is just around the corner. In fact, within the next month we will be getting some cool fronts. In Texas, that means nights down into the 60s and daytime highs in the low 80s. But after the heat of summer, it always feels so good on the skin.
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My youngest grandson will be arriving here tonight at about 10 with his parents. I can't wait to hold the little booger. He's nearly 4 months old! I imagine that he is already asking his parents when he will get to Grampy's house. They are coming in for Beverly's dad's birthday celebration. He turns 80 on Monday.
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Every Thursday morning, I go out to Governor's Ridge (a retirement home) and have a bible study with about 12 of the women and one man. It is such a delight. They are some of the most gracious and grateful people I have ever known. They encourage me so much. I have come to view them as my 2nd church, and I love them dearly.

She

She has a way of smiling with her eyes that melts my heart (no, that is not a mistake the way I wrote it).

She is the most Christlike person I have ever known (and I live with her, and know what she is like when no one is watching).

She knows just the word I need -- whether a word of encouragement or a gentle prod.

She knows how to have fun, and how to make those around her have a great time, too.

She raised three beautiful children, and continues to be the ideal mother and mother-in-law.

She has taken to grandparenting like she was made for it.

There is no one on this planet I would rather be with -- whether it's to go out to eat or travel with or sit around the house.

Her love and enthusiasm for the Lord is absolutely contageous.

Every morning I wake up thanking God that I get to spend my one life with her.

If I had one wish, it would be for more lifetimes together.

We married too young. Statistics said we wouldn't make it. If the marriage had depended on me, we wouldn't have. But she sacrificed her own desires and needs to make it work. She has made me a better man, not by nagging, etc. -- but be showing unconditional love. The Lord obviously knew what I needed.

Today marks out 31st wedding anniversary. And the love I feel today for my woman makes our wedding day in 1976 -- as beautiful as it was -- pale in comparison.

Thank you, God, for giving me this incredible woman to journey with toward eternity.

People are Funny

While I was on vacation, I decided to grow a beard. Beverly has always liked me with a beard. In fact, when we first started dating I had one. A few months later, I had to shave it off for Sing Song, and I thought she might break up with me.

I grew one again a few years ago. One morning, I went to trim it and forgot to put the height selector on the razor. I cut a highway right down the middle of my beard. So, I shaved it off. Beverly told me she thought I would never have one again.

But I do. And I like it. And she likes it (that's really most important).

Here's what I find humorous. A few people have come up to me and said, "I don't like your beard." Or they tell Beverly. It does not bother us, because as I said, I want to make my woman happy. But I just got to thinking: I can't imagine going up to someone and saying, "I don't like your hair." Or, "That dress sure looks bad on you." Or "I don't like the way you wear your make-up."

People are funny. I'm just glad that I have my act totally together:)

Friday Fumblings

I am sorry for the torrential rains that are hitting Texas south of us. But for us to the north, the cooler weather is an emotional lift. Now the Texas coast is bracing for the possibility of a big hurricane.
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This time of year, I sometimes think back to when I was a kid heading back to school. I can still smell it. Paste. Crayons. The cafeteria. As I got older, it also brought the excitement of football.
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Speaking of football, my younger son, Jonathan, is coaching. The church he ministers to has a large private school. They have asked him to coach receivers and defensive backs. They went through two-a-days while we were on vacation.
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It seems that the "in" thing today is to rip on the church. Many are predicting (and I guess it's even happening to some degree) that the traditional model of the church is going to give way to cell churches -- or no institutional church at all. I guess time will tell.

However, I found the following quote worth repeating. It is from Shane Claiborne in the book THE IRRESISTIBLE REVOLUTION. He said, "I once heard a pastor say, 'The church is like Noah's ark. It stinks, but if you get out of it, you'll drown.'"

Jesus and Legion

I loved our visiting preacher's lesson last night. He preached from the story of Jesus and Legion (the man with many demons). A couple of things that stood out to me: When the Creator speaks, His creation MUST act. Even the demons, when told by Jesus to leave the man, had no choice. Their only option was to negotiate where they would go. Yet, God loves us so much that when He speaks, He leaves us with a choice.

Also, I wonder how many Legions I have walked around and avoided in my life. Jesus did not avoid him. He had compassion for him. If I had been living in that vicinity in that day and time, I doubt the crazy, naked guy who lived among the tombs would have been at the top of my "prospects" list. Yet, Jesus empowered that "crazy man" to become a missionary of the gospel. Incredible. I want the Jesus perspective!

Life is Fragile

I meet with a small group of guys every Wednesday morning. As we met today, I was reminded at just how fragile life is. Our health can change at the drop of a hat. Our whole life can be affected by a single action taken at a single moment in time -- often in a moment of emotion when the consequences are not thought through. Llfe is certainly fragile.

But you know what? Even though we live in a fallen world in a culture that seems to have everything upside down from the way God designed it -- life is also good. There are still so many good things that happen around us every day. Good people. Good music. Good food. Good books. Good times of fellowship with family and friends.

So while life is certainly fragile, it is also certainly good. And spending it walking with God is a real treat.

Nothing Comes Easy

Now that summer has set in, my inlaws have discovered that the afternoon heat beats the back of their house for hours -- making it impossible to keep their den cool. So yesterday, Jacob (my ministry buddy) and I took on the job of putting a roof on their patio arbor. I thought it would take a few hours. However, once we got into the job, we hit a couple of snags. I think that is a law of nature: Any time you take on a project, there must be at least two snags.

Anyway, we worked until after 6 last night. By the way, it was the hottest day of the year (are you crying yet?) But now we are on a roll. We think we can finish in an hour or so this morning.

Vacation Ramblings

The Lord truly blessed my family with a wonderful week of rest and rejuvination. Beverly and I really needed it! I began the vacation with a stomach virus (24-hour variety). But I was long over it by the time all the family got together. Then Josh and all of his family passed it around. Thankfully, it was fairly shortlived for all of us.

I played a lot of golf and went tubing (it was a blast!) And I read a Grisham novel, The Partner. I think it was the only book of his I had not read. I usually really like his stuff -- and I enjoyed reading this one too. But the ending left me very unsettled. I would like to rewrite it.

As much as I enjoyed vacation, it is still good to be back home. Time together with the church yesterday reminded me of just how blessed I am to be where I am.
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Well, Tiger Woods won yet another major yesterday. He very easily could have won three this year. He now has 13 in his pursuit of Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 -- a record that once seemed untouchable. Tiger is several years ahead of Nicklaus' pace. He is already approaching Arnold Palmer's total wins count, which would place him 3rd on the all-time list behind Nicklaus and Sam Snead. And he is only 31!
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And Barry Bonds is now the home run king. I know I have discussed this before, but I sure wish he didn't have the steroid thing hanging over his head, because he would have gone down as perhaps the greatest ballplayer in history if he had continued on his pre-steroid pace.
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Summer has finally arrived! Today is projected to be 105. And it is supposed to be over 100 all week. At least it's mid-August, and we only have about a month of this left. But the lakes are full!

I did hear that the weather service is projecting a hurricane to hit the Gulf next week some time. Go fill your gas tank today, because the oil companies will raise their prices just thinking about the possibility of that excuse.

Good Start to August

Well, it is the morning of August 2nd, and we have already had more than the average rainfall for the month. 3-1/2 inches yesterday! That would be a good summer in some years.
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Our home computer crashed yesterday. So, I guess I'll have to order another one today. I don't have a whole lot that I want it to do -- other than handle Beverly's picture program and play my Tiger Woods' Golf Game.

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Tomorrow we will leave for vacation. I don't know if I will blog while I am gone or not.

Us and Them

I loved these thoughts from Edward Fudge:

US AND THEM

Bible readers know the phrase "Jews and Gentiles," but not everyone remembers that "Gentiles" are literally "the nations," meaning all those who are not Jews. The Greeks of the Hellenistic period divided the world into "Greeks and Barbarians," with "Barbarians" being those who did not speak Greek and who therefore sounded (to Greek ears) as if they said "bar-bar-bar."

I have read, but cannot prove, that the names of Native American tribes all mean "the people" in the languages of each respective tribe. Each tribe viewed the world as inhabited by "the people" (themselves) and everyone else. The Chinese speak of their "Middle Kingdom," supposing that they occupy the very center of the earth. The Japanese call their country "the Land of the Rising Sun," as though each new day begins in Japan. North Americans make world maps and globes which show the United States as the focal point of our planet. We all are self-centered, truth be told.

The English word "pagan" comes from the Latin word for a "villager." Christianity thrived in the cities of the Roman Empire, while the rural village-people remained unconverted. The English word "heathen" has the same kind of etymology -- the cities were well churched but country people who lived in the "heath" were not. Our word "outlandish" mirrors the fact that what is foreign (from out-land) to us, we often regard as odd or strange. Farmers laugh at "city slickers" who come among them, while urbanites make jokes about "country bumpkins."

In this world of "us" and "them," of people who are like ourselves and those who are different, the gospel is the great leveller. Christ takes humans of all sorts, kinds, origins, races, economics, cultures and colors, and creates a new humankind. For those in union with Christ, such differences are no longer to matter. To the extent we come short of this goal, we need to repent -- and, with God's help, to seek again to make it a daily reality.

It's Easy to Miss the Point

As I have been grading my students' work on the E-Course I am teaching this summer (Life and Teachings of Jesus), I am struck in particular by two questions on their current assignment. One has to do with the foundation of Jesus' church. Almost all the students put that the church is built upon Peter. So I have had to explain the different terms for "rock" and that "upon this rock I will build my church" actually refers to the bedrock statement of faith made by Peter, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

But another question troubles me as much or more. After the story of Jesus and the adulterous woman (John 8), I asked the students to sum up the meaning of the story. All of them put things like "we are all sinners, so we shouldn't judge," etc. And while that is true, I want them to see a greater story than that. I want them to see the BEAUTIFUL story of God's grace -- as Jesus reaches out to a woman rejected by "society," and invites her to bask in the warmth of the mercy of God. "Neither do I condemn you, but go your way and sin no more."

What a Savior!

Vacation is in View

My mind is already thinking ahead to vacation that begins on Friday. So, this morning's thoughts from Tozer beat anything I have to offer:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Some misguided Christian leaders feel that they must preserve harmony at any cost, so they do everything possible to reduce friction. They should remember that there is no friction in a machine that has been shut down for the night. Turn off the power, and you will have no problem with moving parts. Also remember that there is a human society where there are no problems--the cemetery. The dead have no differences of opinion. They generate no heat, because they have no energy and no motion. But their penalty is sterility and complete lack of achievement.

What then is the conclusion of the matter? That problems are the price of progress, that friction is the concomitant of motion, that a live and expanding church will have a certain quota of difficulties as a result of its life and activity. A Spirit-filled church will invite the anger of the enemy. This World: Playground or Battleground?, 112-113.

Scattershooting

This has to be the strangest summer I ever remember. More rain in the forecast for the next few days. I think it all stems back to me putting in an automatic sprinkler system at the end of last summer:). But here it is the end of July -- and we are looking at highs in the upper 80s and lows in the upper 60s. Last night at about 6:30 or 7, I was outside -- and it actually had a feel of Fall in the air. It has been really nice.
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I wrote about smoking the other day. Maybe you heard that Disney is not going to have any scenes with smoking in them from now on. I don't know what they will do with their old animated movies, because the report I was watching showed clips of smoking from "101 Dalmatians," "Pinnochio," and "Peter Pan" -- as well as others.

I don't know: Are kids really tempted to smoke because they see Cruella DeVille (sp?) puffing on a cigarette in a holder that is 18 inches long? Could this be an overreaction on the part of Disney?
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Here's hoping that the stock market got over its little temper fit yesterday.

From The Home of Catfish O'Harley's

Last night, Beverly and I traveled to Garland where we spoke on marriage to a group at the Saturn Road Church of Christ. We left in time to eat with her sister and her family -- in celebration of her sister's birthday. We ate at a Chinese buffet. Everything was going fine until her sister kept waving her napkin at Beverly's chair (she was trying to be non-chalant about it). There was a roach that was getting its exercise going up and down the back of Beverly's chair.

Needless to say, Beverly didn't get her fill of the buffet. That about did it for her.

At Saturn Road, it was good to see people who have meant a lot to us in our past. One couple had come over from Mesquite to hear us, and that was really special.
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On a related note, I find it interesting when I tell people I am from Decatur, often their response goes something like this: "Decatur? We drive through there quite often as we're heading to ____________. We always stop at Catfish O'Harleys."

So I guess that's our claim to fame. It could be worse I suppose. Waco is known for a tornado and the Branch Davidians. Hunstville is known for its prison. Springtown was made famous in a song by The Steve Miller Band.

I'll take catfish. Although I would be willing to trade with Brenham -- known for Blue Bell Ice Cream.

Non-Smoking, Please.

I read yesterday that the Federal government is considering adding an additional tax on cigarettes -- nearly a dollar a pack. Currently, the cost for a pack of cigarettes is about half taxes (over $2 a pack).

To their credit, I haven't heard many smokers complaining. I think the extra taxes ought to go toward health care, since smokers add a hefty amount to the cost of national health services.

But it got me to thinking how much things have changed in my lifetime. When I was a kid, the majority of adults smoked. I watch the old "I Love Lucy" show, and the four of them all light up as they sit in the living room. Growing up in the home of a smoker, I can only imagine what that room must have been like -- with four people puffing away. But our clothes always smelled like smoke, as well as our bedding and curtains, etc. And I would not have thought a thing about being in a restaurant with a heavy haze of smoke.

Having been away from that for years has changed my perspective. The other day when we were in Houston, we went to an outdoor cafe. About 20 feet away there was a man smoking -- and the smoke drifted my way. And I noticed! Now, it is like someone is invading my space if they smoke around me.

Quite a difference of perspective.

Big-Time Traveler

We had a busy weekend, but it was really nice. Getting to see old friends was very rewarding. The marriage I performed was for a young man whom I had helped coach in T-Ball. His parents and Beverly and I were close friends -- enjoying movies, bowling and Cowboy games together back in the 80s. Good memories.

Yesterday a buddy of mine and I went to Possum Kingdom to play golf at The Cliffs. Wow! It was great. What a beautiful place! On the 4th tee, we had to wait as a deer crossed the tee box in front of us. As we traveled back, we had to slow down while a wild turkey made its way across the highway. I loved it!

Happy Retirement, Troy!

Beverly and I have watched WFAA-channel 8 news since we 1st came to the Metroplex 14 years ago. For all those years (and many before that), Troy Dungan has been the lead weather guy. Not a meteorologist -- and he never tried to make anyone think he was. He left the title for the other people he worked with.

Always in his trademark bowtie. One thing that sticks in my mind vividly was when Christine Kahonek was one of the weather people at WFAA -- she had a miscarriage. Troy volunteered to give her his prime 5-6 PM spot and he took her spot until she could get through that difficult time. A class guy.

Also Troy is a man of faith -- and not of the closet variety either. I find it refreshing when celebrities live confident lives of faith. They don't have to be "in-your-face" about it. But consistently -- day in and day out.

Well, after over 30 years at channel 8, Troy retired last night. I'm going to miss him.

Is This What Is Meant By The Dog Days of Summer?

I am tired. I don't know if the peculiar weather this year hasn't allowed my system to adjust to the sudden summer heat or if it's the higher humidity or if I'm just getting older. It may be all three. But I mowed our yard on Sunday afternoon. Then I played golf Monday afternoon. And yesterday I worked in my in-laws' yard. I got home last night and I was pooped.

Sometimes I wish I had more of my wife's energy. Notice I said "sometimes." Actually, she tires me out just watching her. But it seems like in years past, summers have been more laid back and slower paced. Not this summer! It has been really hectic.

Tomorrow Beverly and I will head back to Houston (I think our car could get there by itself). I am doing a wedding on Saturday evening in Texas City. Then we will leave the reception to get home -- probably around 1 or 2 AM. Then up early Sunday. Whew! I'm getting tired just thinking about it.

And when am I going to watch any of the British Open?

I need a vacation. Thankfully, in two weeks we will be going on one.

Global Warming and the Environment

I know I repeat themes from one blog to another, and I can't remember what I wrote about a couple of months ago. So this may be a repeated idea.

I can remember when I thought environmentalists were all extremists, and that 'global warming" was a fairy tale. I still am not sure that it is as drastic as some would have us believe. I know that air pollution and water pollution are not nearly as bad as they were when I was a teenager. However, I do think that global warming is affecting our weather to some degree.

But the attitude of the other extreme nauseates me. I'm talking about Rush Limbaugh and his ilk who make jokes about cutting down the rain forests and act as if human excess is a virtue. Their creed seems to be, "I will live for me. Who cares about the future?"

Surely the sane position is between the two extremes -- and probably leaning toward the environmentalists. God placed us here on this planet to take care of it. And there are things we can do to protect it -- and make it better. Will it mean doing without some excesses? Probably. Will it cost some money? Yes.

But I want my grandkids and their kids to be able to enjoy the beauty of the earth. And I don't want to risk shaking up the environment because of sheer selfish living on my part. There are so many fairly painless ways that we could make this earth a cleaner place. And I for one am willing to do my part.

Any thoughts?

Nothing is coming to mind this morning (no smart-aleck comments here, please.) So here's something to chew on from Tozer. Don't miss the last couple of lines:

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. --1 Timothy 6:17

We in the churches seem unable to rise above the fiscal philosophy which rules the business world; so we introduce into our church finances the psychology of the great secular institutions so familiar to us all and judge a church by its financial report much as we judge a bank or a department store.

A look into history will quickly convince any interested person that the church has almost always suffered more from prosperity than from poverty. Her times of greatest spiritual power have usually coincided with her periods of indigence and rejection; with wealth came weakness and backsliding. If this cannot be explained, neither apparently can it be escaped. . . .

The point I am trying to make here is that while money has a proper place in the total life of the church, the tendency is to attach to it an importance that is far greater than is biblically sound or morally right. The average church has so established itself organizationally and financially that God is simply not necessary to it. So entrenched is its authority and so stable are the religious habits of its members that God could withdraw Himself completely from it and it could run on for years on its own momentum. The Warfare of the Spirit, 9-11.

The War in Iraq

What a great time it is to be with grandkids. We didn't get to see Truitt for long, but he has really changed. He is SO strong! It was nice to be with Josh and Kayci and to speak at their church. Tomorrow, Jennifer and Jed will be coming to spend nearly a week! I'm sure we will get to see Malaya some during that time as well. Things don't get any better than that.
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The stock market went crazy yesterday. Kind of surprising -- with the price of gasoline going up. That is usually a rally-killer for stocks.
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What would you do about Iraq if you were in George Bush's place right now? He did not make the decision to go into Iraq alone. Congress was supportive of it, too. But you wouldn't know it now -- the way they have all distanced themselves from the decision. Cowardly, if you ask me.

Yes, in hindsight maybe we shouldn't have gone into Iraq. But to abandon that mission now is going to embolden the terrorists. They will consider it a victory.

Regardless of how you feel about the issue, don't you sympathize with those who have to make the decision?

Quick Trip to Houston

In just a little while, Beverly and I will head down to Houston town. I will speak at my son Josh's church tonight and we will spend the night and come back tomorrow. We'll get to see "the T man" (Truitt, my youngest grandchild) for a while. There is also a Marble Slab close to their house. I hope we get to go there! Sweet cream and Heath Bar, Baby!

The Fate of Darwinism

I am currently reading a book by Lee Strobel entitled THE CASE FOR GOD. In it, he describes how he was once an atheist -- due to a large degree by what he had been taught in high school about evolution. He went on to become an investigative reporter for one of Chicago's daily papers.

In this book, Strobel goes to leading scientists and interviews them about Darwinism and evolution. Admittedly, most of them question the theories that many have blindly accepted. But he also quotes a number of staunch evolutionists. His case is compelling -- as he chips away at each of the "proofs" offered by Darwinists.

I am convinced that within a couple of generations, Darwinism will be considered as laughable as the "flat-earth" theory of the Middle Ages.

If you find yourself struggling with belief issues, I would recommend Strobel. I have read THE CASE FOR CHRIST, so this is my 2nd read. He also has a book entitled THE CASE FOR FAITH.

Quietness

...and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire, and after the fire a still small voice. --1 Kings 19:12

"The accent in the Church today," says Leonard Ravenhill, the English evangelist, "is not on devotion, but on commotion." Religious extroversion has been carried to such an extreme in evangelical circles that hardly anyone has the desire, to say nothing of the courage, to question the soundness of it. Externalism has taken over. God now speaks by the wind and the earthquake only; the still small voice can be heard no more. The whole religious machine has become a noisemaker. The adolescent taste which loves the loud horn and the thundering exhaust has gotten into the activities of modern Christians. The old question, "What is the chief end of man?" is now answered, "To dash about the world and add to the din thereof."
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I have been guilty of adding to such a mindset in the church. Busy, busy busy! As Chuck Swindoll once observed, "We more resemble a stampeding herd of cattle than sheep by still waters."

It is taking a long time, but the Lord is teaching me -- in small doses -- the value of quietness. This is definitely a discipline that I want to make a part of my spiritual practice. I've tasted enough to know I want more.

Fighting Terrorism

"Of course, not all Muslims are terrorists. But . . . virtually all suicide terrorists today are Muslims. . . . Muslims have got to understand that a death cult has taken root in the bosom of their religion; feeding off it like a cancerous tumor. . . . If Muslim leaders don't remove this cancer -- and only they can -- it will spread, tainting innocent Muslims and poisoning their relations with each other and with the world." -- Thomas L. Friedman, "Terrorist groups are easy to finish, but hard to find" (Houston Chronicle, 7/5/07).

Friedman has hit on something that I have been saying for some time. If Islam is a religion of peace and not a terroristic religion, then they must police -- and work to put an end to -- the terrorists among them. However, it seems to me that they have been far too silent at best . . . and indirectly supportive at worst.

The World As It Is

The following is from Edward Fudge's email:

"Imagine that the approximately 6.5 billion men, women and children in the world today were shrunk into a village containing 100 people with all present human ratios remaining as they are now. Forty-six people in this prototype human village would enjoy political freedom, 17 would be partially free and 37 would be denied most basic human rights.
Geographically, this village of 100 people would include 57 Asians, 21 Europeans, 14 people from the Americas (North, Central and South) and 8 Africans. Seventy of the 100 villagers would be non-white. Religiously, 66 people would be non-Christian (22 Muslims, 15 Hindus, 14 non-religious, 6 Buddhists, 9 other) and 34 would profess Christianity (18 Roman Catholics, 7 Protestants, 4 Orthodox and 5 other).

In terms of formal education, only one person in this village would have a college education. In the cycle of life, one villager would be near birth and one would be near death. From an economic standpoint, six villagers would possess half the wealth of the total village, all six of them from the United States. Meanwhile, 80 villagers would live in substandard housing, 70 would not be able to read and 50 would suffer from malnutrition."

While information like this makes me very grateful to live in America, it also reminds me that because we are so blessed we have a greater responsibility to bring about change in our world.

Denver Conference

Beverly and I had a great trip to Denver -- arriving home last night at about 12: 30 AM. The conference was more than I had expected. I learned so much about how men and women think.

It's interesting: Remember how back in the 70s and 80s, the pop psychology was that men and women are alike, and any differences are due to culture or environment. Well, now everyone is on board with the fact that our brains operate very differently. In fact, the leading experts in the field were showing how vastly different our brains respond to situations. MRIs have allowed science to watch the way our brains respond to different emotions, situations and stimuli. It was fascinating to this layperson.

It's good to be home. Happy 4th!