"Better a dry crust with peace and quiet
than a house full of feasting with strife" (Proverbs 17:1, NIV).
I plan on starting a class on biblical parenting with the Contact Church of Christ this coming Sunday. When I was asked to teach the class, I asked, "Are you sure you want me to do it...with my four and a half years of experience of being a parent?" I was told, "Absolutely! You have enough experience to know some of the difficulties, but not enough experience to have given up and thrown in the towel." Good point, I guess.
I will be sharing some of the principles from The 12 Essentials of Godly Success by Tommy Nelson. In my first lesson, I will be emphasizing the need for peace in our families.
These are some of Tommy Nelson's words on the subject:
"The most valuable thing I provide for my children is to consistently demonstrate love for my wife. A child can forgive almost any sin so long as his parents love each other. Peace and affection between parents provide a stable foundation for your children. They need their home to be a safe haven from the storms around them. Your first responsibility is to create an environment of peace.
Never heatedly argue with your spouse in front of your children. Watch your tone of voice. Don't be condescending or harsh. Discuss the issues while treating your partner with respect. It's good for kids to see parents work through conflict, but if you feel the need to raise your voice or get overly emotional, then go back into the bedroom to talk it out. Don't rob your children of the peace of their home. They are not ready to handle adult emotions.
Don't play the part of a spoiled brat, freezing out your spouse instead of working through conflict. Children pick up on these patterns. They feel the tension just underneath the surface. They also don't learn healthy patterns of dealing with conflict in their own lives" (pp. 177-178).
Of course, Mr. Nelson's thoughts will need to be adapted to individual circumstances. Some of our families consist of a father and a mother. Others consist of single mothers or single fathers or grandparents raising grandchildren. However, the idea of making our homes as peaceful as possible will benefit the children of the Contact Church. They may live in dangerous neighborhoods and attend schools with violent students, but if we can provide them with safe homes, they will benefit greatly.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Ruth: A Shining Star
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe" (Philippians 2:14-15, NIV).
Throughout the book of Ruth, Ruth faces problems and obstacles. She lost her husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law to death. Her mother-in-law discouraged her from staying with her and from following God. She immigrated to the land of Israel without resources and without much knowledge of the country's customs and laws. She had plenty of reasons to whine and pout, but she never gave in to the temptation.
She refused to leave the true God. She would not return to Chemosh, the false god who demanded child sacrifices in order to be pleased. She would not abandon her widowed mother-in-law, but was determined to do everything she could to care for her. She never resorted to anything immoral in order to survive in her new land. While she could have engaged in stealing or prostitution, instead she found a low-paying but honorable way to support herself and her mother-in-law by picking up leftover grain in the fields.
We do not know how attractive Ruth was physically, but we can see why Boaz was attracted to her in other ways. Her attitude, her faith, her sense of responsibility, her work ethic, and her sense of honor made her stand out as a shining star in a dark universe.
Some scholars believe that Proverbs 31:10-31 was written to honor Ruth. It is certainly an appropriate passage to describe this outstanding woman of the Bible.
Throughout the book of Ruth, Ruth faces problems and obstacles. She lost her husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law to death. Her mother-in-law discouraged her from staying with her and from following God. She immigrated to the land of Israel without resources and without much knowledge of the country's customs and laws. She had plenty of reasons to whine and pout, but she never gave in to the temptation.
She refused to leave the true God. She would not return to Chemosh, the false god who demanded child sacrifices in order to be pleased. She would not abandon her widowed mother-in-law, but was determined to do everything she could to care for her. She never resorted to anything immoral in order to survive in her new land. While she could have engaged in stealing or prostitution, instead she found a low-paying but honorable way to support herself and her mother-in-law by picking up leftover grain in the fields.
We do not know how attractive Ruth was physically, but we can see why Boaz was attracted to her in other ways. Her attitude, her faith, her sense of responsibility, her work ethic, and her sense of honor made her stand out as a shining star in a dark universe.
Some scholars believe that Proverbs 31:10-31 was written to honor Ruth. It is certainly an appropriate passage to describe this outstanding woman of the Bible.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Boaz: In Him is Strength
"He erected the pillars in the front of the temple, one to the south and one to the north. The one to the south he named Jakin and the one to the north Boaz" (2 Chronicles 3:17, NIV).
In the footnote at 2 Chronicles 3:17, the New International Version reads, "'Boaz' probably means 'in him is strength.'"
When King Solomon erected and named the pillars of the newly constructed temple of God, could he have been thinking about his ancestor Boaz, the husband of Ruth? How could he have named a pillar Boaz without thinking of him?
During the days of Boaz, the Israelites occupied the promised land, but God did not occupy their hearts. With a few exceptions, even the judges who led them did not exemplify godly behavior or wisdom. They fell into idolatry time after time. They did what was right in their own eyes, but failed to live right before the Lord.
However, Boaz was an exception. He was a man of faith and character. He lived up to his name. In him was strength.
When Boaz spoke, the Lord was on his mind (Ruth 2:4, 12). He was a generous man who was willing to share (2:14). He protected Ruth's dignity (2:15-16). He protected her virtue and reputation (3:8-14). Boaz dealt with people honestly and wisely (4:1-10). In marrying an immigrant who had become a believer in God, he did not fall victim to ethnic prejudice (4:13).
Boaz was a pillar in his community. When much of his society had grown corrupt, he stood out as a man of strong character, a man of reliable integrity.
In later years, the name of Boaz became associated with a pillar in God's temple.
Today, Christ calls upon his people to imitate Boaz's faith and character, to be strong in our commitment to our God. As Jesus promised, "Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God" (Revelation 3:12, NIV).
In the footnote at 2 Chronicles 3:17, the New International Version reads, "'Boaz' probably means 'in him is strength.'"
When King Solomon erected and named the pillars of the newly constructed temple of God, could he have been thinking about his ancestor Boaz, the husband of Ruth? How could he have named a pillar Boaz without thinking of him?
During the days of Boaz, the Israelites occupied the promised land, but God did not occupy their hearts. With a few exceptions, even the judges who led them did not exemplify godly behavior or wisdom. They fell into idolatry time after time. They did what was right in their own eyes, but failed to live right before the Lord.
However, Boaz was an exception. He was a man of faith and character. He lived up to his name. In him was strength.
When Boaz spoke, the Lord was on his mind (Ruth 2:4, 12). He was a generous man who was willing to share (2:14). He protected Ruth's dignity (2:15-16). He protected her virtue and reputation (3:8-14). Boaz dealt with people honestly and wisely (4:1-10). In marrying an immigrant who had become a believer in God, he did not fall victim to ethnic prejudice (4:13).
Boaz was a pillar in his community. When much of his society had grown corrupt, he stood out as a man of strong character, a man of reliable integrity.
In later years, the name of Boaz became associated with a pillar in God's temple.
Today, Christ calls upon his people to imitate Boaz's faith and character, to be strong in our commitment to our God. As Jesus promised, "Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God" (Revelation 3:12, NIV).
Friday, October 26, 2007
An Interesting Conversation with Christopher
"But everyone will be raised to life in the right order. Christ was first to be raised. When Christ comes again, those who belong to him will be raised to life...But listen, I tell you this secret: We will not all die, but we will all be changed. It will only take a second. We will be changed as quickly as an eye blinks. This will happen when the last trumpet sounds. The trumpet will sound and those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we will all be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:23, 51-52, NCV).
This is the conversation I had with my 4 year old son tonight:
Christopher: "Dad, where is God? Can you show me where he is?"
Me: "We can't see God. He's invisible."
Christopher: "But I want to see him."
Me: "When Jesus returns, he will change us, and then we will be able to see him."
Christopher: "How will he change us?"
Me: "I don't know, but we will be like Jesus. We'll be able to see God."
Christopher: "Will I still be black?"
Me: "I don't know what color we will be."
Christopher: "I hope I'm not dark white."
Me: "I like your color just like it is."
Christopher: "I like your color, too, Dad."
I never know where our conversations are going with a 4 year old, but it's a fun trip.
This is the conversation I had with my 4 year old son tonight:
Christopher: "Dad, where is God? Can you show me where he is?"
Me: "We can't see God. He's invisible."
Christopher: "But I want to see him."
Me: "When Jesus returns, he will change us, and then we will be able to see him."
Christopher: "How will he change us?"
Me: "I don't know, but we will be like Jesus. We'll be able to see God."
Christopher: "Will I still be black?"
Me: "I don't know what color we will be."
Christopher: "I hope I'm not dark white."
Me: "I like your color just like it is."
Christopher: "I like your color, too, Dad."
I never know where our conversations are going with a 4 year old, but it's a fun trip.
Bella
Normally, I avoid any movie that has won an award at any film festival. However, I have listened to actor Eduardo Verastegui and producer Leo Severino being interviewed on the FamilyLife Today radio program over the past 2 days. Their new movie sounds like something that I would like to see. It is a story of redemption with a pro-life theme. The interviews may be read or heard at
http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9515
http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9516
Also, a good review of Bella may be read at http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0003464.cfm
Unfortunately, Bella is not showing in Tulsa yet. If it never appears in theaters here, we will rent it.
http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9515
http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9516
Also, a good review of Bella may be read at http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0003464.cfm
Unfortunately, Bella is not showing in Tulsa yet. If it never appears in theaters here, we will rent it.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
What Attracts Muslims to Christ?
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV).
Christianity Today has published the results of a survey of Muslims who have converted to Christianity. The survey conducted by Fuller Theological Seminary points to several factors that have led Muslims around the world to follow Jesus Christ.
Primarily, two factors attract Muslims to Christianity: the lifestyle of Christians and the biblical message. Muslims are affected by Christians who live with integrity and kindness. They appreciate Christians who will reach out to them by adapting to their social customs. They appreciate kindness. They are impressed with strong Christian marriages.
The biblical message of Christ has a great impact when it is shared. The Gospels are powerful, when they are read or studied. The concept of grace is a welcome idea. Security in relationship with God is very appealing.
In other words, Muslims are attracted to Christ when Christians live like Christians and are loyal to the Bible's message. We can do this, and it can make a great impact. The article may be read at http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/october/42.80.html.
Christianity Today has published the results of a survey of Muslims who have converted to Christianity. The survey conducted by Fuller Theological Seminary points to several factors that have led Muslims around the world to follow Jesus Christ.
Primarily, two factors attract Muslims to Christianity: the lifestyle of Christians and the biblical message. Muslims are affected by Christians who live with integrity and kindness. They appreciate Christians who will reach out to them by adapting to their social customs. They appreciate kindness. They are impressed with strong Christian marriages.
The biblical message of Christ has a great impact when it is shared. The Gospels are powerful, when they are read or studied. The concept of grace is a welcome idea. Security in relationship with God is very appealing.
In other words, Muslims are attracted to Christ when Christians live like Christians and are loyal to the Bible's message. We can do this, and it can make a great impact. The article may be read at http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/october/42.80.html.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Revival
Two hundred years ago, Christian Churches and Churches of Christ in the United States formed as a result of a multi-denominational revival in Cane Ridge, Kentucky. Until the Civil War, we were the fastest growing group of churches in the country. Then, growth occurred slowly and eventually we stagnated.
Over the past twenty years, a revival among the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ has been taking place. In the recent edition of the Christian Standard magazine, Bob Russell reviews what has been happening among us (http://www.christianstandard.com/articledisplay.asp?id=735) and why it has been happening (http://www.christianstandard.com/articledisplay.asp?id=736). Bob Russell is a retired minister and pastor of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Both of his articles are worth reading, but the second is the most useful. In it, he encourages us to be open to new methods while remaining faithful to the original message of the Bible. He encourages us to be bold and unashamed of the gospel while reaching out to people who need Christ.
Over the past twenty years, a revival among the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ has been taking place. In the recent edition of the Christian Standard magazine, Bob Russell reviews what has been happening among us (http://www.christianstandard.com/articledisplay.asp?id=735) and why it has been happening (http://www.christianstandard.com/articledisplay.asp?id=736). Bob Russell is a retired minister and pastor of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Both of his articles are worth reading, but the second is the most useful. In it, he encourages us to be open to new methods while remaining faithful to the original message of the Bible. He encourages us to be bold and unashamed of the gospel while reaching out to people who need Christ.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Christians Adopting Rwandan Orphans Part II
In The Oklahoman newspaper today, Carla Hinton has written a good article about the Henderson family of Oklahoma City. Mark and Sharon Henderson recently returned from Rwanda with their newly adopted sons. Mark is a minister with the Quail Springs Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. The article may be read at http://www.newsok.com/article/3152025/1192832320.
Raising Godly Children
"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up" (Deuteronomy 6:4-7, NIV).
On the FamilyLife Today radio program this week, Dennis Rainey and Bob Lepine interviewed Ken Hemphill, an official in the Southern Baptist Convention and the author of Parenting With Kingdom Purpose. Dr. Hemphill made several good points about raising children in a godly way. He emphasized that we cannot make decisions to follow Christ for our children, but we can point them in the right direction. He pointed out that the least likely children to follow Jesus are children whose parents do not actually live out their faith, although they show up at church every week (sometimes even serving as elders and Sunday school teachers). Parents must live with faith, integrity, and love for God and for people if they want to give their children a better opportunity to know Christ. Dr. Hemphill also emphasized that Bible classes, sermons, and youth ministry cannot take the place of parents in teaching faith and biblical values to our children. While those aspects of church life can be helpful, godly parents who intentionally teach their children the principles of God are far more important.
The interviews may be found at http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9509&past=1 and http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9510&past=1. At those sites, you may either listen online or read a transcript of each program. Both programs are worth reviewing.
On the FamilyLife Today radio program this week, Dennis Rainey and Bob Lepine interviewed Ken Hemphill, an official in the Southern Baptist Convention and the author of Parenting With Kingdom Purpose. Dr. Hemphill made several good points about raising children in a godly way. He emphasized that we cannot make decisions to follow Christ for our children, but we can point them in the right direction. He pointed out that the least likely children to follow Jesus are children whose parents do not actually live out their faith, although they show up at church every week (sometimes even serving as elders and Sunday school teachers). Parents must live with faith, integrity, and love for God and for people if they want to give their children a better opportunity to know Christ. Dr. Hemphill also emphasized that Bible classes, sermons, and youth ministry cannot take the place of parents in teaching faith and biblical values to our children. While those aspects of church life can be helpful, godly parents who intentionally teach their children the principles of God are far more important.
The interviews may be found at http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9509&past=1 and http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=9510&past=1. At those sites, you may either listen online or read a transcript of each program. Both programs are worth reviewing.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Reconciliation
In 2006, a concerted effort was made by many members of Christian Churches and Churches of Christ to re-establish the cooperation that had existed among us in the 19th century. From the North American Christian Convention to the International Soul Winning Workshop, we were encouraged to pursue unity.
I support the reconciliation of Churches of Christ and Christian Churches. Both groups have a high degree of respect for the Bible, accepting it as inspired and accurate. We have a common desire to understand and follow its teachings. We accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We acknowledge our need to learn from him and to follow him. We know that we can be saved only by God's grace through trusting in Christ and what he has done for us in his death and resurrection. Both groups teach that the proper responses to God's grace are faith, repentance, and baptism (immersion) in the name of Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. Both networks of churches are evangelical in that we want the whole world to know what Jesus Christ has done to save us from the punishment that we deserve. The basics are in place for a high level of cooperation among us.
For the sake of Christ, we should reconcile whenever and wherever possible.
The apostle Paul wrote, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit---just as you were called to one hope when you were called---one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all" (Ephesians 4:1-6, NIV).
I support the reconciliation of Churches of Christ and Christian Churches. Both groups have a high degree of respect for the Bible, accepting it as inspired and accurate. We have a common desire to understand and follow its teachings. We accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We acknowledge our need to learn from him and to follow him. We know that we can be saved only by God's grace through trusting in Christ and what he has done for us in his death and resurrection. Both groups teach that the proper responses to God's grace are faith, repentance, and baptism (immersion) in the name of Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. Both networks of churches are evangelical in that we want the whole world to know what Jesus Christ has done to save us from the punishment that we deserve. The basics are in place for a high level of cooperation among us.
For the sake of Christ, we should reconcile whenever and wherever possible.
The apostle Paul wrote, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit---just as you were called to one hope when you were called---one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all" (Ephesians 4:1-6, NIV).
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Pray for the Fish
I enjoy Randy Travis' song "Pray for the Fish," written by Phillip Moore, Dan Murphy, and Ray Scott. These are the lyrics:
Everybody gathered where the river runs wider at the edge of town
To see if that Eddy Lee Vaughn baptism was really gonna go down.
Folks bet hard-earned money that water wouldn't change a thing.
They set the odds at a hundred to one,
his soul would never come clean.
Then the preacher said, "People take a moment or two.
There's something we need to do.
Pray for the fish.
They won't know what's comin'
When the sin starts rollin' off the likes of him.
Lord, be with 'em , they ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish."
Well, the preacher dunked him under that clear cool water. Then he did it again.
Eddy came up yelling, "Oh Lord in heaven, Hallelujah! I'm a brand new man!"
Well the water got to bubblin', the sky got to rumblin', and the thunder backed up the choir.
The fish started jumpin'. It was like they were swimmin' in a lake of fire.
Then Eddy's mamma stepped out of the crowd and started yellin' out loud,
"Pray for the fish.
They won't know what's comin'
When the sin starts rollin' off the likes of him.
Lord, be with 'em. They ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish."
He said, "Everybody cross your fingers and fold your hands.
Pray for ole Eddy, but before we say 'Amen',
Pray for the fish.
Lord, be with 'em. They ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish.
Lord, pray for the fish."
Everybody gathered where the river runs wider at the edge of town
To see if that Eddy Lee Vaughn baptism was really gonna go down.
Folks bet hard-earned money that water wouldn't change a thing.
They set the odds at a hundred to one,
his soul would never come clean.
Then the preacher said, "People take a moment or two.
There's something we need to do.
Pray for the fish.
They won't know what's comin'
When the sin starts rollin' off the likes of him.
Lord, be with 'em , they ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish."
Well, the preacher dunked him under that clear cool water. Then he did it again.
Eddy came up yelling, "Oh Lord in heaven, Hallelujah! I'm a brand new man!"
Well the water got to bubblin', the sky got to rumblin', and the thunder backed up the choir.
The fish started jumpin'. It was like they were swimmin' in a lake of fire.
Then Eddy's mamma stepped out of the crowd and started yellin' out loud,
"Pray for the fish.
They won't know what's comin'
When the sin starts rollin' off the likes of him.
Lord, be with 'em. They ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish."
He said, "Everybody cross your fingers and fold your hands.
Pray for ole Eddy, but before we say 'Amen',
Pray for the fish.
Lord, be with 'em. They ain't done nothin'.
Please won't you leave 'em just a little bit of room to swim?
Pray for the fish.
Lord, pray for the fish."
Thursday, October 11, 2007
How to Pray More Powerfully
"Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him. And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us (1 John 3:21-23, NIV).
"Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers" (1 Peter 3:7, NIV).
These verses indicate that the way we treat other people (specifically fellow Christians and our wives) plays a role in God's willingness to pay attention to our concerns. If we trust in Jesus Christ and interact with others from a position of love, consideration, and respect, God is willing to unleash his power in answer to our prayers.
"Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers" (1 Peter 3:7, NIV).
These verses indicate that the way we treat other people (specifically fellow Christians and our wives) plays a role in God's willingness to pay attention to our concerns. If we trust in Jesus Christ and interact with others from a position of love, consideration, and respect, God is willing to unleash his power in answer to our prayers.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
An Opportunity to Help Disabled Iraqi Orphans
The following article is from the September 2007 edition of National Right to Life News. "Rescued from Near-Euthanasia, Iraqi Orphans Need Loving Homes" was written by Joleigh Little of Wisconsin Right to Life. I am hoping that someone may read this and be able to help. This is a portion of the article, but more information is available at the end of it for anyone who would like to help.
"Euthanasia, regardless of where it rears its ugly head, is a vicious killer that preys on the weak and vulnerable, seeking to destroy anyone and everyone in its path.
Recently, that path wound across the globe to an orphanage in Baghdad where 24 disabled boys ages 6 to 23 were found literally starving and dehydrating to death. The children were lying naked in pools of their own filth, covered with biting flies, 'guilty' only of being orphaned and unable to care for themselves.
Some have cerebral palsy, others were born with Down syndrome, while still others suffer from disabilities not yet diagnosed due to a lack of resources in a country struggling desperately to achieve democracy. No one knows what circumstances brought them to that place.
We only know what we have learned since they were discovered by American soldiers on a routine patrol and rescued by those soldiers in concert with local Iraqi officials who were horrified that such a thing could happen in their backyard...
After viewing the story (on CBS News), (Scott) Southworth immediately contacted military colleagues and both the U.S. and Iraqi governments to seek permission to bring the boys to the U.S. for medical treatment...With the full cooperation of both governments, he has received permission to do just that...
However, loving homes need to be found for each of the boys---and Southworth believes the pro-life community can be of help...In fact, one of the families already lined up to take in two of the Iraqi boys---six year old twins---are local chapter chairs for Wisconsin Right to Life.
'What we need are more people like this,' Southworth said...
'Families who consider this should realize that they are likely in this for the long haul,' he said. 'There will be frustrations, but I want to find families who will view these children as a blessing...never as a burden. I want people who, even during the toughest times, will remember that these children are a gift from God.'
If you, or someone you know, might consider providing a home for one or more of these precious children, please contact us at jlittle@wrtl.org or call (715) 378-4302 for more information. You could change the life of a child forever and enrich your own in ways that can only be imagined."
"Euthanasia, regardless of where it rears its ugly head, is a vicious killer that preys on the weak and vulnerable, seeking to destroy anyone and everyone in its path.
Recently, that path wound across the globe to an orphanage in Baghdad where 24 disabled boys ages 6 to 23 were found literally starving and dehydrating to death. The children were lying naked in pools of their own filth, covered with biting flies, 'guilty' only of being orphaned and unable to care for themselves.
Some have cerebral palsy, others were born with Down syndrome, while still others suffer from disabilities not yet diagnosed due to a lack of resources in a country struggling desperately to achieve democracy. No one knows what circumstances brought them to that place.
We only know what we have learned since they were discovered by American soldiers on a routine patrol and rescued by those soldiers in concert with local Iraqi officials who were horrified that such a thing could happen in their backyard...
After viewing the story (on CBS News), (Scott) Southworth immediately contacted military colleagues and both the U.S. and Iraqi governments to seek permission to bring the boys to the U.S. for medical treatment...With the full cooperation of both governments, he has received permission to do just that...
However, loving homes need to be found for each of the boys---and Southworth believes the pro-life community can be of help...In fact, one of the families already lined up to take in two of the Iraqi boys---six year old twins---are local chapter chairs for Wisconsin Right to Life.
'What we need are more people like this,' Southworth said...
'Families who consider this should realize that they are likely in this for the long haul,' he said. 'There will be frustrations, but I want to find families who will view these children as a blessing...never as a burden. I want people who, even during the toughest times, will remember that these children are a gift from God.'
If you, or someone you know, might consider providing a home for one or more of these precious children, please contact us at jlittle@wrtl.org or call (715) 378-4302 for more information. You could change the life of a child forever and enrich your own in ways that can only be imagined."
Monday, October 08, 2007
The Problems of Pornography
"May your fountain be blessed,
and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
A loving doe, a graceful deer---
may her breasts satisfy you always,
may you ever be captivated by her love.
Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress?
Why embrace the bosom of another man's wife?" (Proverbs 5:18-20, NIV).
While reading Phil Ware's blog (http://blogs.heartlight.org/phil/), I came across a post titled "Major Oops!" It was posted on October 4, 2007. It dealt with the problems of pornography.
Thinking about it, I realized that pornography contributes to many problems among us: discontented marriages, divorce, adultery, pre-marital sex, homosexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, abortion, rape, incest, child abuse, etc.
It opposes God's intentions for sex: a husband and wife who become one, and who can enjoy each other without guilt.
Help may be found for pornography addictions at http://www.xxxchurch.com/.
and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
A loving doe, a graceful deer---
may her breasts satisfy you always,
may you ever be captivated by her love.
Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress?
Why embrace the bosom of another man's wife?" (Proverbs 5:18-20, NIV).
While reading Phil Ware's blog (http://blogs.heartlight.org/phil/), I came across a post titled "Major Oops!" It was posted on October 4, 2007. It dealt with the problems of pornography.
Thinking about it, I realized that pornography contributes to many problems among us: discontented marriages, divorce, adultery, pre-marital sex, homosexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, abortion, rape, incest, child abuse, etc.
It opposes God's intentions for sex: a husband and wife who become one, and who can enjoy each other without guilt.
Help may be found for pornography addictions at http://www.xxxchurch.com/.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Pay It Forward
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things" (Philippians 4:8, NIV).
The Tulsa World published a good article today about some citizens of Owasso (a Tulsa suburb) who have created "Character Coins." When they see someone doing something good for someone else, they give that person a coin and ask him or her to notice someone else doing good so that it can be passed on to another person.
I like the idea for 2 reasons:
1. People are encouraged in doing good.
2. It creates a mindset in which we are looking for the good in life rather than the negative.
The article may be read at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=071007_1_A2_hNewc70268.
The Tulsa World published a good article today about some citizens of Owasso (a Tulsa suburb) who have created "Character Coins." When they see someone doing something good for someone else, they give that person a coin and ask him or her to notice someone else doing good so that it can be passed on to another person.
I like the idea for 2 reasons:
1. People are encouraged in doing good.
2. It creates a mindset in which we are looking for the good in life rather than the negative.
The article may be read at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=071007_1_A2_hNewc70268.
The Anger of Jesus
"Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, 'Stand up in front of everyone.'
Then Jesus asked them, 'Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?' But they remained silent.
He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus" (Mark 3:1-6, NIV).
Most of the time, when I think of the character of Jesus, I think of his compassion or his courage or his faithfulness. I seldom think of his anger, but his anger gives us some insight into his character, which we are called to imitate.
On this occasion, Jesus became angry when the Pharisees were more concerned about their rule-keeping than about a hurting man. He became furious at the virtuous men who had become blind to the needs of the people around them.
I have some understanding of the Pharisees, though. Sometimes I become so task-oriented that I lose sight of the people around me. How often have I become so engrossed in preparing a Bible lesson for Sunday morning that I have become blind to my wife's need to help with the dishes or my son's need for attention? How many times have I not even noticed that a co-worker's life is falling apart a few feet from me because I am obsessed with meeting a deadline? I have no idea, but I have some idea of how it can be easy to miss the needs of people while focusing on a task. The Pharisees were focused on the task of keeping the Sabbath, but they could not see a man in need among them.
Sometimes like the Pharisees, we make up rules in churches. For example, we may have a rule against cell phone usage during worship assemblies. It's a good rule most of the time. It keeps us from distractions. However, when it gets in the way of human needs, I know that it makes Jesus angry as much as the Sabbath rules of the Pharisees made him angry.
I remember one time when a church broke the rules because of our needs, and I am grateful for their willingness to do so. The weekend before our son was born, Janet and I knew that the time was near. We knew that Christopher's birth mother was due to give birth at any time, and that her lawyers could call at any moment for us to go to the hospital. We explained our situation to Tracy Ellis, the minister of the Jenks Church. "No problem," he said. He knew our needs and he refused to let the rules get in the way of meeting them. I kept my eyes on our cell phone the entire morning. I believe that Jesus smiled on the Jenks Church that Sunday morning as a rule was broken, but a need was met. (It turned out that we did not get the call during church services. We were able to be at the hospital 2 days later when our son was born. Another day later, we took him home. The adoption was completed a few months later.)
In order to be more like Jesus, I need to learn from his anger. I need to be more people-oriented and less task-oriented. I need to see the importance of people and be willing to get past rules that interfere with doing what God wants to be done. And I must become angry at what makes Jesus angry. "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son..." (Romans 8:29, NIV).
Then Jesus asked them, 'Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?' But they remained silent.
He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus" (Mark 3:1-6, NIV).
Most of the time, when I think of the character of Jesus, I think of his compassion or his courage or his faithfulness. I seldom think of his anger, but his anger gives us some insight into his character, which we are called to imitate.
On this occasion, Jesus became angry when the Pharisees were more concerned about their rule-keeping than about a hurting man. He became furious at the virtuous men who had become blind to the needs of the people around them.
I have some understanding of the Pharisees, though. Sometimes I become so task-oriented that I lose sight of the people around me. How often have I become so engrossed in preparing a Bible lesson for Sunday morning that I have become blind to my wife's need to help with the dishes or my son's need for attention? How many times have I not even noticed that a co-worker's life is falling apart a few feet from me because I am obsessed with meeting a deadline? I have no idea, but I have some idea of how it can be easy to miss the needs of people while focusing on a task. The Pharisees were focused on the task of keeping the Sabbath, but they could not see a man in need among them.
Sometimes like the Pharisees, we make up rules in churches. For example, we may have a rule against cell phone usage during worship assemblies. It's a good rule most of the time. It keeps us from distractions. However, when it gets in the way of human needs, I know that it makes Jesus angry as much as the Sabbath rules of the Pharisees made him angry.
I remember one time when a church broke the rules because of our needs, and I am grateful for their willingness to do so. The weekend before our son was born, Janet and I knew that the time was near. We knew that Christopher's birth mother was due to give birth at any time, and that her lawyers could call at any moment for us to go to the hospital. We explained our situation to Tracy Ellis, the minister of the Jenks Church. "No problem," he said. He knew our needs and he refused to let the rules get in the way of meeting them. I kept my eyes on our cell phone the entire morning. I believe that Jesus smiled on the Jenks Church that Sunday morning as a rule was broken, but a need was met. (It turned out that we did not get the call during church services. We were able to be at the hospital 2 days later when our son was born. Another day later, we took him home. The adoption was completed a few months later.)
In order to be more like Jesus, I need to learn from his anger. I need to be more people-oriented and less task-oriented. I need to see the importance of people and be willing to get past rules that interfere with doing what God wants to be done. And I must become angry at what makes Jesus angry. "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son..." (Romans 8:29, NIV).
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Living in the Hood
In Ron and Judy Babbit's monthly newsletter, they quote a note given to them by a member of the Contact Church of Christ. It illustrates the difficulties of living in poverty as well as the need for more churches like the Contact Church to reach out to the urban poor. This is a portion of her letter to the Babbits:
"While living at (gives her location) for you and me, it is the hood. It has been very difficult---drugs, killings, violence, all forms of disrespect. My granddaughter (she is 3 years old) walks into our apartment using the 'f' bomb. It is unbelievable and heartbreaking. I watch the men come into our complex; they are here for the women and drugs and if that doesn't happen, then someone gets hurt. I watch how the children are pushed down, cursed at, and hit; never do I see the touch of compassion. The children don't have a chance! Contact has been my stronghold for our LORD'S love to shine. Our LORD has guided me to trust HIM no matter what. And I want to thank Contact Church of CHRIST."
Thank you for praying for our members!
"While living at (gives her location) for you and me, it is the hood. It has been very difficult---drugs, killings, violence, all forms of disrespect. My granddaughter (she is 3 years old) walks into our apartment using the 'f' bomb. It is unbelievable and heartbreaking. I watch the men come into our complex; they are here for the women and drugs and if that doesn't happen, then someone gets hurt. I watch how the children are pushed down, cursed at, and hit; never do I see the touch of compassion. The children don't have a chance! Contact has been my stronghold for our LORD'S love to shine. Our LORD has guided me to trust HIM no matter what. And I want to thank Contact Church of CHRIST."
Thank you for praying for our members!
Friday, October 05, 2007
Addressing Our Bad Reputation
"A good name is more desirable than great riches;to be esteemed is better than silver or gold" (Proverbs 22:1, NIV).
This week, I was talking about my faith in Christ with two of my co-workers. Soon one asked, "What church do you go to?" I let them know that I was a member of a Church of Christ. One co-worker responded, "Isn't that the church that believes it's the only one going to heaven?" The other one said, "Well, my sister-in-law is a member of the Church of Christ, and she certainly believes I'm going to hell."
I was ashamed. I was not ashamed of Jesus Christ or his message, but I was ashamed of the reputation that we have earned. The Churches of Christ are known for being arrogant, self-righteous, and judgmental. In choosing to call ourselves "Churches of Christ," we have sought to honor Jesus Christ. In the way we have treated others, we have come close to blaspheming his name (if we have not actually crossed that line in too many instances).
So what do we do about our bad reputation? A publicity campaign would be unconvincing. Claiming that we have been misunderstood would be a lie; we have been understood all too well.
We must repent. Our mindset must change. We need to humble ourselves, realize our need for God's grace, admit our sins and failures, ask for forgiveness, and commit to extending kindness rather than condemnation to other people. We do not have it all together, and we must admit it to each other and to everyone else. We must trust in Christ who alone has it all together.
It took several decades for the Churches of Christ to develop our bad reputation. It will not change quickly. In fact, it will not change at all unless we are changed at the core of our character. (A significant number of churches have realized this problem and are in the process of repenting already.)
Please forgive me for contributing to our bad reputation and for dishonoring the name of Christ by being arrogant, self-righteous, and judgmental. I want to be a better follower of Jesus than I have been.
This week, I was talking about my faith in Christ with two of my co-workers. Soon one asked, "What church do you go to?" I let them know that I was a member of a Church of Christ. One co-worker responded, "Isn't that the church that believes it's the only one going to heaven?" The other one said, "Well, my sister-in-law is a member of the Church of Christ, and she certainly believes I'm going to hell."
I was ashamed. I was not ashamed of Jesus Christ or his message, but I was ashamed of the reputation that we have earned. The Churches of Christ are known for being arrogant, self-righteous, and judgmental. In choosing to call ourselves "Churches of Christ," we have sought to honor Jesus Christ. In the way we have treated others, we have come close to blaspheming his name (if we have not actually crossed that line in too many instances).
So what do we do about our bad reputation? A publicity campaign would be unconvincing. Claiming that we have been misunderstood would be a lie; we have been understood all too well.
We must repent. Our mindset must change. We need to humble ourselves, realize our need for God's grace, admit our sins and failures, ask for forgiveness, and commit to extending kindness rather than condemnation to other people. We do not have it all together, and we must admit it to each other and to everyone else. We must trust in Christ who alone has it all together.
It took several decades for the Churches of Christ to develop our bad reputation. It will not change quickly. In fact, it will not change at all unless we are changed at the core of our character. (A significant number of churches have realized this problem and are in the process of repenting already.)
Please forgive me for contributing to our bad reputation and for dishonoring the name of Christ by being arrogant, self-righteous, and judgmental. I want to be a better follower of Jesus than I have been.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Blogger Reflection Awards
Allen Hickerson has given me his auspicious Blogger Reflection Award and made some kind comments about my blog and Janet's blog (see http://allens-brain.blogspot.com/2007/10/blogger-reflection-awards.html). By the way Allen, we ran into your parents, sister, and nephews a couple of days ago at the Tulsa State Fair.
Here are the rules for the awards (some of which I will follow):
1. Copy these rules.
2. Reflect on 5 bloggers and write at least a paragraph about each one.
3. Link to this post so others can read it, too.
4. Leave chosen bloggers a comment to let them know they have won a Blogger Reflection Award.
5. Show the Blogger Reflection Awards image in your post. (Sorry, Allen. I still cannot figure out how to post images on my blog. If anyone wants to see the image, please go to the link to Allen's blog above.)
These are a few of the blogs I read:
1. Arron Chambers (http://www.christianstandard.com/MyLordandMyBlog.asp) serves as a preacher with Christ's Church in Jacksonville, Florida. His blog usually centers on some good thoughts about his local congregation as well as some encouraging words about following Jesus.
2. Jackie Chesnutt (http://www.southside-church-of-christ.org/jackie) is an elder and minister with the Southside Church of Christ in Rogers, Arkansas. My mother, step-father, sister, brother-in-law, nephews, and niece worship with the same congregation. It's good to be able to keep up with their preacher (who happens to be a great speaker and great guy). I like the fact that he says he started his blog as an alternative to therapy. I know that feeling.
3. Tony Dungy (http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blog/Dungy_Perspective) coaches the Indianapolis Colts. I have followed his career for a few years now, after hearing him interviewed on the FamilyLife Today radio program. On his blog, he focuses on football, but he often mentions family and faith as well. He has made a Colts fan out of me.
4. Janet Laudett (http://360.yahoo.com/tjclaud) is my wife. She writes more about our family than I do, but I agree with Allen...she does not post often enough. If you want to know more about our everyday lives, Janet gives much more insight about us than you may find on my blog usually.
5. Bobby and Tamie Ross (http://www.therossnews.com/) are editors and writers for the Christian Chronicle, an international newspaper for the Churches of Christ. They are also fellow alumni of Oklahoma Christian University. (Bobby and I were in the Class of 1990.) You will find a good sense of humor on their blog. Sometimes you will find something inspirational (especially when Bobby writes about his parents and their 25 years of service as house parents for a children's home). Sometimes you will find something that challenges you (like when Tamie wrote about signing up to be tested to become a bone marrow donor...she inspired me to do the same when the opportunity arose on my job at the post office several weeks ago). Their blog is very entertaining, but like Janet, they need to post more often.
Please check out all of these blogs. I think you will like them, too.
Here are the rules for the awards (some of which I will follow):
1. Copy these rules.
2. Reflect on 5 bloggers and write at least a paragraph about each one.
3. Link to this post so others can read it, too.
4. Leave chosen bloggers a comment to let them know they have won a Blogger Reflection Award.
5. Show the Blogger Reflection Awards image in your post. (Sorry, Allen. I still cannot figure out how to post images on my blog. If anyone wants to see the image, please go to the link to Allen's blog above.)
These are a few of the blogs I read:
1. Arron Chambers (http://www.christianstandard.com/MyLordandMyBlog.asp) serves as a preacher with Christ's Church in Jacksonville, Florida. His blog usually centers on some good thoughts about his local congregation as well as some encouraging words about following Jesus.
2. Jackie Chesnutt (http://www.southside-church-of-christ.org/jackie) is an elder and minister with the Southside Church of Christ in Rogers, Arkansas. My mother, step-father, sister, brother-in-law, nephews, and niece worship with the same congregation. It's good to be able to keep up with their preacher (who happens to be a great speaker and great guy). I like the fact that he says he started his blog as an alternative to therapy. I know that feeling.
3. Tony Dungy (http://www.mycolts.net/tonydungy/blog/Dungy_Perspective) coaches the Indianapolis Colts. I have followed his career for a few years now, after hearing him interviewed on the FamilyLife Today radio program. On his blog, he focuses on football, but he often mentions family and faith as well. He has made a Colts fan out of me.
4. Janet Laudett (http://360.yahoo.com/tjclaud) is my wife. She writes more about our family than I do, but I agree with Allen...she does not post often enough. If you want to know more about our everyday lives, Janet gives much more insight about us than you may find on my blog usually.
5. Bobby and Tamie Ross (http://www.therossnews.com/) are editors and writers for the Christian Chronicle, an international newspaper for the Churches of Christ. They are also fellow alumni of Oklahoma Christian University. (Bobby and I were in the Class of 1990.) You will find a good sense of humor on their blog. Sometimes you will find something inspirational (especially when Bobby writes about his parents and their 25 years of service as house parents for a children's home). Sometimes you will find something that challenges you (like when Tamie wrote about signing up to be tested to become a bone marrow donor...she inspired me to do the same when the opportunity arose on my job at the post office several weeks ago). Their blog is very entertaining, but like Janet, they need to post more often.
Please check out all of these blogs. I think you will like them, too.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Jesus is Everything
Phil Ware has a powerful article today at Heartlight. It may be read at http://www.heartlight.org/articles/200710/20071001_everything.html.
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