I'm writing this post from the Ramada Inn. Why you ask? Am I on vacation? Attending a conference? NO! A grease fire destroyed our kitchen...the parsonage kitchen!
It was my fault. I was putting on some oil to make tenderloins (an Iowa thing) and I stepped out to check on my son. He says "Daddy, I smell smoke." I turned back to the kitchen and the pan was on fire and by the time I was reaching for it the flames leaped into the range hood.
I grabbed my son, dialed 911 and headed out the door.
The fire departments of four towns responded with one more on standby. With great professionalism they quickly got the fire under control. Our deepest appreciation go out to these brave men!
The kitchen was totaled, the living room, dining room were covered with soot and the rest of the house smells like an Indian smoke lodge. Needless to say my pregnant wife and son can't stay in the house until it gets cleaned up.
(post interrupted due to need to get my son to bed)
Its now day two of the great fire story. I'm now at the Double Tree Hotel. A big step up from the Ramada, but thanks to PriceLine.com much cheaper. In fact we are staying in a $175/night room for only $75! Thanks William Shatner.
Our adventure at the 2 star Ramada included two old women in the room next door arguing about smoking and having the TV turned up way too loud and on all night. Needless to say, very little sleep.
Anywho, the insurance adjuster and the owner of the local Serv-Pro both arrived and got the ball rolling. The parsonage should be livable by Sunday. But it will be backyard grilling for awhile until the kitchen is redone.
You can view the damage if you are so inclined here.
I'm sure I will get some great sermon illustrations out of this. More later...
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
I Joke- It Happens
In a recent post regarding Mark Twain and the SCOTUS ruling on emiment domain, I joked about using it to develop land currently occupied by one of the five justices who rendered this farcical decision. Well look at this from FreeMedia.com:
Weare, New Hampshire (PRWEB) Could a hotel be built on the land owned by Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter? A new ruling by the Supreme Court which was supported by Justice Souter himself itself might allow it. A private developer is seeking to use this very law to build a hotel on Souter's land.
Justice Souter's vote in the "Kelo vs. City of New London" decision allows city governments to take land from one private owner and give it to another if the government will generate greater tax revenue or other economic benefits when the land is developed by the new owner.
On Monday June 27, Logan Darrow Clements, faxed a request to Chip Meany the code enforcement officer of the Towne of Weare, New Hampshire seeking to start the application process to build a hotel on 34 Cilley Hill Road. This is the present location of Mr. Souter's home.
Clements, CEO of Freestar Media, LLC, points out that the City of Weare will certainly gain greater tax revenue and economic benefits with a hotel on 34 Cilley Hill Road than allowing Mr. Souter to own the land.
The proposed development, called "The Lost Liberty Hotel" will feature the "Just Desserts Café" and include a museum, open to the public, featuring a permanent exhibit on the loss of freedom in America. Instead of a Gideon's Bible each guest will receive a free copy of Ayn Rand's novel "Atlas Shrugged."
Clements indicated that the hotel must be built on this particular piece of land because it is a unique site being the home of someone largely responsible for destroying property rights for all Americans.
"This is not a prank" said Clements, "The Towne of Weare has five people on the Board of Selectmen. If three of them vote to use the power of eminent domain to take this land from Mr. Souter we can begin our hotel development."
Clements' plan is to raise investment capital from wealthy pro-liberty investors and draw up architectural plans. These plans would then be used to raise investment capital for the project. Clements hopes that regular customers of the hotel might include supporters of the Institute For Justice and participants in the Free State Project among others.
Weare, New Hampshire (PRWEB) Could a hotel be built on the land owned by Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter? A new ruling by the Supreme Court which was supported by Justice Souter himself itself might allow it. A private developer is seeking to use this very law to build a hotel on Souter's land.
Justice Souter's vote in the "Kelo vs. City of New London" decision allows city governments to take land from one private owner and give it to another if the government will generate greater tax revenue or other economic benefits when the land is developed by the new owner.
On Monday June 27, Logan Darrow Clements, faxed a request to Chip Meany the code enforcement officer of the Towne of Weare, New Hampshire seeking to start the application process to build a hotel on 34 Cilley Hill Road. This is the present location of Mr. Souter's home.
Clements, CEO of Freestar Media, LLC, points out that the City of Weare will certainly gain greater tax revenue and economic benefits with a hotel on 34 Cilley Hill Road than allowing Mr. Souter to own the land.
The proposed development, called "The Lost Liberty Hotel" will feature the "Just Desserts Café" and include a museum, open to the public, featuring a permanent exhibit on the loss of freedom in America. Instead of a Gideon's Bible each guest will receive a free copy of Ayn Rand's novel "Atlas Shrugged."
Clements indicated that the hotel must be built on this particular piece of land because it is a unique site being the home of someone largely responsible for destroying property rights for all Americans.
"This is not a prank" said Clements, "The Towne of Weare has five people on the Board of Selectmen. If three of them vote to use the power of eminent domain to take this land from Mr. Souter we can begin our hotel development."
Clements' plan is to raise investment capital from wealthy pro-liberty investors and draw up architectural plans. These plans would then be used to raise investment capital for the project. Clements hopes that regular customers of the hotel might include supporters of the Institute For Justice and participants in the Free State Project among others.
Monday, June 27, 2005
Check This Blog Out!
If you are even a casual reader of this blog, you quickly realize that I am not a cultured character. I like the Simpsons, country music and the Republican party. However I do have more interesting friends. One of them has just started a new blog entitled, Ars Theologica: An Intersection of theology, poetry, art and music.
One of the first posts is about the poet Karl Shapiro, here is a little excerpt from Ars Theologica...
"Lately I've been digesting a poet with whom I have had only a passing relationship - Karl Shapiro (1913-2000). I wish I had gotten to know his work earlier, for it is filled with unforgettable images of necropolae, automobiles crashing, and under all, the haunting presence of Jehovah.
He ponders the alchemical order and power of the Hebrew letters in "The Alphabet" (1958). Which manages to evoke theophany, order, limits, persistence, heritage, holocaust, palimpsest, and atonement in the space of its first twelve lines.
"The letters of the Jews are strict as flames
Or little terrible flowers lean
Stubbornly upwards through the perfect ages,
Singing through solid stone the sacred names.
The letters of the Jews are black and clean
And lie in chain-line over Christian pages.
The chosen letters bristle like barbed wire
That hedge the flesh of man,
Twisting and tightening the book that warns.
These words, this burning bush, this flickering pyre
Unsacrifices the bled son of man
Yet plaits his crown of thorns."
Can any Christian read that and not wonder and wince simultaneously?"
One of the first posts is about the poet Karl Shapiro, here is a little excerpt from Ars Theologica...
"Lately I've been digesting a poet with whom I have had only a passing relationship - Karl Shapiro (1913-2000). I wish I had gotten to know his work earlier, for it is filled with unforgettable images of necropolae, automobiles crashing, and under all, the haunting presence of Jehovah.
He ponders the alchemical order and power of the Hebrew letters in "The Alphabet" (1958). Which manages to evoke theophany, order, limits, persistence, heritage, holocaust, palimpsest, and atonement in the space of its first twelve lines.
"The letters of the Jews are strict as flames
Or little terrible flowers lean
Stubbornly upwards through the perfect ages,
Singing through solid stone the sacred names.
The letters of the Jews are black and clean
And lie in chain-line over Christian pages.
The chosen letters bristle like barbed wire
That hedge the flesh of man,
Twisting and tightening the book that warns.
These words, this burning bush, this flickering pyre
Unsacrifices the bled son of man
Yet plaits his crown of thorns."
Can any Christian read that and not wonder and wince simultaneously?"
Please Sign The Petition!
Politically correct forces are attempting to rewrite the history of 9-11 and trivialize the heartbreak for thousands who lost loved ones in NYC. Send a clear message to those who would "teach us a lesson" by signing the petition to here. Let's have a memorial that honors the true heroes and victims of this sensless act of terror.
Split Decision on Ten Commandments
The schizophrenic Supreme Court has rendered two diametrically opposed rulings on the display of the Ten Comandments.Both rulings were 5-4 with the first saying that it was unconstitutional for the 10 Commandments to be displayed in Kentucky Courthouses; the second saying it was alright to display them on the grounds of the Texas state capital.
Obviously neither side in the debate is going to be happy with the rulings.
Since the justices were very narrow in their opinions, the greater issue of the place of religious demonstration in public life is going to be around for a while.
Now the attention of the nation will turn to the possiblity of a vacancy on th High Court. Two names are being bandied around: Rehnquist and O'Connor. Since Justice O'Connor (a Reagan appointee) has shown a tendency in latter years to side with the more liberal part of the court, she was the swing vote in the Kentucky case, I would be happiest to see her go first.
Let Charles Spurgeon has the last word on this:
"The Ten Commands surround us on all sides, and encompass all the
movements of body, soul, and spirit, comprising under their jurisdiction the whole range of moral action; they hold us under fire from all points, and nowhere are we out of range."
movements of body, soul, and spirit, comprising under their jurisdiction the whole range of moral action; they hold us under fire from all points, and nowhere are we out of range."
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Joel Osteen Apologizes for Larry King Appearance
Al Mohler reports from his blog:
"Joel Osteen has issued an apology for his disappointing June 20 appearance on CNN's Larry King Live program. The apology is published on the Joel Osteen Ministries Web site.
"It was never my desire or intention to leave any doubt as to what I believe and Whom I serve," he stated. "I believe with all my heart that it is only through Christ that we have hope in eternal life. I regret and sincerely apologize that I was unclear on the very thing in which I have dedicated my life." Further: "I believe that Jesus Christ alone is the only way to salvation. However, it wasn't until I had the opportunity to review the transcript of the interview that I realize I had not clearly stated that having a personal relationship with Jesus is the only way to heaven. It's about the individual's choice to follow Him."
The statement reflected both humility and candor. "God has given me a platform to present the Gospel to a very diverse audience. In my desire not to alienate the people that Jesus came to save, I did not clearly communicate the convictions that I hold so precious," he acknowledged. He also described the interview and its aftermath as "a learning experience" and expresssed his confidence that "God will ultimately use it for my good and His glory."
Mr. Osteen's statement is encouraging on several fronts. First, it is encouraging to know that the constituency of Joel Osteen Ministries was so upset about the interview. Second, Mr. Osteen's statement includes a clear and unambiguous affirmation of the exclusivity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Third, the timeliness of the statement underlines the importance of the issues at stake. Fourth, Mr. Osteen's apology is free from the evasions typical of the pseudo-apologies so often issued to the public. He did not say that "statements were made," but instead acknowledged that he had failed to communicate Gospel truth.
The humility and honesty of the statement serve to fortify its authenticity. This is a reminder to all of us who appear in the media. Statements made to an audience of millions are difficult to retract and are often impossible to correct. When Mr. Osteen writes, "I hope that you accept my deepest apology and see it in your heart to extend to me grace and forgiveness," the only proper response is to extend the very forgiveness for which he asks -- and with equal humility. Other concerns can wait for another day."
"Joel Osteen has issued an apology for his disappointing June 20 appearance on CNN's Larry King Live program. The apology is published on the Joel Osteen Ministries Web site.
"It was never my desire or intention to leave any doubt as to what I believe and Whom I serve," he stated. "I believe with all my heart that it is only through Christ that we have hope in eternal life. I regret and sincerely apologize that I was unclear on the very thing in which I have dedicated my life." Further: "I believe that Jesus Christ alone is the only way to salvation. However, it wasn't until I had the opportunity to review the transcript of the interview that I realize I had not clearly stated that having a personal relationship with Jesus is the only way to heaven. It's about the individual's choice to follow Him."
The statement reflected both humility and candor. "God has given me a platform to present the Gospel to a very diverse audience. In my desire not to alienate the people that Jesus came to save, I did not clearly communicate the convictions that I hold so precious," he acknowledged. He also described the interview and its aftermath as "a learning experience" and expresssed his confidence that "God will ultimately use it for my good and His glory."
Mr. Osteen's statement is encouraging on several fronts. First, it is encouraging to know that the constituency of Joel Osteen Ministries was so upset about the interview. Second, Mr. Osteen's statement includes a clear and unambiguous affirmation of the exclusivity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Third, the timeliness of the statement underlines the importance of the issues at stake. Fourth, Mr. Osteen's apology is free from the evasions typical of the pseudo-apologies so often issued to the public. He did not say that "statements were made," but instead acknowledged that he had failed to communicate Gospel truth.
The humility and honesty of the statement serve to fortify its authenticity. This is a reminder to all of us who appear in the media. Statements made to an audience of millions are difficult to retract and are often impossible to correct. When Mr. Osteen writes, "I hope that you accept my deepest apology and see it in your heart to extend to me grace and forgiveness," the only proper response is to extend the very forgiveness for which he asks -- and with equal humility. Other concerns can wait for another day."
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Theological Art
Ron DiCianni has long been a favorite artist of mine. I have several of his works and find them a great source of inspiration. This piece is a wonderful visual of what is involved in the shaping of a Christlike character. This is how Ron describes it:"In “The Refiner’s Fire” I used the metaphor of the furnace and anvil to convey the message. I used the expression on the man’s face to convey the pain involved. Sometimes I have wished there was another way to be molded into the shape God wants us, but I have since abandoned that desire. God knows what we need to get there and doing things His way achieves the results that are needed.Knowing that our heavenly Father is gentle and kind makes the furnace bearable, because with the fire and the anvil comes the grace He supplies to get through it and come out as gold. Too many times I tried to run through the process only to find that it wasn’t finished and I only delayed it for another time.If this is your time, may the God of peace see you through till the light reveals His reflection in you."
Sunday Spurgeon
"Aspire to be something more than the mass of church members. Lift up your cry to God and beseech Him to fire you with a nobler ambition than that which possesses the common Christian - that you may be found faithful unto God at the last, and may win many crowns for your Lord and Master, Christ."
- CH Spurgeon
- CH Spurgeon
Friday, June 24, 2005
#92 AFI's Top 100 Movie Quotes
Mark Twain's Answer to Supreme's Ruling on Eminemt Domain
HT to Captain's Quarters for digging into the rich literary history of our nation and finding this quote from Mark Twain regarding his intended response to a ruling by a judge that a bookseller could sell bootleg copies of one of Twain's novels without permission.
"It does look as if Massachusetts were in a fair way to embarrass me with kindnesses this year. In the first place, a Massachusetts judge has just decided in open court that a Boston publisher may sell, not only his own property in a free and unfettered way, but also may as freely sell property which does not belong to him but to me; property which he has not bought and which I have not sold. Under this ruling I am now advertising that judge's homestead for sale, and, if I make a good a sum out of it as I expect, I shall go on and sell out the rest of his property."
Sound like a fine idea.
Justice Stevens? Wal-mart on Line one....
"It does look as if Massachusetts were in a fair way to embarrass me with kindnesses this year. In the first place, a Massachusetts judge has just decided in open court that a Boston publisher may sell, not only his own property in a free and unfettered way, but also may as freely sell property which does not belong to him but to me; property which he has not bought and which I have not sold. Under this ruling I am now advertising that judge's homestead for sale, and, if I make a good a sum out of it as I expect, I shall go on and sell out the rest of his property."
Sound like a fine idea.
Justice Stevens? Wal-mart on Line one....
What Does Joel Osteen Really Believe?
There is a great post over at "Between Two Worlds" today that points out some of what I have been saying about the ministry of superstar pastor - Joel Osteen. In Joel Osteen, the Megachurch, and the Mini-Gospel, Justin Taylor collects some thoughts from around the blogosphere on Osteen's recent appearance on Larry King Live. It is bothersome at best and at worst exposes Osteen as someone who doesn't have a clear view of the Gsopel he purports to preach. Take the time to check it out...
How Will Supreme Court Ruling on Eminent Domain Effect Churches?
Just a thought:
Will today's Supreme Court ruling that allows local governements to seize private lands for "public usage" allow those same cities to seize church properties? Most churches sit on very attractive parcels of land that greeedy local governments and developers would love to get their hands on. This flagrant over-stepping of the Fifth Amendment has potential for great harm to the rights of any religious organizations and their land holdings. Let's keep an eye out for the first church to fall prey to this land grab.
Will today's Supreme Court ruling that allows local governements to seize private lands for "public usage" allow those same cities to seize church properties? Most churches sit on very attractive parcels of land that greeedy local governments and developers would love to get their hands on. This flagrant over-stepping of the Fifth Amendment has potential for great harm to the rights of any religious organizations and their land holdings. Let's keep an eye out for the first church to fall prey to this land grab.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
C.S. Lewis on the Priority of Prayer
"The moment you wake up each morning, all your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists in shoving it all back; in listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other, larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in."
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Happy Birthday To My Favorite Avenger
I always thought that Tara King (portrayed by the delightful Linda Thorson) was the sexiest of all the Avenger gals. Emma certainly had her a-peel, but for me, my heart will always belong to Tara.
A Happy 58th Birthday to Linda Thorson.
Friday, June 17, 2005
RCA Minster Suspended Over Gay Marriage
Leaders of the Reformed Church in America suspended a New Jersey minister Friday night, ruling that he violated the Bible and the denomination's teachings when he officiated at his gay daughter's wedding.
The Rev. Norman Kansfield, 65, had been dismissed in January from his presidency of one of the church's two seminaries, New Brunswick Theological Seminary. Kansfield performed his daughter's wedding ceremony last June in Massachusetts, shortly after it became the first state to allow same-sex marriage.
About two-thirds of the 240 delegates at the church's annual gathering also found Kansfield guilty of breaking his ordination vows and failing to seek the church's counsel before performing the wedding, said the minister's attorney, William Rupp of Hackensack, N.J.
A majority of delegates voted to suspend Kansfield from ministry until he changes his views to fall in line with church doctrine. They also stripped him of his standing as a professor of theology in the RCA.
More on the story can be found here.
While an early critic of Kansfield's actions, I take no particular joy in this decision. It was necessary, but nonetheless painful for all involved. May God be glorified even in this!
The Rev. Norman Kansfield, 65, had been dismissed in January from his presidency of one of the church's two seminaries, New Brunswick Theological Seminary. Kansfield performed his daughter's wedding ceremony last June in Massachusetts, shortly after it became the first state to allow same-sex marriage.
About two-thirds of the 240 delegates at the church's annual gathering also found Kansfield guilty of breaking his ordination vows and failing to seek the church's counsel before performing the wedding, said the minister's attorney, William Rupp of Hackensack, N.J.
A majority of delegates voted to suspend Kansfield from ministry until he changes his views to fall in line with church doctrine. They also stripped him of his standing as a professor of theology in the RCA.
More on the story can be found here.
While an early critic of Kansfield's actions, I take no particular joy in this decision. It was necessary, but nonetheless painful for all involved. May God be glorified even in this!
A Sad Day in History
June 17, 1963:
The Supreme Court struck down rules requiring the recitation of the Lord's Prayer or the reading of Biblical verses in public schools.
The Supreme Court struck down rules requiring the recitation of the Lord's Prayer or the reading of Biblical verses in public schools.
Actual Church Bulletin Bloopers
The 'Over 60s Choir' will be disbanded for the summer with the thanks of the entire church
The pastor will light his candle from the altar candles. The ushers will light their candle from the pastor's candle. The ushers will turn and light each worshipper in the first pew.
The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.
The Rev. Merriweather spoke briefly, much to the delight of the audience.
The Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children
The sermon this morning: Jesus Walks on the Water. The sermon tonight: Searching for Jesus
The third verse of Blessed Assurance will be sung without musical accomplishment.
The topic for our sermon next week will be "What is Hell?". Come early and listen to our choir practice
There will be a special collection today to pay for eight new choir robes. These are needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones
This Friday at 5 PM there will be a meeting of the Little Mothers Club. All wishing to become Little Mothers, please see the minister in his private study
This week we invite any member of the congregation who enjoys sinning to join the choir
Today... Christian Youth Fellowship Sexuality Course, 8 p.m. Please park in the rear parking lot for this activity.
Today's Sermon: HOW MUCH CAN A MAN DRINK? with hymns from a full choir.
Next Sunday Mrs. Vinson will be soloist for the morning service. The pastor will then speak on "It's a Terrible Experience."
Next Thursday, there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
Next Sunday, a special collection will be taken to defray the cost of the new carpet. All those wishing to do something on the new carpet will come forward and get a piece of paper
On a church bulletin during the minister's illness: GOD IS GOOD - Dr. Hargreaves is better.
Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 pm in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King.
Pastor is on vacation. Massages can be given to church secretary.
Please remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community
The 2003 Church Retreat will be hell May 10 and 11
The agenda was adopted...the minutes were approved... the financial secretary gave a grief report.
The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday: "I upped My Pledge----Up Yours."
"The cost for attending the Fasting & Prayer conference includes meals".
The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind and they may be seen in the church basement Friday
The outreach committee has enlisted 25 visitors to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.
At the Ladies Liturgy Society this Thursday, Mrs Smith will sing "Put Me In My Little Bed" accompanied by the pastor
Barbara C. remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Jack's sermons.
Due to the Rector's illness, Wednesday's healing services will be discontinued until further notice.
Father, we just want to pray for our unloved saved ones.
If any of the congregation have children and don't know it, there is a nursery downstairs
If you are going to be hospitalized for an operation, contact the pastor. Special prayer also for those who are seriously sick by request.
Lift up our Messianic brothers and sisters in Israel who are suffering during our prayer time.
Men's Prayer Breakfast. No charge, but your damnation will be gratefully accepted.
Miss Charlene Mason sang, "I Will Not Pass This Way Again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
Missionary from Africa speaking at Calvary Memorial Church in Racine. Name: Bertha Belch. Announcement: Come tonight and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa".
The pastor will light his candle from the altar candles. The ushers will light their candle from the pastor's candle. The ushers will turn and light each worshipper in the first pew.
The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict.
The Rev. Merriweather spoke briefly, much to the delight of the audience.
The Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children
The sermon this morning: Jesus Walks on the Water. The sermon tonight: Searching for Jesus
The third verse of Blessed Assurance will be sung without musical accomplishment.
The topic for our sermon next week will be "What is Hell?". Come early and listen to our choir practice
There will be a special collection today to pay for eight new choir robes. These are needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones
This Friday at 5 PM there will be a meeting of the Little Mothers Club. All wishing to become Little Mothers, please see the minister in his private study
This week we invite any member of the congregation who enjoys sinning to join the choir
Today... Christian Youth Fellowship Sexuality Course, 8 p.m. Please park in the rear parking lot for this activity.
Today's Sermon: HOW MUCH CAN A MAN DRINK? with hymns from a full choir.
Next Sunday Mrs. Vinson will be soloist for the morning service. The pastor will then speak on "It's a Terrible Experience."
Next Thursday, there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.
Next Sunday, a special collection will be taken to defray the cost of the new carpet. All those wishing to do something on the new carpet will come forward and get a piece of paper
On a church bulletin during the minister's illness: GOD IS GOOD - Dr. Hargreaves is better.
Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 pm in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King.
Pastor is on vacation. Massages can be given to church secretary.
Please remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community
The 2003 Church Retreat will be hell May 10 and 11
The agenda was adopted...the minutes were approved... the financial secretary gave a grief report.
The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday: "I upped My Pledge----Up Yours."
"The cost for attending the Fasting & Prayer conference includes meals".
The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind and they may be seen in the church basement Friday
The outreach committee has enlisted 25 visitors to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.
At the Ladies Liturgy Society this Thursday, Mrs Smith will sing "Put Me In My Little Bed" accompanied by the pastor
Barbara C. remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Jack's sermons.
Due to the Rector's illness, Wednesday's healing services will be discontinued until further notice.
Father, we just want to pray for our unloved saved ones.
If any of the congregation have children and don't know it, there is a nursery downstairs
If you are going to be hospitalized for an operation, contact the pastor. Special prayer also for those who are seriously sick by request.
Lift up our Messianic brothers and sisters in Israel who are suffering during our prayer time.
Men's Prayer Breakfast. No charge, but your damnation will be gratefully accepted.
Miss Charlene Mason sang, "I Will Not Pass This Way Again," giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
Missionary from Africa speaking at Calvary Memorial Church in Racine. Name: Bertha Belch. Announcement: Come tonight and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa".
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
This Week's Christian Carnival is UP!
DaddyPundit is hosting this week's round-up of great articles from across the Christian blogosphere. Tolle et Legge friends! Take and read some of the most interesting stuff out there. You may not always agree, but you might think, smile or just go huh?
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
NJ COURT UPHOLDS TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE
Trenton, N.J. - The New Jersey Appellate Division upheld the traditional definition of marriage, rejecting arguments that the marriage laws violated state guarantees of privacy and equal protection. The decision is firmly grounded in the concept that our government consists of three co-equal branches, with the judiciary required to give appropriate deference to legislative decisions. For that reason, the New Jersey court criticized the Goodridge court for making a "normative judgment that conflicts with the traditional and still prevailing religious and societal view of marriage as a union between a man and a woman that plays a vital role in propagating the species and provides the ideal setting for raising children. Consequently . . . Goodridge does not establish a right of equal access to marriage . . . but instead significantly alters the nature of this social institution."
In a concurring opinion, Judge Parrillo explained that "distillation of marriage down to its pure 'close personal relationship' essence, however, strips the social institution 'of any goal or end beyond the intrinsic emotional, psychological, or sexual satisfaction which the relationship brings to the individuals involved.'" The majority also acknowledged that this personal, individualized view of marriage would require courts to declare unconstitutional those statutes prohibiting polygamy.
As to each of the constitutional claims, the court found the fundamental right to marriage protected by the state guarantee of privacy did not include marriages between same-sex couples. The court similarly found no equal protection violation because the couples had not demonstrated discrimination based on any protected right. The concurring opinion explained that "any societal judgment to level the playing field must appreciate the proper divide between judicial and legislative activity. . . . It is, therefore, a proper role for the legislature to weigh the societal costs against the societal benefits flowing from a profound change in the public meaning of marriage." The majority concluded, "absent legislative action, there is no basis for construing the New Jersey Constitution to compel the State to authorize marriages between members of the same sex."
Way to Go New Jersey!
A Must Read: The US Military Tortured Me!
The Citizen Journal offers this harrowing account of inhuman torture by the US military...Read it and be informed.
Here is an excerpt:
"We were driven onto the island in a bus late at night. They drove us all around the island before we could get off. I later learned that the reason for this tactic was to disorient us and to make escaping more difficult.
Immediately after the bus came to a stop military personnel boarded the bus and the verbal assaults which seemed to never end, commenced. We were kept awake for the rest of that night and through the next day. While we waited on line for shots and other medical procedures the verbal abuse continued. Some of us were so exhausted we fell asleep standing up.
They took the clothes off our backs and made us all wear the same clothing. Handing out the clothing was a military woman who screamed and cursed at us worse than any of the men. This was most humiliating.
Next they shaved our heads. Then they made us fill out forms in freezing cold room while they mocked us. To eat we got a sandwich which was half frozen. There were other food items included with the sandwich but the men in uniforms confiscated them."
Read more of the story here.
Then get a grip people. Thanks to Mr. Lalor for a bit of perspective upon this whole over-blown Gitmo situation. Semper Fi!
Here is an excerpt:
"We were driven onto the island in a bus late at night. They drove us all around the island before we could get off. I later learned that the reason for this tactic was to disorient us and to make escaping more difficult.
Immediately after the bus came to a stop military personnel boarded the bus and the verbal assaults which seemed to never end, commenced. We were kept awake for the rest of that night and through the next day. While we waited on line for shots and other medical procedures the verbal abuse continued. Some of us were so exhausted we fell asleep standing up.
They took the clothes off our backs and made us all wear the same clothing. Handing out the clothing was a military woman who screamed and cursed at us worse than any of the men. This was most humiliating.
Next they shaved our heads. Then they made us fill out forms in freezing cold room while they mocked us. To eat we got a sandwich which was half frozen. There were other food items included with the sandwich but the men in uniforms confiscated them."
Read more of the story here.
Then get a grip people. Thanks to Mr. Lalor for a bit of perspective upon this whole over-blown Gitmo situation. Semper Fi!
Monday, June 13, 2005
Matthew Fox's New Reformation? More like a New Pagan Revival
From the Ekklesia website:
"Crowds gathering at the famous Wittenberg Cathedral (Schlosskirche) have witnessed the nailing of 95 Theses for a New Reformation, by American theologian Matthew Fox.
Matthew Fox, a former Dominican priest and author of 26 popular religious and theological textbooks, is the founder of Wisdom University in Oakland California.
Fox's new book "A New Reformation!" lays down a challenge to the new Pope Benedict XVI and exposes what he see as part of the corruption of the papacy.
Fox and the new Pope are old opponents who had intensive debates on theological issues in the 1980s.
Fox and 100 other prominent theologians were allegedly silenced by then cardinal Ratzinger. A year later, Fox says he was forced to leave the Dominican Order by Pope John Paul II and subsequently converted to the Episcopal church.
Fox's new book calls for a new awakening for Christians. The book's premise is that we are confronted with two versions of Christianity: one that is fundamentalist and is characterized by a Punitive Father God, a rigidly hierarchical church structure, a belief that we are born of original sin, intolerance of gay lifestyles, and a fear of science. The other version of Christianity which is expressed by a loving God of justice and compassion, is earth centered and eco-conscious, is interfaith and lifestyle tolerant, embraces the feminine, believes in original blessing and encourages scientific thought.
Some of Fox's new takes on the 95 Theses include: "God is both Father and Mother;" "Religion is not necessary, but spirituality is;" and "Jesus said nothing about condoms, birth control or homosexuality."
Read the rest of the article here.
There is a reason why Pope John Paul II and the current Pope Benedict XVI, while cardinal, silenced Fox - he is outside the faith once delivered to the saints. His beliefs are a hybrid of ecological paganism with the slightest veneer of christianese. Which then, doesn't surprise me that he has been embraced by the Episcopal Church, home to such "theologians" as Bishop Spong. If ever a book needed to be flushed down the toilet this is it!
"Crowds gathering at the famous Wittenberg Cathedral (Schlosskirche) have witnessed the nailing of 95 Theses for a New Reformation, by American theologian Matthew Fox.
Matthew Fox, a former Dominican priest and author of 26 popular religious and theological textbooks, is the founder of Wisdom University in Oakland California.
Fox's new book "A New Reformation!" lays down a challenge to the new Pope Benedict XVI and exposes what he see as part of the corruption of the papacy.
Fox and the new Pope are old opponents who had intensive debates on theological issues in the 1980s.
Fox and 100 other prominent theologians were allegedly silenced by then cardinal Ratzinger. A year later, Fox says he was forced to leave the Dominican Order by Pope John Paul II and subsequently converted to the Episcopal church.
Fox's new book calls for a new awakening for Christians. The book's premise is that we are confronted with two versions of Christianity: one that is fundamentalist and is characterized by a Punitive Father God, a rigidly hierarchical church structure, a belief that we are born of original sin, intolerance of gay lifestyles, and a fear of science. The other version of Christianity which is expressed by a loving God of justice and compassion, is earth centered and eco-conscious, is interfaith and lifestyle tolerant, embraces the feminine, believes in original blessing and encourages scientific thought.
Some of Fox's new takes on the 95 Theses include: "God is both Father and Mother;" "Religion is not necessary, but spirituality is;" and "Jesus said nothing about condoms, birth control or homosexuality."
Read the rest of the article here.
There is a reason why Pope John Paul II and the current Pope Benedict XVI, while cardinal, silenced Fox - he is outside the faith once delivered to the saints. His beliefs are a hybrid of ecological paganism with the slightest veneer of christianese. Which then, doesn't surprise me that he has been embraced by the Episcopal Church, home to such "theologians" as Bishop Spong. If ever a book needed to be flushed down the toilet this is it!
It's About Time: Senate to Atone for Lynchings
World Magazine and USA Today are reporting that the Senate is set today to take up a resolution expressing remorse over the failure to enact anti-lynching laws over the past few decades.
"A resolution that the chamber was likely to take up Monday voices regret for the Senate's unwillingness for years to pass a law stopping a crime that cost the lives of over 4,700 people, mostly blacks, between 1882 and 1968... In the past, efforts to pass such legislation fell victim to Senate filibusters despite pleas for its passage by seven presidents, among others, between 1890 and 1952."
One wonders how former KKK keagle Robert Byrd, senator from West Virginia will vote? (A little historical aside: it was Senator Byrd who conducted a 14-hour filibuster in an attempt to kill the 1964 Civil Rights Act.)
Both parties should be willing to get behind this resloution and begin to atone for the collective silence of a nation in the face of these hate crimes. While it can do nothing to restore the lives lost, perhaps it might give their families a little more peace.
Update: By a voice vote the Senate apologized for the inaction of the body in the past. Read about it here.
"A resolution that the chamber was likely to take up Monday voices regret for the Senate's unwillingness for years to pass a law stopping a crime that cost the lives of over 4,700 people, mostly blacks, between 1882 and 1968... In the past, efforts to pass such legislation fell victim to Senate filibusters despite pleas for its passage by seven presidents, among others, between 1890 and 1952."
One wonders how former KKK keagle Robert Byrd, senator from West Virginia will vote? (A little historical aside: it was Senator Byrd who conducted a 14-hour filibuster in an attempt to kill the 1964 Civil Rights Act.)
Both parties should be willing to get behind this resloution and begin to atone for the collective silence of a nation in the face of these hate crimes. While it can do nothing to restore the lives lost, perhaps it might give their families a little more peace.
Update: By a voice vote the Senate apologized for the inaction of the body in the past. Read about it here.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
In the Arminian Garden
Tired of being without a floral motif vis-a-vis the Calvinists, the Arminians have just completed a summit in Possum Waller, Arkansas to select an appropriate symbol. Chairman Dave Hunt ruled that the Daisy faction had won over the Jack-in-a-Pulpit partisans late this afternoon in the second round of voting. The proposed acrostic looks as follows:
D- Diminished Depravity
A- Abrogated Election
I- Impersonal Atonement
S- Sedentary Grace
Y- Yieldable Justification
Pastor Eli Coots of the Backwoods Bible Institute made the announcement, "Gone are the days of acronmyical imbalance. Now we too have an easy to remember acrostic that all may freely use to oversimplify and misunderstand our system of belief! Let holy-rollers, faith healers, fundamentalists, Left Behind groupies and KJV Onlies of all stripes unite in celebrating this blessed event!" He later added that the acronym came with a bonus--the poetic symmetry between the uncertainty of one's own salvation that Arminians enjoy each day, and the petal-plucking ritual of the daisy--"he loves me, he loves me not..."
Thanks to Le Sabot Post-Moderne for this funny, yet somehow insightful post.
Sunday Spurgeon
"Every child of God is where God has placed him for some purpose, and the practical use of this first point is to lead you to inquire for what practical purpose has God placed each one of you where you now are?"
- CH Spurgeon
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Christian Carnival LXXIII Is Up!
Check out this week's showcase of Christian bloggers over at Reformed Politics. As always some great articles from the saints of cyberspace. Check it out!
Count Me In - Just Another South Park Republican
Beth over at My Vast Right Wing Conspiracy has opened up a gallery for South Park Republicans to show their true selves. The above is sadly a pretty close representation of yours truly. If you want to get your own South Park character check out the generator here. Then send it over to Beth to be included in "elite" company.
Clear Your Desks...Time For A Quiz
Just took a quiz on what is my theological world-view. My Church will be glad to hear this.
What's your theological worldview?
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| You scored as Reformed Evangelical. You are a Reformed Evangelical. You take the Bible very seriously because it is God's Word. You most likely hold to TULIP and are sceptical about the possibilities of universal atonement or resistible grace. The most important thing the Church can do is make sure people hear how they can go to heaven when they die. |
What's your theological worldview?
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QuizFarm.com
Monday, June 06, 2005
The High Cost of Discernment
As some of you who has followed this blog from the beginning may know, the denomination to which I belong (The Reformed Church in America) is in the midst of a crisis regarding homosexuality. Certain elements in the church are pushing for full inclusion of gay and lesbians in marriage and in ministry. This in spite of repeated declarations by our denomination that such things are unscriptural. Adopting a delay delay delay and drain drain drain tactic, this minority hopes to wear down the opposition and foist their view upon the church.
As someone who has stood in the breech against this onslaught I have been subjected to much ridicule, false accusations and a myriad of other unpleasant experiences. But I'm encouraged to stick with it when I read things like this article "The Cost of Discernment" by Dr. Robert Morey at Faith Defenders.
So brothers and sisters - Tolle et Legge...
As someone who has stood in the breech against this onslaught I have been subjected to much ridicule, false accusations and a myriad of other unpleasant experiences. But I'm encouraged to stick with it when I read things like this article "The Cost of Discernment" by Dr. Robert Morey at Faith Defenders.
So brothers and sisters - Tolle et Legge...
Joel Osteen - The 21st Century's Robert Schuller?
An article posted at the MinistryWatch.Com raises some important questions about the ministry and message of Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church, America's largest congregation.
Here are a few highlights from the article:
Michael Horton, a professor at Westminster Theological Seminary writes. “God is not
the center of his theology,” says Horton. “The center is me and my happiness.”
Horton says Osteen “trivializes the Christian faith” on a number of levels. “First he
trivializes God by making Him out to be some sort of cosmic bellhop, as if God exists for
us instead of us existing for Him,” says Horton. “Secondly, he trivializes the Bible by
turning it into a collection of fortune cookies to be opened and used for whatever we
want. And thirdly, he trivializes human beings and their real problems by trivializing
sin.”
“The biggest danger for believers who listen to Osteen is that they will not grow in their spiritual life with the Lord Jesus Christ,” says Robert Liichow of Discernment Minstry International. “It’s like eating spiritual Twinkies. They’re sweet, light and taste good, but a steady diet of them will stunt your growth and rot you from the inside out.”
Read the full article here.
I have listened to Osteen a few times and have come away with some of the same criticisms as Horton and Liichow. As a pastor in the Reformed Church in America, I have sadly too much experience with our own Robert Schuller of the Crystal Catherdral and his "Positive Thinking" message. And as Dr. Schuller nears retirement, it appears that the mantle has been passed to Joel Osteen. That is not a good thing...
FYI - A great review of Osteen's book can be found here.
Here are a few highlights from the article:
Michael Horton, a professor at Westminster Theological Seminary writes. “God is not
the center of his theology,” says Horton. “The center is me and my happiness.”
Horton says Osteen “trivializes the Christian faith” on a number of levels. “First he
trivializes God by making Him out to be some sort of cosmic bellhop, as if God exists for
us instead of us existing for Him,” says Horton. “Secondly, he trivializes the Bible by
turning it into a collection of fortune cookies to be opened and used for whatever we
want. And thirdly, he trivializes human beings and their real problems by trivializing
sin.”
“The biggest danger for believers who listen to Osteen is that they will not grow in their spiritual life with the Lord Jesus Christ,” says Robert Liichow of Discernment Minstry International. “It’s like eating spiritual Twinkies. They’re sweet, light and taste good, but a steady diet of them will stunt your growth and rot you from the inside out.”
Read the full article here.
I have listened to Osteen a few times and have come away with some of the same criticisms as Horton and Liichow. As a pastor in the Reformed Church in America, I have sadly too much experience with our own Robert Schuller of the Crystal Catherdral and his "Positive Thinking" message. And as Dr. Schuller nears retirement, it appears that the mantle has been passed to Joel Osteen. That is not a good thing...
FYI - A great review of Osteen's book can be found here.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Sunday Spurgeon
"As a rule, I believe congregations get out of a minister what they put into him; that is to say, if they pray much for him, God will give him much blessing for them."
- CH Spurgeon
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Friday, June 03, 2005
Exposing The True Agenda Behind Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage
As always Dr. Albert Mohler cuts to the very heart of the issue. Consider these opening paragraphs from his latest commentary:
“The cultural momentum towards the legalization of same-sex marriage is being driven by more than may at first appear. Advocates of same-sex marriage insist that their purpose is to see homosexual couples receive the same rights and privileges as married couples, and to experience the same set of satisfactions and responsibilities. Without debating their argument, at least for now, we can already see that their stated purpose does not represent the real energy behind their demand for same-sex marriage.
After all, the majority of same-sex couples have indicated no fundamental desire for marriage--only for the right to marry. Even in Massachusetts, where an activist court has declared same-sex marriage to be legal, the majority of homosexual couples remain unmarried. We can add to this fact the reality that the vast majority of homosexual couples seeking marriage in Massachusetts are lesbians, not gay men.
So, what is driving the demand for same-sex marriage? In the end, it has to be a desire to dethrone marriage as the one paramount obstacle to the full normalization and acceptance of same-sex relationships. As an institution, marriage defines itself as a reality, even as society invests marriage with certain recognized rights and responsibilities. More than anything else, the insistent drive for same-sex marriage must in actuality be an effort to relativize marriage by redefinition. As homosexual activist Michael Sigiorile has argued, marriage is an oppressive institution that must be destroyed in order to liberate human sexuality and establish true human freedom.
In attacking marriage as an objective institution, language constitutes a significant barrier. For the very word "marriage" has, at least until lately, always referred to a male-female bond. If same-sex marriage advocates have their way, marriage will be destroyed through the process of redefinition.”
Read his full commentary here: Same-Sex Marriage and the Integrity of Language
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Another Sign of The Decline Of The Mainline Church: Clown Eucharist
The Layman Online reports:
"Looking like refugees from Clown Alley at Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus, ministers and many parishioners participated in a "Clown Eucharist" at an Episcopal church in New York City.
Earlier, the rector of Trinity Church-St. Paul's Chapel Trinity Church, the Rev. Dr. James Herbert Cooper, encouraged the parish family to come to church "in clown dress, big hats, floppy shoes or some sort of foolish garb. Those watching on the Internet might even be foolish enough to put on some white face or a big grease-paint smile as we worship God and learn about the structure of the Eucharist by being the circus which came to town and to church on that day."
The article then goes on to explain the justification for this profanation of the Lord's Supper.
"While he [the Rev. Dr. James Herbert Cooper] admitted that it might "be a surprise to see clowns inside Trinity Church," he asked church members to think about "how we perceive the world in light of our relationship with Jesus could rightly be called foolish. Jesus looked at things in a new and strange way – a foolish way. But, as St. Paul said, the foolishness of God is wiser than the wisdom of the world. Paul declared himself a fool for Christ's sake."
According to Cooper, "clowns represent the underdog, the lowly, the remnant people. Their foolishness is a call to unpretentiousness. They take incredible risks – balancing on tight ropes, eating fire, keeping silent, being poked by others or getting soaked in water. Clowns are parables in themselves, spending great amounts of energy uncovering small things, then showing forth the hidden treasure of life (like the kingdom of God) and, surprisingly to us, giving their most cherished possessions to others. … Clowns look at the world, like parables, inside out and upside down: the last shall be first, the smallest seed is the greatest tree, and those who work all day get paid the same as those who worked an hour. To the world, this is foolishness."
No Rev. Cooper, you are the fool...
This garish and unseemly display only give critics of Christianity one more reason to scoff. To turn the sacrament into a circus devalues the precious body offered up and precious blood shed for the sins of the world. Such actions are rebuked by St. Paul who writes in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29, "Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 29For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself."
Such "wisdom of men" will only hasten the decline of the mainline churches in this country and for my part such a demise can not come to soon. Perhaps then the Church can get back to the serious business of sharing the Good News in a manner worthy of the One who has saved us and called us to His service.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Christian Carnival LXXII is Up!
Christian Carnival LXXII is up at A Physicist's Perspective. Check out some of the great articles from Christians bloggers all in one place.
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