What about Santa Claus? With our young children, it is fun to pretend there is this guy with eight tiny reindeer who lives at the North Pole. He delivers presents to every single household in the world all in one night! Just as other things, this will fade with age.
There is concern that the celebration of Christ’s birth during this season will be overshadowed by the anticipation of gifts, and the prominence of a make-believe “gift-bringer”. It is imperative that we discuss the historic figure of St. Nicholas with our children. Not so much Clement Moore’s depiction of “a right jolly old elf”, with rosy cheeks and twinkling eyes, but of the real man who lived a life devoted to God.
Between the blend of fact and legend, one thing is clear. He was a man of action, living out his Christian faith in word and deed. In all accounts, Bishop Nicholas would have readily agreed, the greatest gift ever given to mankind is salvation through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
History records, Nicholas was born in Patara, a city of southern Turkey, about 280 A.D. The only son of wealthy parents, Nicholas received instruction from the Holy Scriptures. From his youth, he disciplined himself through fasting and prayer. When his parents died, he began to give away all the money and property he had inherited to those who begged him for help. Nicholas earned a reputation for his kindness, generosity, and wisdom.
One account tells of a father who had lost all his money due to hard times. He had nothing to provide in dowries for his daughters. At midnight, Nicholas went to the man's home and threw a large bag of gold through a window, then fled into the darkness. Some say the bag landed in a stocking hung by the fire to dry. The father discovered the gold, and gave thanks to God, but did not know who had given him the money. Nicholas did many generous deeds; still others were attributed to him after his death.
Nicholas became the Archbishop of Myra. Stories written about him attest to his generosity and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ. After 303 AD, Nicholas was imprisoned for five years because he defied a command to worship Diocletian, the Roman Emperor, as a god. Even in prison, he instructed people in the Christian faith while confined to a small cell. Nicholas refused to recant from his beliefs, suffering cold, hunger, and thirst, but never wavering in his commitment. He was released during the reign of Constantine, and resumed his duties as Archbishop of Myra. Nicholas died on December 6, 343. By the year 450, churches in Asia Minor and Greece were named in honor of the bishop. By 800, he was recognized as a saint throughout the whole Church. Annual celebrations were held on the day of death, December 6.
Over the centuries, Saint Nicholas' popularity grew, as many people in Europe retold stories that illustrated his concern for children. Due to his secret generosity, and because his day is close to Christmas, legends developed about Saint Nicholas bringing gifts to children at Christmas time. He has many of names—Père Noël in France, and Father Christmas in England. Sailors called him their patron saint. The Dutch called him Sanct Herr Nicholaas, or Sinter Klaas. Early Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam (New York), brought their traditions of Saint Nicholas to North America. The pronunciation “Sinter Klaas”, gradually transformed into “Santa Claus.”
After the Protestant Reformation, many days celebrating saints were not observed as before. Several traditions surrounding Saint Nicholas survived though, but changed over time. Today’s image of a chubby, rosy Santa Claus who somehow keeps track of all naughty and nice children at his North Pole toy factory seems a far cry from the humble, austere fourth-century bishop. Essential qualities that endeared Saint Nicholas to many have remained through generations: his love for children, his generosity of spirit, and his ceaseless giving to others—always in the name and for the sake of his beloved Lord Jesus Christ.
Let us honor the Lord Jesus Christ in all we do and say, not only in our Christmas celebration, but with our lives every day of the year. In what is known of St. Nicholas’ character, there are aspects of a Christian faith “lived out”. It doesn’t really matter if Nicholas actually did everything that has been written about him. His active faith in Christ is what impacted people of his time, and has influenced others in each century that has followed him. Let us serve the Lord Jesus daily with our words and deeds, just as Bishop Nicholas served Him.
Yes, Virginia. There really was a St. Nicholas!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Thursday, November 01, 2007
GOD TALK-Lesson 8
He just had to finish Lesson 8
Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004-the fateful day started off like any other day in Beslan, Russia. Young children getting out of bed, to dress and eat; moms trying to get them to school on time.
There was Arthur, a young Russian boy. His mom, tried to get him out to door too. But Arthur insisted he had to finish Lesson 8, an assignment he was completing in his room.
Later on that day, once everyone was inside his school, terrorists sealed off the perimeter and held hostage some 1200 children, teachers and staff. Children were denied drinks and not even allowed to visit a bathroom. Three days later the shooting started, leaving 338 innocent people dead, including many children. Arthur was one of the young students killed that day.
Just prior to the tragedy, Samaritan’s Purse volunteers had been to the school in Beslan and had passed out gift-filled shoeboxes as part of the Operation Christmas Child project. As part of a follow-up to the gift distribution, forty children from the school had enrolled in The Mailbox Club-a series of Bible lessons prepared by Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF). Twenty-six of those enrolled were held hostage, and Arthur was one of the four who were killed.
Arthur had signed up for The Mailbox Club. He started taking the lessons, writing to the CEF center in Moscow. This type of correspondence is a BIG DEAL for a child living in rural Russia! Arthur had completed the first seven Bible lessons, in which he received a clear, simple presentation of how to receive Jesus Christ has his Savior.
Arthur insisted on completing final portion of Lesson 8 before leaving for school. No one knew that morning, he would not return home. After Arthur’s death, his mother found his Mailbox Club correspondence in his room.
At the bottom of the last page, Arthur had recorded his response to two questions.
“Have you taken the Lord Jesus as your Savior?”
“YES.”
“If so, when?”
“September 1, 2004”
Let the Lord use you in a big way to bring a message of hope to a child 2-14 yrs old. First pray! Wrap a standard sized shoe box and lid separately, and fill it with small toys, school supplies and hygiene items. You can include a note, card or picture. These shoe box gifts are delivered to children in desperate situations around the world. Only Eternity will tell the impact of your gift. Thank you to all in Red Bluff, who prayed and prepared 1,022 shoe boxes last year, for a total of 7.6 million distributed in over 90 countries in 2006. Thanks to all who will join in this year.
Samaritan’s Purse links with local churches and ministries in destination countries who deliver the gifts as part of their local outreach. Shoe box gifts are transported in a variety of ways including ships, helicopters, camels, mules, airplanes and canoes.
To receive a PDF copy of the CEF report of Arthur’s story, please send me an email to jlauriemy@redbluff.com
Listen to a special OCC edition of Pray North State Radio, Saturday, Nov. 17, at 8 AM on 1490 KBLF, 9 AM on KNTK102.3 FM, and Sunday 7AM on KLXR 1230 AM.
The Operation Christmas Child shoe box collection week is Nov. 12-19, at Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. 527-4203
Collection hrs. Mon.–Sat.10am to 2pm, Sun. 10 am to 4 pm, final Monday, 10am to 6 pm.
Information and materials are available at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ or 1-800-353-5949.
Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004-the fateful day started off like any other day in Beslan, Russia. Young children getting out of bed, to dress and eat; moms trying to get them to school on time.
There was Arthur, a young Russian boy. His mom, tried to get him out to door too. But Arthur insisted he had to finish Lesson 8, an assignment he was completing in his room.
Later on that day, once everyone was inside his school, terrorists sealed off the perimeter and held hostage some 1200 children, teachers and staff. Children were denied drinks and not even allowed to visit a bathroom. Three days later the shooting started, leaving 338 innocent people dead, including many children. Arthur was one of the young students killed that day.
Just prior to the tragedy, Samaritan’s Purse volunteers had been to the school in Beslan and had passed out gift-filled shoeboxes as part of the Operation Christmas Child project. As part of a follow-up to the gift distribution, forty children from the school had enrolled in The Mailbox Club-a series of Bible lessons prepared by Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF). Twenty-six of those enrolled were held hostage, and Arthur was one of the four who were killed.
Arthur had signed up for The Mailbox Club. He started taking the lessons, writing to the CEF center in Moscow. This type of correspondence is a BIG DEAL for a child living in rural Russia! Arthur had completed the first seven Bible lessons, in which he received a clear, simple presentation of how to receive Jesus Christ has his Savior.
Arthur insisted on completing final portion of Lesson 8 before leaving for school. No one knew that morning, he would not return home. After Arthur’s death, his mother found his Mailbox Club correspondence in his room.
At the bottom of the last page, Arthur had recorded his response to two questions.
“Have you taken the Lord Jesus as your Savior?”
“YES.”
“If so, when?”
“September 1, 2004”
Let the Lord use you in a big way to bring a message of hope to a child 2-14 yrs old. First pray! Wrap a standard sized shoe box and lid separately, and fill it with small toys, school supplies and hygiene items. You can include a note, card or picture. These shoe box gifts are delivered to children in desperate situations around the world. Only Eternity will tell the impact of your gift. Thank you to all in Red Bluff, who prayed and prepared 1,022 shoe boxes last year, for a total of 7.6 million distributed in over 90 countries in 2006. Thanks to all who will join in this year.
Samaritan’s Purse links with local churches and ministries in destination countries who deliver the gifts as part of their local outreach. Shoe box gifts are transported in a variety of ways including ships, helicopters, camels, mules, airplanes and canoes.
To receive a PDF copy of the CEF report of Arthur’s story, please send me an email to jlauriemy@redbluff.com
Listen to a special OCC edition of Pray North State Radio, Saturday, Nov. 17, at 8 AM on 1490 KBLF, 9 AM on KNTK102.3 FM, and Sunday 7AM on KLXR 1230 AM.
The Operation Christmas Child shoe box collection week is Nov. 12-19, at Community Baptist Church 598 Round-Up Ave. Red Bluff. 527-4203
Collection hrs. Mon.–Sat.10am to 2pm, Sun. 10 am to 4 pm, final Monday, 10am to 6 pm.
Information and materials are available at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ or 1-800-353-5949.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
GOD TALK-KVIP IS ON THE AIR !
“…give the wind a mighty voice .Jesus saves! Jesus saves!” These are the words of an Christian anthem. This is the continuing message of Christian radio KVIP AM/FM. Pacific Cascade Communications (PCC), is a non-profit ministry with a small beginning; one that now touches the lives of thousands of individuals across five states.
Driving down Hartnell Ave, east of Churn Creek Road in Redding, one would pass right by the studio, tucked behind buildings, out of view from the street; its high tower hidden in among the trees. The only visible indicator at roadside, 1139 Hartnell Ave, is a small square sign among a cluster of signs-“Christian Radio KVIP.”
What the radio ministry lacks in “high visibility” is more than made up for in a large “broadcast presence”. There are very few areas in the remote mountain regions above Redding, where the KVIP-FM signal cannot be received. The FM signal is carried by some 30 radio translators to five states-California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon and Washington.
In the 1960’s, KVIP was a commercial radio station in Redding. The program manager at the time, spewed out daily rants against Judeo-Christian theology and values, rejected the Bible’s account of creation, and regularly poked fun at religion - Christianity in particular.
Royal Blue, pastor of the Redding’s North Valley Baptist Church at the time, said the station manager’s constant verbal barrage so infuriated the ladies of the Wednesday night prayer meetings, they began to pray that KVIP radio would go off the air.
Some years earlier, while a youth pastor in Van Nuys, Ca., Royal Blue had written a paper titled, “Evolution vs. The Biblical Account of Creation”. In 1968, Pastor Blue was invited by KVIP management to debate the topic on the air with a Shasta College professor. Instead of coming to the live debate, the professor sent a tape recording. The manager and Pastor Blue discussed the theory of evolution as presented on the recording, and compared it to the Biblical record.
Within a year after the debate, KVIP-AM radio was for sale at a price of $45,000. The $3,000 down payment to purchase KVIP radio was pledged at a Wednesday night prayer meeting at North Valley Baptist Church.
On January 4, 1970, at 12:00 a.m., Christian Radio KVIP-540 AM first aired as an affiliate of the Family Radio Network. The KVIP staff was greatly encouraged when correspondence was received from a listener in Germany, and from someone else on a ship out at sea. Both individuals had heard the debut broadcast from Redding. “We knew then, that God had a special plan for KVIP radio”, said Pastor Blue. “We have experienced nothing but blessings over the years.”
The ministry has been listener-supported since day one. KVIP has a constant base of financial supporters each month. Special Fall and Spring Share-A-Thons are conducted each year to raise funds for equipment upgrades, and special needs related to the PCC ministry. A Share-A-Thon, gives listeners an opportunity to make a 6-month financial pledge, but also to share testimonies of how the station’s programming has touched their lives.
In October 1975, KVIP-98.1 FM was added. It was Redding’s first FM frequency granted by the Federal Communication Commission. In the early 80’s, KVIP began producing its own programs and joined Moody Broadcasting Network of Chicago, Ill. In 1985, Pacific Cascade Communications purchased KGRV-700 AM, Roseburg, Oregon, a commercial Christian radio station. Today, KGRV still features Christian programming along with commercials. Although owned by PCC, it is responsible for its own funding.
In 2002, PCC purchased a second FM base station, KMWR in Brookings, Oregon, which now simulcasts the daily programming of KVIP-FM, Redding.
From the beginning, KVIP has never intended to be “entertainment”, although much of its programming is entertaining. Rather than promoting a play list of the “Top 40 Christian Hits”, the non-profit ministry views itself as an “arm of the Church”, presenting news and information features such as James Dobson’s “Focus On The Family”. There are also preaching and teaching programs from a variety of sources around the nation.
A unique feature of the KVIP weekday schedule is the “Card Ministry” hosted by Carolyn McBride at 8:05 am, where listeners have opportunity to send cards of encouragement to shut-ins, the elderly, and others in need. There is also “Prayer Time” with Ted Hering at 11:45 am. The Saturday schedule includes children’s programs such as Adventure’s In Odyssey at 8 am. In the afternoon, there is the music of the “KVIP Country Barbeque” at 2 pm, followed at 5 pm by Bill Gaither’s “Gaither Homecoming Radio”.
Each Spring, KVIP presents a Listener Appreciation Banquet, that is free to anyone who wants to attend. KVIP has created the “World’s Largest Baby Shower”, an annual event to assist the efforts of local CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Centers. The “baby shower” promotes the donation of practical gift items-diapers, bags, clothing, strollers, etc. for expectant parents.
KVIP has many Very Inspiring Programs at 98.1 FM and 540 AM aired 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To the south the FM signal reaches the Williams area, while the AM signal can be heard in the Fairfield.
KVIP radio assists ministries and churches who submit information for public service announcements. Broadcast schedules and information can be found a http://www.kvip.org/, or by calling 530-222-4455.
Driving down Hartnell Ave, east of Churn Creek Road in Redding, one would pass right by the studio, tucked behind buildings, out of view from the street; its high tower hidden in among the trees. The only visible indicator at roadside, 1139 Hartnell Ave, is a small square sign among a cluster of signs-“Christian Radio KVIP.”
What the radio ministry lacks in “high visibility” is more than made up for in a large “broadcast presence”. There are very few areas in the remote mountain regions above Redding, where the KVIP-FM signal cannot be received. The FM signal is carried by some 30 radio translators to five states-California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon and Washington.
In the 1960’s, KVIP was a commercial radio station in Redding. The program manager at the time, spewed out daily rants against Judeo-Christian theology and values, rejected the Bible’s account of creation, and regularly poked fun at religion - Christianity in particular.
Royal Blue, pastor of the Redding’s North Valley Baptist Church at the time, said the station manager’s constant verbal barrage so infuriated the ladies of the Wednesday night prayer meetings, they began to pray that KVIP radio would go off the air.
Some years earlier, while a youth pastor in Van Nuys, Ca., Royal Blue had written a paper titled, “Evolution vs. The Biblical Account of Creation”. In 1968, Pastor Blue was invited by KVIP management to debate the topic on the air with a Shasta College professor. Instead of coming to the live debate, the professor sent a tape recording. The manager and Pastor Blue discussed the theory of evolution as presented on the recording, and compared it to the Biblical record.
Within a year after the debate, KVIP-AM radio was for sale at a price of $45,000. The $3,000 down payment to purchase KVIP radio was pledged at a Wednesday night prayer meeting at North Valley Baptist Church.
On January 4, 1970, at 12:00 a.m., Christian Radio KVIP-540 AM first aired as an affiliate of the Family Radio Network. The KVIP staff was greatly encouraged when correspondence was received from a listener in Germany, and from someone else on a ship out at sea. Both individuals had heard the debut broadcast from Redding. “We knew then, that God had a special plan for KVIP radio”, said Pastor Blue. “We have experienced nothing but blessings over the years.”
The ministry has been listener-supported since day one. KVIP has a constant base of financial supporters each month. Special Fall and Spring Share-A-Thons are conducted each year to raise funds for equipment upgrades, and special needs related to the PCC ministry. A Share-A-Thon, gives listeners an opportunity to make a 6-month financial pledge, but also to share testimonies of how the station’s programming has touched their lives.
In October 1975, KVIP-98.1 FM was added. It was Redding’s first FM frequency granted by the Federal Communication Commission. In the early 80’s, KVIP began producing its own programs and joined Moody Broadcasting Network of Chicago, Ill. In 1985, Pacific Cascade Communications purchased KGRV-700 AM, Roseburg, Oregon, a commercial Christian radio station. Today, KGRV still features Christian programming along with commercials. Although owned by PCC, it is responsible for its own funding.
In 2002, PCC purchased a second FM base station, KMWR in Brookings, Oregon, which now simulcasts the daily programming of KVIP-FM, Redding.
From the beginning, KVIP has never intended to be “entertainment”, although much of its programming is entertaining. Rather than promoting a play list of the “Top 40 Christian Hits”, the non-profit ministry views itself as an “arm of the Church”, presenting news and information features such as James Dobson’s “Focus On The Family”. There are also preaching and teaching programs from a variety of sources around the nation.
A unique feature of the KVIP weekday schedule is the “Card Ministry” hosted by Carolyn McBride at 8:05 am, where listeners have opportunity to send cards of encouragement to shut-ins, the elderly, and others in need. There is also “Prayer Time” with Ted Hering at 11:45 am. The Saturday schedule includes children’s programs such as Adventure’s In Odyssey at 8 am. In the afternoon, there is the music of the “KVIP Country Barbeque” at 2 pm, followed at 5 pm by Bill Gaither’s “Gaither Homecoming Radio”.
Each Spring, KVIP presents a Listener Appreciation Banquet, that is free to anyone who wants to attend. KVIP has created the “World’s Largest Baby Shower”, an annual event to assist the efforts of local CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Centers. The “baby shower” promotes the donation of practical gift items-diapers, bags, clothing, strollers, etc. for expectant parents.
KVIP has many Very Inspiring Programs at 98.1 FM and 540 AM aired 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To the south the FM signal reaches the Williams area, while the AM signal can be heard in the Fairfield.
KVIP radio assists ministries and churches who submit information for public service announcements. Broadcast schedules and information can be found a http://www.kvip.org/, or by calling 530-222-4455.
NEWS ITEM -MLMT Coloring BOOK !
RED BLUFF After getting the idea for a unique kids' coloring book six years ago, a Red Bluff man is finally seeing his idea take flight, as the activity book, "Monster Truck Adventure" is now complete.
Jay Nelson, owner and founder of Big Ideas, Inc., said after searching for people to help with the coloring book, he was lucky with the perfect skills to get his book idea where he wanted it to be.
Through the help of computer graphic specialist Donna Setterlund and artist Jim Hill, both of Red Bluff, the book project has reached completion just in time for the 10th annual Major League of Monster Trucks West Coast Championships.
The book will debut this weekend at the popular event.
Nelson said when he attended the event each year, he noticed hundreds of children taking home with them checkered flags, posters, toys and event T-shirts.
"I want them to be able to take something home that they can interact with and learn from," Nelson said. "With the coloring book, kids can re-live the fun memories from the monster truck event."
The coloring book contains drawings that Hill has hand-drawn from the ground up.
The activity book also contains dot-to-dot puzzles and word searches, that Nelson said kids can learn while they color the books the way they see the event in their own imaginations.
Nelson said the characters in the book depict the fact that girls and boys alike, love monster trucks. Nelson's daughter Emyleigh and her cousin Wyatt Froome were the original inspiration for the story in the book.
Nelson is the brother-in-law of Joe and Kellie Froome, who are owners of the Major League of Monster Trucks.
Because Red Bluff is where the event started 10 years ago, Nelson said he is happy that the book will make its first appearance to the hometown fans.
With the combination of his creative children's story in the book, Hill's realistic artistry and Setterlund's bright and innovative layout ideas, Nelson said he thinks the book will be a hit with children.
The books will come with a pack of crayons and will be sold at the Monster Truck Parade on Thursday at 6 p.m. and at the Major League of Monster Trucks event at the Tehama District Fairground throughout the weekend.
---------
Staff writer Stevie Ipsen can be reached at 527-2153, extension 114 or sipsen@redbluffdailynews.com
Jay Nelson, owner and founder of Big Ideas, Inc., said after searching for people to help with the coloring book, he was lucky with the perfect skills to get his book idea where he wanted it to be.
Through the help of computer graphic specialist Donna Setterlund and artist Jim Hill, both of Red Bluff, the book project has reached completion just in time for the 10th annual Major League of Monster Trucks West Coast Championships.
The book will debut this weekend at the popular event.
Nelson said when he attended the event each year, he noticed hundreds of children taking home with them checkered flags, posters, toys and event T-shirts.
"I want them to be able to take something home that they can interact with and learn from," Nelson said. "With the coloring book, kids can re-live the fun memories from the monster truck event."
The coloring book contains drawings that Hill has hand-drawn from the ground up.
The activity book also contains dot-to-dot puzzles and word searches, that Nelson said kids can learn while they color the books the way they see the event in their own imaginations.
Nelson said the characters in the book depict the fact that girls and boys alike, love monster trucks. Nelson's daughter Emyleigh and her cousin Wyatt Froome were the original inspiration for the story in the book.
Nelson is the brother-in-law of Joe and Kellie Froome, who are owners of the Major League of Monster Trucks.
Because Red Bluff is where the event started 10 years ago, Nelson said he is happy that the book will make its first appearance to the hometown fans.
With the combination of his creative children's story in the book, Hill's realistic artistry and Setterlund's bright and innovative layout ideas, Nelson said he thinks the book will be a hit with children.
The books will come with a pack of crayons and will be sold at the Monster Truck Parade on Thursday at 6 p.m. and at the Major League of Monster Trucks event at the Tehama District Fairground throughout the weekend.
---------
Staff writer Stevie Ipsen can be reached at 527-2153, extension 114 or sipsen@redbluffdailynews.com
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
The Major League Of Monster Trucks !
Check out the Infrerno Tour '07 at www.majorleagueofmonstertrucks.com Monster Truck racing at its wildest in several NASCAR venues nationwide.
GOD TALK-Lose My Luggage! Please
I recently finished reading a book by Betty Maltz called “My Glimpse of Eternity” published by Chosen Books in 1977. It is Betty’s story of how in 1959 her appendix burst, and because an error in prognosis, she went untreated for eleven days. She died after gangrene permeated through all of her organs. Life support systems were removed, the sheet was pulled over her head. After her look into eternity she came back to life again in a dark empty hospital room.
As a Christian, she tells of the beauty she was allowed to see. Since reading her book, I have been thinking a great deal about heaven. About what awaits the person who has put his or her trust in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin. Nobody need miss this joy!
The few times I have sat in airports in Sacramento, Topeka, LA, Cleveland, San Francisco and Las Vegas, I have observed the arrival of hundreds weary passengers as they have made their way off the planes to be greeted by those waiting to welcome them. These experiences have caused me to think of heaven.
In expectation of a flight to the Atlantic Coast soon, the idea of travel has been on my mind lately. I have yet to experience the loss of my luggage on a flight. In life, we acquire “baggage”. It might be the baggage of wounds from hurts, misunderstanding, uses, and abuses. Or the baggage might be the scars of broken relationships, unmet goals and expectations. The baggage might be a disability or long term illness. In death, all of this “luggage” will drop off. It will not be carried beyond death. This is good news, especially for those who have suffered greatly. I have a bit of “luggage”I am ready to lose.
In our world of day to day work, debts, ipods, email, appointments, successes and failures, cell phones and deadlines, we have a tendency to ignore the reality of eternity. There is an existence after we draw our last breath -a destiny beyond this life. The Bible speaks of two destinations of souls after death- a place of everlasting joy, and also a place of everlasting torment.
Gospel singer, Dottie Rambo once wrote a song which says“We shall behold Him (Jesus) face to face in all of His glory.” This is the expectation of those who have repented and trusted Jesus Christ to forgive their sin. These will then “see Him just as He is”.
What will make heaven a joyful experience is that Jesus is there. It will be the continuation of a relationship with Him that has its beginning here on earth.
There are scoffers and cynics, but Jesus said “I am the way, the truth and the life”.
In the words of Billy Graham, these are not my own words, this is what Jesus said about Himself.
If you are curious with questions about the eternity, but want to remain anonymous, I recommend dialing 1-888-NEED-HIM. Pray. You have an excellent opportunity to find answers. In time, contact and attend a congregation listed each Saturday in the newspaper. Don’t expect anyone there to be perfect ! Seek out a Bible teacher who welcomes discussion, encourages your questions, and invites you to do your own careful study of the material presented.
As a Christian, she tells of the beauty she was allowed to see. Since reading her book, I have been thinking a great deal about heaven. About what awaits the person who has put his or her trust in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin. Nobody need miss this joy!
The few times I have sat in airports in Sacramento, Topeka, LA, Cleveland, San Francisco and Las Vegas, I have observed the arrival of hundreds weary passengers as they have made their way off the planes to be greeted by those waiting to welcome them. These experiences have caused me to think of heaven.
In expectation of a flight to the Atlantic Coast soon, the idea of travel has been on my mind lately. I have yet to experience the loss of my luggage on a flight. In life, we acquire “baggage”. It might be the baggage of wounds from hurts, misunderstanding, uses, and abuses. Or the baggage might be the scars of broken relationships, unmet goals and expectations. The baggage might be a disability or long term illness. In death, all of this “luggage” will drop off. It will not be carried beyond death. This is good news, especially for those who have suffered greatly. I have a bit of “luggage”I am ready to lose.
In our world of day to day work, debts, ipods, email, appointments, successes and failures, cell phones and deadlines, we have a tendency to ignore the reality of eternity. There is an existence after we draw our last breath -a destiny beyond this life. The Bible speaks of two destinations of souls after death- a place of everlasting joy, and also a place of everlasting torment.
Gospel singer, Dottie Rambo once wrote a song which says“We shall behold Him (Jesus) face to face in all of His glory.” This is the expectation of those who have repented and trusted Jesus Christ to forgive their sin. These will then “see Him just as He is”.
What will make heaven a joyful experience is that Jesus is there. It will be the continuation of a relationship with Him that has its beginning here on earth.
There are scoffers and cynics, but Jesus said “I am the way, the truth and the life”.
In the words of Billy Graham, these are not my own words, this is what Jesus said about Himself.
If you are curious with questions about the eternity, but want to remain anonymous, I recommend dialing 1-888-NEED-HIM. Pray. You have an excellent opportunity to find answers. In time, contact and attend a congregation listed each Saturday in the newspaper. Don’t expect anyone there to be perfect ! Seek out a Bible teacher who welcomes discussion, encourages your questions, and invites you to do your own careful study of the material presented.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Check out "The Major League Of Monster Trucks"!
Hey, all you monster truck fans! Be sure to keep an eye on a NASCAR arena near you. There is a good possibility that you could have an opportunity to see side by side monster truck racing in a city near you in the coming months.
More later on this.
More later on this.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Coloring Book Project Almost Finished....
Very soon I hope to have a product ready to market. I am looking for possible sponsors for this motorsports item. Hoorah!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
GOD TALK-Faith Comes By Hearing
An organization, called “Faith Comes by Hearing” has made it their mission to get the audio Bible translated into as many languages as there are people without Bibles.They translate the whole New Testament into an audio version, into languages that have no access to Scriptures (because nothing has been translated into that language). It is similar to what Wycliffe Bible translators do, but this is an audio version. And, they have this amazingly cool thing called “The Proclaimer” that they give to people. Some stats about the Proclaimer:
The Scriptures are programmed on a microchip already installed and will not erase or wear out from frequent playing.The battery will play 15 hours and can be recharged enough times to play the entire New Testament over 600 times.The Proclaimer has a built in generator and solar charger to charge the battery.The solar charger, in addition to charging the battery, will run the Proclaimer even without battery power as long as there is sunlight. In other words, as long as there is a sun in the sky the Proclaimer will play the Son’s Words.The sound is digital quality and loud enough to be heard clearly by groups of 300.
Apparently, there are approximately 6,600 unreached people groups—no one knows for sure how many people that is, but this particular organization figures it at 1.7 billion people. An unreached people group can be defined as: “a group of people among which there is no viable indigenous church movement with sufficient strength, resources, and commitment to sustain and ensure the continuous multiplication of churches”. Most of these groups have no Bible in their own language. Imagine that! I can drive 10 minutes to the local Christian bookstore and choose from hundreds of different Bibles: in a multitude of translations, colors, with various maps, devotionals, and other helpful resources. Imagine not having any copy of the Bible in your language…how awful would that be?!
Faith comes by Hearing (http://www.fcbh.org/) allows churches the opportunity to sponsor a whole audio NT in a particular language…or you can sponsor one book of the Bible (which is roughly $950…but that includes all the translation, the technology, and getting it to the people). I think the whole thing is pretty amazing…especially considering that just because a Bible is translated into a certain language does not guarantee that people are literate and will actually be able to read it. “Faith Comes by Hearing” has statistics on their site about Americans and their literacy levels. I can imagine, in contrast to a nation which considers itself highly educated, that things might be a lot worse (in terms of literacy) in other parts of the world. These statistics are part of the organizations rationale for the need of AUDIO, rather than print, New Testaments.
DID YOU KNOW?• Only 40% of Americans know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.• Fewer than half of American adults can name all four Gospels.• Adults under the age of 30 and people who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than older adults.• People who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than members of large churches.• 43% of American adults function at or below basic literacy levels – making them incapable of meaningful Bible reading.• People who are functionally illiterate process information differently than people who are literate – they require story telling and dialog, not exposition, to understand and retain information.• Only 54% of Protestant adults read the Bible each week.• 65% of adults who identified themselves as Bible readers have never read the entire New Testament.• In a survey of more than 500 pastors, 47% cited “lack of time” as the main reason more Christians don’t read the Bible.• Americans spend, on average, 2 ½ hours in the car each day.• There are now 75 million unchurched Americans.• More than half of unchurched people consider themselves Christian.• By the year 2010, an estimated 10% to 20% of Americans will obtain religious information exclusively or primarily through the Internet.• 85% of American adults own at least one type of personal computer.• Apple Computer Inc. has sold over 42.2 million iPods since introducing the product in October 2001.• By 2009, total iPods sales in the U.S. are expected to top 65 million.• 40% of people born between 1984 and 2002 own mobile music players such as iPods.It is interesting food for thought. It makes me grateful for the privileges I have had in my life. I am a Christian today because of the Scriptures. It is the Gospels that led me into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. My heart breaks for people who do not have access to the only Message that will give LIFE.“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”~Hebrews 4:12
The Scriptures are programmed on a microchip already installed and will not erase or wear out from frequent playing.The battery will play 15 hours and can be recharged enough times to play the entire New Testament over 600 times.The Proclaimer has a built in generator and solar charger to charge the battery.The solar charger, in addition to charging the battery, will run the Proclaimer even without battery power as long as there is sunlight. In other words, as long as there is a sun in the sky the Proclaimer will play the Son’s Words.The sound is digital quality and loud enough to be heard clearly by groups of 300.
Apparently, there are approximately 6,600 unreached people groups—no one knows for sure how many people that is, but this particular organization figures it at 1.7 billion people. An unreached people group can be defined as: “a group of people among which there is no viable indigenous church movement with sufficient strength, resources, and commitment to sustain and ensure the continuous multiplication of churches”. Most of these groups have no Bible in their own language. Imagine that! I can drive 10 minutes to the local Christian bookstore and choose from hundreds of different Bibles: in a multitude of translations, colors, with various maps, devotionals, and other helpful resources. Imagine not having any copy of the Bible in your language…how awful would that be?!
Faith comes by Hearing (http://www.fcbh.org/) allows churches the opportunity to sponsor a whole audio NT in a particular language…or you can sponsor one book of the Bible (which is roughly $950…but that includes all the translation, the technology, and getting it to the people). I think the whole thing is pretty amazing…especially considering that just because a Bible is translated into a certain language does not guarantee that people are literate and will actually be able to read it. “Faith Comes by Hearing” has statistics on their site about Americans and their literacy levels. I can imagine, in contrast to a nation which considers itself highly educated, that things might be a lot worse (in terms of literacy) in other parts of the world. These statistics are part of the organizations rationale for the need of AUDIO, rather than print, New Testaments.
DID YOU KNOW?• Only 40% of Americans know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.• Fewer than half of American adults can name all four Gospels.• Adults under the age of 30 and people who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than older adults.• People who attend small churches express greater difficulties with Bible knowledge than members of large churches.• 43% of American adults function at or below basic literacy levels – making them incapable of meaningful Bible reading.• People who are functionally illiterate process information differently than people who are literate – they require story telling and dialog, not exposition, to understand and retain information.• Only 54% of Protestant adults read the Bible each week.• 65% of adults who identified themselves as Bible readers have never read the entire New Testament.• In a survey of more than 500 pastors, 47% cited “lack of time” as the main reason more Christians don’t read the Bible.• Americans spend, on average, 2 ½ hours in the car each day.• There are now 75 million unchurched Americans.• More than half of unchurched people consider themselves Christian.• By the year 2010, an estimated 10% to 20% of Americans will obtain religious information exclusively or primarily through the Internet.• 85% of American adults own at least one type of personal computer.• Apple Computer Inc. has sold over 42.2 million iPods since introducing the product in October 2001.• By 2009, total iPods sales in the U.S. are expected to top 65 million.• 40% of people born between 1984 and 2002 own mobile music players such as iPods.It is interesting food for thought. It makes me grateful for the privileges I have had in my life. I am a Christian today because of the Scriptures. It is the Gospels that led me into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. My heart breaks for people who do not have access to the only Message that will give LIFE.“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”~Hebrews 4:12
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
GOD TALK-William Wilberforce-The Power of Encouragement
February 23, 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of Britain’s abolition of slavery. William Wilberforce fought an almost single-handed battle in Parliament in tenacious pursuit of changing the hearts and minds of his colleagues to bring an end to slavery. Many of these leaders had invested money in America's plantations and the slave trade was necessary to their prosperity.
Who was this man who led this charge? What motivated him to be a champion for cause of abolition?
The year was 1785, and William Wilberforce at age 24, as a Member of Parliament was a rising star in Britain’s political circles. He enjoyed wealth, power, and prestige and had the reputation of a playboy, who frequented all the best clubs of England. He met Isaac Milner, an “evangelical” Christian and renowned Cambridge tutor. William was intrigued that Milner was both a Christian and intellectual. William, though successful, felt empty within himself. After numerous conversations with Milner, he confessed his sins to God and placed his trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness. He matured to be a man of strong conviction and faith in God the Creator.
Wilberforce was greatly influenced by fellow Christian, John Newton, a former slave trader. Newton had experienced the grace of God in his own dramatic conversion. He is best known as the author of the popular hymn “Amazing Grace”.
After his conversion, William considered withdrawing from involvement in Parliament because he could imagine how anyone could be both a true Christian and a politician. He had his doubts that Biblical teachings could be lived out in practice among the temptations and trappings of “high society” that surrounded the British politics of his day.
John Newton encouraged Wilberforce to take the lead in changing his country through political action in British Parliament.
Newton boldly suggested to William, it was quite possible that God had lifted him to his position in Parliament for the good of His Church and the good of the nation.
Wilberforce would later declare publicly that God Almighty had given to him the suppression of the Slave Trade as his life’s mission.
He persevered for twenty years trying to persuade Parliament, until the goal of his life’s work was realized. His persistence was rewarded. Three days before he died, news was delivered to William Wilberforce from London that Britain’s Parliament had finally passed the Bill for the Abolition of Slavery on February 23, 1807. It forever outlawed the transportation, ownership, buying and selling of slaves in England. It would take another 62 years and a civil war, for the Congress of the United States to reach the same resolve to abolish slavery. The13th Amendment to the Constitution was passed December 6, 1865.
Many things can bring discouragement- a difficult task, unrealistic expectations, or circumstances that bring disappointment. All these can seem like battering rams trying to “pound holes in our walls”. There is always the temptation to give up, or not try at all.
When someone provides encouragement, it can make a difference. Think of the positive impact each person can have on the life of another- your husband, your wife, a teenager, child, single parent, employee, customer, student, pastor, co-worker, or group. Take inventory of those who have spoken into your life for the good. Take steps to inspire others.
In our community, several entities would also appreciate your encouragement as well; either volunteering or financial contributions. Looking around, you would find the CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Center, the Salvation Army, the PATH Shelter, the State Theatre for the Arts, the “Back to School” program of Zion Ministries, the Northern California Burn Foundation, Corning Christian Assistance, the Boy Scouts, the Campfire Girls, the Guardian Angels, and your church- to name just a few.
Within our federal, state, county, and city governments, many elected and unelected individuals have a sincere desire to make the best decisions in matters that affect our lives and future. As we offer public suggestions, commentary and creative criticism, as to policy, and as to how these individuals should lead, let us also remember to send them words of encouragement and pray for them. This may seem a very odd notion to some. Just do it. What’s the best that can happen? Mixed with faith, the power of encouragement can do wonders.
A film “Amazing Grace-The William Wilberforce Story” was released nation-wide on Feb. 23. James Dobson’s Focus on the Family ministry is also releasing a radio -theatre drama by the same title. Check out www.family.org and info@kvip.org for regional broadcast schedules.
Who was this man who led this charge? What motivated him to be a champion for cause of abolition?
The year was 1785, and William Wilberforce at age 24, as a Member of Parliament was a rising star in Britain’s political circles. He enjoyed wealth, power, and prestige and had the reputation of a playboy, who frequented all the best clubs of England. He met Isaac Milner, an “evangelical” Christian and renowned Cambridge tutor. William was intrigued that Milner was both a Christian and intellectual. William, though successful, felt empty within himself. After numerous conversations with Milner, he confessed his sins to God and placed his trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness. He matured to be a man of strong conviction and faith in God the Creator.
Wilberforce was greatly influenced by fellow Christian, John Newton, a former slave trader. Newton had experienced the grace of God in his own dramatic conversion. He is best known as the author of the popular hymn “Amazing Grace”.
After his conversion, William considered withdrawing from involvement in Parliament because he could imagine how anyone could be both a true Christian and a politician. He had his doubts that Biblical teachings could be lived out in practice among the temptations and trappings of “high society” that surrounded the British politics of his day.
John Newton encouraged Wilberforce to take the lead in changing his country through political action in British Parliament.
Newton boldly suggested to William, it was quite possible that God had lifted him to his position in Parliament for the good of His Church and the good of the nation.
Wilberforce would later declare publicly that God Almighty had given to him the suppression of the Slave Trade as his life’s mission.
He persevered for twenty years trying to persuade Parliament, until the goal of his life’s work was realized. His persistence was rewarded. Three days before he died, news was delivered to William Wilberforce from London that Britain’s Parliament had finally passed the Bill for the Abolition of Slavery on February 23, 1807. It forever outlawed the transportation, ownership, buying and selling of slaves in England. It would take another 62 years and a civil war, for the Congress of the United States to reach the same resolve to abolish slavery. The13th Amendment to the Constitution was passed December 6, 1865.
Many things can bring discouragement- a difficult task, unrealistic expectations, or circumstances that bring disappointment. All these can seem like battering rams trying to “pound holes in our walls”. There is always the temptation to give up, or not try at all.
When someone provides encouragement, it can make a difference. Think of the positive impact each person can have on the life of another- your husband, your wife, a teenager, child, single parent, employee, customer, student, pastor, co-worker, or group. Take inventory of those who have spoken into your life for the good. Take steps to inspire others.
In our community, several entities would also appreciate your encouragement as well; either volunteering or financial contributions. Looking around, you would find the CareNet Crisis Pregnancy Center, the Salvation Army, the PATH Shelter, the State Theatre for the Arts, the “Back to School” program of Zion Ministries, the Northern California Burn Foundation, Corning Christian Assistance, the Boy Scouts, the Campfire Girls, the Guardian Angels, and your church- to name just a few.
Within our federal, state, county, and city governments, many elected and unelected individuals have a sincere desire to make the best decisions in matters that affect our lives and future. As we offer public suggestions, commentary and creative criticism, as to policy, and as to how these individuals should lead, let us also remember to send them words of encouragement and pray for them. This may seem a very odd notion to some. Just do it. What’s the best that can happen? Mixed with faith, the power of encouragement can do wonders.
A film “Amazing Grace-The William Wilberforce Story” was released nation-wide on Feb. 23. James Dobson’s Focus on the Family ministry is also releasing a radio -theatre drama by the same title. Check out www.family.org and info@kvip.org for regional broadcast schedules.
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