St Patrick of Ireland - How much do you know of him?

Patron Saint of Ireland born in the 5th Century in South Wales. Brought Christianity to Ireland.

When he was 16 yrs.old he was kidnapped, taken to Ireland, used as a slave and put to work as a shepherd. His Christian upbringing helped him endure many hardships for the next 6 yrs, when he escaped to France, to a small island off the south coast, known as St. Honorat. He then went to a monastery in Auxerre in central France.
During his time away there, he had a calling to go back to Ireland to spread the gospel. His courage and faith so impressed even the Irish king, “Loganaire”, that he gave him protection.

St. Patrick was said to have used the shamrock to spread the gospel. Being a three-leafed symbol to represent the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost) Christianity was there before he arrived, but was not wide spread until then.

He introduced Latin as the church language in Ireland and in so doing, helped build an interest of the Classics. He also wrote, in Latin, 2 short works giving an account of his life, e.g. the “Confessio” an autobiography of his Christian life, and the “Epistola” an account of the treatment of the Irish Christian peoples by the British.

There is also another interesting story of St.Patrick. He was supposed to have taken all the snakes in Ireland and put them in a box and threw them into the sea. This being the reason there are no snakes in Ireland, and when the sea rages, it is because the snakes are rumbling about in their box and trying to get out.
St. Patrick’s day is celebrated on the 17th.March each year on the anniversary of his death.

Most American cities have their own St. Patrick's Day celebrations but it is a day of unity and joy the world over.

Author Unknown

THE MEANING OF THE CROSS - Passion Sunday (John 19:17-19)

“They took Jesus. He was bearing his own cross to the place called the “place of the skull” which in Hebrew is called Golgotha, and there they crucified him with two others, one on either side and Jesus was between them.” John 19:17-19.

As you may know because you have heard the story before, Jesus was crucified at Golgotha. The Roman means of execution was crucifixion. The Romans were professionals at crucifixions; they did them by thousands, and recorded the dirty details of their executions in their history books. No human rights like we have today. No watch dogs etc. On the other hand, if Jews were going to kill somebody, they would stone them and kill them. The Jews killed by stoning, but the Romans killed by crucifixion. Jesus was sentenced to die by the Roman courts and he was sentenced to die by crucifixion outside the city walls of Jerusalem. One more crucifixion wouldn’t bother the soldiers. It was all in a day’s work. Do you know of any execution chamber in your city, town or village? If your answer is yes, I would imagine it would be an uncomfortable place to visit.

Therefore, as happened at other Roman crucifixions, the Roman soldiers whipped Jesus. For those was have watched the latest film “THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST” know the gruesome moments Jesus faced before death. We know from history books that those crucified received thirty-nine lashes across their backs. If you can imagine a man’s back that has been whipped or lashed thirty nine times, it is not a pretty sight. Jesus was then given a long wooden log; about six feet long, the cross of execution was shaped like a letter “T.” After receiving the thirty-nine lashes, Jesus and other criminals would carry this heavy piece of wood through the streets of Jerusalem, narrow winding streets that were about twelve feet in width. It was about a ten-minute walk from the place where Jesus was sentenced to the Place of the Skull outside the city wall. It was a ten-minute walk if there were not crowds, but on that day, the crowds were crushing against one another as a badly whipped Jesus slowly carried that top piece of the cross to the place of his execution, the Place of the Skull.

Jesus finally came outside the city wall to that cliff; with the eye sockets carved into the mud walls and those eye sockets made the cliff look like a skull. The Roman soldiers stripped him naked and then placed the cross bar on the top of the upright, vertical beam. The soldiers lifted the body of Jesus onto the cross. The soldiers then took some ropes and tied Jesus around beneath the arms and tied his body to the cross so he wouldn’t fall. With long heavy ten-inch spikes, they nailed his wrists, not the palms of his hands as is in all medieval paintings, to the cross, so he also hung by his wrists. They also nailed his feet to the bottom of the cross. Jesus was hanging there in agony, having no clothes, stark naked.

Today, over two thousand years later, there is still a fascination with the cross. People still want to hear the story of the cross and still want to hear the absurdity that the cross is the throne of Christ and that Christ still rules from the cross. Why is it that after this long, we still want and need to hear the story of the cross? Are we fascinated with the cross because we are sadistic? Why are we drawn to Golgotha? (In my next presentation I will look at GOLGOTHA.)Why is there a pull to this place? Why do people speak about it after so many years? No story has been told for so many years than the story of the Cross. The more it is told the more the listeners want to hear.

The cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith so we think. We are drawn to the cross because we sense that the cross is the key that unlocks the whole Christian faith. The cross is the key that unlocks the mystery of God. The cross is the key that unlocks the mystery of our lives. We sense that in the cross. It is like a code that narrates Christianity. It is the one strongest and most central symbol of the Christian faith, symbolizing both the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The cross symbolizes the love of God through pain and suffering; the cross also triumphantly symbolizes the resurrection to new life forever. Good Friday and Easter. The tragedy and the triumph. The humanity and the divinity. Both eternal messages are in the cross.

The cross is the throne of Jesus Christ. How absurd but Christians have believed that for centuries. Christ is king and the Gospel of John tells us that when he was crucified, he was glorified. That is the message of the cross. That is what the cross says. It is only in the cross that we see the face of God’s love. Not in the sun. Not in the stars. Not in the atoms. It is only in the cross. The cross is that glorious window through which we see God’s great love, a love so great that God was willing to die for you, that God’s son was willing to lay down his life for you and me.

Credits
Cladwin Commentary on the Gospel of John
Henry Matthews Commentary on the Gospel according to St. John.

Prayer for The Local Gorvenment- Council meeting at the City of Rosenberg

We pray Thee, who alone art good and holy, to endow with heavenly knowledge, sincere zeal, and sanctity of life, We pray for our Mayor , all council men, and all those who are appointed to exercise amongst us the functions of our City government.

We pray Thee O God of might, for wisdom, for justice! Through whom authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment decreed, assist with Thy Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude the Mayor of this city, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness, and be useful to Thy people over whom he presides; by encouraging due respect for virtue and good governance; by a faithful execution of the laws in justice and mercy; and by restraining vice and immorality. Let the light of Thy divine wisdom direct the deliberations of this council, and shine forth in all the proceedings and laws framed for our rule and government, so that they may tend to the preservation of peace, the promotion of Our City’s happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety, and useful knowledge; and may perpetuate to us the blessing of equal liberty.

We pray for the members of this assembly, for all judges, magistrates, for Policeman and woman, and other officers who are appointed to guard our political wellbeing, that they may be enabled, by Thy powerful protection, to discharge the duties of their respective stations with honesty and ability.

O God, we ask Thee, to watch over those exposed to the horrors of war and to the spiritual dangers of a soldier's, a sailor's, or an airman's life. Give them such a strong faith that no human respect may ever lead them to deny it, or fear to practice it.

We recommend likewise, to Thy unbounded mercy, all our brethren and fellow citizens throughout the United States, that they may be blessed in the knowledge, Knowledge of how to govern in their respective offices.

We pray to you Merciful God, Our Shield, Our Protector, Our Maker Now and Forever- Amen

What is Dedication of Children? 1 Samuel 1:21ff. Message at SIFA International Church Houston

Dedicating a child acknowledges God's sovereignty not only over the child, but also Mom and Dad. Parents present their child before God and His people asking for grace and wisdom in carrying out their responsibilities. Parents also come praying that their child might one day trust Jesus Christ as Savior for the forgiveness of sin.

Before the actual ceremony, it is crucial that pastors counsel parents about the meaning of dedication. The best passage for discussion is Deuteronomy 6:4-7. First, it commands parents to love God; if they truly wish for their child to one day love and follow God, their lives must be an example. This is a good time to query parents about their own personal relationship with Christ.

Second, Deuteronomy makes clear that the duty of teaching children belongs to parents; Sunday schools can provide weekly instruction, but parents must seize the teachable moments that arise throughout life. Explain the value of prayer (for example, repetitious prayers like "Now I lay me down to sleep . . .") at meal times and before bed. Urge them to read aloud Bible stories for devotions. Give them practical ideas they can implement into their daily family routines.

Sometimes it is custom for parents to choose godparent(s). Often viewed simply as an honorary title, its value however can be greatly enhanced by defining how this role will be carried out. Many godparents assume responsibility to provide cards and gifts of a Christian nature for the child on birthdays and holidays. Some periodically ask the parents how they are doing in training their child (Proverbs 22:6). Still others have arranged that in the event of the parents' unexpected death, the godparents will take the child into their home (This of course requires legal documentation).

Finally let me observe that pastors dont go looking for parents to ask them bring their children for dedication, on the contrary, parents should seek the opportunity of presenting their children to the pastor for dedication.

The doors of the church should be open to let parent bring them to dedication service, talking of opening the doors of the church, now the Alters are open for parents to bring in themselves and their kids...

Ash Wednedsay: "And When You Pray" -Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

Jesus taught his disciples, saying: And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Matthew 6:5-6)

Prayer -- just the word elicits a wide variety of responses and feelings.

Everything from the most pious of responses to the most piteous of excuses, the concept and practice of prayer has evoked much writing and discussion in Christian circles down through the ages. Most of us would profess fairly easily that we believe prayer is important. Most of us would have to confess, perhaps not so easily, that we do not pray as we should.

As we begin our Lenten pilgrimage this day, let us begin with prayer. And I mean that both literally and figuratively. Let us begin where Jesus always seemed to begin every venture and effort, with prayer. It is one of the Lenten disciplines espoused by the religious for years. But it is more than just a discipline. So let us take some time, as we begin our Lent, to explore what prayer is, or is not.

Part of the problem, I suspect, about our failure to pray more frequently is our feeling uncomfortable in prayer. We don't seem to know "how to" pray. And because we get all hung up in the "how to" part, feeling inadequate for the task, embarrassed by the act, unable to address God as we feel we should, many of us simply don't. We don't pray.

Divine Conspiracy - A Transformational Path For Christians - Book Commentary -

The authors are Jan Johnson, Keith Matthews and Dallas Willard. Keith teaches a "Spirituality and Ministry" course at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena; CA.Jan Johnson and Keith Matthews have partnered with Dallas Willard in ministry for several years. Keith is a member of the pastoral staff at Cedar Ridge Community Church. Jan is a prolific author of many books, articles, Bible studies and education curricula. She also speaks at over 20 conferences per year.

The Diving Conspiracy mapped out a transformational path for Christians to experience and know God as part of the here and now rather than as only part of the hereafter. The authors expands the discussion, focusing on and clarifying the key issues and encouraging a fuller understanding of Christian discipleship. As the authors argues their case, they want the readers to find overviews and summaries of each chapter, scripture meditations to enhance their understanding of the text, and study questions to facilitate stimulating discussion and reflection.

The authors of Divine Conspiracy are focusing on presenting to the reader the understanding, and to gain a fresh hearing for Jesus, especially for those who believe they already understand him” (introduction, p.xiii). It challenges long-established ways of thinking about Jesus’ ministry, message, and call to discipleship. As the reader takes the time and make the effort to look afresh at Jesus and what he taught, the reader may have a new sense of wonder, excitement, joy—and even regret—for not having heard the Gospel the way he preached it. And by showing the reader how current culture connects to the enduring message of Jesus, The authors of Divine Conspiracy treats their readers to a rare experience of seeing into the heart and life of God.

The authors ask the question; what is the ultimate goal of reading the book? The point the authors asserts in this book as they present their case is that the reader will join God in a divine conspiracy to advance the invisible kingdom of God here on earth. Readers join the conspiracy by choosing to be an apprentice to Jesus, who stands at the center of everything—having died on a cross “to undermine the structures of evil" (The Divine Conspiracy, p.188). God made himself known by approaching human beings and involving himself in our lives, so now every believer can join God in his efforts.

The Divine Conspiracy is not a fast-food, quick read. To understand its breadth and depth, this companion study guide was produced to enhance the readers experience of a powerful and transforming book—so that God’s kingdom may be advanced by an empowered army of renewed disciples of Jesus Christ. This reviewer hope that working through this study guide will enrich the relationship with God and serve as a practical tool that helps the reader become a transformed apprentice of Jesus.

May you experience the reality of his kingdom in new and wondrous dimensions. This has been and is my reading for this year’s - 2010 Easter week. This reviewer recommends this book to all Christians who have hunger for the word of God. The reviewer also recommends the book to Sunday school teachers, bible students, bibe study moderators, pastors of big and small growing congregations, and all students of the word of God.

“The Divine Opportunity" Luke 3:7-18 –

Opportunity comes with so many different faces that we often don't recognize it. That's probably why we sometimes miss its call. A previous generation said that opportunity comes dressed in overalls. And they were largely right, for nothing succeeds like hard work. Our generation thinks that opportunity comes with a college diploma. It may, but there's no guarantee.

The divine opportunity comes in what is, to our human eyes, the most unlikely garb of all. It's no wonder we don't recognize it; or that,recognizing it, we resist it. This Advent season is an especially good time to experience the divine opportunity. Any time is God's season; but because you and I find certain settings and circumstances especially hospitable to religious experience, Advent and Lent are particularly attractive.

The first Advent preacher, John the Baptizer, offered opportunity in a compelling, almost ferocious way. When you read his words, you don't think he's offering opportunity; I expect that if we had heard him in person, we would have been even more doubtful. William Barclay said that John's message "was not good news; it was news of terror" (The Gospel of Luke,Westminster John Knox Press, p. 28). I
understand what Professor Barclay was saying, but I see it differently. It seems to me that good news must sometimes come dressed in rough clothing.

That was surely the nature of John's approach. When we read the brief gospel summaries of his messages, we wonder why people went to so much trouble to hear him. Were they masochists courting abuse, or did they perhaps hope to hear him thunder against the sins of their neighbors? One way or another, the crowds flocked to him. And largely, I think, because they felt, in the integrity of his message, an opportunity which they had sought for a long time. His was a message of judgment; but in the judgmentwas opportunity. And opportunity was wrapped up in the word repent.

WHEN GOOD NEWS IS SO GOOD -Luke 4:14-21

The story is told of a Franciscan monk in Australia assigned to be theguide and "gofer" to Mother Teresa when she visited New South Wales.Thrilled and excited at the prospect of being so close to this greatwoman, he dreamed of how much he would learn from her and what they wouldtalk about. But during her visit, he became frustrated. Although he wasconstantly near her, the friar never had the opportunity to say one wordto Mother Teresa.

There were always other people for her to meet.Finally, her tour was over, and she was due to fly to New Guinea. Indesperation, the Franciscan friar spoke to Mother Teresa: If I pay my ownfare to New Guinea, can I sit next to you on the plane so I can talk toyou and learn from you? Mother Teresa looked at him. “You have enoughmoney to pay airfare to New Guinea?” she asked.Yes, he replied eagerly. “Then give that money to the poor,” she said.“You'll learn more from that than anything I can tell you.” Mother Teresaunderstood that Jesus’ ministry was to the poor and she made it hers aswell. She knew that they more than anyone else needed good news.On a Saturday morning, in Nazareth, the town gathered in the synagogue tolisten to Jesus read and teach. It was no big surprise. He was well knownin the area; it was his hometown. He was raised there. They wanted tolearn from him. So when he read from the Isaiah scroll, “The Spirit of theLord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the good news to thepoor” everyone understood these words to be the words of Isaiah.

It is howthat prophet from long ago defined his ministry.When Jesus finished that reading he handed the scroll to the attendant andsat down. In that day you sat in the Moses Seat to teach to the people.Today preachers stand in a pulpit. So all eyes were on Jesus, waiting forhim to begin his teaching. What would he say about this great prophetIsaiah? Would he emphasis the bad news? Israel had sinned and would betaken into captivity by the Babylonians. Or would he emphasis the goodnews? One day God would restore his people and bring them back fromcaptivity.

It was Israel’s ancient history but it still spoke volumes.Now here’s the wonderful twist, the thing that catches everyone off guardthat Saturday morning in Nazareth. Jesus does neither. He doesn’temphasize the past. He focuses on the present. He doesn’t lift up Isaiahas the great role model; Jesus lifts up himself. This is the pertinentpoint. It’s what upsets everybody at the synagogue. It’s why everybody wasfurious with him and drove him out of town. They were going to kill him.He dared to say that these great words of Isaiah were really abouthimself. “Today,” he said, “this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Study the ministries of Isaiah and Jesus. Why are their ministries so closely tied and why does Jesus describe himself as fulfilling Isaiah’s ministry?

Mountin Top Experince -Luke 9:28-36

Many of us have had them, those times when we felt like we were on top of the world, really happy, confident that we knew all the answers, could solve any problem that came up. Or we felt that we were really close to God, really in tune with God’s plan for us. In those moments we were excited and alive, and everything seemed new.

The moment might have come at some exciting event in your life: graduation, baptism, your first kiss, your first day on your first job, your wedding, the birth of a child, even catching your very first fish. It might have been something really spiritual, like a week at church camp or a church retreat. Or it might have been something of a smaller, quieter nature, like a very intimate conversation with your father or mother when you felt that they honestly understood what you were saying and why you felt the way you did.

We call these "mountaintop experiences," and oh how we hate to come down off that mountain! We want to hang on to that moment for as long as we can. "Let’s just stay right here and let the rest of the world go by for a while." But to freeze that one moment in time shuts off the possibility of the next moment.

In the Gospel reading for today we hear the writer of Matthew give his version of the event which we call "The Transfiguration of Jesus." Mark and Luke also contain an account of this strange occurrence, with some minor variations in the telling. It’s one of those rare moments we were just talking about, one of those mountaintop experiences of life, which somehow defy adequate description and challenge us to stretch our concept of reality to the point that we usually wind up asking the question, "Did this really happen?" Events such as the Transfiguration somehow connect us with the mystery of creation and eternity.

For Jesus it was a time of confirmation and affirmation of his ministry. For Peter, James, and John it was a brief glimpse of the transcendent, a peek at the reality that lies just beyond everyday life.

But notice that Jesus quickly led the disciples back down off that mountaintop – in spite of Peter’s desire to pitch a tent and camp there for a long while. Jesus led them back into the daily routine of teaching and preaching and caring for the broken and hurting people of the world they lived in, back to the reality of life in the valley...

Hospital Pulpit - Ministry to Maria

Maria is only 23 when she lost her husband in a random get away shooting. She has two young children whom she has to single handedly take care of. Maria processes her grieve and emotions with the chaplain at the hospital’s surgery waiting area where she and her younger sister were waiting. She is very distraught at this time; she wondered aloud how she is going to live the rest of her life without her husband.

Maria also worries about her children who at this time are 2 and 4 years. Chaplain learnt that Maria’s husband had gone out drinking with friends and Maria and her sister were to accompany them but they didn’t. The two friends to Maria’s husband also perished in the shooting.

Even in the midst of grieve she is thankful that she did not accompany her husband to what turned out to be a deadly outing. She says that she is lucky to be alive to take care of her children.

Mother’s death: A few months after the death of Maria’s husband, her mother was admitted in hospital with live threatening illness. Constantly Maria visited her and prayed that she makes it to see her children grow up to becoming adults. Her long stay in hospital minimizes hope for Maria.

Chaplain’s ministry was now more focused to Maria and her other siblings who were so fearful that their mother might die. Day in day out, the chaplain met with Maria and her siblings for moral and spiritual support. During family contact the chaplain learnt that Maria’s father left the family and married another woman who lives with him out in another town. Maria’s only uncle (brother to her mother) was incarcerated for assaulting a police office during a domestic dispute with his wife. While Maria’s mother’s health was deteriorating everyday, at 23 being the eldest in the family, Maria had the burden of decision making concerning health care plan for her mother, that of her children and her siblings.

Her emotions ranged from denial, grieve, acceptance among others.

After almost a month in the hospital, Maria’s mother became critically ill and moved to Intensive Care Unit. Her chance to survive was diminishing every moment. She is battling with cancer that has metastasized in her who body shutting down her major organs.

Family conference and ethics committee: A family conference was called to address Maria’s mother plan of care. Maria and her sister (about 20 years) were present. They had invited a male friend to accompany them in this meeting.

It was clear from the attending doctor that treatment options have been exulted, and the family should be aware of this and start preparing incase the patient expires.

The news of lack of treatment option was not music in Maria and her sister’s hears. Still grieving over the death of her husband, the thought of losing her mother was at this time unfathomable.

A few days after the family ethics meeting, the family was called in the hospital. Maria’s mother blood pressure was going dropping so quickly.

Maria was the first to arrive in the hospital with her two children and a male friend. At bedside the atmosphere was very somber, grieve filed the room as Maria say final goodbyes to her mother.

Moments later her sister arrives with a few friends. Several hours passed by and the reality of the loved one dying became a reality. Denial was replaced with acceptance. Maria started to focus of death as healing, observing that her mother does not deserve to suffer anymore.

The patient died two days after the family conference.

Maria becomes pregnant: About a year after the death of her mother, Maria was admitted in postpartum unit of the hospital. She is three months pregnant and has panics attacks which leave her shaken and afraid that she may lose her baby.

Orders for physic consult were ordered for Maria who was at this time was much shaken. She is referred to a physic hospital, but she feels that she is not a candidate for physic follow-ups

At bedside in Maria’s hospital room are her grandmother and father (seemingly young than Maria) to the child she is expecting

Maria voices her concerns about carrying her pregnancy to team. She worries that if she does she might end up getting sick herself and might die, leaving her other two children without a parent.

Does she think of abortion? This is not something she has voiced out yet. Efforts to explore on what options she has were unfruitful.

It is evident that death has become a major constant worry in Maria’s life

The next time Maria comes to the hospital, she was visiting with her uncle. Her uncle is recovering from pneumonia. He is forty seven years old who has never been in hospital the whole of his life.

When her sister died (Maria’s Mother) he was in jail for assaulting a public servant after a domestic call from his ex-wife. He was not present to support the family during his sister’s death. He admitted that he was not even informed by the family that she has died. He also was there when Maria’s husband died. He observed that Maria’s husband was like a son to him

By now Maria is three weeks to delivery date. She was accompanied by her grandmother who is in her 80’s. A few minutes visit with Maria at the main exit of the hospital; she indicated that she has a big burden on her shoulders. She has bills to pay, look after her children and he siblings. She has now moved to the house that belonged to her mother, and she complains that there is a lot to keep up with. She says that her hair is turning grey at 24. She looked tired with her tummy showing.

Maria recalls her last visit to the hospital as a patient herself when she had come in with panic attacks and indicated that the recommendation for mental evaluation was not for her at the time.

She seems stable healthy and looking forward for the birth of her third baby.

A Promise to Keep: New Year's Resolution Clues- 2010

Since 2010 is right around the corner, I want to get a bit proactive in giving you some clues on how to make effective new year’s resolution. A New year’s resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or the reforming of a habit, a or lifestyle. While this change is geared to positive results the problem is that most good intentions get derailed within a few weeks. Do you know why most people don’t keep their New Years' resolutions? Because the resolutions are not attainable. The hardest part of a New Year's resolution is choosing one, not keeping it.

I have a friend of mine who every year resolves to loose weight but instead he gains weight. As many of you read this article, it is my belief that you are making plans to make New Year’s resolutions. Have you considered this year as the year you make good attainable and measurable resolution? What are the areas you want to focus on?Whether your goal is to lose or gain weight, exercise regularly or stop smoking, become a good dad or mom, attend church more regularly, work hard or do something you have dreamed about for many years, make sure that your resolutions are attainable. If in the previous years you have made resolutions that you never accomplished, you may need to try something different.You may need to write them down and prioritize them according to agency. If your resolution is to loss weight, are you watching your diet or you are only focusing on exercises? Are you focusing on going to the GMY every day of the week? This may not be attainable. If you set the bar too high, you’re doomed from the start.

The only problem I found with my friend who wanted to lose weight was that he had other resolutions he had made. I encourage that you make at least one that is more pressing and concentrate on it.As said earlier in this article, the most difficult part of new year’s resolution is making one. A friend of mine told me that his new year’s resolution is “not to make any resolution for the year 2010”. Is this attainable? Yes, if he is not going to set goals for year 2010. I

later learnt that my friend had made many goals in the years past, and none of his goals has come to fruition.I would encourage my readers not to make resolutions if they think they’re not going to keep them, because what that does is; it sets you up for failure in the future. A few years ago I made a resolution to know God and follow him closely, and uh, I thought this would shape the rest of my resolutions I may want to make and attain.From a pastoral note, I want to encourage you as you make your resolutions for the year 2010 with the words of Apostle Paul:The word of God is always helping the renewed mind, possibly engaging in a battle with the desire to pass positive attainable New Year’s Resolution. Therefore, as we consider setting resolutions to improve our lives and the lives of those we love, for this coming year 2010, let us consider our walk with Christ as something that can help us in our struggle to make the best out of our resolutions.

Apostle Paul honestly admitted that he was struggling in certain areas, just like some of us today. Paul says, “I know the law but…can’t keep it…sin…keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I…need help…I decide to do good, but…My decisions…don’t result in actions. Something…gets the better of me every time” (Rom 7:17-20)”

Praise God for Paul from the rest of us who mistakenly think that once they are Christians there would be no more struggles! Then he goes on to say, “Consider yourself dead to sin” (Rom 6:11); “Just as Christ was raised from the dead…we also should walk in newness of life” (Rom 6:4). Paul didn’t quit focusing on attaining his life’s goals. I would ask genuine Christians why should we quite our goals in the second week of the year? In setting your resolutions, have you considered God as you helper?

Instead of struggling to change what cannot be changed, let God’s transforming power sweep through our lives, wash our hearts and renew our spirits. We must simply accept that the coming year 2010 shall be a year of accomplishments if we invite God to be our partner in attaining the goals we set.

True Worship,Knowing God:Sifa International Fellowship

The Apostle Paul described true worship perfectly in Romans 12:1-2 -RSV “I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable, or well pleasing and perfect.”

This passage contains all the elements of true worship: There is the motivation to worship,
God’s mercies are everything He has given us that we don’t deserve, eternal love, eternal grace,the Holy Spirit, everlasting peace, eternal joy, saving faith, comfort, strength, wisdom, hope, patience, kindness, honor etc

The knowledge and understanding of these incredible gifts motivate us to pour forth praise and thanksgiving—in other words, worship.

Also in the passage is a description of the manner of our worship: present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice. Presenting our bodies means giving to God all of ourselves. all of our humanness—our hearts, minds, hands, thoughts, attitudes—are to be presented to God.

In other words, we are to give up control of these things and turn them over to Him just as a literal sacrifice was given totally to God on the altar, by the renewing of our minds. We renew our minds daily by cleansing them of the world’s “wisdom” and replacing it with true wisdom that comes from God.

We worship Him with our renewed and cleansed minds, not with our emotions. 1 Corith 2:16.

There is only one way to renew our minds; By the Word of God.

True worship is God-centered worship. People tend to get caught up in where they should worship, what music they should sing in worship, and how the worship looks to other people.
Worship can include;

1. Praying,
2. Reading God's Word with an open heart, This is highest form of praise and worship -obedience to Him and His Word
3. Singing,
4. Participating in communion,
5. Serving etc

To do this, we must know God; we cannot be ignorant of Him (Acts 17:23). Worship is to glorify and exalt God—to show our loyalty and admiration to our Father.

Therefore we need to seek spiritual growth to be able to worship him.

What is spiritual growth?
Spiritual growth is the process of becoming more and more like Jesus Christ.

When we place our faith in Jesus:
· The Holy Spirit begins the process of making us more like Him, conforming us to His image
Notice that what we need comes “through our knowledge of Him; 1 peter 1:3-8.
· Our knowledge of Him comes from the Word - given to us for our edification and growth.
· Galatians 5:19ff list the “acts of the flesh"
1. These are the things that identified our lives before we came to Christ for salvation
2. The acts of the flesh are the activities we are to confess, repent of, and with God’s help, overcome.

As we experience spiritual growth, fewer and fewer of the “acts of the flesh” will be evident in our lives.

The second list is the “fruit of the Spirit” (verses 22-23). Spiritual growth is identified by the fruit of the Spirit becoming increasingly evident in a believer’s life.

When the transformation of salvation takes place, spiritual growth begins. The Holy Spirit indwells us (Joh14:16-17). We are new creatures in Christ (2corithian 5:17). The old nature is replaced with a new one (Romans 6-7).

Spiritual growth is a life-long process that depends on our study and application of God's Word :
(2timothy 3:16-17) our walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5: 16-26)

As we seek spiritual growth, we should pray to God and ask for wisdom concerning the areas He desires us to grow in. We can ask God to increase our faith and knowledge of Him.
God desires for us to grow spiritually, and He has given us all we need to experience spiritual growth.

With the Holy Spirit’s help, we can overcome sin and steadily become more like our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Next Topic: How do I get a passion for Jesus?

Words to Calm and to Comfort- John14:1 - 14

Do not let your hearts be troubled." Jesus told his disciples as they sat at the table. "Believe in God, believe also in me."

Do not let your hearts be troubled. What could have been troubling the disciples that they should need to be comforted with these words, "do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe"?
Reading the events in John's Gospel, one sees three things that could certainly cause the heart to be troubled. 1. extravagant, undeserved love that does not observe the rules, love can trouble the heart. You see, most of us are used to getting what we deserve. Nothing more and nothing less. Most of us are used to being loved in small portions and often with strings attached. So no wonder too much love, the kind of love that is extravagant and gives up its pride willingly and readily can be too much to handle. It can cause the heart to be suspicious. To be anxious. To be troubled. It is at such times the words of Jesus, "Let not your heart be troubled. Believe" offer us a way to betrayal.

2. Betrayal from unexpected quarters can lead the heart to be troubled. The realization that we are not as courageous as we would wish to be can be trouble for the heart. Let's face it, there are extreme conditions and circumstances which can break our stubborn determination, shoot down our headstrong conviction and humble our zealous courage.

The disciples, ordinary men and women like you and me, sat at the table with Jesus and as the evening wore on they found themselves troubled three times over. Troubled by extravagant love that serves willingly. Troubled by betrayal from close quarters. Troubled by panic and denial under extreme conditions. It was an extraordinary meal. A meal that had begun like any other Passover meal but then it gradually became a meal to remember.

The first unusual trouble to the heart was when Jesus had taken a basin with water and a towel, and he got on his knees like a servant, a slave, and he had washed each of the disciples' feet and wiped them. One by one they had watched their Lord, teacher and master go around the table washing first the neighbor's feet then my feet. Jesus has chosen the lesser place at the table. He had chosen to be the servant among them.

It must have been rather disturbing. Not the foot-washing mind you. Foot-washing was standard procedure. Nothing extraordinary about foot-washing in that time, in that place and in that setting. The extraordinary thing was not the what, but the who. Jesus had turned an ordinary event, day to day, often an invisible event which nobody paid particular attention to, into something. extraordinary. Jesus was supposed to have his feet washed. That was the expected code of behavior. But here look! Jesus, the master, the leader, the teacher, the rabbi, the host himself had gotten on his knees and he was choosing the lesser place at the table. He was on his knees doing the work of a servant. Washing the feet of his disciples.

Imagine the disciples were bewildered, yes perhaps even unsettled, anxious and suspicious of this Lord who does not lord over them but instead he serves them, serves them with extravagant grace that chooses to leave the head of the table and instead attend to details usually entrusted to servants. This master is unlike other masters because he does not spend his time bidding the disciples do this, do that, until they are so bone-tired and stressed out from all the doing they cannot simply enjoy being. No, no, no this master is different. It is he himself who gets on his knees and attends to his disciples' tired feet, refreshes them with water in a basin and gently wipes each foot with a towel. So unexpected. So embarrassing. So extravagant. Can you see the disciples baffled, bewildered, glancing at each other anxiously wondering how on earth they should behave when such a surprise occurs. How does one believe in such circumstances? How does one react to God's undeserved extravagant kindness?

Unexpected, undeserved goodness can be so troubling! No wonder Jesus says to them: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." In other words, do not let your hearts be unsettled by God's goodness to you; do not let your hearts be suspicious when God unexpectedly and surprisingly showers you with unconditional love and mercy and undeserved surprises. Do not let your hearts be troubled but instead, believe in God and look to Jesus. See, Jesus models for us how to live with each other; how to willingly choose to extravagantly serve the other, not because we have to, but precisely because we don't have to, because we are not expected to.

Well, later that evening things go even more troubling for the disciples. You see, as they were eating Jesus announced that among them in that intimate circle, one among them would betray him. Shocking news. Betrayal! Not just betrayal but the traitor was not some faceless, nameless stranger in the crowd. The traitor was someone at the table. Someone whom Jesus had called by name saying "come follow me." Someone who had worked with Jesus for the blind to see, the lame to walk, the oppressed liberated. Someone whom Jesus had washed his feet. Someone so close and intimate to Jesus. Look! He dips a piece of bread in the same dish. The traitor is among us. Is it? Is it I? As each disciple looked to the other we see a movement in the circle; one of the disciples gets up; he leaves the table; without a word he goes into the dark night perhaps slamming the door behind him. What does it mean? Something is not right. Something has gone wrong. Some of the disciples do not comprehend. Some of the disciples think that, because Judas had the common purse, Jesus was telling him, "Buy what we need for the festival;" or, that he should give something to the poor." It is beyond comprehension that someone that was trusted could break that trust. The mood around the table must have changed. Things don't look good. There is a sense of something gone wrong and not quite sure what. The kind of feeling of dread one gets at the doctor's office waiting to re-take some test or other; not sure what it could be and why you need to retake it; something's wrong. There is a premonition that something's not quite right. Those are the circumstances under which Jesus tells his disciples. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." In other words, do not be intimidated when things go wrong. Do not let the premonition of things going wrong intimidate you. During such times, put your faith in God and trust Jesus who tells us that the commandment is simply this: love one another.

Later in the evening, more trouble. Simon Peter had publicly vowed his loyalty to Jesus; vowing that he would lay his life down for Jesus. Peter had declared that he was willing to follow Jesus no matter where the path might lead. Peter had taken the admirable route to conquer trouble with determination, passion and enthusiasm. Surely, we would say, the way to cut through troubling moments is to take a stand and take a public vow. Who does not admire determination in the face of tragedy? Always keep a stiff upper lip, the principal of our high school used to say. Well, Peter, guess what. There are situations which even sheer determination cannot conquer. Jesus turned to Peter and says, "Peter, Peter, Peter, in a few hours things will be so bad that you will deny me not once, not twice, but three times before the cock crows. The dawn breaks and the night ends. You see, Peter, there are situations which our sheer determination can not conquer. There are circumstances which our loyalty can not see us through. Our good intentions can be overrun by certain state of affairs. There are predicaments bigger than all the resources we've ever thought we had. It is under such circumstances that Jesus tells his disciples "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." In other words, do not be stirred up and thrown into confusion with panic. Do not let the powers that be terrify you. During such times, put your faith in God and trust Jesus who tells us that in God's house there are many dwelling places. Room enough for all!

O God, calm our easily troubled hearts in the knowledge that there is enough for even us in your Kingdom. Amen.

"Squeaky Wheels"Mark 10:46-52 - Len Sweet- G/blogger

Now that we're deep into fall, it's the time for an annual battle to begin. For those of us in cold climates the yearly ritual of feeding the wintering birds is underway. And with that tradition comes yet another annual event - the war against the squirrels. Why it matters so much to nature lovers that they feed only the feathered and never the furred creatures is somewhat of a mystery. But there have been thousands of dollars spent in the name of squirrel defense over the years. Anyone living in a rural, wooded area can testify to the plenitude of both fur-bearing and feathered free-loaders queuing up to the trough.

From personal experience I suspect that the squirrel wars may camouflage the ugly truth that what we are actually trying not to feed is the squirrel's universally hated naked-tailed cousin . . . the wood rat. A bird feeder alive with the twittering presence of juncos, nuthatches and chickadees is one thing. A feeding station squirmingly full of fat and sassy rats is quite another!

Have you seen any of those video-tapes (you can purchase them) that chronicle the tireless, sometimes hilarious, often balletic attempts of the wily squirrel to beat all the safety devices humans install to keep them away from the birdseed? Demonstrating tremendous problem-solving abilities as well as physical dexterity, hungry squirrels have figured out how to climb around baffles, ride whirlygigs, leap unbelievable distances, and hang from their toenails in order to reach and pillage the beckoning bird feeder.

[At this point you may want to show-off some squirrel proof feeders that either you have in your yard, or that your people have devised for their yards. You can show pictures of these and get their inventors to tell the story of how they created them, or just show off a couple. One of the best I've seen was created by Paul Hammer, senior pastor at Mount Washington Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, and installed off his deck. It used multiple pulleys and was threaded through at least three trees.]

Our own squirrel-proof feeder took our resident fox squirrels about fifteen minutes to figure out. Because the feeding tray has a weighted cover that closes over the seeds if too heavy a creature sits on it, the squirrels simply attack from above. They shimmy out to the end of the branch, hang upside down from their back feet, stretch their bodies down just as far as they can, reach out with their front paws, and delicately scoop the seed out with their nimble fingers. Only very occasionally do they slip off, and then it's probably because they are so weighted down with their full tummies that they can't hold up their own weight anymore.

The squirrels have found that their persistence eventually pays off. If they keep working at it, keep trying new ways to beat it, keep their minds and their muscles focused on the prize they will surely find a way.

In this week's gospel text blind Bartimaeus is a bit like one of those pesky squirrels. Hearing that Jesus of Nazareth is coming his way this blind beggar begins hollering out into the dark that surrounds him, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me" (verses 47-48). But the crowd surrounding Jesus tries to shush up Bartimaeus. Jesus offers spiritual sustenance to all who hear him

PART FIVE: Glorification of Jesus on The Cross- John 17: 1-6, 24- 26

Sermon subject: It was through death of Jesus we find our Victory over sin.
Sermon Objective. That my listeners should realize that it was by the death of Jesus we have been called sons of God

Introduction

For Jesus life had a climax, and that was on the cross. As we will see the cross was his glory and that of eternity. Notice that Jesus says that the hour had come for the son of man to be glorified. What did he mean by this? This is our aim, to try and look at what this mean...

Many times we see in the Gospel Jesus saying that the hour has not come, cf 2:4 when Mary spoke to him at the wedding at Cana, evidently suggesting that he should intervene in the tense social situation by Manifesting his power, he informed her that his time had not come yet

The cross was the glory of Jesus because he was never more majestic than in his death. The cross was his glory because its magnet drew men to him in a way that even his life had never done, and it is so even to date.

Explanation

Glory- The son glorified the Father by revealing in this act the sovereignty of God over evil, the compassion of God for men, and the finality of redemption for the believers. Further the cross was the glory of Jesus because was the completion of his work. In the first chapter of this Gospel we read that “In him was life, and that life was the light of men” (1:4) “the son of man must be lifted that those who belief in him may have eternal life” 3:15-16. What does it men to have eternal Life? As seen in the previous sermon, it is to know the only true God who is the truth.

In his prayer he said that he has accomplished the work. This was a Jesus talking to the father, and he further says that the time as come. Note that he is now in agreement that time has come for his glory, a thing that he kept on reputing now and again. For him to have stopped short of the cross would have been to leave his task uncompleted. This is because he had come to the world to tell men about the love of God and to show it to them.Cf John 3:16. In Jesus we can say that he showed men the true nature and the true character of God; and the humblest Christian can take his unutterable name upon his lips.

The hour has now arrived in which the work of Christ must be completed by the voluntary sacrifice of his life for the salvation of the world and by his consequent glorification. Time that was not yet come now is at hand. He has hand to his disciple teaching concerning his relation to the Father, concerning his death and resurrection. He prayed for them confidently that in all this they may be kept by the Father’s (God) power.Nowel Davy in his book, the Fourth Gospel-states that,” the whole truth is theirs, and its meaning will also be theirs I n a little while by the power of the Holy Spirit which is to be given to them”

In the whole of this passage and chapter in general, there is a ringing confidence about the future in the voice of Jesus. He was with these men, the men God had given him, and he thanked god for them, and he never doubted that they would carry on the work he had given them to do.

Illustration

There is a famous story told in African of a man who was send by a chief to deliver massage to his subject. While on his way this massager had a misfortune which led to his death. But before he died, he could speak and in this way he was able to tell the massage to those who came to his aid.

In his very words as the story goes, in conclusion of his message he said, “tell those who have ears to hear for I have done my part” For sure in the same way Jesus had played his part in passing to men what the Father had sent him with, now it was upon those who had head him to on pass to others. And this was the main task of his disciples.

Application

First, Jesus said that he had given his disciple the glory which his father had given him. As we put our faith trust and belief in him, we must understand what his glory was. Without which that our being Christians will be threatened. I would want us to conclude by seeing that the cross was his glory. Jesus did not speak of being crucified, he spoke of being glorified. Therefore the first foremost Christian’s glory is the cross that he must bear. It is an honor to suffer for Christ. We should never think of our cross as our penalty. It is our glory for we are countered as one with the savoir. So when it is hard to be a Christian, we must regard it as our glory given to us by God.

Jesus’ glory lay in the fact that, from his life men recognized his special relationship with God. They saw that no one could live as he did unless he was uniquely near to God. As with Christ, it is our glory when men see in us the reflection of God.

Conclusion

Jesus said that it was his will that his disciples should see his glory in the heavenly places. It is the Christian’s conviction that he wick share all the experience of Christ. If ha to share Christ cross, he will also share his glory. And this is true cf 2tim 2:11f.

Finally it is good to note that Jesus was to go straight to the betrayal, the trial and the cross after praying. He was not to speak again to his disciples. It was a wonderful and a precious thing to remember that before their terribled hours his last words were not of despair but of glory. For he had accomplished his mission.

From Chaplain to Patient: Personal Story

It was a day like any other. I reported to work as usual. I was scheduled to attend a Seminar at MD Anderson Cancer Center at the medical center with my peers. Little did I know that, I would end up in the ER as a patient.

I was aware that I was not doing very well with my health for the last one-month, but one thing I was sure of is that it was nothing serious. I had taken some de-wormers because simply because I thought I had some worms, which made me feel so uncomfortable. I could not eat much as I am used to, most of the time I had no appetite for food, and I felt same craps in the stomach.

I made the decision to see my doctor, I called his office to let him know that I am unwell and I needed his appointment. However the nurse who answered the phone seemed to share the some thought with me that this sounds an emergency and I need to go down at ER and get checked. The fortunate thing at this moment was that the ER was only about 4 minutes walk from the place I was attending a seminar.

From Chaplain to patient

At this time I thought my visit to the ER was a quick one and soon or latter I would be asked to go home after the check up. I had a few patients I had planned to visit this afternoon. To my surprise I was admitted to the ER as a patient. I remember I had not taken my lunch, I thought that I would be back soon to eat.

A male nurse who first attended me by giving me the gown also spread the bed for me and he said “after you put on this (giving the gown), make yourself comfortable on this bed” I thought he was not serious since I had explained that I did not feel that sick. But in the course of the admission process, I realized that for sure I am becoming a patient in the hospital, something I had not anticipated.

The second person to attend me was a laboratory technician who came in and said he needed to draw blood out of me for test. I was moved from the room where I was and put in a different room in the same unit. This time I was more concerned about what these medics are up to. I was even more surprised that he drew 8 small bottles of blood from me. I became more nervous for I did not understand how he could get all that blood for a test in the lab.

Doctors visit

A doctor familiar to me come in and introduced himself, and said that he his filling in for my doctor. He did several things with my stomach including using his own fingers to press hard below the diaphragm. Each time he asks, “Does it hurt there?” There wasn’t much pain but I needed doctors’ attention to be able to understand what has been happening the last one month. He finally said he is going to check if I had appendicitis.

Cats Scan

The next place I found myself was the Catscan unit where I had to go several stages to complete the examination. I was scared to death since I could not remember having seen a doctor the whole of my life. I knew that if this was the problem I had, than it is not uneasy one since I could remember my own sister who had lots of struggle with the same problem. However, in my mind I could say this is not it. But on the other hand I kept on thinking how serious it would be.

Interaction with care givers

In my practice as a chaplain, I have always liked the way the group in this unit works. On various occasion I have been to the Unit, and I have close relationship with same of the people working here. Several of them came in to see me and wished me well. I was more scared when all my peers came in turns to see me. This reminded me of patients I visit in other Units.

I did not want them see me as a very sick person; thus I would tell them that I do not feel very bad. It was for me when patient transport person came by and asked to take me to the Cats Scan Unit on level two. I requested him to let me walk rather than push me on the bed. My fear here was that people that I know would see me in the patients’ bed and wonder what is happening. This was the most difficult time for me as a patient considering that I have never been to hospital before.

My own worries and those of my family

I was worried that if something was wrong with my appendix, I would go for surgery, which brought me the thought of how I see people suffer in SICU after surgery. I could not stop thinking how painful it would be, and how I will face lots of emotional charges after the surgery.

All this time in the ER, I did not want my wife to know because I was not sure what the diagnosis would be. I was afraid that if she realizes that I am in hospital she would come over leaving the children alone. By this time our three girls were nothing but babies.

On the other hand I was afraid that I would get some sick off days which would interfere with my learning process and my chaplaincy experience. I did not like imagining my peers coming to see me and how they would empathize with me.

Teamwork appreciated

Over and over again I have heard patients say that they have been given all the care they may want to ask in the hospital. I felt the some when each member in the caregiving team came by my bed. There were several nurses who came at different times, the patient liaison, the doctor who made it clear that he was covering for my physician, all my peers, my coordinating Chaplains and my supervisor who was with me all the along. I could now understand how patients feel when they are visited.

Mission and evangelism- A guide to Church Planters and pastors

Term definition:
Mission is reaching out to the other person (people). This can be done in various ways depending on where and who is doing it.

Church and Mission work
It is the duty of the local church, organizations to develop a missionary life and spirit in the Local church.
Support of missionary “specials” by individuals and organization and the whole church.

How the local church should be involved:

Many protestant churches believe in the ‘priesthood’ of all believers – each member of the church has a role to play in missions and evangelism.

“All members of the body of Christ are called to be
Ministers. Everyone has a definite function that is
essential to the body as a whole” Rick 1992, 118.

Commission of Jesus to the Twelve in Mark 6:7f.

Proposals for local Church.
One to one – this involves each person by;
Visiting members
Calling them on phone
Spending time with new members of the church

Door to door. This may be done by a group of people or pairs
· This model is the one in Mark 6: 7

Church Revivals and Spiritual retreats.
· Youth Groups Spiritual Meetings
· Women revivals
· Men Revival/spiritual Camps

Commitment in Mission.

What does it take to commit oneself to Mission work?
· Commitment
· Time
· Devotion
· Money/Resources

Leader (ship):
Learned
Educated
Adviser
Devoted
Enabler
Resourceful

CARING - A tool for Pastoral Care: Real Case presentation.Revised

Ida (not her real name) had been in the hospital four days when her mother asked the hospital chaplain to visit. Ida is 4 years old, a daughter of a single parent. She had respiratory problems and was struggling to breathe. After spending sleepless, disorienting days and nights at her daughter’s bedside, Monica (name changed) needed someone to talk to.

During this visit, I learned family members, friends and co-workers had come to visit Monica and her daughter, and they were great. Monica told me she really wanted them around, but she lamented that they didn’t understand the clinical language that defined her new existence and that of her daughter. Monica said the doctors and nurses were polite, efficient and professional by all means, but focused on their jobs.

I’m writing this column to explain the role of a hospital chaplain. Many patients and families of loved ones in a hospital think of a hospital chaplain only as a priest who delivers Last Rites when a person is dying. In fact, many times I have visited with patients who decline the visit, saying they are not dying.

At one point, I was making morning rounds in a regular medical unit when one of the patients asked whether I knew something she didn’t. She thought her prognosis was very poor and I was coming to prepare her for the worst news.

Of course, if you are religiously observant, a chaplain can offer you Communion, light Shabbat candles, read scriptures, provide anointing, among other religious Rites. A chaplain is someone whose job is to help patients, families and hospital staff find their place both emotionally and spiritually.

But chaplains are not just for religious folks, they’re for everybody. Since all humans are spiritual beings, regardless of their belief system, chaplains are for them all. “A chaplain is for people of faith and those of none,” source unknown.

Most of you reading this article know very well that being in hospital can be very isolating, probably having been in a hospital yourself or having a loved one in hospital as a patient. It is the role of a chaplains to come in and pull the curtains back in that dark room and help patient remember there is more to their life than being a patient. The chaplain does not necessarily visit to talk to the patients, but also to listen and empathize with them. As a chaplain, I find myself many times simply sitting and listening to patients narrates their stories.

Monica was in the best hospital, as she later told me. She had been seen by professional doctors and nurses who were very caring, but she observed that they had no time to listen to her. The chaplain is a safe person to talk to, someone with no agenda except the wellbeing of the patient, and who has time to listen. Chaplains are resources for all things: religious, spiritual, emotional, social, etc. While doctors and other staff might be able to fill some of those needs, chaplains are professionals in this area.

Because many people don’t know about chaplaincy services, or hesitate to call on a chaplain even if one is available, the service is under-used. Some of my duties are to help patients with Medical Power of Attorney, Directives to Physician, bedside prayer, serve Holy Communion, be a liaison between the patient and local community or churches, and so much more. Most patients decline this free service, thinking it costs.

When I arrived in Ida’s room, the visit just what her mother needed. Monica later told me she needed someone wearing normal clothes (not scrubs and lab coats), who sat with her and asked about Ida, listened to her story, and said a little healing prayer for Ida.

I later learned Monica was not a practicing Christian, yet she needed a chaplain to provide for her emotional and spiritual needs. During our visit, Monica was in tears, and finally she was able to express emotions.

It is my advice that, if you find yourself in the hospital as a patient or with a loved one as a patient, like Monica and Ida, why not asks the nurse if the chaplain can drop in on you. A little human contact might do you good — no religious beliefs required.

Death of the Church- Famous quote from John Wesley- the founder of Methodism

“I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.”

“Christ died for you; therefore die to sin.”

John Wesley

Faith as in Believe: What is the difference between Faith and Believe?

In my last blog at the beginning of the month of August, under the topic priceless grace, I mentioned that faith is a journey that begins by hearing the word of God. In this article I want to examine how faith works in believe.

Faith shows us in advance what God will do about a given issue before He does it. It also shows us in advance what our part, and future activity of God. God not only shows us in advance what He is about to do, He shows us in advance what He wants us to do with Him in this given future activity. Therefore, this is faith.

I want to take the case of Noah as an example. God showed Noah in advance everything about the Flood and its outcome. He also showed him in beforehand what his part was in this future undertaking. He showed him that He wanted him to build an ark and what kind of wood to use. He also showed him how high, how long and how wide to build it. He showed Noah in advance about the animals and so on. Because Noah had faith he was able to understand and know the plans of God in advance. "By faith Noah being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house...” Hebrews 11:6.

Faith is information God gives us to walk out or act upon. There are so many stories in the bible of people of faith.Is Faith the same as Believe? Faith is a noun that tells us what we have. Believe, on the other hand, is a verb. Believe is what we do. Believe is acting upon our faith or our advance information. Please note the following statement extremely well. Believe is not just agreeing mentally with what God said in a scripture. Believe, in the Bible sense, is acting out what is contained in the "if" part of our advance faith information. To put it differently, Noah acted out his part (building the ark)

Paul tells us our faith is living and can go through many stages. It never stays permanently fixed after a single conversion experience no matter how genuine or sincere. Our faith can be shipwrecked (1 Timothy 1:19) The Bible tells us we must have faith in order to be saved (Hebrews 11:6). Yet is faith nothing more than believing and trusting? Searching the Scriptures, we see faith also involves assent to God's truth (1 Thessalonians 2:13), obedience to Him (Romans 1:5, 16:26), and it must be working in love (Galatians 5:6)

Part Four - Knowing the True Way- John 14: 5- 14

Sermon title: Knowing the true way in Jesus.

Sermon subject: Jesus reassures his Disciples

Sermon Objective: That listeners would understand and follow in the light of what Jesus
met by the True Way


Introduction.

There is no other part in the gospel I have observed more confusion with the disciples as chapter 14 of the gospel according to St. John. This is because the attention is turned to the problem of death and separation. The little company that had been so much together is so much threatened by the loss of its leader and the disruption of the fellowship. How are the disciples going to make it without Jesus?

Explanation

In the beginning of chapter 14 the disciple are troubled for what he had said to them. He however wanted them to set their hearts at ease. He urged them to maintain their trust in God and in him in spite of the threatening circumstances 14:1-2. Jesus did not elaborate to them about the way which he is going but he said “Where I am going you know the way.” He assumed that they know the way for he has been with them for a while now and many times he has talked about his Father in heaven.

We see Thomas being genuine and speaking his mind when he said that they do not know the way. He is talking on his own behalf and that of others. I like him for his honesty, pessimism, and uninhibited thoughts. As many Christians would do today he did not suppress his feelings but he voiced his despair. In many ways he acted as peter to questions. cf 13:6 36-37. Thomas was not ready to accept a state of permanent bewilderment. His question reveals a man who is confused in life and felt that its riddle was insolvable.

Jesus’ reply seems to put them in more confused state. He claims to but three things at the same time” I am the way the truth and the life.” Compare what God said to Moses in Deut.5:32-33. “You shall walk in the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you.” What did he mean? He was echoing Isaiah 30 21. He meant to tell them that he was what they didn’t know. He was the truth. Read Ps 86:11, and that he was the life. The writer of Proverbs said: The commandment is a lamp and the teaching light and the reproofs of disciple the way of life.

Thus there is one way of putting all this together. He said that no one comes to the Father except through him. He alone is the way to God. In him alone we see what God is like, and he alone can lead men into God’s presence without fear without shame. “Let not your hearts be troubled” John 14

Illustration

I want to illustrate this by identifying with the disciples and maybe share their feelings with you. One morning I was driving in downtown Houston (large city). I could not find my way out of the city thus; I had to ask for direction. The person I asked was very familiar with downtown unlike me. What he said was something like this, “Take the first to the right, and the second to the left. Cross the square, go past the Park and the road is the fourth on the right” I felt even more lost than before I asked. It were better if he said “come I will show you”

Have you been in a place that you have to relay on people for direction? Are there times you feel so uncertain of what is ahead of you, and the options you have are limited? The disciples of Jesus were in worse situation than this. As discussed earlier, they were confused of what will happen now that the leader will be gone.

Application

Jesus is not willing to disband any that is his. He has the impression to us that he is expecting as to follow him as the way the truth and the life. He does not only advice us on the directions. He takes us by the hand and leads us; he strengthens us and guides us. Every day personally, every day for he is the way and the true one. He does not tell us about the way, he is the way. Isn’t this encouragement to us as it was to the disciples?

At the end of this chapter, Jesus is promising to send a helper to them, so that they continue with the work he has been doing. But by the power of the promised Holy Spirit we see more converts who came to belief.

We see growth today in the church. Jesus expects that the church should become an instrument by which he could manifest his salvation to his people. How can the church of today become this instrument? By knowing the true way which is Jesus without whom no one can find the life?

Priceless Grace - The Compassion and Grace of God has no bounds

It is my believe as a Christian/theologian that due to humanity's fallen and sinful nature, it is difficult if not impossible for an individual to attain the goal and purpose of life by himself or herself. In fact, help is available through Jesus Christ; God's grace is sufficient for people on the journey of faith. Faith is a journey that begins by hearing the word of God. The scriptures often emphasize the priority of divine grace; it is present even before a person accepts the call to be a believer, giving faith to those who otherwise would have no clue of how to start the journey of faith. Romans 3.23-25. Since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, they are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption, which is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as expiation by his blood, to be received by faith.
There are several scripture verses that describe God as the savior of lost and sinful people. People would be lost if God’s grace was there to work for. Grace is entirely God's initiative, given to people regardless of their attitude or merit, class or gender, height or weight. Furthermore, God's grace far overshadows the merit gained by good works; indeed, nothing can come of a person's good works or efforts that can pay the grace of God. John 3.16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life”. Grace is priceless as far as salvation is concerned. In the absence of divine grace people have no hope. God's grace is also described as sufficient, regardless of the person's burden or strength to bear it. 2 Timothy 2.13

A good example is the parable of the Prodigal Son the New Testament (Luke 15.11-32). The teaching of this story cautions against self-righteousness on the part of the believer as represented by the prodigal's brother, the theme of divine compassion for errant humanity shines throughout the parable.

Psalm of Victory - Psalms 68

This Psalm is a victory hymn in which the singer sings the power of God in action among his people. The singer invokes God to arise so that is enemies may have no place. By calling the presence of God this means judgment and destruction for them that are unrighteous, but for them that are godly it means his presence will bring joy and salvation. Eaton calls psalm 68 a processional hymn. (Pg 248). Broyles agrees with Eaton by saying that “the procession begins with the song of the ark, imploring God to arise” (Broyles, 1999 page 282) It is evident that as the singer calls the presence of God; the hymn marks the sense of God’s nearness.

The community is called to sing, for God has already appeared as we read in verse 4 from the clouds. From these verses 3&4 it is clear that the rider of the clouds does so in his cherubim- chariot. Thus as a call is made- the hymn moves to describe how God’s name is known to all people including the powerless and the vulnerable. He is father to the fatherless and mother to the motherless. He is also concerned with the homeless, the imprisoned. “The arrogant and cruel he treats as rebels, to be expelled to a fierce desert” (Eaton, 2003 pg 249).

Many scholars have suggested that this hymn was a processional hymn symbolizing the match through the wilderness and final triumphant entry in to the promised land. The second part of this psalm speaks of God of Sinai who goes forth beyond his people. The author has a picture of God leading the Israelites to the promised land. His presence was symbolized by the Ark of the covenant. As the psalm presents this picture it brings out the significance of God’s present work in the festival of which this hymn was thought to originate. In this second part it seems that the Song charges the tempo, and probably the rhythm, notice the Selah at verse 7 after which the whole description charges. This might have been prayed rather than sung. “the earth quaked and the heavens poured down rain” and as Eaton puts it, “this brings out the significance of God’s present work in the festival, savoir and renewer of earth’s life through the rains” (Eaton, 2003) page 250)

Movement

Remembrance of God’s goodness to his own people in their lives calls forth for a hymn to him as the protector of the needy and the oppressed. He manifests his presence at Mt Sinai. As a father to those who are fatherless and a mother to the motherless. This psalm points out that he prepared his people a land watered by the rains. Regardless of all the hostility and oppression, the singer is calling the others to join in and the Lord gives victory. “while the victory is celebrated the congregation responds from its daily experience drawing the message of victory into its own small portions a crucial liturgical intervention”. (Gerstenberger, 2001 page 40).

In the eyes of the poet, blessing God as a congregation was something of importance. As seen earlier this was a procession probably leading to a place of worship i.e. Temple, after which at the end of the procession the Poet/ singer calls the congregation to Bless

God. Seemingly the congregation does that and the poet invokes God to display his power. As a result, “His splendor is touching his people and his sanctuary, but also the creation” (Eaton, 2003 Page 250). Notice that the scene of God’s blessing is in his holy Temple, and not in the battle field. And the occasion is brought to and end with a Doxology, that to realize the ends of his victory, the singers summon the nations to give praise to him who manifests his power in heaven and his glory in Israel’s history. They needed to reminded the power of God and the strength come from God and the whole accession comes to a stand still.

Important words and Phrases.

Verse 2, as smoke is driven away, as wax melts before fire – that them that are wicked before God will easily be swept, for before the power of God they can not resist.

Verse 4 one who rides upon the clouds – Explains how he appears to people like he did to Moses on Mt Sinai. This was a Mythological poem among the Canaanites according to “He who rides upon the clouds” Deut 33:26. (Knox, 1955 page 355)

Verse 7 Marching through the wilderness. This speaks of God of Sinai who goes ahead of his people, one who provides to his own. At Mount Sinai he manifested himself in a mighty way in which he prepared his people land watered by rain in contrast to Egypt which was water by irrigation.

Verse 8, the earth quaked and the heaven pours rain – John Knox in his commentary on psalms compares this with the time when Judges were too corrupt and he attributes the time of the Psalmist with this time. Judges5:5. (Knox, 1955 page 356) the wildernesses as the Israelites were en rout to the Promised Land. The same God who did the miracles of victory to them is doing the same here. Note the Israelites referred to God as God of Isaac, Abraham, or God of our forefathers. The same is implied here.

Verses 15, the mountains of Bashan, may refer to God’s dwelling place, which is a modest hill- like Mount Zion. This is used probably to recognized the presence of the Lord.

Verse 17, Sinai into is Sanctuary – in the olden days it was believed that God live in the mountain. Sinai was God’s meeting Place with Moses. Now the singer believes that God is no longer that far from them for he is the one who is their victory, he is among them.

Verses 30, beast among the reed- that all creation is for thee, and God has helped them to be victories as he did with the Israelites under the bondage of the Egyptians in verse 29, kings will bring you gifts; no one is above to God. This indicates that the victory of God is above all creation and rulers.

Works cited

Weiser Arthur. 1959. The psalms, Philadelphia, Westminster Press,.

Eaton John. 2003. The Psalms, a historical and Spiritual Commentary with an introduction and New Testament Translation, London & New York, T & T Clark International,
Gerstenberger Ertard. Psalms, Part 2, and Lamentations, Michigan/Cambridge U.K

William B. 2001. Eerdmans Publishing Company Grand Rapids.

Knox John. 1955. The interpreters Bible, Psalms and Proverbs, Nashville, Abingdon Press New York,

Craig C. Broyles. 1999. New international Biblical Commentary- Psalms. Hendrickson Publishers, Paternoster press,

New International Version, Colorado springs, Colorado International Bible society.

Are you a Prodigal Christian? By Pastor Bob - Guest Blogger

Today I want to talk about a passage in the Bible that I am sure you have read and probably heard several sermons on this particular passage. I would like to discuss the arable of the "Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11 – 32. Now there are many more lessons in this wonderful parable such as jealousy but I wanted to focus on the father's reaction to have this sinner son come back home. Luke 5:20, (NASB)"So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, andran and embraced him and kissed him."
The Greek word that Jesus used here was kataphileô This word is not a simple hello kiss on the cheek this means to kiss someone that you love or to kiss some fervently which means intensity of spirit So after the son who took all his money and squandered it he came back with dirty clothes and probably smelling pretty ripe, the father kissed his sonwith the intensity of spirit. You see it did not make a difference to this young man's father that he sinned against him and wasted all that money.

The only thing that mattered to the father was that the son had come back.As the young man was confessing to his father, his father interrupted him and said bring me the best robe the Greek word for Best is the word prôtos which meant this robe was used for first importance or a chief would wear this robe. Then he put a ring on his finger gave him some shoes and he killed the fatted calf to celebrate. The Greek word here is euphrainô which means to celebrate, make glad, make merry and rejoice.

Let's think about this for a minute. How would you react if your child sinned against you took all the money you had saved for him and spent it on drugs, alcohol, gambling and prostitutes and then he showed up on your door step. Would you stop him from apologizing to plan and big reception and give him your finest clothes, shoes and jewelry? Well this short message is to remind you of how loving our Lord is. You see no matter how much we messed up in the past; God is thrilled when we come back to him.

Let us also look at the verse in Matthew 19:19, when Jesus said we are to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. If we are always beating ourselves up for past mistakes and in the places where we fall short, how can we love our neighbor? If God will accept us with all our faults, why can't we accept when we fall short? I see this happening all the time and very often when it comes to taken care of our body. I know so many people who try to eat right and exercise and then make a little mistake and they come completely apart. When we make a mistake, we need to learn from it, accept it, make amends and then move on. God forgives us so why can't we forgive ourselves. I hear too many people complain that they are not the best father or mother. I am not doing as well in business. I cheated on my diet. The list can go on and on. Stop focusing on what you did wrong but focus on what you do right! Everyday remind yourself of all the wonderful things you do.

My challenge to you is for the next 40 days, I want you to write down every good thing you do every day. Then read that every night before you go to bed. You will be amazed by how your life will change. Then you can go out and love your neighbor as yourself. If you are interested in living a full life powered by God, I encourage you