Friday, March 28, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Being Child Like
Do you remember the old children's tune "Following the Leader"? Made famous by Peter Pan. Take a moment to read the lyrics here:
This song emits an attitude that I think we ought to replicate when we are following our God. It's joyous and worry free. "We're following the leader wherever he may go." As a child of God, I desire to follow him wherever he may lead me. Did you know that in order for someone to lead you, they must go there before you? When we say "God is leading me to ___" do we realize that God is going there ahead of us? He's preparing the way. What a wonderful thought! God will never lead us somewhere truly dangerous. Sometimes he might take us real close to a ledge so we can experience the view, but we should rest in the knowledge that he is a good leader and will not lead us astray. Trust is the main idea here.
It is also sung "We won't be home till morning, because he told us so." This parallels the truth that Jesus will be returning at an appointed time and we will all go home. We can rest in the thought that eventually we will be lead back home. God has promised us this. This thrills me! A morning will come seeming just like any other, but it will in fact be the dawning of a new era! When my Saviour comes to lead me home! To a place he has prepared for me! A place he has gone to first!
We ought to be able to then go about our daily lives with a joyous song on our lips! "Tee dee, tee dum." If we truly trust in our Leader, we should fear not following his steps. It should offer us freedom from worry! It is only when we stop following and try to find our own way that we begin to stumble and become fearful. Sometimes we feel that we need to be the one in front, so we can see, because we'd rather trust our own eyes, than the leadership of our God.
To tell the truth, I like to be in front so I can see what's coming ahead. But when I do that, I am most worried and fearful. To see the obstacle way before it's time creates a stress that would otherwise be avoided if we only saw the obstacle when it was time to cross it. Especially because God will show us how to cross it, but only once we get there.
So, go ahead.... follow the Leader, and sing a happy song.......
Following the leader, the leader, the leader
We're following the leader wherever he may go
We won't be home till morning, till morning
We won't be home till morning
Because he told us so
Tee dum, tee dee
A teedle ee do tee day
We're out for fun
And this is the game we play:
Come on, join in
And sing your troubles away
With a teedle ee dum
A teedle do tee day
We're following the leader, the leader, the leader
We're following the leader wherever he may go
We won't be home till morning, till morning
We won't be home till morning
Because he told us so
Tee dum, tee dee
A teedle ee do tee day
We march along and
These are the words we say:
Tee dum, tee dee,
A teedle deelde deeay
Oh, a teedle ee dum
A teedle ee do tee day
Oh, a teedle ee dum
A teedle ee do tee day
This song emits an attitude that I think we ought to replicate when we are following our God. It's joyous and worry free. "We're following the leader wherever he may go." As a child of God, I desire to follow him wherever he may lead me. Did you know that in order for someone to lead you, they must go there before you? When we say "God is leading me to ___" do we realize that God is going there ahead of us? He's preparing the way. What a wonderful thought! God will never lead us somewhere truly dangerous. Sometimes he might take us real close to a ledge so we can experience the view, but we should rest in the knowledge that he is a good leader and will not lead us astray. Trust is the main idea here.
It is also sung "We won't be home till morning, because he told us so." This parallels the truth that Jesus will be returning at an appointed time and we will all go home. We can rest in the thought that eventually we will be lead back home. God has promised us this. This thrills me! A morning will come seeming just like any other, but it will in fact be the dawning of a new era! When my Saviour comes to lead me home! To a place he has prepared for me! A place he has gone to first!
We ought to be able to then go about our daily lives with a joyous song on our lips! "Tee dee, tee dum." If we truly trust in our Leader, we should fear not following his steps. It should offer us freedom from worry! It is only when we stop following and try to find our own way that we begin to stumble and become fearful. Sometimes we feel that we need to be the one in front, so we can see, because we'd rather trust our own eyes, than the leadership of our God.
To tell the truth, I like to be in front so I can see what's coming ahead. But when I do that, I am most worried and fearful. To see the obstacle way before it's time creates a stress that would otherwise be avoided if we only saw the obstacle when it was time to cross it. Especially because God will show us how to cross it, but only once we get there.
So, go ahead.... follow the Leader, and sing a happy song.......
Monday, March 17, 2008
Eliminate the negative...
Why is it that we are so eager and so ready to jump to negative conclusions? Seriously? I find myself doing this constantly. Anybody else?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Friday, February 22, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Movies, movies, and movies!!!
I've got that itch again.... you know, the one where I want to run away to some film town and get a job on a set and make friends with folks in the business. Next thing ya know, Spielberg and I are going over the script we wrote!
What's a girl to do!? I know I am capable of putting together a great film. I just am lacking in the "having a story" part. If any of you reading this, have story ideas, or know people who have story ideas, or know people who are creative writers who might be interested in developing an idea, please let me know!
I do have some ideas, but they are just undeveloped....
Oh, and Jesse, I still want to make a short film from your short story. We should work on that sometime.
What's a girl to do!? I know I am capable of putting together a great film. I just am lacking in the "having a story" part. If any of you reading this, have story ideas, or know people who have story ideas, or know people who are creative writers who might be interested in developing an idea, please let me know!
I do have some ideas, but they are just undeveloped....
Oh, and Jesse, I still want to make a short film from your short story. We should work on that sometime.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Friday, February 1, 2008
Trying something new...
This is my first completed digital scrapbook page. What do you think?
Can you guess which photo is a fake?
Can you guess which photo is a fake?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Chew on this...
"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
-1 John 4:8
I don't know God the way I want to. I know him from the Word, and I know him from His creation, but I do not KNOW Him as a friend, as a father, as a lover, or as Love. I have a knowledge of Him, but not an experience of Him.
-1 John 4:8
I don't know God the way I want to. I know him from the Word, and I know him from His creation, but I do not KNOW Him as a friend, as a father, as a lover, or as Love. I have a knowledge of Him, but not an experience of Him.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Tribute to Klinton
About a month ago, a young man who I never had the privilege to know, passed away. Below is a Eulogy given by his brother-in-law. I only hope that one day I may come to know our King Jesus the way this young man did.
Eulogy by Daniel Harris
My First Encounter With Klinton
About 6 1/2 years ago I was at a Church for a youth group all night event. A young man got up on the stage. He was very good looking. He played the bass and sang a song that he had written. I thought the song was great. It had a catchy bass line, wonderful melody and great lyrics. His voice was smooth and soothing with much emotion. The lyrics of his song reflected the fact that this young man really had a relationship with God beyond most people his age that I had encountered. I liked the song a lot and planned on telling the young man as much, and I did. This was the first time I encountered Klinton Joshua Jacob Boylan.
We got off to a fairly good start for the most part but there were some rocky times as he was intending to marry the baby sister of six brothers. We had our moments but as time went on, my brothers and I came to realize that there could be no one better for Elizabeth than Klinton.
As I grew to know Klinton I realized with joy that he had a great zeal and passion for Christ. He was consumed by this incredible obsession with God. Jesus was and is His favorite person to write songs about. Jesus was and is His favorite person to talk about, his reason for living and the love of His life. And Jesus was and is Klinton's great Savior from sin and hell.
Klinton's Love for His Lord and God, Jesus Christ
In my opinion, if there is one thing that is definitional to Klinton, it is His intense love and devotion to God. He expressed this love and devotion on earth as I'm sure He does in heaven in many ways including outbursts of praise to God. He would often times say as many of you heard him, "I love the Lord!" seemingly out of nowhere. But not really out of nowhere, but out of a heart that was intensely captured by and intensely in love with God.
Klinton now loves God more than He ever has before.
Klinton's Longing for Righteousness and Hate of Sin
Klinton was so intense in his pursuit of holiness and righteousness; so intense in his hatred of sin and longing for the day he would not have to battle it that sometimes it made those around him (including me) uncomfortable. I guess at least for my part this may have been because I already thought Klinton was beyond me in many ways so seeing the intensity of his hatred of his own sin made me feel REALLY sinful. Klinton would say sometimes spontaneously say, "I hate my sin". Klinton was not perfect on earth, but he is now in heaven, and I know when he entered God's presence His joy was great at seeing Jesus and being totally and completely sinless and righteous never again having to fight that war against sin. This was made possible by His Savior, Jesus Christ.
Klinton's Love for His Wife and Children
God was the source of an uncommon and supernatural love in Klinton for his family as he would have told anyone who would have asked.
Whenever just the boys were hanging out; rock climbing, skateboarding, climbing trees or just goofing off with Klinton, he would almost always be the first to say he was leaving. Even though we knew why, we always asked, "Why are you going buddy? Keep hanging out with us." His response was always something to the effect of, "I love my wife and want to spend time with her. I love my kids and am going to be with them."
He worked hard for his family not just as an electrician but in remodeling his home for his family, building a picket fence around his house for Elizabeth, building a backyard play toy with a slide and swing for his children and much more.
There were the camping trips and Creation Fest that he took his family on and invited others to come along with as well. And when Klinton was with his family I could see his deep, rich, unconditional, devoted love and admiration for his wife and children.
He strived to obey the command in Ephesians intensely. "Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the Church."
When Klinton was on a lot of medication at the hospice, as you can imagine he was kind of out of it much of the time. But when his kids came into see him it was like he snapped right into himself, he'd get a big smile and just love on them.
Shortly before Klinton went to be with our Father in heaven, he was at home and at the point of barely being able to swallow his pills, yet even at this point he was able to say his final words to his devoted and loving wife who stood by him with divine compassion through it all. His last words were, "I just need you to know how much I love you."
When Klinton was no longer able to talk or move, Elizabeth was by his side holding his hand through it, but if she let go of his hand, he would move. He would move his hand letting her know how much he loved her, needed her and wanted her to be with him holding his hand.
Klinton's Witness
The name Klinton means "City on a Hill" and that described Klinton incredibly well. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a stand and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way let your light shine before people that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
For a while, many of Klinton's friends went climbing at Spire Rock in Spanaway. Often while we were there we observed Klinton telling people about Jesus and he always did it with love and grace and humility.
I remember one time I was on top of the rock with Klinton and we thought we smelt a skunk. We then noticed another guy up there in-hailing a certain substance. Klinton then casually walked over to him and graciously told the guy about his faith in Christ and how Jesus is the way to have true, eternal abundant life. I was amazed. This in turn encouraged and motivated me share Jesus as well.
Klinton regularly shared Jesus at his work and every one of his co-workers knew he was a Christian.
He never stopped sharing Jesus. In the hospitals with every Doctor and so many nurses, in the hospice, in his blogs; Klinton would not and could not stop sharing Jesus.
Klinton's Musical Abilities For God's Glory
Singer, songwriter, guitarist, bassist, cellist; Klinton was a great musician. He loved music. One of my great regrets is that we did not play more music together. But a great reward was playing music with him while he was here.
Klinton, Elizabeth, my brothers Mike, Josh and I, all led worship together for quite a while. We Harris's in our music can be a little elitist at times unfortunately, and did not like just anyone playing music with us, but I remember when Klinton joined on the team it was so great a blessing to have him. He contributed so much.
All of Klinton's talents for music were given to Him by God and given back to His God by Klinton. He wrote amazing songs to Jesus. I hope Klinton did not think I was "just saying that" when I told him how great I thought his songs were. They are incredible, really. He played instruments for Jesus. He sang for Jesus. And he was very gifted in every one of these areas. And I believe he is still using His music to glorify His God today.
Klinton's Belief in Heaven and How to Get There
Klinton would tell anyone plainly, that if their hope of heaven was not grounded in Christ and His life, death and resurrection from the dead, then their hope, was nothing more than wishful thinking. I want all here to know what Klinton desperately wanted the whole world to know including you; Christ in your life is all that matters when all is said and done. He is Lord, He is King, He is God and He has authority over all His creation. And He is the way to heaven and eternal life.
Jesus loves us all limitlessly and is emotionally concerned about us. He is eager to save us from eternal separation from God in hell if we would only turn away from our crimes, the wrong things we have done and trust Jesus to save us. It is a free gift of grace from God. Klinton would tell you, Jesus Christ is the only way because He is the only one that has dealt with our sin problem. He is the only way because no one loves you more that God in Christ. He conquered death and will conquer it for all who believe in Him. Jesus Himself said that He is the way, the truth and the life. This is reality. This is where true, satisfying, eternal life is found; in Jesus Christ. This is the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the gospel Klinton believed and wants you to believe today if you don't already. Trust in Jesus who loves you, and He will save you.
Klinton's Influence on me
I really miss Klinton. He was a very dear friend and brother. I long to see him again where there will be no more death, sickness, crying or pain. I long even more for the day when Elizabeth and his kids will see him again in the glory of heaven in the presence of the most beautiful one of all, God Himself revealed in Jesus Christ who made the way for all who trust Him.
I ask myself, "How will I allow this incredible life to impact my own? How have I been and how will I be influenced?" Because of the example of Klinton in my life, it was not hard to come up with this abbreviated list of how his life has and is influencing mine.
1) I will strive to love and follow the Lord more passionately because Klinton modeled this for me.
2) I will love my wife and children more. I will make them a greater priority and give them more time because Klinton left me this example.
3) I will share the Gospel more boldly, more often and without hesitation because Klinton showed me how.
4) I will strive to live in greater righteousness and holiness because Klinton modeled this for me
5) I will hate sin more and flee from it to the Savior because Klinton demonstrated this in his life.
6) I will not compromise the Gospel for man-made substitutes because Klinton modeled this for me.
7) I will not let persecution slow down my witness because Klinton showed me how to persevere.
8) I will strive to be a more forgiving person because Klinton forgave me when I did not treat him as I should have.
9) I will strive to love people through actions as I saw Klinton do so often.
10) I will die believing that I will be with Jesus Christ on the other side. Klinton showed me how.
Of course Klinton would say to all this, "Oh hush. It's Jesus that enables you to do all these things, not me." Klinton would be quite right of course. But, I believe God not only enables us to do these things through Christ, the Spirit and the Word, but also helps us by giving us Godly examples like Klinton. As the Apostle Paul said, "Follow me as I follow Christ."
Eulogy by Daniel Harris
My First Encounter With Klinton
About 6 1/2 years ago I was at a Church for a youth group all night event. A young man got up on the stage. He was very good looking. He played the bass and sang a song that he had written. I thought the song was great. It had a catchy bass line, wonderful melody and great lyrics. His voice was smooth and soothing with much emotion. The lyrics of his song reflected the fact that this young man really had a relationship with God beyond most people his age that I had encountered. I liked the song a lot and planned on telling the young man as much, and I did. This was the first time I encountered Klinton Joshua Jacob Boylan.
We got off to a fairly good start for the most part but there were some rocky times as he was intending to marry the baby sister of six brothers. We had our moments but as time went on, my brothers and I came to realize that there could be no one better for Elizabeth than Klinton.
As I grew to know Klinton I realized with joy that he had a great zeal and passion for Christ. He was consumed by this incredible obsession with God. Jesus was and is His favorite person to write songs about. Jesus was and is His favorite person to talk about, his reason for living and the love of His life. And Jesus was and is Klinton's great Savior from sin and hell.
Klinton's Love for His Lord and God, Jesus Christ
In my opinion, if there is one thing that is definitional to Klinton, it is His intense love and devotion to God. He expressed this love and devotion on earth as I'm sure He does in heaven in many ways including outbursts of praise to God. He would often times say as many of you heard him, "I love the Lord!" seemingly out of nowhere. But not really out of nowhere, but out of a heart that was intensely captured by and intensely in love with God.
Klinton now loves God more than He ever has before.
Klinton's Longing for Righteousness and Hate of Sin
Klinton was so intense in his pursuit of holiness and righteousness; so intense in his hatred of sin and longing for the day he would not have to battle it that sometimes it made those around him (including me) uncomfortable. I guess at least for my part this may have been because I already thought Klinton was beyond me in many ways so seeing the intensity of his hatred of his own sin made me feel REALLY sinful. Klinton would say sometimes spontaneously say, "I hate my sin". Klinton was not perfect on earth, but he is now in heaven, and I know when he entered God's presence His joy was great at seeing Jesus and being totally and completely sinless and righteous never again having to fight that war against sin. This was made possible by His Savior, Jesus Christ.
Klinton's Love for His Wife and Children
God was the source of an uncommon and supernatural love in Klinton for his family as he would have told anyone who would have asked.
Whenever just the boys were hanging out; rock climbing, skateboarding, climbing trees or just goofing off with Klinton, he would almost always be the first to say he was leaving. Even though we knew why, we always asked, "Why are you going buddy? Keep hanging out with us." His response was always something to the effect of, "I love my wife and want to spend time with her. I love my kids and am going to be with them."
He worked hard for his family not just as an electrician but in remodeling his home for his family, building a picket fence around his house for Elizabeth, building a backyard play toy with a slide and swing for his children and much more.
There were the camping trips and Creation Fest that he took his family on and invited others to come along with as well. And when Klinton was with his family I could see his deep, rich, unconditional, devoted love and admiration for his wife and children.
He strived to obey the command in Ephesians intensely. "Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the Church."
When Klinton was on a lot of medication at the hospice, as you can imagine he was kind of out of it much of the time. But when his kids came into see him it was like he snapped right into himself, he'd get a big smile and just love on them.
Shortly before Klinton went to be with our Father in heaven, he was at home and at the point of barely being able to swallow his pills, yet even at this point he was able to say his final words to his devoted and loving wife who stood by him with divine compassion through it all. His last words were, "I just need you to know how much I love you."
When Klinton was no longer able to talk or move, Elizabeth was by his side holding his hand through it, but if she let go of his hand, he would move. He would move his hand letting her know how much he loved her, needed her and wanted her to be with him holding his hand.
Klinton's Witness
The name Klinton means "City on a Hill" and that described Klinton incredibly well. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a stand and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way let your light shine before people that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
For a while, many of Klinton's friends went climbing at Spire Rock in Spanaway. Often while we were there we observed Klinton telling people about Jesus and he always did it with love and grace and humility.
I remember one time I was on top of the rock with Klinton and we thought we smelt a skunk. We then noticed another guy up there in-hailing a certain substance. Klinton then casually walked over to him and graciously told the guy about his faith in Christ and how Jesus is the way to have true, eternal abundant life. I was amazed. This in turn encouraged and motivated me share Jesus as well.
Klinton regularly shared Jesus at his work and every one of his co-workers knew he was a Christian.
He never stopped sharing Jesus. In the hospitals with every Doctor and so many nurses, in the hospice, in his blogs; Klinton would not and could not stop sharing Jesus.
Klinton's Musical Abilities For God's Glory
Singer, songwriter, guitarist, bassist, cellist; Klinton was a great musician. He loved music. One of my great regrets is that we did not play more music together. But a great reward was playing music with him while he was here.
Klinton, Elizabeth, my brothers Mike, Josh and I, all led worship together for quite a while. We Harris's in our music can be a little elitist at times unfortunately, and did not like just anyone playing music with us, but I remember when Klinton joined on the team it was so great a blessing to have him. He contributed so much.
All of Klinton's talents for music were given to Him by God and given back to His God by Klinton. He wrote amazing songs to Jesus. I hope Klinton did not think I was "just saying that" when I told him how great I thought his songs were. They are incredible, really. He played instruments for Jesus. He sang for Jesus. And he was very gifted in every one of these areas. And I believe he is still using His music to glorify His God today.
Klinton's Belief in Heaven and How to Get There
Klinton would tell anyone plainly, that if their hope of heaven was not grounded in Christ and His life, death and resurrection from the dead, then their hope, was nothing more than wishful thinking. I want all here to know what Klinton desperately wanted the whole world to know including you; Christ in your life is all that matters when all is said and done. He is Lord, He is King, He is God and He has authority over all His creation. And He is the way to heaven and eternal life.
Jesus loves us all limitlessly and is emotionally concerned about us. He is eager to save us from eternal separation from God in hell if we would only turn away from our crimes, the wrong things we have done and trust Jesus to save us. It is a free gift of grace from God. Klinton would tell you, Jesus Christ is the only way because He is the only one that has dealt with our sin problem. He is the only way because no one loves you more that God in Christ. He conquered death and will conquer it for all who believe in Him. Jesus Himself said that He is the way, the truth and the life. This is reality. This is where true, satisfying, eternal life is found; in Jesus Christ. This is the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the gospel Klinton believed and wants you to believe today if you don't already. Trust in Jesus who loves you, and He will save you.
Klinton's Influence on me
I really miss Klinton. He was a very dear friend and brother. I long to see him again where there will be no more death, sickness, crying or pain. I long even more for the day when Elizabeth and his kids will see him again in the glory of heaven in the presence of the most beautiful one of all, God Himself revealed in Jesus Christ who made the way for all who trust Him.
I ask myself, "How will I allow this incredible life to impact my own? How have I been and how will I be influenced?" Because of the example of Klinton in my life, it was not hard to come up with this abbreviated list of how his life has and is influencing mine.
1) I will strive to love and follow the Lord more passionately because Klinton modeled this for me.
2) I will love my wife and children more. I will make them a greater priority and give them more time because Klinton left me this example.
3) I will share the Gospel more boldly, more often and without hesitation because Klinton showed me how.
4) I will strive to live in greater righteousness and holiness because Klinton modeled this for me
5) I will hate sin more and flee from it to the Savior because Klinton demonstrated this in his life.
6) I will not compromise the Gospel for man-made substitutes because Klinton modeled this for me.
7) I will not let persecution slow down my witness because Klinton showed me how to persevere.
8) I will strive to be a more forgiving person because Klinton forgave me when I did not treat him as I should have.
9) I will strive to love people through actions as I saw Klinton do so often.
10) I will die believing that I will be with Jesus Christ on the other side. Klinton showed me how.
Of course Klinton would say to all this, "Oh hush. It's Jesus that enables you to do all these things, not me." Klinton would be quite right of course. But, I believe God not only enables us to do these things through Christ, the Spirit and the Word, but also helps us by giving us Godly examples like Klinton. As the Apostle Paul said, "Follow me as I follow Christ."
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
June 2, 2005 (An old entry I'm re-posting)
To the Church of the Laodiceans
[Sermon Excerpt by George MacDonald]
The Christian life is a constant fighting.... You think Jesus Christ came to save you from any suffering and to do you good. He came to save you from your sins, and until you are saved from them He will step between you and no suffering. "As many as I love I rebuke and chasten. Be zealous, therefore, and repent." Rev. 3:19
What does repent mean? To weep that you have done something wrong? No; that is all very well, but that is not repentance. Is repentance to be vexed with your self that you have fallen away from your own ideal...? No; this is not repentance. What is repentance? Turning your back upon the evil thing; pressing on to lay hold of that for which Christ laid hold upon you. To repent is to think better of it, to turn away from the evil. No man is ever condemned for the wicked things that he has done; he is because he won't leave them...
The Son of the Father-the Eternal Son, with my heart and soul I believe, Who was ever and always with the Father; we cannot understand these things, but we get a little nearer to the profoundest truth of the Universe when we know something of the relation of the Son to the Father, for upon that the whole universe hangs-I say, the Eternal Son of the Father speaks of Himself as a suppliant at our door. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock."... Do you hear Him knocking at your hearts? He wants to get in. What do I mean by that figure? Well, I mean this, that He want to get to your inner house, your consciousness, your life, and to clean it out for you, and to turn out that self that you are always -to turn it out, and put the Eternal Father in its place.... It is His Father that He want to see ruling there. He is to be one with us in a way that there is no power in our hearts to understand the closeness of it, no figure in our language to say how close it is, for except you know how close the relation of Jesus Christ to the Father you cannot know how close the relation of every child of God, every creature that He has made, is to his Father, his origin...
When you are unhappy, restless, dissatisfied, do not know what to do with yourself, is is just because you have not Christ as your friend. To know God by knowing Christ, that is salvation, that is redemption, and nothing else is.
[Sermon Excerpt by George MacDonald]
The Christian life is a constant fighting.... You think Jesus Christ came to save you from any suffering and to do you good. He came to save you from your sins, and until you are saved from them He will step between you and no suffering. "As many as I love I rebuke and chasten. Be zealous, therefore, and repent." Rev. 3:19
What does repent mean? To weep that you have done something wrong? No; that is all very well, but that is not repentance. Is repentance to be vexed with your self that you have fallen away from your own ideal...? No; this is not repentance. What is repentance? Turning your back upon the evil thing; pressing on to lay hold of that for which Christ laid hold upon you. To repent is to think better of it, to turn away from the evil. No man is ever condemned for the wicked things that he has done; he is because he won't leave them...
The Son of the Father-the Eternal Son, with my heart and soul I believe, Who was ever and always with the Father; we cannot understand these things, but we get a little nearer to the profoundest truth of the Universe when we know something of the relation of the Son to the Father, for upon that the whole universe hangs-I say, the Eternal Son of the Father speaks of Himself as a suppliant at our door. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock."... Do you hear Him knocking at your hearts? He wants to get in. What do I mean by that figure? Well, I mean this, that He want to get to your inner house, your consciousness, your life, and to clean it out for you, and to turn out that self that you are always -to turn it out, and put the Eternal Father in its place.... It is His Father that He want to see ruling there. He is to be one with us in a way that there is no power in our hearts to understand the closeness of it, no figure in our language to say how close it is, for except you know how close the relation of Jesus Christ to the Father you cannot know how close the relation of every child of God, every creature that He has made, is to his Father, his origin...
When you are unhappy, restless, dissatisfied, do not know what to do with yourself, is is just because you have not Christ as your friend. To know God by knowing Christ, that is salvation, that is redemption, and nothing else is.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Pink Eye! Stink Eye!
I woke up today with pink eye! Can you believe that?! After having had the flu for a week and finally starting to see the end of that.......
It was very sad :(
But then Jesse came over and took care of me, and made me happy :)
It was very sad :(
But then Jesse came over and took care of me, and made me happy :)
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Pop Quiz!
Does anyone know the rest of this little jingle that was created by school children many years ago?
"...opened the door and in flew enza!"
"...opened the door and in flew enza!"
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Cool Kids
We had lunch with Vicky at Comfort Foods today. It was her first time there! Sweet :) We had the BEST server ever! (AKA Jami J!)
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Games at Jesse's
Adam, Cheramie, Jami, Vicky, and I went to Jesse's this evening to make fun of his pink kitchen.... er, I mean, to play games. :)
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Over the hills and through the pass.....
Well, we made it to Yakima without any trouble. It seemed quick as a flash too! Probably because I slept in the backseat all the way there. We had a lovely visit and a scrumptious Christmas meal. I was very glad that we were able to come!
And now comes the tricky part! Getting back home.... it looks as though the snow will be slowing us down - but how much, we won't know until we get there! Too bad TomTom isn't equipt with a snowplow option. Perhaps he'll know the secret underground tunnels through the mountains that the pioneers forged so many years ago!
I do know this: We're going to have one heck of a sing-song!
And now comes the tricky part! Getting back home.... it looks as though the snow will be slowing us down - but how much, we won't know until we get there! Too bad TomTom isn't equipt with a snowplow option. Perhaps he'll know the secret underground tunnels through the mountains that the pioneers forged so many years ago!
I do know this: We're going to have one heck of a sing-song!
Monday, December 24, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Doctor Amy!
This weekend, my sweet friend Amy finally finished her seven years of schooling and earned her doctor of chiropractic degree! Congratulations Doctor Amy!! After the ceremony and celebratory lunch, we packed up her house and headed back to Washington! I'm so excited to have her back in town! I look forward to lots of good times ahead!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Our World
[This is just random, unorganized thoughts while on my lunch break.]
At least 10 people have been killed in random violent shootings in America this past week. Why? That is the question everyone is asking. I wrote a college english paper about this subject just last year and even I wasn't completely satisfied with my answer. I do believe, however, that this kind of senselessness will only become more prevailent. Should I quit asking "Why?" Never. Should I quit trying to find a solution? Nope. This is not just some people's problem. It's everyone's problem.
This is our world. So, what are we going to do about it? There's a popular statistic that goes something like this: Eighty percent of the work is done by twenty percent of the people. What percent do you fall into?
I want to be part of the 20% who are doing the work. More importantly, I want that percentage to grow.
"That's just the way it is; somethings never change." How ironic that this lovely tune is playing on the radio as I write this.
At least 10 people have been killed in random violent shootings in America this past week. Why? That is the question everyone is asking. I wrote a college english paper about this subject just last year and even I wasn't completely satisfied with my answer. I do believe, however, that this kind of senselessness will only become more prevailent. Should I quit asking "Why?" Never. Should I quit trying to find a solution? Nope. This is not just some people's problem. It's everyone's problem.
This is our world. So, what are we going to do about it? There's a popular statistic that goes something like this: Eighty percent of the work is done by twenty percent of the people. What percent do you fall into?
I want to be part of the 20% who are doing the work. More importantly, I want that percentage to grow.
"That's just the way it is; somethings never change." How ironic that this lovely tune is playing on the radio as I write this.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
The Golden Compass
Many rumors about this film, which released yesterday, Dec. 7th, have been circulating and discouraging Christians from going to see it. Why are we all in an uproar about The Golden Compass? Sure, some guy hates God and wants to see Him destroyed - but he's not the only one you know! There are plenty of folks trying to do the same thing.
Do we think that if we shelter our children from this sort of world view we are doing them some sort of favor? Of course not. If we are training our children properly, we would expose them to this type of non-belief and blatant attack on God and show them the truth of God's word. We must teach them how to deal with times of questioning, not hide them away from it! Read this thoughtful article that shares my sentiment on the issue.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Friendship!
The holy passion of Friendship is of so sweet and steady and loyal and enduring a nature that it will last through a whole lifetime, if not asked to lend money.
- Mark Twain
- Mark Twain
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Monday, November 19, 2007
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
What would you take?
I was reading an article this evening about what items people were taking with them as they fled the flames of the fires burning in Southern California. Some folks grabbed important documents like birth certificates and tax papers. Others grabbed expensive clothes or other material items. Many grabbed photos and other precious family heirlooms. Some made sure they had the dog (and some forgot). One man ran back in for his tux saying that he has a difficult time finding one that fits well.
I began to wonder what I'd take with me if forced to leave my home in only a couple hours time. Photos? The computer? Would I remember the dog? My guitar or my grandfather's violin? I know I'd let my wardrobe go up in flames no problem (especially my work shirts)! But how would I take the beautiful, yet very large, wooden trunk my grandmother left me? I'd have to leave it behind and take her hair brush set instead. And what about the hours and hours of video footage? Would I snatch that up too? Or the many many thoughts recorded in a dozen journals? Is this even something you can really decide before hand? Or is it more of a spur of the moment kind of thing? Grabbing what's important at that point in your life. I'd like to say that my bible would be the tip top of the list, but really, come on, you can buy a new bible pretty easily in this country. Is that terrible or practical? Heck, I might even take a shower because who knows when my next one would be!
It reminds me of that insurance commercial that asks what's important to you and uses a pedestal to display the possibilities. So let me ask:
What would you take?
I began to wonder what I'd take with me if forced to leave my home in only a couple hours time. Photos? The computer? Would I remember the dog? My guitar or my grandfather's violin? I know I'd let my wardrobe go up in flames no problem (especially my work shirts)! But how would I take the beautiful, yet very large, wooden trunk my grandmother left me? I'd have to leave it behind and take her hair brush set instead. And what about the hours and hours of video footage? Would I snatch that up too? Or the many many thoughts recorded in a dozen journals? Is this even something you can really decide before hand? Or is it more of a spur of the moment kind of thing? Grabbing what's important at that point in your life. I'd like to say that my bible would be the tip top of the list, but really, come on, you can buy a new bible pretty easily in this country. Is that terrible or practical? Heck, I might even take a shower because who knows when my next one would be!
It reminds me of that insurance commercial that asks what's important to you and uses a pedestal to display the possibilities. So let me ask:
What would you take?
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Only Love Remains - JJ Heller
Scenes of you come rushing through
You are breaking me down
So break me into pieces
That will grow in the ground
I know that I deserve to die
For the murder in my heart
So be gentle with me Jesus
As you tear me apart
Please kill the liar
Kill the thief in me
You know that I am tired of their cruelty
Breathe into my spirit
Breathe into my veins
Until only love remains
You burn away the ropes that bind
And hold me to the earth
The fire only leaves behind whatever is of worth
I begin to see reality
For the first time in my life
I know that I’m a shadow
But I’m dancing in your light
Teach me to be humble
Call me from the grave
Show me how to walk with you upon the waves
Breathe into my spirit
Breathe into my veins
Until only love remains
You are breaking me down
So break me into pieces
That will grow in the ground
I know that I deserve to die
For the murder in my heart
So be gentle with me Jesus
As you tear me apart
Please kill the liar
Kill the thief in me
You know that I am tired of their cruelty
Breathe into my spirit
Breathe into my veins
Until only love remains
You burn away the ropes that bind
And hold me to the earth
The fire only leaves behind whatever is of worth
I begin to see reality
For the first time in my life
I know that I’m a shadow
But I’m dancing in your light
Teach me to be humble
Call me from the grave
Show me how to walk with you upon the waves
Breathe into my spirit
Breathe into my veins
Until only love remains
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Friday, September 14, 2007
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Washington Pharmacists Sue State Over Forcing Sales of Morning After Pill
Recently in WA, a new law has gone into effect that requires pharmacists to sell the morning after pill to those who seek it. Pro-life pharmacists who oppose the drug have, until now, been able to opt out of providing the drug to their customers. In response, one group of drug providers has decided to sue the state regarding this matter. They feel that they are now forced to choose between their livelihood and their moral foothold.
Firstly, the government has no business telling a business man what he can and can not sell to his customers - so I disagree with this new law. For that matter, there are a good many laws already in place that have too much to say about what a business owner can and can not do with his business - but that's for another blog.
Secondly, how grand it is to see those who are willing to stand up for what is right and good. These men are setting a wonderful example for the next generation, taking action on truth that has been spoken in so famously - 'the only thing necessary for evil to triumph, is for good men to do nothing.'
I am curious, however, to see if these men are all talk, or if they will walk the walk. Victory will be sweet if they win this battle in the court room, but what if they lose? If these are men of absolute character, they will not hesitate in hanging up their white coats. This, I believe, would have an even greater impact on the sons so eagerly watching their fathers in anticipation. This would be a triumphant victory indeed, and one not soon forgotten. For these men to stand and say they will not be party to the shame of this country, knowing full well they will have to start all over from the beginning in finding a new way of providing for their families, would be a display of righteousness and sacrifice not oft seen in this country.
Firstly, the government has no business telling a business man what he can and can not sell to his customers - so I disagree with this new law. For that matter, there are a good many laws already in place that have too much to say about what a business owner can and can not do with his business - but that's for another blog.
Secondly, how grand it is to see those who are willing to stand up for what is right and good. These men are setting a wonderful example for the next generation, taking action on truth that has been spoken in so famously - 'the only thing necessary for evil to triumph, is for good men to do nothing.'
I am curious, however, to see if these men are all talk, or if they will walk the walk. Victory will be sweet if they win this battle in the court room, but what if they lose? If these are men of absolute character, they will not hesitate in hanging up their white coats. This, I believe, would have an even greater impact on the sons so eagerly watching their fathers in anticipation. This would be a triumphant victory indeed, and one not soon forgotten. For these men to stand and say they will not be party to the shame of this country, knowing full well they will have to start all over from the beginning in finding a new way of providing for their families, would be a display of righteousness and sacrifice not oft seen in this country.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Is unintended harm punishable?
Phoenix News helicopters crashed killing four men while filming a high speed chase. Christopher Jones, 23, lead police on a high speed chase on Saturday, July 28th that ended in tragedy that no one expected.
This man should be absolutely charged with the deaths of these men as the unintentional result of his complete unconcern for anyone but himself. Had he not been running from the police, these two News Copters would have not been in the area together vying for the best shot of the "story". This accident is the direct result of the actions of this young man, regardless of any other excuse given (such as mechanical problems, or the weather).
This man should be absolutely charged with the deaths of these men as the unintentional result of his complete unconcern for anyone but himself. Had he not been running from the police, these two News Copters would have not been in the area together vying for the best shot of the "story". This accident is the direct result of the actions of this young man, regardless of any other excuse given (such as mechanical problems, or the weather).
Friday, August 3, 2007
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Outsourced Child Care?
My brother found this little video that I felt was worth passing on...
Report: Many U.S. Parents Outsourcing Child Care Overseas
Report: Many U.S. Parents Outsourcing Child Care Overseas
Friday, July 20, 2007
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Friday, June 22, 2007
Making Magic!
Glasses, converse sneakers, and a composition notebook somehow make anyone a good writer. At least, you feel like you're a good writer. It's like somehow these are the key ingredients and as soon as the ink hits the page there will be magic! It's too bad there's so much more to it. Hard work, for one. Persistence, for two. Patience, above all. The sneakers remind me of childhood and innocence and how you think you can take on the whole world. The glasses help me pretend I'm someone else - which is the meat in writing fantastic stories. The notebook? The notebook brings it all together. It's the inspiration. Blank pages. Beckoning the writer to fill them. And of course when writing in a Composition notebook, you aren't just writing, you are in fact composing.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Retail.
You know, the worst part about working retail is coming to learn the hard fact that most people arn't living up to their mother's expectations. Tisk tisk. "You're mother taught you better than that!"
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Cute & totally gross!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Kids are wiser than we think...
WRITTEN BY: KIDS OF AMERICA
HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like
sports, she should like
it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry.
God decides it
all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10
WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
-- Camille, age 10
HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the
same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8
WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each
other. Even
boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets
them interested enough
to go for a second date.
-- Martin, age 10
WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?
I'd run home and play dead The next day I would call all the newspapers
and make sure
they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-- Craig, age 9
WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
When they're rich.
-- Pam, age 7
The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that
- - Curt, age 7
The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them
and have kids
with them. It's the right thing to do.
-- Howard, age 8
IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?
It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to
clean up after them.
-- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)
HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?
-- Kelvin, age 8
And the #1 Favorite is........
HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck.
-- Ricky, age 10
HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like
sports, she should like
it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
-- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry.
God decides it
all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
-- Kristen, age 10
WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
-- Camille, age 10
HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the
same kids.
-- Derrick, age 8
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.
-- Lori, age 8
WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each
other. Even
boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
-- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets
them interested enough
to go for a second date.
-- Martin, age 10
WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?
I'd run home and play dead The next day I would call all the newspapers
and make sure
they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
-- Craig, age 9
WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
When they're rich.
-- Pam, age 7
The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that
- - Curt, age 7
The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them
and have kids
with them. It's the right thing to do.
-- Howard, age 8
IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?
It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to
clean up after them.
-- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)
HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?
-- Kelvin, age 8
And the #1 Favorite is........
HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck.
-- Ricky, age 10
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
KC
I'm getting excited to take a little time away to seek the Lord and visit a friend. It's time for a little adventure! I'll be heading east to Kansas City on April 13th and will be returning on the 16th. Just a quick trip, but I'm hopeful to find what I'm looking for!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Friday, March 23, 2007
From MySpace
So Rachelle tagged me to post ten random things about myself, so here's my go at it:
1) I NEVER eat at Jack-in-the-Box, unless it's with my brother Jason.
2) For my 21st birthday my father bought me a .22 pistol. Then we went and registered for a concealed carry license together. Sometimes I pull out my .22 and pretend to be a spy. I think it'd be fun to go duck hunting.
3) I like to make up words. It's totally fabulious.
4) I WILL name one of my sons Cornelius. And you can't stop me. :)
5) I really wish I had a twin sister. Maybe then I would like myself more.
6) I like to visit the library, or used book store so I can fathom the bravery of the authors who put themselves out there in hopes that someone would learn something.
7) I wish I knew how to stand up for myself so people wouldn't walk all over me.
8) When I was in junior high, I feared I might loose my right hand so I would practice writing with my left hand, just in case.
9) I fear I can't have the best of both worlds. Then I fear I won't choose the right world.
10) I want to live a life reflective of the foundation my great great grandparents laid many years ago, so that when I meet them in Heaven I will have something to make them smile about.
1) I NEVER eat at Jack-in-the-Box, unless it's with my brother Jason.
2) For my 21st birthday my father bought me a .22 pistol. Then we went and registered for a concealed carry license together. Sometimes I pull out my .22 and pretend to be a spy. I think it'd be fun to go duck hunting.
3) I like to make up words. It's totally fabulious.
4) I WILL name one of my sons Cornelius. And you can't stop me. :)
5) I really wish I had a twin sister. Maybe then I would like myself more.
6) I like to visit the library, or used book store so I can fathom the bravery of the authors who put themselves out there in hopes that someone would learn something.
7) I wish I knew how to stand up for myself so people wouldn't walk all over me.
8) When I was in junior high, I feared I might loose my right hand so I would practice writing with my left hand, just in case.
9) I fear I can't have the best of both worlds. Then I fear I won't choose the right world.
10) I want to live a life reflective of the foundation my great great grandparents laid many years ago, so that when I meet them in Heaven I will have something to make them smile about.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Friday, March 16, 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Question.
Ever feel like you can't tell someone how much you appreciate them or admire them because you don't want them to feel obligated to say something nice back, or because they might think you're trying to get something in return from them?
I wish I believed in 'no strings-attached' compliments.
I wish I believed in 'no strings-attached' compliments.
Thursday, February 1, 2007
A word from my pastor.
(I just felt like passing this on.)
Sin (Greek it means: missing the mark, or...not hitting the target) is something all of us struggle with. Each of us 'misses the mark' at one time or another. The woman Jesus is dealing with in Luke 7 is a bit different than us. How? In verse 47 Jesus says her sins are MANY. A very strong and telling word! It literally meant she had a LOT of sins and......all of them were MAJOR. This lady was not only missing the mark, she stopped long ago even trying to hit the target. She had actually reached the point of sinning deliberately. Perhaps she felt ....why try, I'm so far gone there is no more hope for me. Fortunately for her, one day all that changed. That day was the day she met the Lord Jesus and He forgave her.
Sin (Greek it means: missing the mark, or...not hitting the target) is something all of us struggle with. Each of us 'misses the mark' at one time or another. The woman Jesus is dealing with in Luke 7 is a bit different than us. How? In verse 47 Jesus says her sins are MANY. A very strong and telling word! It literally meant she had a LOT of sins and......all of them were MAJOR. This lady was not only missing the mark, she stopped long ago even trying to hit the target. She had actually reached the point of sinning deliberately. Perhaps she felt ....why try, I'm so far gone there is no more hope for me. Fortunately for her, one day all that changed. That day was the day she met the Lord Jesus and He forgave her.
Jesus forgives us. All the mess we make, all the laws we break, all the times we 'miss the mark'. He never kicks us off the shooting range! He says, your'e forgiven. Perhaps then the part that perplexes us is probably what went through the woman's mind in our text; How can I forgive myself? How can I live with myself knowing I failed God and let others down? Have you been there? The guilt, the fear, the anxiety that eats away at you and is like a gnawing and pounding feeling that seems to constantly remind you that you failed. Jesus wants you to let it go! He never, ever came to condemn you (John 316-17; Rom. 8:1-5). If you have asked forgiveness He IS faithful to forgive you and CLEANSE you (I John 1:9; Rom. 3:23-26; II Cor. 5:21). Cleansed people need not feel dirty because Jesus says they are NOT dirty. For he whom the Son sets free is free INDEED (John 8:36).
I thank God that Jesus never gives up on us. I thank God that He forgives us and does not desire us to feel guilty. I thank God that Forgiven sins will never be thrown back in our face. They are gone for good, forever, never to be remembered (Psalm 103:12; Jer. 31:34).
Forgive yourself, for Jesus already has.
Blessings in the name of the Lord Jesus,
pastor john
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