Light in darkness

.... And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.””

Luke 1:68-69, 71-79 NIV. http://bible.us/111/luk.1.68-69,71-79.niv

Christmas is about bringing light into a dark world. God came down to rescue us from the darkness of evil and sin. John was chosen to prepare the way. Today we are chosen to prepare the way for the impact of the gospel message. 

Christmas is not about our private little celebrations. Christmas is about spreading the word of the power of this marvelous event. The creator of all things coming down and serving us. That's the message and it is a call to humble ourselves and serve the lost, the lonely, and those who don't know our creator. We are the light of Jesus in a terribly dark and lonely world.

There is hope for everyone that lives in darkness. Jesus is that hope.

Christmas Songs

“I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord.”

Psalm 104:33-34 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/psa.104.33-34.niv

Sometimes you just need to sing. Christmas is a great time to remember to sing to the Lord. So many radio stations have nothing but Christmas music right now. I can't get enough during this month long celebration. I'm. It sure what my favorite is. There are so many great classics and new songs it's hard to say. But, all my favorites are on WBCL. That's my go to station during the year. It's a Christian supported station that just lights up my life. Right now there is a lot of wonderful praise music, classic Christmas songs, and joyous sounds celebrating the birth of Jesus on this wonderful station.

It's not just during the Christmas season that we need to sing to the Lord. Our Lord is present in our lives 365 days a year. Through stress, strife, hurt, illness, and loss he is to be e praised. We need to celebrate the Lord in prayer and praise! ALWAYS!

CHRISTIANS RISE UP!

“Remember, Lord, how your servant has been mocked, how I bear in my heart the taunts of all the nations, the taunts with which your enemies, Lord, have mocked, with which they have mocked every step of your anointed one. Praise be to the Lord forever! Amen and Amen.”  Psalm 89:50-52 NIV.  http://bible.com/111/psa.89.50-52.niv

The enemy is mocking the Lord. Nation upon nation taunt us. Within our own country the servants of the Lord are under attack.

Due to the multitude of school shootings over the last several years, even decades, schools are changing their response to attackers. The theory used to be for the classroom teachers and students to cower and hide from attackers. They were trained in passive resistance. NOW schools are teaching faculty and students to fight back. We are told we no longer have to sit there submissively waiting for some to terrorize us. We are to barricade our doors. If an attacker enters our room we are to attack with all of our might. We are to aggressively fight back.

School administration is giving its blessing to avoid being a casualty. Your powerful and wonderful God is also telling his followers: be aggressive, strongly counter our attackers. We are to destroy those trying to strip us of our faith in Jesus. We are not to stand by idly while we are being attacked. YES, we are to show love, but we are not to be trampled by those that wish to destroy us. Part of our aggressive response to attackers is to defend the faith. Many of the attacks are with words, laws, and regulations. We are to fight for our right to worship and love Jesus. We are to stand up, even to death, to defend the gospel. Too many people sit quietly while the world attacks our faith and removes our freedom to worship. Even in our wonderful country the anti-christian sentiment is growing. We are made to feel like second class citizens. Our laws and beliefs are being mocked and ridiculed. CHRISTIANS RISE UP! FIGHT FOR YOUR SAVIOR! FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO WORSHIP OUR GREAT AND POWERFUL CREATOR! FIGHT FOR THE BELIEFS AND WORDS IN THE BIBLE! DEFEND IT EVEN UNTO DEATH!

We are at war!

“When I have brought them into the land flowing with milk and honey, the land I promised on oath to their ancestors, and when they eat their fill and thrive, they will turn to other gods and worship them, rejecting me and breaking my covenant.”

Deuteronomy 31:20 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/deu.31.20.niv

We are at war! Yes, we are at war with ISIS and Islamic Extremists. But, the war is broader than just with this hate filled group. The war is against Satan and the devaluing of human life itself. Our nation and really the world as a whole, have been given blessings beyond measure. In our "abundance" we have forgotten the great God of creation.  We have become selfish and completely focused on our own lives, neglecting the lives of others. Satan has buried his lies in the hearts and minds of Islam. He has also filled the hearts of many of our own citizens with death through abortion and abuse of drugs, sex, and alcohol. We have lived so well that we have ignored God. We have been given a land flowing with milk and honey. We have eaten our fill and thrived. We have now rejected the same Lord that filled us with abundance. We have backed down when our faith is challenged. We have displayed a air of weakness and vulnerability and the enemies, from Satan himself, are on the attack. I cry out to the Lord for strength to change hearts. I ask for wisdom and guidance to stem the tide toward hate and death. I know, Lord, we win in the end. In the fight that is today and now, I beg your blessing, wisdom, and strength. Help me be a messenger of your love, your grace, and your mercy. Help us defeat ISIS and the radicals that want to destroy our faith in you. Please send leaders that listen to your word and your wisdom. We can not do this without you! We need you Lord!

God wins!

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.””

Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV http://bible.com/111/deu.31.8.niv

I just got home from a whirlwind week with the birth of our ninth grandchild. There was a lot of stress but there is mostly joy. Baby Izyk Steven should be coming home tomorrow and his life will begin with his three sisters, two dogs, a hamster, and loads of loving family and friends. I am so thankful for the love and support from my powerful God. He is amazing.

Now it's time for everyone to recover from the sleepless nights at the hospital and the stress of a sick new born. It's also time to praise God for his wonderful protection and answered prayers. 

It's Monday!

“Because you did not serve the Lord your God joyfully and gladly in the time of prosperity, therefore in hunger and thirst, in nakedness and dire poverty, you will serve the enemies the Lord sends against you. He will put an iron yoke on your neck until he has destroyed you.”

Deuteronomy 28:47-48 NIV http://bible.com/111/deu.28.47-48.niv

It's Monday. It's Monday after a long holiday weekend AND it's cyber Monday. I am going to guess it might be difficult for some people to focus on their work today. I am also venturing a guess that some people will be grumpy as well. 

Not Me!

I love my weekends, my family time, and the relaxation, but I love serving my students and my community. It is not a drudge to go to school on Monday, ever! These verses made me think about my roll as a joyful servant. These verses don't let us just stop at service, the Lord wants us to serve joyfully and gladly, in all things, at all times. We need to serve out of our blessings so we might be able to bless others. Serving under duress is not really service. Our joyful service, or lack of it, has consequences. If we choose not to serve with a joyful heart, our lives will be affected. Our prosperity, our basic needs, and our physical well being will suffer. We WILL serve but we will serve in slavery instead of freedom. 

I love it that it is not good enough to just serve. We must serve with a "right" heart for it to be acceptable to our father in heaven. I praise the Lord for the opportunity to serve him In so many wonderful ways. I am blessed beyond my wildest dreams. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Dear Hannah

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.1 Corinthians 12:12-14 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/1co.12.12-14.niv

I learned a valuable lesson from my granddaughter Hannah this weekend. We were visiting and she asked me if I was for letting the Syrian refugees come to the US. I am not. She was devastated. Her compassion for these people was deep and extremely real. I let her down. It made me sit back and think about my position. Her heart was so set on helping people who are in the midst of crisis. Regardless how I believe our own President has caused much of this turmoil, regardless how I feel the innocents are being used as a pawn by an enemy who is bent on destroying us, Regardless of the real or imagined fears I harbor about this topic, I need to have the compassion of my granddaughter and the heart of Jesus. Jesus helped save me even though I didn't deserve it. He saved me even though it meant he would sacrifice his life. I have heard it said even if just ONE of these refugees is a terrorist we should not help the rest. I'm not sure that stands up to the standards of Christ. Maybe I should be willing to sacrifice my own comfort to save just one family whose country is under attack by extremists.

I think we need to find a way to act on the compassion of my lovely granddaughter and we need to do it as soon as possible. If we can just save one life it will be worth it. The divisiveness of politics needs to stop. We need to come together, both sides, to be compassionate and diligent at the same time. Time is short, lives hang in the balance.  My granddaughter has it right and here is my public letter to her:

Dear Hannah, 

      I am so proud of you for your bold stand and emotional compassion for the Syrian refugees. Never ever let politics get in the way of your love of people in need. If our politicians had your love of Christ and the love of people that you have, we would be able to solve most of the problems in our world. Continue to listen to your heart because it is the Spirit of the Lord calling to you. I love you and am honored to be your grandfather!

Love forever,

Gramps

Do not Panic

“He shall say: “Hear, Israel: Today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them.”

Deuteronomy 20:3 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/deu.20.3.niv

I have ISIS on my mind, as does the rest of the world. The attacks in Paris last week may be a sign of a new offensive. This "war" is being fought in a very real way. I just heard about a High School group in Dekalb county that have cancelled there trip to Paris in 2017. I'm not sure what I think about that. Regardless what some people think, we are at war and I personally wouldn't travel abroad right now. But, two years from now? I think our fears of war, our fears for confronting evil can get out of control. We can't let the enemy change our lives. That is exactly what they want.

It's not just the fear of terrorists. We fear many of the evils in this world. We need to take this verse to heart. WE can't be fainthearted. We can not change the way we live our lives because of that evil. We need to hold dear our powerful, wonderful God. My wonderful Heavenly Father is with me. He is with those that love him and call upon his name. I will NOT be afraid!

Dear Heavenly Father, I praise you for your protection. I praise you for your love. I do not fear evil because you are with me. Please Lord help our leaders be strong in the face of this terrible threat. Give them wisdom and strength to continue the fight against evil in this world. We owe it to the weak and vulnerable to protect them with all our strength. We need to be strong and not panic or live lives filled with terror. We can only do that with you! Amen!

What sin have I caused?

“Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.”   1 Corinthians 8:13 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/1co.8.13.niv

Last week I had the privilege of traveling to an education conference in Orlando. In the evening we chose to go to one of these micro-breweries. I haven't had beer for a long time and didn't drink any this time either. I did have some of their own home made sodas. They were delicious. I had a red raspberry and a home made root beer. Wow did it have great flavor. Afterward, I really thought about why didn't I feel comfortable drinking a beer. It's not a sin. In my past I used to have quite a few beers. But at some point in my life, I decided not to drink alcohol any more. I did this because drunkenness is associated with drinking alcohol. I know many great people that drink and don't get drunk. They are fine Christian people. I just have chosen to try to make sure I don't endorse sin in any way. People know I am a Christian and I don't want to give even the appearance of being hypocritical.

But, do I pay attention to other sins as much as this one? Have any of my actions caused others to sin? Have my actions been hypocritical of the gospel of Jesus? I always need to remember that my actions speak louder than my words. I can spend a lot of time worshipping, praying, or studying God's word, That may make me appear like a wonderful Christian. My actions can destroy that witness in a brief moment.

Dear Lord, please help me be aware of my actions. Lord, forgive me for the times I have destroyed my witness by careless words or deeds. I don't want to become legalistic like the Pharasees. I don't want to judge others for their actions, but I do want to maintain a high standard for myself. I treasure the gospel and your wonderful, saving grace. I praise you Lord for your love! Amen!

We must fight the evil!

“When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.”

1 Corinthians 9:22-23 NLT

http://bible.com/116/1co.9.22-23.nlt

So many of us are angry right now. ISIS and the evil they are perpetuating is disgusting and our anger is real. We must fight to remove evil from this world. They are the biggest threat the Gospel has ever had. We need leaders to stand up for the weak and the persecuted. The spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is our only mission. We are told to GO throughout the world and share Jesus. The growth of Islam and radical muslims is a direct threat from Satan himself. The good news? Even through the vicious attacks, beheadings, and torture, it is reported that refugees are coming to Jesus in mass numbers because of this crisis. WE can never bow to evil! WE must step up our efforts to bring this world to the peace that ONLY comes through Jesus!

Dear Lord, WE need you. We need your protection for those on the front lines against evil in this world. We need your guidance and strength to continue to share your gospel even in the face of death.  I praise you Lord and take comfort in knowing you have already won the victory for us and even though evil exists in this world, you have promised a home in heaven that is filled with nothing but peace and love. Thank You Lord! Amen!

Lord Help us!

“Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent. Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

Deuteronomy 16:19-20 NIV

http://bible.com/111/deu.16.19-20.niv

Integrity is one of my most prized traits. I do everything I can to be known as a man of impeccable character and integrity. People know I'm a Christian. I pray they can tell through my honesty, integrity, and devout sense of right. Yes, I know that sounds a bit vain. I'm not where I want to be so I strive toward the goal of pure honesty, devotion, and justice. 

I am often saddened about justice in the world today. It seems that right and wrong or "basic" human rights are perverted based on politics and the power of the few. The integrity, honesty, and belief in absolute rightness is lost in our society. It starts with our leaders. The demise of our country hangs in the balance while we search for leaders with strength in character and purpose. We need leaders unaffected by the winds of political correctness. We need leaders that have a moral center and heart for truth and justice. We need leaders willing to attack the evils of this world straight to the enemy. We need leaders devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ and the gospel of love!

Lord help us!

Tis' the season!

“If anyone is poor among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward them. Rather, be openhanded and freely lend them whatever they need.”

Deuteronomy 15:7-8 NIV -- http://bible.com/111/deu.15.7-8.niv

During the holiday season "giving" comes to the forefront of our daily lives. We will see bell ringers for the Salvation Army, collections for the homeless, and gift buyers no for poor families. But the poor are with us 12 months out of the year not just during the holiday season. I'm not saying to be hard hearted and not give this time of year, but we should all have a plan for giving throughout the year. We need to give financially, and give of our time,and talents. We need to build relationships with those less fortunate than us and act on their specific needs. It is clear though out the bible this is our mission. 

Dear Lord, we love you and are embarrassed that we do not give more to the poor and the homeless. Help us to be your hands and feet in this world. Help us to serve those that need our resources, our time, our talents, and our money. We need to extend our helping hand with your love and grace. Amen!

Split personality!

“I want you to be free from the concerns of this life. An unmarried man can spend his time doing the Lord’s work and thinking how to please him. But a married man has to think about his earthly responsibilities and how to please his wife. His interests are divided. In the same way, a woman who is no longer married or has never been married can be devoted to the Lord and holy in body and in spirit. But a married woman has to think about her earthly responsibilities and how to please her husband.”

1 Corinthians 7:32-34 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/1co.7.32-34.nlt

I love these verses. For someone who spends a lot of time in ministry, I need to be reminded it is not my whole life. As I mentioned a week ago, I have a very busy life. Between school, after school work at home, taking care of a home, sending time with my wife, being a dad and "gramps" along with my CMA ministry, my life is packed. It can easily get out of balance. All of those things have a value and I honestly believe my work time is also ministry time. The one area that gets neglected the most is family. I need to constantly remember ministry is not an excuse to neglect your family. Work is not an excuse to neglect your family. We need to split ourselves and serve Jesus at all times, with family, work,or at play.

Dear Lord, I love you dearly. The things of this world and my OWN plans for serving you get in the way of real service for you. Please help me keep my life in balance. Even though I serve you wherever I go, I can't forget my family. They need to know your love through me. They need to see my example and dedication to family. I can only stay on your path of I follow you closely. Guide my hands and my feet with your love, grace, and mercy. Amen!

Serve

“Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.” Deuteronomy 13:4 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/deu.13.4.nlt

Today we hold elections in my CMA group. It's a privilege to serve the Lord through this ministry. No one else is running for president but we have a great number of members willing to serve on the officer team and a full slate of nominees. I am humbled to be the president of the Sonrise Riders again for 2016. I pray the Lord directs the votes of our members today. I pray he will send officers willing to sacrifice their time and energy to serve in ministry to the biker community in northeast Indiana and around the world. I pray your blessings upon us  and the  events of our chapter and help us to bring the lost to the saving grace of Jesus. 

Be careful

““But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today. For when you have become full and prosperous and have built fine homes to live in, and when your flocks and herds have become very large and your silver and gold have multiplied along with everything else, be careful!”

Deuteronomy 8:11-13 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/deu.8.11-13.nlt

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and these verses fit the season. We have plenty of stuff. My home is filled with abundance and our nation is in the exact same position. We are prosperous. You could say we are filthy rich. But when it comes down to it, we don't have it all. Many people miss the entire point of life. We focus so much on our jobs and our stuff that we forget the Lord. We disobey his commands and ignore his plan for our life just to acquire things. I am not exempt from this sinful thinking. Most of us have at least some of those thoughts, yes, even Christians. It's sad but true. We need to be careful that we don't get sucked into the drive for more things, wealth, possessions, and prosperity. I need to drive toward knowing you and your plan for me.

Dear Lord, forgive me for my selfishness. Forgive me for focusing on the wrongs things of life and not focusing on you and your plan. I truly love you lord. I want you to do,I ate my life. I want you to fill me with your spirit. Amen!

I'm too busy!

““Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the LORD your God has commanded you. You have six days each week for your ordinary work,”

Deuteronomy 5:12-13 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/deu.5.12-13.nlt

I do not know a single person who is not busy. We all complain about not having enough time in the day to get everything done. I am no different. My schedule this week has been jam packed with meetings, meetings, and meetings, grading, grading, grading, and then my regular daily duties. When we get together we try to out do each other describing our overloaded schedule. Many of us treat our busyness as an honor. Well, let me tell you....... It's not!

Eventually we have to say no, and mean it! 

God designed the week. He alone is responsible for the length of the day, the week, the month, and the years! It's kind of like spending money. If we make more money, we spend it. If we get more time, we waste it. Instead of asking for more time we need to say no AND we need to respectfully hold ourselves accountable to getting rest. We literally need a break. Sunday is a great day to engage in rest. If you trust the Lord, he will guide you to complete HIS agenda. If the task is not in Gods plan,  it's just not worth doing an God does not plan for our lives to be so busy we can't take time for him.

I need to constantly remember what my goal is. I need to hold myself to a higher standard. I need to get rest, set priorities, continue to focus on the Lord's plan and disregard the rest. The Lord is our priority. Nothing else matters.

Dear Lord, I love you and honor your wondeful name. You have given me such a wonderful life. I ask your forgiveness for filling it full of frivolous busyness. Help me take time to rest. Help me to remember what my life is really about. I praise you for always being there with me even though I don't take time for you like I should. Help me to be organized and to use my time to your glory and not mine! Amen!

What's up?

“That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.””

1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/1co.2.9.nlt

I can't tell you what will happen today. 

I can tell you what's happening right now. I can tell you what's happened so far today. But, I can't even tell you what's going to happen in the next five minutes.

 I like it that way. 

I am a creature of habit and I love my routine. I  get up, test my blood sugar, give my shot, take my medicine, shave, brush my teeth, get dressed, watch the news, eat breakfast, drink my coffee, complete my morning devotions, read the newspaper, and then leave for school! It happens every single weekday just like the rising Of the sun. But I really love the mystery and excitement of not knowing the what will happen from one moment to the next. There is no guarantee I will get to fulfill any of the tasks in my monotonous routine. My life is a never ending, mysterious adventure!

I love the mystery of what my savior has planned for me today, tomorrow and the rest of my life. I trust him dearly. I don't need to know the future because I know whatever he has on my schedule is for my good and his glory. The mystery of every waking moment brings a thrill to my life. I anticipate every moment with sheer joy. It comes from 55 years experience and 40 + years of life with Jesus Christ. Because of Christ, I no longer fear the unknown. Because of Christ, I no longer dread the challenges I'll face. Because of Christ  I know I have the power to overcome all challenges, defeat the evil in my life, and live in eternity. It doesn't get any better than that. 

The sun, moon, stars, are great but.......

“So do not corrupt yourselves by making an idol in any form—whether of a man or a woman, an animal on the ground, a bird in the sky, a small animal that scurries along the ground, or a fish in the deepest sea. And when you look up into the sky and see the sun, moon, and stars—all the forces of heaven—don’t be seduced into worshiping them. The LORD your God gave them to all the peoples of the earth.” Deuteronomy 4:16-19 NLT. http://bible.com/116/deu.4.16-19.nlt

I am looking out my window at an absolutely beautiful moon and yesterday was the perfect picture of a fall day. I enjoy the natural beauty of this planet, the stars, the moon, and the warmth of the sun. I quickly begin worshipping the creator of those things instead of worshipping the things themselves. That's not true of many people. I see so many people awed more by the creation than the creator. When that happens it's idolatry at its finest. We can easily lose focus on our heavenly father as we become infatuated with many things, including, nature, science, money, power, possessions, influence, or even knowledge. If these thing dominate our lives while pushing out our faith, we are headed for death and the depths of hell. 

There is one God. He created the heavens and the earth. He is above all things and des every our honor and praise. There is no debate about it. Thank you Lord for this beatifil planet and the natural wonders. It points directly to your amazing power. I am awed by you more and more each day. Amen!

No!

““But the LORD was angry with me because of you, and he would not listen to me. ‘That’s enough!’ he declared. ‘Speak of it no more. But go up to Pisgah Peak, and look over the land in every direction. Take a good look, but you may not cross the Jordan River. Instead, commission Joshua and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead the people across the Jordan. He will give them all the land you now see before you as their possession.’”

Deuteronomy 3:26-28 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/deu.3.26-28.nlt

I love prayer. I really enjoy my time communicating with the Lord. I am very open with my Lord. He knows all my thoughts and desires. He knows MY PLANS and listens to every request, plea, and desire. Because our relationship is over forty years old, I  have learned that sometimes the answer is no and I'm ok with that. I have given God full veto power over all my plans. I have learned this approach after forty years of trying to go my own way and messing things up. I still share it all and yes it sometimes sounds like a small child's Christmas list. Yet, every prayer ends with my sincerest desire for Gods will to be done in every part of my life. Moses kept trying to get God to change his mind, but he didn't. It was a  constant request. God listened but still the answer was no. We often don't know the why's but that's ok. I trust my loving Heavenly Father. I don't always need to understand and I don't have to always get my way. God is in charge!

Dear Lord, I am thankful for your direction. I praise you for your perfect wisdom and how it rescues me from myself. I am thankful you have given all of us the open door to a relationship with you. I thank you for the love you have for me, a sinner, saved only by your grace. Please help me to see your path and to do all things for your glory along that path! Amen!

Chosen

“God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.”

1 Corinthians 1:28 NLT

http://bible.com/116/1co.1.28.nlt

I am nothing and God is using me.

I'm not cutting myself down when I say that. It's the truth of any comparison to Christ. I am unimportant by any definition, yet God uses me! My Lord Has taken nothing and created everything. I praise him for his wonderful plan. 

God has chosen me, an honor I just can't fully comprehend. He has placed me on this planet, breathed life into my body and keeps me grounded through his grace and love. He chooses the weak, the powerless to display his power and might. He chooses the servant to be the leader. He chooses the timid to be bold and confident as they share his message. My wonderful God has chosen me!

Praise God I am his. I am in awe of his love for me. I am humbled that he has chosen me for his purposes and I pledge to serve him forever. Praise God he is MY God! 

Choose some well respected men..........

“Choose some well-respected men from each tribe who are known for their wisdom and understanding, and I will appoint them as your leaders.’”

Deuteronomy 1:13 NLT

http://bible.com/116/deu.1.13.nlt

I have watched every political debate so far this year between each of the parties presidential candidates. I am a deeply political person. I love my country and all that it CAN be. I am gravely concerned. We have lost touch with where we've come from and where we are going. We are polarized against each other and our wonderful nation is deeply divided. I truly believe all our candidates, republican and democrat, have a heart to help people in our country. But, our government has gotten so big that when we see obvious, necessary, changes, we can not move. Our beauracracy has grown to the extant we can't change. The men and women running for our highest leadership position do not have the power and skill to change all that needs changed because real change is not easy. True leadership takes action that's best fort he country, not best for their political future.

I am fearful for our nation. I am fearful we can not lead or find real leaders with wisdom and understanding. I am overwhelmed with the lack of real leadership qualities for our political leaders. We have "actors" trying to fit our leadership mold and have no one to make the thoughtful, tough decisions. 

So, what do I do? 

Pray! Pray! Pray! Pray!

Dear Lord, we need you! We need you to intervene. We need you to raise up great leaders that know you and have the strength, power, and ethics to lead this country. We need you to rescue our country from the evils attacking us from all sides. I love you so much Lord and know I have nothing to fear because you are here to protect me. You have always protected me and watched over me and I am humbled by your love! Come Lord Jesus! Amen!

The obscene phone call!

“The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.”

Psalms 91:14-15 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.91.14-15.nlt

Last week I got an obscene phone call from a very dear friend. I was just about home from school and my phone rang. I said "hello"........nothing. I repeated my  greeting, nothing. Then he responded, "this is your worst nightmare!" I knew right who it was! 

Real friendships never die because those friendships endure joy, pain, laughter, tears, and every emotion in between. Friendships can be fleeting in the sense we are such a mobile society. Nobody stays put very long. But the friendships are there even when we get separated geographically. The older I get the more I treasure those people I truly call friends! Maybe that's why my faith gets stronger everyday. I have walked with Jesus for 43 years. I draw closer every day. We have been through a lot. Jesus has always been with me. Even when I separate myself from him, he stays with me, watching me, waiting for my call. I praise God for his faithfulness. I love him and trust him with all my heart. I am humbled because I don't deserve his friendship. I don't deserve the honor or the blessings he gives. I can't count the times he has rescued me, usually from my own sinfullness and he wipes my slate perfectly clean. Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!

Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful, beyond measure, for your friendship. I am in awe of your steadfast love, your faithfulness, and your dedication to me and my family. You have protected me from harm. You have rescued me from myself. You have been there to answer my call during times of trial and your have honored me when I needed it the most. I praise you Lord! I love You Lord! Amen!

Your flock!

“Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example.”

1 Peter 5:2-3 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/1pe.5.2-3.nlt

I am so blessed to have a huge "flock". No, I'm not a Pastor. I don't run a church. I do have a wonderful growing family, a group of students, a CMA ministry, and countless friends in my flock. I am charged by God to care for the people in my life. It can be challenging, grueling, and exhausting to care for the lives of others. You stress out when they stress out. You mourn when they mourn. Their personal challenges become yours. You share their blood, sweat, and tears. We need to cherish that flock. 

Our relationship with our flock is not supposed to be two-way. We are supposed to give-all without getting anything in return. As a matter of fact our real purpose is to build up those that can not help others. To serve those that can't serve themselves is our highest calling. That love and servant heart is not to dominate, but to genuinely meet the needs of others.

How we lead our flock is just as critical as what we do. Our Christian leadership is about setting an example. It's about looking inward it's about that servant heart and not a position of authority. If we want our flock to grow in their relationship with the father, we need to constantly pursue him ourselves. Our relationship, our knowledge of God is never where it needs to be.

Dear Lord, give me a heart to serve my flock. Help me to keep a check on my motives and my attitudes toward serving others. I know your love. I know your example. The sending of your son, Jesus, is that perfect example. May I work toward that type of service. I praise you for your love. I praise you for the Hope you give! Amen!

Pursue him!

““Can you direct the movement of the stars— binding the cluster of the Pleiades or loosening the cords of Orion? Can you direct the constellations through the seasons or guide the Bear with her cubs across the heavens? Do you know the laws of the universe? Can you use them to regulate the earth?”

Job 38:31-33 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/job.38.31-33.nlt

We think we know it all. Our arrogance, that of man, is so misguided! We are guessing at what we know. Our knowledge of life, the universe, and it's tangled web is laughable. What do we really know? Can we regulate the earth, the sun, or the planets? What is it that we can create? Can I take nothingness, ignite it, even with a Big Bang, into something even close to life? No, No, No! 

I do not understand the feeling by scientists that we are nearing the end to what can be known. I can't believe that we have come so far as to say we could not be wrong. How many mistakes in theories have we made? Do we still feel the earth is the center of the universe? Is the world flat? Oh yes, we have been wrong before, we could be wrong again! Climate change, evolution, the "Big Bang". They could all be wrong. At least admit we have been wrong before and we could be wrong again! 

I truly love science and the pursuit of knowledge. I agree with what we "think" we know. But there is so much out there that we don't know. Our current knowledge about ourselves is so limited. The knowledge of our own planet, our own bodies is still so slim. Why can't we acknowledge the mystery of life and that God is possible? Is God even possible? If there is even a remote, insignificant chance of the existence of God, our entire life changes. The nay-sayers  won't go down that road.

God is real! He is relevant. He loves us and wants a relationship with us! Anyone who pursues him, explores the existence of my loving God, will find him. Just take a look around you. You will see him. His wondeful creative hand is in all things and I marvel at his creation. Praise God!

Pursuing Jesus!

“Then I pray to you, O LORD. I say, “You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life." -- Psalms 142:5 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.142.5.nlt

My favorite prayer is that my family, friends, and coworkers draw closer to the God of the universe. All I want is to do the same.

Maybe it's because of my age. Maybe it's because of my experience. Maybe it's because I have been showered with blessings for 55 years. I just want the Lord. I want him for myself. I want him for my family, I want him for my friends. Can you say the same thing? What else could be so important?

We are heading into the Holiday season. These holidays are centered around family. We make them about STUFF instead. We want this gift or we want that gift. The only gift that real matter is the gift of Jesus Christ. It's easy to lose focus in our busy fast paced society. So many things can occupy our hearts and minds. Pray for it. Pursue Jesus!

Dear Lord, come into my heart and the hearts of all I know and love. Fill me with your love, mercy, and grace. I want only to draw closer to you. I only want my family to draw closer to you also. My entire family needs you. We need you in our decisions, and in the actions we take every single day. Protect us from our own sinfullness. Protect us from attacks by those who do not know you. Fill us with your love! Help us to see your presence! I praise you and worship you! Amen!

I'm praying for you!

“Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, and my upraised hands as an evening offering.”

Psalms 141:2 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.141.2.nlt

I'm sure most of you have told someone you are praying for them. I see it all the time on social media. But I'm curious. What exactly does it mean when you say you are praying for someone? Do you just pray for them that one time? Do you begin praying for them and do it forever? When do you stop? 

My list of prayers continues to grow. It is a good idea to keep a prayer list. I'm not always faithful adding the names and as it grows, it becomes a bit cumbersome. But, I still think it's the best way to remind yourself of those in need. Every time you add something or more importantly someone, you can see the others added before. 

The key is: we need to spend more and more of our time in prayer. We can't just pray when asked to do so by our friends and family. We need to be in prayer, often, multiple times a day, without ceasing! We need to rely on our creator for all things, all parts of our lives, the good things, and the bad things. We need a genuine relationship where we get the know God. He already knows us better than we know ourselves. Prayer is a big piece of our relationship. God doesn't need to hear from us. He wants to hear from us. 

What system, how,any times, where, when, why, doesn't matter. Just pray! 

Can you take it?

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Psalms 139:23-24 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.139.23-24.nlt

One of my greatest challenges is to hear criticism. I don't think I'm the only one to recognize it. I'm not sure it really matters who is doing the critique, it's never easy to swallow. But, it needs to happen. We can't know of God's grace if we don't recognize our own faults and sinfullness. 

Our relationships need to be centered around pure honesty and openness. We need to seek ways to get better. That includes better ministry, better friendships, better family relationships, better jobs, and better anything! 

Know me, Lord. Examine me closer than a microscope. But don't just point at my flaws, help me to know the plan to get better. Guide me along your path, a path pleasing to you. I need you Lord. Send people to gently correct me, point out my faults , but still love me in spite of those weaknesses. As always Lord we need your guidance, counsel , and support. I love you with all my heart! Amen!

Follow Gods will!

“I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed by all the honor of your name.

Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your hand, and the power of your right hand saves me.”

Psalms 138:2, 7 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.138.2,7.nlt

My granddaughter is engaged. It's big news. I am excited for them. 

Marriage is a wondeful adventure at the same time it's not always easy. Lauren is 18. I was 17 when Stephanie and I got married and she was 18. People were appalled. But we really did love each other. There wasn't a pregnancy involved. We did not HAVE to get married. Our first child didn't come until about 2 years later. Lauren and Matt are following nearly the same path. We had a year of marriage counseling and a great supportive group of friends. Most of the family was supportive. Some had reservations that lasted for quite a few years. Now, 37 years later, we have beaten the odds. We believed God was in the center of our decision. Lauren and Matt believe it is all a part of Gods plan for their lives.

Lauren and Matt will face some horrible challenges. They will share some wondeful moments. They will cry, laugh, and travel through life together. I am greatly encouraged by my granddaughters faith. I am greatly comforted that this relationship has a great chance to succeed because it is center around God. Life is never certain. Sin is everywhere. Marriages do end in divorce. So there is no guarantees. But, when God is the foundation, you can and will beat the odds stacked against you.

Congrats to Lauren and Matt. We love you and are always here for you. Praise God for your wonderful love for each other and your love of Jesus.

I have nothing to complain about

““Why do the wicked prosper, growing old and powerful? They live to see their children grow up and settle down, and they enjoy their grandchildren. Their homes are safe from every fear, and God does not punish them. They spend their days in prosperity, then go down to the grave in peace. And yet they say to God, ‘Go away. We want no part of you and your ways. Who is the Almighty, and why should we obey him? What good will it do us to pray?’  “Yet the light of the wicked never seems to be extinguished. Do they ever have trouble? Does God distribute sorrows to them in anger? Are they driven before the wind like straw? Are they carried away by the storm like chaff? Not at all!”

Job 21:7-9, 13-15, 17-18 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/job.21.7-9,13-15,17-18.nlt

I have a very dear friend going through a tough time right now. Although his trials are not quite like Job, they are real and very much undeserved. I have been reading Job for a few weeks and I , happily, can not relate to Job. I really have nothing to complain about. Sure, I've had some trials, but even the worst trials of my life can not begin to compare with Job. Very few people have dealt with such calamity. Maybe I'm just blinded by my blessings, but my tragedies are very few and far between. That's what makes it so painful when I see my friend struggling. It's just not fair. Why am I protected? I am no different than he, yet he struggles and I don't. Better yet, like Job states, why do the wicked lead the life of luxury. Why do those that outwardly reject God feel no wrath? I just don't understand!

Dear Heavenly Father, I'm sorry for my doubts, my weakness, and my questioning your plan. Yet, I know you do have a plan. I trust you. I love you. I am embarrassed of the life you have given me. It's only through your pure grace that I am where I am today. I deserve worse than Job. Please Lord reveal your presence to my dear friend. I know he dearly loves you and is trying to remain strong even through his doubt and questions. Reveal your love to him in a powerful way. Give him comfort and provide strength to his family as they stand with him. Bond that family together and draw them all closer to you. Reveal your plan. Make it clear where his future lies. Guard his heart with your great and powerful name! Amen!

Salute to our all volunteer military

Y“When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly. You are arrayed in holy garments, and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew.”

Psalms 110:3 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.110.3.nlt

Being an avid motorcyclist I get to participate in a multitude of charity rides throughout the ride season. My favorite rides are for our veterans and active military. Bikers understand loyalty, duty, and honor like no one else. Bike clubs, ride groups, and associations are fiercely loyal to each other, just like our military and law enforcement officers. I have seen great sacrifices made on behalf of these brave men and women who serve our country. 

It amazes me how we can have such a powerful military, ready to defend our freedom, and it is an all volunteer service. Like the verse says, they willingly serve. In my words and thoughts they serve US with virtually no thought to their own safety. That is the same sacrifice of our loving savior. 

I am humbled and honored to support our military, law enforcement, and  first responders. May the Lord protect you, may the Lord make his face shine upon you and give you peace. May your families be blessed in extraordinary ways and may the Lord's presence be made known in every moment of your life. This country knows freedom only because of your great sacrifice. We need you to fight for that same freedom for those around the world that are oppressed and viciously attacked. We support all your actions to bring evil to justice and we support your efforts to kill the enemy of our rights to worship and serve our powerful Lord. Evil lurks in every corner of this planet. Satan slithers even in this great country trying to devour all that is good. You are on the front lines to defeat evil.  Thank you for everything you do! Amen!

How easy we forget!

“And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you.””

Matthew 28:7 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.28.7.nlt

Stephanie and I just completed our last camping trip of the year. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time with the new toy hauler and the great times with our grandkids. We've traveled over much of the country from north to south and east to west. I can't wait to do it all again next year. Rest and relaxation is not a sin. As a matter of fact it is a very important component of life. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the daily activities in life that we forget the important things. Jesus told us there is nothing more important than our relationship with the Father. He told is that next Important is our relationship with each other. Why do we always forget those priorities? Why do we so often forget the power of Jesus as we travel through life's struggles. It doesn't really surprise me that these verses tell us not to forget. 

My number one prayer for those I love is never forget the power of Jesus. That power is enough to get that job or that move you so desperately want. That power is more than enough to provide us with rest and peace when we need it the most. That power can save us from the turmoil swirling around us. It has the healing touch and can remove loneliness or restore relationships. The power of Jesus is real and not to be trifled with. Believe in him and the power that comes through his amazing grace and love. 

Dear Lord, so many times I feel I need to be the answer to my troubles. I rely on my own power and strength to fix my life. It just doesn't work. Jesus is the answer and his power and strength are more than enough for anything I am going through. I praise God for the times I am reminded of his wonderful love. Amen!

On Fire?

“Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.””    Matthew 28:20 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.28.20.nlt

These are the last words spoken by Jesus and are a part of what we know as the great commission. They are often neglected by me. I usually am centered on the "Go" part of these important verses. But, really I have a lot more responsibility than just going out. 

I need to spend time mentoring new disciples. 

There is a great song on Christian radio that is called "On Fire" by Sanctus Real. I just love this song. It speaks to our passion for spreading the gospel and how when we were "baby Christians" we are so On Fire and then as we go through life that fire dies. We need other people to light the fire in us and WE NEED TO HELP OTHERS REIGNITE THEIR OWN FIRE! We need to take all dwicpkes of Christ and make sure they are growing I their knowledge and relationship with Jesus Christ. If we don't have that fire, how can we expect others to have it. We need to lead by example. We need to share our passion for ministry and we need to keep our own fire going!

Listen to the song. Here is a link:

http://youtu.be/4Y5hLwwW7vM

Dear Lord, Forgive me when I lack the passion to preach your word. Help reignite the fire in me, everyday. Help me to see the joy of your wonderful message and the joy of this life you have given me. I am a blessed man and I need to share everything you have done in my life. I need to share my story with others so I can reignite the passion and fire in them. I love you Lord with all my heart and beg your forgiveness when that love does not shine through me. Amen!

A friend in need

“Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me. My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in! Like lions they open their jaws against me, roaring and tearing into their prey. My life is poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me. My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead. My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. I can count all my bones. My enemies stare at me and gloat. They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing. O LORD, do not stay far away! You are my strength; come quickly to my aid! Save me from the sword; spare my precious life from these dogs. Snatch me from the lion’s jaws and from the horns of these wild oxen. I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters.

 I will praise you among your assembled people. Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help.”

Psalms 22:11-24 NLT

http://bible.com/116/psa.22.11-24.nlt

I have a friend who needs prayer. He is feeling under attack. I pray for him and God's will in his life!

If you don't have anything good to say.......

“Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Well, aren’t you going to answer these charges? What do you have to say for yourself?” But Jesus remained silent........””

Matthew 26:62-63 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.26.62-63.nlt

If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all.

This might be the "go to" quote of my life. I'm not saying I'm the best at following it, but I do think about it often. I share its wisdom with my students, and believe it is very biblical. The power of the tongue is also very biblical. The words from our mouths can do wonders to lift people up and to tear them down. As Christians, we better be more about lifting people up with positive comments than being mean and cruel with our mouths. There is nothing that can destroy our witness more than our own cruel words. How can we exude the love of Jesus if we attack people with hurtful words? The world sees through our shallow faith when we can't control our tongue.

It is time for Christians to stand up and hold each other accountable for our own words. We must be careful and make sure our words are words that Jesus would speak. We need to make sure our love shines stronger than our hate. How can we bring others to know Jesus, or better yet, how can we even earn the right to share Jesus, when we speak cruelly of the world. Something has to change.

Lord, help us to tame our tongues. Help us to live by the mantra speaking good or speaking nothing at all. I praise you Lord, for your patience with us even when we don't represent your love as we should. Amen!

Today and Always

“I will praise the LORD at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the LORD’s greatness; let us exalt his name together.”Psalms 34:1-3 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.34.1-3.nlt

Sometimes you have to repeat these verses over and over again in order to survive the day with Love in your heart. 

You have heard me sing the praises of the Lord often in these pages. It's so easy to do that when life is good. But, when life is NOT so good, that is the true test of faith. I don't have those days very often. But sometimes my work  colleagues and I don't see eye to eye. Sometimes my family and I "but-heads". Sometimes I blow up or I am misunderstood or someone blows up at me. It's those days I need to praise God the loudest. I need to shout his name from the mountain tops and get excited for his love. 

I praise you Lord. I exalt your name above all others. I am rescued by your powerful hand and rejoice within your strong embrace. My life has its ups and downs, but your love for me is always the same and I praise you for that "everlasting" love. I love you Lord, today, and always! Amen!

Still a heavy heart!

“May those who rejoice at my troubles be humiliated and disgraced. May those who triumph over me be covered with shame and dishonor.”  Psalms 35:26 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.35.26.nlt

I am still struggling a bit with the tragedy last week in Oregon. The fighting and use of this tragedy for political gains is disgusting and appalling. The enemy rejoices at the turmoil unleashed by this lone gunman. I wil say it again and again and again, you can not legislate morality. You can't change hearts with the signing of a law. People that are not grounded in the reality of life, that don't value the lives of others or even their own life, will not live by ANY law created by man. We need to do everything possible to create citizens with hearts for love, that care deeply about their own. 

Satan is laughing with every moment he can distract us from our one mission, turning cold hearts to warm hearts for our savior. When we lose focus on bringing the lost to a saving relationship with Jesus, we lose hope. Satan does not win, our hope is real and that hope remains forever in Jesus. It does not matter what Satan does, it does not matter how humiliated or disgraced you feel, we are triumphant now and forever.

Dear Lord, I sincerely come to you with a heavy heart for the families of those lost on Roseberg. Make your presence known to them. Give them comfort and oeace in this time of great grief and shock. We know you are in charge and the enemy is already defeated. Help us to defeat that enemy here and now. Amen!

Gorge Fest!

““The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son. When the banquet was ready, he sent his servants to notify those who were invited. But they all refused to come! “So he sent other servants to tell them, ‘The feast has been prepared. The bulls and fattened cattle have been killed, and everything is ready. Come to the banquet!’ But the guests he had invited ignored them and went their own way, one to his farm, another to his business. Others seized his messengers and insulted them and killed them.”

Matthew 22:2-6 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.22.2-6.nlt

There is not a more fitting verse in the Bible, right now, than this. It is a parable of today. I know people that would do anything to get invited to a free, all-you-can-eat banquet. Modern day weddings are exactly that. They are "gorge" fests for the invited. You know in your heart if  you were invited you would make sure you would attend. No one in their right mind would refuse. 

That's the key. 

No one in their right mind would refuse the gifts that Christ promises. There are no restrictions. It's free and the extravagance is well beyond your imagination. But, in our modern world, people are ignoring the invitation, rejecting the offer and persecuting the messengers. We are being systematically destroyed. We are being Insulted, beaten, and in some cases killed. Jesus is our only hope in this dark and hostile world. 

Lord help us. Protect us from the evils of this planet. Give us hope and remind us of your ultimate victory. We need you, Lord, now more than ever. Amen! 

This is the answer to stop mass shootings

“Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.””    Matthew 22:37-40 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.22.37-40.nlt

I am saddened, deeply, about the Oregon mass shooting. I am even more saddened we can't figure out why. The answer is simple and becomes blatantly clear with this particular incident. 

Jesus Christ himself is under attack. Christians are under attack. The followers of Christ are being systematically attacked by Satan. He is using the countless number of lost souls to target our faith. You will be asked if you are a follower of Jesus. What will you say!? 

Until we start standing up for Jesus, evil will flourish. Our leaders need to stand up for him. The world needs a revival. We need to win the hearts of the lost, serve the homeless, the orphans, and love the unlovable. We need to battle all that is evil with the only power we have. The power of the love, mercy and grace of Jesus, is the only answer.

Dear Lord, I pray deeply for those that lost their lives in Oregon because they follow you. I pray peace for their families and comfort through this tragedy. The world needs you no more than ever. Help us to fight the battle with your power and might. Amen!

I'm in awe!

“When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor. You gave them charge of everything you made, putting all things under their authority— the flocks and the herds and all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and everything that swims the ocean currents. O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!”

Psalms 8:3-9 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/psa.8.3-9.nlt

I was greatly dissappointed Sunday night when the cloud cover blocked our view of the blood moon. I am wonderfully fascinated by our natural world and marvel at the hand of God that made it. Every time I see one of God's many wonders I really try to reflect on his awesome power. You can call it pure science, I call it true love. When I'm camping, traveling, or just watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset, I praise God for his majesty. It's everywhere.

The God that created us, knit us in our mothers womb, created Mars and the chance of water/life on it, wants to be with us. Don't you think it is amazing that the creator of all things wants a relationship with you? We are such a small speck in the fabric of the universe and God loves us deeply, so much that he sent his son to die for us. 

I am overwhelmed by that kind of love!

Maybe not in a President........ But,

But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.””

Matthew 20:1-16, 25-28 NLT -- http://bible.com/116/mat.20.1-16,25-28.nlt

I am very in tune with national politics. I love my pre-vote analysis to decide who I am voting for. Call me weird, but I think it's fun. At this point, and it's early, I have not decided who I will vote for. As always my "ideal" candidate is nowhere to be found. So, what is it I want in a candidate? 

I want them to focus on thes verses:

"Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

I just don't see any humble servants running for President. I wished there was. I would give anything for a true servant-leader in charge of our country. I would give anything for a candidate  to be a slave to us and not special interest groups and other politicians. Really, all leaders need to se be this way. Leadership is about serving others, not bossing them around. I love working for a principal that serves his staff. I love working for a school that is filled with lstaff members that want to serve the students we lead. Whenever you can get any organization to think of themselves as servants it will be successful.

My CMA chapter is full of servant leaders and this month starts our election process. We have nearly 25 people eligible to serve as leaders and so far most are willing to serve if asked. That is amazing and only possible through the working of the Holy Spirit. I love my CMA family.

Dear Lord, I humbly pray with all sincerity for our leaders, including the President, congress, my state leaders, my school administration, and the leaders of my church. I pray for our elections and that your hand will be in them, helping us select leaders that have a heart for your kingdom. I also pray for my CMA chapter elections and our mission. I am thankful for those willing to serve in all leadership positions and ask you to give wisdom and discernment as they serve. May we all look at your example for true servant leadership. Amen!