Great OutDoor Endeavors

Shadowlands

2009-07-16T10:53:00.002-04:00

"I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." Luke 19:40

Monday! Our first full day in Sedona, AZ. Surely, the first thing that strikes you is the majestic red rocks. While there are many “destination stops” in AZ, like Grand Canyon and Painted Desert, Sedona can hold its own with any of them, and, in my opinion at least, overshadows them.

Our goal this first day was to acclimate to the dry heat and get our legs under us for Wednesday’s trip down into Grand Canyon. To that end, we had a mandatory hike planned, and then free time around Sedona and the resort we were staying in. For the willing, we did have another hike planned for the afternoon.

As was planned for everyday, all 13 of us gathered early in the morning for our time of worship and devotions. We were reminded this morning of two of Great OutDoors’ guiding passages: Psalm 19:1-3, “the firmament shows His handiwork,” and Romans 1:20, “His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made.” If they are that obvious, our goal was to go and seek them out.

Our first stop was to purchase our Red Rock pass (parking permit for trailheads in & around Sedona); our first hike that morning was Cathedral Rock. Cathedral Rock is a short hike, only 1.5 miles roundtrip, but it is steep. Steep is a 600 foot elevation gain in only ¾ mile. All of us started the hike, and all of us reached the top. The combination of altitude (400 feet above sea level for our home in VA to over 4500 feet in Sedona) and climate change (hot and humid to hot and dry) was a challenge for some of us, but we made it. Were we glad we did! What an awesome view!

As you stand at the top, on the final “saddle,” and also between the twin “spires,” you can see the village of Oak Creek in “front” and Red Rock Crossing “behind.” The views are so unbelievably crystal clear; you can see for miles. In fact, the entire valley is visible from the top; from one end to the other, there is nothing you can’t see. As we looked out over the beautiful surroundings, we were reminded that as awesome as it was, it is but a remnant, a faint shadow, of the original world God created. How much more incredible must the original have been!

Even the trail itself is beautiful. The contrast between the red rock outcroppings and the dry, dusty areas supporting tenacious life were amazing. To see life thriving in the midst of harsh conditions was one of the lessons learned from this day: if God can nurture & support life among the barren rocks, think of the barren times in our own lives where God has still continued to sustain us. Nice!

After a break for lunch, over half of us decided we would ascend Bell Rock.

Bell Rock, so named because it resembles, you guessed it – a bell – is a fairly easy climb, if you: 1. Go up from the well-marked south-side, or 2. if you can follow the trail on the north side. We began from the north side. On the north side, you lose the cairns about ½ way up. About ½ way up is also where you run into a sheer red rock wall of about 60 degrees (my conservative estimate). We lost the cairns at the base of the outcrop, so it seemed logical that the way up was up the rock face. So up we went. Thankfully, it was a relatively short climb, because it was steep! Most of us LOVED it, some were a bit – well, scared. The thought of having to descend that same wall was on all of our minds. While we were at the top, one of the locals hiked up, using the trail, and pointed us in the right direction back down. Much easier! To use the trail, even though it’s not marked, from the north, keep working your way left around Bell Rock. Eventually it makes its way to the top.

Back to the resort, and after a dip in the pool and dinner that night, we spent some time just reflecting on the day and what was “shown” and what was “clearly seen.”

For me and a few others, we were reminded of how really tiny and insignificant we really are. Standing beside those huge, towering rocks was a nice reminder that God is so enormously huge to have created all that He has, but also, that He is still in control of all that He has created! Also, as large and as impressive as these stones were, they were only stones. God is the true “immovable Rock!” For that, I am thankful, and there seems to be only one fitting response - praise. If we don’t, even these stones will!

“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.” Psalm 95:6

Seeking To Find

2009-07-04T00:47:00.001-04:00

And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

One week ago, June 21 – 28, we embarked on Great OutDoor Endeavors’ first week long adventure trip.

Our destination? Arizona.

Our goal? While we wanted everyone to enjoy their vacation and the sights of Arizona, our main objective was to dis-connect from “the world,” and to re-connect to God.

You see, we believe that all of creation testifies to the power and dominion of the Living Creator God, and that we can experience Him in His creation. Two of our guiding Scriptures for the week were Romans 1:20, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,” and Psalm 19: 1 – 3, “The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard.” Our goal was to see, to hear, and to understand.

Now, if these attributes are clearly seen in the things that are made, and God’s glory is being declared by the heavens and shown in the firmament, why do they escape most people?

The driving idea behind Great OutDoors is that most people are simply too busy and too distracted by the hustle and bustle that are our lives to take time to notice God’s handiwork and to look for His attributes being displayed. We wake up in the morning in our artificial, man-made environments; we rush to our cars and fight traffic to arrive in another artificial, man-made environment. We spend all day inside, and then we rush to our vehicles to start the process all over again. Rarely do we take the time to “be still and know” that He is God. Rarely do we take the time to stop and just observe our natural, God-made surroundings. Even rarer do we take the time to consider what they are saying to us; remember, “day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge.” As the passage from Jeremiah states, we will find Him if we seek Him and search with all our heart.

Over the next week or so, I’d like to share the experiences of the thirteen people that made the trip to Sedona, Az and on to Grand Canyon and Havasu Falls.

While you join us as we re-create the journey, I pray that you are blessed, encouraged, and motivated to seek Him with all your heart. I know that if you do, you’ll find Him.

You have His Word on it!

"Short Hike" Relationships

2009-06-04T12:38:00.003-04:00

Well, as mentioned last week, we’ve done two hikes recently. The first was the Rose River Falls trail, the other was the “long” version of Mary’s Rock.

Rose River Falls: Easily my favorite. This trail combines distance and elevation gain for a fairly strenuous hike, and by far the most beautiful scenery and interesting landmarks of any of the hikes we’ve done.

A group of us went out on a beautiful Saturday morning. As we got underway, we saw several Park Service rescue vehicles. All sorts of scenarios came to mind, ranging from the mundane (training exercise) to the gruesome. Considering this is one of two trails where we have encountered bears on the trail, we pictured all sorts of things. As it turned out, an unfortunate woman had broken her leg on the trail. I’m amazed at how many people we’ve encountered who have hurt themselves while hiking. I’ve never considered hiking a dangerous endeavor; apparently, I should re-think that.

That was the extent of the excitement for the day; to our major disappointment, saw no bears. We had to content ourselves with several deer feeding on the other side of the cascades on our ascent, and with the ever inspiring views of falls and cascades along the trail.

Our final stop before returning to our vehicles was the small cemetery along the fire road to pay homage to those buried there. I’m still intrigued by the idea that before this was a National Park it was home to many families. Where I go to “get away from it all,” they made home. They lived, and died, and were buried right here. There were homes and churches in these mountains and many of the fire roads are remnants of roads these folks traveled up and down to the flatlands.

Mary’s Rock: OK, “long version” is a little misleading. Even the “long version” is only about 2 miles long; ½ uphill, ½ downhill. Up and back – that’s it. Ah, but the view from the top is awesome! With the large granite outcroppings, this is a poor (or lazy) man’s Old Rag hike. The views are every bit as good as from Old Rag.

Valerie and I had a wedding to attend that afternoon, so a short hike was better than no hike, so off we went. We were joined by some friends, a couple, Randy and Julia, who also will be traveling to the Meet Your Maker – AZ week trip with us to Sedona, Az. and Grand Canyon the end of June.

Once again, no major excitement (no rescues, no bears, no bobcats) on this day, but we did have plenty of good conversation and an exhilarating bit of exercise.

The Mary’s Rock hike reminded me of an important point: just as in hiking, so it is in our relationships, a “short hike” is better than “no hike,” and “major excitement” is not a necessary component in order to have enjoyment; sometimes, good conversation is all it takes.

I have a tendency to put off making a call, or visiting in person, those I care about until I can make it a “proper” visit. You know, spend a lot of time talking and eating, spending hours in one another’s company. There is one problem with this idea however: how often do you get hours of free time to go spend somewhere visiting? If you’re like me, you have to do some major schedule arranging to make these types of visits happen. And usually, we don’t.

My brother lives 40 minutes away from me, but he lives in the town I work in. We are constantly trying to arrange “a visit.” Not just “a visit,” but a few hours long visit, usually centered on a meal. And “a visit” never happens. How much better if I was to just stop in on my way to or from work occasionally for a 15 - 30 minute face-to-face?

How much better to just take the “short hike” to let folks know you’re thinking of them and they matter to you!

This principal applies especially to our relationship with our Creator. How much better to make frequent, shorter “hikes” to talk to Him than to neglect Him for long periods of time waiting for that one , long, “special” time with Him. He wants to hear from you – don’t put it off. Read a chapter if that’s all you have time for. Say several brief prayers if you weren’t able to spend that hour in quiet time this morning. Sing, or listen to, praise songs during the day to put you in His presence. The important thing is (sorry Nike) – Just Do It!

While We Were Out

2009-05-27T17:56:00.002-04:00

Well, well – good to be back! We missed you while we were out! It’s hard to believe a month has gone by since our last chat. So much has gone on – let’s catch up, shall we?

We have taken groups on three hikes: Big Devil’s Staircase, Rose River Falls (yeah, I know – again; as you can probably tell – I love that trail), and Mary’s Rock (longer version of a short trail this time). We also took a group on our big camping weekend to Natural Bridge/VA Safari Park.

Big Devil’s Staircase: Valerie and I had done this one once before but had to stop short of finishing it completely. We had gotten a late start and darkness threatened to overtake us. This time, we were determined to make the circuit, including the “old trail” alongside the creek.
First, let me explain the “old trail.” Seems the “old trail” kept getting flooded out and washed away, so instead of constantly re-marking and blazing the “old trail,” it was just decided to eliminate the “old trail.”

I had read, on another hike sight, by a fellow hiker, that the old trail was easy to find, “awesome route finding skills,” or something along that line, were not needed to find the remainder of the trail. Honestly, that was what I read. Yeah, right.

Off we went, determined to conquer the entire trail, all 5+ miles of it. We reached, and passed, the point we had turned back the first time. So far, so good. We reached the point where our map said to turn around because, and I quote, “beyond this point begins a steep descent and is not recommended.” I drive for a living and I know there are times to follow directions to the “T” and times where you can improvise and take chances. Trust me on this, unless you want to work real hard at your hike – TURN AROUND when the map tells you it’s not a good idea to proceed.

We pressed on, beginning the aforementioned “steep descent.” And it was. We kept going in anticipation of the cool hike back up beside the flowing water to the waterfalls spotted in the canyon earlier. Amazing what one will do for the sight of a waterfall.

We kept going – over a trail that had seen better maintenance days. Some parts were leaf covered and disappeared, while other parts were blocked by downed trees. By looking for the next blaze and a little off-roading, er, I mean off-trailing, we plodded ever onward.
We finally made it to the park boundary at the bottom of the mountain and the creek we would follow back to the top. Or thought we would follow back to the top.

Now, I don’t know when the fella who said no outstanding navigation skills were necessary had last been this far, but it was quickly obvious that there was no trail. I hiked about 150 yards up the stream to see if I could find any blaze markings or sign of an “old trail;” there was nothing to be seen. Could we have found our way? Pride says “YES!” Did we? No.

Did I mention we took our dogs again? Note to everyone out there: if you take a trail that’s labeled strenuous, don’t take an animal with you until you’ve had a chance to check the trail out. You would think Valerie, after taking an unplanned bath the last time, would be especially sensitive to this, but alas, we don’t seem to have learned our lesson … but I digress.

We decided to turn around and take the sure way back. Two problems with that plan.
1. By this time we were well past the ½ way point of the original hike. Our 5+ mile hike just turned into an 8+ mile hike. That wasn’t the worst part though, because –
2. That “steep descent” that wasn’t recommended now became a steep ascent that I don’t recommend.

We finally made it to the top and were completely worn out. The worst part was, because we took longer than expected, we missed our traditional “triumphant hike” ice cream cone at our favorite spot: Stonewall Abbey in Sperryville.

Remember that pride thing I mentioned earlier? Because of it, there is one thing you can count on: we’ll be back to Big Devil’s Staircase and we will conquer the “old trail.”

Next post: we’ll get you up-to-date on the other two hikes and Natural Bridge trip. Till then – get OutDoors and Meet Your Maker!

Think on these things ...

2009-04-26T23:21:00.003-04:00

Ever heard the expression “quit while you’re ahead?” Sometimes that point happens to be before you even begin!

With the warmer weather the last few weeks, we’ve managed to get out and hike with some regularity. Our first hike this year was Little Devil’s Staircase. By the time we were done, Valerie probably was thinking it should be our last.

Everything was great as we pulled into the parking lot. The dogs were excited and Valerie and I were itching to get going; all the way up to trail head.

The first thing you come to, at the beginning of the trail, is a nice little, trickling stream – normally. This day, the water level was up considerably which caused us to look for an easy way across. Yeah, right!

We found a nice, wide, downed log that crossed about 4 feet above water level; just the right size for a couple to balance beam across. Except for the dogs. Valerie went first. She decided to sit and shimmy across on her backside with one of the dogs’ attached by leash to her wrist as it waded through the stream. About half way across, the dog yanked the leash. Valerie managed to stay avoid taking a swim, but she paid with a skinned forearm and a huge knot to go with it. Strike one.

Ordinarily, the awesome views (cascading waterfalls are the norm) more than make up for the steep climb. The trail crosses the stream, over and back, several times as you climb higher and higher. Again, normally, this is not a problem. And, if it weren’t for the dogs being along, it would have actually made for a little more excitement, adding some rock climbing and log walking to the regular hike. Ah, but those dogs. They don’t do rock climbing or log walking.

About halfway up, we were again faced with a difficult crossing. There were stepping stones, but they were a little slick and a bit too far apart for a 5’1” woman, especially with a dog attached to one arm. You guessed it – as she tenuously crossed the stream, the dog gave a tug and Valerie went for a swim. Not only did she come up soaked (except for the quick dry hiking pants I thoughtfully gave her for Christmas), she had landed awkwardly on her wrist. Sprained, but not broken – upward and onward we would go! Strike two (but not out yet)!

Upward we trudged (well, I trudged, Valerie kind of sloshed), until we had to cross the stream one final time. This time, I crossed first with the thought that I would then help Valerie to the other side. I picked up a downed branch to use as a staff for balance as I crossed. And crossed I did – no problem! Valerie’s turn. This time the leash came off of her wrist before she made her way. If the dog was going to tug, Valerie was not going swimming again. I stood our staff upright and pushed it back to Valerie to aid in her crossing. What I hadn’t noticed was a sharp piece of broken twig where she would be catching the staff. Yup – it punctured her hand right in the palm as she caught the staff. Strike three! The good news - we were just about done the ascent; the bad - all we had to do was to come back down.

At the top of the trail, you have the option of returning the way you came (and on this day, that really was not an option), or descend via the fire road (a little longer and not as scenic, but a nice leisurely walk back to the parking lot). We chose the fire road.

We learned two final lessons that afternoon. I’ll spare you the details (for two reasons: 1. they’d embarrass me, and 2. they’d gross you out.).

The first? Let’s just say, that you should always go hiking well prepared for every “body” function and need, regardless of how long the hike is. These things include food, water, and toilet paper (especially t.p.).

The second? We had read that dryer sheets make a great insect repellent. And they do! Dryer sheets also feel like baby wipes that have dried out. If you run out of t.p., there may be a temptation to use baby wipes, which can be confused with dryer sheets. Neither one of them is a suitable replacement for t.p. Nuff’ said?

All in all, a beautiful hike on a beautiful trail on a beautiful day! Sometimes things happen though, just like in the rest of life, and you either let it detract from the good and get you down and angry, or you accept it as a part of the trip and push on. Just as in life, it’s all up to you on what you will focus on; you have an active choice to make. It’s always better to focus on the good! God has these two things to say about our thoughts:

Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life. Proverbs 4:23 (NCV)

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

It’s not so much “you are what you eat;” as it is “you are what you think.” I choose to think about the things of God. What will you choose to think on?

I Yam What I Yam

2009-04-14T19:23:00.001-04:00

For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that, my soul knows very well. Psalm 139:13-14

On our last post, I made a confession about my recent state of mind - frustrated and discouraged. I then went on to talk about woodpeckers of all things. Some might have been wondering - "What in the world is the connection?"

Well, here it is.

My frustration, generally, is directed at myself. I want so badly to be all that God wants me to be, and to do all that God wants me to do, but I know I fall so far short. The questions keep rolling - "Am I using the talents and abilities God has given me to their fullest?" "When I do use them, am I using them for His glory, or for mine?" "My efforts at one-on-one evangelism are pretty pathetic, Lord. How can I teach others when I'm not doing my part in this area?" These questions and their answers could fill some blog space on their own -- but not today.

The discouragement comes, usually, and I'm sure, unintentionally, from other Christians.

I've noticed that we seem to have moved into a period of Christianity, at least in America, where we measure success in our Christian lives by how "successful" we are in "ministry." Find "Your Best Life Now" while living a "Purpose Driven Life!" "Be all that you can be!" Or worse, to me anyway, is measuring your success financially. It's very easy to get discouraged when you don't seem to be able to "measure up" to everyone's expectations. Or, to what "they" say God's expectations are for your life.

This not a rant on Rick Warren or his book, The Purpose Driven Life. It's not really a rant on related teachings or their proponents. It's not the subject matter that I have a problem with - I truly believe that God has given us all unique talents and abilities to be used for His Kingdom - it's my own inability to do and inadequacy in doing, these things. I know, it sounds like I am expecting perfection of myself, but I don't really. I know that perfection is impossible to achieve. However, I also know that I could be doing much, much better.

It doesn't help when others around me are successful at what they've been called to do. That sounds like envy speaking, but that's not what it is. For example, I know several men in prison ministry; they love it and they are successful at it. I believe that God has a special place for ministry to widows and orphans (Psalm 68:5; James 1:27), and by extension, those who can't do for themselves or are oppressed. I think prison ministry is a very noble cause and it pleases God. I really am not interested in going into a prison to teach though. I also have no interest in going to a nursing home, again, as an example, and visiting. And that bothers me!

This is where God gave me the correlation to my own life: I had been focusing on everything that I am not, instead of what I am. I have been focusing on everyone else's expectations of what my life should look like, instead of what God says it should.

So what does God say He expects from us?

Is it that we should be wealthy? Not necessarily. I am a Christian; a follower of Jesus. What does the Bible say about Jesus and His wealth? He had none. In fact, He did not even have a place "to lay his head" (Matt. 8:20). In addition, most of the original 12 disciples were common men, fishermen to be exact, and were most certainly not wealthy. And they most definitely did not become rich after deciding to follow Jesus. So, while God does not say we shouldn't, or couldn't be wealthy, that is not His main goal for our lives.

So, what does God say we should do? Here are three, one Old Testament and two New Testament.

The first is found in Mark 12:30. Jesus said, "'And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment."

The second is found one verse later: "And the second, like it, is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

The final one is found in Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

These are things God wants from us. Love God and love those around us. He may have given you a call to minister to (love) millions, like a Billy Graham, or He may have called you to minister to (love) those in your immediate family - according to the most recent census, all 3.14 of you in a household.

So, these are things I should focus on. Not that I shouldn't continue to try to improve myself, but to focus on what it is that God has given me to focus on, and to stop trying to measure up to other people's expectations and standards for my life and to be who I am.

Like the unique woodpecker that does what woodpeckers do, and that other birds are not equipped to do. And, just as the other birds do what they do and not what the woodpecker does, so should we concentrate on what we have been uniquely called to do.

In the immortal words of Popeye, "I yam what I yam and that's all that I yam!"

Regarding Blind, Drain-Bamaged, Woodpeckers

2009-04-07T20:12:00.015-04:00

Then God said, "Let the waters abound with an abundance of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the face of the firmament of the heavens." God created great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded, according to their kind, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." So the evening and the morning were the fifth day. Gen. 1:20-23

I have a confession to make - I get easily discouraged and frustrated!

I was spending my quiet time in our hot tub on our deck last Wednesday morning, wrestling with those familiar emotions - "Mike, pity party of one" - when I just stopped to hear God's voice. Instead, I heard the loud cacophony of birds. A lot of birds. The more I listened, the more variety I heard. As I listened some more, I could identify the sound of a woodpecker in the distance.

Now I'm not a birder (I could probably visually identify less than a dozen different birds by name), so I have no idea what birds I was listening to or I would list them. They are not the point of this blog anyway. Well, not all of them.

I was trying to focus on that still, small voice of God and I was getting really irritated with all the noise. And that stupid woodpecker! The more I tried to tune it out, the more my mind seemed to focus on it instead. You've had that happen before; the speaker at the conference who has an annoying tic/gesture/saying that they just - keep -on - doing/saying. The more you tell yourself not to focus on it, the more you are drawn in. You can't take your eyes off it. You hear the offending phrase each and every time it's uttered: "um", "you know", "OK". And it drives you crazy. That's what the woodpecker was doing to me!

Then it hit me - that woodpecker was doing what woodpeckers have been designed to do! And it brought to mind several questions that made me say, "I wonder ..." It also drove home the difference in perspective between the evolutionists and creationists.

Here are the questions I had; I wonder if you share them. (That wasn't one of my original "I wonder" questions, but we can add it to the list).

1. How many woodpeckers decided slamming their heads into a tree might be a good way to grab dinner before they "evolved" the capacity to do so? Can you imagine the number of blind, brain damaged, broken-beaked woodpeckers running around.

2. How long had the woodpeckers' capacity to slam their heads into a tree to grab dinner "evolved" before the first woodpecker tried it? Again, after watching a few of it's fellow woodpeckers becoming blind, brain damaged and broken-beaked, what woodpecker decided they had the courage to try it again? Or the stupidity?

3. How many mama (insert bird type here) had to have the conversation with their young ones, "If Jr. Woodpecker decided to jump off a bridge, would you jump off too?", in order to keep their young 'uns from slamming their heads into a tree to grab dinner?

4. Of the necessary components, which incredible design "evolved" first: the brain structure that keeps the woodpecker from brain damage, or the musculature that acts as a shock absorber to keep the brain from sloshing around?

5. What were wood peckers called before woodpeckers could peck wood?

Doesn't it make sense when you think about it that the woodpecker was designed to do what woodpeckers are designed to do from the beginning? That's exactly what God says happened in Genesis 1 - "every winged bird according to its kind

The other birds would never, and should never, attempt to do what the woodpecker does! Where a beautiful bluebird would, at the very least get a headache from pounding it's head against a tree, God has formed the woodpecker with a variety of impressive structural features that enable it to do what it does. How many bluebirds do you suppose suffered before they decided they weren't meant to evolve the ability to peck trees?

Just wondering ...

Knowing

2009-03-29T08:45:00.003-04:00

I usually try to keep this space open to topics related to the Great OutDoors, whether it be a planned event, an interesting natural occurrence, or something that piqued my interest on one of our outings. Today, however, is different.

Valerie and I went to the movies last weekend and we watched a film I had really wanted to see: Knowing.

Now, I have never been a big Nicholas Cage fan, either as an actor (he's kind of "wooden"), or, for the most part, the movies he's chosen to be a part of. At least, until recently. I've enjoyed the National Treasure movies. Knowing looked like another film in that vein, and it was - sort of. In fact, it reminded me of the movie Signs in many ways.

There are a lot of Christian themes woven throughout. They are, in fact, essential to the story. I sat the entire movie trying to decide whether I liked what the filmmakers were doing, or if they were just accurate enough to be trouble; kind of like Satan in Genesis to Adam and Eve, "Did God really say ..."

This isn't meant to be a review, per se, but there are elements that stick out. I had no complaint with the content of the film, but for a film called Knowing, there is a lot in the movie that leaves you un-knowing. There are many signs in the movie, but where do they lead? Do they lead to a dead-end? Or, like Bruce in Bruce Almighty, seeing the signs, but not really seeing them, do I have to say that “I Saw the Sign, but it failed to open up my eyes”? While there are some things we will never be able to know (Is. 55:8-9), the things in this movie shouldn’t have been among them. What follows is a partial list of the things I am still in the dark on.

The biggest one is: What's the deal with the rocks? The filmmakers make a point of showing this rock being passed along (I won't share between whom, in case you haven't seen the movie yet). And yet, there appears to be no real significance to these rocks. When they finally get there, both Valerie and my reaction was, “That’s it?!”

Another thought was: What's the ultimate point of the list of numbers given to the little girl? What's the point of being told of future events if no one could do anything to stop, or alter them? Cage’s character tries to act on them, but he’s really limited by a lack of knowledge as to what they mean. In case you missed my earlier Ace of Base reference, here’s another, "Life is demanding Without understanding." Later in the movie, Cage’s character comes to a realization and makes a valid point: God’s prophecies never fail. If a prophecy fails, you can know it was not from God. So these initial prophecies are all leading up to the final one and because they have all come to pass, this last one can be trusted also. That is meant to be a comfort and a reassurance that God is indeed in control of events.

That seemed to be the dilemma in the first place, as Cage’s character struggled with life. Is there randomness in life and all of creation, or is there design, purpose and order. The events that transpire in the film argue for the latter. And that makes perfect sense because God, the designer of life, is a God of order and He gives purpose to everything.

The next thing I was unclear about: Are they angels or aliens? “Argh, not space ships! Why did they have to do spaceships?” That was my first thought. The filmmakers were faithful to the book of Ezekiel – sort of. Read Ezekiel 1 when you get a chance; I suppose you can see aliens and spaceships there if you wanted to. Though, as Captain Kirk asked in Star Trek: The Final Frontier (1989), “What need does God have for a Starship?” I mean, besides being omnipresent (everywhere, all the time), He can pretty much do what He wants since He is outside of the laws He created. The description of the beings described in Ezekiel really don’t resemble those of the film either. There again, the film’s angels more closely resemble angels as they are described in other places in the Bible.

The final piece I felt should have been clear, but that I left not knowing: How did Cage’s character “know” he would see everyone else again? And similar: Who, exactly, was going to be safely reunited after the final event? If the answer to that one was, “Everyone,” there’s a big problem.

The movie seemed to indicate that that was the case – all dogs go to heaven (well, all people in this case). That simply isn’t the case and that’s one fact I do know (and Cage’s character could actually know also; even though he knew very little else)! The Bible is quite clear about that one: it’s only by faith in the substitutionary death of Jesus for your sins, that you get into the final scene!

And It Was Night (2)

2009-03-16T11:37:00.002-04:00

So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" Matt. 14: 29-30

OK, we were talking about night and darkness and now we’re climbing out of a boat with Peter in a storm, what happened? Don’t be impatient, I’m getting there.

I was visiting my in-laws on Sunday and as I pulled in their driveway, I saw two young seedlings with blooms starting. Tiny buds were popping out all over that little tree, top to bottom. Is it a coincidence that this began after the beginning of spring? The days have passed the point where darkness rules and every day from now till winter, the days increase in the length of time it is light. The sun brings revival to dormant bulbs, lawns, and trees.

As we talked about, we have access to a life giving light source also. One that is guaranteed to bring revival to the soul – Jesus Christ. While there are many manifestations of “darkness” in our lives, it still comes down to one root cause and one cure.

Look back at our beginning verse. Peter was walking on water! Incredible! That is, until he took his eyes off of Jesus and started to look at the situation surrounding him.

That’s the root cause of our “darkness,” our sinking, also – wandering and taking our eyes from Jesus. You know you’ve done it; we all have. We get busy, we neglect our praying, we neglect our reading, we neglect our praising, and we neglect acknowledging and giving thanks for the blessings in our lives.

So how do we overcome the darkness and get back to the light? The answer is very simple; the “doing” is the challenge: turn on the light! We have access to the light because God has given us access: “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2Cor 4:6) There is hope in Jesus in every time of darkness. This is His promise: (Luke 1:79) “To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." Even though we have this access, we must do something to “turn it on.”

So, here are the steps to get back into the Son-light:

1. Listen for God’s voice. God says to “be still and know that I am God.” This requires some effort on our part. 1Kings 19:11-12 says, “Then He said, ‘Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.’ And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.” A lot of our problems are that we are not being still and listening for that quiet voice, but allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by the “loud” things in our lives.

Read our Bibles! It is God’s Word after all.

2. Seek Him in every situation. He’s there; it’s a matter of you using your spiritual eyes to see Him. He’s promised to never leave nor forsake us, so it makes sense that he’s always there, doesn’t it? He also tells, plainly, that if we seek Him, we will find Him.

3. Praise Him in every situation. There is nothing in your life that happens that he’s not aware of – nothing! We need to offer praise even the things that we wouldn’t ordinarily think of as “good” things. He has promised to work everything to the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

4. Give thanksgiving in every circumstance. We are commanded to do so (1Thes. 5:18; Col. 3:17), but in doing so, we are reminded of Who God is and what He has done for us. We deserve the death penalty and He has given life. I believe that alone deserves gratitude, don’t you?

We are told, in Ephesians 5:8, to “walk as children of light.” There is only one way to do so, we must stay plugged in to the source of light.

And It Was Night

2009-03-03T14:20:00.002-05:00

“…he (Judas Iscariot) then went out immediately. And it was night." John 13:30

This summer, we will be hiking to the bottom of Grand Canyon. One of the challenges of this hike is the vast temperature differential between day and night. Daytime temps can easily hit 100*F or higher, while night time temps dip to the mid 60’s. This type of temperature swing is very common in desert areas. If you’ve ever experienced these 30-40 degree swings, you’ll know why they pose such difficulties. Your body adapts to the extreme heat of the day, and then, at night even normally reasonable temperatures feel extremely cold to your body.

Night-time also brings other problems with it, and not just in the desert. In the wilderness, there are the nocturnal hunters, whose night vision far surpasses our own (lions, tigers and bears – Oh my!). In the city, there are other types of “hunters” looking for easy prey under the cover of darkness. “People love the darkness because their deeds are evil.” (John 3:19)

It is also extremely easy to become disoriented in the darkness. Without the daylight, landmarks are obscured, so navigation is made more difficult and any obstructions or hazards are that much more difficult to see. It is so important to have a light of some kind, lantern or flashlight, when you go hiking. You just never know when, or if, you will run into trouble and need to find your way in the dark.

We find the same problems in every other facet of our lives also. Let me explain.

The first passage quoted above is referencing what is known as the Last Supper. Jesus, Judas and the rest of the apostles are enjoying their final meal together. Judas was a man with problems (aren’t we all), but he was not without hope of God’s grace and forgiveness – yet. As long as he was in the presence of Jesus, he had that light. So it is with us - as long as we walk in Jesus’ presence, we have access to that same light.

You see, Jesus is THE light that we need to take with us. He is the never-ending source, constant stream of light for our lives. John 8:12 says, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." Also, Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Judas’ leaving was literal, as was the darkness. It was also symbolic spiritually. As long as we are with Jesus, we are in the light. When we leave his presence we are in the darkness. When Judas got up to leave, he was making a decision. The decision was to leave the presence of Jesus and when he did so, he went out into “the night.” Any time we step out from Jesus' presence we are, in effect, leaving the light for the darkness.

There are many ways "the night," or the darkness of life, is manifested in our lives. We are in darkness because of:

1. blindness – God has promised His children, those who have believed in Jesus as their Savior, a life of abundance. But, because of our spiritual blindness, we can’t see the light. John 1:4-5 says, “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” We are a prisoner to this blindness, but that is why Jesus came to Earth – to rescue us from that prison (“To open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house” - Isaiah 42:7), and to restore our “sight” ("The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed” - Luke 4:18).

2. disobedience/guilt – Think back to the story of Adam and Eve. They were only told not to do one thing. And, like any good child, that is the one thing they did! And like any good child, they felt guilty about what they had done. When I was a kid, when I knew I had done something wrong, I ran and hid from my mom for as long as I could. I know most of us are no different. Neither were Adam and Eve – “And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. Then the LORD God called to Adam and said to him, "Where are you?" So he said, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself."

3. Weariness/circumstances – This point is illustrated by the prophet Elijah. He had just seen God whip all of the false prophets of the false god Baal in a contest and now he was discouraged because the reigning king of Israel was out to get him. We find him having a swell pity party in 1Kings 19:4, “But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, "It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!"

We’ve all found ourselves in these circumstances at one time or another. The darkness just seems so gloomy and heavy and there seems to be no escape from it. But there is a common cause and a way of escape. We’ll find out what it is --- next time.

Comet Lulin

2009-02-24T13:07:00.007-05:00

Then God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years; and let them be for lights in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth"; and it was so. Then God made two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also. God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. So the evening and the morning were the fourth day. Genesis 1:14 - 19

Comet Lulin blew through town last night and I got to see it.

Well, it didn't exactly come to town, it was "in the neighborhood." More specifically, it was 38 million miles away, but what's 38 million miles between friends.

February 24th marked the closest it will have come to our part of the universe. In fact, scientists believe this is it's first trip our way. Of course, they can't really say that for sure, since it could have swung by once or twice before it was observed. What's more, they really don't know where it's heading now.

Astronomers have been tracking Lulin since it was "discovered" in 2007, by a 19 year old Chinaman named Quanzhi Ye.

As I strained to see Lulin ( I was in Fairfax, VA and city lights are not conducive to watching objects 38 million miles away), I had a few thoughts go through my mind. For your reading pleasure, here they are:

1. Scientists may have only "discovered" Lulin in 2007, but God has known where it was the whole time. This is remarkable in itself because -

2. Did I mention that at it's closest it was 38 million miles away? To you and I, that is a mind numbing distance. I have to stop and pee and stretch my legs when I drive to Myrtle Beach. That, to me, is a long drive - and it's only about 8 hours.

To God 38 million miles is really insignificant. It may as well be 38 feet. He not only keeps track of this single comet in that vast amount of space, He keeps track of everyone of those bright shiny objects "up there" and He knows every one of them by name! Not just the really cool ones like Betelgeuse, but the ones we haven't even named "down here." There are so many, they've been given numbers to identify them. Next time you go to the DMV and draw "D-89," think about that.

3. The universe has physical and chemical laws that it obeys. Scientists can track the orbits of planets and comets and could tell us with certainty in 2007 that Lulin would not only NOT collide with earth, thereby NOT literally "blowing through town," but that it's closest approach would be on 2/24/09 at 38 million miles. Pretty impressive, eh? And made possible because the God who created those celestial objects on day 4 of the creation week also created the physical and chemical laws that made those observations possible.

4. When I think about the sheer immensity of it all, it gives me pause. It makes me stop and think of the awesomeness of God. Of His power. Of His authority. Of His enormity. And that's the point of it: "The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard." (Psalm 19:1-3)

Like Job, when we consider ourselves compared to God, we are rather pathetic. Compare our knowledge with His. Compare our achievements with His. Compare our power with His. Compare our abilities with His. And yet, we want to tell Him how things should be? We complain to Him about the way things are? Really?! Start in Job 37 and see what God has to say.

5. But most importantly, the same God that created and maintains the heavens, the all powerful, all knowing, who lacks for nothing because He created and owns everything, cares for you and I. "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?" (Psalm 8:3-4)

He cares more about us than any other aspect of His creation (Matt. 6:26; Luke 12:6-7). He cares about every aspect of our lives (Matt. 6:31-32). He cares about everyone of us (John 3:16).

Why is that? Why would He be mindful of us? What have we done to deserve any more attention than, for example, the comet Lulin? The answer is - nothing. We have done nothing, and can't give anything, to deserve the attention. God gives it simply because He loves us. We are the crown jewels of His creation. And what does He ask of us? Our love. Our devotion. Our obedience.

To me, it seems a small price to pay, a small gift to give, to One so loving, so kind, and so awesome. I hope you think so, too.

What's In A Name?

2009-02-17T23:56:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought about names, their origins, and what, if anything, they mean?

Biblical names were full of meaning. Abram, a very wealthy patriarch, literally meant “high father.” After promising Abram that he would be the father of a great multitude, God changed his name to Abraham which means, oddly enough, “father of a great multitude.” Isaac (laughter) and Ishmael (God that hears), among others, were named after a specific event occurred. Most, if not all, had names that had meaning in and of themselves. Examples would be Abiah (the Lord is my father), Joshua (a deliverer), and Samuel (heard of God).

In the English language names derived from occupations (Miller, Smith, Cooper) and from relationships (example: "Richard’s son" became Richardson).

Names, for individuals and for business, convey a certain image behind the name. Try it. Think of the name Bill Gates, for example. What comes to mind? Money? Fame? Philanthropy? Microsoft? Some image comes to mind. The Bible says it this way, “A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” (Proverbs 22:1)

Businesses get in the act, too. Dollar upon dollar is spent on name selection and name promotion. Big money is spent for name repair and big money is spent to keep a name relevant or to more closely identify what the product does. Who’s familiar with the current ad campaign to change Electrasol to Finish?

Maybe you’re familiar with the origins of two widely known, very popular brand names, Kleenex and Bounty?

Kleenex began as a small, bib-like cloth article. At the end of a meal, it was said that everyone had “clean necks,” hence the name for the bib, Clean Necks; later shortened and modernized to Kleenex.

Who knew that Bounty and Jesse James are historically linked? Yes way! Jesse, shortly after one of his infamous train robberies was in a wash room cleaning up. There were no towels available, but there was an old newspaper lying close by. Jesse grabbed the “paper towel” and dried his head and face. At the same moment Jesse was emerging from the washroom, one of his gang members was coming through the front door with a "Wanted" poster shouting, “There’s a bounty on your head.” Much like the large piece of newspaper plastered to Jesse’s head, the name stuck to the “paper towel” – Bounty.

OK, you got me, the last two are completely bogus, but the point remains valid. Names mean something; always have, always will.

That brings me to the name of this ministry, Great OutDoor Endeavors. “You mean, you meant to do that with 'OutDoor?'” Yeah, I did.

On the surface, our goal is to get people outside of our man-made environments. We live indoors. We drive in our cars to jobs, to stores, and to our friends houses - where we visit inside. Rarely do we spend any time outdoors, and when we do, we barely notice what's going on around us.

God said all of creation is speaking of His glory and that it gives knowledge of Him. We need to take the time to look up at the stars and to contemplate what they say about God and His power. When we look out over the Grand Canyon, we can be reminded of God's ability to inspire awe in, and through, His creation. Or, we can marvel at the intricacies of flight that He's enabled in birds & butterflies. Our desire is to put people in a place to hear creation speaking and understand what it is saying about God. And to hear what God is saying to us through creation.

Like the old Magic Eye (you know - the ones where if you changed your eye's focus you could see a picture-within-a-picture) pictures, there is more to our name than meets the eye. Look alittle deeper.

If you've received e-mail from us you will see that our name is sometimes shortened to GOD Endeavors. There are many, many endeavors we could undertake. There are many, many "fun" things we could do. There are many, many activities we could lead that make us look good or that "pad our pockets." That's not what we desire, however. In the end, it is our desire to do whatever it is that God leads us to do. It is also our strong desire to honor God in whatever we attempt. We want to undertake God endeavors.

So, as you look at our upcoming events know this: we seek only to have God glorified in what we do and to connect people to Him through our activities. It is our desire that God show Himself in these activities and to bless our efforts. Our one driving thought is this: If God isn't in it, it ain't worth doing!

Leviticus & Valentine's Day

2009-02-11T12:40:00.000-05:00

"If you love Me, obey My commandments." John 14:15

I'm in the process of reading through the Bible this year in chronological order. Currently, I'm working my way through the ever entertaining book of Leviticus; chapters 8 -10 if you care to know.

In times past I've wondered exactly what it was that God wanted me to learn as I read about the number of bulls that had to be sacrificed for each particular offering and which parts had to be burned, which could be eaten and which had to be taken outside the camp to be disposed of. Don't get me wrong, it's all very fascinating and not the least bit sleep inducing (and that was not the least bit facetious), but in the seemingly endless blur of detail there did not appear to be a lesson to be learned for the modern reader.

Oh sure, I know that the Old Testament is a "picture" of the New, and that all the sacrificing of only perfect animals without blemish is a picture of Jesus's, God's perfect lamb, sacrifice for us. I get that.

I get the fact that it shows God has certain requirements for us to be his priesthood (1Peter 2:9). Just as they had purifying rituals to go through, I think we take too cavalierly our own walk with God. Yes, He is a friend of sinners and He is love, but He is also a holy and just God. As Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons learned then, God is still a consuming fire. We need to remember that nothing unholy comes into God's presence. Thank God for the covering of Jesus!

As I was reading through this morning though, I was struck by one particular phrase. In chapter 8 alone, this phrase appears 6 times. I believe that this phrase explains the close relationship that Moses had with God. After all, God says that He spoke with Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend (Ex. 33:11). I believe this phrase is also the key to our, yours and mine, relationship to God, as well as with others. What's the phrase? "... just as the Lord had commanded him."

Moses was careful to do what the Lord asked of him. Moses' obedience was an act of love.

Jesus says that's how we also can show love - through our obedience (John 14:15 for those with short attention spans). What is "obedience?" It's in the "doing."

I suppose it's because Valentine's Day is near, but it strikes me that this is not just a way to show love to God, but to everyone in our lives.

Often, it's an easy pattern to fall into - to say we love, but to do nothing that shows that love. In fact, our actions sometimes prove otherwise. That has been the pattern of people since nearly the beginning. It happens in our relationships with one another and it happens in our relationship to God. God Himself said, "These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me."

Sometimes the "doing" is in the mundane tasks we all face each and every day. Aside from the fact that God tells us to do everything as if it were for Him (Col. 3:23), we should "do" simply because it's a way to show love to those afffected by our lives and actions. Husbands - do the dishes once in a while; wives - bring him a snack and a drink while he watches the ballgame. You get the idea.

We should also "do" regardless of whether the one we love is "doing," or not doing, in return. If she doesn't respond to your dish washing, do it again anyway. If he doesn't thank you for the grub, bring hot wings next time. How often has God done something for you that you failed to thank Him for? In fact, for us it's worse. God loved us before we knew Him, in fact, He loved us while we were His enemies. Hopefully you don't view your spouse as your enemy, but even if you do, need I remind you that we are to love as Christ loved? That's what I thought - OUCH! Remember "love your neighbor as yourself?" Do you have a closer neighbor than your spouse?

One final thought: Jesus said that "Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." (Matt6:21) Why not try investing your treasures on the One, and the ones, that you say you love? Let them feel the worth you say they hold in your heart. If the love has grown cold, investing your treasures in that love is a sure way to get your heart to follow. You have God's Word on it!

Do your words and your deeds match?

Myths, Legends and Noah's Ark

2009-02-03T14:24:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine recently sent an e-mail about a man in the Netherlands who had built a model of Noah's Ark. It measures 150 cubits long, 30 cubits high and 20 cubits wide. A cubit is roughly 18 inches making the equivalent measurement 225 ft x 45 ft x 39 ft. That's two-thirds the length of a football field and as high as a three-story house.

As impressive as those dimensions are, it is only a scale model. The actual size is much larger. The Bible records the dimensions God gave Noah in Genesis 6:15: "The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits (450'), its width fifty cubits (75'), and its height thirty cubits (45')." Put in a modern visual context, that is as large as a modern oil tanker. It would have been able to hold 522 modern railroad storage cars! Do you want a perspective on that figure? Next time you are stuck at a railroad crossing - waiting, waiting, waiting - count the number of cars. Usually, you will have to wait for roughly 100 cars to pass. Multiply that number by 5 and that's what could have been loaded on the Ark.

There have been critics who have said that Noah's Ark could not have floated or survived the rigors of the sea. They contend that it would have been prone to capsizing. This would not have been a placid sea by any means. Remember, the "fountains of the deep" of Genesis 7:11 "erupted" (NLT) or "burst forth" (NIV). This would have caused furious, rolling waters.

Now, if God in His wisdom, has put dimensions in His Word, and He says His Word is true (119:160), I would expect that every part is accurate. The ancients, who were not able to build or test a ship of this size, had to take these dimensions on faith. Today, computer models show that the size and shape of the Ark would have been ideal for it's mission. Good thing for God, eh?

One of the quotes from the e-mail I received, was from a Mary Louise Starosciak. She said, "It's past comprehension. I knew the story of Noah, but I had no idea the boat would have been so big!"

As with most people I talk to, there seems to be this picture of the "bathtub" version of Noah's Ark in most people's minds. You know: cute little rounded boat that can barely stay upright and with all the animals sticking their heads out the windows. I wonder: if she, like many people, are familiar with the "story" of Noah's Ark, why do they have such a misconception of what it would have looked like?

If you lean to the "right," it's easy to blame it on the "liberal, left-leaning news media." There must be a conspiracy!

If you lean to the "left," it has to be George W. Bush's fault. Why not? Everything else that's wrong is!

Frankly, I blame the "church." We have a responsibility to teach God's Word. We have a responsibility to show that it can be defended and that it is accurate. In many ways, we have failed miserably. If something as easy as Noah's Ark is not taught correctly, the whole of God's Word is subject to people's "interpretation." If Noah's Ark is an allegory, why is Christ's virgin birth and His resurrection also not allegorical.

Maybe that helps explain why so many "churched" people think there are so many ways to Heaven or that God will let everyone in - "surely God is love and will not keep anyone out of Heaven or judge them!" - they've been taught to think that the Bible is open to interpretation. Or worse, they haven't been taught the whole counsell of God.

Maybe they have not been taught the reason for the flood in the first place: "And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: they ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed." Luke 17:26-30.

God IS love and He is all inclusive, He desires that none should perish. It's really quite simple: the wages of sin is death, we all have sinned, we all desreve the death penalty. But God has made a way, a "lifeboat", for all of us to escape that penalty. The question is, "Will you get in the boat?" It's available to everyone: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17 In even plainer language: "He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." John 3:36

Jesus is our Ark! Won't you "climb in" to escape the coming "flood" of judgment? God has provided the way, just as He did in Noah's day. It's your choice whether to get on board ------or not.

Here is a link if you'd like to see a story on the scale model Ark:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4853890.stm

Whitewater Adventures 2

2009-01-26T13:26:00.004-05:00

So anyway, it occurs to me that life is a lot like whitewater rafting in a couple of ways.

The first is this: life is full of ups and downs, periods of calm and periods of intense action, thrills and narrow escapes. The best part about the harrowing, life and limb parts in rafting, as in life, is that they never last. There are times, just as in my kayak, when you get stuck between two rocks (no jokes about being stuck between a rock and a hard place, please) and you simply have to stay calm and keep on working.

The second point is this: just as with my kayak being more difficult to navigate by myself than with a guide, life is like that also. For a Christian, it’s good to know that I have a guide. He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5); He’s with me in the calm and in the rapids. I don’t have to work alone. Check out these promises He’s made to me (they could be yours also): He said his grace is sufficient enough to get me through the tough times (2Cor. 12:9), He’s said that even though I’m in danger of being killed, I don’t have to fear anything because He is with me (Psalm 23:4), and He’s reminded me that if He is on my side, I don’t have to fear anyone or anything (Romans 8:31). There are many, many more. The point is this though, He never said there wouldn’t be “rapids”, but He did promise to be there in the midst of those “rapids.” In fact, His own disciples found that out first hand (Mark 4). They actually found that He could guide them through the rapids, He controlled the rapids.

Well, you might ask, if He controls the rapids, why not just eliminate them altogether, or at the very least, guide you around them? Good questions with good answers.

One recent morning, while enjoying my morning quiet time, I read a quote attributed to Shirley Dobson, Focus on the Family founder James Dobson’s wife. She wrote, “It’s a bit like river rafting with an experienced guide. You may begin to panic when the guide steers you straight into a steep waterfall, especially if another course appears much safer. Yet, after you’ve emerged from the swirling depths and wiped the spray from your eyes, you see that just beyond the seemingly “safe” route was a series of jagged rocks. Your guide knew what he was doing after all.”

You see, He knows the beginning and the end. He knows where the rocks are. Just as I can’t see much of the river from my vantage point in my kayak, I can’t see much beyond the next bend in my life. How many 1, 5, & 10 year plans have I made in my life only to be nowhere near the original destination when I got to the end of those plans? I don’t control much in life I’m afraid. God does, though. He knows where it’s better to go through the rapids to get to the calm, rather than run through the calm only to be grounded on the sandbar or the jagged rocks just below the waters surface.

The “rapids” also teach us something about ourselves, don’t they? In my kayak, I’ve learned exactly what I (and my kayak) can and can’t do. I’ve learned when NOT to try to turn (to avoid becoming a fiberglass and flesh dam). I’ve learned when my own strength is not enough to maneuver and when I have to rely on the river’s current. They’ve taught me to remain calm and think when things aren’t necessarily going smoothly; anger and panic won’t keep your kayak from flooding.
Don’t the “rapids of our lives do much the same thing? They teach us what we’re made of. They teach us that we have to rely on others sometimes. They teach us that some things never have been in our control and never will be. They make us stronger - if we let them.

In the end, hopefully they teach us to echo the Apostle Paul when he said, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

Next post: Noah's Ark

Whitewater Adventures

2009-01-20T11:33:00.001-05:00

I’ve had the opportunity to go whitewater rafting three times now, and I can honestly say – it’s a blast! Alternating between periods of calm, where you can jump out of the boat and refresh yourself in the cool river water, and the heart pounding excitement of the roaring, rushing river, it’s both exhilarating and calming.

I know that two factors make a world of difference in my enjoyment of the trip. One is the water level. If your heart can’t handle a lot of adrenaline, go when the water level is down. Basically, it’s an “in-boat” tubing trip. The water is placid and the trip is leisurely. If you want excitement, go after some rains, or if it’s a controlled river, go when the waters are released. In this case, hold on for dear life and, for goodness sakes (in addition to your well being), listen to the river guide.

I’ve also recently begun to run my kayak through the rapids. So far, I’ve only done class 2 rapids. I’m feeling confident enough in my abilities that soon I will venture out into the class 3’s. The rush is even greater in my kayak than it is in the raft; perhaps because I’m in charge in my kayak. I either make it or I don’t. There is no one else to rely on.

One problem I’ve noticed in my kayak, and maybe it gets easier with more experience, but because I’m basically at water level, trying to read the signs of the river, especially for any distance, is rather difficult. In fact, my first time out, I mis-read some rocks, tried to correct at the last moment (a big no-no, as I’ve discovered), and went sideways between two large protruding rocks. Unfortunately, these rocks were not wider than my sideways kayak and I got solidly wedged between them. The more I struggled to free myself, the more I would dip into the oncoming waters and the more I filled with water. Things were not looking that great. I finally freed myself, with considerable effort, and my water-filled, very sluggish kayak made it to the next calm spot where I was able to bail out most of the water. My brother wasn’t so lucky on his first trip out, but that’s another story …

I’m thrilled to be able to say that this year Great OutDoors Endeavors will be taking at least two kayaking trips down the Rappahannock River. We would be delighted to have you join us on either, or both, of these trips. In addition, there is a possibility of a whitewater rafting trip on the New River in West Virginia. Unfortunately, I’m like the rest of you and have a “real” job to work around, so we’ll do our best to fit that trip in. Stay tuned and check in to our web-site under upcoming events, to find these trips.

All of this leads me (as you knew it was going to, if you’ve been reading any of my posts) to a point about guides and life.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to read the next post for my amazing insight. ;-)

Till then – God bless …

Be Still and Know

2009-01-06T20:15:00.005-05:00

Job 37:14 "Give ear to this, O Job, and keep quiet in your place; and take note of the wonders worked by God."

How often do we really take the time to just slow down and reflect on the wonders around us? We are constantly surrounded by a whirring, humming world of sounds and distraction. We spend most of our time indoors. We wake in the morning in our warm, comfy beds, in our warm comfy homes. We climb in our warm, comfy cars to go to our warm, comfy office/store/shop. Then, we turn around and return in our warm comfy cars to our warm, comfy homes to start the routine again the next day.

When was the last time you paused, however briefly, on the walk from your car to your house and just looked up at the starts? Have you ever wondered at the sheer enormity of the heavens? I know, when I just glance at the canopy of stars that cover us, it's easy to just see a two dimensional sky. It's easy to forget the shear immensity of what I'm looking at. The fact that I am unable to count, on a clear night, every star in the sky. Or the fact that it is not simply a two dimensional painting, but that it has a third dimension, depth, that is measured in hundreds of thousands of light years. Or have you ever considered the physical laws the universe adheres to that make it possible for scientists to predict the rising and setting of the sun, the ability to tell us when the next eclipse will be, or the great meteor shower display will be. Those laws are there because there is a God of creation, a God of order, who placed them there. He controls all by the word of His mouth.

The writer of Psalm 19 knew. He knew that if you need to hear from God, one of the best things to do is to study His handiwork: The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world.

Job, in the midst of his epic time of trial, had to be reminded by God that there were things bigger than Job and that there was Someone bigger in charge. The Message puts it this way: "Job, are you listening? Have you noticed all this? Stop in your tracks! Take in God's miracle-wonders! Do you have any idea how God does it all, how he makes bright lightning from dark storms, how he piles up the cumulus clouds— all these miracle-wonders of a perfect Mind?Why, you don't even know how to keep cool on a sweltering hot day, so how could you even dream of making a dent in that hot-tin-roof sky?"

There are so many wonders we pass by and never take the time to look at. We are in a hurry to get to work, to get to the store, to get to our next appointment. We rush to and fro and never allow any kind of relationship to develop between ourselves and the God who created us for fellowship with Him.

What are some other "miracle-wonders" that God has performed/created that we never take notice of? Personally, I see them all around me. The computer I'm typing on, for example. Sure, I know that God did not reach down, touch the dirt and there was a computer there. But, what about the intellect given to the folks who designed the thing? God given intellect! And the physical laws in place that allow this computer to work the same way every time I fire it up? God ordained! How about when you look in the mirror? What do you see? Or, how about this question instead - How do you see? The eye is an engineering feat in itself and yet we take it for granted. What, you say - it evolved that way? Do you realize how many things had to happen in order to have the seeing eye "evolve"? The answer is overwhelming, mathematically, that it didn't happen, but if you persist, I'll leave you to your own "faith" that it did. How about the whole ecological cycle and the balance it needs to survive, thrive and maintain life? Do you really think it arose by chance? The circumstances have to be so precise in order to support life as we know it, I just don't see how anyone can not attribute it to God. Somehow, there are though; I guess we'll never understand each other ...

I guess my encouragement this week is this: like Job, I ask you to slow down and look around. Marvel in God's handiwork. Let Him amaze you. If you have a hard time slowing down on your own, come join us on a hike. It's so much easier to do things when you have a group to encourage you. If you're saying, "I can slow down, but I just have a hard time knowing what to look for or what it means." Come join us on a hike. Someone is sure to have been moved by something God has done and would be more than willing to share what they delight in. If you have a hard time feeling like there is any hope, come join us on a hike. It's nice to be reminded that even though we "don't even know how to stay cool on a sweltering hot day," there is One who controls the skies and everything in them ...

Carry Your Own Burden!

2009-01-03T14:55:00.007-05:00

While doing some research in the planning of our upcoming trip to Arizona, I came across a bit of information that made me ask, "Are you kidding me?" It's not that it was that unbelievable really, it's just that I hadn't really thought about it before and it sort of took me by surprise. Let's see if you're reaction is the same as mine was.

Did you know: when you camp in the Grand Canyon and you have to "go", you know - have a (there's really no polite way to say this) bowel movement, that when you are finished you have to tote your own waste paper out with you. Seriously!

Now was I right? That's not something you would normally have cross your mind, but it makes perfect sense. There are no modern facilities out in the wild and when you think of the shear volume of people who visit, it makes sense that these things would, well, pile up after awhile.

After each, um, session, the paper will have to be sealed in a re-seal-able, plastic storage bag. We are going to have 8 people hiking and camping and I guarantee you that each person will be responsible for carrying their own bag out with them. Newsflash to those going, I will help carry just about everything else down into the Canyon - tents, sleeping bags, food - but I will NOT be helping to bear that particular burden. A guy's got to draw a line somewhere - this one is mine.

In the same way, the Bible makes it clear we are to help one another in some areas, but we are also to pull our own weight in others. Galatians 6:2 states, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." We then read, in Galatians 6:5, " For each one shall bear his own load." Contradiction? Not really.

First, we have to understand what "burden" is being referred to. The Greek word here is translated "weight". This would be the "heavy" part of our Christian walk, the part that we are able to carry for a short time, but, ultimately, is able to crush us. The sins and temptations we struggle with and sometimes overwhelm us are a good example. We are told to help one another carry these causes of sadness and defeated-ness, to help our fellow traveler to carry on and not be crushed by the failure/temptation/trials/afflictions/whatever negative, potentially debilitating feeling is present. Not to condone any wrongdoing, but to sympathize with a brother or sister who has fallen and needs help getting back up. Remember the pitiful cry of the woman in the commercial, "I've fallen and I can't get up!" We don't ever want a fellow Christ follower to be in that position. By fulfilling this action we "fulfill the law of Christ." Remember on which two commandments "hang all the Law and the Prophets; in particular the second one?" Here's a hint: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." When you fail, do you want to be beaten down, castigated, or ostracized, or do you want to be restored in a "spirit of gentleness". (Gal. 6:1) This is the "tent, sleeping bag and food" of our hike. It's the stuff that weighs us down and we would rather not have to carry, but it's a necessary part of the trip - for all of us.

The other load, in verse 5, is ours alone to bear. In fact, that's what the Greek word means - a load. It's a load that, while uncomfortable, is able to be carried by each one of us. Every one of us will give an account for our own actions, thoughts and words. How did you respond to that temptation? Did you obey when you felt the Spirit prompt you? Remember Christ's and Peter's conversation in John 21:21-22? This is our hikers full re-sealable bag.

Here's an example to help clarify:
Say a good, upstanding, normally above-reproach-righteousness, man fails to heed the warnings of Proverbs 7 and falls prey to seduction. Afterward, he knows he failed and is being crushed by the weight of the failure. Like it or not, we are called to restore this one to a right relationship, with love and without malice and condemnation, with God and the fellowship of believers. This is carrying his "burden."
At the same time, the knowledge of that failure never goes away. Sure, he can know he's forgiven, but that knowledge is always there. He will always carry his "load."

So fellow hikers, know this - I can, and will, always be available to help you carry your "burden," but you're on your own when it comes to bearing your "load." In fact, I wouldn't carry that one if you paid me ...

New Beginnings

2008-12-30T11:13:00.002-05:00

Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." Revelation 21:5

In two days we will celebrate and usher in a new year. In so many ways, nothing changes. I will wake up on Friday and go to the same job I’ve gone to for the past 20 years. I will owe taxes again this year, I will dwell in the same residence, I will be married to the same great wife, and I will drive the same cars – one of them having the same need of new brake rotors that it has had for awhile now.

But what the New Year does do for us is to allow us to take stock of where we are, to re-evaluate, and to commit to making some changes. Not that we can’t do this at any time, but the New Year just seems to lend itself to that. It’s like a natural trigger mechanism in our wiring.

On a personal level, I have four things I will be seeking to accomplish.
1. To better fulfill the Great Commission. I admit it; I am really weak on personal evangelism. I do OK in group settings with some type of a “program,” but to simply share my faith with someone off the street? It rarely happens.
2. To better fulfill the Great Commandment: “love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matt. 22:37) This one can be accomplished in a variety of ways. The two I’ve chosen for this year round out my list of 4.
3. To be a Micah 6:8 man. “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” (Emphasis mine.)
4. To strive for utmost integrity in everything I do. I know that my life is a reflection of Christ in me. If I am not living with utmost integrity, if I am not striving to “be holy as I am holy” (Leviticus 19:2), what statement does that make?

For Great OutDoor Endeavors, that means some exciting new opportunities. We are planning a full schedule that includes a wide variety of diverse activities. We will be making overnight canoe/kayak camping trips, as well as some day trips. We will be watching the stars. We will be hiking. We will be camping. If time and opportunity allows, we will be making another trip to the Creation Museum. And of course, we will be making our long awaited trip to Arizona this summer. Keep your antennae up, and watch for some great chances to Meet Your Maker.

Of course, God doesn’t have to wait for the New Year to fulfill His promise, quoted above. That will be the subject of my next post. I hope, and pray, that your Christmas was merry, and that your New Year will be prosperous and happy. Most of all, I pray that you will put some thought, and effort, into making some “new things.”

God bless!

Real Love

2008-12-17T13:50:00.008-05:00

Scripture records the story of a king, in the Old Testament book of Daniel, by the name of Nebuchadnezzar. He was a powerful king, in the most powerful country on Earth at the time - Babylon. The problem was, he knew it. Instead of glorifying God for his success and position, he took credit himself; Dan. 4:30 is a good illustration: " The king spoke, saying, 'Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?'"

Because he failed to give glory to God, he was warned in a dream that he would be driven mad: They shall drive you from men, your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make you eat grass like oxen. They shall wet you with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over you, till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses. Dan. 4:25

He was driven from his palace, and all of the comforts, privileges, and authority, that come from royalty, to live with the wild beasts of the field. "That very hour the word was fulfilled concerning Nebuchadnezzar; he was driven from men and ate grass like oxen; his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair had grown like eagles' feathers and his nails like birds' claws." Dan. 4:33. He crawled on all fours, in the dirt and mud, among the waste from the animals. He slept and woke outdoors, under the stars. His hair and nails grew long and unkempt, like a wild animal.

He did this because he was driven insane. Really, would anyone do this if they weren't?

Well, Scripture records the story of another King. He left the most glorious of Estates, one beyond imagination. He, too, left all of the comforts, privileges, and authority, that comes with royalty, to live with "beasts". The beasts He came to live with are so unclean, the essence of who they are is compared to as "filthy rags," and are said to be infected and impure with a deadly disease. (Is. 64:6)

The difference between the two kings? The latter King chose to leave His kingdom because of His great love for the beasts.

You see, the King is Jesus. The "beasts" He came to live among? You and I! The deadly disease we are infected with? Sin. Without this King's intervention, we are "dead men walking". We would already be dead, it would simply be a matter a of time before the results showed! We would have no hope of everlasting life with this King.

But we do have hope! That's why we celebrate Christmas! It's the story of this great King coming to dwell with men! It's the story of real love.

"This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins." 1John 4:10 (NLT)

Though the sacrifice comes as an adult Jesus being crucified, the Christmas story tells of the baby Jesus stepping into our world. The amazing thing about this act of love is that it occurs while we are the enemy of God. (Romans 5:10) It's an amazing thing, an act of heroism, when someone gives their life for a friend. John 15:13 says there is no greater gift than for a man to lay down his life for his friends. Who am I to argue against God, but giving my life for my enemy? Unheard of! And yet, that's exactly what God did for us!

So, here it is, the reason to celebrate - "The Reason for the Season" -
“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Have you accepted the gift of God this year? The gift of His One and Only Son and the eternal life that comes with it. It's only a prayer away, and He's waiting just for you ...

Choosing Wisely

2008-12-10T11:05:00.003-05:00

I've been reading through the Gospels the last few weeks and I've picked up a thread in two stories - both involving choices.

The first is found in the Christmas story, the story of Jesus' birth, in Matthew, chapter 2. It's the story of the Wise Men - the Magi, and of Herod - the king.

Let's begin with the Magi. Somehow, these men, no one is 100% sure who they were - exactly, had heard the prophecies, no one knows how - exactly, of a King to be born in Jerusalem. Verses 1 & 2 say that when they saw a "star" in the East, they made a decision, a choice, to follow that star and to come and honor this King. Upon finding this King, they made another decision to worship Him. They had already sacrificed their time to seek Him; later they would sacrifice from their treasure, with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, to honor Him as well. They were filled with hopeful expectations and excitement to find this King. After a brief visit with Herod, they resumed their search and Scripture says they "rejoiced with exceedingly great joy" when the star again appeared to them to finish leading them to the King.

Contrast their mood and expectations with that of Herod, the king. Verse 3 says that when Herod heard that the Wise Men were seeking the new born "King of the Jews," he was "troubled." In verse 8, rather than put the time and effort in seeking out the child, he sent people to find the child for him. And finally, in verse 16, we see that Herod did not desire to worship the King, he desired to kill Him. There were no sacrifices to the king in either time or treasure, and there was no worship.

The other story of choice comes from the end of Jesus' life - at the Crucifixion (Luke 23). The people gathered around the cross, with few exceptions, were mocking and blaspheming Jesus. Two thieves were being executed with Jesus. They represent the same two choices we all have to make.

One of the thieves is openly mocking this crucified King along with the rest of the crowd. That's the easy thing to do, isn't it, to kind of go along with the crowd and mock and ridicule?

The other thief makes the wise choice. Verses 40 - 42: But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, "Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong. Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom."

What's the reward for his stand, for his faith? Eternal life with the King! Verse 43: And Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."

So how about you? I wonder this Christmas - which choice have you made? Will you seek the King? Will you honor Him with your time and treasures? I usually dislike "bumper sticker" theology, but this one I like - "Wise Men Still Seek Him." Are you making the wise choice this year?

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T08:39:00.002-05:00

I've noticed as I walk through the stores these days, that Thanksgiving seems to get overlooked more and more. After the ever-increasing-in-popularity-with-grownups Halloween passes, the hype starts for a secularly stolen Christmas holiday. I'm not here to complain about the all encompassing "Happy Holidays" versus "Merry Christmas" (that's for a later blog), but about the disappearance of Thanksgiving. These days, Thanksgiving is the trigger for the shopping season, starting with Black Friday.

I've got a couple of theories about this, but that's all they are, really.

First, aside from the grocery stores, with turkeys, and stuffing, and cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pies, and everything else that goes into a Thanksgiving Feast, there really aren't any good "tie ins" for the other retailers. I mean, when was the last time you saw anyone put up cardboard turkey decorations, or horns of plenty, or Pilgrim heads? So, there just doesn't seem to be a financial incentive for the retailers to pump this holiday up or hype it with their advertising dollars.

That leads to a related point: Is what we find important in our culture directly related to the advertising budgets of these same retailers? Do they influence us that much? It seems they can make, or break, just about everything. Think of some of the "non-holidays" that have their own greeting cards now. When you walk into a store during any "season" and see all of the advertising and sales and themes (Valentine's, Halloween, 4th of July, even Back to School), doesn't it make that season seem more important?

The biggest problem, I think, is the increasing irrelevance of God to most people's lives. More and more, God is not seen as the source through whom all blessings flow. That's the government's job! More programs - welfare, nationalized insurance, homeowner assistance - the list goes on; the government can do it! Or, YOU are the one to get it done! You were born with some talents, so you were hired to do a job. You work hard and are reliable, so your employer gives you a paycheck. You've saved and are able to afford your home, that Holiday feast, and all the gifts. You've been able to do all these things because you worked hard to make them happen. It's been by the sweat of your brow and your diligence. If that is the case, why would you think to give thanks to Him, you've done all the heavy lifting?

Well, let's start at the very beginning. Who decided that you would be born, or born healthy, or born with any ability at all? Who decided that everyday you woke up that you would be able to draw breath? Or walk? Or think clearly? Who decided that you would continue to be employed in an economic downturn? Who decided that the finances you've so carefully set aside for the holidays weren't erased by some unforeseen tragedy? It's not like it's never happened to anyone before. All of these things are completely out of your control. You could no more decide yourself that you'll wake up tomorrow than you can control the weather! However, there is One who can!

Yes, there is One who is in control and He's the One to whom we should be thankful. He makes the lame walk, the mute talk and the blind to see. He controls nations and their economies and their plans. Nothing happens outside of His knowledge and influence. He does not sleep and He does not take vacations; He's always at the helm. He's bigger than our economy. He's bigger than you. He knows the outcomes and the plans He has for you and I. For that, I can honestly say, "I'm thankful."

So, this Thanksgiving, let's look beyond our little world and give "Thanks" to the One who really makes it all possible - God! The Creator, and Sustainer, of the universe! He truly is the Giver of all good gifts!

"Thank You, God, for all the blessings you've poured out into my life! You've given health and wealth, family and friends, joy, peace of mind and contentment. You've given blessings I've not even been aware of: protection from disease and accident and more. There have been events that You've delayed (that irritated me at the time) for my benefit, and it wasn't until later that I saw the reason (I'm sorry for complaining at the time). Thank You, Lord, for working all things for my good, even the things I've tried to mess up. Help me to never take any of the blessings You've sent my way for granted and to always turn them back to you in the form of praise. You are an awesome God, friend and Savior, and again, I say, 'Thank You!' Amen!"

Pet Peeves

2008-11-19T17:18:00.002-05:00

Pet peeves. Everyone has at least one, maybe two. And, by the attitude displayed by some people, it would seem that everything is a pet peeve. You’ve got to love those folks.

I too have one thing that really bothers me. Well, two really. One is, people going the “wrong” way down the lanes in a parking lot. I mean, seriously, the parking spaces are angled a certain way on purpose. On top of that, there are usually arrows at the entrance to the lanes that indicate direction of travel! It’s really not that difficult folks! Ah, but that one is not really germane to this article.

A much more serious peeve, are Christians who take the Bible stories from Genesis as “myth” or as allegories illustrating Biblical, or moral, truths. To these Christians, the stories can’t be literal history. There is a real danger in doing that. Before we go there, however, let’s take a look at what Scripture says on the issue.

2Timothy 3:16 says that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God.” Titus 1:2 states flatly, and other passages indicate the same truth, God cannot lie. If all of Scripture is literally God’s Word, and He cannot lie, it stands to reason that the entire Bible is true and won’t contradict itself. In fact, He often references one part of His Word to defend another part. If the referenced section is untrue and unreliable, the whole point being defended or explained is invalid. Worse, it makes God a liar!

Well, what are some examples? I’ll look at two dealing with Noah, his Ark, and the flood, and on dealing with the first humans, Adam and Eve.

In Genesis 7, God’s Word says that a man named Noah built an Ark to escape a coming judgment in the form of a world-wide, catastrophic flood. It’s easy to see in this passage, based on the details given, such as Noah’s age, what and how much he is to take on the ark, time durations, details of the flood, etc., that this is not an allegory. It’s interesting that at least three different writers in the New Testament refer back to this story in Genesis as an illustration.

The following passage from the book of Matthew, it’s important to note, is a direct quote from Jesus. Jesus, being fully God, would share the same attributes as the Father; specifically for this article, the verse from Titus stating that God cannot lie. Jesus, comparing the coming judgment on the world, refers back to the judgment of Noah’s time in Matthew 24:37, “But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Jesus’ word choice, as well as the authoritative tone and statement of fact, “As in the days of Noah”, indicates that this was literal history and not just some myth.

In 2Peter 3:5-6, the Apostle Peter refers back to Noah. Peter states flatly, “For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water.” If this wasn’t fact, what would it matter if people “forgot” the events? If they were just a nice story, they wouldn’t really matter in the first place. If this was an allegory or myth, would Peter state them as facts? That would be akin to me making a reference to some long ago event and beginning by saying, “When Hercules roamed the earth …” or “In the days of Paul Bunyan …” Automatically, credibility would be destroyed.

Finally, the writer of Hebrews 11 includes Noah and the flood events in a long list of other Biblical characters. Now, if Noah was not a true, historical person, and the flood was not a true historical event, no one in the list can be considered a true, historical person and none of the events listed can be considered true, historical events. Conversely, if any one of the other events or people is accepted as true and historical, all of them would have to be considered that way.

Our last example, this one pertaining to Adam and Eve, can be found in Genesis 2. God makes references to “the” man he had created, refers to this same man by name, Adam, creates “a” woman for “the” man, and refers to them as “the” man and his wife. All of these references are singular. In other words, it does not say God created “men” and “women,” or “husbands” and their “wives.” As the story continues in chapter 3, we continue to see references to “the” woman and her husband. Verse7 says that the eyes of “both” of them were opened. I could keep going, but the idea is obvious that there were two literal people, one man and one woman, in the Garden of Eden. Why that is important is related to what happens in verse 6 of chapter 3. In this verse, both man and woman rebel against God by eating from the tree they were forbidden by God to eat of.

Let’s forward to the Apostle Paul’s words in Romans 5:19, “For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man's obedience many will be made righteous.” Now, if Adam was not a real person, Paul’s words are untrue and completely undo the one man/one Man correlation. Again, it also makes God a liar if, after telling us Adam was a real man and Paul using Adam’s fall to show why Jesus’ obedience was necessary, it turns out the story of Adam and Eve is untrue.

So what are the dire consequences of not being able to take God at His word?
The first is obvious. If you can’t ever tell when God is telling the truth and when He is lying, why would you believe any of it? The complete authority of His ordinances, commands, admonitions, doctrines, etc., are completely undermined. If the reason we were trying to live moral lives is a fraud, why should we try to live moral lives? Why should we obey any authority, if there is no reason for that authority to exist in the first place? What does it say to the unbelieving world if Jesus’ own followers don’t believe that the words he spoke are true and accurate?

All of that, and all of the other conclusions you can reach, pale in comparison to the ultimate conclusion. Many of the miracles in Scripture are just that – supernatural miracles. They can’t be explained by human means. The virgin birth is a good example. Science says it can’t happen in humans. God says it did happen. Who will you believe? The same goes for those raised from the dead throughout scripture. That goes for Jesus’ own death, burial and resurrection. If we can’t trust God to tell the truth here, on this fundamental truth, than the Apostle Paul is correct and our faith is empty and futile; sadly, we would still be in our sins and have no hope of ever being, one day, with our Father in Heaven.

I don’t know about you, but I choose to believe that the Author of life and the Creator of the universe can get His facts straight and is a dependable witness!

Of Mary & Martha and Choosing Wisely

2008-11-08T11:35:00.005-05:00

Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus' feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me." And Jesus answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:38 - 42

I love walking through the woods on our hikes these days. This time of year it's so quiet and peaceful out on the trails. The leaves have changed color and are beginning to fall. The leaves make for a soft rustling sound as you walk through them and add some color to the ground. Through the bare trees, you can see quite far back into the woods and pick out the squirrels and chipmunks playing in the leaves. You can see (occasionally) grouse on the downed logs and, theoretically (because we typically don't, to our disappointment), deer and bears. You can hear the sound of the rivers and the falls for good distances because of the stillness. It's absolutely peaceful and easy to worship God in the peacefulness.

Meanwhile, those same leaves that make the hikes up in the Shenandoah National Park so stress relieving and meaningful are also piling up in my front and back yards. They are a relentless assault on my yard requiring more time and effort than I really want to give. But, I have to. Left unraked, bagged or burned, they completely overwhelm my poor yard. They call for attention, and for awhile, mock my efforts to stay on top of them. For the last few weeks of October and first few weeks of November, those leaves crave my attention!

The leaves remind me of all the "pressing" needs of my life. You have them, too. The things that really need attention NOW! It's easy to get lost in the busy-ness and let it take complete control of our time. But, as the story of Mary and Martha reminds us, and as my weekly hikes remind me, it is absolutely necessary to not let busy-ness rule our lives. There is no substitute to being alone with God and just taking time to be still and know He is God.

Every week, I have to decide to take time out, put things aside, and go out into God's Great OutDoors. I mean, do I really have time to go hiking when things are piling up (literally) around me? Like Mary (Mary has chosen that good part), we have to make that choice. There are so many things to do, many of them "good" in their own right, but they are not the "main" thing. Our time with Jesus is irreplaceable. That time, the part where Scripture says "one thing is needed," is like the air we breathe and the food and water we consume. It is life to our souls. Jesus Himself says that He is the Source of Living Water (John 4:14) and Bread of Life (John 6:35). Looked at that way, I really don't have time not to! As with any relationship, the more attention you pay it and the more work you put into it, the closer and stronger it will be.

This week, do yourself a favor, choose to - - - SLOW DOWN! Choose to spend time with your Maker. Choose to seek the One Who gives life - and joy - and peace. In abundance (John 10:10) and beyond all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

If you need some help getting there, you're more than welcome to join us out in "creation." Psalm 19 says, "The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard." There is NO better place to find, and meet with, God than in the place where His glory is declared and His handiwork is on display. It's soooo easy to worship Him when you are in the midst of Him. Romans 1:20 says, "His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead." Amen! I couldn't agree more. And you will too if you join us. Come Meet Your Maker with a Great OutDoor Endeavor!

A Vote That Pleases God

2008-10-29T23:09:00.011-04:00

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)

Have you ever thought of your vote that way? We rarely think of such things as something God would care about, at least I don't, but He does. As the above verse from Corinthians states, we should do everything in our lives so that God is glorified - even voting.

So, what kind of vote would glorify and please God? I'm glad you asked! I won't reveal who I will be voting for, but I'm guessing you'll be able to tell by the end of this blog. I will also not tell you who you should vote for. Hopefully you are praying about that and becoming as informed as possible to make the best possible choice. Your choice is a matter between you and God. In the end, no authority is given to anyone that isn't given by God Himself (Romans 13:1).

Most people I talk to mention one or two specific reasons, often times both, they are voting for, or against, a certain candidate. Those reasons are the economy and the War in Iraq. Don't get me wrong, both of these are important, and both impact this country, but they shouldn't guide your vote. God probably will not speak audibly to you and tell you who you should vote for, but He has left some principles in the Bible that will help guide you.

The overriding principle is found in the book of Matthew, chapter 6. It says, "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Stated another way it means, "seek out and do the things that honor and please God and He will take care of the things that you need, like food, clothing, IRA's, 401K's, etc..."

Another principle at work is this: Scripture says, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD." Psalm 33:12 (NKJV) How do we show that God is the Lord of our nation? I mean, beyond our just saying He is. It works the same for a nation as it does for an individual. The Bible says, "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven." (Matthew 7:21 NKJV) and, "If you love Me, keep My commandments." (John 14:15 NKJV) If we don't put a candidate in office who is willing to keep God's commandments or to do His will, how can our country be "blessed?" The answer is, "It won't be."

In a candidate, what are the things to look for that show he will honor God and show that He is the Lord of our nation? Here are three:

1. Thou shalt not kill. (Exodus 20:13) This is one of the 10 Commandments. Coupled with God's desire for us to help those who can't help themselves (Isaiah 1:16-17; 58:6-7; Matthew 25:36, James 1:27), and the fact that He formed us in the womb and knew us before we were born (Jeremiah 1:5), we should look for the candidate that defends the life of the unborn. Some may say that wars and capital punishment are killing and ask why that should be any different. The answer is simple, they fall in a different category. God has given the state a responsibility and permission to punish for certain crimes and war is certainly allowable, for the state, in certain cases. In no instance is any individual, working outside the dictates of the state and as a representative of the state, to kill. Period. In the case of unborn children, the state has no reason to impose the death penalty. One candidate has promised that the first thing he'd do is to sign the Freedom of Choice Act - not exactly being a defender of the defenseless.

2. God says that He will bless those who are a blessing to Israel and He will curse those who curse Israel. Which candidate is going to bless Israel and which will be a curse to them? That doesn't mean backing them even when they are clearly in the wrong, but it does mean being an ally to them when they are threatened, supporting them on the world stage, and, well, being a blessing to them whenever and however we can.

3. This will sound like I'm singling one group out for condemnation, but I only mention them because they are a focal point this election. One candidate has stated that he'd repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. If you are not familiar with DOMA, it protects marriage as being between one man and one woman; in other words, the way God meant it from the beginning (Genesis 2:24). While we all are sinners, and homosexuals are no more condemned then say - adulterers - God is clear that the behavior is abhorrent to Him, so we should not condone the practice. In fact, God says of those who would like to make immoral (by God's standards) behavior acceptable, "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20, NKJV) Which candidate will honor God by defending His original blueprint for marriage and not calling wrong "right"?

"Change," on it's own is neither "good" nor "bad." It's the direction of the change that's important. Change can take one of two forms, for the better or for the worse. Change for the sake of change is not the issue. It's which candidate will implement change that is more God honoring? Remember, God looks at the heart of the man, not at the "stature" of the man. If you'd like to read examples of "good" change, the stories of King Manasseh (2Kings 21 & 2Chronicles 33) and King Josiah (2Kings 22-23 & 2Chronicles 34-35) are good places to start.

I know the answer I've arrived at. I pray as you seek God, He will reveal the best choice to you - mine! ;-) Relax, I'm just kidding about that. I know He will reveal who He would have you choose, if you diligently seek the answer.

After the election, let's remember that this is still the greatest nation on earth, we are still one people, tribe and tongue, God is in control and he only allows to happen what He allows to happen. Let's be unified and subject to whomever He allows to rule over us.

Creation Scientists and Secular Arguments

2008-10-25T09:51:00.007-04:00

OK, so I have a question. Hopefully, you to help me understand something.

Why is it that when someone one the evolution side wants to argue against Creationism, they never argue against the merits of Creation models. Rather, they will bring up everything from the Supreme Court (a legal body, not a science body) ruling against the teaching of Creationism, on the grounds of "separation" of Church and state (even though the Intelligent Design movement, generally, does not advocate a specific creator or religious point of view), to the simplistic argument that "virtually all" scientists believe in evolution.

I actually had someone respond to a letter to the editor I had written with those, exact words. Whether they were spoken in ignorance or in a deliberate attempt to mislead, I don't know. Either way, the argument is ridiculous.

First of all, the statement is simply not true. There are Creationists, whether Christian Biblical "young earthers" or from the I.D. movement, everywhere. These are not just some quack, no-one-takes-seriously fringe types, but solid, quite rational people with PhD's in their fields. What they have done, is to re-examine the evidence and assumptions and found better explanations for the data observed. If you search, you can even find folks on the secular side offering praise for the same Creationists secular work, then turn around and attack them for their Creationists views. If you'd like an example of this, do a search on Dr. Andrew A. Snelling. Dr. Snelling has a B.Sc. with first class honors in Applied Geology from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, and a Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Sydney. I'll even give you a starting point for you search: noanswersingenesis.org. On the one hand, Dr. Snelling is praised for his credentials and work, then blasted for his creationists views. If you'd like a rebuttal to Dr. Ritchie's ("noanwersingenesis") criticisms, may I recommend the recent movie Expelled? You'll see why Creationists aren't published in mainstream journals, for example. But again, it's always the "messenger," not the model that is attacked and criticized. If the evolution model is so superior, compare the models and let them speak for themselves. What is the evolution side afraid of?

Secondly, even if the statement was true, does that make it "right?" Seriously, back in the day when "virtually all scientists" thought the world was flat, did that make it "true?" Of course not! And when you examine the "evidences" and assumptions of the evolution side (with an open mind), you'll see, like the aforementioned PhD's, that the "proof" they offer does not make for quite such a solid argument as they would have you believe.

Here are two other links if you'd like to see what the Creationist side is doing: icr.org and answersingenesis.org. Do a search on RATE and FAST at either, or both, sites to see some of the problems with evolutionist assumptions and to see some of the latest Creation models. Remember, though, they are just models, and like the evolutionist side, they are subject to change as new data and interpretations arise. The only "assumption" not open to change on the Creation side is "In the beginning, God created..." At least the Creation side is intellectually honest enough to make that statement, and not try to push their views as absolutely proven fact "this-is-definitely-the-way-it-happened."

Odds and Ends

2008-10-16T11:38:00.005-04:00

I promised to write about "science" and "religion" in the same blog last time, but I after a little more thought, I had two more ideas to add. So, here they are ...

The first thought is this: everyone dies. I don't mean to sound morbid or uncaring; it is a fact though, everyone dies. They may be young, they may be old, they may be somewhere in between, but everyone dies. The Bible says that "it is appointed for men to die once" (Hebrews 9:27, NKJV). Do you happen to know anyone of whom this is/was not true? If so, you can make big money by contacting the National Enquirer. It only seems unfair from our perspective when someone passes at a "young" age.

The second thought is this: The Bible teaches that sin entered this world through one man, Adam, and through his sin death entered the world and extended to all mankind (Romans 5:12). It also teaches that all of mankind is sinful and that there is not one single person who, on their own, is "righteous" before God (Romans 3:10, 23). God also says in His Word that the "wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).
Now, again, not wanting to sound uncaring, but if you follow the logic, if we are all "sinners", and the penalty for being sinners is death, why are we surprised when the penalty is enacted.
The real question isn't, "Why would God allow innocent people to die?" What we should ask is this: "Why is God so generous to allow some of us to live and breathe for any length of time?" "Why, if we are condemned to death, would He allow us to carry on even one second?" Remember, no one is "innocent;" we are all guilty.
The answer is easy - He is a merciful judge and it's only through His kindness and mercy that we live.

I hear you out there - "But, I thought God is a God of love! How can anyone be condemned to death?"

While it's true God IS love (1John 4:8), not just a God of love, He is also completely HOLY and cannot tolerate the slightest hint of imperfection in His presence.

Two last thoughts -
1. This life is but a brief span compared to the life we will have in eternity. And rest assured, you will live forever after your life here on Earth is done. The only question is, will it be with God in Paradise, or will it be spent in a place of misery, "weeping (or, "wailing") and gnashing of teeth" (Matthew 8:12; 13:42, 50; 22:13; 24:51; 25:30), separated from God for eternity.
2. If you prefer the former over the latter, remember He made a way of escape for you. You simply have to choose the "lifeboat" called Jesus. The Bible is quite clear that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13; NKJV).

Alright, so next week we mix "science" and "religion." Hopefully, I will surprise you. Come with an open mind ...

Who's In Charge? (part 2)

2008-10-01T19:12:00.021-04:00

We know that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (RSV)

OK, so what is the answer? If God is able to control events and circumstances, why doesn't He? Why does He allow Satan to work evil in this world (check out 1John 5:19 - "...the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.")?

These are the types of questions humans have been asking since after the days of Adam and Eve. Remember, they were there. They knew the answer to those questions. They were the cause of these questions in the first place.

The answer is ... it depends! Don't you hate that answer? It's like your parents answering you with - "maybe". It just leaves a lot to be desired. I told you there is no "one size fits all" answer to this question, though. Here, I'll give you five reasons why, however, there are more. I'll leave it to you to try to apply the correct reason to each situation. That's part of our relationship with God - seeking Him to find the answers.

The first reason: Adversity breeds toughness. Ever heard the expression, "tough times don't last; tough people do"? I've heard that when a bone is broken, that particular point is "stronger" and less likely to re-break than anywhere else along that bone. Now, I'm not sure if that's 100% true or not, but the principal it illustrates is a good one. When you face adversity, you come out stronger on the other end. Kind of a "that which doesn't kill us makes us stronger"deal. It's also been said that God is more interested in our character than our comfort. The overwhelming goal of the Christian is to become more "Christ-like". The Bible refers to God as a refining fire. Just as raw ore is sent through the fire in order to drive out impurities, so we sometimes are allowed to go "through the fire" in order to drive out impurities in our own lives. This thought leads me to the next, which is ...

Sometimes trials, suffering, adversity, etc..., are allowed, because God knows they are likely to drive us to Him. That's what occurred in my life; that's what occurs in many lives - people have to hit "rock bottom" with nowhere else to turn; that's when they look for God. That's His goal after all, to save us from eternal separation from Him to eternal residence with Him. That's why God sent His only begotten Son - so that whoever believes that He is God and that He died for their sins, can be saved for that purpose. These people are called "joint heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven" and "children of God". Those titles are reserved ONLY to those who have accepted Jesus and His work. He also says in His Word, the Bible, that if we seek Him, He will be found. It's a promise. This reasoning also answers the question, at least partially, of, "Why would/How could a loving God send anyone to hell?" I'll cover this, eventually, in more depth, but for now, let's make it clear. God doesn't send anyone to hell; they send themselves. I can hear you out there saying "What? Who would send themselves to hell?" They don't do it intentionally, for the most part, but they have a choice. We already covered how humans are responsible for our present condition through sin. We haven't covered the fact that God is absolutely pure (but, we will), and that He cannot stand any hint of imperfection in His presence (but, we will). Without Jesus (I'll explain "how" later), we stand no chance of entry into Heaven, but are condemned to hell. God did everything possible and gave everything possible, to provide a way for us to not go to hell. Whether we choose to jump in the lifeboat to escape the sinking ship or not, is exactly that - our choice.

Third reason: Its a test - for obedience, for patience, for trust, for faith, etc... It's there for your sake. It's there for you to see exactly where you are in your walk with God. Will you obey? Do you believe God will make a way? Do you believe He will provide? Just as in school, if there were no tests, neither you, nor the instructor, would know how much of the "material" you've mastered. The whole thing of walking with God is preparing you for your eventual citizenship in Heaven. Again, the standard is "Christ-likeness". By the way, did you know that that is what "Christian" means? It's a "disciple of Christ". What does a disciple do, but copy the one they follow.

Reason number four - and by the way, these are in no particular order - by suffering and enduring through trials, we develop empathy for others. The worst thing in the world (OK, maybe not the worst, but it's not good) is to say to someone who is suffering, "I know how you feel" if you've never suffered similar circumstances. You can't know. The other person knows you can't know. Your words carry no further weight from that point forward and is likely to cause anger or more hurt. The flip side is this - if you have indeed suffered in like manner, you are in a unique position to minister to that person that no one else can reach. You are in a position to be "Christ-like" to that person. I know God is thrilled when we are His "hands and feet" in this hurting world. It blesses the one we are able to minister to AND it blesses the one able to do the ministering. Parents who have lost a child in an accident can use their walk through the shadows to reach and encourage another set of parents enduring the same fate. A cancer survivor can use their battle to reach and encourage someone you and I couldn't even begin to relate to. You get the idea. Reason #4 here is the one reason where you'll be able to say, "I see why now." You might not be able to at the time, but looking back, you'll definitely see the connection.

The last reason will leave you a bit dissatisfied, but it is where your trust and faith live and work. Here it is, are you ready? You may never know why. At least, not on this side of eternity. God may choose not to reveal it to you and you may never be able to look back through life and see the "why" of it all. Did you read through Job like I asked? If you did, you'll see that God never did answer that question for Job. We get to see it, of course, but Job never does. What was Job's response, though? I'll paraphrase - "The Lord gives and the Lord takes. Though He slay me, I will still praise Him." Job understood what I said earlier - everything on the earth is God's, created by Him and for Him. He has the right to do with it as He sees fit. That would be scary if God were not pure, holy, and good, but He is, so it's not. You just have to have faith and trust that God will honor His Word and be true to His revealed character. He says that every good thing comes from above.

God says in Ecclesiastes that He will make everything beautiful in its time. That, basically, says what the verse at the top of this blog says. Did you read it? Here it is again to keep you from having to scroll, "We know that in everything, God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 (RSV). What does that mean? It means this - no matter what it is you are going through, God will use that for good in your life, if you are His.

Remember, all of us are subject to some kind of catastrophe in our lives; no one is exempt. The thing is, what are you going to do with it? Will you let it push you from God, or to God? Smart money says, let it push you to Him.

Talk to you later. Next time we'll look at using science to prove "creationism".

"Egad," you say. "You can't be serious. You can't mix science and religion"

I am, and I will ...

Who's In Charge?

2008-09-30T09:12:00.014-04:00

We know that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (RSV)

This weekend's hiking trip to White Oak Canyon's lower falls went nicely. It was slightly overcast and a bit on the cool side. The baptism was an adventure; late September + mountain stream = COLD! Both Pastor Matt and Tabatha said, in effect, the same thing - the cold just sucked the breath out of both of them. Too bad for them; the scenery was awesome for the rest of us. :-)

We did have an incident along the trail, though. We encountered a swarm of bees along the way. Unfortunately, one of our dogs (we took our two boxers along, much to their regret) was stung repeatedly. She started to vomit, she had difficulty breathing and she developed hives on her legs and up her back. She was miserable. And that was on the way UP to the falls. To make it worse, we had failed to pack our Benadryl. Poor dog was really glad to make it home finally.

She's doing fine now, thanks for asking ...

Her story kind of ties into what I wanted to talk about this week. It brings us to this: God may not have meant it to be this way, but why doesn't He fix it now that is this way? Is He in control? Does He not care? Surely He could have made it so that bees wouldn't have stung our dog. Surely He could have healed her once she was stung.

This one will require some time and space, because there is not a "one size fits all" answer. I promise, if you bear with me, probably over the next two posts, I'll give my best answer. Part of the answer may leave you slightly dissatisfied; that will be where trust and faith will come into play.

Before we get into answering our questions, please allow me to tell a story and ask a few questions of my own.

In the course of conducting my business, I've come to know a young man whose father is very wealthy. The father wanted to help the son, so he bought a business and allowed the son to run it. The father was quite "hands off;" it was almost like the son was the owner. He made all of the decisions, paid the bills, hired the help, etc... Well, the son did not have much business background and there were some setbacks, some of them were not really controllable, that made it a bit more difficult for the son. The father would offer some advice here and there, but like I said, he really did not push the son or interfere. Eventually, you guessed it, the business went under.

My questions: Who owned the business, the father or the son? The father owned; the son ran it. Did the father have the right to step in anytime he wanted and take over? Of course he did. What would that have done for the son? Would he have learned anything for the long haul? What may it have done to their relationship?

Ah, you're sharp! You're right, I'm going to relate this to God and us (try to anyway).

First, it's important to remember that all of this exists only by God, through God and for God. (Colossians 1:16) It's His. He owns it. He has the right to do whatever He wants in it and to it. The "it" includes us and our surroundings and circumstances.

Second, with God, all things are possible! He can make the blind to see, the lame to walk and the deaf to hear. He can cure diseases, He can give and He can take away. That doesn't mean He always will, however.

And the final point for tonight, just as the father turned the keys to the business over to his son and kept his hands off, God has done a similar thing. When Adam and Eve rebelled (we often don't like to see it that way, but that's what it was), the keys to this world were turned over to another party - Satan. ( John 12:31, Ephesians 2:2; among others)

"What!" you say, "Satan is in control of this world?"

Yes, but with limits. (just read the 1st two chapters of Job) This fact alone explains a lot of the evil we see occurring, but I'll fill in more detail. Just remember this verse: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour ..." 1Peter 5:8.

But also remember this - there is one key that frees us from Satan's rule. I'll give you a hint in advance - John 14:6.

See ya later ...

God Created This? (part 2)

2008-09-20T20:01:00.000-04:00

So ... the question is still out there - Did God create this?

The answer is really simple - absolutely YES! And definitely NO!

"Huh?", you ask. "What's up with that answer? It can't be both." OK, here we go. Just remember, you asked.

The answer is, God did create everything, but what we see today is but a remnant, a shadow, of the original. "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth." Genesis 1:1. But the heaven and earth that God created was perfect. In fact, during the account in Genesis, God says that what He had created was "good" five times, and "very good" once. He was quite satisfied with what He had created. There was no death, disease, sickness or suffering. James 1:17 reminds us that "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above." God desired us to have good then; He desires us to have good now. "Good" definitely would not have included suffering, mental anguish, etc... If it did, God would be a masochist and totally unreliable in His word. Scripture teaches that God IS love (1John 4). In 1 Cor. 13, God tells us what love is. It includes the following: love is patient and is kind, is not provoked, thinks (much less does) no evil, and does not rejoice in iniquity.

Unfortunately, Adam and Eve (yes - they were real people) sinned in the Garden of Eden (part of God's perfect creation), which was the beginning of the problems we see now.

"How so?" - you ask, and I'm glad you did. It all comes down to "personal responsibility." Sometimes, our actions carry consequences, in spite of our sorrow at, and apologies for, our own actions. Sometimes, they don't. The point is, whether we face consequences or not, we would deserve consequences, received, or not. As a general rule, our actions don't occur in a vacuum either; someone is usually affected by our deeds.

God, though He had created everything perfectly, had also told Adam and Eve there would be consequences for their actions, if they did not do what He asked of them. The penalty for one specific act of disobedience was death (Gen. 2:17). You guessed it, they did it. And because they did it, we too suffer the consequences of their actions. Not just humankind, either. All of creation "groans" because of their disobedience (Romans 8:22). Severe? Maybe. But when you are the Creator of everything and hold everything together by Your power, you sort of have the right to set the rules - don't you? Is it Congress' fault if you don't pay your taxes and end up in jail? Hardly. And guess what - if you pass away before your debt is settled - your estate pays up before your descendants receive a dime. In other words, someone else is affected by your actions.

Oh, and remember those earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, etc that we said weren't "natural?" That's right - caused by the "curse" of Adam and Eve's disobedience. Not that they couldn't have happened before, but I don't think they did. If God created everything "good," and we know the destructive power of these "natural" catastrophies, it seems logical that, at the very least, God restrained them from occurring. There's more bad news, I'm afraid. Not only will they continue to occur, but they will get worse as time moves forward. You don't have to take my word for it, God says so, too. That's right, Matt 24 (among others) talks about the things to come. Also, don't forget the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics: "'In a simple manner, the second law states that "energy systems have a tendency to increase their entropy (chaos)" rather than decrease it.'" (Wikipedia) In other words, this "law" of physics, which by the way, God would have created, and used Himself, says that things will continue to "run down," or degrade, as time passes by. Science proving the Bible - what a concept!

So here's the deal - God absolutely did create everything, perfectly, in the beginning, but it has been corrupted. He is definitely not responsible for what we see today. Humans are. What we see now is but a faint, barely intelligible remnant of the original. That's not to say you can't still get a glimpse of God in this creation (Romans 1:19,20), you just have to look a little harder to find Him.

I think I'll end here tonight. In the next few posts, I'll look at: God's role now; is He still in control, or not? Is this all there is to look forward to? How about mixing "religion" and "science," can it be done?

Just one thought for you until next time, from the book of Jeremiah, "And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."

2008-08-14T23:39:00.000-04:00

GOD Endeavors

2008-08-14T23:27:00.000-04:00

God Created This?

"For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." Romans 1:20 (NIV)

As Valerie and I have been hiking over the last several weeks, the thought has occurred to me that anyone looking at the world as it exists presently, may have a hard time finding God in it.

As we've hiked the trails, we've come across more than one little bird that had made its last flight. Not only had they flown their last, but it was obvious they had been another creature's dinner. We've come across numerous berry-pit filled evidences of bear along the trails. The thought has crossed my mind that, if hungry enough, those same bear wouldn't mind having us share the same fate as those birds.

We've seen plants that are struggling to survive the drought of summer. We've been on trails that were nearly overgrown with tangles of branches and thorny berry bushes (and possibly bear hiding among them, just out of eyesight, waiting for the right moment for "carry-out").

The last trail was strewn with loose rock that made descending very difficult. They also choked out any, and all, vegetation.

The thoughts extend off the trail as well. They go to the family of a young girl killed in a car accident trying to understand "why." They go to babies born with defects and diseases. They go to victims of "natural" (though, eventually, I hope to show they aren't "natural" at all) disasters such as earthquakes, floods and tornados.

One can hear the voices asking, "Where was God when ...," or, "How could God allow ...," or "What kind of God would cause ...."

So, what are the answers? How can what we see in our world be reconciled with a God of love (1John 4:16) and compassion (Lam. 3:22-23)? What happened? Where is God in all this?

There are answers. It begins with a proper understanding of God and His character. It begins with a proper understanding of the way things were meant to be. It begins with a proper understanding of man's intended relationship with God and the relationship between actions and consequences. If you'll indulge me over the next couple of posts, I'd like to re-assure you that God does care and that He is still in control and that you can find Him if you look for Him. He's still here. He hasn't moved, and He's waiting for you - patiently - to give you a hope and a joy and a peace beyond comprehension.

Our beginning verse said that God should be seen and understood by what He's made. If you're having trouble seeing Him, or maybe you don't even believe, but you're curious, this is what I say to you tonight: Come along on some great big ole' GOD adventures. Discover Him for Who He is and the plans He has for you. Join in and discover the One who said He formed you in the womb. He knows you and wants to be known by you. Its possible, and its a journey worth taking!

Until next time ...