A common obligation
“Not until the creation and maintenance of decent conditions of life for all men are recognized and accepted as a common obligation of all men and all countries—not until then shall we, with a certain degree of justification, be able to speak of mankind as civilized.”
Albert Einstein
I read some alarming statistics the other day. Globally almost 870 million chronically undernourished. But it’s not just the developing world where this is happening.
In the Untied States according to the U.S. census, 46.5 million people were living in poverty in 2012. That’s 15% of all Americans.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 15.8 million children under 18 in the United States live in households where they are unable to consistently access enough nutritious food necessary for a healthy life.
In Canada a country with about one tenth the population of the United States Food Secure Canada estimates that almost 2.5 million Canadians live without secure access to food.
Kristy Duncan M.P. in National Newswatch October 2013 wrote,
“Tragically,... 7.7 per cent of, or 961,000, Canadian households are “food insecure”, one in four First Nations and Inuit children grows up in poverty, and over 300,000 children rely on food banks.
It is absolutely abhorrent that any child goes to school hungry in a country as wealthy as Canada, and that our country remains one of the few developed countries without a student nutrition program.”
Such poverty is not limited to Canada and the United States. It is prevalent in all western countries despite their wealth.
In Britain there is no official government monitoring of hunger. However the Trussell Trust reported in 2012 that it feeds tens of thousands of people each year, and that altogether in the UK there are 13 million people "below the poverty line": about 1 in 5 of the overall population.
A 2012 study undertook by Netmums found that one in five mothers would regularly miss out on meals so as to be able to save their children from going hungry. According to a March 2013 report, teachers in London schools said that at least five children per class turned up without having had breakfast, with 41% of teachers saying they believed the children's hunger led to symptoms such as fainting.
One report from a girl just referred to as Amy living in Britain when she was twenty recalled what it was like to live with hunger in Britain,
"I was so hungry I would even chip bits of brick off the wall and eat those"
"When I was little I was very thin and was very embarrassed about it. I had developed a tummy ache which attached itself to eating and stress, which I believe was something I inherited from my mother's stress around not having enough food.
"I would wake up starving in the night but there would be no more food. When I went to people's houses their parents would make as much food as possible for me and more for me to take home.
"At my best friend's house I would fill up on dog biscuits in between meals. I would wait at my garden fence and ask passers-by for sweets or food. I would even chip bits of brick off the wall and eat those. When I lived on my own and on the streets I would spend days walking around London, hoping to be able to find or steal some food. I would look in every bin and on every bit of the floor."
How tragic. And while the account of Amy is from the United Kingdom I have no doubt it is happening in Canada, the United States and other western countries.
The reason I write all of this is because I firmly believe we need to do more for the poor. I hear politicians in the Unite States wanting to cut social programs, do away with Obama care and it seems basically let the poor fend for themselves.
Canada’s no better the Conservative government of Stephen Harper seems to want to do nothing.
They are quick to give tax breaks to the rich but slow to help those in need.
In all of this I hear politicians that claim they are Christian. Yet they are not standing up for the basic human rights of the most vulnerable in our society. The right to good nutritious food, healthcare, and a roof over their head.
Jesus said
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Matthew 7:12.
I can only think that those politicians who claim to be Christians and are not speaking out for the poor do not agree with the words of Jesus. Either that or they like eating bricks.
Tony Campolo the American Evangelist said,
“The reason why I buy into the Democratic Party more than the Republican Party is because there are over 2,000 verses of Scripture that deal with responding to the needs of the poor.”
Tony Campolo
The Talmud says this,
“When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?” Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual? “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
The Talmud.
Be we politicians, princes paupers or just the average man and woman on the street we should be asking ourselves that question. “Have we dealt honourably and faithfully in all our dealings with our fellow man?”
Are we doing what we can to help the poorest people in our society?
We should be demanding our politicians help the poorest in our society no matter the cost, because whether you are Christian or not it is the humane thing to do.
Think about it.
Wednesday, 4 February 2015
Tuesday, 3 February 2015
God's Instrument
God's Instrument
Jesus Said,
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
“He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
Matthew 25:34-36.
As a Christian have you done anything like Jesus is telling us here in Matthew 25?
I was in the downtown of our city a while ago. The wind was bitter the temperature minus fifteen centigrade. A man in a dirty jacket was standing in between two doors that led into an office building begging for money.
Just inside the doors was a coffee shop and people were coming and going. Passing the man like he wasn’t their.
I had no cash on me so I went in with the intention of at least getting him a gift card so he could buy a meal.
Before I could do it however a well dressed man walked out of the coffee shop with a hot coffee and gave it to the man. He then offered to drive him to the Salvation army where he could get a room for the night and a warm meal.
The man accepted and they left.
As they did I though of what a wonderful example of what Christ wanted us to do.
We can’t change the world but we can if it is within our power we should at least try and help one person.
The Jews have something they call Tzadakah. It is something I think Christians need to practice in their lives.
I got the following definition of Tzadakah from a Jewish website it states,
“Tzedakah is the Hebrew word for acts that we call charity in English: giving assistance and money to the poor and needy or to other worthy causes. However the nature of tzedakah is very different from the idea of charity. The word “charity suggests benevolence and generosity, a magnanimous act by the wealthy and the powerful for the benefit of he poor and needy.
The word “tzedakah” is derived form the Hebrew root Tzadei-dalet-Qof, meaning righteousness, justice or fairness. In Judaism giving to the poor is not viewed as a generous, magnanimous act, it is simply and act of righteousness, performance of a duty giving the poor their due.”
According to Jewish scholars there are various levels of Tzedakah,
"Giving begrudgingly
Giving less than you should, bu giving cheerfully,
Giving after being asked
Giving before being asked
Giving when you do not know the recipient’s identity, but the recipient knows yours
Giving when you know and the recipient’s identity, but the recipient doesn’t know yours.
Giving when neither party knows the other’s identity.
Enabling the recipient to become self-reliant."
I think we as Christians have a lot to learn from Judaism. And giving is one of those things.
Think about it
“Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.”
Francis of AssisiJesus Said,
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
“He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
Matthew 25:34-36.
As a Christian have you done anything like Jesus is telling us here in Matthew 25?
I was in the downtown of our city a while ago. The wind was bitter the temperature minus fifteen centigrade. A man in a dirty jacket was standing in between two doors that led into an office building begging for money.
Just inside the doors was a coffee shop and people were coming and going. Passing the man like he wasn’t their.
I had no cash on me so I went in with the intention of at least getting him a gift card so he could buy a meal.
Before I could do it however a well dressed man walked out of the coffee shop with a hot coffee and gave it to the man. He then offered to drive him to the Salvation army where he could get a room for the night and a warm meal.
The man accepted and they left.
As they did I though of what a wonderful example of what Christ wanted us to do.
We can’t change the world but we can if it is within our power we should at least try and help one person.
The Jews have something they call Tzadakah. It is something I think Christians need to practice in their lives.
I got the following definition of Tzadakah from a Jewish website it states,
“Tzedakah is the Hebrew word for acts that we call charity in English: giving assistance and money to the poor and needy or to other worthy causes. However the nature of tzedakah is very different from the idea of charity. The word “charity suggests benevolence and generosity, a magnanimous act by the wealthy and the powerful for the benefit of he poor and needy.
The word “tzedakah” is derived form the Hebrew root Tzadei-dalet-Qof, meaning righteousness, justice or fairness. In Judaism giving to the poor is not viewed as a generous, magnanimous act, it is simply and act of righteousness, performance of a duty giving the poor their due.”
According to Jewish scholars there are various levels of Tzedakah,
"Giving begrudgingly
Giving less than you should, bu giving cheerfully,
Giving after being asked
Giving before being asked
Giving when you do not know the recipient’s identity, but the recipient knows yours
Giving when you know and the recipient’s identity, but the recipient doesn’t know yours.
Giving when neither party knows the other’s identity.
Enabling the recipient to become self-reliant."
I think we as Christians have a lot to learn from Judaism. And giving is one of those things.
Think about it
Monday, 2 February 2015
Signs of a Christian
Signs of a Christian
Mahatma Gandhi said,
“Jesus is ideal and wonderful, but you Christians - you are not like him.”
Mahatma Gandhi.
I’m convinced that Gandhi did not see true Christians. He saw people who claimed to be Christians. People who had a holier than thou attitude. People who certainly didn’t practice what they preached.
In our time I would say quite a few people in our society, see people claiming to be Christians who are not. Jesus even said,
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Matthew 7:22,23.
True Christians believe the basics of their faith,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
But true Christians go further they obey the words of Jesus who said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets”
Matthew 7:12
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous...”
Matthew 5: 43-45
When it comes to Christian love the Apostle Paul defines it this way,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13
A true Christian will not judge anyone outside the church that is God’s job. The apostle Paul writes,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
The apostle James writes
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!”
James 2:12,13.
A true Christian will be true to the words of Jesus who gave them their task on this earth when he said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
It is the Christians job to tell anyone who will listen about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. They are to present it and let the individual decide for themselves. They are never to force their beliefs on anyone.
A true Christian will do as Francis of Assisi said,
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
Francis of Assisi
This to me is what a true Christian is. And what a True Christian is called to do.
Think about it.
Mahatma Gandhi said,
“Jesus is ideal and wonderful, but you Christians - you are not like him.”
Mahatma Gandhi.
I’m convinced that Gandhi did not see true Christians. He saw people who claimed to be Christians. People who had a holier than thou attitude. People who certainly didn’t practice what they preached.
In our time I would say quite a few people in our society, see people claiming to be Christians who are not. Jesus even said,
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Matthew 7:22,23.
True Christians believe the basics of their faith,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
But true Christians go further they obey the words of Jesus who said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets”
Matthew 7:12
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous...”
Matthew 5: 43-45
When it comes to Christian love the Apostle Paul defines it this way,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13
A true Christian will not judge anyone outside the church that is God’s job. The apostle Paul writes,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
The apostle James writes
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!”
James 2:12,13.
A true Christian will be true to the words of Jesus who gave them their task on this earth when he said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
It is the Christians job to tell anyone who will listen about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. They are to present it and let the individual decide for themselves. They are never to force their beliefs on anyone.
A true Christian will do as Francis of Assisi said,
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
Francis of Assisi
This to me is what a true Christian is. And what a True Christian is called to do.
Think about it.
Sunday, 1 February 2015
Why I write
Why I write
Over the last year I have written about six hundred blog entries in some six different blogs. Someone asked me why I write these blogs. I found the answer in 1John 1:1-4.
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
We write this to make our joy complete.”
1John 1:1-4
I as a Christian truly believe that I have the most important thing in the world to share with all people, whoever they are, whatever their lifestyle.
God wants all people everywhere to come and know him on a personal level. He wants to have fellowship with the individual.
This is why I write the blogs.
I have no wish to force my beliefs on anyone. I simply place what I believe out there for people to read. The decision they make is entirely between them and God.
I am not their judge. I am simply a person who truly loves God and wants others to share in that same love.
A personal relationship that offers peace that passes all understanding. That lasts for eternity.
Jesus said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
C. S. Lewis wrote,
“The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.”
C.S. Lewis.
I as a Christian believe that God knew that we could not be good enough to get into heaven, so he reached down to us. He sent His son Jesus Christ to atone for our short comings and sins.
Jesus died not for mankind as a whole but for each individual.
I believe the words of John when he wrote,
Yet to all who received him,(Jesus) to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
John 1:12,13
I firmly believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. That is why I write and talk to anyone who will listen and tell them about Jesus.
Jesus said,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
There is one certainty in this life. That being we will never get out of it alive.
I cannot believe that this life is all there is. That when we die we simply pass into oblivion.
It seems to be that all cultures from the beginning of time believe in an after life. It just seems to be to be in our very make up that we know there is something after death. An eternity that we will pass into.
The question is where will you spend eternity. Will it be in heaven.
The apostle Paul wrote
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
In order to possess the gift of eternal life, one must first accept it. Will you accept the free gift of Salvation Jesus offers you?
Think about it?
Over the last year I have written about six hundred blog entries in some six different blogs. Someone asked me why I write these blogs. I found the answer in 1John 1:1-4.
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
We write this to make our joy complete.”
1John 1:1-4
I as a Christian truly believe that I have the most important thing in the world to share with all people, whoever they are, whatever their lifestyle.
God wants all people everywhere to come and know him on a personal level. He wants to have fellowship with the individual.
This is why I write the blogs.
I have no wish to force my beliefs on anyone. I simply place what I believe out there for people to read. The decision they make is entirely between them and God.
I am not their judge. I am simply a person who truly loves God and wants others to share in that same love.
A personal relationship that offers peace that passes all understanding. That lasts for eternity.
Jesus said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
C. S. Lewis wrote,
“The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.”
C.S. Lewis.
I as a Christian believe that God knew that we could not be good enough to get into heaven, so he reached down to us. He sent His son Jesus Christ to atone for our short comings and sins.
Jesus died not for mankind as a whole but for each individual.
I believe the words of John when he wrote,
Yet to all who received him,(Jesus) to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
John 1:12,13
I firmly believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. That is why I write and talk to anyone who will listen and tell them about Jesus.
Jesus said,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
There is one certainty in this life. That being we will never get out of it alive.
I cannot believe that this life is all there is. That when we die we simply pass into oblivion.
It seems to be that all cultures from the beginning of time believe in an after life. It just seems to be to be in our very make up that we know there is something after death. An eternity that we will pass into.
The question is where will you spend eternity. Will it be in heaven.
The apostle Paul wrote
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
In order to possess the gift of eternal life, one must first accept it. Will you accept the free gift of Salvation Jesus offers you?
Think about it?
Saturday, 31 January 2015
Christian Responsibility
Christian Responsibility
“He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”
Revelations 20:21
The second last verse in the New Testament makes it clear Jesus is coming soon.
Thus if he was coming soon when Revelations was written the time of Christ’s appearing is much nearer now.
With all that is happening in the middle east and around the world today Christians seem to be talking more and more about the coming of Christ. The internet is drowning in Christian material from a myriad of sources pointing to the fact that Jesus will be hear soon.
Evangelist and pastors in the media are sorting through every speck of information that is coming in on the news wires and trying to read prophetic significance into it.
I’m sure some are right about what they say. I am equally sure that many are wrong. Some may even be out and out charlatans trying to lead people down the wrong path.
When it comes to prophecy we must be careful who we listen to. We must read the scriptures and compare what we are being told with the Bible. Just because it sounds good doesn’t mean it is right.
Now I’ve said all that to say this. While the study of prophesy is nice and the speculation as to what is going to happen is interesting. It is not the responsibility of Christians to worry about prophesy.
When it comes to Christ’s return Jesus said,
“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come”
Matthew 24:36-42.
We are to keep watch and do our appointed task. That task is winning souls for Christ. I firmly believe that instead of spending our time speculating on prophesy and buying books and recordings on prophesy we need to spend that time and money on reaching people for Christ.
Jesus said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
As Christians this is what we should be doing because not doing so could condemn someone to a Christless eternity.
Think about it.
“He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”
Revelations 20:21
The second last verse in the New Testament makes it clear Jesus is coming soon.
Thus if he was coming soon when Revelations was written the time of Christ’s appearing is much nearer now.
With all that is happening in the middle east and around the world today Christians seem to be talking more and more about the coming of Christ. The internet is drowning in Christian material from a myriad of sources pointing to the fact that Jesus will be hear soon.
Evangelist and pastors in the media are sorting through every speck of information that is coming in on the news wires and trying to read prophetic significance into it.
I’m sure some are right about what they say. I am equally sure that many are wrong. Some may even be out and out charlatans trying to lead people down the wrong path.
When it comes to prophecy we must be careful who we listen to. We must read the scriptures and compare what we are being told with the Bible. Just because it sounds good doesn’t mean it is right.
Now I’ve said all that to say this. While the study of prophesy is nice and the speculation as to what is going to happen is interesting. It is not the responsibility of Christians to worry about prophesy.
When it comes to Christ’s return Jesus said,
“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.
Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come”
Matthew 24:36-42.
We are to keep watch and do our appointed task. That task is winning souls for Christ. I firmly believe that instead of spending our time speculating on prophesy and buying books and recordings on prophesy we need to spend that time and money on reaching people for Christ.
Jesus said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
As Christians this is what we should be doing because not doing so could condemn someone to a Christless eternity.
Think about it.
Friday, 30 January 2015
Hope for Christians and mental illness
Hope
The other day I was watching a television program I believe called Final twenty-four. It portrayed the final twenty-four hours in a famous persons life. The person despite all the fame and fortune had committed suicide.
The person simply couldn’t find peace in his life. He’d tried it all including drugs sex and alcohol.
He seemed to echo the words of the writer of Ecclesiastes who wrote,
I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 1:14.
As I’ve mentioned in other writings, I live with Bi-polar effective disorder. I volunteer as a speaker with the Canadian Mental Health Association here where I live. Telling various groups what it is like to live with a mental illness.
Let me tell you my story,
As I said I have Bipolar Affective disorder,
Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating manic episodes in which the individual feels abnormally euphoric, optimistic, and energetic and depressive periods in which the individual feels sad, hopeless, guilty, and sometimes suicidal. Manic or depressive periods may last for days, weeks, or months and run the spectrum from mild to severe. These episodes may be separated by periods of emotional stability in which the individual functions normally.
For me my journey started as I headed home from work. I’d been working long hours and travelling over a hundred kilometres one way to work. When suddenly without waring a fear of dread welled up inside of me, tears filled my eyes and I was forced to pull over to the side of the road.
When I gained enough of my equilibrium to go down to the next rest stop where I pulled into a far corner of the parking lot and cried for half an hour.
My doctor told me I was stressed out and to take time off work. Which I did going back just before Christmas.
Things went well then one night on my way to work in a snow storm, my car spun out, no one was hurt thanks to a snow bank, but my moods went out of control.
On that occasion my fathers house being nearest I’d pulled in and called in to work sick.
On that day my world shattered. Life would never be the same.
I went back to see my doctor the next day and it was then he suggested I see my first psychiatrist.
At the time I had my preconceived idea of psychiatrist was a witch doctor who pushed pills.
Still I trusted my family doctor and began fighting the dragon in my head.
My first psychiatrist was a strong believer in trying to change things by changing lifestyle and eating habits. But after a while he diagnosed me with Bipolar affective disorder and placed me on a low dose of Lithium the gold standard at the time.
Unfortunately he passed away as a result of cancer before I was stabilized and my care went briefly back to my family doctor. Who eventually got me in with my second Psychiatrist.
He agreed with the Bipolar diagnosis and started me on a trial and error treatment trying various combination of drugs. (There is no definitive test at this time for Bipolar, no single drug treatment that works for every one. Thus the need to try various combinations)
Some worked briefly others had side effects I couldn’t handle.
I at one point began to believe the words of William, Wordsworth who said
“We poets in our youth begin in gladness: but therefore come in the end to despondency and madness”
My second Psychiatrist got me reasonably stabilised then retired my treatment going back to my family doctor then to my current psychiatrist. An excellent doctor well versed in her pharmacology.
Someone who had worked with to help me through some very hard times.
That’s the key finding a good Psychologist that works with you and understands you.
Bipolar is like being in a storm a massive storm that billows all around you.
You try to out run it but you never seem to be able too.
Another way to describe it is imagine you’re in a snow globe, simultaneously you’re holding the snow globe and inside it.
You’re shaking it in causing the storm rage all around you.
Intellectually you know you’re shaking it causing the storm but you’re powerless to stop it. So you continue with that storm pounding to the very roots of your inner psyche.
Another way of putting it is imagine your in a high powered sports car, you’re flying down the road with the wind whipping your hair. The adrenaline rush is fantastic.
Then all of a sudden you stop and jump into a pool of mud up to your neck and just wallow there is despair until you think you can’t take it any more.
Then without warning the cycle repeats.
For me and I think, even for the professionals there are a lot of things that are not understood. Goblins if you will in your mind.
Then in my case there’s the anxiety. Anxiety is faceless automatons that wander through your mind causing irrational fear. Trying to control your life.
But there is hope. For me, almost without me realizing it I put together a team consisting of my psychiatrist, my family doctor, my pastor and church family and equally important my wife and family.
All of whom are there for me when I need them.
There is also my faith. My faith means a lot to me and I am convinced that it has saved me on many occasion from doing something stupid, because suicide at times has lurked in the back of my mind.
The words of Jesus have proved a reality in my life when he said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
Today I am on a magnificent journey. I still have some very bad days, day, I can’t
fully function. But I take things one day sometimes one moment at a time.
To the Christian who is reading this I have a caution.
Sadly within some church circles I have had people tell me that mental illness is a sign of weakness and that I should just pull myself up by my boot straps and get on with life.
I have even had people say mental illness is demon possession and that I needed someone to pray for me.
Mental illness is no more demon possession than diabetes, a broken arm or any other physical injury. Nor is it a sign of weakness.
If you have symptoms similar to what I’ve described above see a doctor. As good as prayer may be sometimes you need professional help.
After all God put doctors in place for a reason so why not seek their help.
The key for me is not just the successful cocktail of medications I’m on, which is absolutely necessary. But it’s also my faith.
Through all the highs and lows I’ve gone through with this illness I firmly believe God has been there for me giving me reassurance and hope in what at times has been a very darkened world.
As I say if you recognize the symptoms above in your life, talk to a health care professional. It never hurts.
Please remember Mental Illness is very real. Don’t try to go it alone.
Bi-polar disorder is a two headed dragon. The key is not to try and fight it there is no cure. The key is to medicate it correctly, and learn to live with it. Something a good Psychiatrist can help you with.
For me it is a case most days of taking things one step at a time.
Reinhold Niebuhr once wrote,
In Canada all provincial health care systems cover Psychiatrist.
In Canada you can also go speak to the Canadian Mental Health association who can steer you in the right direction if you have any doubts.
Please remember Mental Illness is very real don’t try to go it alone.
There is help. There is hope.
The other day I was watching a television program I believe called Final twenty-four. It portrayed the final twenty-four hours in a famous persons life. The person despite all the fame and fortune had committed suicide.
The person simply couldn’t find peace in his life. He’d tried it all including drugs sex and alcohol.
He seemed to echo the words of the writer of Ecclesiastes who wrote,
I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 1:14.
As I’ve mentioned in other writings, I live with Bi-polar effective disorder. I volunteer as a speaker with the Canadian Mental Health Association here where I live. Telling various groups what it is like to live with a mental illness.
Let me tell you my story,
As I said I have Bipolar Affective disorder,
Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating manic episodes in which the individual feels abnormally euphoric, optimistic, and energetic and depressive periods in which the individual feels sad, hopeless, guilty, and sometimes suicidal. Manic or depressive periods may last for days, weeks, or months and run the spectrum from mild to severe. These episodes may be separated by periods of emotional stability in which the individual functions normally.
For me my journey started as I headed home from work. I’d been working long hours and travelling over a hundred kilometres one way to work. When suddenly without waring a fear of dread welled up inside of me, tears filled my eyes and I was forced to pull over to the side of the road.
When I gained enough of my equilibrium to go down to the next rest stop where I pulled into a far corner of the parking lot and cried for half an hour.
My doctor told me I was stressed out and to take time off work. Which I did going back just before Christmas.
Things went well then one night on my way to work in a snow storm, my car spun out, no one was hurt thanks to a snow bank, but my moods went out of control.
On that occasion my fathers house being nearest I’d pulled in and called in to work sick.
On that day my world shattered. Life would never be the same.
I went back to see my doctor the next day and it was then he suggested I see my first psychiatrist.
At the time I had my preconceived idea of psychiatrist was a witch doctor who pushed pills.
Still I trusted my family doctor and began fighting the dragon in my head.
My first psychiatrist was a strong believer in trying to change things by changing lifestyle and eating habits. But after a while he diagnosed me with Bipolar affective disorder and placed me on a low dose of Lithium the gold standard at the time.
Unfortunately he passed away as a result of cancer before I was stabilized and my care went briefly back to my family doctor. Who eventually got me in with my second Psychiatrist.
He agreed with the Bipolar diagnosis and started me on a trial and error treatment trying various combination of drugs. (There is no definitive test at this time for Bipolar, no single drug treatment that works for every one. Thus the need to try various combinations)
Some worked briefly others had side effects I couldn’t handle.
I at one point began to believe the words of William, Wordsworth who said
“We poets in our youth begin in gladness: but therefore come in the end to despondency and madness”
My second Psychiatrist got me reasonably stabilised then retired my treatment going back to my family doctor then to my current psychiatrist. An excellent doctor well versed in her pharmacology.
Someone who had worked with to help me through some very hard times.
That’s the key finding a good Psychologist that works with you and understands you.
Bipolar is like being in a storm a massive storm that billows all around you.
You try to out run it but you never seem to be able too.
Another way to describe it is imagine you’re in a snow globe, simultaneously you’re holding the snow globe and inside it.
You’re shaking it in causing the storm rage all around you.
Intellectually you know you’re shaking it causing the storm but you’re powerless to stop it. So you continue with that storm pounding to the very roots of your inner psyche.
Another way of putting it is imagine your in a high powered sports car, you’re flying down the road with the wind whipping your hair. The adrenaline rush is fantastic.
Then all of a sudden you stop and jump into a pool of mud up to your neck and just wallow there is despair until you think you can’t take it any more.
Then without warning the cycle repeats.
For me and I think, even for the professionals there are a lot of things that are not understood. Goblins if you will in your mind.
Then in my case there’s the anxiety. Anxiety is faceless automatons that wander through your mind causing irrational fear. Trying to control your life.
But there is hope. For me, almost without me realizing it I put together a team consisting of my psychiatrist, my family doctor, my pastor and church family and equally important my wife and family.
All of whom are there for me when I need them.
There is also my faith. My faith means a lot to me and I am convinced that it has saved me on many occasion from doing something stupid, because suicide at times has lurked in the back of my mind.
The words of Jesus have proved a reality in my life when he said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
Today I am on a magnificent journey. I still have some very bad days, day, I can’t
fully function. But I take things one day sometimes one moment at a time.
To the Christian who is reading this I have a caution.
Sadly within some church circles I have had people tell me that mental illness is a sign of weakness and that I should just pull myself up by my boot straps and get on with life.
I have even had people say mental illness is demon possession and that I needed someone to pray for me.
Mental illness is no more demon possession than diabetes, a broken arm or any other physical injury. Nor is it a sign of weakness.
If you have symptoms similar to what I’ve described above see a doctor. As good as prayer may be sometimes you need professional help.
After all God put doctors in place for a reason so why not seek their help.
The key for me is not just the successful cocktail of medications I’m on, which is absolutely necessary. But it’s also my faith.
Through all the highs and lows I’ve gone through with this illness I firmly believe God has been there for me giving me reassurance and hope in what at times has been a very darkened world.
As I say if you recognize the symptoms above in your life, talk to a health care professional. It never hurts.
Please remember Mental Illness is very real. Don’t try to go it alone.
Bi-polar disorder is a two headed dragon. The key is not to try and fight it there is no cure. The key is to medicate it correctly, and learn to live with it. Something a good Psychiatrist can help you with.
For me it is a case most days of taking things one step at a time.
Reinhold Niebuhr once wrote,
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time...
That for me says is all, accepting what I cannot change, changing what I can, living one day sometimes one moment at a time and enjoying the good things that are in my life.In Canada all provincial health care systems cover Psychiatrist.
In Canada you can also go speak to the Canadian Mental Health association who can steer you in the right direction if you have any doubts.
Please remember Mental Illness is very real don’t try to go it alone.
There is help. There is hope.
Thursday, 29 January 2015
Love
Love
The above is a quote from the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians. It to my mind is the purest definition of love ever written. It defines love perfectly.
Christian or not, one has to admit if there were more love in the world there would be less violence.
Love is about humility. Love, true Love, does not place any conditions on anyone.
For me as a Christian Love is what I am called to do,
Jesus made three very important statements about love,
Jesus when asked,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
In Matthew Jesus is quotes as saying
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
Matthew 5:43.44.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
I think these sayings are universal truths no matter what faith you are or whether you believe in God at all.
Love is about giving of one’s self something I believe is quite often lacking in our world today.
Anne Frank a young girl hiding from the Nazi’s in World War two Holland wrote,
"Give of yourself, give as much as you can? And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness! If everyone were to do this and not be as mean with a kindly word, then there would be much more justice and love in the world. Give and you shall receive, much more than you would have ever thought possible. Give, give again and again, don’t lose courage, keep it up and go on giving! No one has ever become poor from giving!" Anne Frank.
This is what love is all about.
When I was in my teens I watched a movie musical called “Good by Mr. Chips.” it’s theme song was called “Fill the World with Love”. The words still have meaning to me all these years later.
Good By Mr. Chips
At the end of your life will you be able to say, “I filled the world with Love my whole Life through?
Think About it.
“Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast,
it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking,
it is not easily angered,
it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil
but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,
always perseveres.
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13The above is a quote from the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians. It to my mind is the purest definition of love ever written. It defines love perfectly.
Christian or not, one has to admit if there were more love in the world there would be less violence.
Love is about humility. Love, true Love, does not place any conditions on anyone.
For me as a Christian Love is what I am called to do,
Jesus made three very important statements about love,
Jesus when asked,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
In Matthew Jesus is quotes as saying
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
Matthew 5:43.44.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
I think these sayings are universal truths no matter what faith you are or whether you believe in God at all.
Love is about giving of one’s self something I believe is quite often lacking in our world today.
Anne Frank a young girl hiding from the Nazi’s in World War two Holland wrote,
"Give of yourself, give as much as you can? And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness! If everyone were to do this and not be as mean with a kindly word, then there would be much more justice and love in the world. Give and you shall receive, much more than you would have ever thought possible. Give, give again and again, don’t lose courage, keep it up and go on giving! No one has ever become poor from giving!" Anne Frank.
This is what love is all about.
When I was in my teens I watched a movie musical called “Good by Mr. Chips.” it’s theme song was called “Fill the World with Love”. The words still have meaning to me all these years later.
In the morning of my life
I will look to the Sunrise
At a moment in my life
When the world is new.
And the Question
I shall ask only God can answer.
Will I be brave and strong and true,
Will I fill the world with love my whole life through?
Will I fill the world with love my whole life through?
In the evening of my life
I will look to the sunset
At a moment in my life
When my life is through.
And the question I shall ask only I can answer
Was I brave and strong and true.
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?
From the MusicalGood By Mr. Chips
At the end of your life will you be able to say, “I filled the world with Love my whole Life through?
Think About it.
Wednesday, 28 January 2015
From the Psalms
From the Psalms
Where is your trust. Is it in the Lord. Do you desire to do the work of the Lord. Our lives should be fully devoted to God.
We live in a very uncaring world. We live and for that matter have always lived in a world that has been hostile to Christians. That’s life.
The Psalmist here is asking God to be with him. He saying God is with him through everything that happens to him.
As Christians we should remember this. That no matter what we are going through God is with us.
The cry of the Psalmist is for God to lead him in the strait path to teach him His ways.
No matter what circumstance we are in God is there. I think it was Cory Tenboon that said “there is no pit to deep that God cannot reach into and touch us.” This is true.
I fully believe the book of Acts was put there to show Christians throughout the generations what they can expect.
Within the book of act there is great rejoicing. While at the same time those who took the Gospel out underwent a great deal. Peter and John heal a man, preached to the people as a result they were arrested and put in prison. Stephen was stoned to death. Paul shipwrecked, stoned left for dead and put in prison where he witnessed to his jailor.
There was also a lot of evangelization. Peter preaching from the house top on the day of Pentecost. Peter and John witnessing to the crowd and the religious leaders of their day. Philip leading the Ethiopian Eunich to Christ. Paul being asked by Stoic and Epicurean philosophers to speak at the Areopagus in Athens. Telling non believing intellectuals of his day about Christ.
These men went through a lot for the sake of the gospel and they laid the foundation of the church. They showed God is with them no matter the circumstances.
They believed the words of the Psalmist,
Think about it.
The Lord is my light and my salvation -
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life-
of whom shall I be afraid.
Psalm 27:1Where is your trust. Is it in the Lord. Do you desire to do the work of the Lord. Our lives should be fully devoted to God.
We live in a very uncaring world. We live and for that matter have always lived in a world that has been hostile to Christians. That’s life.
The Psalmist here is asking God to be with him. He saying God is with him through everything that happens to him.
As Christians we should remember this. That no matter what we are going through God is with us.
The cry of the Psalmist is for God to lead him in the strait path to teach him His ways.
No matter what circumstance we are in God is there. I think it was Cory Tenboon that said “there is no pit to deep that God cannot reach into and touch us.” This is true.
I fully believe the book of Acts was put there to show Christians throughout the generations what they can expect.
Within the book of act there is great rejoicing. While at the same time those who took the Gospel out underwent a great deal. Peter and John heal a man, preached to the people as a result they were arrested and put in prison. Stephen was stoned to death. Paul shipwrecked, stoned left for dead and put in prison where he witnessed to his jailor.
There was also a lot of evangelization. Peter preaching from the house top on the day of Pentecost. Peter and John witnessing to the crowd and the religious leaders of their day. Philip leading the Ethiopian Eunich to Christ. Paul being asked by Stoic and Epicurean philosophers to speak at the Areopagus in Athens. Telling non believing intellectuals of his day about Christ.
These men went through a lot for the sake of the gospel and they laid the foundation of the church. They showed God is with them no matter the circumstances.
They believed the words of the Psalmist,
“The Lord is my light and my salvation -
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life-
of whom shall I be afraid.”
We need to be witnessing like the early church. We need to be using our abilities to further the gospel of Christ, even if that ability is just to invite someone to church.Think about it.
Tuesday, 27 January 2015
The Holocaust Remembered
A time to remember
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Today is International Holocaust remembrance day. A day set aside by the United Nations to remember the victims of the Nazi genocide.
The numbers are staggering for Jews alone, 6,258,673
Jews Killed by country,
Africa 526, Hungary 305,000, Albania 200,
Italy 8,000, Austria 65,000, Latvia 85,000
Belgium 24,387, Lithuania 135,000,
Czechoslovakia 277,000, Luxembourg 700, Denmark
77 Netherlands 106,000, Estonia 4,000,
Norway 728, France 83,000, Poland 3,001,000
Germany160,000, Romania 364,632, Greece 71,301,
Soviet Union 1,500,000, Yugoslavia 67,122
TOTAL: 6,258,673
Included in this count an estimated 1,100,000 Children.
Add to that in excess of 5,000,000 non-jews who were murdered in the death camps.
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Even after listening to the first hand accounts of those who lived through it I still find it hard to comprehend.
It amazes me how the free and democratic nations could allow such things to happen. Yet it did. Men like Neville Chamberlain the prime minister of England at the time, with all the best of intentions wanting peace, failed to see that you cannot bargain with despots like Hitler.
Even the American government at the time refused, at the start of the war to get involved. Many nations including Canada turned Jewish refugees away.
At the same time in Nazi occupied Europe there were many individuals at the risk of their own life, Christians, even Muslims hid Jewish families. Some would pay with their lives for doing the right thing, but because of their actions many Jews lived to tell their story.
Today there are those in the world who would deny Israel the right to exist. Many who wish to destroy Israel and murder the Jewish people.
Those who wish to do such atrocities are no better than that despotic Austrian corporal and his followers who plunged the world into world war.
These men are evil and are proving they will, like Hitler kill anyone from anywhere and of any faith who will not conform to their ways.
If world war two and the holocaust has shown us anything, it is that we cannot bargain with such men. They like Hitler and his henchmen need to be destroyed. They need to be at the very least put on trial for crimes against humanity.
We who live in the free democracies of the west need to be doing all we can to stop those who would murder innocent men women and children.
We need to stand with the Jewish people. Stand with Israel and all the peace loving countries of the world against a great evil that is before us.
As individual citizens we need to urge our politicians to do the right thing and stand up to the terrorist. We need to stand behind and support our troops as they stand in harms way protecting our way of life.
I believe it was Stephen Harper Canada’s prime minister who said we are in a war. I believe we are.
Our war may not consist of massive tank battles and daily air raids but it is no less a war a war that affects us all.
So as we remember the millions that died in the holocaust of world war two. Let us not forget the message it sends.
The message that we will never be able to appease evil men. Chamberlain waving his little piece of paper and proclaiming peace in our time could not in 1939. Nor will we be able to in 2015.
Let us remember the words of Martin Niemoller an anti-Nazi who wrotes,
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“When they came for the Communists, I did not stand up, because I was not a Communist. When they came for the Jews, I did not stand up, because I was not Jewish. When they came for the Catholics, I did not stand up, because I was not a Catholic. When they came for me, there was no one left to stand up.”
Martin Niemoller
It will take the might of the free world to ensure our freedom of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
So pray that our politicians to do the right thing. Pray for our the men and women of our military that they may be safe.
And pray for Israel, the Jewish community the world over and for the peace of Jerusalem. For I believe it is only when the Jews and Jerusalem are at peace will the world truly be at peace.
Think about it
Today is International Holocaust remembrance day. A day set aside by the United Nations to remember the victims of the Nazi genocide.
The numbers are staggering for Jews alone, 6,258,673
Jews Killed by country,
Africa 526, Hungary 305,000, Albania 200,
Italy 8,000, Austria 65,000, Latvia 85,000
Belgium 24,387, Lithuania 135,000,
Czechoslovakia 277,000, Luxembourg 700, Denmark
77 Netherlands 106,000, Estonia 4,000,
Norway 728, France 83,000, Poland 3,001,000
Germany160,000, Romania 364,632, Greece 71,301,
Soviet Union 1,500,000, Yugoslavia 67,122
TOTAL: 6,258,673
Included in this count an estimated 1,100,000 Children.
Add to that in excess of 5,000,000 non-jews who were murdered in the death camps.
Poles, Romani gypsies,
Mentally and Physically disabled,
Freemasons, Slovenes,
homosexuals, Jehovah’s witnesses,
Christians of all faiths,
Spanish republicans,
Soviet prisoners of war,
Prisoners of war of other allied nations,
and many thousands more.
As someone who has always lived in the relative freedom of the west born after world war two, I cannot imagine the horrors those sentenced to the death camps underwent. Even after listening to the first hand accounts of those who lived through it I still find it hard to comprehend.It amazes me how the free and democratic nations could allow such things to happen. Yet it did. Men like Neville Chamberlain the prime minister of England at the time, with all the best of intentions wanting peace, failed to see that you cannot bargain with despots like Hitler.
Even the American government at the time refused, at the start of the war to get involved. Many nations including Canada turned Jewish refugees away.
At the same time in Nazi occupied Europe there were many individuals at the risk of their own life, Christians, even Muslims hid Jewish families. Some would pay with their lives for doing the right thing, but because of their actions many Jews lived to tell their story.
Today there are those in the world who would deny Israel the right to exist. Many who wish to destroy Israel and murder the Jewish people.
Those who wish to do such atrocities are no better than that despotic Austrian corporal and his followers who plunged the world into world war.
These men are evil and are proving they will, like Hitler kill anyone from anywhere and of any faith who will not conform to their ways.
If world war two and the holocaust has shown us anything, it is that we cannot bargain with such men. They like Hitler and his henchmen need to be destroyed. They need to be at the very least put on trial for crimes against humanity.
We who live in the free democracies of the west need to be doing all we can to stop those who would murder innocent men women and children.
We need to stand with the Jewish people. Stand with Israel and all the peace loving countries of the world against a great evil that is before us.
As individual citizens we need to urge our politicians to do the right thing and stand up to the terrorist. We need to stand behind and support our troops as they stand in harms way protecting our way of life.
I believe it was Stephen Harper Canada’s prime minister who said we are in a war. I believe we are.
Our war may not consist of massive tank battles and daily air raids but it is no less a war a war that affects us all.
So as we remember the millions that died in the holocaust of world war two. Let us not forget the message it sends.
The message that we will never be able to appease evil men. Chamberlain waving his little piece of paper and proclaiming peace in our time could not in 1939. Nor will we be able to in 2015.
Let us remember the words of Martin Niemoller an anti-Nazi who wrotes,
“When they came for the Communists, I did not stand up, because I was not a Communist. When they came for the Jews, I did not stand up, because I was not Jewish. When they came for the Catholics, I did not stand up, because I was not a Catholic. When they came for me, there was no one left to stand up.”Martin Niemoller
It will take the might of the free world to ensure our freedom of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
So pray that our politicians to do the right thing. Pray for our the men and women of our military that they may be safe.
And pray for Israel, the Jewish community the world over and for the peace of Jerusalem. For I believe it is only when the Jews and Jerusalem are at peace will the world truly be at peace.
Think about it
Monday, 26 January 2015
Our desire
Our desire
This should be our desire to proclaim the love of God to everyone. To use our skills our talents and abilities to tell the world about Jesus. Even if that world is just the people we work with or the person next door.
The salvation message is not one to be held secretly in our heart. It is to be told to all who will listen.
We shouldn’t force it on anyone but we should be willing to be a witness for Christ at any time in word and deed.
People should know we are Christians by the way we live and act.
Francis of Assisi said,
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
Francis of Assisi
Quite often I’ve found that the way we act in both word and deed around none Christians sends a message to those around us about our faith in Christ be it positive or negative.
We need to be aware of this and make sure our actions are always showing our faith in the best possible way.
Think about it.
I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart.
I proclaim righteousness in the assembly;
I do not seal my lips, as you know, O Lord.
I do not hide your righteousness in my heart;
I speak your faithfulness and salvation.
I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.
Psalm 40: 8-10This should be our desire to proclaim the love of God to everyone. To use our skills our talents and abilities to tell the world about Jesus. Even if that world is just the people we work with or the person next door.
The salvation message is not one to be held secretly in our heart. It is to be told to all who will listen.
We shouldn’t force it on anyone but we should be willing to be a witness for Christ at any time in word and deed.
People should know we are Christians by the way we live and act.
Francis of Assisi said,
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
Francis of Assisi
Quite often I’ve found that the way we act in both word and deed around none Christians sends a message to those around us about our faith in Christ be it positive or negative.
We need to be aware of this and make sure our actions are always showing our faith in the best possible way.
Think about it.
Sunday, 25 January 2015
Do to others
Do to others
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Matthew 7:12
Dear Christian,
Would you want others judging and heaping condemnation on you simply because they disagreed with you?
Would you want people restricting your rights to marry simply because they disagreed with you?
Would you want any of your rights restricted simply because someone disagreed with your faith or lifestyle? I don’t think you would.
So as a Christian if you don’t want your rights restricted. If you believe in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If you believe the word of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 7:12, why would you want to restrict the rights of those in our society to do the same?
We live in a secular democracy where all are considered equal. So why would you protest against anyone who simply wants the same rights as you.
I strongly believe if you try to restrict the rights of others ultimately you will come back to hurt you.
In a democracy freedom for all has to be freedom for all.
As Christians we need to be supporting that concept.
Jesus made things very clear when asked,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus also said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
Matthew 5:43-46.
The apostle Paul wrote,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13
If we are truly Christian we will be showing such love to all people. We will even be willing to stand up for the rights of those we disagree with, irrespective of who they are.
Billy Graham said,
“Racial prejudice, anti-Semitism, or hatred of anyone with different beliefs has no place in the human mind or heart.”
Billy Graham
Tony Campolo said,
“These issues are biblical issues: to care for the sick, to feed the hungry, to stand up for the oppressed. I contend that if the evangelical community became more biblical, everything would change.”
Tony Campolo
think about it.
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Matthew 7:12
Dear Christian,
Would you want others judging and heaping condemnation on you simply because they disagreed with you?
Would you want people restricting your rights to marry simply because they disagreed with you?
Would you want any of your rights restricted simply because someone disagreed with your faith or lifestyle? I don’t think you would.
So as a Christian if you don’t want your rights restricted. If you believe in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If you believe the word of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 7:12, why would you want to restrict the rights of those in our society to do the same?
We live in a secular democracy where all are considered equal. So why would you protest against anyone who simply wants the same rights as you.
I strongly believe if you try to restrict the rights of others ultimately you will come back to hurt you.
In a democracy freedom for all has to be freedom for all.
As Christians we need to be supporting that concept.
Jesus made things very clear when asked,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus also said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
Matthew 5:43-46.
The apostle Paul wrote,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13
If we are truly Christian we will be showing such love to all people. We will even be willing to stand up for the rights of those we disagree with, irrespective of who they are.
Billy Graham said,
“Racial prejudice, anti-Semitism, or hatred of anyone with different beliefs has no place in the human mind or heart.”
Billy Graham
Tony Campolo said,
“These issues are biblical issues: to care for the sick, to feed the hungry, to stand up for the oppressed. I contend that if the evangelical community became more biblical, everything would change.”
Tony Campolo
think about it.
Saturday, 24 January 2015
Jesus for all
Jesus for All
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
I believe that every one needs to come into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Sadly I think way to many people calling themselves Christians both in the media and out are turning people away from Christ.
I see this particularly in North America pastors and evangelist using their so called freedom of speech to jump all over and condemn those they disagree with.
Many point to homosexuals and bash them as if they have some special sin. They protest outside of abortion clinics and heap condemnation on those who work there and those who go into them. This should not be so.
Jesus who is the Son of God and has the right to judge, never once said to the secular authorities of Rome that they were sinners.
Paul standing before the learned men of Athens in a city filled with pagan Gods and practising things that would have been very abhorrent to him never pointed to what the Athenians were doing and calling them a bunch of sinners.
If he did the wouldn’t have listened to him.
Paul in his letter to the Corinthians said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
It is not our business to judge those outside the church. It is our job as Christians to win souls for Christ.
In order to do that we need to be reaching out to the world with the Love of Christ. This is not to say we must give up our moral values.
Paul when speaking to the Athenians never gave up his beliefs. Paul simply presented the love of Christ to non-believing Athenians.
What he said should be an example to us as to how we witness to people. This is what he said,
“While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols.
So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.
A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to dispute with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.
Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?
You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we want to know what they mean.”
(All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious.
For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands.
And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.
God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.
‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’
“Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by man’s design and skill.
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.
For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.”
When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.”
At that, Paul left the Council.
A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.”
Acts 17:16-32 (NIV)
Paul won some to Christ. And others even wanted to hear more. This is how it should be for Christians.
If you disagree with someone’s lifestyle that is your choice in a free and democratic society.
If you disagree with Abortion the place to protest is not in front of an abortion clinic it’s in front of the houses of parliament or congress that pass the laws.
We should be showing the love of God to those whom we disagree with. We need to be reaching out to those of any lifestyle irrespective of who they are, and truly showing God’s love.
We should not be judging anyone or putting something in their way that would turn them from God.
I believe the words of Paul to the Corinthians when he wrote,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Think about it.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
I believe that every one needs to come into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Sadly I think way to many people calling themselves Christians both in the media and out are turning people away from Christ.
I see this particularly in North America pastors and evangelist using their so called freedom of speech to jump all over and condemn those they disagree with.
Many point to homosexuals and bash them as if they have some special sin. They protest outside of abortion clinics and heap condemnation on those who work there and those who go into them. This should not be so.
Jesus who is the Son of God and has the right to judge, never once said to the secular authorities of Rome that they were sinners.
Paul standing before the learned men of Athens in a city filled with pagan Gods and practising things that would have been very abhorrent to him never pointed to what the Athenians were doing and calling them a bunch of sinners.
If he did the wouldn’t have listened to him.
Paul in his letter to the Corinthians said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
It is not our business to judge those outside the church. It is our job as Christians to win souls for Christ.
In order to do that we need to be reaching out to the world with the Love of Christ. This is not to say we must give up our moral values.
Paul when speaking to the Athenians never gave up his beliefs. Paul simply presented the love of Christ to non-believing Athenians.
What he said should be an example to us as to how we witness to people. This is what he said,
“While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols.
So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.
A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to dispute with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.
Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?
You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we want to know what they mean.”
(All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious.
For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands.
And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.
God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.
‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’
“Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by man’s design and skill.
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.
For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.”
When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.”
At that, Paul left the Council.
A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.”
Acts 17:16-32 (NIV)
Paul won some to Christ. And others even wanted to hear more. This is how it should be for Christians.
If you disagree with someone’s lifestyle that is your choice in a free and democratic society.
If you disagree with Abortion the place to protest is not in front of an abortion clinic it’s in front of the houses of parliament or congress that pass the laws.
We should be showing the love of God to those whom we disagree with. We need to be reaching out to those of any lifestyle irrespective of who they are, and truly showing God’s love.
We should not be judging anyone or putting something in their way that would turn them from God.
I believe the words of Paul to the Corinthians when he wrote,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Think about it.
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