As I write this, I'm watching - for the umpteenth time - Independence Day. In my opinion, this is a sci-fi classic with some of the best cheesy dialoge in cinematic history (especially between Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum, and some great lines from Dennis Quaid).
The pep talk before the final battle given by Bill Pullman - albiet fictional - is one of the best Presidential speeches ever given, including Lincoln's Gettysburg address and FDR's speech to Congress asking for a declaration of war on Japan.
What can I say? As many times I've seen it, I just can't tear myself away when ID4 is on.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Runaway Bride Followup
Looks like my prayers for the Runaway Bride have been answered. Besides the restitution she's already agreed to pay, she got probation, community service, and she'll continue to get the help she needs (see full story).
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
Pets on Parade
Can I come in, too, dad? You just had to let her in, didn't you?
I think kitties are fascinating! The feeling is not mutual.
Big dog, little dog.
I think kitties are fascinating! The feeling is not mutual.
Big dog, little dog.
Sleeping In
Ahhh...so nice to sleep in this morning. One of those nights where I didn't have to set an alarm. I don't get to do that very often.
Friday, May 27, 2005
Star Wars Fan Since 1977
We finally got to see Star Wars III - Revenge of the Sith today. Wow!
The special effects were outstanding, but I must say that some of the battle scenes seemed a little too busy (but maybe after giving George Lucas some more repeat business, I will be able to process them a little better). However, I really enjoyed seeing the story of the two trilogies come together. Some people who don't care for the Star Wars saga haven't really taken the time to understand the story - and it is fairly complex. Then again, as a Star Wars fan since its opening in 1977, I've had 28 years to digest the story line.
Revenge of the Sith in my opinion is probably the most anticipated prequel of all time. Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi allude to the events leading up to the trilogy. Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones set up the story, and Revenge of the Sith completes it. This film answers a lot of questions. We pretty much see how the characters of Star Wars got there in the first place.
Remember the holographic message of Princess Leia in Star Wars? She was seeking help from General Kenobi, the same man who helped her [adoptive] father during the Clone Wars. We see now how that happens.
Remember in Star Wars when Obi-Wan Kenobi gives Luke his father's light saber? We now see how Obi-Wan ended up with it.
But the focus of this film is on how Anakin Skywalker became Darth Vader, and believe me, it wasn't pretty. Fortunely he finally redeems himself in Return of the Jedi.
Although each episode - with perhaps the exception of Star Wars - is not necessarily the stuff of legend by themselves, one must consider the whole. The Star Wars saga is an epic adventure in American mythology, comporable to the Oddysey and Ilead of ancient Greek mythology. It is a morality play. Good beats evil.
It's odd to see a story that takes 28 years to play out, especially when the happy ending was revealed after only six years. But as with many happy endings, there is a long struggle in the middle leading up to it. That part of the story is just as crucial as the end. As for me, I'm quite satisfied with how it all played out.
The special effects were outstanding, but I must say that some of the battle scenes seemed a little too busy (but maybe after giving George Lucas some more repeat business, I will be able to process them a little better). However, I really enjoyed seeing the story of the two trilogies come together. Some people who don't care for the Star Wars saga haven't really taken the time to understand the story - and it is fairly complex. Then again, as a Star Wars fan since its opening in 1977, I've had 28 years to digest the story line.
Revenge of the Sith in my opinion is probably the most anticipated prequel of all time. Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi allude to the events leading up to the trilogy. Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones set up the story, and Revenge of the Sith completes it. This film answers a lot of questions. We pretty much see how the characters of Star Wars got there in the first place.
Remember the holographic message of Princess Leia in Star Wars? She was seeking help from General Kenobi, the same man who helped her [adoptive] father during the Clone Wars. We see now how that happens.
Remember in Star Wars when Obi-Wan Kenobi gives Luke his father's light saber? We now see how Obi-Wan ended up with it.
But the focus of this film is on how Anakin Skywalker became Darth Vader, and believe me, it wasn't pretty. Fortunely he finally redeems himself in Return of the Jedi.
Although each episode - with perhaps the exception of Star Wars - is not necessarily the stuff of legend by themselves, one must consider the whole. The Star Wars saga is an epic adventure in American mythology, comporable to the Oddysey and Ilead of ancient Greek mythology. It is a morality play. Good beats evil.
It's odd to see a story that takes 28 years to play out, especially when the happy ending was revealed after only six years. But as with many happy endings, there is a long struggle in the middle leading up to it. That part of the story is just as crucial as the end. As for me, I'm quite satisfied with how it all played out.
But Seriously, What's Up With All the Prescription Drugs?
I don't know about you, but I think we really need to be concerned about all the new designer drugs coming out these days. It doesn't matter what I'm watching on TV or reading in a magazine - I'm bound to be broadsided by a pharmaceutical company trying to sell their newest wonder drug.
I think it's immoral to be pushing these drugs onto a society where health care costs continue to skyrocket at rate that rivals that of a barrel of crude oil. Advertising in itself helps drive these costs up.
The other thing that really concerns me is that we keep hearing about drug recalls. Vioxx is a prime example - and it probably contributed to my wife's pancreatitis.
The drug companies claim a lot of the money they charge goes into research. If that's the case, then you had better get your research right.
I think it's immoral to be pushing these drugs onto a society where health care costs continue to skyrocket at rate that rivals that of a barrel of crude oil. Advertising in itself helps drive these costs up.
The other thing that really concerns me is that we keep hearing about drug recalls. Vioxx is a prime example - and it probably contributed to my wife's pancreatitis.
The drug companies claim a lot of the money they charge goes into research. If that's the case, then you had better get your research right.
If You Take Viagra You'll Go Blind!
Boy, here's an interesting twist to some old locker room humor. NBC was reporting tonight that certain impotence drugs have been linked to blindness.
You know, with the increased libido, maybe the blindness isn't caused by the drugs themselves (nudge, nudge, wink, wink).
Actually, that's probably quite true. Some of the same diseases and conditions that cause impotence also can cause blindness. But it makes for an interesting headline, doesn't it?
You know, with the increased libido, maybe the blindness isn't caused by the drugs themselves (nudge, nudge, wink, wink).
Actually, that's probably quite true. Some of the same diseases and conditions that cause impotence also can cause blindness. But it makes for an interesting headline, doesn't it?
States Ranked by Dumb Driving
CNN/Money released the results of a study conducted by GMAC Insurance. Drivers were asked questions similar to what you would find on a drivers license test.
The six places (in order) scoring the lowest were Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, District of Columbia, and Maryland. Oregon and Washington scored highest.
I was surprised to find Arizona right about average. I was even more surprised to find New Mexico scored better than Arizona (I must have witnessed the worst of New Mexico drivers). California (no surprise here) scored seventh lowest. Then again, we have a lot of ex-Californians driving around here, thereby dragging down our score.
Click here if you want to see how all the states and DC scored.
The six places (in order) scoring the lowest were Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, District of Columbia, and Maryland. Oregon and Washington scored highest.
I was surprised to find Arizona right about average. I was even more surprised to find New Mexico scored better than Arizona (I must have witnessed the worst of New Mexico drivers). California (no surprise here) scored seventh lowest. Then again, we have a lot of ex-Californians driving around here, thereby dragging down our score.
Click here if you want to see how all the states and DC scored.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Prayer for Al-Zarqawi
There was a report on Fox News that according to an al Qaeda website, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the leader of the Iraqi branch of the terrorist organization, has been wounded. Prayers are being requested.
So, being the merciful Christian that I am, I offer this prayer:
Dear Lord, we are reminded of a powerful man named Saul, who was to the Christians as Heinrich Himmler was to the Jews. Then you came to him on that dusty road to Damascus. You changed his name. You changed his life. You turned a zealous enemy of The Way into a model of Christianity. Instead of quenching the spark, Paul fanned the flames of a wildfire.
As human beings, it is natural for us to wish the worst on our enemies. Forgive us, Lord, for we do not understand your will and your judgements.
So it is in the spirit of how you worked through the Apostle Paul, I pray now for Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. I pray that the injuries he may have received are a wake-up call, one that tells him, "No more killing my children." I pray that he be safely captured, so that he will have to face his accusers. If a humble spirit is in order, I pray that he faces utter discrace before his peers; for perhaps then and only then will he be able to receive your grace. For you, and only you, are the mighty and powerful Lord. Remind him. Remind us. Amen.
So, being the merciful Christian that I am, I offer this prayer:
Dear Lord, we are reminded of a powerful man named Saul, who was to the Christians as Heinrich Himmler was to the Jews. Then you came to him on that dusty road to Damascus. You changed his name. You changed his life. You turned a zealous enemy of The Way into a model of Christianity. Instead of quenching the spark, Paul fanned the flames of a wildfire.
As human beings, it is natural for us to wish the worst on our enemies. Forgive us, Lord, for we do not understand your will and your judgements.
So it is in the spirit of how you worked through the Apostle Paul, I pray now for Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. I pray that the injuries he may have received are a wake-up call, one that tells him, "No more killing my children." I pray that he be safely captured, so that he will have to face his accusers. If a humble spirit is in order, I pray that he faces utter discrace before his peers; for perhaps then and only then will he be able to receive your grace. For you, and only you, are the mighty and powerful Lord. Remind him. Remind us. Amen.
Monday, May 23, 2005
Wonderful Story
Here's a story that was sent to me by e-mail:
After a few of the usual Sunday evening hymns, the church's pastor slowly stood up, walked over to the pulpit and - before he gave his sermon for the the evening - briefly introduced a guest minister who was in the the service that evening.
In the introduction, the pastor told the congregation that the guest minister was one of his dearest childhood friends and that he wanted him to have a few moments to greet the church and share whatever he felt would be appropriate for the service. With that, an elderly man stepped up to the pulpit and began to speak.
"A father, his son, and a friend of his son were sailing off the Pacific coast," he began, "when a fast approaching storm blocked any attempt to get back to the shore. The waves were so high, that even though the father was an experienced sailor, he could not keep the boat upright and the three were swept into the ocean as the boat capsized."
The old man hesitated for a moment, making eye contact with the two teenagers who were, for the first time since the service began, looking somewhat interested in his story.
The aged minister continued on: "Grabbing a rescue line, the father had to make the most excruciating decision of his life: to which boy would he throw the other end of the life line. He had only seconds to make the decision. The father knew that his son was a Christian and he also knew that his son's friend was not.
"The agony of his decision could not be matched by the torrent of waves.
"As the father yelled out, 'I love you, son!' he threw the life line out to his son's friend. By the time the father had pulled the friend back to the capsized boat, his son had disappeared beneath the raging swells into the black of night. His body was never recovered.
By this time the two teenagers were sitting up straight in the pew. Anxiously waiting for the next words to come out of the old minister's mouth.
"The father," he continued, "knew his son would step into eternity with Jesus and he could not bear of thought of his son's friend stepping into eternity without Jesus. Therefore, he saved the son's friend.
"How great is the love of God that he should do the same for us. Our heavenly father sacrificed his only begotten son that we could be saved. I urge you to accept his offer to rescue you and take a hold of the life line he is throwing out to you in this service."
With that, the old man turned and sat back down in his chair as silence filled the room. The pastor again walked slowly to the pulpit and delivered a brief sermon with an invitation at the end. However, no one responded to the appeal. Within minutes, the two teenagers were at the old man's side.
"That was a nice story," one of them politely stated. "But I don't think it was very realistic for a father to give up his only son's life in hopes that the other boy would become a Christian."
"Well, you've got a point there," the old man replied, glancing down at his worn Bible. A big smile broadened his narrow face. He once again looked up at the boys and said, "It sure isn't very realistic, is it? But I'm standing here today to tell you that story gives me a glimpse of what it must have been like for God to give up his son for me.
"You see, I was that father. And your pastor is my son's friend."
After a few of the usual Sunday evening hymns, the church's pastor slowly stood up, walked over to the pulpit and - before he gave his sermon for the the evening - briefly introduced a guest minister who was in the the service that evening.
In the introduction, the pastor told the congregation that the guest minister was one of his dearest childhood friends and that he wanted him to have a few moments to greet the church and share whatever he felt would be appropriate for the service. With that, an elderly man stepped up to the pulpit and began to speak.
"A father, his son, and a friend of his son were sailing off the Pacific coast," he began, "when a fast approaching storm blocked any attempt to get back to the shore. The waves were so high, that even though the father was an experienced sailor, he could not keep the boat upright and the three were swept into the ocean as the boat capsized."
The old man hesitated for a moment, making eye contact with the two teenagers who were, for the first time since the service began, looking somewhat interested in his story.
The aged minister continued on: "Grabbing a rescue line, the father had to make the most excruciating decision of his life: to which boy would he throw the other end of the life line. He had only seconds to make the decision. The father knew that his son was a Christian and he also knew that his son's friend was not.
"The agony of his decision could not be matched by the torrent of waves.
"As the father yelled out, 'I love you, son!' he threw the life line out to his son's friend. By the time the father had pulled the friend back to the capsized boat, his son had disappeared beneath the raging swells into the black of night. His body was never recovered.
By this time the two teenagers were sitting up straight in the pew. Anxiously waiting for the next words to come out of the old minister's mouth.
"The father," he continued, "knew his son would step into eternity with Jesus and he could not bear of thought of his son's friend stepping into eternity without Jesus. Therefore, he saved the son's friend.
"How great is the love of God that he should do the same for us. Our heavenly father sacrificed his only begotten son that we could be saved. I urge you to accept his offer to rescue you and take a hold of the life line he is throwing out to you in this service."
With that, the old man turned and sat back down in his chair as silence filled the room. The pastor again walked slowly to the pulpit and delivered a brief sermon with an invitation at the end. However, no one responded to the appeal. Within minutes, the two teenagers were at the old man's side.
"That was a nice story," one of them politely stated. "But I don't think it was very realistic for a father to give up his only son's life in hopes that the other boy would become a Christian."
"Well, you've got a point there," the old man replied, glancing down at his worn Bible. A big smile broadened his narrow face. He once again looked up at the boys and said, "It sure isn't very realistic, is it? But I'm standing here today to tell you that story gives me a glimpse of what it must have been like for God to give up his son for me.
"You see, I was that father. And your pastor is my son's friend."
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. [John 3:16]
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Why Are Dogs So Disgusting?
As per the vet's instructions I got a poop sample from Princess and took it in yesterday. They called back soon after to let us know she had hookworms. I was to come in and pick up some pills for her.
Princess is still having some potty-training issues (perhaps that's why she was abandoned). Early this morning was no exception - she left a sample in our bathroom. I know that because I caught Addie eating it. Although Addie is a prissy poodle, she's just one of those gross dogs. Her favorite delicacy is kitty bon-bons which she finds in Snoopy's litter box if we don't scoop them in time.
Anyhow, when I got to the vet's office this morning to pick up Princess' prescription, I asked if Addie might need one also due to her snacking habits. So $48 later, I came home with two little pills for Princess (of which she was to take one-and-a-half), and two big pills for Addie (of which she was to take both). The hookworms had better be cleared up.
Why are dogs so disgusting?
Princess is still having some potty-training issues (perhaps that's why she was abandoned). Early this morning was no exception - she left a sample in our bathroom. I know that because I caught Addie eating it. Although Addie is a prissy poodle, she's just one of those gross dogs. Her favorite delicacy is kitty bon-bons which she finds in Snoopy's litter box if we don't scoop them in time.
Anyhow, when I got to the vet's office this morning to pick up Princess' prescription, I asked if Addie might need one also due to her snacking habits. So $48 later, I came home with two little pills for Princess (of which she was to take one-and-a-half), and two big pills for Addie (of which she was to take both). The hookworms had better be cleared up.
Why are dogs so disgusting?
Okay, It's Hot Now
We have been really blessed with our spring this year. Usually we've had our first 100-degree day well before now. This year we didn't hit it until last Sunday when when the mercury briefly touched the century mark. Then it cooled down into the lower 90's. And then it hit again. Really hit. Today it was 107. Tomorrow we're expected to hit 110. Typical June weather. Great. Okay, it's hot now.
Monday, May 16, 2005
To Tithe or Not To Tithe?
In one of the Google Ads in the sidebar of this blog, I noticed one in particular that got my attention. It said Tithing is Un-Scriptural.
Oh really? I said to myself. But I decided to read what L. Ray Smith had to say. And you know what? He's right!
I searched the Scriptures myself. There is nothing in the New Testament that says we are required to tithe. Instead we are encouraged give freely, and gladly. God doesn't want 10% of your paycheck. He wants 100% of your heart.
Consider these verses:
A year ago you were the first ones to give, and you gave because you wanted to. So listen to my advice. I think you should finish what you started. If you give according to what you have, you will prove that you are as eager to give as you were to think about giving. It doesn't matter how much you have. What matters is how much you are willing to give from what you have. I am not trying to make life easier for others by making life harder for you. But it is only fair for you to share with them when you have so much, and they have so little. Later, when they have more than enough, and you are in need, they can share with you. Then everyone will have a fair share, just as the Scriptures say, "Those who gathered too much had nothing left. Those who gathered only a little had all they needed." [2 Cor 8:10-15]
Each of you must make up your own mind about how much to give. But don't feel sorry that you must give and don't feel that you are forced to give. God loves people who love to give. God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others. [2 Cor 9:7, 8]
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life--your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life--and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. [Romans 12:1, the Message]
Mr. Smith outlines these facts regarding Scriptural teaching of tithing:
Jesus said, "You will always have the poor..." (Matthew 26:11); so by all means, give to those organizations that help those less fortunate than you if you are blessed to be able and willing to do so.
Over the years, giving has increasingly become an important part of my spirtual life. We've reached a level of security where we are now giving about 10% of our income to support various ministries. A tenth of my wife's paychecks typically go to our own church. A tenth of my own paychecks are split mainly between two ministries - K-LOVE Radio and United Methodist Outreach Ministries (UMOM). My UMOM contribution is automatically deducted by my employer (who in turn matches my contribution dollar for dollar!).
It has been a leap of faith to increase our giving, but as we continue to do so, I feel God's blessing upon us.
In my mind and heart, I can hear the words of Jesus when he was asked about paying taxes: Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things which are God's. [Matthew 22:21]
There's no need to buy your way into Heaven. You are redeemed by the Blood of Christ. Show your gratitude as you see fit, and may you be blessed further.
Oh really? I said to myself. But I decided to read what L. Ray Smith had to say. And you know what? He's right!
I searched the Scriptures myself. There is nothing in the New Testament that says we are required to tithe. Instead we are encouraged give freely, and gladly. God doesn't want 10% of your paycheck. He wants 100% of your heart.
Consider these verses:
A year ago you were the first ones to give, and you gave because you wanted to. So listen to my advice. I think you should finish what you started. If you give according to what you have, you will prove that you are as eager to give as you were to think about giving. It doesn't matter how much you have. What matters is how much you are willing to give from what you have. I am not trying to make life easier for others by making life harder for you. But it is only fair for you to share with them when you have so much, and they have so little. Later, when they have more than enough, and you are in need, they can share with you. Then everyone will have a fair share, just as the Scriptures say, "Those who gathered too much had nothing left. Those who gathered only a little had all they needed." [2 Cor 8:10-15]
Each of you must make up your own mind about how much to give. But don't feel sorry that you must give and don't feel that you are forced to give. God loves people who love to give. God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others. [2 Cor 9:7, 8]
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life--your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life--and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. [Romans 12:1, the Message]
Mr. Smith outlines these facts regarding Scriptural teaching of tithing:
- only landowners tithed
- only [agricultural] products of the land were tithed
- only Levites could receive the tithes
- tithing was a Law of Moses
- Christians are not under the Law of Moses
Jesus said, "You will always have the poor..." (Matthew 26:11); so by all means, give to those organizations that help those less fortunate than you if you are blessed to be able and willing to do so.
Over the years, giving has increasingly become an important part of my spirtual life. We've reached a level of security where we are now giving about 10% of our income to support various ministries. A tenth of my wife's paychecks typically go to our own church. A tenth of my own paychecks are split mainly between two ministries - K-LOVE Radio and United Methodist Outreach Ministries (UMOM). My UMOM contribution is automatically deducted by my employer (who in turn matches my contribution dollar for dollar!).
It has been a leap of faith to increase our giving, but as we continue to do so, I feel God's blessing upon us.
In my mind and heart, I can hear the words of Jesus when he was asked about paying taxes: Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things which are God's. [Matthew 22:21]
There's no need to buy your way into Heaven. You are redeemed by the Blood of Christ. Show your gratitude as you see fit, and may you be blessed further.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
I Think We'll Call Her 'Princess'
Fast asleep in a cat bed.
Our new puppy continues to get along well, albiet with a couple of accidents in the house (but she's smart, and she's starting to get it). I've got her signed up for puppy training at Petsmart.
A trip to the vet confirmed she's likely a mix of chihuahua, Jack Russell terrier, and/or rat terrier. He estimated her age to be between 10 months and a year. Her health is good, aside from being a little underfed. He also scanned her for a implanted microchip - she has none. She goes back in four weeks to get another booster and possibly to schedule her for getting spayed.
I'm very pleased at how well our puppy is socializing. Addie and Snoopy are a little annoyed with her at times, but that's life. The other day Snoopy hissed at her when she followed him into the kitchen with her nose in his butt (hey, if you're a cat walking around with your tail in the air, expect it!). Our grandson J spent the night with us last night and met her for the first time. No problem at all - they get along great. In fact, he's just big enough and she's just little enough that he was able to pick her up and put her in Grandma's lap. This morning J and I took both dogs out for a walk to the park, and it went just fine.
Probably the hardest thing to figure out the new puppy is what to name her. Several names have come up; I think we'll call her "Princess."
Our new puppy continues to get along well, albiet with a couple of accidents in the house (but she's smart, and she's starting to get it). I've got her signed up for puppy training at Petsmart.
A trip to the vet confirmed she's likely a mix of chihuahua, Jack Russell terrier, and/or rat terrier. He estimated her age to be between 10 months and a year. Her health is good, aside from being a little underfed. He also scanned her for a implanted microchip - she has none. She goes back in four weeks to get another booster and possibly to schedule her for getting spayed.
I'm very pleased at how well our puppy is socializing. Addie and Snoopy are a little annoyed with her at times, but that's life. The other day Snoopy hissed at her when she followed him into the kitchen with her nose in his butt (hey, if you're a cat walking around with your tail in the air, expect it!). Our grandson J spent the night with us last night and met her for the first time. No problem at all - they get along great. In fact, he's just big enough and she's just little enough that he was able to pick her up and put her in Grandma's lap. This morning J and I took both dogs out for a walk to the park, and it went just fine.
Probably the hardest thing to figure out the new puppy is what to name her. Several names have come up; I think we'll call her "Princess."
Graduation - Woohoo!
Yesterday was a rather momentous occasion in our family - our youngest daughter, E, graduated from college. Arizona State University-West to be exact. She now holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Global Business.
On Monday she will start an internship with an architectural engineering firm and start off on a journey as a real working adult. Woohoo!
On Monday she will start an internship with an architectural engineering firm and start off on a journey as a real working adult. Woohoo!
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Puppy Kisses
My wife S & I already have a couple geriatric pets, and we've talked a bit about what kind of pet we might like next. On account of S's cat allergy (which was diagnosed when we still had three cats) we thought a small dog would be nice. We seemed to have it narrowed down to a chihuahua or a Jack Russell terrier. Well, today S came home with this cute little thing. It was a stray hanging around S's school, and the resident animal rescuer thought this might be a good match for us. S wasn't sure how I'd react. Well, I fell in love. She barked a little when I came in through the door tonight. Then she ran up and greeted me, with her tail wagging and plenty of puppy kisses. She's a little skinny but seems pretty healthy otherwise, and quite well socialized with people, children (a.k.a small "people"), cats, and other dogs. She and Addie and Snoopy seem to get along okay. She looks like a mix between a chihuahua and a Jack Russell, perhaps as young as nine months but no older than two years - and seems mellower than a Jack Russell (thank God). She's very sweet (everyone at Petsmart seemed to think so). She didn't have a collar, and S's friend at school doesn't think anyone in the neighborhood will claim her (hard to believe). I told S to watch out for lost dog posters - and we'll give her up then. But in all likelihood, I think we have a new dog in the family.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
An Open Letter to Pastor Chan Chandler
The separation between church and state is not always a fine line. In the past week, a bizarre story out of North Carolina serves to underscore that fact.
At the East Waynesville Baptist Church last Monday night, nine church members were expelled for not supporting George W. Bush in the last election. A Washington Post article reports that prior to last November's election, Pastor Chan Chandler told his congregation "that anyone who planned to vote for Democratic Sen. John Kerry should either leave the church or repent..."
To Pastor Chandler, I say this:
- Respect the voter. Last I heard we had a secret ballot in this country. How I vote is none of your business. And if I choose to tell you how I voted, live with it.
- There is no such thing as a Republican Church or a Democrat Church (nor do we have red churches and blue churches - unless they happen to be painted that way purely for aesthetic purposes.
- If you want to be political, run for office.
- Remember the Gospel. Your political views are likely influenced by the Gospel message. Fine. Preach it. Then sit back and let the members of your church vote how they want. If they vote differently than you, love them anyway.
- Repent. None of us are perfect, and certainly not me. I write to you in the spirit of of the message of Matthew 18:15-17. A decision rendered in the voting booth is not yours to judge.
I won't tell you outright how I voted last November. If you read through this page, I think you can figure it out, and I think you can figure out that we're not too far apart in our political views. But what you did is way over the top, and way wrong. It is un-American and not Christ-like in the least.
My prayers are with you Pastor Chan. I pray that you truly can love your neighbors as yourself.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Runaway Bride
Well, it seems everyone else is talking about this, so I'll put in my two-cents worth.
Okay, so Jennifer Wilbanks pissed off a lot of people by foregoing her wedding. Yes, a lot of resources were used to go look for her and her imaginary captors. And yes, it's likely she broke the law in making a false report.
So what made her snap? C'mon people! A wedding with 14 bridesmaids and 14 groomsmen and 600 guests? My own wedding had just four bridesmaids, four groomsmen, two girls who were about to become my stepdaughters, and only 200 guests (the ringbearer, who became my nephew by the end of the ceremony, was pretty cute, though). Hey, wedding stress is enough to make anyone crazy.
If charged, it's my hope that Jennifer will plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge and get probation. What she did was wrong - a bad judgment decision under stress. But she doesn't deserve to go to jail over it. What I also hope is that Jennifer gets some help. Some professional counseling will do her some good.
I'm thankful that the groom and his family are forgiving. It's the Christian thing to do. It's the right thing to do. It will send Jennifer Wilbanks down the road to true healing. Amen.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
A Fantastic Bible Study Resource
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
A friend of mine told me about a really great website: e-sword.net. I've checked it out and I'm passing on the word (I'll provide a permanent link on this blog shortly).
This site provides free, downloadable Bible study software with copious volumes of resources for Bible study. The basic download includes the King James Version of the Bible, a commentary, a tool for setting up a Bible reading schedule, and a tool for keeping track of prayer requests. To augment your basic download, you can also download (for free) as many additional resources as you desire, including Bibles (28 English translations, 3 old English translations, and 47 foreign language translations - including Hebrew and Greek), commentaries, dictionaries, maps, graphics, devotions, and a whole bunch of other resources. It it's all very simple to use and there's lots of features to help you get the most out of your Bible study. One feature I really like is that you can create your own parallel Bible with up to four translations of your choosing. Cool!
As you may have gathered, I've already downloaded this gem and started using it. This is the most excited I've been about Bible study in quite some time. Thanks, J!
Saturday, April 23, 2005
No, But This Is Creepy
Some of you have said that my previous post regarding the prediction of the next (now current) Pope was creepy. But I have to disagree...these Burger King ads are creepy:
On Earth As It Is In Heaven
The word catholic by definition means universal; yet the Roman Catholic Church, staunchly holding on to its ancient practices, including the denial of Sacraments to those who are seen as unfit, hardly fits the mold of a universal church.
I’ve attended some beautiful Catholic masses, even communion masses. I even felt a part of the worship experience. But alas, I was not allowed communion. Funny, though. I was tempted to take part last week when I attended a funeral mass. How would they know I wasn’t Catholic? Probably because I don’t genuflect or cross myself very well.
When Jesus offered the first Holy Communion, he said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Notice he didn’t go on to say, “…except for...” Jesus ate with sinners and excluded no one from the Gospel. As we say in the United Methodist Church (and perhaps yours, too), “Christ invites to his table all who repent of their sins…”
Only Jesus Christ was the perfect human being. All of us are sinners. The one who says is not, is actually sinning just by saying so. No number of Hail Mary’s is needed to wash away your sins – God forgives you before you even utter the words. Talk about grace and mercy!
While it has been going on for quite some time in the United Methodist Church – as well as other denominations – the ordination of women into the clergy has been a hot-button issue. I still know of some people who changed churches because they were unhappy about a woman becoming their pastor. I wonder what they think now that the bishop of our conference is a woman. Frankly there is nothing in the Bible to suggest that women should not be ordained. In fact, Galatians 3:28-29 states that all Christians are equally gifted spiritually: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” My personal observations confirm this quite substantially.
Allowing priests to marry is a hot topic in the Roman Catholic Church. This probably originated from the Apostle Paul who stated that being unmarried frees one from concern, and allows one to dedicate their life to pleasing the Lord. (1 Corinthians 7:12) That’s quite understandable. However, I think human nature keeps us distracted from doing the Lord’s work anyway, married or not. I also think it would be more difficult for a celibate priest to objectively practice marriage counseling (unless he’s been married before). I also believe that marriage is the best way to practice a covenant relationship with God. In light of the dwindling numbers of Roman Catholic clergy, I think it’s time to let them marry. But what do I know? I’m just an ignorant Protestant.
The Roman Catholic Church wishes to reach out to more people. And I admire that Pope Benedict XVI is vowing to stand up for traditional Christian values. The Church has a deep-rooted tradition of beautiful and edifying art and music. But the fact of the matter is that the Roman Catholic Church is still too inclusive and unforgiving. In order to reach out, the church needs to abandon some of its man-made (dare I say Pharisee-like) practices, and to truly embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Glory of the Olive Elected Pope
I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades." Revelation 1:12a,17-18
Today I got a taste of how St. John must have felt when Christ came to him with the Revelation.
We have to back up two weeks. In a nutshell, I posted an article regarding the Prophecy of St. Malachy. According to this prophecy, which has been nearly impossible to discredit, the second-to-last pope was elected today. The prophetic phrase attributed to this pope is Gloria Olivae -The Glory of the Olive. The meaning of "olive" has been unclear. Perhaps it is a reference to the Mount of Olives where Jesus preached about the End of the Age (Matthew 24). It may also refer to the belief that this pope would come from the Order of St. Benedict (the Olivetans).
As far as I could tell as I studied the backgrounds of potential successors (notably Joseph Ratzinger), none were of the Order of St. Benedict. Then a thought was placed in my mind (and I quote myself from my April 5 post: "perhaps the next pope will take the name Benedict XVI..." Needless to say, I was anxiously awaiting the election of this new pope.
This morning around 9:00 there were murmurs around the office about the white smoke at the Vatican. Holy smokes! After logging into various news websites, I could confirm for myself that the new pope was elected. Not too surprisingly, it was Cardinal Ratzinger. Hmmm. In those first few moments, though, they hadn't said what name he took. Everyone was buzzing about the new pope now. I was getting anxious. C'mon, guys, what name did he take? Then when it first came up that he took the name Benedict XVI, I was absolutely stunned - shaky, even. Just like John must have felt when he found himself in Heaven with Christ. So the words I had conveyed were true.
It's interesting to note that St. Benedict himself predicted that before the end of the world, his Order would "triumphantly lead the Catholic Church in its fight against evil. " From what I've learned about Pope Benedict XVI so far, he strikes me as a man will do just that, standing up for fundamental Christian values in the face of considerable opposition.
I never imagined that I could share a word of prophecy - His Very Word - and it would come true. And yet God has used me in that capacity. It is very, very humbling - if it weren't for my faith, I'd be terrified right now. But just as Jesus comforted John, he is comforting me too. I just pray that I can remain attentive to God's promptings, and do whatever he has planned for me. Time is running short.
Keep watch, my brethren. Be vigilant.
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