A Christian Viewpoint

Liberals Win

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 19:00:00 +0000

There should be no surpriss that the Ontario Liberals have won tonight. It can be put down to the biggest electorial gaff done by Conservatives. What's he gaff? To extend educational monies to religious/private grade schools. I remember back when Ontario was called the big blue province. It was simply a matter of calling an election and watch Bill Davis government win again. Then Bill decided to dust off a promise he once made. He decided to extend funding from grade ten to grade twelve to the separate schools. This was Bill's parting gift as he was about to step down from leader. It passed. Shortly thereafter a election was called. The Big Blue machine was soundly trounced... by the NDP. Voter backlash for extending money to separate schools was the death knell that sounded riding after riding. When JohnTory promised to extend money to religious/private schools I heard the same tolling of the bell that defeated the PC's the last time around. I was shocked that he didn't think that it would be much of an issue.

A Reminder of a Warmer Time

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 19:00:00 +0000

I have been watching the weather radar and the approaching winter storm. My prayers have been somewhat answered so far... the snow keeps missing us. I know we will be getting hit sometime tonight. So, I was going through my kodak image files and saw a picture of a monarch resting on a sprig of lilac flowers. I thought it might be nice to show you something from a warmer time before the storm hits. I can just imagine what kind of pictures will be posted on the net tommorow.

First try

themuse — Tue, 02 Mar 2004 06:45:06 +0000

:doze: OK, tried a bit of configurating to change the layout and colours. Not bad so far I think. Now to get busy looking at all the other config options availlable to me. Only when I am satified will I connect to the web and see what happens.

:O I might as well see what this looks like while I'm at it.

This is the first

themuse — Tue, 02 Mar 2004 17:26:58 +0000

:D Well if I configured this puppy correctly I will be able to see some basic results. Where I go from here I am not certain. My Home on the net

A test for the second day

themuse — Tue, 02 Mar 2004 20:25:46 +0000

:) Now to see what this looks like when I make an entry for the second day. I know this may look rediculous but it is necessary to figure out what are the possibilitites of the program before I etch it in stone.

New Location - Welcome

themuse — Fri, 05 Mar 2004 22:15:16 +0000

:cool: Welcome to the new location of the ChristianMuse weblog. I am moving the posts I have made at tripod and placing them here. There will be about seven entries. I will then make new posts as time goes on. Comments are turned off at this time. I hope to turn them on in the future. God bless and happy reading.

Iraq…

themuse — Sun, 07 Mar 2004 19:14:41 +0000

Originally Posted at Tripod: Thursday, 30 October 2003

Iraq...

When will the press get it right and keep it right. Once again last night on several newscasts about Iraq they talked about those killed and wounded in the service of their country. The line has been crossed, they say, where the amount of casualties during the war has been surpassed by the casualties after the war.

In politics I expect politicians to be loose with the truth. With news agencies I need to know the facts. How else can you keep politicians "honest"? How can you address a situation correctly if the info is faulty?

The war in Iraq is not over. On the aircraft carrier president Bush said that the major combat phase was over. There are still objectives that need to be met before the war can be ended. Congress agreed to the war and its objectives. They are still not met.

It is bad enough that some democrats and others around the world muddy the waters by insisting or insinuating that the war is over and the US and other coalition forces should leave. It is worse that the guardians of the truth, the press, too often cannot get it right either.

If there is no truth... how will the people be set free: from tyranny, from terrorism, and every other ill that besets man.

So I cheer the truth and rage against the lies. When enough people stand for the truth - it will prevail. Then the captives will be set free. Amen.

Halloween - day after

themuse — Mon, 08 Mar 2004 08:37:03 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Saturday, 1 November 2003

Halloween - day after
The night of Halloween and a single knock came to the door. One child and adult braved the night to continue the tradition of the Druids.

Where have the children gone... into churches, malls and halls. There where the gifts and candy were closely monitored to prevent the tainting of treats with drugs, pins, razorblades. We have come a long way from when I was a child.

Being a Christian (conservative) I find I am sometimes torn between the time of innocence when we dressed to make fun of what scared us or delighted us, to the time where evil does walk the streets and things once praticed in innocence takes on a dark taint in today's world.

Today I look at greying sky and leaves turned gold and red. I think back to the good old days and wonder where have they gone. Sadly, the answer comes; they have given up on the truth of God to beleive a lie. What is that lie? Take your pick.

Today is a different age. Today has a different reality. Where now will the heart of man lead us? Perhaps into that greater diversity that the bible calls sin and others call choice.

So I am reflective this day with sadness as my companion. I will not stay here long. It is only a time for remembrance as I observe the view out my window.

Homosexual Evangelism?

themuse — Tue, 09 Mar 2004 17:58:49 +0000

Originally Updated at Tripod: Sunday, 9 November 2003 11:25 PM EST

Originally posted at Tripod: Tuesday, 4 November 2003

Homosexual Evangelism?

A couple of months ago the courts in Canada came to the decision that limiting marriage to one male with one female is contrary to the Charter of Rights. This case arose because an Ontario couple, both male, tried to get married to each other. When the case finally came to the Supreme Court of Ontario, the justices decided that not allowing them to marry was an act against their rights under the charter. They were then allowed to be married.

Last month a gay minister in the US was ordained a bishop in the Anglican Community. There is some strife among Anglicans that this was permitted and some church splitting will most likely result.

Is it my imagination? Since these two events, widely covered by the news, there seems to be a large number of programs that have brought forth the issue of homosexuality. Many programs seemed to have dipped into their archives to bring forward a program or two that had homosexuality as its central theme. Others had a favourable portrayal or comic relief of situations on this theme. Some even had two partners of the same sex kissing.

Is this homosexual evangelism? The term is an oxymoron, yet is it happening? Perhaps to some the term fits. Some people believe that Canada and the Church(US) are finally growing up and leaving hatred behind. Others, that darkness is spreading and the times are getting dangerous. Personally I believe that Canada and the Anglican Communion have taken another step closer toward the heart of Babel. How far away is the coming kingdom of the anti-christ? The whole world is headed in that direction. It will come about.

What to do? Pray for them (Canada, the Anglican Community and the homosexual) and walk according to the light that God has given you. He is the final Judge. Perhaps our prayers may yet pull someone into the light or back into the light. Support those who have a ministry to reach the homosexual. Yet in the end know this... only God can give light to the lost. Only He can create a new creature in them. In these days we are ministers of God's grace and mercy. Judgment will come from God soon enough for all unrepentant sinners, whatever their sin. Until then, with patience, speak the truth in love.

Spring Time Yet?

themuse — Wed, 10 Mar 2004 19:05:10 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Sunday, 9 November 2003

Spring Time Yet?

Last year I wrote a piece called "Winter Hope". In it I described my melancholy existence. To those that know me it comes as no surprise that my additions to the web have been pretty lean the last three years. (original content that is) What I find interesting is that the return of spring (emotional life cycle) may finally be approaching. If you have some time to pray, lift me up in prayer, then the Son's rising will warm my soul and new life can spring once again from the seed of God within me.
God bless and thanks.

Remembrance Day

themuse — Thu, 11 Mar 2004 21:51:16 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Tuesday, 11 November 2003

Remembrance Day

It is fitting that today it should be raining. Here in Canada it is Remembrance Day. It is a day when at 11:00am everything stops and people remember the sacrifices of those Canadians who have died in the service of our country. The politics that led to the wars are placed aside. Today we mourn the loss of children eager for war service and the professional soldiers who led them. War, the monster that devours life and leaves behind the carcasses of once living flesh. Someday the monster will be put to death. Until then remember the monster, the children, the soldier. Perhaps then the lust for war will diminish and life be given a chance to flourish.

Roy Moore, Chief Justice, Alabama Supreme Court

themuse — Fri, 12 Mar 2004 08:24:43 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Thursday, 13 November 2003

Roy Moore, Chief Justice, Alabama Supreme Court

"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to remain silent". Paraphrased the phrase... and I am certain someone could tell me the quote, the name, and the source. Roy Moore is a good man who did not remain silent. It cost him appointment. Others may try to get him disbarred as well. Who knows where it will go from here.

The United States is a Christian based nation. Canada is also a Christian based nation. In both countries there is an attack underway to subjugate Christianity and make it subservient to amoral principles, thus elevating the pseudo-religion of humanism. The liberal justices appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States in the 60's and 70's, and the ratification of the Charter of Rights in Canada, were the opening moves of the enemy to dismantle the Dominion of God over the people of both nations. When the state tries to compel someone to follow the state's dictates instead of the moral principles of God in their life, then that state must be resisted in that matter.

The bible says that you should be subject to those in authority over you, including the state that God has established. Yet we must also remember that we must obey God rather than man(read the state). When the two are in conflict, the higher authority must be obeyed. That is what Judge Roy Moore has done. "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand". Eph 6:13 NKJV

Thank you, Judge Roy Moore, for standing up for the God of the US Constitution and The Bill of Rights, and continuing to stand against those who would deny His hand in the history of your nation. It is my hope that you will not be a lone voice crying in the wilderness.

Revival

themuse — Sun, 14 Mar 2004 18:35:35 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Sunday, 16 November 2003

Revival

The Spirit of God moves in one of His people, and a slumbering spirit becomes conscious of God. The conscience of the man is pricked by the questions; what have I done, where have I been, what have I missed?

The reply echoes in the heart of this man; you have done nothing, you have been absent, you have missed everything! "What should I do?", replies the man. Send up your prayers, into the heavenly temple, for the fulness of His Spirit to fall.

The man repents and humbles himself, calling for the Spirit to come, into his heart, and into that of another. Then the Spirit of God moves in another of His people, and one more slumbering spirit awakens.

Again and again, prayer is raised, until even those who are not His people are moved by the presence of God.

Asteroid - future impact

themuse — Mon, 15 Mar 2004 18:38:39 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Monday, 24 November 2003

Asteroid - future impact

Tonight I watched a special on CBC about potential asteroid impacts and what can be done about them. Everytime the subject comes up they are sure to say they have no idea when an impact could occur. Ranging from today upwards to 10's of thousands of years.

In Revelations two impacts are foretold. One is an asteroid and the other is most likely a small comet. There will be great loss of life after each of their impacts. These are only two of the catastrophies that will occur before the return of Jesus to set up His kingdom. These two objects are out there right now, approaching our planet, carrying with it the judgment of God. They were made for those days.

Will man, if they can see there approach, try to stop them? Yes, if the anti-christ has anything to do with it. Will they succeed in deflecting them? No! Hopefully there will be some who will repent at there coming, yet they will still fall.

The time of their visitation is not too far off. For those who are left behind on the earth to face these heralds of judgment, make peace with God. For those who are alive today, love God and do what is right. When the Son calls be ready. As with Noah so with us today, when the door of the ark is closed only those inside are saved, it is too late for those who would not believe.

Big Brothers Association of Canada

themuse — Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:47:19 +0000

Originally posted at Tripod: Wednesday, 31 December 2003

Big Brothers Association of Canada

I remember when they first called us some twenty years ago. At that time we were helping ministries with finances through telephone solicitations. They would call and we would respond with a donation. Many organizations benefited.

Then things got a bit tight and we needed to tighten our belts. When we told organizations that we could not help them in that particular year, they responded by not calling for about another year. Except for one group... Big Brothers.

We supported them the longest of all of them. They were the last organization we gave money to. When we said we could not help them one year they responded, we thought, like the others. A few months later we got another call from them. We said we couldn't help. Another few months another call. And another call and another call.

We finally got so upset with them we asked to be taken off their list. Then we got another call and another call... etc.

In the last four years we have gotten dozens of calls. Everytime we said not to call again. They called again. Over the years we got so upset with them that we vowed never to give money to any organization that called us.

Last month I got a call from them again. I got a call from them again today. Will it ever end? No other organization has been so persistent and can I say it... abusive.

They do a great work and one that is needed. Their telephone work needs a major overhaul. Am I alone in this? I think not. Someday perhaps they will show a bit of christian charity to those who want to help. In the meanwhile, everyone loses who calls my home.

Why?

Because I don't need to find another with the same tactics.

What a shame.

As in Corinth so in the West

themuse — Sat, 20 Mar 2004 04:26:23 +0000

I recently made an addition to my site. Here is a bit of what I wrote...

--------------

Leaven - compromising the truth.

There is a right way to live and there is a wrong way to live. Sin has consequences. I am not writing about eternal salvation. Sexual promiscuity causes the spread of sexual diseases. It also weakens the family structure. The more "freedom" that is allowed the more danger becomes inherent in their daily living. There is a holy model of sex between one man and one woman, pledged to each other. When a little bit of compromise is added to that model, the situation becomes plastic and more compromises are sure to follow. Error and sin then become so normal a way of life that people begin to think it is a basic right and they are free to indulge their carnal impulses in any fashion that pleases them. This was the evolving case at Corinth.

-------------

:plain: I just want to add that this "evolving" has been happening in Western Europe, Canada and the USA. The child killed in the womb to sexual promiscuity to ???? Euthenasia is also making inroads into the consciouness of our citenzenry. How much further will a people drift before common sense or just plain conscience awakens. Too bad we don't have an Apostle Paul living today with the moral authority to bring sense to a people and their governments in the West.

First year anniversary of Iraq war.

themuse — Tue, 23 Mar 2004 08:36:15 +0000

:angry: On Saturday, one year ago, the US led coalition invaded Iraq. On Saturday I read my local newspaper. I watched CNN, CBC and other stations. I was so angry at the reporting, commentary and the left leaning slant of it all (the war reportage in retrospect). That is why I am writing today after a bit of steam has blown off and the engine inside my head cooled. I wondered how can the media, specially that in Canada, be so anti-american and anti Bush. On Sunday I watched a program on TVO where a special speaker had a chance to speak his view. Amazingly he gave an hour long talk on anti-Americanism and where the roots of it originated. Knowing now the brief history of anti-Americanism in Canada, add to that a conservative like Pres Bush, I can see how some (most?) Canadians can go ballistic in regards to US actions.

Now that being said... It is as I wrote in an ealier post about Iraq and the media. If they can't get their facts straight they would serve the community better by remaining silent. In an age like ours we can no longer afford the luxury of miss-informed(?) rhetoric passing for news. If politics remain as usual then all I can say is pray for the world. People are going to die because some benefit from speaking falsehoods. The rest form opinions on these errors and falsehoods. Until we desire truth more than anything else... our actions will never be right except by accident.

Home Meeting

themuse — Fri, 16 Apr 2004 13:52:54 +0000

:) It has been a little quiet on the site over the last three weeks. What has been happening is that I have become involved in a home meeting at a friends house. It is still in the discovery phase as people are seeking the face of the Lord to get direction. I have given a couple of lessons. My first thought was that I would be able to write shortened versions for the net. It became apparent very quickly that the lessons were dynamic and specific for the people who are gathering at my friends home. I will be going back to what I started a couple of months ago and write commentaries on passages of the bible. These subjects are being taken from the "Daily Read" section of the site.

A nice blog to visit

themuse — Fri, 23 Apr 2004 16:30:06 +0000

:) A couple of days ago I was doing a search engine check on my web name "ChristianMuse". I saw a new addition to the regular listings. I dropped over to her site and was delighted by what I found. I left her a comment and she had the grace to write back and ask if she was infringing on my name. That my friends is thoughtful. As a web name, I said go ahead and use it. What is even nicer, she put a link on her blog to my site. Thanks Rita. Here is her url...

http://savedbygrace.blogdrive.com/

Prayer Request for My Father

themuse — Wed, 05 May 2004 16:40:07 +0000

:( I would like you to pray for my father, Fred, who has been in the hospital for the past four days. He has pneumonia and is in isolation. Although he appears to be doing well the bug is stubborn and is taking its time to clear his lungs. It appears to be a recurring problem. Pray that he recovers and that the bug is finally cleared completely from his body. Many thanks...

:) My Father has been released from the hospital. I want to thank those who took the time to pray. God bless you all.

Spin Spin and Spin Again

themuse — Mon, 10 May 2004 18:21:13 +0000

:O So Rumsfeld gave testimony before the Senate and the House. Listened to all six hours. Finally got all the answers I was hoping to find. From what I received he did the best job that he could under the conditions he found himself in. Perhaps now congress can pass a special law when it comes to war crimes and give the ability to open a file under investigation without breaking the command line influence regulations. After all, that was, is and is going to be the problem for future secretaries. Perhaps an omsbudsman of some kind? Someone outside the chain of command who can look to find incidents like prisoner of war abuse and pass it to the higher ups before it can cause political problems as there are today.

:( Spin... I listened to the first news reports that were released by the press in the US and Canada. What was reported took literary license to what the testimony actually was. Ok that is not too bad. What I did find sad was the downplaying of the process that is part of the problem. The down playing of the time-line was also a great dis-service.

:angry: Spin... Then came the politicians who are trying to paint Rumsfeld in the worse light possible and then trying to stain the President with the same tarnished brush. Truth seems to be always missing in these attacks.

:crazy: Spin Again... the news agencies then pick up these political droppings as jewels of truth and pass on the errors, misconceptions and lies as news. What of the man and woman on the street have to say over this? Depends on when they came into the loop. If they heard the testimony they should be a bit miffed that facts are becoming the first casualties of this new attack against the White House. Those who pick up the news last will be incensed by Rumsfeld's supposed failure to handle the situation before it became known.

:satisfied: Well. politics is politics and truth is in the eye of the beholder. Someday truth will not be in the eye of the beholder, it will be shouted from the rooftops, it will be declared from Mount Zion. Someday the true judge will visit the earth and only then can there be an honest expection of truth with facts as their foundation. In the meanwhile, I look ahead to those days when Jesus will rule from Jerusalem. Until then... I bite my tongue and rest in the hope that in the end God wins.

Last Night’s Lesson

themuse — Tue, 11 May 2004 19:24:07 +0000

:) Last night we had a bible study at a friend's house. The topic was based on Rev 3:18 and the Laodicean church. The passage talks about buying from God gold tried in the fire, obtaining garments to cover our nakedness and to receive eye salve so that we may see. All good things to get but how?

From other lessons it became obvious that the only way to receive these things was to go into prayer, praise and worship. It is not that the actions themselves will pass on these blessings. These activities can be done on automatic without engaging your spirit. What is important is to bring your spirit into these activities looking with your spiritual senses to see Jesus. It is as we face Jesus in the heavenly realm that the Spirit of God begins to open the eyes of we who seek Jesus and through his priesthood our Father God. While engaged in this activity the Spirit changes us and prepares for us to receive the blessings and more importantly he changes us to be more like Jesus in heart and mind.

The Father is looking for those who will worship him in spirit and in truth. If we take the time in prayer, praise and worship, the Spirit will do its work in us and through us. The Spirit will prepare us to be the bride of Christ for when Jesus returns.

As with all people, the only answer is to spend time with God: individually and corporately.

American Sign Language

themuse — Mon, 17 May 2004 18:04:25 +0000

:D Over the past three months my wife and I have been taking the first ASL course that is offered to beginners. Very basic signing and learning to also finger spell. Yesterday my wife informed me that we have both passed the course. I guess we will be taking the next two courses for ASL being offered soon.

I can talk to my wife and others who sign over a fair distance or extreme noisy conditions. There is also the benefit to communicate without disturbing others in a quiet environment. In the end though there is the purpose it is designed for, to communicate to a deaf person who needs help or simply wants to "talk". Like my limited french it can be very useful and helpful in some circumstances. My suggestion... everyone should get the very basics under their belt. You may find for yourself that using it can also be an advantage to you and to others that you meet.

My Father

themuse — Wed, 09 Jun 2004 19:39:25 +0000

:( Last month I came to you and asked that you would pray for my father who was in the hospital due to pneumonia. He recovered yet the disease was not fully cleared from his body. On Friday, June 4th, he was admitted to the hospital once again for pneumonia and additional problems. On Saturday my sister and I had a chance to visit him. He was suffering and wanted to die. I prayed for him to recover and added that when the time for his departing was at hand that he would be taken quickly. The time for his passing was that day in the evening. Now my father rests from his struggles in the bossom of his Lord and Saviour. We will meet again in the ressurection. I mourn his passing but will joy in the morning when all things are made new. Thanks again for those who prayed for my father. Your prayers will be remembered. God bless...

Web Additions

themuse — Wed, 16 Jun 2004 16:45:24 +0000

:doze: I thought I would give a bit of an update to my repeat visitors. You may be wondering about a lack of additions to the site over the past month. Yes, my father dying did have an impact. Yesterday I tried to get something started and when I went to print my printer died on me again. I print all my material so I can work at it away from my computer. Hopefully a new printer... a new computer... is not far away. I should be able to get things up and running again shortly after the purchase. God bless...

Comments Section Enabled?

themuse — Wed, 16 Jun 2004 16:55:09 +0000

:plain: I wrote when I started this weblog that I would enable comments when I thought it safe to do so. Looking at my logs recently I have noticed that one or more persons have been trying to hack into the weblog through restricted access pages. Why is the net not as great as it could be? Because there are people who would wreck the work of others for a sense of perverse enjoyment. So as a precaution I will not be opening this weblog to comments from others. Until I find a way to protect the site better, things will remain as they are. If you are willing to give your email address and get a password, you can then use the forum to start (I hope) a discussion string.

An Ecclesiastes Day

themuse — Wed, 23 Jun 2004 18:22:52 +0000

:laugh: There are two shortcut philosophies about life. The first says: live your life as if this were the last day of your life; so better get my affairs in order. The second says: today is the first day of the rest of your life; so better make some plans. I began to ponder these two thoughts on life. I melded them into one thought. Since this is the first day of the rest of my life and I should live as though it were also the last day... I came to a same similar conclusion to that of Solomon the great... leave a goodbye note then eat, drink and be merry for tommorow we die.

hmmm... Maybe I need to think this one through a little more ;)

Election in Canada

themuse — Mon, 28 Jun 2004 18:46:28 +0000

:) Today my wife and I go to the polls to cast our ballot for our riding representative. In years past the selection was so lean I would simply go to reject the ballot. That my friends is a very serious statement to send to the parties and Elections Canada. However, this time around: the Reform, Alliance, or whatever they called themselves over the years and the Progressive (read Regressive) Conservative Party; have finally come together and healed the rift in the Conservative community. Today I cast a vote. My, what a wonderful day to be a voter again.

note* Perhaps the BQ in Quebec will see they are true conservatives, not seperatists, and the healing of all the conservative people in Canada will be complete.

My Introduction to Tongues

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 17:56:16 +0000

When I was a child I use to have horrific nightmares. They became so bad that I began to fear going to sleep. One day I felt the urge to simply blabber in what I thought was a foreign tongue. You know, just like any kid making it up. Funny though, I never felt that it was a make believe language. I felt compelled to mouth these non-sense words.

The following evening I went to sleep and slept like a baby.

Several years later I once again began having the nightmares. After a couple of nights I remembered that the last time I spoke that make believe language my nightmares ceased. What the heck I thought. I began once again to let the words tumble from my mouth. I had no idea what I was saying. Once again the nightmares stopped. This was pretty wonderful stuff.

Twenty years later I found myself attending some Pentecostal meetings. People spoke in tongues and I thought they were jabbering non-sense. I read the bible and found tongues mentioned. After many meetings and reading the bible through a couple of times I began to want to speak with tongues. Couldn't figure out how to do it.

One night I was asking God about tongues and that I wanted to be blessed with the spiritual gift so that I may talk in an unknown tongue. At that moment God dropped into my consciousness that I had spoken in tongues twice when I was a child. I was surprised. I thought, "is that all there is to it, open your mouth and start speaking jibberish?" God said, "no". He said to start speaking as I did as a child and the Spirit will impress my mind so that the words would be real. I did it by faith. No great shaking revelations but I found that my spirit was more open to his Spirit when I did this.

I have been speaking in tongues like this for 20+ years now. A few times I spoke tongues and basked in the power of the Spirit. Most times it is simply my spirit chatting away to God, and sometimes would result in watching a spiritual door open. I often begin prayer by speaking in tongues in this fashion. I do it whenever I want.

It is comforting. It is helpful. It is...

:)

In the Name of Jesus

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 17:57:00 +0000

I remember watching movies that were centered around the Roman Empire. Somewhere in the plot there usually comes along a man with much authority. He holds up what looks like a short decorative rod. Then says, "in the name of Caesar...". I thought the rod was the symbol of power. In fact it is not the symbol of power, it is a decorative case. It is the carrying case of a piece of paper. On that piece of paper is the written authorization for the holder to carry out the command of Caesar. When he spoke holding the rod he was "the voice of Caesar."

As born again Christians we do not have a piece of paper in a rod. We have the Spirit of the Word of God inside our mortal bodies. We have all the authority that the Spirit gives us. It is our gift and our responsibility to carry out his word. When we lay hold of the Spirit within us we are speaking as "the voice of Jesus."

That is an awesome responsibility.

In the name of Jesus...

:)

About signs in the heavens… Astrology, Astronomy or Prophecy?

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 17:58:56 +0000

The sun, moon and stars are for signs, times and seasons.

Gen 1.14And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:

One interesting note is something found in the scriptures that a star will rise in the house of Jacob. Magi in the east saw a star rising in some constellation relating to Israel and knew from the scripture that the king of prophecy had been born but not where. They discovered it was Bethlehem only when the wisemen of Herod's court told them.

Num 24.17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.

Matt 2.1Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 3When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 5And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 6And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

Now is this a sign? If so, is it similar to astrology or is it something completely different? Do you have an alternate understanding?

Have fun with it.

:)

The Call to Ministry? A Spiritual Witness!

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 17:59:47 +0000

Those who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons (and daughters) of God. It is through his leading that you begin to do the works of God. If by his leading you end up in part-time or full-time ministry, you can they say you were called.

It is like becoming a Christian. God's Spirit had been preparing you for salvation for days, months or years. When the time was right you heard a message and the Spirit witnessed with your spirit that it was true. You accepted the Lordship of Jesus over your life.

There will come moments when the Spirit says in your heart, "do this", and it will be a ministry of service. That is the call. It can be a onetime affair up to a lifetime ministry.

:)

About deacons and the call to ministry

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 18:00:34 +0000

Someone said that the office of deacon can be taken without neccesarily having been called to that ministry.

All ministry should have its seed in the call of the Spirit in your life. If that will lead one to being a deacon then all is well.

However, many people through ignorance, immaturity or self-aggrandizement would like to take on a mantle for which they have not been called. Sometimes a person through the use of coercion, manipulation or flattery has been made a deacon. Sometimes, through selfishness or envy, those with the ministry are held back by those in authority. This is not just for the office of deacon but for all ministries.

We are told to beware of wolves in sheep's clothing. Sometimes the wolf thinks he is a lamb. Sometimes he knows he is a wolf. Others may be clueless as to those seeking the office. That is why there are many in the wrong ministry calling.

Again, only those who are led of the Spirit are the sons (and daughters) of God. The rest are "want to be's". The discerning spirit can tell the difference.

:)

Word of Knowledge

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 18:01:34 +0000

I recently saw someone's understanding of requirements for a word of knowledge. They were only partially right.

A word of knowledge is simply information. It can be something from the past, present or future. It does not give direction of what to do but is simply what was, what is and what will be. The information in the word does not have to be known by anyone before hand. It may or may not be discoverable by any means at our disposal.

A word of knowledge can at some point in time be accompanied by a word of wisdom. It is not neccesary though to have these two manifestations present at the same time. Only the Spirit of God can impart this knowledge.

The enemy has a type of "word of knowledge". One must have discernment to know who, God or the enemy, is the one imparting the word.

:)

Topics copied to here

themuse — Sat, 26 Feb 2005 18:02:40 +0000

I am keeping an additional copy of posts to another weblog here. :D

A play on words. A lesson learned?

themuse — Sun, 27 Feb 2005 20:32:48 +0000

As the Spirit leads so should we read. If we are led not of the Spirit our spirits are lead weights in the world. If we read not we are reeds blown about by the winds.

;)

Witchcraft in Galatians 5

themuse — Mon, 28 Feb 2005 04:40:09 +0000

Galatians 5 [19] Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, [20] Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, [21] Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Witchcraft in this sense has more to do with drugs and sometimes trying to divine the past, present, future or contact with spirits, through its mind altering effects. This is a work of the flesh in line with Eve's "something to make one wise" by eating "the fruit" in the Genesis fall account. Can be said to be the first act of witchcraft in the bible.

:)

The Desert - A Glacier

themuse — Mon, 07 Mar 2005 02:07:32 +0000

Tonight I saw a desert. You could see the heat rippling the air above it. I saw a glacier. The air so cold it pulled all the moisture from the air. Where the desert met the glacier a moderation took place. The water running off the glacier fed the dry sands of the desert. There, in that strip of land, at that moment of time, the land came to life because of the water. The church, meeting together, is the same way. No matter the heated conflicts or the coldness of those around you, life comes forth where the two meet. Thank God for the meeting.

:)

Problems Receiving a Healing

themuse — Sat, 12 Mar 2005 18:54:49 +0000

Someone asked why do some Christians treat other Christians with physical problems as second class citizens of heaven? Do the sick lack faith, have hidden sin, etc.?

I have seen the same thing at work in a few other Christians. By no means are they the majority, except in some churches. There are many reasons why people do not have the healing they need. In a fully functioning church with all the gifts in manifestation and a heart of compassion I believe there would be many more healings in the church. Either the gift is missing or there is a lack of compassion, that creates the atmosphere for denial.

I find it peculiar that people lay the blame for someone not being healed at the feet of the hurting. Jesus himself told the people around him that they were off the mark when he said that they would take up this proverb against him... "physician heal thyself!" It seems we too have people going about saying the same thing to the hurting. Physician heal thyself... have we forgotten that Jesus is the great physician. If there is something blocking the healing it is up to the church to intercede on their behalf. But, without the gifts in full manifestation... only the easy ones are healed. You know, not the severity of the problem but those with no blocks to hinder.

In the end it is the grace of God not a formula nor the spouting of words spoken in presumption.

:)

Have You Felt PIP

themuse — Sat, 12 Mar 2005 18:59:27 +0000

Have you felt the "Powerful Intimate Presence" of God? If you have you are witness to only a foreshadowing of what it will be like when our Lord returns in the heavens to snatch away his bride, the church. Know Him! More and more this day and everyday; and perfectly when he arrives.

:)

A Spiritual Enema?

themuse — Tue, 15 Mar 2005 16:32:01 +0000

I read a post that talked about an evangelist speaking about people needing a spiritual enema.

It does seem crude but I certainly can see the point... One good dose of the Holy Spirit and all the spiritual and carnal filth you have been constipated with gets flushed out of your system. Seems to me that there are quite a few people who could use such a purgative. Hmmm.... come to think of it, it wouldn't hurt me to get one on occasion. eww... What a mental image picture! wow... What a wonderful God! That evangelist certainly has a peculiar message and a needed work of God in others.

:)

Eternity in heaven or hell?

themuse — Thu, 17 Mar 2005 18:37:32 +0000

Heaven may be an interesting place. Hell may be a terrible place. According to Revelations everyone will be resurrected. Those who accepted "the faith" in whatever dispensation they were in will find themselves on a new earth with the new city of God, which is the residence of the Lamb, come down from heaven. Those who rejected "the faith" in whatever dispensation they were in will find themselves in the lake of fire. Heaven and hell are but rest stops to the final destination which is home again on the renewed earth for the faithful and the lake of fire for the rest.

:O

What Is Prayer?

themuse — Sat, 19 Mar 2005 19:34:27 +0000

A conversation. Sometimes as baby just crying out with no reason why. As a child needing help or asking for help for others. As a teen too full of words and not enough language to speak them precisely. As an adult with knowledge and wisdom birthed of the Spirit. And tongues, when none of the above is fit for the purpose.

:)

Foundation Principle of Marriage

themuse — Sat, 19 Mar 2005 20:27:15 +0000

Gen 2:24 "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."

This is the fundamental concept of marriage. In later years sexual acts and who you can do them with became more restricted. There is no place within scripture where this basic model was repealed.

If the state wishes to include man with man or woman with woman, that is a state law. If some churches follow that pattern they will be judged according to "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus." Because of this, I am content to leave the final judgment in God's hands.

There are times for learning and times for repentance. The Spirit will bring light to the word of God people have heard or read. What they do with it is up to them. If they choose wrongly, there may be a few more people looking on who are not allowed into the kingdom. It is faith that counts... but it is the faith that rests on God's word for its foundation.

:)

About Manifestations

themuse — Mon, 21 Mar 2005 00:18:43 +0000

Someone complained about holy laughter, rolling on the floor or barking like a dog.

It does not matter whether someone barks like a dog, gets slain in the spirit or laughs large. They can be manifestations of: the Spirit, a spirit, a mental disease, suggestiveness, or a plain and simple show. What is important is to have the discernment to know which of these they are. I have seen the rolling, heard the barking and chuckled along with the laughter. Sometimes I knew it was the Spirit. Sometime I knew it was one of the other reasons. Most times I didn't know. One must be careful not to smudge the working of the Spirit. Listen to those you know have discernment to judge each act on its own. Then act or not accordingly. I find it is too easy these days for churches to quench the Spirit because of bad calls. Fear and bad judgment has taken its toll on the church.

In a furthur response...

Since you posted this under my sub-thread I would ask where is the problem? I have said that all manifestations need to be discerned as to origin. From what you write, if it doesn't look holy it can be suspect... and some things you reject out of hand, like dog barking. So I fear the selectiveness is part of your post. Read my post again.

As for dog barking... I have heard it in several meetings that I have attended. Once the Spirit witnessed with me that is was of the enemy. The other times I received no witness from the Spirit as to the root of the manifestation. Yet I will not say they were of God or not of God... no witness... no knowing. But like you I can give a pretty good guess. But guessing in these cases, as in all cases, is dangerous. If an angel of light appeared and told me something... without a witness from the Spirit I would not be too hasty to jump at the angel's word. The enemy can appear as a messenger of the light. So can those who are his human servants.

The key is Discernment!

:)

Jesus became sin? 2 Cor 5:21

themuse — Mon, 21 Mar 2005 18:02:00 +0000

A heated discussion about what it means by Jesus became sin. This was my response to the discussion.

This discussion is like one over the word impute. As when Abraham believed God and that belief was imputed to Abraham for righteousness. Was the righteousness of Abraham real? Was it his or just a word game that righteousness rested on him but really wasn't a part of him? Jesus on the cross had the sin(s) of the world imputed to him. If Jesus, who knew no sin, was given the sin, and he embraced it for his own, then when he died on the cross those sins were actually paid for. So was the sin his or not his? When you agree to take on the debt of another person do you not become the debtor? It is a game of semantics that can become very dangerous in its final outcome. As I see this thread going...

Regardless of what impute means, I thank God for the sacrifice that Jesus made to pay for the sin(s).

:)

Where is the blasphemy?
A further response dated 22 March, 2005

I say with Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Sounds to me that our sins were imputed to Jesus. If the word of God says that the iniquity of us all has been laid on Jesus... and I agree with that statement, how could I be wrong? You mentioned 1st Peter... but only one who is pure and not stained with iniquity can take on our sins (or as 1st Peter 2:24 writes "bore our sins in his body") to pay for them. Everyone else dies because of their own sin. You mentioned 2 John... but that has to do with; following his commandment to love and to believe that Jesus came in the flesh.

Your response does not answer my question... "When you agree to take on the debt of another person do you not become the debtor?"

:)

A Tongue Twister

themuse — Tue, 29 Mar 2005 17:35:25 +0000

Mr. See and Mr. Soar were old friends. See
owned a saw and Soar owned a seesaw. Now
See's saw sawed Soar's seesaw before Soar
saw See, which made Soar sore. Had Soar
seen See's saw before See saw Soar's seesaw,
then See's saw would not have sawed Soar's
seesaw. But See saw Soar's seesaw before
Soar saw See's saw so See's saw sawed Soar's
seesaw. It was a shame to let See see Soar
so sore because See's saw sawed Soar's seesaw.

:)

About Tithes

themuse — Tue, 29 Mar 2005 18:09:23 +0000

Personally I believe that a "tithe" is more like a token of thanks given to God for all the good things that he has given me. That is the premise for the tithe. There are many ways to give thanks. Monetary giving of thanks is but one method. The thankless heart will not go far in the kingdom. Be a cheerful giver. Do alms. Increase your treasure in heaven. Raise your hands to God and give thanks that he has accepted you into the family of believers. Do it out of love and not under law... and whatever you give will be accepted.
:)

About Traditions

themuse — Wed, 30 Mar 2005 06:00:40 +0000

Traditions... you can get a glimpse of them in the scripture: water baptism, communion service, the moving of the Spirit in meetings, the sharing of goods, fellowship meals, prayer meetings, evangelistic crusades. Each district seems to have their own slant and emphasis. Things are fine until you try to cross every 'T' and dot every 'i'. When that happens exclusion of people begins and the church is fractured. As charismatics we know that there is a danger of quenching the Spirit when we try to squeeze the Spirit through a traditions knot hole. Traditions do have a place and can be beneficial. Yet, it is dangerous to carve it in stone as the finger of God did when he wrote on the tables of stone that Moses provided.
:)

Sales Pitch?

themuse — Wed, 30 Mar 2005 18:28:46 +0000

Someone complained that some ministers, pastors, evangelists, teachers and a few Christians are doing a sales pitch for what people should believe.

Each one of these ministries has there own way of reaching people. Their respective ministries are for different purposes and their target audience sometimes overlap but not always. Judge your own work and let God judge the others. I must admit though, it does appear that a few nuts are sprinkled in the good fruit salad bowl of the kingdom.

The average Christian who does not have one of the ministries listed by you should simply be ready to give an account of the hope that is within them. That's a personal testimony of their walk... not a teach, preach or lead me exercise. Andyman, quoting Peter, is correct in this regard.

:)

One side of a bad conversation.

themuse — Wed, 30 Mar 2005 18:58:58 +0000

Ah, the rightness of my way. I want to share with an open heart what the Lord has revealed to me.
What, you disagree with what I wrote? No problem, you are young in the Lord.
What, have wisdom of years? If you could read Greek you would see the error in your thinking.
What, have studied Greek! Well, that is a technical reading of the passage but the passage must be spiritually discerned.
What, the Spirit of God told you this? Evidently you have a wrong spirit.
What, judge you according to your good fruit, your good works? The enemy can appear an angel of light.
Argh! You just don't get it.
Argh! Argh! No, you don't.
Argh! Argh! Argh! You're stupid.
Argh! Argh! Argh! Argh! You're shadowspawn.
Argh...............
:crazy:

Born of water and the Spirit

themuse — Thu, 31 Mar 2005 19:10:15 +0000

Water baptism is an outward sign of repentance, a cleansing away, and for those who are baptized as Christians, representative of the washing away of our sins by the blood of Jesus. To come to this repentance is a work of God. Being therefore cleansed we can be baptized into the body of Christ as his Spirit comes to reside within us. One should not confuse the outward sign, which we should do, with the reality of God's work that happens in a moment of time. We are born again, through the water (repentance) into the body of Christ (by his Spirit). These are the two essentials.
:)

The Rapture?

themuse — Sat, 02 Apr 2005 18:29:24 +0000

The rapture is simply a "snatching away" of those who are righteous in the eyes of the Father. When does it occur is a different matter. Who partakes in it is another. Some believe it falls in a pre/mid/post- tribulation time slot. Others have different thoughts on the subject. When the word rapture occurs many view it as an un biblical doctrine. The English word rapture encapsulates all the characteristics of Paul's snatching away statement. This snatching away, this rapture, has always been a part of the church when Paul's letter had been read and accepted. Now views of what it means vary through history. And the debate goes on... the debate goes on...
:)

About Tithing

themuse — Tue, 05 Apr 2005 19:08:29 +0000

Yet did not Abraham give Melchizedek tithes of all? (gen 14:20) Jesus being also of the Melchizedek order.

This before the Mosaic law or the priesthood of Aaron. Not that I am saying that you are right or wrong in your understanding. Yet I think that this would or should modify your stance.

here is the relevant passage...

Hebrews 7
1For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; 2To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; 3Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. 4Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. 5And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: 6But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. 7And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. 8And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. 9And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. 10For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.

As for myself I tithe, as a child in the faith of Abraham, but not under law but from a free heart. I make other offerings as need appears. Teaching tithing as a must (part of law) is not found in the NT. It is a matter of the heart that gives cheerfully.

Trying to squeeze tithing out of the church can undermine the faith of the weak. It can cause division in the body. Since it is not an essential doctrine, teach with wisdom and love what the Lord through his grace taught you. Whether it is a plank or a speck... it is wood and it will be burnt.

:)

More About Tithing

themuse — Thu, 07 Apr 2005 22:57:43 +0000

All scripture is good for educational purposes, correction, etc...

The OT use of laws were needed because the people did not have the Spirit residing within them as we who are born again do. Laws were necessary for their survival. There was law also pointing out the coming one, sacrifice, and justification of life in the model form. While reading scriptures it is possible for the Spirit to make some portion active to bring about the purpose above; teaching, correction, instruction in righteousness, etc.

This does not mean that we are to follow the law, but we must allow the Spirit to use the scriptures to teach us how to walk in the path to fulfill some obligation he wants us to accomplish. If the Spirit then wants me to make weekly offerings (of money) to the local church as a tithing principle, I would be remise in my walk of faith if I disbelieved and entered into rebellion by withholding this "tithe". Your legal view of the tithe is the stumbling block you trip over when answering my previous post.

I agree, that the NT does not teach tithing. I agree that I am not under the law. I disagree somewhat about the OT tithe that Abraham made, that it could not include any of the money that was found. I believe if money was found, as well as anything else, he gave a tithe of all. It may have been a onetime affair.

Now as for the church making it a must to donate (specifically, members for the upkeep of ministry) they are free to do so. Having them call it a tithe is beside the point, unless you look at it as a legal definition (which they may not). It is an agreement entered between individuals. They are free to do so. But you cannot compel someone to give as part of the NT teaching. I agree with you, that there are many churches who compel this giving (a tithe) through erroneous teaching. Some do compel by attempting to place them under law. That is their error.

So, most of what you wrote in response to my post is not applicable. I talk of someone who is led by the Spirit of God to take on a task or to make an offering through the reading of the OT and NT scriptures. A rhema word. I was not referring to excusing the misapplication of the law as a part of NT doctrine... But the allowing of the Spirit to use the scriptures to bring about God's living purpose.

Do you get my drift?
:)

Exegesis and Bible College

themuse — Fri, 08 Apr 2005 20:59:29 +0000

Exegesis? Bible college? Can be important and possibly destructive. Can be trivial and possibly constructive. Or reverse the statements. Bible college is to get a good solid grounding in why the denomination you belong to believes their doctrinal understanding to be the correct interpretation of scripture. That does not mean however that exegesis brings about truth. If that were the truth everyone graduating from any bible college or seminary would believe the same things. That is definitely not the case. I find it an exercise in justification of one's beliefs. Depending on source material and how much "authority" it carries changes the conclusions that one reaches. I am not saying that exegesis is a bad thing but...

caution: exegesis in progress

:)

eating communion in an unworthy manner

themuse — Fri, 08 Apr 2005 22:08:06 +0000

Do not give what is holy to the dogs...
Do not cast your pearls before swine...

The bread and wine of the communion is a physical representation of the death of Jesus. Those who partake of this communion need to understand that the wine and the bread are holy (separated unto God). Some people at Corinth did not discern that the wine and the bread were holy. They counted the wine and the bread as a common thing. They drank and ate it as common food. Some to excess. This was what eating and drinking in an unworthy manner is. It is not whether you have sin, unconfessed or un repented. It is, do you not see the blood and body of Jesus?

...the dogs return to their vomit
...the swine trample underfoot
:)

Allah? The Qu ‘ran? Muhammed!

themuse — Mon, 11 Apr 2005 17:40:33 +0000

The Qu 'ran is the gospel according to Muhammed.

Here is what the word says...

Gal 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

2 Cor 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

The enemy beguiles. They preach another gospel. The weak and the foolish will bear with the deceiver. The strong will stand against them. What subtilty, is Allah the same God? It is a different gospel. The weak and the foolish should close their ears, shut their eyes, while the strong defend the faith.

Gal 1:9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

:)

church teaching needs modernization?

themuse — Tue, 12 Apr 2005 18:07:55 +0000

The church is being challenged with ...ism's. The teachings of the bible do not need to be updated for today's world. We should teach and preach the word as it is and let the Spirit of God bring about the kingdom of God in the heart of the believer. Our minds should be conformed to the word by renewing... not changing one's mind because of ...19th, 20th and 21st century enlightenment. Use a better translation of the bible by all means but not a politically correct bible. There is a sharp difference between the world and the kingdom. When we confuse, mixed, brew the two together we will become like the children of Israel who made an idol and got up to play.

:)

Saviour - Lord -> Spirit

themuse — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 18:54:58 +0000

Saviour: many will accept the free gift and not the responsibility to obey.
Lord: many will accept the responsibility to obey but have a hard time accepting the gift.

Yet he is Saviour. He is Lord.

All that is required is that we walk (in, with, by) the Spirit. However imperfectly the walk... the walking alone is beneficial and will bring life and in time life abundantly. Now if we can just get it through our heads and into our spirits that it is really good to do it. Things would improve very quickly.

:)

Can someone explain?

themuse — Thu, 14 Apr 2005 06:20:13 +0000

1 Corinthians 14:22-25

Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers. So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and some who do not understand or some unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind? But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his hear will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!"

answer:

Go to 1 Cor 14:21 In the context of it being a sign to the unbelieving Jew.

See Isaiah 28.11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. 13But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

The unbelieving Jew will never understand the rest, the refreshing. They will only hear the law.

Yet go beyond the sign and what follows in 1 Cor 14:23 onward talks of the church service. In another place he said tongues are ok if their is interpretation of the tongue. Add to this a praise language in tongues for the individual and you can see that there are many aspects to the question of tongues and usage.
:)

Mary not a perpetual virgin.

themuse — Thu, 14 Apr 2005 19:44:13 +0000

After her period of cleansing I believe Mary did perform all the duties of a wife. That she also had other children by Joseph. Others believe the opposite. Both rest on scripture. Thankfully our salvation is not dependant on the status of Mary's virginity after the birth of Jesus. Of course there may be some who would argue that point as well.

:)

Spirit - Baptized and Filled

themuse — Mon, 18 Apr 2005 17:05:23 +0000

From my understanding...

When you receive the seal of the Spirit you are baptized into the body of Christ. As happened when Jesus breathed on the disciples in the upper room the Sunday evening after his resurrection. Being filled is the Pentecost anointing and can also be called the baptism of fire or being baptized with the Spirit. The first example is for salvation. The second is for power to walk and minister in the truth.

:)

evolution or no evolution; is it important?

themuse — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 17:31:46 +0000

Billions of years or thousands of years? Doesn't matter for me, I can take either date and my faith remains the same. Whether there was a process of evolution or not before 6,000 years ago... does not matter. What does matter is that Adam was the first man and Eve was his wife, taken from his side. That Adam fell and that the Second Adam came to redeem those sons and daughters of Adam and Eve. All life currently on this planet is from that time. All life before that time, if there was life, is nonsequitur to our own genesis timeline. I certainly enjoy the discoveries but I do not necessarily accept their conclusions. When you get down to it, that man (or life)evolved over a long period of time and that timeline is our own, is a faith statement. This is not a contradiction of science but a different view of the "facts".
:)

Once upon a time

themuse — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 18:11:16 +0000

Many, many years ago I went to church with my wife. We sat in the middle of the sanctuary. I was tired but determined to partake of the meeting. The singing came and went. The announcements came and went. Then the pastor arose and began his sermon. After about ten minutes I heard the sound of someone lightly snoring. Ha, someone is tired I thought. In time the snoring became louder and louder still. I thought someone should give the guy a shake. Still the snoring got louder. I could see the pastor was getting annoyed. People were beginning to grumble. I thought someone should give this person a sharp elbow. Just then my wife elbowed me in the ribs. Suddenly there was a deep silence. The pastor continued and a good time was had by all.
:)

the body

themuse — Wed, 20 Apr 2005 23:12:56 +0000

Are there really that many in the body of Christ? Are all Roman Catholics part of the body of Christ? Are all Protestants? When a truth comes forward does labeling it make a new body part? In both there is a remnant (large? small?) who belong to God and the rest are ???? Labels are interesting but they do not define the body of Christ. They do, however, define the clubs.
:)

Faith, Specualtion and Presumption

themuse — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 06:22:36 +0000

Where faith ends, speculation begins and its child is called presumption.
:)

Misnomers

themuse — Wed, 04 May 2005 17:07:10 +0000

Misnomers... the bane of the debater.

:crazy:

Be Angry and Sin Not

themuse — Wed, 11 May 2005 16:30:04 +0000

Someone wrote about his troubles regarding anger towards the person who recently stabbed two Illinois girls to death.

There is a righteous anger. When the people of God hear or see something that is an affront to God it is difficult not to become angry. Jesus was angry when he saw the money changers defiling the temple with their trade. He acted. That you get angry at the person who killed the girls is a natural response of the soul. The challenge isn't to avoid being angry but to channel that anger into an activity that will bring about a positive change. Examples are: the mothers who got together and started MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, another example the people who got together and brought forth the Amber Alert system. There are many positive things that were brought forth because of anger.

What needs to change is not the anger in the soul but the hate in the spirit (heart). If you do not hate, that is good. Channel the anger and bring something good from it. Do not let your anger burn from day to day.

Be angry and sin not.

:)

Anointing the sick with oil, who’s responsibility?

themuse — Fri, 13 May 2005 17:38:14 +0000

I lay my hands on the sick and sometimes they recover. Others I know do the same and it is a hit or miss exercise. HisGirl, talking about Mark, is correct in that laying of hands on the sick and they recovering is a sign of those who follow Jesus. That does not mean we are free to interpret James 5:14 to mean anyone can do it (anoint with oil). God imbues his authority into various people for ministry, government, etc... It is the ministry of the elders of the church to go and anoint the sick with oil and pray for their healing. They carry a special anointing given by God for this purpose. Can all pray and lay hands on the sick, yes. Can all anoint with oil and pray for healing, no. Will some who are not elders do it, yes. Is this God's way, no. Thankfully the grace of God is great enough to overlook for a time our misuse of the word.

:)

Church body of Christ / Church organization

themuse — Mon, 16 May 2005 02:55:10 +0000

The church is made up of those people who have accepted Jesus as Saviour and Lord of their life. The body of Christ is this church and the church is the body of Christ. It is a spiritual institution.

Believers have organized themselves into various expressions of the church. They can be highly organized or loosely affiliated. They are as small as two or three coming together in his name or as great as a billion+ people. These are the places (groups) where the saved and the unsaved gather together for fellowship. The saved and the unsaved have positions of authority within these organizations.

Not all who belong to a church organization are saved. There are saved in every church organization. There are those who are saved outside of any church organization. There are even false church organizations that have zero believers in the body of Christ.

It is the body of Christ that needs to come together and be as one with God. The organizations are not only made up of the body of Christ but also those who have no place in the body of Christ.

RCC, OC or any other manifestation of "church" have these things in common.

:)

Predestination?

themuse — Tue, 17 May 2005 20:34:24 +0000

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

The question is when are we to be conformed to the image of Christ so that we reflect his image? In our lives today we, who seem to be or are, the called undergo some transformation of character. Yet elsewhere in scripture there is a picture of being perfected when we meet the Lord in the air at our resurrection. If this is the case then it is something that will only be revealed in the future. Add to this that "many are called but few are chosen?" It is enough material to get the best conversations and the worst arguments going.

:)

Foreknowledge and Predestination

themuse — Wed, 18 May 2005 19:56:07 +0000

In the beginning God knew who would be the ones to accept him. (foreknowledge)
Because in the beginning God chose them to be in Christ. (elected by grace)
God intervened at points in history, according to his plan, for his purposes.
His message went out. People made a choice.(the parable of the sower)
Many are called, few are chosen. (the predestined)
Those chosen few (the ordained) have/are being conformed to the likeness in mind and spirit to that of Christ.
These are the faithful who will be resurrected and have the same body as the risen Christ. (our destination)
These are the fruitful in the sower parable.
These are the five wise virgins that went in with the Lord.
These are Christ's at his coming.

:)

Foreknowledge about what?

themuse — Thu, 19 May 2005 22:00:25 +0000

In these answers there is an essential piece of the puzzle missing. Foreknowledge. Those whom he foreknew... he predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ. It is the Father seeing the bride of Christ from the beginning. It is the bride of Christ that God has predestined to be conformed and made fit for his Son as a helpmate.

There were ten virgins waiting for the groom... five went in, five did not... yet I believe all ten are saved, but all ten were not the bride, just five... the predestined.

Others heard the gospel as well and some fell on the path, the stony ground, the ground choked with weeds and the fertile ground. Those on the fertile ground are the bride, the predestined. The others? Some or all are saved but like the five foolish virgins not part of the bride.

How about Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses? The guests of the groom and the bride, they are saved but not the bride.

It is not a matter of salvation but making the bride ready for Christ.

:)

Letter to the Hebrews

themuse — Sat, 21 May 2005 17:17:51 +0000

The book of Hebrews was certainly meant for a target audience (perhaps the messianic church). But, like all the letters of the new testament it is of educational use to the whole church. There are truths found there that are not easily seen or included in other letters. There is a covenant with the physical Israel and there is a covenant with the spiritual Israel. Each will have their fulfillment at different times. Hebrews is trying to deal with the cross over effect between the two.

:)

Coming to life

themuse — Wed, 08 Jun 2005 16:44:21 +0000

A few weeks ago I attended a meeting of Christian men. There was a guest prophet who came to speak out words of encouragement to those who would attend. There was a rather lengthy word given to me. It started with receiving joy, went through dreams and visions, evangelism minsitry, profitable income enhancement, and healing. It was a good word and reflected many things that the Lord has revealed to me that he wishes to do in me and through me. Recently I began to open my mouth and speak on a few occasions as the Spirit led. A word of encouragement for a church and their pastor. A word of knowledge confirming a word that a person had just received. The gate is opened and water is beginning to flow from my well to others. Pray that the Lord will have his complete work to be manifested in my life. Thank You.

:)

Been Busy

themuse — Wed, 22 Jun 2005 15:28:46 +0000

There hasn't been any posting over the last two weeks. I have been busy at home as well as getting out and doing some biking about the city. I am doing well enough. I hope that I will be getting back to posting soon.

:)

Racism, America and the Spirit of Babylon

themuse — Thu, 07 Jul 2005 18:34:38 +0000

Racism is a fact of life. It is part of the natural condition of man today... (remember the tower of Babel and what God did). Various religions have stepped up to the plate to bring an equality of man. Christianity in general and individual Christians specifically have been at the forefront of change.

Have there been abuses? Of course there were. Have things been getting better in Christian nations? Of course they are. If you were to look at world history it would be noticed that the US is more of a shinning example of a nation doing good than most of the rest of the nations of the world.

How can I say this? Look to Darfur... to other nations which have commited the mass murder of millions. The tyranny in Afghanistan by the Taliban and others. The racism and religious intolerance in the middle east. etc... All this in this century alone.

There is a problem, a lack of forgiveness. Yet even in this the US is a shinning example. Look to the world. Look to history. Some need the plank to be removed from their eyes. Still, Christ needs to be living in the hearts of more Americans to continue the process of spiritual renewal. Specially at this time when the spirit of Babylon is trying to exert an ever increasing influence over the nations of the west.

What about the spirit of Babylon, the tower of Babel? This statement refers to the initial Babylon, where mankind conspired to build a tower to heaven and to keep the world united as one. It is to this spirit that the Lord descended to confuse the language of the people so that they would fulfill the directive of God. (a side affect of this action may be the racism that has resulted in the world.)

When I refer to the spirit of Babylon it is this same motivation to bring the world together as one. The United Nations is the current incarnation of this thought. It is in the nations of the west that this ideal has been the strongest. It has nothing to do with terrorism, war or enslavement. It does have everything to do with mankind, through its own "goodness", to bring peace, harmony, and oneness to the world. It is an anti-Christian philosophy. This is a more recent development in the world.

:)

Philosophical club? No, a witness!

themuse — Sat, 16 Jul 2005 16:04:23 +0000

Too many people think of Christianity as a philosophy. The church is where the club meets and expresses itself in various activities. Too many people do not realize that there are eternal consequences for sin. Too many do not understand the nature of man. Too many think that there are many paths to the truth. Too many are going to be lost. The gospel is a witness to people about these truths. It is not whether they all will accept it. Nor is it that few will believe. It is the call to the world to repent. It is the prophetic message. And few there be that find it.

:)

Iraq’s proposed constitution

themuse — Tue, 26 Jul 2005 19:54:00 +0000

I listened to today's 700 club program. They reported that the proposed constitution of Iraq has a legal clause that can send back jurisprudence to the dark ages. Roughly, that the law of the land will be Islamic and that any law (national or international) that contradicts the Islamic law will be of no effect. It is a statement that Sharia law could very well be the law of the land. Depending on the judge who hears the complaint, women could loose the right to vote, a muslim accepting Jesus as Lord can be executed, and religious minority rights could be greatly curtailed. The list goes on. It is one thing for a nation to pass various laws from time to time. To have any proposals that go against Islamic tradition be redendered of no standing constrains the will of the people. A nation is only as great as it protects the rights of the minority in their society. If this clause remains religious intolerance will be the way of the land.

I find it funny that there are so many countries in the world who are signatories to the United Nations and yet their laws and government are directly opposed to the charter. This tower of Babel doesn't even have the integrity of being honest to its principles.

:(

Gap Theory Motivation

themuse — Wed, 10 Aug 2005 19:03:48 +0000

The idea of the "Gap" theory is just one of the many interpretations of scripture put forward by the spiritually minded attempting to see the physical universe in God's terms.

:)

Mysticism

themuse — Wed, 17 Aug 2005 17:26:54 +0000

The Spirit of God on some level witnesses to a person's spirit that the Word of God is true. The person then makes a decision based on that "revelation". This is a form of mysticism. There are greater degrees of revelation that can be given to people. Sometimes it comes as an intuition and can at other times be a full blown vision. Whatever the degree, it is the Spirit witnessing to the person's spirit.

Then there are the counterfeits put forward by the enemy. How to tell the difference? Anyone who is accustom to the "taste" of the Spirit will know when that which is before them "tastes" of God or not. Then sadly of course there are many Christians who have never learned to discern what is of the Spirit, a spirit or their own spirit-soul-mind. Another group of "Christians" are those who have been raised in the church without ever meeting their God. Some of these Christians follow another spirit not from God.

Is mysticism good or evil? Depends on what Spirit/spirit/spirit-soul-mind is at work in the experience.

:)

A Word About Faith

themuse — Thu, 18 Aug 2005 18:33:22 +0000

There are many people who think that because something is written in the bible it is meant for them. That they can name it and claim it. If that is the word of the Lord given to them I say amen. Yet not all have been given this particular word of grace from the Lord. I know that what I read, hear and pray about is possible. In my life I would at some point get a spiritual witness from the Spirit that something is true. When that happens I say amen. It may tarry but experience shows that if I continue to follow the Lord all things witnessed to me by the Spirit come about. It is like this... When I first hear the word I hope that such things can be true. At some point in following the Spirit, the Spirit will witness with my spirit that something is true. It is at that moment I move from hope to faith. I agree with the Spirit, I amen his word, and then that particular thing is no longer just possible but will come about. At least that is my experience. In this context, "faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." :)

the hidden condition

themuse — Fri, 19 Aug 2005 21:27:59 +0000

There is faith.
There is unbelief.
Then there is that which breaks the spirit within an individual or a church... presumption.
:(

Email

themuse — Fri, 26 Aug 2005 21:09:43 +0000

I just got another email from someone visiting my site. I do like to receive personal email. I do answer each email that I receive. I have never placed someone's email address on a list. I do not send unsolicited mail. Still, I hope that you will write. If you wish to write to me know that you will not be bombarded by junk email. I do thank all those who have written to me in the past and look forward to your next email.

:D

just a policy statement

Context is everything… almost

themuse — Fri, 26 Aug 2005 21:55:08 +0000

When reading the scriptures I have come across many "out-of-context" referrals back to the OT. This certainly does open the door for many arguments that are mostly non-productive and sometimes detrimental to the body of Christ. So what's new with that?

If you want clarity you should take the scriptures in context. They build upon themselves and will reveal the greater part of the truth. Then there is revelation, where God opens the eye of the reader and all of a sudden a problem area makes sense though it doesn't make real sense in context. Then there are spot moments when something way out of the blue comes across your path and only makes sense if it stands apart form the rest of scripture but speaks volumes about the circumstance that you are facing. Lastly, no scripture at all, just the Spirit opening your heart, mind, soul to the truth. etc?

In the first example that is what you should teach. The second example share. The third and fourth and fifth(?) should be kept in your own heart and seldom shared... unless you are trying to start a new denomination.

Then again, who knows what the Spirit will show and who you are to share it with. If nothing else, it ain't dull.

:D

Milk or Meat? The Word of God.

themuse — Sat, 27 Aug 2005 20:59:44 +0000

Are you drinking milk of the word like a baby Christian? Are you eating meat of the word like a mature Christian? From my observation some Christians handle milk so often that they end up with cheese. And my oh my, what a variety is out there today.

:D

zones of influence

themuse — Wed, 31 Aug 2005 18:02:58 +0000

As my pastor recently outlined there are;

1/Absolute biblical truths
2/Community standards
3/Personal preferences

1/All Christians stand on the Apostles creed.
2/In P/C forums everyone believes that spiritual gifts are for today.
3/Then there are personal preferences and we see things slightly different from each other.

We have problems when we don't recognize in which zone we are dealing.

:)

OSAS vs OSLA

themuse — Sat, 03 Sep 2005 04:06:00 +0000

I believe that OSAS (Once Saved Always Saved) is a happy fiction based on some scriptures.
I believe OSLA (One Sin Lost Again) is an unhappy fiction based on some scriptures.

I believe in the wonder of grace and a walk with God. Just a lump of clay on the potter's wheel. What shall I be in the end? Depends on how well I yield myself to his hands. A vessel of honour or a vessel of dishonour? Good question.

:)

Worship Team Involvement

themuse — Thu, 08 Sep 2005 16:34:01 +0000

Last night I attended the start of the new session of the worship team. This was my first time attending. Twelve people showed up. We went through several songs of which I only new one. The session lasted for about 1 1/2 hours followed by a short prayer session. Overall it was too new to grasp. I did reasonably well for my first time, (I think?). Since there are only 2 sessions per month and we have the words and chords but not sheet music, it will be quite some time before I could even think to participate in a service.

The scripture says obedience is better than sacrifice...
The Spirit has lead me, in this case, to do both...
Go figure...

;)

One Path, Many Different Journeys

themuse — Tue, 13 Sep 2005 18:32:11 +0000

We have the words and life of Jesus as passed down by the gospel writers. We have the words of the Apostles that give insight to the church as to how they were guided. We have the Holy Spirit who will take these words and guide us moment by moment, day by day, into the truth that leads to eternity and glory. There is only one path, and that path is narrow, but the journey is as individual as each person who calls Jesus Lord. Do we at times seem to be in disagreement? Yes. Yet we all follow the same Lord, just differently, as He meets each individual's need. Need of the individual and the group dictate the walk they will have. They will see the truths they need to make it to the next step of their journey.

:)

Ironmen of Crossfire

themuse — Mon, 19 Sep 2005 03:56:28 +0000

In my church we have group called "Ironmen of Crossfire". Crossfire is the name of our church. I attended my first regular meeting on Saturday. A member of our congregation, Jocelyn, is running the new program. He talked about what it takes to be a servant-leader. He did a good presentation. He also offered material to take home. I mention this in case some men from my church read this post. I encourage them to come to the meetings. They are at 8:00 am every Saturday. The location is the church.

;)

Second Coming of spiritual gifts

themuse — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 19:03:59 +0000

Personally I believe the office of apostle is being done by missionaries. It is simply a name change. I will admit though, that the diminishing of the spiritual gifts has weakened the work of the apostle/missionary.

The office of prophet has also suffered because of the diminishing of the spiritual gifts. Though the office of prophet seemed to disappear the work of the prophet did not. They just were not called prophets.

The "second coming" of the spiritual gifts at the beginning of the last century has opened the door for these offices to come back with power. There needs to be constant use of discerning of spirits to make sure we are dealing with the real article and not some falsehood perpetrated by con men and/or our spiritual enemy.

:)

at our resurrection

themuse — Thu, 29 Sep 2005 18:58:42 +0000

When Does Full Sanctification Take Place?

When this mortal shall put on immortality. When we see Jesus as he sees us (face to face).

There will be no greater level of sanctification after that point for we would have arrived at our destiny. It is totally the act of God.

In life however there are times when God sets us apart (sanctifies us) to join him in some work or calling. When we walk in that calling he sanctifies us (cleansing our thoughts and motives) so that we can become more suited to carry out the work. In our daily walk he cleanses our thoughts and heart, during and after reading the word, in all areas of our life outside of our calling.

:)

Copy and Coping - Holloween

themuse — Tue, 04 Oct 2005 18:29:15 +0000

I remember an episode from the sci-fi show "Babylon 5" where one culture celebrated this type of holiday on one part of the ship. I don't think too many people caught the significance that it was that planet's Holloween.

As for the rightness of Christians celebrating this night? No, not really a good thing to do. Yet I know of many churches in Canada that have taken back the night and made it a time to remember the saints of old and have a fun celebration of our faith in a safe environment. Is this proper for a church to do? They feel it is. They take the profane and try to make it profitable for faith. More power to them for turning the night into light for that one evening.

:D

The Toronto Blessing

themuse — Fri, 14 Oct 2005 20:48:27 +0000

My wife and I went with a friend to the Toronto Blessing. (I was going there because I felt the Lord asking me to go to the meeting. I asked him why? To sit and observe only, he said.) The three of us took our seats and the service began. Holy laughter, sobbing, roaring, and various degrees of enthusiasm. Praise, worship and speaking in tongues. Words of prophecy. It was a lively meeting.

Later in the evening I asked God what it was all about. Some of it was from God. Some of it was from the enemy. And of course, some of it was the flesh. Here is my understanding of what was going on.

Some people got together under the umbrella of the Vineyard Movement. God began to manifest his Spirit in the meetings. This was a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit. The people became children in the eyes of God and acted accordingly. Laughing, crying, roaring like lions with all the exuberance and passion of children at play. This was wonderful. This was great. Eventually Satan wanted to stop it. He began to counterfeit what was going on to bring disgrace on the movement. Other people appeared to watch the show. Still others got carried away by their own flesh and reached earthly realms of mental ecstasy. It was a circus when I went yet I know that the hand of God was moving. With time I believed they would mature and the devil and the mentally aroused would be reigned in.

I haven't been back since that time. Have they matured? I do not know. Yet God is still moving and the Blessing has moved to other countries. Hopefully with more maturity but with no less power to set free.

:)

Creating my own Crossfire site.

themuse — Thu, 27 Oct 2005 17:16:37 +0000

Just thought I would drop in a line. I have been doing fairly well the last two weeks. I am thinking of adding another sub-section to my site that would be for my church. It may be password protected... or perhaps not... I am not sure how the layout is going to work. I could use a bit of prayer for guidance in this matter. I recently found out that Crossfire will be creating an official website and I don't want to step on any toes when creating mine. It will certainly have to have a different purpose. Thanks in advance to those who will pray. If you are a church member and have some concerns drop me a line.

:)

Not feeling well

themuse — Sun, 13 Nov 2005 18:40:48 +0000

Every once and a while a little bug comes along and puts my wife and I on the sick list. Been that way for about a week or so. Silly me, I didn't think to ask people if they would pray for Linda and I. We are likely over the worst of it but we still could use your prayers to make the recovery full and quick.

I am leaving this entry open to public comment. Would anyone like to see a prayer request page? Do you have a prayer request?

:)

Substance or Assurance (re-hash)

themuse — Thu, 17 Nov 2005 18:01:32 +0000

I guess the bottom line is how you view faith. Is it really faith when you practice positive thinking. In many cases I have heard people confessing a positive outcome based on the scriptures. I wonder if God had witnessed with their spirit that what they are thinking is going to come to pass. With positive thinking you take hope and speak. Yet if there is no witness it may be simply presumption, faith's dangerous cousin.
Again,
is faith the substance of things hoped for...
or
is faith the assurance of things hoped for...
Positive thinking is based on the substance.
I believe true confession comes from the assurance.
:)

Has It been A Month?

themuse — Wed, 14 Dec 2005 18:10:09 +0000

My gosh, has it been a month since my last post. I guess it is a reflection of how I have been doing over the past little while. Every once in a while you come up against a spiritual obstacle. It stops you in your tracks. Over the past few days it appears to be turning around. I can't explain what it was, I don't know, but I do feel a niggling from the Spirit of God to get back on track. He is faithful even when I am not. For that I thank God...

:)

Merry Christmas

themuse — Sun, 25 Dec 2005 17:59:15 +0000

:) :rolleyes: ;) :D :laugh: :hehe:

Happy New Year

themuse — Sat, 31 Dec 2005 18:57:18 +0000

The last day of the year. Do you have your new year's resolutions already chosen? I have four.

:) To let God cleanse me of my sin.
:cool: To allow his Spirit greater control.
;) To walk in peace with others.
:satisfied: The personal outworking my salvation.

Guess we all want do that. Everyday is a time for repentance. May your resolutions be given new birth each day of the new year. God bless...

:D

Election Day

themuse — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 17:20:56 +0000

The moment has come. I have taken responsibility and gone to do my duty. My ballot is cast. I encourage anyone who reads this today to go to the polls and do your duty as well. Ahem, specially if you are going to vote conservative. That being said... even of you would vote for another party... vote.

;)

I’m Still Around

themuse — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 19:35:29 +0000

It hasn't been a very good year so far. :( A very bad cold that lasted weeks. Back that went bad on me and still getting therapy for it. There is more but what the heck, you don't need a whole listing. Inspite of the problems I did participate in a special night service. A bit of acting portraying Jesus in Luke 14. It was a 15 minute skit and it went well. I thank Crossfire Assembly for opening the door for ministry oportunities.

Today I am writing a skit for a group in my church. Tomorow I have an important Dr.'s appointment. If you read this today, could you pray for me that the skit is well wrtitten and that the Dr will have wisdom and insight during the discussion.

I cannot stand alone. I am one of those people who needs people of prayer to lift me up in prayer. Not for some great work but to get through the day, each day. I truly appreciate those of you who take the time to pray for me.

God bless... ;)

Remember this old song?

themuse — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 04:30:31 +0000

Greater is he that is in me,
Greater is he that is in me,
Greater is he that is in me,
Than he that is in the world.

May this song/scripture become more of a reality for you and I. :cool:

Our Cat…

themuse — Mon, 17 Apr 2006 17:08:57 +0000

BB... that was her name. She was a bundle of energy and had attitude. A unique little creature unlike most cats that we have owned in the past. My wife would have a shower and then BB would go in and lay in the puddle that was left for her bath. My wife would eat breakfast and BB would wait for her treat at her feet. I would lay on the floor for my daily back exercises and BB would come lay beside me and do her stretches. BB was always at the door waiting for Linda or I to come home. Then when we came through the door she would walk away and sit in another doorway with her back to us, ignoring our call to her. If I were to sit up in my easy chair she would come to get her ear scatched. During the evening BB would climb up onto my wife's chair so she could get her chin scratched. Never would she sit on my wife's lap... but she would climbed onto the back of her chair and lay around my wife's head. And lastly, late at night, BB would come up to the bedroom and lay next to my wife so she could get lovingly stroked. This has been going on for seventeen years. She was about two when we got her.

Last thursday BB died. Old age... Cancer... and a tender vet exame that was too much for her frail body. She died at home unable to leave her carrying cage.

Those of you with pets of many years will know of the heartbreak that follows their death. The need to go through the grief stages. The house seems a little emptier now. What we have done everyday for close to two decades is now no longer needed to be done. We put away the toys and the dishes. We clean up the litter box and put it away. A tear wells up in the corner of the eye as we do this. As the days pass we are reminded time and again of our loss by the stray toy under the couch or a tuft of hair left on a pillow. A tear appears at each discovery. In time we will heal. For now...

:(

She Lost Her Mommy (story)

themuse — Wed, 31 May 2006 19:05:39 +0000

It was troubling to see a little girl crying at the side of the road. Her tear stained face caused my heart to open up in sympathy for her unknown plight.

�What�s wrong little girl?�

She turned her face to me and stared for a moment. Her lower lip began to quiver. Mustering up some courage she said, �I lost my mommy.�

I thought it over for a few seconds trying to understand what she meant by that statement. Was she out with her mom and got separated from her? Did the little girl�s mother die?

�Where is your mommy?�

�At home,� she said.

�Is she all right?�

�She is ok,� she said. Her head bent down and hands came to her face. A little whine escaped from her. The familiar sound of soulful desperation as her thoughts played the loss in her mind once more.

�Aw now, don�t cry, if your mommy is at home, why do you think you lost her?�

�I heard my mommy say to my daddy that she is going to have another baby.� The girl looked to me hoping I would understand. That somehow I would be able to set things right. A knight come to rescue the damsel in distress.

I suppressed a smile that tried to make its way to my face.

�Why is that a bad thing, your mommy having another baby?�

�Because,� she said, �my mommy doesn�t like me anymore. I must have done something awfully wrong. She wants to get rid of me. She doesn�t need another baby. I�m her baby.�

Now it became clear to me what her problem was. Relief started to fill my mind. The problem was just a misunderstanding. �I think you got things mixed up a little. I am sure that your mommy loves you. A whole lot.�

She looked up to me with pleading eyes. �Then why does she want another baby?�

I smiled at the little girl. Using as soothing a voice as I could muster, I said, �Your mommy loves you a whole bunch. She wanted to get you a present. Something so special it would last a lifetime. She could think of nothing better, nothing prettier, nothing as wonderful, as giving you a friend. Someone just like you. Someone you could play with. Someone with whom you can share stories.�

Her mind tried to grasp this new possibility. You could see the struggle on her face.

After some moments she asked, �Do you really think that is the truth?�

�I have just met you. I think you are a wonderful little girl. I am certain that the new baby is a special gift for you. Your daddy and mommy will do what they can for the new baby. You will have to help with the new baby. Imagine, a little brother or sister. Wow, that is a special present, for a special girl.�

�Gee, I never thought of that,� as she sniffled one last time.

Her mother came out on the porch and called out her name. Quickly the little girl got up and ran to her mother. She threw herself into her dress and clasped her legs with all her strength.

The mother bent down and said, �My Oh My, what is that all about?�

The little girl looked into her eyes and with renewed understanding said, �I love you mommy!�

She replied, �Well I love you baby.�

At those words the little girl put her arms about her mother�s neck and kissed her cheek. The two held each other in a warming embrace.

�Does my special little girl want some lemonade?�

�Oh yes I do,� she said.

The two got up and went into the house.

I stood up, shook my head, and walked away with a little smile.

:)

author: Joseph Raymond
May 31, 2006

Not healed because of lacking faith?

themuse — Tue, 04 Jul 2006 21:11:28 +0000

That may not be the problem.

Jesus said of the pharisees... They will take up this proverb against me, "Physician heal thyself." On the third day the Father, through the power of the Spirit, raised him up.

If I have faith the size of a grain of mustard seed I can say to this mountain be uprooted and tossed into the sea and it would be done. It is such a small, little, tiny seed, isn't everyone capable of manifesting this least amount of faith? Yet I haven't seen any mountains thrown into the sea unless done through great and powerful machines.

The will of the Lord is key.
Walking in the Spirit is key.
The church manifesting the Spirit is key.
Each one doing what God asks,
In His timing and at His direction,
then as a whole, miracles happen.

A physician never heals himself,
his colleagues do when they work together,
each working his specialty,
for the good of the one.

As the Father with the Spirit,
And the physicians above,
Same goes for the church.

;)

My Website

themuse — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 22:54:22 +0000

I have been on the web now for about eight years. In that time my site has undergone many changes. Just finished going through the files on my server and deleting a mess of them. Funny how things accumulate. Old projects started or tested and then abandoned. I guess it was reflecting my habit of keeping things around because I may find use for them at some point in the future. Naturally it became rubbish that needed to be tossed into the garbage. :O

I get quite a few visitors to my site. The sad thing is that I don't get a good representative share of these visitors leaving comments or sending in e-mail. Feedback would be welcome. Though I have tried various methods to help people to leave messages, that advantage however, was seldom taken. I can only hope that whatever is hindering the interchange of ideas be taken out of the way. :(

Oh well, I continue to hope and I will continue to build my site. Most likely in a few years I will have to clean house again. Maybe by then the website will be more of a two way street than a oneway. :)

God bless :D

Israeli Hezzbolah Conflict

themuse — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 06:53:05 +0000

Motivation?

Hamas is the newly elected government of Palestine, bent on destroying Israel. They were being squeezed by the U.S. and Europe to change their stance. Iran was being pressured by the United Nations to stop processing nuclear material. Hezzbolah negotiations with the rest of the Lebanese government was coming to the point they would have to give up their arms. Syria was simply being ignored by the United States. What are nations and people to do when faced by the global community expecting them to behave in a civilized manner?

Hamas leads the way. Israel was moving their troops out of the Gaza Strip. The wall between Israel and the West Bank grew longer. They fired rockets into Israel. That didn�t work. Israel continued to withdraw. The noose of isolation was tightening. They were left with their own people angry and wanting an improvement in living standards. There was no way to make the life of the common people better. They crossed the border and kidnaped an Israeli soldier. Their people would be united after Israeli�s expected response. Success at a high price.

Iran needed a diversion. They saw what the Hamas had done. They knew that a greater conflict would be the focus of the coming G8 conference. If a problem of great enough magnitude were to occur the members of the summit would be fixated on the new problem. They had friends in the region they supported with training, money and munitions. Time to call in a favour. They got what they needed.

Hezzbolah needed to make their enemy strike against them. They saw Israel�s response to the kidnaping of an Israeli soldier by Hamas. They would have to be as bold to pull Israel into a conflict. They would take a political hit at the beginning of the conflict. .. Acceptable. There would be many Lebanese casualties... Acceptable. They would use many of their rockets and missiles to kill Israeli citizens... Desired. Muslim passion would be fanned to fever pitch against Israel and the west... Desired. If all works out well they will have a stronger position in the Lebanese government when it was all over... Expected. Shia Jihadism would be stronger in Sunni nations... and other countries... Dreamed. They kidnapped two Israeli soldiers. They got the response they wanted.

Syria wants the United States to open formal talks with them. They are the pipeline of weapons from Iran to Hezzbolah. They do not want to get directly involved in the conflict. They gain �face� by negotiating with the greater power. To stop the flow of support the powers that be will have to talk to Syria. Their importance will rise as negotiations begins. They still wait. They still hope.

Politics, religion and tribalism are the foundations of a people. In the case above their idiom is war.

Israel, wants to be left alone in peace. They would like to have good economic relations with their neighbours. It is a dream. It is a hope. It appears for a moment before being taken away yet once again.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Got This Unsolicited Email Today

themuse — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 20:06:35 +0000

I got this unsolicited email today. It was sent by someone calling themselves Rev Franklin T Grayson. He was passing on an article written by James Cieben. He said it was an eye opener for him. I had received this message once before. I have read it through both times I have received it. It is titled: the Flesh and the Spirit. It would take dozens of pages if I were to answer every statement that Mr Cieben makes in his article. This is what I wrote back to Rev T Grayson.

To: Rev Franklin Grayson,

This is a very long piece to be sending over the internet without prior approval from the recipient. You see, I have read this article many years ago. It was sent to me by James Ciebien. I asked to be removed from his mailing list. Must I now ask you to do the same?

As relates to the article itself? Bit by bit I believe this gentlemen turned the scriptures upsidedown. I would remind you of John 1 chapter 1. It shows that Jesus, before his birth, was the Word of God. He spoke and the universe was created. He became flesh. Dwelt among men. Taught the way of God. Was the blood sacrifice to take away our sins. Was ressurected the third day. As Paul wrote we also will be changed, in the twinkiling of an eye, and this corruptible will put on incorruption. Hmm... just like Jesus on his resurrection day. That is the promise.

There are many more, of what I believe to be, twists and "learned" suppositions that Mr Cieben make in this article. I have spent 28 years reading the bible and doing many private studies. He does have one or two unique ideas (which I believe to be incorrect), yet most of what he has written is also held by many others who would deny the diety of Jesus and the true purposes of God as revealed in John 1 and the rest of the scriptures.

So we disagree.

I believe most people getting this email would simply delete it because of its length. If you receive this email and are tempted to read it may I make a suggestion? Delete it! Unless, of course, you know scriptures well and want to exercise your discernment and your "sword of the word" skills.
;)

Hmmm... or just delete it.
:D

PS: Surprise, surprise, surprise! (as Gomer Pyle would say) The email I sent was bounced back to me because the return address does not exist. I can only guess as to whether this somehow reflects the character of the original sender? If so, what to make of his message. Spammer?
:confused:

Giving Alms: Matthew 6.1

themuse — Sat, 26 Aug 2006 00:15:59 +0000

From whom do you wish to receive praise. There are two avenues of approach to the situation. You could give so that the public is fully aware of the gift you are giving. In such a case your reward will be the thanks they give and the elevated stature you will attain in the social order. The other way is to do the giving in secret so that there are no witnesses to the event; that is, no witnesses except for God and perhaps some of the spiritual host. When this approach is taken, then God, who wishes to reward well doing, will openly give you favour in the eyes of others and/or blessings of health/wealth. It comes back to the scripture of �you cannot serve two masters.� Anyone can give some type of earthly reward. Only one master can give a full reward. You can receive, mammon from Man or blessings from God. Either you will aim for the temporal and lose the spiritual or you will aim for the spiritual and also gain the temporal. You will have either a win/lose event or a win/win event. When doing things for the approval of the crowd or a specific individual you gain only a temporary benefit from a temporal world. Only when doing alms with a good heart and for the eyes of God only do you achieve the double win.

:satisfied:

TreeHunter

themuse — Sat, 30 Sep 2006 19:16:44 +0000

Recently I picked up a new domain name. Over the past year I have going out with my camera and taking photos of trees in the Hamilton area. The photos were of a tree as; a whole, the leaf, the bark, the flower and the fruit. Now I have about a thousand photos. I have been working at creating a site that will be called TreeHunter. The great majority of names you will find there will have no links... this project is huge and will take many years to complete... if ever. What I have decided to do is to release it in yearly versions. Over the winter I will be putting together version 2006, relating to the last year of photos. It may be that the bandwidth will be too great for me to sustain the site. Find out next year if that will be a problem. The purpose is to educate and be a blessing. Pray that I will have the wisdom to accomplish both the educating and the blessing.
;)

Mother’s Gone

themuse — Fri, 13 Oct 2006 09:23:17 +0000

Eleven days ago my mother had a stroke that sent her to the hospital. She was in a coma that she never awoke. This afternoon she passed away. She is with my father singing praises to my Father. I will miss my Thursday afternoon visits. Yet I am also contented to know is she is a far better place. Someday I will join her and my dad on the other side of the river. Until then I will remember... :(

Recovery and Support Group

themuse — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 08:24:51 +0000

Remember back when I wrote about Alcoholics for Christ. Well, our church started a new program designed and written by one of our church members named Karl Fair. The meetings have been going for about four months. It follows the same line that you would find in any twelve step program. I take my hat off to the support staff that make this program operational every Tuesday night.

My small part is to provide the praise and worship songs at the beginning of the meeting. Though I cannot be at every meeting I do my best. I missed singing while accompanying myself on the guitar over the past several years. It was a real blessing to myself and hopefully to those attending last night's meeting... six hours ago.

My thanks to Crossfire Assembly in Hamilton for allowing me to participate on the church worship team and for the Recovery and Support Group for allowing me to lead in the worship part of their service.

Merry Christmas

themuse — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 23:48:29 +0000

Well Merry Christmas everyone. It is important to remember the reason for the season. Christmas is the day we take to honour God's gift to mankind. Someone who was able to live a life that justified mankind's existence. The perfect person. The perfect sacrifice. The new creation. We go to church and celebrate his birth according to each of our customs. The gathering of the family. The turkey dinner. Let us also remember those less fortunate than ourselves. Reach out and bless someone with a kind word, a small gift and, if the opportunity arises, the gospel that will set them free. It is a time of giving. Give with a joyful heart. May God bless you and keep you in the centre of his will.
:)

Comment on Proverbs 2

themuse — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 23:56:39 +0000

This chapter reminds me of that passage from Hebrews; you must believe that he is and that he is the rewarder of those that diligently seek him. The call is to seek out wisdom and search out her ways. In Ecclesiastes it is said that the searching for knowledge is the task of man. The promise of getting that knowledge is assured. The answers that we need are there to be had. If only we would take the time to look. Not only the knowledge but the wisdom to use it. We who are the redeemed in this dispensation have even better promises. Whew... for what more could a person ask? Perhaps the heart to search in the first place? That too is a gift.

Comment on Proverbs 3

themuse — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 01:06:31 +0000

Once again in this chapter it talks about wisdom and referring wisdom to being feminine. Over the years while reading proverbs I always wondered if wisdom is the Holy Spirit. He (She?) is the Spirit of wisdom and truth. In the "Gospel of Thomas", which isn't a gospel but a list of sayings, the writer states plainly that the Holy Spirit is feminine. Now I have read most of the gospel of Thomas and find it weak and sometimes contrary to the our four gospels. At times I find myself, even recently, thinking this same thought; the Holy Spirit is the feminine side of God. So out comes the concordance and a search for "Holy Spirit". Of all the mentions of the Holy Spirit I find only one reference to gender...

John 14:26�But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

I guess with that in mind, the Holy Spirit is considered by John, to be masculine not feminine. Of course I do not read Greek and some geek who does could write and show me how wrong I am, that there are feminine and masculine references to words like they have in French. This poor boy, however will stick with John's call. Gee, it was about time I cleared up that little confusion... so far.
:)

Comment on Proverbs 4

themuse — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 09:06:45 +0000

Proverbs 4. At this point I read the line, "hear my son, and receive my sayings..." in verse 10. Chapter three and five call out to his son to gain wisdom. All of the opening of Proverbs calls out to his son to gain wisdom and understanding. The proverbs go on for many more chapters. His son, who succeeded Solomon, was named Rehoboam.

Rehoboam becomes king. His people petition him to make the tax burden lighter. The counsellors of Solomon say lighten the burden and the people will be yours. As a child he asks his friends for advice. Their counsel is increase the burden. The people return for an answer. Where is all the wisdom that his father Solomon passed on to his son? Nowhere to be seen. He answers the people roughly. The kingdom is torn apart and wars rise up between Judea and Samaria. Hundreds of thousands killed. All because wisdom was left to gather dust in some remote corner.

The consequences of a foolish answer sounded the clarion call to war and death followed. Fortunately our answers will not have the same breadth of consequence as those of that hapless king. Yet what trouble comes our way because we rush to answer or fail to gain wisdom. A smaller calamity in "the world" but our "world" can be totally devastated.

Guess we better heed the words of Solomon.
:)

Visit to the Dentist

themuse — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:41:52 +0000

Ah, getting your teeth cleaned. You lay in the chair, arms on the arm rests, hands hanging limply over the ends. Calm, relaxed, this time it is going to be different. She starts up the cleaning device and places it against the first tooth. Body tenses as I vibrate out of the chair onto the floor. Oh sorry, she says, I didn't see the note saying don't use the cleaning machine. She takes out the cleaning pick as I climb back into the chair. Calm but not quite relaxed I sit while she flicks and scraps at some offending piece of plaque. With each flick a facial twitch. I can only hope that the twitch doesn't become permanent. Sssccraape, and I see an explosion of colours behind my closed eyelids. Ah, she says, we will have to let the dentist check that spot. I wipe away a tear from the corner of my eye. In time she finishes the ordeal and I feel as though I ran a marathon. I am sure I lost five pounds sitting in the chair. She smiles and says "see you again in four months". I shudder... then smile... and I leave, knowing the joy of dental health care. :rolleyes:

Proverbs 10:22 & 25 - personal reflection

themuse — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 23:03:01 +0000

Proverbs 10:22 The blessings of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

I don't know how many times in the past I thought I got a blessing in my life only to find it turn to dust in my hands at some future date. Were they of God at all? Or perhaps my own weakness and sometimes foolishness corrupted the gift?

In 10:25 When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, But the righteous has an everlasting foundation.

I find myself after the whirlwind has passed that I am flat on the ground hanging onto the foundation stone by my finger tips. Is this why the blessing keeps slipping away. Is this the reason for sorrow?

I know this, I wouldn't even be holding on by my fingertips if Jesus didn't have a hand on my wrist keeping me from being swept away.

:confused:

comment on proverbs 11.11

themuse — Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:27:58 +0000

Proverbs 11.11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, But it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

Let us hope that there are more voices calling forth a blessing on our city than those who would speak against it. Extend it to our politicians. Extend to the police and firefighters. Extend it to the city employees. Extend to your neighbours. Extend it to your family. Extend it to the poor on the street.

Not only to call forth a blessing but be the hands by which others are blessed. What a city we would have.

;)

comment on proverbs 15:1

themuse — Tue, 16 Jan 2007 00:21:54 +0000

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.

My oh my, This is one little gem I put into practice the first time I read it. I have been using this verse in every instance where conflict could erupt. It has, without fail, kept me out of a few skuffles with those trying to prove themselves. It also helps to disarm those you have done a wrong to; you can quickly get to resolving the problem instead of taking positions. Yep, a real gem this one.

:crazy: -> :confused: -> :D

Comment on proverbs 17:28

themuse — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 09:28:52 +0000

proverbs 17:28...

;)

Bribes, In Canada?

themuse — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 22:09:45 +0000

Bribes... Not in Canada... unless you call it a campaign contribution. Oh wait, someone did get into trouble because of a campaign contribution. Oh wait, they were using government money given for another purpose. Oh wait, the giving of that money was a bribe to keep Quebec in Confederation. Oh wait...

:crazy:

What did the Gommery Report finally decide anyways?

:confused:

In Canada…

themuse — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 21:04:26 +0000

In Canada you are "presumed" innocent until proven guilty." It is a just and right position.

Equally though, you are "considered" guilty until proven innocent. How many people, when then hear of someone being charged with a crime, talk as if the person actually commited the act before the trial even begins. That a person can be detained until trial unless they make bail or are released on their own recognizance. This is a sad reflection on the first statement.

:(

comment on proverbs 16:31

themuse — Fri, 19 Jan 2007 23:37:02 +0000

proverbs 16:31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, It is found in the way of righteousness.

55 years old and no grey hair on top of this head. Of course, there is no hair either. I guess I miss out on the Crown of Renown.

:D

Groundhog Day - the movie and the past

themuse — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 20:57:48 +0000

I watched groundhog day starring Bill Murray. The movies he makes can be a hit or a miss but never anything in-between. What one likes another hates. No middle ground.

I saw the movie a couple of years ago on tv. Though it was slow to start and it got a bit too repetitive, I found myself beginning to enjoy the movie. The struggle of coming to grips with his situation and how he adapted and finally won out was eventually enjoyable to watch. Not one of his best but certainly nowhere near his worse.

On groundhog day itself. Many years ago our family went to a park near here to see if we could spot a groundhog and observe what he would do. My younger brother though couldn't leave things alone and tried to grab the groundhog. We never found out about the groundhog seeing his shadow because it bit my enthusiastic brother instead. I have no idea what that was supposed to mean. Sometimes weather "just bites".

:hehe:

The Secret - Dr Beckwith

themuse — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 02:40:43 +0000

I was channel surfing and came across the Oprah Winfried Show. She had two guests with her. One was named Dr Beckwith. They were discussing a book called The Secret. Intrigued I watched the show for about twenty minutes. What they described is no secret.

I have read several books; think and grow rich, positive thinking, etc. I have listened to spiritual swamis on PBS. I watched other enlightened speakers. These books and speakers may start from slightly different perspectives but all lead to the same core belief.

What you sow in the mental realm you will reap in the physical. As a man thinks so he is. Mental or spiritual imaging brings about the reality. What you are tapping into is; god, the universe, the force or some such concept. They seldom promote this as God but in a fashion they are creating, envisioning, a super-consciouness.

The ideas they promote are basic wisdom principles. After a fashion they do exist. Some, if not many, will be able to profit from the exercise of this wisdom. Understand though, that apart from the God of the bible, it profits nothing on the scale of eternity. It does, however, can very well lead to destruction on the scale of eternity.

The guests do not believe in "the final judgement". They do not believe in a literal heaven or hell. From what I got from the program they do not believe in the substitutionary death of Jesus on the cross; to obtain salvation to all those who believe in Him and his work. It appears that the only sin is incorrect thinking (believing).

I am not writing that these men are intentionally leading people astray. The end result though may be people separated from God or people who will not be able to find God. It has truth but denies "The Truth". Most people will never find "The Truth". Yet the world can know this wisdom they preach and profit from it here on earth.

The devil doesn't so much lie to people, but he certainly does miss-direct them with tasty morsels of "wisdom" devoid of that true "Wisdom" that comes from God.

These men and their followers are delving into the spiritual. There are eternal consequences. My suggestion is to stay clear from this way of thinking. Unless of course it is biblically based and you are being lead of the Spirit to put what the bible says into practice. Do not mix their philosophy with the teachings of the bible.

:plain:

About Apotles

themuse — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 23:23:17 +0000

I always think of Apostles as those who go out and spread the word of God by laying down a strong foundation of the gospel message and then appointing leadershp to carry on the work... the other four ministries. It is also the duty of the apostle to visit sites previously started and to evalutate whether they are still in the faith (basic foundation) and to bring education or correction to those whom he has appointed to oversee the churches the apostle helped establish. There is a also a time when he should meet with other apostles and elders to evaluate all the works currently being done in the name of christ to ensure the truth continues to be spoken in love. At least that is my view on who they are and their responsibilities.

As Roy has written, the person must be humble above all else... fisrt to God... then to others. I am reminded that Moses is, after a fashion, an example of what an apostle should be. It takes a very humble man to stand before God to get direction. It takes an even humbler man to meet out discipline, with love for God first, a people (Israel) a close second, followed by individuals.

Paul came right out when his authority was challenged... he said not by their speech but by the power that came from their words. Paul's apostleship would be proven by the power... signs and wonders, done at his command. For where the word is preached there is power following. Of course where a people are sensitive to God then that perfect witness within will confirm or deny that an "apostle" is from God.

Take your pick... the eternal witness (for the mature) or the power of God displayed among you (for the young in faith and the lost).

One further thought. When I am in a situation where a minister or ministry brings a bit of confusion, then prayer is a must until the Spirit gives insight to what is actually happening. Normally, there is a witness from God that I need to see beyond what my eyes perceive... I then enter into prayer until I can see with my spirit what is going on and/or what the truth is. Prayer is the key.

In the Stillness After the Storm

themuse — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:14:04 +0000

In the stillness after the storm. There have been times, in the past, when so many things would be going wrong. No matter how hard I tried things kept pilling up. I was like a small boat being blown about wildly by the tempest that was my life. Attempts at prayer, like working a rudder to at least go in the right direction, were futile. I was bowed and beaten. I looked to heaven and screamed. My thoughts were placed on my tongue and I vented my rage toward God. Minute by minute strecthing into hours. Tears flowed as my spirit emptied and my soul twisted in the wind. Finally, too tired to continue, I lay broken on the floor. No more tears, no more thoughts... In the quiet time that followed the Lord met me. As a mother gently strokes her little child when ill and calmy, gently, whispers compassion and love... so the Spirit did with me. Slowly I responded to His care. That flicker of hope, once extinguished, came back to life. He actually was there when I was in turmoil but I only heard him when I was silent. He did not judge me for my many words. He simply loved me back to life... in the stillness after the storm. :confused: :crazy: :cry: :)

About Confession and Prayer

themuse — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 07:57:23 +0000

Occasionally over the last couple of months I have been taking some time while alone at night to look at my day and talk it over with God. The first things that get mentioned are sins. Confess them, ask forgiveness, then ask for strength, insight and guidance to better manage those areas.

Then I go for the next smaller sized thing in my life that I should talk about. Then smaller still. In other words... I get the camel out of the soup before I tackle the gnats. Then I can enjoy my soup while sharing in his presence.

;)

About This Blog

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 13:29:47 +0000

The purpose of this blog is to write various comments and thoughts. Formal Christian teaching will be found at my website www.ChristianMuse.com Hopefully there will be some exchanges with my visitors. The participation of guests will determine what direction the blog will continue take.

A New Blog Program

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 19:02:15 +0000

I have just downloaded and installed wordpress blog tool onto my server. All blogs everywhere will be moved here so that I may work from a central location. Have patience as I learn to use this system. Thank You.

Unions and the Clergy

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:15:39 +0000

The relationship of unions/managements is adversarial. It is the nature of the beast. Unions had there times in the past. Yet a union only benefits a limited number of people in society. Then, the small people not unionised fall behind in the general scheme of things. It creates the have worker class and the have not worker class. Then there is the raising of the minimun wage. Those at the bottom get immediate relief while those a buck or two higher per hour lose what benefit they have when the prices of goods rise accordingly. If we go back in history it is the church that is the great equalizer. It is the church where fairness first appears. It is within the church that true justice and freedom come forth. It is when Christian people see evil and pass laws to benefit all that true goodness comes to the lowly and to the exalted. When a church has to have its pastors unionize to get fair treatment then the church has become a partner with the world and has lost its spiritual connection with their creator. There are many churches where pastors are abused. Many churches where the flock is abused. The answer is not unionization but repentance and love for each other. The only thing a union could do for the church is to open a pandora's box in the midst of the church. It would be far more reaching than wages and benefits for some... it would become a festering sore on the body of Christ.

Joe at work

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 02:07:50 +0000

At least that is my preferred self-image.

Praying Scripture

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 03:35:35 +0000

When I am unloving because of self pity; when I am weak because I am carnal; when I am dysfunctional because I am depressed; it is during those times I am fearful that I am not making it. Then God brings this scripture to mind. 2 Tim 1.7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. I quote those words. I sing those words. I pray those words. God has given me those words as a reminder and a promise; power, love and a sound mind as I walk in his Spirit. It is my hope.

Dahmer and Saul, and Bundy too.

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 21:17:24 +0000

Jeffrey Dahmer? He made a full and complete confession of his crimes. Rev Ratcliff had a conversation with Dahmer and accepted the fact that he had repented. The goodnews came to Dahmer and he accepted its truth. It was only right for Ratcliff to then baptise Dahmer. There was another guy as well; he specifically targeted Christians. He would abduct them. Keep them confined. Tortured many of them. Some he even put to death. He travelled to another location to grab other Christians and bring them back so he could torture and kill them. He was a very dispicable man. He was hated and feared by many. His name? Saul of Tarsus. a.k.a. Paul. And what's worse... some guy named Ananias baptised this guy. I guess there really is no real justice. Thank God for that. Grace and Mercy! Now as a side note, when I was working at Mohawk Raceways as a security guard I had a lot of time on my hands. I read the story about Ted Bundy. I prayed for Ted, that he would find Jesus and accept forgiveness for his sins. Several months later James Dobson interviewed Bundy. I was glad to hear that Bundy accepted Jesus as his Lord and Saviour. Actually I shed a few tears of joy. A little more than three years later I read stories of Jeffrey Dahmer. I prayed for him as well. Fortunately he too accepted Jesus as Lord. If Jesus can save them. If he could save Paul. Then he can save such a sinner as I. Therein lies the comfort of my soul.

A Vision of Revival

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 18:05:23 +0000

The eye of God observes all. The field beneath his eye is black. The people of God walk on top of the field. Where they trod the blood of Christ is applied. The blood cleanses. And the field turns white. recently given to me during an evening service

Going to Church?

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 15:52:59 +0000

Ever go to someone's house just to sit in the hallway? You hang up your coat. You kick off your shoes to get comfortable. Then you sit in the chair by the door. Sadly, everyone else is sitting in the living room with the host. Doesn't make much sense does it. Yet, that is what I have been doing at church. I am speaking of the spiritual house not the physical structure. You can be in the building but not "in" God's house. When I first started coming to Crossfire I was sitting in the "hallway". A little over a year ago I was standing in the doorway to the "living room". All the while the Spirit kept inviting me to enter in deeper. Recently I have taken a step into the living room. I have little chats with the host and He with me. Someday I hope to sit down with everyone else and simply listen to the host as He pours out a spiritual drink from the cup of life. I started coming to Crossfire like an abused dog lying down and keeping its distance. Now I wag my tail on occasion as the master pets me. Better things are ahead. :)

Watch and Pray… a necessity.

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 16:47:07 +0000

There are times when I am in church that the Spirit whispers to my conscious mind. The thought is just out of reach. I use to run through a list of "what can it be". I have learned early in my walk to watch while praying softly in tongues. In time he would reveal to me what is hidden. Sometimes it may be days later before I understood. Other times I got the message within minutes. If I am already in a watchful spirit then understanding what the Spirit whispers comes quick and easy. To always be attentive, to walk with God, to watch where the Spirit leads, then to go. Not a bad way to live. My hope is that I get better at it. I know I do well when I watch and pray, and badly when I don't.

An Easter Service

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 19:12:06 +0000

Easter Sunday. An actor by the name of David Morris visited our church today. He did not, however, show up as himself. Dressed in traditional Jewish garb of the time of Christ he gave the testimony of John, the beloved disciple. The story weaved its way from when he first met Jesus until the restoration of Peter. He gave a very good portrayal. I tip my hat to his performance.

Fear of Heights

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 20:21:22 +0000

I grew up climbimg the escarpment to try and overcome my fear of heights... didn't work. As soon as I got to the top and looked over, wham. The reason for the fear? As I look over the edge I lose all sense of balance. Vertigo? Who knows. Then I found myself in Alberta at the tar sands. Big construction projects. I was a labourer for a brick laying firm. Made $800 to $1000 a week. Not bad for 1976. Where did this job take me? Sometimes up to 40 feet in the air, on a windy day, pushing a wheelbarrow full of wet mortar along a 10" wide board. I guess the greater the reward the greater the bravery. Kind of explains all the "survivor" shows on TV. These days I am not getting paid for climbing. Guess what? Yep, standing on chair to change a light bulb is a harrowing experience. Thank God they came out with the super lasting light-bulbs.

The Unknown Soldier(s) in my life

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 17:05:48 +0000

I do not walk alone For silent witnesses Watching over my life Lift my name to the King Interceding before His throne For this struggling soul. In a valley, Called depression, I walk by His light Burdened by a mind Filled with troubles But not bowed down. As time passes A warrior perishes. My struggles increase. I walk in a rift Called DEPRESSION And question the struggle With thoughts unbearable. He will not leave me To stand alone, Another Saint bidden, To take on the task, Of raising voice To aid my soul. Then once again I climb from the pit And raise my eyes To my gracious Father For raising another Unknown Soldier.

The Written Word and the Oral Tradition

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 15:57:26 +0000

(this article moved from tripod) The Crux of the Problem We have all read in the bible where Jesus accuses the Pharisees and Scribes of being hypocrites. Jesus then goes on to give a couple of examples: how they twisted honouring parents to ending their obligation to them; how the altar sanctifies the gift to the gift sanctifies the altar. It seems plain to Christians that the Pharisees and Scribes had it wrong. I am certain that they meant well. So how did they miss the mark? The Written Word Moses took pen to scroll and wrote down five books. These five books are called the Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. They believe, like the fundamentalist Christian, that it is the inspired word of God. That every letter is God breathed and not subject to change. The Oral Tradition There was a code given to Moses for him to write down. The Jew also believes that God spoke to Moses and that additional information was given to him. This information was not written down until much later in history. It existed solely by word of mouth passed down through the generations. This became the traditionally accepted interpretation of the Torah. To deny "the tradition" is the same as denying the Torah in whole. The person who denies the oral tradition was given to Moses and then passed down the generations was classed by one rabbi as being a heretic. It is equal to despising the word of God, both written and oral. The Christian In time the oral tradition was written down. The vast majority of Christians never read any of this material. Our word of God was written down in letters by the apostles and a few others. (Before these letters were written the new covenant was passed on by oral tradition. Its strength rested in the Old Testament as interpreted by the apostles, prophets and teachers.) Those letters which eventually were accepted as authoritative were placed together and today form our modern New Testament. Since then the church has come to believe many things and brought about the un-ending birth of new traditions. Within the church the accusation of "heresy" was shouted. Divisions and wars were fought over the traditions... not the word. Back to the Jew That Moses talked with God... yes. There is a place in the new testament where Jesus says that Moses hit a compromise with God over the subject of divorce because the men would not be able to follow the ideal of "one man one woman one flesh." What else was discussed between God and Moses that we are not privy to? What additional instruction did God pass on to Moses and then Moses to the leaders? And the final question. What part or parts of the oral tradition of the Jew are valid and which are not? I could be open to a charge of heresy by the Jew. Yet I believe that is the same accusation they made about Jesus. Discovery So you can say that I am on a voyage of discovery. I will travel down the road of the Jewish oral tradition by reading an English interpretation of the commentaries. What will I find? Who knows? A better understanding of scripture? A better understanding of how they went wrong? Perhaps a new idea will come to my mind. You are invited to join me in this adventure.

Caffeine and Late Nights

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 17:32:49 +0000

I use to drink coffee. I thought it helped me when I was up late on the computer. But boy, when the caffeine high wears off it was a lot like being gassed at the dentist. (does any dentist use gas anymore or am I just dating myself?) I would be typing away and then I would drift off. My face resting on the keyboard. Out like a light. I would come to and find that my face had letters imprinted on it from the raised lettering of the keyboard. Funny thing though, sometimes what was imprinted on the face made more sense then what I wrote just before passing out.

Born Again… In the Flesh?

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 09:51:31 +0000

Born of the Spirit while living in the flesh. A water source cannot put out sweet and salty water. A good tree cannot grow bad fruit. Yet a Christian who is born again can also have a desire to live in the flesh. Why does this happen? We feed the beast. We contaminate ourselves by what we perceive. We are sullied by participation in flesh centred activities. Being with like minded people only hastens our destruction. To change the destructive behaviour... The internal man has to change. This cannot be done through the exercise of will-power. Even if we successfully stop sinning we become less fit for the kingdom of heaven. Denial of the flesh only hardens the heart. We are changed by the gift of self-control, a fruit of the Spirit. The growth of our spirit increases that self-control. The way this is done is through pruning. God prunes out activities and people that feed the beast. He replaces it with God centred activities and Christ centred people. The more time we spend with his Spirit in these God centred activities the more we grow. Our being with like-minded people aids us on our road to glory. Will-power is the ability to stop... Failure! Self-control is the ability to direct... Victory!

gathering for the common good

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 01 May 2007 16:58:27 +0000

Defence of Democratic Principles In Canada we have a democratic form of government. This government has basic principles by which the governed agree to abide. In this context having meetings that cross denominational lines are not a problem. We all agree that each of us has freedom of conscience. We have have certain rights that are extended to all. When our conscience is at odds with others we are not (usually) compelled to agree. Though Political Correctness is gradually changing that last sentence. Yet our country corrected other actions that in time all deemed as wrong: child labour, torture, denial of the vote to women, etc. For better or worse we are living in a society that is in a state of constant flux. As long as we defend basic democratic principles as we have come to know them we assure our peace. Broad Common Good Events The broadest grouping is the federal legislature. It comprises of the largest and perhaps most diverse amalgamation of ideas. The purpose for this gathering and many smaller ones is to formulate plans for the common good. When we take care of our brothers and sisters, our neighbours, we take care of ourselves. Going to an inter-faith meeting for the purpose of coming together to do a good work is an admiral example of co-operation for the common good. Such events we can only hope would be well attended by all. Unequally Yoked Alliances and Prayers We can enter into difficulty if during such a gathering we enter into alliances with those who have a different or perhaps hidden agenda. You are known by the company you keep. There is a level of caution that the Christian should maintain when joining with others. What would be the perception of such an alliance? Would God approve of such fellowship? There are obvious connections we should resist. The same goes when we enter into the realm of prayer. There are more so called gods and goddesses out there that are receiving prayer. I am reminded of Israel falling into disfavour with God because they offered the sacrifices that God required and then would prostitute themselves with a myriad of gods and goddesses on every hill and in every grove. How does the Christian join his prayer to God with another person's prayer to Belial. Surely we can both carry the same burden for the needs of people without being spiritually yoked in prayer. In this regard I believe, in many situations, it is possible to go to an inter-faith meeting. It may, however, be inappropriate to attend an inter-faith prayer meeting. Organized Like Faith Events So now we enter into a smaller, like minded faith, group of people. They speak a common (spiritual) language. They hold to the same values. It is here that the problem can be addressed more directly. In larger groups even the terms we use have to be double checked to assure we are talking the same "language" and mean the same thing. (I remember when Communism would take our very words of freedom. They would then change the definitions. Even though we sounded the same the resulting vision was far different.) We would not have to worry about the perception of being unequally yoked. We would also know that God could move among us to bring about his purposes and for his glory. We would not share God's glory with others opposed to him. Defence of Our Truth We must defend our democracy and its democratic principles. Yet if the law opposes God we need to stand firm against the whole. In our society we must also be willing to defend the freedom of conscience of other faiths. Except when they oppose democracy and democratic principles. However, we do not need to agree with their vision. Then we must stand firm in our resolve to believe and obey of Saviour and Lord and the revelation given to us. In a country that holds to democracy and democratic rights and principles, we have the freedom to walk out our faith as others do theirs. We have the right to share our faith as do others. We have the ability to gather together for the common good... no matter how small or large the group. Above all we can defend our truth. It is a freedom that must be given to all or it will be given to none.

The War of Ideas by Walid Phares

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 03 May 2007 18:20:48 +0000

The War of Ideas by Walid Phares published by Palgrave MacMillan Here is a book that should be a must read for all people who want an understanding of the forces of terrorism now engulfing the world. Phares describes who the enemy is and those who directly and indirectly support them. He lays out their motives. He blows aside the common misconceptions that prevent the west from getting a good grasp of the religious political forces at work in societies from Baghdad to Washington and out to the world. He describes three different periods of this war starting in the early to mid 20th century, how it changed focus in the 1990's and finally the adjustments to strategy they are using after 9/11. This struggle is between Islamic Jihadism and the Democratic principles and ideals of the West. He goes further to explain why controlled societies such as Syria, Iran, Saudi Arabia and others not only give tacit approval but financial and material support to the Islamic Jihadists. During the mid 20th Century in the United States there was the embarrassment of the McCarthy hearings. The fifth column that never materialized as the broad threat that was being painted. However, in our world today there is a fifth column at work in the US and other western nations. It is being fuelled by petro dollars. There is an agenda to misdirect governments, institutions and the general public. Mr Phares does an admiral job explaining this threat to world peace. To come up with viable workable solutions misconceptions must be cleared up. Only then can we hope to apply the correct actions to resolve the situations faced by freedom loving people. Only then can we understand the enemy and only then as a people stand firm against a common foe. For many Mr Phares book, the War of Ideas, will be a likely and beneficial start; on our road to understanding what lays before us and how to defend the Democratic principles and ideals we have come to cherish.

Can an Atheist Judge a Christian Worship Service?

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 11 May 2007 21:15:24 +0000

No. An atheist is the bottom of the "faith" pile. A view of Romans the first chapter shows the descent of the soul. Believing nothing but what the senses can tell you is the end. What can an atheist tell us about connecting to the divine? Absolutely nothing. He can however be a judge whether something is aesthetically pleasing. He could also judge whether the worship is having an impact on the individual but cannot tell whether it is strickly a chemical emotional response, some form of insanity or if they are being touched by God. He can tell you whether your service is running slicker than "snot" but has no idea what the snot is. And if it is snot, well God ain't in that, is he?

About Christian Traditions

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 12 May 2007 15:38:20 +0000

The word of God is quick and lively. He speaks a word, we're alive. We repeat the message and life continues. We are strange creatures. We organize that lively word. It becomes a tradition of men. The life ebbs slowly away. A stale crumb is left. A message meant for a day... became the standard meal. God's Word is like mercy, They are new every morning. Seek a fresh word of God... A well rounded diet... Stay spiritually healthy. A further word on tradition. It does have its place. It does have worth. It shows us our roots and how we came to be where we are today. Yet the message and how it's delivered will continue to be modified and changed as culture changes. Technology will also open up new avenues. My worry is that we can get so caught up in the style we use to deliver the message that we run the risk of losing the power of the message. I have seen this; through tradition as well as innovation.

Pan Handler and the Parking Meter

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 17 May 2007 01:34:33 +0000

Last Thursday I went to city hall to to pay for the CFC fee for putting an air-conditioner out in the trash. When I got out of the car I went toward the ticket dispenser. As I was fumbling for change in my pocket a street person came up to me and asked for change. He told me it would most likely go for a drink. Honesty. I looked at what I had in my hand and gave him fifty cents. Not much but I wanted enough for the parking machine. He thanked me and moved on. I got to the machine and looked at what they wanted. Great, now I didn't have enough. I opened my wallet and took out a tooney. Good for an hour and twenty minutes. My bussiness inside city hall took ten minutes. As I got back to my car I thought it ridiculous, I still had an hour on my ticket. I drove my car to the ticket machine and saw a man about to buy a ticket. I rolled down my window and asked him if his bussiness was going to take more than an hour. He said no, so I gave him my ticket. That day I blessed two people. I wouldn't have blessed the second without blessing the first. I asked God, "which one was I supposed to bless?" Perhaps both? I chuckled to myself and drove home.

A Very Unpopular View

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 17 May 2007 19:11:58 +0000

A big problem with society is that they believe that: once a child molester always a child molester. There is a quick attack by people against those who sin in this peculiar and tragic manner. To stygmatize people and say there is no recovery of the soul is to condemn these people. Because of this they cannot seek the help they need... they don't dare. Yet as a Christian I believe that there is always hope. That repentance is possible. That a person can have his life changed. The difficulty comes from believing that with the right incentive someone using will power will be able to walk the right path. Yet will power will never change the heart. This approach has never worked. To change a person's life they need a gift that can only come from God. That gift is self-control. It is planted as a seed and with time and patience will bear the fruit of someone who can walk in obedience to God's way and decently. Their hearts are transformed. This is true for every person under the control of their particular "sinful act". I feel sorry for those who are heading down the path that will result in a child eventually being hurt. I feel saddened and concerned for the child who will be their victim. I am angry at the culture that puts stumbling blocks in front of those who need the help to stop the cycle from continuing. Regardless of what the sinful behaviour... The tempted need help without judgement The sinner needs correction and help But the monster needs to be removed from society.

my supper and a story

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 28 May 2007 17:29:58 +0000

Once a month for the last two years our church, Crossfire Assembly, has held a supper and story time. After a meal a member or a couple from the church would tell their story. Last night Linda and I were the guest speakers. I began with my conception and birth. I then handed the microphone to Linda. (I’ll let Linda write about what she spoke in her blog.) When she told a bit of her story she passed the microphone back to me and we traded it back and forth. I would like to thank pastor Roy Pierce for giving us an additional 25 minutes. That enabled us to give a little better telling of the story. The theme I spoke on was vows spoken when being hurt. This hurting was usually in the form of punishment at the hands of my parents. Very early in my life I vowed not to be forced to show affection. I vowed never to be free with my affection. I vowed always to tell the truth no matter who got hurt. Speaking these vows during times of physical punishment and emotional turmoil put me on a path of separation from people. I spent long periods of time in self imposed isolation. Eventually, instead of being a victim of circumstance I began a life of self-victimization. The results where drug and alcohol abuse, risky sex because it was dangerous, cutting, and attempted suicides. At the rate of self-destruction I didn’t think I had long to live. My story then jumped to my rediscovery of God. This time instead of religion I had a more personal encounter. To make a long story short, I have been walking with him for more than 25 years since that time. The road has been rough and there were challenges that broke me at times. Yet, the Lord was faithful and in time would draw me back to him. What I learned was that the vows that I spoke as a child, teen, adult and husband bound my spirit and stopped me from growing in the character of God. I was still a baby, a child or teen in respects to my maturity. When God began to remind me of the vows I had forgotten, we began to tear down those mental and spiritual strongholds. That didn’t mean that I matured overnight, far from it, but it did free me up to begin to grow-up mentally and spiritually. It has been, and in some respects still is, a long process. Yet I appreciate what God has and is doing for me. It was a good night and I thank Crossfire for the opportunity to share my story. I hope that my story was a help to those who heard it... by opening a door of understanding into the destructive nature of vows... and hope that God could help them as well. God bless.

First Spammer Attack

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 16:45:42 +0000

Since I opened this blog (recently under wordpress) I was wondering how long before the first spammer would find it and leave a spam lunch for me to chew through. Yesterday was the first. Six comments were tagged for moderation and two were not. I do wish that anyone who wants may leave a message so I will keep the blog wide open. I don't want a few bad apples to ruin it for the others. What I really like is how easy it was to eliminate the comments under wordpress. As long as it stays within reason everything will remain the same. Lord Jesus, there are a lot of spammers out there trying to get mileage from the sites of other people. I pray that you protect my site as well as the sites of my fellow Christian bloggers from their abuse. Amen!

Life Choices and My Cat

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 03:14:58 +0000

originally published ... April 21st, 2007

I remember a time about 20 years ago. I was struggling with my walk with God.

I was in prayer one day and heard my cat crying. I ran to the back door and found that Simon, our gray short hair, was on the neighbour’s fence. It was one of those steel frost wire fences. Now here was my cat going along the steel piping crying out. He would continue to cry until he got to the end of the fence. Try to get down but wobbled. Then would proceed to the other end of the fence. Tried again to jump down, wobbled, and went back to the other end. Crying all the time. I thought, “silly cat, just drop down, it’s only a few feet, you have jumped that a thousand times.” Finally I just shook my head, went into the yard and picked the cat off the fence and placed him down on the ground. I chuckled as it scampered away. Just then I got that knowledgeable impression that God was chuckling as well. Not at the cat but at me. He showed me that I was afraid to jump down into “the things of the Spirit” because I was on my own fence. Every time I tried to jump down I wobbled and would go back to other extreme end crying out to God for help. He told me to stop wobbling on the fence and make the commitment. That time I did but it is funny to note that he also picked me up and put me on the ground at other times. So every time I get afraid to make the next move I try to think of my cat on the fence and jump.

American Soldier by Gen. Tommy Franks

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 17:35:15 +0000

American Soldier by General Tommy Franks w/Malcolm McConnell published by 10 Regan Books This is the personal story of General Tommy Franks, leader of the coalition forces that lead the battles in Afghanistan and Iraq. The book is broken into four sections:

birth and going through to his tour in Vietnam.
Decission to stay in the military to his promotion to four star general
9/11 and the Afghanistan campaign
The Iraq Campaign

It was interesting to read about his early life. The formation of his character. Not only factual but also entertaining. His tour of duty in Vietnam explains the formation of an innovative mind. That mind lead to the tactical decisions that were played out on the battle fields of Afghanistan and Iraq. Reading the history of the strategic developement of forces showed a clear and decisive change of tactics that would result in a totally different campaign from the first gulf war. The strength of the book is historical information. The timeline of events and decisions that lead to the formation and execution of the battles. The book also reveals how the press, for good and for bad, reported the news and how in some cases hurt the cause. There are also many explanations to why certain things were done; such as keeping the 4th Div on the ships just off the coast of Turkey until well after the conflict began; the "mission accomplished" press fiasco after phase three operations were completed. There are many examples of behind the scenes events that need to be known to understand the battle plans. Tommy Franks explains his personal philosophy and plays a bit of the prophet. He warns of the consequences that would face the U.S. and the rest of the world if we fail to gain a full victory in the gulf. A sustainable Iraq government must be in place before the coalition forces leave. Though this book is primarily a military history it also is a non-partisan political history and a biography. I recommend this book for those who are interested in history and war.

One Moment of the 700 Club

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 14:03:50 +0000

Yesterday I was watching the 700 Club on television. Terry Meussen was speaking after one of the stories. The story was about a family that was blessed through Operation Blessing. Timely surgery that was made possible by donations from viewer support. At $20 a month a donation gets spread pretty thin among all that they do. Yet she turned a phrase that highlights what can be done by a group. She said something like this, "Alone we may not be able to do much but by linking arms together we can hug the world." I like the word picture that conjurs up in my mind. It is also a simple fact, that many can do much with the little they give.

Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 16:55:59 +0000

Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert published by: Ace Books, New York This book is the sequel to "Dune". It is a science fiction story based 10,000+ years into the future of mankind. The planet Arrakis is the major location of this story and plays a prominant role in all of the books in the series. The first book tells the story of Paul Atreides, a young man of a noble family, who became the foretold leader of the known universe. In this sequel we learn that this government/religious leader isn't as all powerful as was pictured in the first book. Dune Messiah sets the stage for the second generation. It is filled with intrigue and sub plots. The story will keep you guessing what comes next... right to the end. Most of the characters from the first book make an appearence in this sequel. If you have not read "Dune" I recommend doing so before reading "Dune Messiah". If you like sci-fi then this book, as well as the whole series of "Dune" books, will be a good read.

The Church… Division or Acceptance

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:42:51 +0000

excerpt from my comment at: Isn't that the craziest thing: a tough job and sad news Based on the news article Pope: Catholicism only true church by Nicole Winfield Over the centuries there have been wars fought over what Christians are supposed to believe. In 1 Corinthians Paul talks about the importance of being one. We are warned to beware of those wolves in sheep's clothing. They sow discord among the flock. Theological fractures have weakened the "church" both then and now. Leaving the heretic within the walls of the church poses great problems. Jude talks about contending for the faith. Then we have the all embracing love of God. It is a balance that the body of Christ has struggled with for 2,000 years. The pope is simply re-affirming that there are limits when it comes to fellowship with those not in agreement with their take on theology. Do we embrace every idea without discernment to the truth for the sake of oneness? No, but we must be careful about what we allow to divide us. I find it peculiar how at the same time there is this separation of the body of Christ, many churches, including the Roman Catholic church, try to portray God through the local customs and religion of people they are trying to proselytize. This unholy mixture clouds the truth and should never have occurred. Paul's discourse on Mars Hill is the example they use for justification of this type of evangelism. I believe Paul would be horrified to know how that example has been used to mix the sanctifying truth with the profane. Personally the bible is the standard and each person, individually, will have to answer to God on how they walked out their life according to its truth. There are true Christians in almost every church... but not all people in the church are saved. That is sad but true.

1857 Revival

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:03:53 +0000

In our church there has been much mention of the 1857 church revival that occured in Hamilton, Ontario. It is believed by many that another revival will be sparked in Hamilton. This revival will be one of healing as its central manifestation. I have been sent an article by a friend about the 1857 revival. I am including a link to the page here: http://www.christianity.ca:80/church/history/2007/07.000.html :)

Leading Worship

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 17:30:36 +0000

Last night I had my first opportunity to lead worship at our evening service. Well, I was actually the only person on stage. Thankfully I had someone on the sound board and another on the power point presentation to display the songs we would sing. My thanks to them both. So I was sitting on the stage with my guitar, prayed up and ready to go. I started strumming the first song and began to sing... oops. For the life of me I couldn't sing that song. The beat and the words refused to co-operate with each other. I stopped and chuckled to the congregation. Apologizing I explained that when I lead worship at our substance abuse meetings on tuesday nights something usually goes wrong. I said that at least we got "the" mistake out of the way and now we could proceed. It is nice to have a group of people who have grace and show mercy. Gathering up my courage I started once again with the same song. This time we could all sing the song. Four other songs were played in succession. My voice held up pretty well but the guitar playing began to suffer. I have arthritis and other problems that sometimes make it difficult to play. My chording hand began to go numb and I failed to play the chords cleanly. Foretunately the people singing along did not seem to notice the difficulty I was having. At the end of the service many came to me and said that I did a good job of leading worship. I sometimes find it hard to accept compliments. I have a defensive mechanism that kicks in and I usually try to minimize anything someone says to me. This was actually improper of me to do. Why? Because I didn't have the grace to accept a kind word spoken to me. The Holy Spirit is such a gentleman. He used a feather of thought to convict me. I apologized to one person in particular for my attitude. You see, I know that when playing the guitar I am limited. What I forget is the grace of God. Before I play I always ask God to help me out. That my mistakes don't pull attention to me but that everyone will keep their eyes on Him while we worship and praise. He is faithful and has always helped. My problem is that I see the errors and not the grace. I am, however, learning. I'm just not finished growing in character and understanding of who He is and His grace toward me. It is always a privilege, never a right, to minister to other people. He is wonderful and I always thank him for every opportunity to minister.

Dune: House Corrino by Brian Herbert w/ Kevin J. Anderson

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 19:44:06 +0000

Dune: House Corrino by Brian Herbert w/ Kevin J. Anderson published by Bantam Books - Toronto This is a continuation of the Dune saga. Brian Herbert is the son of Frank Herbert the creator of the Dune story. After the death of his father Brian teamed up with Kevin J. Anderson to continue writing the fictional story of Dune. Frank’s original works start with Dune and end with Chapterhouse: Dune. Brian and Kevin wrote a trilogy which takes place prior to the first book of Frank’s (Dune). For this reason a person should read his father’s works first. There are too many give aways that would take away the mystery that made Frank’s works so compelling. That being said I now have to say that I read the trilogy out of sequence. House Corrino is the third book in the series. Naturally since the works build on each other I already know the outcome of some of the plots of the two earlier books. Then again, my reading of the whole Dune story has been fractured. House Corrino is the imperial family. They have ruled the known universe since overthrowing the machine worlds (another book). This empire has been in existence for 10,000 years. Though there is an emperor there is a form of power sharing. These powers are: the emperor, the Landsraad (noble houses forming a senate), The Guild (the navigators that make safe space travel possible), CHOAM (A conglomeration of business enterprises that keep commerce flowing). There is a fifth group that form a sisterhood that have mental and physical prowess. All of the Dune books has at its central core “spice”. It is a substance that can only be found on Dune and is the sole reason why safe space travel is possible. This spice is ingested in huge quantities by navigators of The Guild. Without spice the empire would collapse. Dune: House Corrino is about the plot the emperor puts into play to break the power of the other “powers” and wrestle total control into his own hands. He attempts this through the manufacture of a synthetic spice. If you have read other books of Dune then you may understand this covers the period referred to as “the spice wars”. As with all the books it also unfolds the story of the prophesied religious leader who arises in the original Dune story. This story opens up and explains the 90+ generational manipulation that ends with the birth of Paul Atreides. As I already wrote… too many give aways, so read Frank’s works first. Now to go back to the store and pick up the first book in the series Dune: House Atreides.

My life arrives at 5:59

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 18 Aug 2007 17:10:36 +0000

Have you been wondering why I haven't been posting the last couple of weeks? Two weeks ago I dropped off Linda at the airport. She was going to her mother's in Newfoundland. She certainly had an adventure while she was there. In the two weeks that she was gone I was bat'ching it. Cold cereal, a few warm meals and a whole lot of nothin gettin done. Normal for a guy I guess and if not normal then normal for me at least. Tonight she is landing at Hamilton airport. In preparation some house cleaning. Going to the store to get some of her favourite foods. I have a rack of ribs that have been marinating overnight in the fridge. Good eats cooking and good company arriving at 5:59 and my life will spark up again. Besides me the cat, Cafe, will be delighted at her return. My lap is hard and Linda's is soft. I move a lot and she moves little. I stroke a little she strokes a lot. I can hope that I fare at least as good as the cat... what am I saying... I know I will fare better ;)

Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 01:12:40 +0000

Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer published by Warner Faith This particular book has been kicking around the house for about a year or more. My wife bought it when our church decided to have the women go through it together. They bought the study guide as well and away they went. The meetings were every week. My wife enjoyed the study and found it beneficial. Since that time the Lord has been putting it on my heart to read the book for myself. Last month I finally picked it up and read through the book. A section a day until I was through it. Personally I have many struggles and problems. It was my hope that it would help me. I would not say that the book was an eye opener. It did however bring to my memory a lot of what the Lord has shown me over more than a twenty five year period. Anyone who has listened to Joyce Meyer on television will not be surprised by what she has written. Much of what has been covered in the book has been repeated on her program. What is good about the book though is that it brings all of the related material together and puts it into a form that is easy to read and quite handy since now it is at your fingertips. The book is broken down into three parts. Part one is about preparation. What the battlefield is. To encourage you too start and continue on this path of discovery and renewal. That change comes over time. It also discuses the enemy and some of his tactics. Part two describes some of the conditions of the mind. Part three covers mental attitudes. It is more than a book explaining the problem. It is written to give you scripture and how that scripture when properly applied can be used to overcome guilt, faults and depression. It is a practical book. Not having read the companion study guide I cannot comment on how the two would compliment each other. I will say however that the book alone is worth the time it takes to read. In many ways it can be a life changing study. The end result is to have the mind of Christ. You should not rush through the book. Time should be taken to understand and reflect on the material and how it would apply to your life. www.joycemeyer.org

The Rose Love Meal

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:58:07 +0000

I have been to the RBG two weeks ago. While at the Roses Display I noticed that many roses were infested with these small beetles. All going for the nectar.

Love Meal

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:02:38 +0000

I remember the previous church I attended. Once a month we would have a love meal. Everyone would bring something to share. After the service, when it was time to dine, everyone bunched around the tables to get the good eats. The rose photo, which reminded me of those meals, is an exageration of that event... but not by much.

ERAGON by Christopher Paolini

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 18:49:14 +0000

ERAGON by Christopher Paolini published by Alfred A Knopf Fantasy: for young readers Ah, Christmas time, when you reap what your mouth has spoken. I remember mentioning seeing this book at Costgo. What drew me was the title since it was close to Aragorn, one of the heroes of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. I knew immediately that it was a fantasy. Unlike Tolkien's work, this book has as its main readership older children to young teens, aimed more at males. Little did I ever expect to find this book hidden in the toe of my Christmas stocking. Ever since J.K. Rowling wrote her first story about Harry Potter children have been picking up full fledged novels and reading them with a voracious appetite. This has opened the door for others to write novels aimed at a younger audience. Christopher Paolini has done a very good job creating his own fantasy world. It does however lean heavily on the current ideas of what are: witchcraft, sorcery, dragon lore, elves and of course dwarves. The main character is a mid teen from a rural community. By circumstance and a bit of magic he comes into possession of a strange rock. Later, lo and behold... it was an egg with a dragon inside. At this point you can understand that this teen is going to become the "messiah" of the story. There are many characters introduced into the story. Most of them are good and of course some are evil. I won't get into the story because some will want to read it I am sure. At the end of this book good eventually triumphs over a sinister evil but leaves the central bad guy fully intact. That is probably the subject of book two of the series. Like many fantasy books this story portrays an alternate reality. Characters that were once associated with evil have, in this version, become the good guys. God is never mentioned in the book. If you thought that J.K. Rowling's book was a primer to educate young children into the darkness that surrounds Satan... well I believe you will come to the same conclusion with Eragon. Having the book I read it. I found it a light read and enjoyed the telling of the story. I can however see the propaganda of the enemy weaving its way through the telling of the story to influence young minds. I have no idea whether Paolini intended it to be this way... perhaps he simply wrote a good story to make some money. We know however the enemy of Christ will use whatever and whoever he can to take the darkness and make it appear as light. This book has been released as a movie. I have no idea how well it has been received. Though I personally enjoyed the book I do not recommend reading this tale. This goes specially for easily influenced children.

Joe

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:20:14 +0000

I can't recall what was so funny when the picture was taken. Hah, I can't even remember laughing. But here is the proof that at moments I can enjoy myself.

Joe Laughing

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:34:52 +0000

I can't remember what it is that I am laughing at but here is proof that it does happen. This was taken at the beach.

An Icon at the Beach

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:38:15 +0000

This is such a familiar sign to those who travel to the beach. I remeber going to Hutch's when at the old location. Best fish and chips around. Sadly, since the day of the founder's death, the quality of the food has declined.

Labour Day Weekend

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:40:44 +0000

Sooo... it is the Labour Day Weekend. It was nice to spend a bit of time with Linda. We managed to get out a couple of times. On our travels we went to the beach strip for a walk. Parked by Hutch's and didn't go in to eat. They are a far cry from what they were. We have another favourite fish place these days. So, went down the beach breathing in the air and soaking in the sun. We almost played at the water's edge. It was a good walk but it was a bit far (for us). Our bit far is probably your just getting started. ;) The next day we drove north on the #6 highway. Again, didn't go too far but enjoyed the sites. It has been a few years since we drove out of town for leisure. One hour out and one hour back and that was about as much travelling as my bones and butt could take. It surprised me how much the area changed in the last five years. I got to get out more. Overall, a rather enjoyable time. I hope you had a wonderful weekend.

BooHoo…

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:40:20 +0000

I was checking some of my log statistics for my site and discovered that many people have tried to leave a comment. Sadly over the past week there have been attempts to crash part of the internet. It affected not only my site but everyone from the backbone carrier down to individual sites. I want to apologize to those who became as frustrated as I have been over the past week due to this problem. My server host, as well as the backbone carrier, are taking steps to remedy the problem but some delays can still be experienced.

Fall Webworm

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 05:39:10 +0000

This little critter is about one and a half inches in length. They make a nest in leafy trees. The nestsare made like a web repeatedly folded over itself. They are found at the end of branches. The nests can been seen through and I have observed about 30 worms in the nest.

Fall Webworm

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 05:44:48 +0000

Yep, you guessed it. I was walking through the RBG's arboretum and noticed that many of the trees had caterpillar nests at the end of their branches. I took this shot of an enterprising fellow out for a walk. As best as I can tell it is called a "Fall Webworm". Latin name for the intellectually fussy is: Hyphantria Cunea.

Dune: House Atreides

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:24:59 +0000

Dune: House Atreides by Brian Herbert w/ Kevin J Anderson Publisher: Bantam Books (Sci-fi) This is the first book in the Dune trilogy written by Brian Herbert with Kevin J Anderson. The story line begins about forty plus years before the Dune book that started it all. I should note it here that the story is written completely in threads. The chapters are short. After each chapter you are taken to a different location and a different time. The characters are also changed. Some people have a great dislike to this form of story telling. It is necessary with this trilogy because you are covering a wide panorama of future history. Hmmm... future history? The re-telling of stories that haven't occurred yet? The story opens at a time when Baron Harkonnen was actually fit and healthy. When Paulus Atreides, Paul's grandfather, was Duke of Caladan and his son Leto was a teenager. When the evil emperor of the "Dune" book was only a manipulating prince. There are so many other characters and their stories are also told. It is enjoyable to read and get the background that made Dune possible. It is a great "on the bus book" or "coffee break book."

Thanksgiving

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:06:52 +0000

May God give you Of the dew of heaven, Of the fatness of the earth, And plenty of grain and wine.

Happy Thanksgiving to One and All.

The Referendum

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 17:12:28 +0000

Reprinting my post from another location. I like the mixed member option for the referendum. I have been hoping for some form of implementation for decades. At least now we have a chance to vote for its existence. I doubt though that it will pass. There has been enough bad reporting about what it actually is that most will stick to the "tried and true" of first past the post. It would be tougher to get a majority with the mixed but unlike the past, my vote would actually count, everytime. It would give me representation. It would also give everyone else who votes representation no matter who gets elected in a riding. It would also better reflect the will of the people. Would it make it tougher to govern? You bet it would. But it should be hard for governments to turn our world upside down. It may even inspire people to get involved in party politics so they may have a voice in who gets on the published list for the 39 seats.

Liberals Win

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:16:13 +0000

There should be no surprises that the Ontario Liberals have won tonight. It can be put down to the biggest electoral gaff done by John Tory and his Conservatives. What was the gaff? To extend educational moneys to religious/private grade schools. I remember back when Ontario was called the big blue province. It was simply a matter of calling an election and watch the Bill Davis government win again. Then Bill decided to dust off a promise he once made. He decided to extend funding separate schools from grade ten to grade twelve. This was Bill's parting gift as he was about to step down as leader. It passed. Shortly thereafter a election was called. The Big Blue machine was soundly trounced... by the NDP. Voter backlash for extending money to separate schools was the death knell that sounded riding after riding. When John Tory promised to extend money to religious/private schools I heard the same tolling of the bell that defeated the PC's the last time around. I was shocked that he didn't think that it would be much of an issue. So what really happened? From my perspective the Conservatives lost election because of this faux pas. What could have been done after an election was to bring the issue up and have an open debate and an open vote... near the end of the mandate. To give people plenty of time to discuss the issue. I believe it is only fair that if you tax people to educate children then the tax money should go to the schools those children attend. That would be the fair thing to do. But then who said Ontario politics was fair. Liberals for four more years... :(

Volunteering

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 18:22:11 +0000

Reprinted from: RunningPastor: Volunteering Joe said... I have been in churches where the pastor talks about a need in the church and asks for volunteers. I have been in churches where someone believes that something should be done and decide to do it... and enjoy the control. Personally, I find volunteering for ministry a bit difficult. I suffer from depression and know that I may be up one time (so much so that I feel normal) and down the next (you don't want to go there). Yet I find the need to do something for God and his people. When I am brave I ask God to open a door for ministry. He has always been faithful to provide an opening. Though I seem reluctant to get involved and take time to warm up... I do appreciate the gift of ministry that God gives me. When I feel normal it is a somewhat pleasant task... when down, my mind groans but my spirit is encouraged. Crossfire? Everytime I pray, either Roy or Patti, mysterioulsy, create an opportunity for me to minister. I am grateful to God that he moves when I pray and I am thankful that our pastors have ears to hear what God tells them. Sometimes it is a struggle to do the work but I always remember that it is a gift and deep down, in my spirit, I thank God. ...from a reluctant volunteer who desires and needs to minister.

Dune: House Harkonnen

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 16:24:30 +0000

Dune: House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert w/ Kevin J Anderson Published by: Bantam Books Science Fiction Dune House Harkonnen is the second book in a trilogy. Although this book continues in the tradition of the others it does spend a bit more time covering the characters and history of house Harkonnen. If there is to be evil in the Dune saga you can always count on the Harkonnen's to lead the way. Though I did find that Abulard, the Baron's relative, to be the only example in the family line that was nice. Wouldn't mind having them as neighbours. The torture, the treachery, the total disregard for human life, by the rest of this family cannot be equalled by anyone else. The trilogy covers a period of about forty years. This book covers the middle twenty plus years. It is interesting how quickly paced the book covers history. Quite a few characters found in the first book die in this book. Since I have read the other two books in the trilogy I might as well say here that I found the saga of the early years, from old Duke Paulas to the birth of his grandson Paul, to be a highly interesting read for those who love sci-fi. Unlike me, you should read the books in sequence. The order of this Dune trilogy is:

House Atreides
House Harkonnen
House Corrino

Enjoy!

Capital One Commercial

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 21:50:43 +0000

I use to enjoy the Capitol One commercials on television. Usually it was a couple wanting to use a credit card and a horde of wild men would charge the couple only to be foiled when the couple pulled out their Capitol One Card. Recently Capitol One has changed the horde of wild men to a scurrying bunch of bankers. They were like mice or rats burrowing through walls or hiding in dark places. Damaging the home and destroying property in the pursuit of a few dollars or fighting over pennies. I am certain that the people at Capitol One believe the commercial to be humorous. That their intended victims of the funny jabs are bankers. Since they first aired I have found these commercials to be offensive. They are stereo-typing bankers. That alone does not bother me. It isn't wrong to make bankers the butt of jokes. This is what I see: A clean cut man coming to the rescue. He wears a baseball cap and wears a brown shirt. His intended foe are those who control the wealth... bankers. The bankers are portrayed as vermin to be eradicated. The white people look to the brownshirted fellow as a helper. He says he could trap them, the bankers. But the best solution is to get rid of them once and for all. Then he pulls out a Capitol One card. So far? Doesn't seem to be so bad... not really. Sadly, I see another stereotype at work in the commercial. Nazis! I remember seeing brownshirted young men wearing baseball caps. They fought against the supposed Zionists. The Zionist bankers, and therefore the Jews, controlled the wealth. I remember seeing the famous propaganda film that talked about the Jew and yet showed rats scurrying in darkened corners or running in the sewers. The poor white Germans needed a saviour. Not to worry, someone in a brownshirt and baseball cap shows up and says that he has the final solution to this infestation of people. Capitol One wanted me to see bankers being eliminated by their final solution. I hope they didn't make the parallels with Nazi Germany's final solution on purpose. Yet that is what I see everytime I see the commercials. It bothers me. If it bothers you say so. Perhaps we can get Capitol One to change their commercials to something a little less offensive to the few of us who are offended. Here is their contact page: Capitol One :(

Cleaning Up

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 20:22:12 +0000

I don't clean the house often enough for Linda's tastes. I must admit that cleaning is the last thing on my mind. Oh, I have the time, but I seem to be blind when it comes to clutter. Until I want to find something buried in a mound someplace. Today I felt like taking a bold step and clean up the clutter on the couch and coffee table. No-one ever sits on the couch so it becomes a repository for everything transitory. What's even better is that the coffee table is right against the couch so the two of us can really pile it on at times. Today I decided to dive in. Grabbed a couple of bags and began sorting it out. First the garbage, kleenex tissues rolled up into little balls. A few wrappers from candy, a cup cake wrapper, the remains of shelled nuts and a popsicle stick. Oh, can't forget the empty pop-can and the empty bag of chips, doritos and an un-named bag of mysterious origin. As well as a plastic container that held a few chips. Now the major throw-aways. We just took out a temporary subscription to the Spectator. Haven't read most of them. They are being delivered bound by a rubber band. So I save the bands in a dish and throw out the paper, two, three, four and the old tv guides for the past month. Next came the potential file-aways. Letters and other correspondence as well as three shopping magazines and a few not so important fliers. Of course there always seems to be the manditory puzzle magazine or two with accompanying pens and pencils enough to outfit a classroom. Next come the books I have read over the past month. As well as the two books I am curently reading. Not to mention two bibles I use to read and reference and the how to draw book I just started. Then there are her books as well. Showing real signs of progress now. Just a bunch of random papers and bits and pieces missed from the first cull. At last, only one piece, an 8x11 sheef of paper remains. I pick-up the offending litter only to find that it too was covering an object. It was a book. This is the title:

Living Organized

proven steps

for a clutter-free

and beautiful home

;)

As the Crow Flies by Jeffrey Archer

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 06:26:53 +0000

As the Crow Flies by Jeffrey Archer publisher: HarperPaperbacks 1991 fiction Now this was one delightful book to read. The story follows the fictional life of Charlie Trumper. From his early childhood (1900) until his retirement (1970). The story begins with him as a child at his grandfather's barrow in the Whitechapel district of London. These were flat carts, waist high, on wheels with some shelves that would hold produce: potatoes, celery, apples, oranges, etc. They would take up some space along a sidewalk and the owners of the barrow would start their sales pitch. There the story starts and winds its way through seven decades. The book is broken up into 13 different sections. Each section is narrated from the point of view of one of the characters in the book. Some characters, like Charlie, have more than one section. The sections, time lines, overlap so that what appears as a mystery in one section gets its answer in another section. Far from it being repetitive, the stories of each character are entertaining and augment each other. At nearly 800 pages in the paperback the story flies. Charlie's life in the great war, the start of his store to become a small empire, the second world war and onward keeps the material fresh. Of course what would a story be without a protagonist? We have the Trentham's. From the son to his mother you will shake your head. There are a lot of surprises along the way. Linda recommends this book. She thoroughly enjoyed it. I will admit that I also enjoyed the book as well and recommend it. I have found that many copies are available on Ebay. I am certain that it is still in print.

Love and Hate

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 02:53:11 +0000

Reprinting my comment from sheepdog's blog I love playing my guitar and I hate how my body aches when I do it. I open one of my christian song books and begin to play. I give voice to the words and hope springs into the light. The pain that comes is real but his presence makes rich. There is a time coming when there will be no more pain... only the joy will remain. What a wonderful day that will be.

Another Little Nibble

Joseph A. Raymond — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 04:25:40 +0000

So, I was watching TV and felt that I wanted to have a small little snack. Just something light to nibble on. Raising myself from my chair I travelled to the fridge. When you have done something thousands of times it becomes automatic. Standing in front of the fridge I doubt that my feet were more than a millimeter off from every other time I stood there. Hah, you could probably see the imprints of my feet in the floor from where I have so often stood to open the door. Grasping the handle I swing the door open... yet as I opened the door it seemed to snag on something. Mind you, it didn't prevent me from opening the door but it did impede its progress a little. So I closed the door and the same thing happened. Several times I did this, testing, trying to figure out what the problem could be. Was it the hinges beginning to seize up? Too much stuff in the door shelves? I couldn't quite figure out what the door seemed to be snagging on. After several more attempts I finally figured out what the problem was... my figure. As I was opening the door it swung out and touched my T-shirt. Oh well the T-shirt does fit rather snuggly these days. I didn't think I ate that much for supper. Nor could it be the popcorn I ate later. Or the large bowl of icecream. Or the donut. The two cookies. The extra french fries. The glass of milk and the two peanutbutter crackers. Etc. Now really, I only ate one little extra pound of TV fare yet the proof that I am eating too much was right there in front of me. Time to go on a diet? I guess I have to. If not it wouldn't be long before I couldn't open the fridge door at all. Funny, I must lose some weight so that I can continue to eat. What a life.

The Message by Eugene H. Peterson

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:13:18 +0000

The Message by: Eugene H. Peterson publisher: Navpress religion This book I found to be an exasperation to my soul. It is a contemporary language bible translation. As with most new translations there are trouble spots when comparing the text to the King James version of the bible. I am not of the opinion that the King James is the best translation. It is though a good translation if one keeps in mind that the use of words have altered somewhat. Where passages seem strange or downright ridiculous, a Strong's Exhaustive concordance does wonders. This is not the case with The Message. Here are some of my impressions of The Message. The Old testament I don't really have that much of a problem with the Old Testament of The Message. The language is simpler and they have taken some of the boring, highly repetitive passages and made them an easier read. In some places I found that the way of writing a passage was made clearer. Overall the whole of the Old Testament was a nice read. I don't have too many things to say about how Peterson handled the translation. Of course a rabbi may have plenty to complain about. The New Testament Here is where my exasperation begins. It took me three months of casual reading time to get through the old. It took me close to four months of casual reading time to get through the new. Why? What was written didn't have the familiar ring I was expecting. Every page, paragraph and sometimes a single verse didn't seem right. I spent most of my time with a different bible open having to compare passages. I found that too often the intended meaning of the text in The Message was not in line with the New International Version I was using. I like the passage where it compares the word of God to a sharp two edged sword. To separate between bone and muscle. To separate between soul and spirit. Yet to accomplish this it is important what words are used, and what they mean is very important. Some would say that this would then become legalism. However there needs to be discernment in what is being written or you run the risk of accepting a different gospel other than the one that the apostles preached. I am not saying that Peterson is writing a different gospel. I do however say that a watered down version of the gospel has its own dangers. When a sharp instrument is needed for surgery, like a two edged sword, it is totally un-acceptable to use a iron bar. Simple language does not give a precise answer, only an easier to understand answer. That answer then may not be effective. Easy to digest food? Hebrews talks about the milk of the word. No chewing over the text and easy to swallow. I would say that The Message would be good for the beginner. Those who are new to the kingdom. They would get a general overview of the scriptures. Yet we are not to remain children in understanding. To do this we need precision. This is where one needs the meat of scripture to grow into Christian adulthood. The Message fails miserably for that purpose. It is great as a story book and it is terrible as a manual. The use of The Message for long-term study would be ineffective and could retard the growth of individuals. I would go further and say that it would hamper the church where knowledge and its application are needed. As with many modern translations some of the passages are modified to become Politically Correct. Where the bible would talk about "brothers", The Message would talk about about brothers and sisters. These are minor changes. Yet in some places these changes may have gone too far. My pastor says that one area of influence is the local group and the local group will have its own customs. This politically correct interpretation may be fine if one remembers that it is a local custom (Peterson's custom) and not the exact interpretation of the word. I find that with only a few exceptions the new testament of the scripture by Peterson is one giant politically correct exercise of his faith. Because of this you are getting a slightly (or greatly) skewed understanding of the scriptures. In his striving to make things easier to understand Peterson sometimes goes too far. As an example in one place his translation gives credence to those who believe in replacement theology. That is only good if you believe that Christians have inherited all the promises of the old testament and have replaced Israel as God's chosen people. Of course, we have not replaced Israel. We have better promises based on a better covenant as Peter writes in Hebrews. Other times Peterson must of had a bad day. Instead of using contemporary language that most would understand he would use a more esoteric word that would be understood by few. (Like my use of "esoteric" to point that out?) Fortunately that does not occur often. Another strange example is where Peterson has taken a whole passage of one of the gospels and puts in its place a simpler explanation from a different gospel. Again, fortunately those are rare. I could go on but I think you get the point I am trying to make. If you are a baby in Christ then The Message is an appropriate read. If you want a homogenized, cold filtered and pasteurized, skim milk bible to read, and wish to remain an infant in understanding, make The Message your study bible. On the other hand if you wish to hone that sword of the Lord, get a better translation such as the New King James Version or others like it and start reading, comparing and praying. Knowledge is given to those who seek for it in the right places.

Boulders and Stones in the River of God

Joseph A. Raymond — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 19:54:11 +0000

Take the central theme "you are saved by faith, not of works." Is that a boulder or a stone? Depends. Behind that central theme there are a lot of scriptures that a person could use to support the idea. The more scriptures the bigger the boulder. This is a pretty big boulder. Yet there are scriptures that would modify that point such as "without works faith is dead." That scripture itself is a central theme and I consider it to be a stone. Because they appear to be in opposition to each other... There were many fights in the church depending on whether you were standing on that boulder or the other particular stone. Yet at the upper most reaches of the river, where it begins, is a rock. It is that Rock, that was split (remember Moses striking the rock), and out gushes life giving water. Eventually all the love and grace, that is the water of the river, will wear down those stones and boulders. They will become part of the flow. No man will be able to stand on them for they will be moving in love and grace. Where does this river full of life, substance and people end? In a lush valley we call The Promised Land.

Monarch on Lilac

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:34:19 +0000

Just thought it wouldbe nice to show this photo at this time. Of course it was taken at the Royal Botanical Gardens. I like my walks there... as long as the mosquitoes don't bother me.

Monarch on Lilac

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:36:42 +0000

Monarch on Lilac Flowers

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:44:53 +0000

The Storm Approaches

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:47:46 +0000

The snow out my front door

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:34:45 +0000

The snow out our back window

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:35:55 +0000

The Snow has Arrived

Joseph A. Raymond — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:38:23 +0000

At nine Linda said the snow wasn't that bad. I agreed. But I told her when the wind shifted to the north east we would get it. And lo, the words were not out of my mouth and the wind shifted. Eleven hours after my last post and the snow is flying as if it were pursuing a vendetta. An hour later Linda still wanted to go to church. I tried to talk her out of it but she was on a mission to see the special speaker at church. So, off I went to clear the car. Down the street. Round a couple of corners. Trudge, trudge, trudging through the snow. Twenty minutes later I pull up in front of the house. Linda comes down to the steps and gets in. To get to church I have to drive around the next block. As I pass in front of our house again Linda notices how bad the snow is. Well, snow can't be bad, but it would be nice to see out of the windshield. "Better go park the car", she said. Around the next block to our parking space. I had to roll down the windows so I could see to back up the car. Barely got in. Linda and I head back to the house. Down the street. Around a couple of corners. Trudge, trudge, trudging through the snow. A thirty five minute mini-adventure. ;)

One Gunman, One Woman and a Growing List of Victims

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 18:52:36 +0000

A couple of weeks ago a gunman entered a church and began to shoot those who were in attendance that sunday morning. He was an enemy who came through the gates and sought to make victims of the helpless. He was like a lion going to and fro throughout the earth seeking to steal, kill and destroy. There are debates going on about what that woman (and the church) had done (or should have done) to protect those who had entered their establishment. Was there too much force? Should they have allowed themselves to be killed without fighting back as a Christian witness? Or was the act of saving the innocent just? In Rome the authorities rounded up Christians and sent them to the forum. A great witness as Christians, covered in tar and hung on polls, were lit up at night to provide light and entertainment for the pagan populace. Torn by lions, put to the sword, etc. Sounds like a Hebrews moment. Is this always to be the case? A man and his wife, with two male friends from church, are walking down the street. Someone jumps out knocks the man to the ground and then begins to rape his wife. The husband and friends then go to their knees and pray while the rapist continues? Your child is being attacked by other children, getting his head kicked in, again on your knees and prayer? I might stand there and be beaten by others if the only danger is to myself. It is a different thing when it extends to others who are to be "under my protection." The woman who fired the shot will be struggling with the fact that she had taken a life. I think that far better than a dozen or more families struggling with the fact that a crazed gunman killed their husbands, wives and children while everyone stood by and watched. My hat is off to those Mennonites who forgave the gunman who killed their children last year. But would they have simply stood by and allowed the gunman to kill their children if they had the means to stop him? I don't know. Remember that these are crisis moments. How would you respond? Would I cower in fear? Would I throw myself at the enemy? Or would I go down onto my knees and pray while it is happening in front of me. Honestly, I don't know. I would most likely have a different response depending on the kind of day I was having. Did this woman who shot the killer do right? A big part of me shouts "yes!" Yet a small part of me whispers "no." I have placed my life at risk to help an older couple being attacked in their home. I am glad that I helped them. I am even happier that it is a very rare occurence. What would you have done in that church, that sunday morning? Throw yourself at the killer? Stood there and pray for intervention? Cower under the pew crying for God to protect you? Or simply run away with no thought for the people being shot? We hope we know what we would do... but only God knows for sure. Let us extend grace to the woman and to the church, and let God do the judging.

Merry Christmas

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:56:27 +0000

T'was the night before, the night before Christmas. When all through the house Every creature was stirring, Even the mouse. The stockings were hung, on the doorknob with flair, In hope that my spouse, Would fill it with care. There rose such a clatter, As the tree was uncrated, With huffing and puffing, T'was quickly adorned, With lights that twinkled And icicles galore. Getting ready for Christmas Seems quite like a chore Till you remember the children The twinkle of their eyes, and wonder in their hearts. Seems fitting you know, To spend so much time, Spreading cheer and good wishes With those you hold dear. I give thanks to God, For the gift of His son, who started it all One Christmas morn. Merry Christmas

Late Night Visitor

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 19:51:08 +0000

Since we had our windows replaced recently, except for the basement, Linda said that it is now quite a bit cooler down there. I didn't find it to be any cooler at all. That is until this afternoon when I went downstairs to bring those Christmas ornaments boxes back to the basement. "My oh my," I thought, "Linda is right, it is quite a bit cooler down here. In fact, it's pretty cold. Ah well, perhaps I better do something about it someday." Well, it turns out I had to do something immediately. One of the side windows was open and the insulation was on the floor. I walked over and the catch was busted. Someone kicked open the window last night and I didn't hear a thing. That seems to happen everytime an intruder breaks in. Sigh! Well, grabbed a couple of three inch nails and closed the window permanently. Hmmm... maybe I should get the basement windows replaced as well. I checked the house and fortunately nothing was out of place and nothing was taken as far as I could tell. I remember being promted to pray that God protect our house from intruders as I was going up the stairs for the night. He kept them outside. There is only one jolly fellow in a red suit that I want to get into the house this Christmas Eve. I won't pray to keep him out. As for the rest, keep them away Lord, keep them away. Amen!

Myths: what everyone knows to be true but ain’t.

Joseph A. Raymond — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 18:06:22 +0000

Myths? Something that everyone believes but isn't true. Boy, is there a lot of that going around. From old wives tales to everyone knows. Something has to be done about this. I know... I'll create a new word: myth-information. Are you myth-informed? Remember the classic, "The world is flat"? Joe snickers. Here is another one, "we are the product of evolution." Ha ha ha... that one is great. Hmmm... does that mean Christians are faith based and the rest of the world is myth based? It's their myth-stake if they don't believe the bible or God but something or someone else. Hmmm... I like the ring of this new word. ;)

Happy New Year

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:22:16 +0000

*)Happy New Year(*

My thoughts on this day is to wish all my friends and family a happy new year. May the Lord bless you. May he protect you with his hedge of fire. May he grant you health (and for some ever improving health). May all your works in him prosper. Above all these things... may you see into his heart more clearly at the end of this coming year than you see him now.

God bless... God bless... God bless!

First Post of the New Year

Joseph A. Raymond — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:50:50 +0000

I would like to thank all those who participated in Linda's Birthday Eve celebration this past week. It was a memorable occasion. As for today, I look out my window and the sun is shinning in its strength. Sunlight enters the eye and a little bit of serotonin is made in the brain. Ah, that was a nice feeling while it lasted. Also stood in front of the office window, barechested, the sun striking my skin and lo, a bit of vitamin D is created. It rushes through my body and I feel a bone somewhere getting stronger. Hmmm... these two things may be small but I need all the help I can get. Goodness, a celebration of life and two health benefits... what a wonderful start to the year. Hope the start of your year was even more memorable and beneficial. :)

Democratic Michigan Primary

Joseph A. Raymond — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 18:27:56 +0000

I love U.S. politics. I remember back to the presidential election of 2000. Bush was elected by a slim margin. In fact it was so slim that Gore contested the results. I remember the hanging chads debate. Voters being blocked from voting. Polling stations closing early. The mantra that the democrats cried was "every vote counts." The Supreme court let things settle as declared. The ballots with chads were all later counted by an independent group of journalists and Bush still had the slim majority. Despite their best efforts of the democrats the results were true. Then came 2004 and the democrats were wailing their new swan song of every vote counts. Over and over again, ad nauseum. You get the feeling they really do fight for democracy and every vote being counted. Now the 2008 democratic Michigan Primary. Every state wanted to feel important in the selection of their next presedential candidate. Several states decided that they were going to break with tradition and have their primaries earlier than they had in the past. In Michigan this broke with party rules. Here we have the democratic party saying to their own people that unless you play by the rules your vote will counted... BUT... you will not be assigned any delegates to the convention. When it comes to choosing a delegate to represent the party in the presedential run for office, Michigan's voice will be absent because every vote they cast last Tuesday does not count. Seems it doesn't matter what the people of Michigan want... if the federal party says no... they are disenfranchised. The very thing that the democrats desperately tried to lay at the feet of Bush for his two victorious runs for office. None of this comes as a surprise to me. They squeal and shout and complain but their words are meaningless. Hillary, whom I do not like, won the hollow victory. She received 50%+ of the vote. Of course all the other major candidates withdrew their names from the ballot so the next large block of votes, 40%+, went to "none of the above." I guess Hillary was so desperate for a win that she thumbed her nose at the federal party and ran basically un-opposed. And she did that to get no delegates. Her election team says that she can bring the country together again. She can't play fair and nice within her own party. How on earth can she reach the country. U.S. Politics... I love it.

The Falcon’s Prey

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:47:24 +0000

I was watching the birds feeding on the seeds left over from the fall. The next moment the peaceful scene was interupted by a falcon striking one of the birds. After killing the prey in his talons the falcon began to eat his lunch.

Backyard Dinosaurs

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:13:29 +0000

I was looking out the back window of the sun-room this morning. The birds in the backyard were hoping around looking for seeds or bugs to eat. I have seen this scene a thousand times. I thought back to a special I saw on television where one professor of paleantology said that he believes that birds are the direct descendents of dinosaurs. As I watched the birds I thought to myself who are you related to. It must have been a grazer. Then I thought... whatever happened to the meat eaters of the group. Then we had an unexpected visitor. A young peregrin falcon attacked one of the grazers. The falcon pinned its prey with its large talons. In time the prey simply succumbed to the abuse of the falcon. It was strange to see the death of this bird. Even stranger to see the killing and feeding practice. It's one thing to see it on a nature program... quite another to see it acting out in front of the window. I wish I didn't have a screen in the window. I would have liked a better photo to remember this wild kingdom moment. Backyard dinosaurs... who'd a thunk it!

Feasting Falcon

Joseph A. Raymond — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:17:24 +0000