Valuable Lessons from Field Mice
The one who knows much says little; an understanding person remains calm.
- Proverbs 17: 27 (The Message/ReMix)
If a black cat crosses your path, you’re headed for bad luck. If your nose itches, someone is talking about you. If your right eye itches, then something good is going to happen. If your left eye itches, something bad will come your way. If the palm of your right hand itches, someone is going to give you money. Perhaps you are familiar with these timeless myths, folklore [traditional beliefs, practices, legends, and tales of people - transmitted orally], or superstitions; then again, maybe you’re not. Yet, are they worth listening to or reading about? Here is my rationale or response to the one that says, “If your left eye itches, something bad will come your way.”
On this past Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010, news came from California that my sister-in-law, Rosetta, was scheduled for open-heart surgery within 24 hours. Via the telephone, this was certainly bad; bad news especially for someone who has gone through such tremendous health issues as Rose has had to go through. I tell you, she is one strong woman of faith. When the report about her condition reached everyone in the Madison, Henderson, and Jones clan, I recall someone saying to me, “you know, my left eye had been jumping like crazy way before the news came about Rose. I knew bad luck was coming from somewhere…I felt that it was in our family.” {I thought} Wait a minute; this isn’t faith-in-God talk! Hog wash! But on the other hand, I couldn’t figure out why the muscle over my left eye had been twitching [moving suddenly] the day before. Now, the muscle over my left was twitching not my left eye (pupil) itching. What’s the difference between a twitch and an itch? Nevertheless, the news about Rosetta hit home and whether there is any truth from my left eye twitching or itching, the move that was necessary was to pray and believe God.
Instead of relying on a folklore, myth, or superstition, the Bible had constructive wisdom to rely on. Somehow, the thought came to mind concerning “speaking the right words at the right time and the consequences they could bring.” As I reflected on it, I happened to pick up a small paperback book that the Rev. Mel Burton sent me. I remembered telling him how much I enjoyed the first Sunday in July, 2010, when he stepped in as the new Pastor at Thrift United Methodist Church in Charlotte, NC. Anyway, I especially enjoyed his moment with the Children and how the material he used was outstanding.
The children’s book was entitled “Frederick, ” the little field mouse. Written skillfully by Leo Lionni, it is a story of Frederick that highlighted the triumph of the spirit. It detailed how a chatty family of field mice lived in an old stone wall, which wasn’t too far from a barn and special places for food. But in time, the farmers moved away and the possibility of food began to vanish. So, all of them began to gather whatever morsels of food they could find. All four of the mice worked hard except Frederick, who was deemed as a dreamer. “Why don’t you work, Frederick,” they asked. His reply was, “I gather sun rays for the cold dark winter days.”
On several other occasions [while hard work was going on and Frederick stared out in space], he said, “I gather colors…for the winter is gray. I gather words; for the winter days are long and many and we’ll run out of things to say.”
My ears were tuned in when Pastor Burton hit a high note of excitement. “The best part,” he said, “Was when winter set in and there was plenty of food stored away. The family of mice had a good time telling stories and eating themselves away. But they ran out of food and were about ready to give up. Didn’t feel like chatting. Then they remembered the words Frederick had said:
Who scatters snowflakes? Who melts the ice?
Who spoils the weather? Who makes the ice?
Who grows the four-leaf clover in June?
Who dims the daylight? Who lights the moon?
Four little field mice who live in the sky.
Four little field mice…like you and I.
One is the Springmouse who turns on the showers.
Then comes the Summer who paints the flowers.
The Fallmouse is next with walnuts and wheat/
And Winter is last…with cold feet.
Aren’t we lucky the seasons are four?
Think of a year with one less…or one more!”
Pastor Burton clearly emphasized that the story psychologically suggested that when hard times come, healthy memories could tide you over. Frederick, the dreamer, was a good example. This extraordinary mouse was unmoved even as his integrity was questioned. He kept himself mentally alert by envisioning wholesome images and words that would lift the heart.
Pastor Burton’s sermon was based on the impact of encouraging words – spoken at the right time. He highlighted three important lessons to think on: 1) someone always cares for you, 2) we must first and foremost lift up the name of Jesus Christ, and 3) God works through people in remarkable ways. In the first lesson, he brought out the fact that in his early school days, he was earmarked as a participant in a scholastic event. There were four awards given out at the end of the competition; one was for participation, which he received. But his teacher was highly upset because he didn’t get the top award. She cared about him. The second lesson dealt with an experience he had with taking a youth group to the Blue Ridge Mountains (?) and they came across a wooden cross that was leaning heavily from a vertical position. Working together as a team to correct the situation, he learned that all of them saw the need to spiritually lift up the name of Jesus. And finally, an anonymous person provided food for the church with a large financial gift. This drew him to conclude that God works with people who are not bent on receiving recognition for what they do.
"The one who knows much says little; an understanding person remains calm" (Proverbs 17: 27) has the makings of being compared to a mythical saying or hand me down folklore, but instead it comes from Solomon, King of Israel, the son of David – the man after God’s own heart. However, Frederick, the little field mouse provided a value lesson, which is: divine knowledge is given by God for the purpose of being a blessing to others, Your effectiveness comes as a result of being constantly in his presence. Selah
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Fly Robin Fly
A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.
- Proverbs 12:11 (TLB)
Call it weird or highly unusual, but a Red, Red Robin wasn’t “Bob, Bob, Bobbing-along” but speeding (on foot) like a traditional (feathered) road- runner just the other day. The red breasted small wonder “bobbed” [to appear or arise unexpectedly or suddenly] from one side of Emerson Drive to the other –without attempting to flap its wings.
The Red Robin was just inches away from getting run over had I been driving just a bit faster even though I was in a residential area where vehicle the speed was posted at 25 MPH. Why wouldn’t the bird just “fly” across the pavement instead of running on foot? It seemed like the most logical thing to do, but why not? Perhaps there was a scrap of food on the ground from a nearby trash can, an earthworm that had just lifted its head in a precise spot, or the cry of its mate in a nearby tree top. Perhaps one of these may have been reason enough.
However, from a human perspective, running on the ground was very risky. Yet, I’m aware that there are varieties of birds with wings but are unable to fly; for instance the Ostrich – an African bird characterized by long, bare neck and legs, two-towed feet and small wings. Because of its large body and subsequent small size wings, it is unable to take off and soar into the sky. The Ostrich hence relies on foot power rather than wing power. Yet, what about the Red, Red Robin that sped across the pavement almost as fast as a speeding bullet! What practical lesson can be learned from this?
Let’s surmise that the Red Robin was aggressive to provide food for its mate and young in the nest! With that as a possible clue, Proverbs 12:11 gives an example of what it means to live wisely: “A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.” Another translation (the Message/ REMIX) puts the same verse like this; “The one who stays on the job has food on the table; the witless chase whims and fancies.” Notice the bold texted word witless, which is defined as lacking intelligence or wit. No doubt the little Robin serves to remind us that making the right decision [to provide food for itself or others of its kind] very often may be the cause and effect of setbacks –some of course potentially life threatening. But you don’t stand still; learn from life’s training field and trust God-in-Christ to lead you.
I see the Proverbs having more to say to students than to teachers. The book makes it clear that there are no good alternatives to learning wisdom. We are either becoming wise learners or refusing to learn and becoming foolish failures. Check out this wit and wisdom:
Many foxes grow grey, but few grow good.
He most lives who thinks most, feels noblest, and acts best.
He who never fails will never grow rich.
He who pays the piper, calls the tune.
Up, Sluggard, and waste not life; in the grave will be sleeping enough.
There are no riches above a sound body, and no joy above the joy of the heart.
Be ever at leisure to do good; never make business your excuse to decline the works of humanity.
Enjoy the present hour, be mindful of the past; and neither fear nor wish the approaches of the past.
Selah
A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.
- Proverbs 12:11 (TLB)
Call it weird or highly unusual, but a Red, Red Robin wasn’t “Bob, Bob, Bobbing-along” but speeding (on foot) like a traditional (feathered) road- runner just the other day. The red breasted small wonder “bobbed” [to appear or arise unexpectedly or suddenly] from one side of Emerson Drive to the other –without attempting to flap its wings.
The Red Robin was just inches away from getting run over had I been driving just a bit faster even though I was in a residential area where vehicle the speed was posted at 25 MPH. Why wouldn’t the bird just “fly” across the pavement instead of running on foot? It seemed like the most logical thing to do, but why not? Perhaps there was a scrap of food on the ground from a nearby trash can, an earthworm that had just lifted its head in a precise spot, or the cry of its mate in a nearby tree top. Perhaps one of these may have been reason enough.
However, from a human perspective, running on the ground was very risky. Yet, I’m aware that there are varieties of birds with wings but are unable to fly; for instance the Ostrich – an African bird characterized by long, bare neck and legs, two-towed feet and small wings. Because of its large body and subsequent small size wings, it is unable to take off and soar into the sky. The Ostrich hence relies on foot power rather than wing power. Yet, what about the Red, Red Robin that sped across the pavement almost as fast as a speeding bullet! What practical lesson can be learned from this?
Let’s surmise that the Red Robin was aggressive to provide food for its mate and young in the nest! With that as a possible clue, Proverbs 12:11 gives an example of what it means to live wisely: “A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.” Another translation (the Message/ REMIX) puts the same verse like this; “The one who stays on the job has food on the table; the witless chase whims and fancies.” Notice the bold texted word witless, which is defined as lacking intelligence or wit. No doubt the little Robin serves to remind us that making the right decision [to provide food for itself or others of its kind] very often may be the cause and effect of setbacks –some of course potentially life threatening. But you don’t stand still; learn from life’s training field and trust God-in-Christ to lead you.
I see the Proverbs having more to say to students than to teachers. The book makes it clear that there are no good alternatives to learning wisdom. We are either becoming wise learners or refusing to learn and becoming foolish failures. Check out this wit and wisdom:
Many foxes grow grey, but few grow good.
He most lives who thinks most, feels noblest, and acts best.
He who never fails will never grow rich.
He who pays the piper, calls the tune.
Up, Sluggard, and waste not life; in the grave will be sleeping enough.
There are no riches above a sound body, and no joy above the joy of the heart.
Be ever at leisure to do good; never make business your excuse to decline the works of humanity.
Enjoy the present hour, be mindful of the past; and neither fear nor wish the approaches of the past.
Selah
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Sharp as a tack
And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us. – Titus 2:7,8 (TLB)
Each year we celebrate the birth of the United States and America’s independence. More than just an annual observance for the blessings and benefits of living in this great land, the 4th of July celebration provides a special time of remembrance. 11 years ago, July 4, 1999, Morgan Idella Jones was born - the second child of my daughter Giselle and her husband Ron. Grandpa Fred and Grandma Lillie Jones had the good fortune this time to have both of their children and their families together.
Our son, Rick, was up from Melbourne, Florida for a two -week vacation while Giselle’s summer teaching schedule at Bennett College allowed her to be off on Fridays. For a fun filled, 2-day and 1-night outing, pre-arrangement had been made for them at the Great Wolf’s lodge – just outside the city limits of Charlotte and Concord, NC. So, Giselle and Ron drove up from Jamestown, NC while Rick and Lynette traveled a few miles from Matthews, NC where Lynnette’s parents lives. All of us agreed to meet at a convenient restaurant for a family meal on Friday, July 2nd.
Since my wife and I were on a cruise when Father’s day came around, the kids presented me with a belated gift -a brand new cowboy style hat and several gift cards.
To see if the size would fit, I gently placed it on my head and it felt just right! “How do I look, y’all?" Out of the clear blue, Ashley said, “Grandpa, You’re sharp as a tack! Mama said you always liked hats and this one allows your gray hair [on the sides] to show up too.” Micah, the 8-year-old son of Rick and Lynette, politely asked, “ Granddaddy, can I please try on your new hat?” “Yep,” I replied. “But don’t pull down on the brim (the projecting rim or edge) so I will not have to work too hard to keep it looking good.” I chuckled a bit when he put it on.
Ashley, Morgan, and Eden had their turn, but I was thrown for a loop after little Ron had his chance. He looked up with the hat covering nearly his whole head and blared (to sound loudly) out, “Hey, guys, am I sharp as a tack?” We all smiled of course, but my response was, Whoa! Not only is this 5-year old full of wit (keenness of perception or discernment), but he gives special attention to what is being said! Then again all children are impressionable; so, it is important how adults basically behave around them.
The evening meal was delightful. Sleepy time was drawing near especially as the whole clan was tired out from being in the water since checking in at the lodge around 1:30 PM on Friday. I had moments to reminisce when I got home. The short phrase, Sharp as a tack came to mind again and I could see my youngest grandson’s demeanor (the way one behaves or conducts oneself). I rationalized that perhaps he got everyone’s attention by copycatting his oldest sister’s (Ashley) earlier remark. Whatever may have triggered his reaction, his timing nonetheless was noteworthy and even more how he said it.
“Sharp as a tack” is an idiom, which is a speech form or expression of a given language that is peculiar to itself grammatically or that cannot be understood from the individual meaning of its element. For example, "he may be old in years, but he’s sharp as a tack and knows what he’s talking about" can be typically described as idiomatic. On the other hand, what is the logic behind this sentence? Could it be in this instance that “as sharp as a tack” comparatively links old age with applicable knowledge or wisdom? This could be the case; if so, let’s carry it a bit further.
Could it be that Ron’s question be narrowed down and answered in the following way, "I may be a little guy with a lot to learn, but I’m as sharp as a tack. I’m wearing my grandpa’s hat right now and he can teach me?" I believe this is it! From a spiritual perspective, I got the message. Just as a tack is physically a sharp pointed object with a flat head and can used for the exact purpose it was made for, so is my life [living in accordance to God’s will] to serve as a grandfather model for him to follow. As a good example from this awareness, Titus 2: 7,8 records Paul’s insistence that Titus concentrate on being a good example to those around him so that others might see his good deeds and imitates him. Paul’s life would give his words greater impact. This is a powerful discovery. If you want someone to act a certain way, one should live that way himself or herself. So that he or she will earn the right to be heard and his or her life will reinforce what is being taught. Selah
And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us. – Titus 2:7,8 (TLB)
Each year we celebrate the birth of the United States and America’s independence. More than just an annual observance for the blessings and benefits of living in this great land, the 4th of July celebration provides a special time of remembrance. 11 years ago, July 4, 1999, Morgan Idella Jones was born - the second child of my daughter Giselle and her husband Ron. Grandpa Fred and Grandma Lillie Jones had the good fortune this time to have both of their children and their families together.
Our son, Rick, was up from Melbourne, Florida for a two -week vacation while Giselle’s summer teaching schedule at Bennett College allowed her to be off on Fridays. For a fun filled, 2-day and 1-night outing, pre-arrangement had been made for them at the Great Wolf’s lodge – just outside the city limits of Charlotte and Concord, NC. So, Giselle and Ron drove up from Jamestown, NC while Rick and Lynette traveled a few miles from Matthews, NC where Lynnette’s parents lives. All of us agreed to meet at a convenient restaurant for a family meal on Friday, July 2nd.
Since my wife and I were on a cruise when Father’s day came around, the kids presented me with a belated gift -a brand new cowboy style hat and several gift cards.
To see if the size would fit, I gently placed it on my head and it felt just right! “How do I look, y’all?" Out of the clear blue, Ashley said, “Grandpa, You’re sharp as a tack! Mama said you always liked hats and this one allows your gray hair [on the sides] to show up too.” Micah, the 8-year-old son of Rick and Lynette, politely asked, “ Granddaddy, can I please try on your new hat?” “Yep,” I replied. “But don’t pull down on the brim (the projecting rim or edge) so I will not have to work too hard to keep it looking good.” I chuckled a bit when he put it on.
Ashley, Morgan, and Eden had their turn, but I was thrown for a loop after little Ron had his chance. He looked up with the hat covering nearly his whole head and blared (to sound loudly) out, “Hey, guys, am I sharp as a tack?” We all smiled of course, but my response was, Whoa! Not only is this 5-year old full of wit (keenness of perception or discernment), but he gives special attention to what is being said! Then again all children are impressionable; so, it is important how adults basically behave around them.
The evening meal was delightful. Sleepy time was drawing near especially as the whole clan was tired out from being in the water since checking in at the lodge around 1:30 PM on Friday. I had moments to reminisce when I got home. The short phrase, Sharp as a tack came to mind again and I could see my youngest grandson’s demeanor (the way one behaves or conducts oneself). I rationalized that perhaps he got everyone’s attention by copycatting his oldest sister’s (Ashley) earlier remark. Whatever may have triggered his reaction, his timing nonetheless was noteworthy and even more how he said it.
“Sharp as a tack” is an idiom, which is a speech form or expression of a given language that is peculiar to itself grammatically or that cannot be understood from the individual meaning of its element. For example, "he may be old in years, but he’s sharp as a tack and knows what he’s talking about" can be typically described as idiomatic. On the other hand, what is the logic behind this sentence? Could it be in this instance that “as sharp as a tack” comparatively links old age with applicable knowledge or wisdom? This could be the case; if so, let’s carry it a bit further.
Could it be that Ron’s question be narrowed down and answered in the following way, "I may be a little guy with a lot to learn, but I’m as sharp as a tack. I’m wearing my grandpa’s hat right now and he can teach me?" I believe this is it! From a spiritual perspective, I got the message. Just as a tack is physically a sharp pointed object with a flat head and can used for the exact purpose it was made for, so is my life [living in accordance to God’s will] to serve as a grandfather model for him to follow. As a good example from this awareness, Titus 2: 7,8 records Paul’s insistence that Titus concentrate on being a good example to those around him so that others might see his good deeds and imitates him. Paul’s life would give his words greater impact. This is a powerful discovery. If you want someone to act a certain way, one should live that way himself or herself. So that he or she will earn the right to be heard and his or her life will reinforce what is being taught. Selah
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
What It Means to Pay Attention
Then the governor, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, and the high priest, Joshua son of Jehozadak, and all the people with them listened, really listened, to the voice of their God. When God sent the prophet Haggai to them, they paid attention to him. In listening to Haggai, they honored God. – Haggai 1:12 (The Message/ReMix)
Bishop Larry Goodpaster hit another hit another “home run” for me at the closing of our 2010 WNC Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska last week. A “spiritual home run” might be a more adequate word, but in his charge to both clergy and laity, he outlined three things that a missional church does: 1) it engages people, 2) it cooperates and collaborates, and 3) its expands our horizons. Highlighting several churches that epitomized (typical examples of) those points, Bishop Goodpaster gave the ultimatum to “get moving!” In other words as I saw it, he said, “if you want to make a difference [like those churches I just named] “get moving! You have to hit the road…to serve this present age.” In order to Follow Jesus, Make Disciples, and Transform the World, the local church [or true believer in Christ Jesus] is challenged to “rethink church” so as to live and lead the kind of life that would inspire the unchurched to find their way.
So what does it mean to pay attention? The context of Haggai 1:12 deals specifically with the identification of key leaders [Zerrubabel and Joshua] in the rebuilding the house of the Lord in Jerusalem. The Jews, who had returned from captivity in Babylon, were slow in their work due to opposition from hostile neighbors that caused them to be discouraged and to neglect the Temple and thus neglected God. But Haggai’s message turned them around and motivated them to pick up their tools and continue the work they had begun. In other words, the Jews were told to “get moving.” When Bishop said to us in Stuart auditorium that “we must take Jesus more seriously than ourselves,” I reheard Haggai’s plea to his flock that the Temple is the focal point of Judah’s relationship to God.
The latter end of that verse [from the Message/Remix version] says, in listening to Haggai, they honored God. What is the meaning here? First of all, let’s look at like this. How often have you heard a sermon and immediately responded because you recognized that God was speaking through the Pastor? Did you say to yourself something along these lines, “those were some excellent points that the Pastor brought out in the sermon. Lord, show me how to make them real so that I can put them all into practice.” This is putting faith into action. Whenever our spirits are in tune with the Holy Spirit as a sermon or lesson is brought forth, God shows up, as praise [from us] is automatic.
As a result of paying attention to Haggai, notice secondly what the Jews were able to do as addressed in verses 14,15:
So the Lord sparked the enthusiasm of Zerubabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the enthusiasm of Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the enthusiasm of the whole remnant of God’s people. They began rebuilding the house of their God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. (TLB)
Once again the question is so what does it mean to pay attention? Haggai 1: 14,15 clearly illustrates that God shows up to bless those singularly {one person at a time} as well as a group with a spark of enthusiasm necessary in the work of kingdom building. Selah
Then the governor, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, and the high priest, Joshua son of Jehozadak, and all the people with them listened, really listened, to the voice of their God. When God sent the prophet Haggai to them, they paid attention to him. In listening to Haggai, they honored God. – Haggai 1:12 (The Message/ReMix)
Bishop Larry Goodpaster hit another hit another “home run” for me at the closing of our 2010 WNC Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska last week. A “spiritual home run” might be a more adequate word, but in his charge to both clergy and laity, he outlined three things that a missional church does: 1) it engages people, 2) it cooperates and collaborates, and 3) its expands our horizons. Highlighting several churches that epitomized (typical examples of) those points, Bishop Goodpaster gave the ultimatum to “get moving!” In other words as I saw it, he said, “if you want to make a difference [like those churches I just named] “get moving! You have to hit the road…to serve this present age.” In order to Follow Jesus, Make Disciples, and Transform the World, the local church [or true believer in Christ Jesus] is challenged to “rethink church” so as to live and lead the kind of life that would inspire the unchurched to find their way.
So what does it mean to pay attention? The context of Haggai 1:12 deals specifically with the identification of key leaders [Zerrubabel and Joshua] in the rebuilding the house of the Lord in Jerusalem. The Jews, who had returned from captivity in Babylon, were slow in their work due to opposition from hostile neighbors that caused them to be discouraged and to neglect the Temple and thus neglected God. But Haggai’s message turned them around and motivated them to pick up their tools and continue the work they had begun. In other words, the Jews were told to “get moving.” When Bishop said to us in Stuart auditorium that “we must take Jesus more seriously than ourselves,” I reheard Haggai’s plea to his flock that the Temple is the focal point of Judah’s relationship to God.
The latter end of that verse [from the Message/Remix version] says, in listening to Haggai, they honored God. What is the meaning here? First of all, let’s look at like this. How often have you heard a sermon and immediately responded because you recognized that God was speaking through the Pastor? Did you say to yourself something along these lines, “those were some excellent points that the Pastor brought out in the sermon. Lord, show me how to make them real so that I can put them all into practice.” This is putting faith into action. Whenever our spirits are in tune with the Holy Spirit as a sermon or lesson is brought forth, God shows up, as praise [from us] is automatic.
As a result of paying attention to Haggai, notice secondly what the Jews were able to do as addressed in verses 14,15:
So the Lord sparked the enthusiasm of Zerubabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the enthusiasm of Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the enthusiasm of the whole remnant of God’s people. They began rebuilding the house of their God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. (TLB)
Once again the question is so what does it mean to pay attention? Haggai 1: 14,15 clearly illustrates that God shows up to bless those singularly {one person at a time} as well as a group with a spark of enthusiasm necessary in the work of kingdom building. Selah
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
When
It is written: “ As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.” So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
-Roman 14: 11,12 (NIV)
What caught my eye in the USA Today, Tuesday, April 27, 2010, was a front-page article entitled “Young Adults Less Devoted to Faith: Survey shows steady drift from church life.” In the outset, the writer pointed out “that most young adults today don’t pray, don’t worship, and don’t read the Bible. If this trend continues, ‘the Millennial generation will see churches closing as quickly as GM dealerships.” The columnist based her findings from a survey conducted by a Lifeway Christian Resource group. The intent was to focus on 1,200 members from18-29-year-old in order to see their views on spirituality and faith; amazingly the results showed that 72% said they were “really more spiritual than religious.” Among the 65% that called themselves Christian, “many were either mushy Christians or Christians in name only – most of them were just indifferent. As far as measuring their Christianity, the fewer were found to be committed to faith.”
Key overall findings from the survey, highlighted the following:
1) 65% rarely or never pray with others, and 38% almost never pray by themselves either,
2) 65% rarely or never attend worship services,
3) 67% don’t read the Bible or sacred texts,
4) Many are unsure Jesus is the only path to heaven: half say yes, half no.
5) even though some believed that they will go to heaven because they accepted Jesus Christ as savior:
a. 68% didn’t mention faith, religion or spirituality when asked what
was ‘really important in life,’
b. 50% didn’t attend church at least weekly,
c. 36% rarely or never read the Bible. Only 17% read it daily.
These findings are astounding (to strike with sudden wonder-to amaze) in that it is a challenge to clergy and laity to grow “passionately Christian dynamic churches.” Why is this necessary? As the survey pointed out, many in the Millennial generation are veering (turning aside from a course) to “moralistic therapeutic (having healing or curative powers) deism – ‘God wants you to be happy and do good things.’…this isn’t what Christianity is all about.”
After reading the article several more times, I felt an alarm system go off as these question kept cropping up, just why are young people as a whole steadily drifting away from church life? Why has there been a steady rise of doubt that Jesus is the only way to Heaven? Why is there a steady stream of people being alienated from following the examples of Jesus as passed down from the patriarchs of the Old Testament?
Following the poetic style of Rudyard Kipling, I composed the following poem as a means to see into perhaps the real hindrances to faith in the 18-29 group:
It is written: “ As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.” So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
-Roman 14: 11,12 (NIV)
What caught my eye in the USA Today, Tuesday, April 27, 2010, was a front-page article entitled “Young Adults Less Devoted to Faith: Survey shows steady drift from church life.” In the outset, the writer pointed out “that most young adults today don’t pray, don’t worship, and don’t read the Bible. If this trend continues, ‘the Millennial generation will see churches closing as quickly as GM dealerships.” The columnist based her findings from a survey conducted by a Lifeway Christian Resource group. The intent was to focus on 1,200 members from18-29-year-old in order to see their views on spirituality and faith; amazingly the results showed that 72% said they were “really more spiritual than religious.” Among the 65% that called themselves Christian, “many were either mushy Christians or Christians in name only – most of them were just indifferent. As far as measuring their Christianity, the fewer were found to be committed to faith.”
Key overall findings from the survey, highlighted the following:
1) 65% rarely or never pray with others, and 38% almost never pray by themselves either,
2) 65% rarely or never attend worship services,
3) 67% don’t read the Bible or sacred texts,
4) Many are unsure Jesus is the only path to heaven: half say yes, half no.
5) even though some believed that they will go to heaven because they accepted Jesus Christ as savior:
a. 68% didn’t mention faith, religion or spirituality when asked what
was ‘really important in life,’
b. 50% didn’t attend church at least weekly,
c. 36% rarely or never read the Bible. Only 17% read it daily.
These findings are astounding (to strike with sudden wonder-to amaze) in that it is a challenge to clergy and laity to grow “passionately Christian dynamic churches.” Why is this necessary? As the survey pointed out, many in the Millennial generation are veering (turning aside from a course) to “moralistic therapeutic (having healing or curative powers) deism – ‘God wants you to be happy and do good things.’…this isn’t what Christianity is all about.”
After reading the article several more times, I felt an alarm system go off as these question kept cropping up, just why are young people as a whole steadily drifting away from church life? Why has there been a steady rise of doubt that Jesus is the only way to Heaven? Why is there a steady stream of people being alienated from following the examples of Jesus as passed down from the patriarchs of the Old Testament?
Following the poetic style of Rudyard Kipling, I composed the following poem as a means to see into perhaps the real hindrances to faith in the 18-29 group:
When
When you can look within yourself and question what really takes place; finding out what keeps your nerves on edge, realizing all that matters is how you can keep your cool and nor hindering others to lose theirs; coming to grips that you can’t be influenced by facts unsorted, blinded by the lust of the eye that sway logic and brings on spiritual death; or tempted to get what you want without realizing the harm it brings to others;
When you can lay aside your cares and worries, hear the mocking bird chirp melodies on limbs near and far, touch a rose petal, notice the rippling movement of water in a stream, or take a deep breath of fresh air and look up to the sky and mull with a sound: “Wow! What a view!” Taking stock of the moment from nature that surrounds cannot change the will of the soul dampened with doubt and confusion;
When you can move away from those that unthinkingly and purposely belittles the poor, the disenfranchised, the alien, or those that blasphemes the name of God without a flinch or shame to be found; When even your closest friend that you call a buddy, a pal that sticks closer than glue; invites you to question what you know is right and leads you down a road filled with enslavement – become the wiserand run away as fast as you can.
When the stand you take for good causes you to be alone and forsaken, as loneliness creeps in and no peace can be found; your pockets seem to have holes and the refrigerator is bare – the automobile becomes a snare and you cry out in a moment, “is there hope anywhere?”
When you’ve reached the end of your rope, breathe in and breathe out; realize that even this is a miracle from the God who loves you beyond a doubt and is still waiting for you, my child, to come around; taking stock of who He is, just as putting confidence in a chair that you sit in, or trust in a pilot that flies a plane; this loving God -in- Christ can be yours! It’s just that simple and plain; for there’s hope in no other name.
When you can look within yourself and question what really takes place; finding out what keeps your nerves on edge, realizing all that matters is how you can keep your cool and nor hindering others to lose theirs; coming to grips that you can’t be influenced by facts unsorted, blinded by the lust of the eye that sway logic and brings on spiritual death; or tempted to get what you want without realizing the harm it brings to others;
When you can lay aside your cares and worries, hear the mocking bird chirp melodies on limbs near and far, touch a rose petal, notice the rippling movement of water in a stream, or take a deep breath of fresh air and look up to the sky and mull with a sound: “Wow! What a view!” Taking stock of the moment from nature that surrounds cannot change the will of the soul dampened with doubt and confusion;
When you can move away from those that unthinkingly and purposely belittles the poor, the disenfranchised, the alien, or those that blasphemes the name of God without a flinch or shame to be found; When even your closest friend that you call a buddy, a pal that sticks closer than glue; invites you to question what you know is right and leads you down a road filled with enslavement – become the wiserand run away as fast as you can.
When the stand you take for good causes you to be alone and forsaken, as loneliness creeps in and no peace can be found; your pockets seem to have holes and the refrigerator is bare – the automobile becomes a snare and you cry out in a moment, “is there hope anywhere?”
When you’ve reached the end of your rope, breathe in and breathe out; realize that even this is a miracle from the God who loves you beyond a doubt and is still waiting for you, my child, to come around; taking stock of who He is, just as putting confidence in a chair that you sit in, or trust in a pilot that flies a plane; this loving God -in- Christ can be yours! It’s just that simple and plain; for there’s hope in no other name.
When faith takes hold like a seed in the ground; doubts will disappear and your eternal future secured, then and only then will you have grown up and become a man or woman - transformed never to doubt again!
Selah
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Sooner or later
No one can live forever; all will die. No one can escape the power of the grave. – Psalm 89:48 (TLB)
It was just a month or so that I received a phone call early in the morning from a former co-worker and friend at Guilford Technical Community in Jamestown, North Carolina that had me reeling and rocking with some strange news. Margaret said, “Fred! I’m glad to hear your voice. Let me tell you why! The art department staff was all messed up along with just about everyone else at GTCC because the word had gotten out from the Greensboro News & Record as well as the High Point Enterprise that you [a long time resident of High Point] were declared dead at 67 years old. Yeah! I told my folks that I was going to call you directly regardless of the rumors I heard. You’re talking to me right now; so you aren’t dead - that’s all that matters!” Well! I was rattled for a moment, but realized that the Frederick Jones of High Point {even though his age and mine are the same} wasn’t me. On the other hand, it felt good especially to chat with an old friend that I hadn’t heard from in a long while. Before hanging up, we talked about getting together over lunch to reminisce a bit about the good old days. Sooner or later…by and by our paths would cross.
Sooner or later. There is something worth exploring from this. Perhaps the best place to begin is by asking the question, is there anyway to align it with the Scriptures? I reached a conclusion based on two findings. First of all, Hebrews 9:27, 28 point out that “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all times as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.”
From this, I see that I [like you] will die a physical death; there is no escaping it, just as there will be not escaping judgment. As sure as death is itself, judgment awaits. At God’s judgment there will be no higher court of appeal should the verdict not be to our liking. Yet if one should hope for a favorable verdict in God’s court, he or she should hope entirely on Jesus. This is [or should be] the ultimate cry or prayer for the unsaved – for the freedom and pardon Jesus has won for them. Reality truly sets in! Then there is reason to rejoice that God’s judgment of them will be based on the perfect life of his Son, Jesus. So when this comes full circle spiritually, they can tell others. For many will face an unfavorable judgment without Jesus.
The second result grew out Hebrews 9:27,28 regarding the inevitability of death, God’s judgment against those who refuse to accept Jesus atoning sacrifice for sin, and Jesus’ second coming. This led to the issue of transformation. How important is this? Check out what 1Corinthians 15:51-53 has to say about it.
But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.
Give attention to such phrases as “we will not all die,” “we will all be transformed,” “when the last trumpet sounds,” and “for our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die.” Mercy! The Reverend John Love, Pastor of Webb’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Denver, North Carolina, opened my eyes to this (the significance of dying, eternal life, etc) on April 25, 2010 – the fourth Sunday of Easter. His sermon was entitled “2012,” which was taken from Revelation 7:9-17. As Rev. Love pointed out, the year 2012 is none other than Hollywood’s interpretation of what the end times will unfold – it is a fear inducing thing based entirely on the “sci-fi Method,” which always has an element of terror or fright.
There were several points that he brought out: (1) God will be with us regardless of our circumstances, (2) define yourself by the promises of God and not your own predicament, (3) life is linear; first there is birth and then there is death, (4) this is God’s world. He is in control of what is and what is to come, and (5) whenever it become difficult to understand life’s perplexities, put whatever it is into God’s mystery bank. He knows the past, the present, and the future. Hey, I like this! Reverend Love can put it together!
For the Frederick Jones that died and was not I, my prayer is that he met God in Christ before leaving this earth. As for me, the real Frederick N. Jones, Sr. who is living right now, my goal is to anticipate that sooner or later I will be transformed from death into life and to be with Jesus through all eternity. Selah
No one can live forever; all will die. No one can escape the power of the grave. – Psalm 89:48 (TLB)
It was just a month or so that I received a phone call early in the morning from a former co-worker and friend at Guilford Technical Community in Jamestown, North Carolina that had me reeling and rocking with some strange news. Margaret said, “Fred! I’m glad to hear your voice. Let me tell you why! The art department staff was all messed up along with just about everyone else at GTCC because the word had gotten out from the Greensboro News & Record as well as the High Point Enterprise that you [a long time resident of High Point] were declared dead at 67 years old. Yeah! I told my folks that I was going to call you directly regardless of the rumors I heard. You’re talking to me right now; so you aren’t dead - that’s all that matters!” Well! I was rattled for a moment, but realized that the Frederick Jones of High Point {even though his age and mine are the same} wasn’t me. On the other hand, it felt good especially to chat with an old friend that I hadn’t heard from in a long while. Before hanging up, we talked about getting together over lunch to reminisce a bit about the good old days. Sooner or later…by and by our paths would cross.
Sooner or later. There is something worth exploring from this. Perhaps the best place to begin is by asking the question, is there anyway to align it with the Scriptures? I reached a conclusion based on two findings. First of all, Hebrews 9:27, 28 point out that “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all times as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.”
From this, I see that I [like you] will die a physical death; there is no escaping it, just as there will be not escaping judgment. As sure as death is itself, judgment awaits. At God’s judgment there will be no higher court of appeal should the verdict not be to our liking. Yet if one should hope for a favorable verdict in God’s court, he or she should hope entirely on Jesus. This is [or should be] the ultimate cry or prayer for the unsaved – for the freedom and pardon Jesus has won for them. Reality truly sets in! Then there is reason to rejoice that God’s judgment of them will be based on the perfect life of his Son, Jesus. So when this comes full circle spiritually, they can tell others. For many will face an unfavorable judgment without Jesus.
The second result grew out Hebrews 9:27,28 regarding the inevitability of death, God’s judgment against those who refuse to accept Jesus atoning sacrifice for sin, and Jesus’ second coming. This led to the issue of transformation. How important is this? Check out what 1Corinthians 15:51-53 has to say about it.
But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.
Give attention to such phrases as “we will not all die,” “we will all be transformed,” “when the last trumpet sounds,” and “for our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die.” Mercy! The Reverend John Love, Pastor of Webb’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Denver, North Carolina, opened my eyes to this (the significance of dying, eternal life, etc) on April 25, 2010 – the fourth Sunday of Easter. His sermon was entitled “2012,” which was taken from Revelation 7:9-17. As Rev. Love pointed out, the year 2012 is none other than Hollywood’s interpretation of what the end times will unfold – it is a fear inducing thing based entirely on the “sci-fi Method,” which always has an element of terror or fright.
There were several points that he brought out: (1) God will be with us regardless of our circumstances, (2) define yourself by the promises of God and not your own predicament, (3) life is linear; first there is birth and then there is death, (4) this is God’s world. He is in control of what is and what is to come, and (5) whenever it become difficult to understand life’s perplexities, put whatever it is into God’s mystery bank. He knows the past, the present, and the future. Hey, I like this! Reverend Love can put it together!
For the Frederick Jones that died and was not I, my prayer is that he met God in Christ before leaving this earth. As for me, the real Frederick N. Jones, Sr. who is living right now, my goal is to anticipate that sooner or later I will be transformed from death into life and to be with Jesus through all eternity. Selah
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Great Day in the Morning
They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For every since the world was created, people have seen the earth and the sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. – Roman 1:19,20 (TLB)
I remember it well! Five days after my oldest granddaughter’s 13th birthday on March 24th, I had to drive to Charlotte, NC to ensure arrangements for a post birthday party for Ashley, her sister, and two of her girlfriends at the Wolf’s Lodge off of the Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. I took the scenic route from Mooresville to Charlotte on highway 150 East. With the anticipation of leaving early enough in the morning, I felt I would beat the heavy traffic on I85 South. I am glad I stuck to that route because as I peered over my dashboard, I saw some clouds form against a reddish-pink sky and trees on the ground. With the sun rising in the East [it was around 6:40 a.m. (?)], the sight was breathtaking! The clouds moved in such a way that as the light broke through {at certain spots}, those higher up had the top part illuminated while those lower only had the bottom portions lit. I kept looking with a note of praise to God. Wow! Great day in the morning!
My artistic juices kicked in as the light blue and pinkish colors danced in the adjoining light of the sun. I didn’t want that experience to die; so, I made up my mind to do something about it the very next day. I’d charged up my trusty camera and placed it on the front seat of my car determined to capture the beauty of clouds and sky. Well! I never had highway 150 all to myself, but it just happened that I found the right spot to pull off the road and snatch my camera out of the bag. A country store was near and there was a wide view of the landscape.
They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For every since the world was created, people have seen the earth and the sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. – Roman 1:19,20 (TLB)
I remember it well! Five days after my oldest granddaughter’s 13th birthday on March 24th, I had to drive to Charlotte, NC to ensure arrangements for a post birthday party for Ashley, her sister, and two of her girlfriends at the Wolf’s Lodge off of the Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. I took the scenic route from Mooresville to Charlotte on highway 150 East. With the anticipation of leaving early enough in the morning, I felt I would beat the heavy traffic on I85 South. I am glad I stuck to that route because as I peered over my dashboard, I saw some clouds form against a reddish-pink sky and trees on the ground. With the sun rising in the East [it was around 6:40 a.m. (?)], the sight was breathtaking! The clouds moved in such a way that as the light broke through {at certain spots}, those higher up had the top part illuminated while those lower only had the bottom portions lit. I kept looking with a note of praise to God. Wow! Great day in the morning!
My artistic juices kicked in as the light blue and pinkish colors danced in the adjoining light of the sun. I didn’t want that experience to die; so, I made up my mind to do something about it the very next day. I’d charged up my trusty camera and placed it on the front seat of my car determined to capture the beauty of clouds and sky. Well! I never had highway 150 all to myself, but it just happened that I found the right spot to pull off the road and snatch my camera out of the bag. A country store was near and there was a wide view of the landscape.
The Holy Spirit reminded me what King David said in Psalm 19: 1-6:
The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat.
Beyond a doubt, King David responded both to God’s creation and how God’s word revealed God’s greatness. What lesson should it teach us? We are surrounded by fantastic displays of God’s craftsmanship – the heavens give dramatic evidence of his existence, his power, his love, and his care. To say that the universe happened by chance is absurd. Its design, intricacy, and orderliness point to a personally involved Creator. I’m reminded that when I look at God’s handiwork in nature and the heavens, I can immediately thank him for such magnificent beauty and the truth it reveals about him.
Along that same line, the apostle Paul pointed out something worth thinking about in Romans 1: 18-20. As I see it, although nature reveals God, people need to be told about Jesus and how [through him] they can have a personal relationship with God. Knowing that God exists is not enough. People must learn that God is loving and that he sent his Son to demonstrate his love (Romans 5:8). They must be shown how to accept God’s forgiveness of their sins. Selah
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