tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76104293468001441202024-02-19T20:30:22.962-05:00Plumb LinesWilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-28741254586546631942012-03-24T15:24:00.003-05:002012-03-24T15:32:50.627-05:00My own Psalms<span style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);">This week I was asked to write some personal Psalms for a particular class I am taking. The assignment seemed simple enough: </span><span style="display: inline; font-style: italic; color: rgb(192, 192, 192);" class="details"><span id="_ctl0_MainContent_SyllabusDisplay1">Compose two original psalms, one a Psalm of Praise and one a Psalm of Lament. Make these personal and genuine. </span></span><span style="display: inline; color: rgb(192, 192, 192);" class="details"><span id="_ctl0_MainContent_SyllabusDisplay1"><br /><br />Well</span></span><span style="display: inline; font-style: italic; color: rgb(192, 192, 192);" class="details"><span id="_ctl0_MainContent_SyllabusDisplay1"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>, </span></span><span style="display: inline;" class="details"><span id="_ctl0_MainContent_SyllabusDisplay1"><span style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);">at least it sounded simple on the surface. I as started writing, though, I found this to be a deeply moving exercise. I may sound a bit "cheesy," but I certainly think you might benefit by doing this yourself. Give yourself a chance to put the emotions of your heart on paper, pour yourself out to God through your pen. </span><br style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);"><br style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);"><span style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);">At the risk of displaying the stench of my heart, I felt it oddly necessary to share one of my own Psalms, a Psalm of Lament: </span><br /><br style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Psalm of Lament</span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Why, O God, does my heart flutter and fail;</span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> Why does my soul cry out in anguish?</span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">I have sinned against You, my Lord; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> With my deeds I have failed You again. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">My sins, guilt, and shame torment my spirit; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> I feel as though You are far away from sight. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">My sins are like weights that crush my soul; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> I am rubbish and dead by what I have done. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Why do I run in my own direction, apart from Your paths? </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> My ways are false, fruitless, and full of futility. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Your methods are pure and upright, leading to life abundant; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> My schemes are selfish, evil, grotesque, and hypocritical. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Temptation beckons to my spirit, and pleads for my soul; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> Sin calls out to me, luring my heart from Your ways. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">How, O Father, have I come so far? </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> I am miles from the comfort of Your love. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">I am ruined, yes destroyed, by my sin. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> There is no life apart from righteousness. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Bring me back, merciful Forgiver, O gracious One; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> Accept my wayward soul in spite of my wandering Heart. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Mercy and forgiveness are the things I seek; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> Can there still be hope for one like me? </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">I plead and pray to You, to You alone; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> You, yes only You, are my one true hope.</span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Be my Deliverer, my Rescuer, my Savior; </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"> Be my Redeemer, Be my God. </span><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><br style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">Amen. </span><br /></span></span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-57900967294034268582011-08-19T14:03:00.008-05:002011-08-19T16:23:25.980-05:00A REAL Bucket List<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRIEFom9IC2fymR-T0_9eJPRONlUUc4_UMG-ME2diPhNy_qLYfv1jetNCXbn7qOIgIsfx73bg4x6HOhS4l49vMqfySTEN-IpAeJ8tBhmzKjM0_yiWALar0bZTBUWRorZewTPCGHzQRlE/s1600/buckets.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRIEFom9IC2fymR-T0_9eJPRONlUUc4_UMG-ME2diPhNy_qLYfv1jetNCXbn7qOIgIsfx73bg4x6HOhS4l49vMqfySTEN-IpAeJ8tBhmzKjM0_yiWALar0bZTBUWRorZewTPCGHzQRlE/s320/buckets.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642655742437995954" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">This week I stumbled upon an interesting website called</span> <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);" href="http://bucketlist.org/">bucketlist.org</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">.</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">The concept is pretty cool and simple enough - you create a list of things you hope to accomplish or experience before you kick the proverbial bucket. It reminds me of a song performed by Tim McGraw, I think it's called</span> <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xSGLZd9Vg4">Live Like You Were Dying</a> <span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">(yes, I am a Tim McGraw fan). If you ask me, life <span style="font-style: italic;">should</span> be lived, really enjoyed and treasured. I wish I always acted as though this idea was rooted deep in my being. </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">But I don't.</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> I have lots of days that seem to just kind of begin and end without much in between. Man, this is missing it. Just plain missing it. </span>
<br />
<br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">Best-selling author </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erma_Bombeck">Erma Brombeck</a> <span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">said, <span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, I used everything you gave me."</span> Perhaps this should really be the heart of a legitimate bucket list. Without meaning to scrutinize others' dreams, I can't help but question whether or not we have adopted a shallow concept of what a </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">real bucket list</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> should look like. Admittedly, my initial thoughts for a personal list includes (in random order):</span>
<br /><ul style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"><li>Earn my pilot's license</li><li>Sail from Panama City to the Caribbean Islands
<br /></li><li>Watch a Red Sox/Yankees game from the top of the <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);" href="http://www.fenwayticketking.com/red_sox_green_monster_seats.html">Green Monster</a></li><li>Bag an Alaskan Moose to have mounted and placed above my fireplace
<br /></li><li>Travel with Claire to New Guinea</li></ul><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">You get the idea. My </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">selfish</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> bucket list would have a ton of things that were exciting, exotic, and expensive (the American dream, right?!) But, what if this list took a backseat to another one, a more </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">selfless</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> list. This whole concept is inspired for me by a young lady you may have probably heard of by now:</span> <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);" href="http://mycharitywater.org/p/campaign?campaign_id=16396">Rachel Beckwith</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 153);">.</span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">Not even 9 years old before her transition from this life to the next and she got it, I mean really got it. Her idea of a birthday present was raising money and giving it away to people in need. What an incredible heart, what an incredible attitude. Suppose Christians adopted this same mindset and began acting as if this were most important to us. What a world of difference I believe our culture would see in us, our faith, our God. I dare myself to live like Rachel Beckwith. I challenge myself to re-evaluate what my personal bucket list should look like. Maybe more like:</span>
<br /><ul style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"><li>Travel to meet my Compassion Int'l child in Africa to hug him and tell him face-to-face that I really do love him</li><li>Preach God's love and grace to students every month</li><li>Build a home for a family as an expression of God's desire to bless people</li><li>Adopt a child who feels unloved to show them how precious they truly are</li><li>Smile regularly - even when I feel discouraged</li><li>Invite more people to have dinner with my family</li><li>Pray with Claire to God the Father daily</li><li>Hug my mom and dad every chance I get
<br /></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">I think this list is shaping up a lot better...</span>
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Now, if you care to share I would love to hear from you - <span style="font-weight: bold;">what's on your </span></span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-weight: bold;">real bucket list?</span>
<br />Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-57398177790037374762011-08-13T13:47:00.010-05:002011-08-13T14:16:05.101-05:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78573755/give-hope-africa-adoption-t-shirt-unisex"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 270px; height: 202px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.259741171.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 102);">So here's a very cool idea: dressing for a cause. It has become real easy for people to make a positive statement with the threads they choose to put on their backs. Take, for example, one family's nicely designed T-Shirts, which you can find here:</span> <a style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWaymanFamilyNest">http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheWaymanFamilyNest</a>
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 102);">The Wayman Family is in the process of adopting a child from Africa (Ethiopia I believe). If you would like to join them in their cause to share love with the children of the world, and look stylish at the same time, then you can purchase one of these shirts off their website. The proceeds will be used to help the Wayman's with the costs of bringing home their bundle of joy. As I think about the incredible example of love demonstrated by those who pursue children in adoption I am reminded of God's love for us. He is the ultimate example love and calls us His very own sons and daughters:<span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 51);"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">2 Corinthians 6:18 - I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. </span>
<br />Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-22798954764346890012011-07-30T13:01:00.003-05:002011-07-30T13:25:33.378-05:00Solid Rock Bible Camp<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHs9sxu3Cku7zlYDG4e05vspMtUVXICSYuYHtEiQ6CEogMDqYq1NmsCS8SGLeoGyOs2MUzRd9B1vD94SfMt4AiTrqcFU9eFRFpok10ZuoHUwATU_GV2LgrqcV08H8vUJ-YR5bfaCcsl7I/s1600/Great+Bend%252C+KS.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHs9sxu3Cku7zlYDG4e05vspMtUVXICSYuYHtEiQ6CEogMDqYq1NmsCS8SGLeoGyOs2MUzRd9B1vD94SfMt4AiTrqcFU9eFRFpok10ZuoHUwATU_GV2LgrqcV08H8vUJ-YR5bfaCcsl7I/s320/Great+Bend%252C+KS.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635212774455454386" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 102);">Tomorrow, just after lunch, I will take off from Dallas, TX headed for </span><a style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);" href="http://solidrockbiblecamp.yolasite.com/">Solid Rock Bible Camp</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 102);"> <span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 102);">just outside Great Bend, Kansas! This is a great opportunity for me to share the Truth of Christ with some eager middle school students in an environment perfect for spiritual growth. Getting outdoors and surrounding myself with God's creation does wonders for my soul (as I think it does for most people). This camp offers plenty of time for students and staff to get outdoors and play lots of group games, hit the swimming pool, and even go horseback riding. I will be speaking throughout the week and praying for God's Word to work on all of our hearts. As is normally case, I am filled with anxiousness and excitement as I get all my ducks in a row for the students. For some reason preaching always tends to work me in a frenzy! I am reminded, though, that God will be faithful to do His thing and that I need not sweat the small stuff. This week should be a blast, but I also pray that it will be fruitful. My mission and prayer is to lead the students to a more faithful life, one in which they realize the priceless value of the Cross and engage their hearts fully in God. I hope you will take a moment to join with me in this prayer for these students. May their hearts become fully alive and pleasing to Him!</span></span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-50022012726881247922011-01-02T15:03:00.005-05:002011-01-02T16:04:23.180-05:00New Year/New Push<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIx70xddHq-MMey_bltXeHuaqWEB_eUCuRoWkZtE8h7Cc0_0A2EdaQRzwyQyTuw310Dj9xq6CtkG7U60LRt4N-gfAOVdLmZhOa9-UtggWeXPlM3NPP_ubY66zB7bVq4tZIWcWxQFnwpU4/s1600/new+years+resolutions-saidaonline.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIx70xddHq-MMey_bltXeHuaqWEB_eUCuRoWkZtE8h7Cc0_0A2EdaQRzwyQyTuw310Dj9xq6CtkG7U60LRt4N-gfAOVdLmZhOa9-UtggWeXPlM3NPP_ubY66zB7bVq4tZIWcWxQFnwpU4/s320/new+years+resolutions-saidaonline.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557689278485259842" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">This morning we had a really thought-provoking sermon in church from preacher Bill White. Of the many issues he discussed the one that really generated the most thought for me was the concept of self-accountability. Many Christian men and women are phenomenal "encouragers". In the New Testament one of Paul's close companions was a man known as Barnabas, which roughly translates as </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">The Encourager.</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> I am very grateful for those God has put in my life to give the extra push that keeps me going in the right direction. I hope that I never take for granted the Barnabas-type people in my life. Many of these are the ones who also are willing to ask me the uncomfortable or tough questions that help me stay grounded and humble in my walk. I need those questions and that brutal accountability. But what if these people, and their accountability, disappear? What happens to me and my spiritual health then? I have never really thought about this (and hope that it never actually happens). Realistically, though, it is possible to live without partner accountability. As Christians we are never without accountability. We must discipline ourselves to be accountable to ourselves and to God. A lack of partner accountability provides no excuse for lackadaisical living. God demands and deserves a devoted life. There has to be a point when a man determines in his heart to be accountable to himself and to his King. Ultimately we will all be required to answer for our own actions, and no excuse will be acceptable. We need to have a "holiness or bust" attitude that pushes us to chase after God's heart in spite of difficult, "accountable-less" circumstances. I am praying that with the onset of the New Year I would be driven to leave excuses in the garbage where they belong and pursue righteous living for myself and my King. Will it be great to have partner accountability? Absolutely. And I'll take every ounce of it I can get. But the bottom line is my new push will be to <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">make myself accountable to myself.</span> </span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-13254101381876274142010-12-10T11:01:00.002-05:002010-12-10T11:16:37.264-05:001 Gift - 2 People<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DbZlMjuuZ8zG2EPnqreWmobjKfFIGzI_OA3aPfTSAHpPDBrJecdMevTMHy47InJYJ-jMpTzhqhM7AT9JCLe9PXvH5GOgzyVwaRUODE89KQ6rEpmU7b9wDz4Z1_YgBiiFry7V5GDsKww/s1600/Maji"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 92px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DbZlMjuuZ8zG2EPnqreWmobjKfFIGzI_OA3aPfTSAHpPDBrJecdMevTMHy47InJYJ-jMpTzhqhM7AT9JCLe9PXvH5GOgzyVwaRUODE89KQ6rEpmU7b9wDz4Z1_YgBiiFry7V5GDsKww/s320/Maji" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549088098636627554" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">This is awesome. I love when people put their creative thinking to work and use it to solve dilemmas in our world. There are so many ways we can make positive impacts in our cultures, societies, and around the planet that it really is a shame we don't do it more often. Well, here is a solid way to make an impact while turning on the light in another person's brain. Check out the website <span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">http://majiwater.com/ </span>and do some reading. Read what the organization's purpose is and ask yourself, "How much would I really appreciate a clean, fresh gallon of water? Especially if there was no clean water available?" Now, get busy helping other people and provide for a major need in their life. Water. It's just water. But for millions of folks water is not </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">just</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"> water. It's precious. Do yourself a favor this month: Buy some water from the </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Maji Water</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"> website and pour into another person's life. Give some bottles of </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Maji Water</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"> to friends and family for Christmas and get them on board, too. Heck, make it your Christmas tradition. While you're out making a difference buying water for others remember what Christ has done for you, "<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Whoever drinks the of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.</span>" Buy water from </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Maji Water</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">. </span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-57963710380066706152010-07-21T14:52:00.004-05:002010-07-21T15:22:17.589-05:00Dude! It's a Double-Rainbooooowwwww! What does it mean?<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OQSNhk5ICTI&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OQSNhk5ICTI&hl=en_US&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 255, 153);">This video had me cracking up! I couldn't stop laughing and the guys that watched with me were seriously crying because it is so funny! The guy who video's this is something different to say the least, but in a way I can't blame him for his reaction to what he sees. Think about this: </span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Romans 1:20 </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 255, 153);">explains that we will be able to experience a little bit of the goodness of God through His creation. While this guy certainly seems to be enthralled by the beauty of the rainbow I don't think it is out of the question for humans to sometimes become overwhelmed with the beauty of God's creation. </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 255, 153);">Plus this is just a hilarious video. Have fun. </span><br /></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-45222226338214973072010-06-23T11:51:00.004-05:002010-06-23T11:57:28.111-05:00Encouragement<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">Today calls for a little encouragement. This silly, uplifting video should do the trick. The little girl in the video is a good reminder of the attitude we all need to have. Even when times are tough, like not being able to look in the mirror unless your stand on the counter, you can rest assured that are some really good things going on in life. I hope that I can rid myself of negativity on a regular basis and count my many, many blessings. God is a wonderful Father and every good and perfect gift comes from Him. Are there things that you are thankful for? Are there areas in life you've felt defeated lately? Well kick that defeated attitude to the curb and begin this self-affirmation activity ASAP! We all need do this! </span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qR3rK0kZFkg&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qR3rK0kZFkg&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-68967023962029989122010-06-22T16:35:00.011-05:002010-06-22T22:37:35.962-05:00Incredible Video: McDonald's/Coca Cola Classic<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">Here's an incredible video. The video is found on Lanny Donoho's website: <span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">(</span>http://www.lannydonoho.com/<span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">).</span> </span>I can't imagine how much time and energy went into making this thing! I wish I had the equipment and know-how to pull off something like this! Watch it and be amazed. It will make you appreciate cool videos all the more.</span><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DKWdSCt4jGE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DKWdSCt4jGE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">By the way, for all of you nay-sayers who think this type of stuff is for the birds, you should be aware of the fact that McDonald's and Coca Cola Classic just hired this team. The fast food/soda company duo asked the team to produce a commercial featuring their stellar use of T-Shirts and same actors. I'd say that's quite the pay day. See Video Here: </span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iLoA6BpUWqQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iLoA6BpUWqQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-32756544047503001442010-06-21T13:47:00.007-05:002010-06-22T22:49:44.698-05:00Lanny Donoho and www.thinkbigstuf.com<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeKCnzUgp7DRqTryj8c7BuBlCTxdljwzzFoIUQ6gxLdvi9xAmxHatJB0zn7rW0zq5HGAAx02r_5b9XlgisWMXPxXY7NTxXoa8ia_4fGNxXCARv_e7pfk_J1H7XVZGgKGXyWeXR7XVRWc/s1600/logo.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOeKCnzUgp7DRqTryj8c7BuBlCTxdljwzzFoIUQ6gxLdvi9xAmxHatJB0zn7rW0zq5HGAAx02r_5b9XlgisWMXPxXY7NTxXoa8ia_4fGNxXCARv_e7pfk_J1H7XVZGgKGXyWeXR7XVRWc/s320/logo.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485304743129171842" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 51);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Now that my summer is free from the stresses of seminary classes I am attempting to be more diligent in the area of blogging. I had planned to make a witty blog based on the World Cup, particularly the now famed use of the "vuvuzela". However, that post is being postponed due to some much richer information being provided by my good friend, Adam. He introduced me to a website: <span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 0);">www.thinkbigstuf.com</span>. This website is sweet. The brains behind the movement is <span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 0);">Lanny Donoho</span> (pictured above). I think that the light bulb located between his first and last name is more than appropriate. He has such an innovative mind for practical, impactful ministry.</span> </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Take the following video for example:<br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gvSh4ceDYq4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gvSh4ceDYq4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /><br />It's clear to see his heart for those less fortunate. But what's more is that he doesn't stop with just a strong sense of compassion, he follows up with a strong sense of activism. Let's face it, people's lives will not be changed if we only <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">feel</span></span> compassion towards. We must put those feelings into movement and be intentional about seeking the proper measures to engage their problems head on. Thanks Lanny for constantly pushing the limits and providing a worthwhile example. </span><br /></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-22259715167285262482010-05-24T11:09:00.001-05:002010-05-24T11:09:45.986-05:00Great Information from Fellow Pastorhttp://jedipastorken.blogspot.com/2010/05/when-days-end-in-why-meeting-man-named.htmlWilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-12619223891136098842010-03-26T06:35:00.004-05:002010-03-26T06:45:27.809-05:00The Central Theme<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPSTRBTQEK5D3qqoVTxj47hXouWFpsUl3ryQzLpnH6mFFp7s8Y9W7H4jlzx1t_40OOS07dTTCEg5ks8GScFO8hKpe8bstYzYkHf_MAoD_sr8_ra6qOCcLUhfD56MZbeYlFdf5pB04RTQ/s1600/Golgotha-Il_Pordenone-Cremona_Cathedral.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPSTRBTQEK5D3qqoVTxj47hXouWFpsUl3ryQzLpnH6mFFp7s8Y9W7H4jlzx1t_40OOS07dTTCEg5ks8GScFO8hKpe8bstYzYkHf_MAoD_sr8_ra6qOCcLUhfD56MZbeYlFdf5pB04RTQ/s320/Golgotha-Il_Pordenone-Cremona_Cathedral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452906063215657010" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 153);">Christ died on the Cross, in our place, as requested by the Father, setting us free from the eternal curse that we brought upon ourselves, as an expression of His love, then overcame death by raising Himself from the grave, conquering Satan and sin, proving His deity and holiness </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 255, 153);">so that we might believe</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 153);">. This must remain central in our hearts and cannot be forsaken or replaced with any other notion. Minimizing this truth is to mock the central theme of the gospel. </span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-84128038704167868642010-03-23T23:30:00.003-05:002010-03-23T23:44:47.467-05:00Back from Mission<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIkCP6FazDjKXx6TcAxbqISvmytx6IVkQPF4OmDhkn6tQyg7lx5oBEsaPykTou9TilP6GqftJY-X6fM20cTiNQTiZIVmUdIDwsV72o1ucrB5uOarnMQjekeBTz6qZVVVYD-8O2vaJFus/s1600-h/Family,Workers,Bathhouse.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIkCP6FazDjKXx6TcAxbqISvmytx6IVkQPF4OmDhkn6tQyg7lx5oBEsaPykTou9TilP6GqftJY-X6fM20cTiNQTiZIVmUdIDwsV72o1ucrB5uOarnMQjekeBTz6qZVVVYD-8O2vaJFus/s320/Family,Workers,Bathhouse.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452056599049417522" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 204);">I have been back from Mission, TX for a few days now and decided to make the time for a little update on our ventures. We were very blessed as a church to partake in the gospel in such a powerful way. Our church led numerous projects which provided platforms for us to share the gospel. These projects included women's spa days, pouring concrete, painting houses and churches, soccer clinics, vacation Bible schools, literacy drives, and block parties. I was privileged to join the construction crew and we were assigned the task of building bathhouses for two families. The families needing the bathrooms were otherwise bathing outside under a water house. One family had 3 kids and the other had 4. Needless to say they were in quite a desperate situation. The trip gave me the opportunity to reflect on the many blessings I have been given. One of the big questions I had ask myself was whether or not I would devote myself to God given the same circumstance. Do I serve Him because He has blessed me or do I serve because of who He is? I must be careful not to serve out of the abundance of blessing, for there in lies the trap and lie of prosperity gospel. What if the blessings stop coming from God? Does my loyalty to Him then cease as well? No. It must not. Then I only love God for His gifts and not His love. We all need to make sure that we are serving for the right reasons. How bitter would you be if you couldn't even afford a bathroom for your wife and 4 kids? </span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-74680057992680656832010-03-12T12:34:00.003-05:002010-03-12T12:42:42.561-05:00Mission 2 Mission<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfeoZzBuvfNGvgZPyQwu_12mEjZlS85Gd68FaRYxAxl4Ns0isN3AY8JxNNMupYJpg3qT6Vxiy72t0JVmkwim8l5x9heNN1T6vNXi2a15lGdGthWIsUTTQ9c3qDO8cOQum-rAxkzPvZBo/s1600-h/missiontomission.png"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfeoZzBuvfNGvgZPyQwu_12mEjZlS85Gd68FaRYxAxl4Ns0isN3AY8JxNNMupYJpg3qT6Vxiy72t0JVmkwim8l5x9heNN1T6vNXi2a15lGdGthWIsUTTQ9c3qDO8cOQum-rAxkzPvZBo/s320/missiontomission.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447804126705975986" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">I will be leaving with about 50 other people from our church bright and early in the morning headed for a town in south Texas called Mission. Ironically enough, we are calling this a mission trip. Mission to Mission. Yep, ironic. Last year's trip proved to be fruitful and eye-opening as I trust this year's experience will be much the same. It is a great privilege to be able to serve in this capacity and I am filled with mixed emotions. God will do great things through this little trip and I am thankful that He has made this possible. Be in prayer for the recipients of the gospel for they are a huge part of our motivation. Also, pray for our hearts to be aligned with God's Spirit in order that we would represent Him well.<br /></span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-3422577877155296512010-03-10T15:37:00.004-05:002010-03-10T22:49:20.330-05:00Project Rescue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUpQ0ue9v63_ejMLGiJv1tH32s_R9ILrd-CawfjDBt87NZppF3HWvguzt9ap6TzhMNpWLgz1jaMD5bG_40q23s1lACeInkqOuzKVV8TDje4Uh15Z0jBnNw8b6XSYeire5oKibNMxBUtg/s1600-h/splash_logo.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUpQ0ue9v63_ejMLGiJv1tH32s_R9ILrd-CawfjDBt87NZppF3HWvguzt9ap6TzhMNpWLgz1jaMD5bG_40q23s1lACeInkqOuzKVV8TDje4Uh15Z0jBnNw8b6XSYeire5oKibNMxBUtg/s320/splash_logo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447109310689993890" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">I have not made time for a post in a while, but this bit of information was too good to overlook. There are lots and lots of ways for us to spend our money, whether we invest in our 401k, go to a movie, or donate to charity. I recently came across what seems to be a very worthwhile charity, but don't take my word for it, check it out for yourself: <span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 102);">http://www.projectrescue.com/.</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 255, 153);">The organization strives to help the victims of sex trade. Their website is certainly worth a look. And while you're at it why not see what you can to do help? You just might help change a life. </span>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-21811443464240188922009-12-09T22:15:00.009-05:002010-03-10T22:51:43.885-05:00Lady GaGa, Sexuality, Christ...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw2u7j5NiIVBA-lZnvm98DHOlAAidQ2aBxSQfXgyYQXcpBAv6zOQ-FRm5fR2CllCpUmsO_VcNjIbyBDT9rwiBHfVpUZGBjNn_XKi-5aYKoSAoxX3QqTm4AVajVAM4NGbmtD1OGp1UM-E/s1600-h/men-and-women-symbols.jpg"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRqWQTQ5-h3-2y116zaWlv48ppNX3LN4CPhYtxyjsxji0Oc6wHAN9epLVkCHq_lRvy3PA3lLSX9WSaF-0GnJuciwLv2ZFkO2YVzQ1_E8B00-EFUcyPAKVaKp0rcyQqkqhRYo-tymgee8/s1600-h/lady-gaga-queen.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413441180336656226" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 300px; height: 300px;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRqWQTQ5-h3-2y116zaWlv48ppNX3LN4CPhYtxyjsxji0Oc6wHAN9epLVkCHq_lRvy3PA3lLSX9WSaF-0GnJuciwLv2ZFkO2YVzQ1_E8B00-EFUcyPAKVaKp0rcyQqkqhRYo-tymgee8/s320/lady-gaga-queen.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 255);">It's no secret that Lady GaGa has made it to the spotlight of our culture. Unfortunately, she's also made it to the spotlight in the eyes of kids and teens, too. Her tunes are edgy and her beats are catchy. She's actually not a bad performance artist. Like so many other "icons", though, she lacks in many areas. Because of her willingness to push so many limits in so many areas she has attracted the attention of so many people. Maybe its her willingness to wear scimpy outfits that attracts young men to her, or maybe it's her provocative song lyrics. Either way, she's won the idolization of testosterone pumping males thus beginning the domino effect. Girls treasure so much the way they are viewed by guys. When a guy adores a scandulous, provocative, bi-sexual pop star young women take notice. Could Lady GaGa's living example be considered trendy? Let's hope not. The last thing needed in this world is another person living completely contrary to God's word while simultaneously being exalted. Her 4 number-1 hits this year are a sad demonstration of the worship she's been granted - the same worship that should belong to Christ. I feel that sexuality and spirituality (particularly Christianity) are very closely linked. Consider sections of scripture like these: <span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);">1 Cor 6:18 "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body"</span> and<span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> Eph 5:3 "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality"</span>. The Bible indeed has much to say concerning <span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 255);">sexuality, much more than can be discussed in this discussion. It's sad and sometimes even sick to hear about the life styles lived by people like this. The message they preach is a message filled</span> with unholy principles that needs to be countered. It can be. Our job as Christians isn't condemning anyone whose life or words fail to honor God (mine doesn't always). Instead our job is to educate ourselves, with God's Word, and make ourselves aware of the Truth. We then need to exhaust ourselves with trying to live in that Truth. Of course we don't earn extra credit by living "right", we've already aced the exam through God's Grace. We strive to live Holy in order to honor God and exemplify His ways to everyone, especially those outside the faith. Christ gave Himself on the Cross for everyone, not just us "Christians".</span> <span style="color: rgb(204, 255, 255);">If we live loud enough and bold enough His message can overcome. </span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-23829021299966909422009-11-05T22:35:00.008-05:002009-11-05T23:23:08.406-05:00Be Holy, Because I Am Holy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XvXcBYuQcZsnE-OlAcTMVaVI2R8D5VPbwSOYD5ZPJWgme362uiPXd4mW7qTNtfugtCXViuBEtzKz_xo5Bj3uOMWv-LTsTGPlSPy5Vb26J93gN73OOhVzZbIMCCaB1DrKuiu2tq-1SWg/s1600-h/holiness.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 256px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400836299924047618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XvXcBYuQcZsnE-OlAcTMVaVI2R8D5VPbwSOYD5ZPJWgme362uiPXd4mW7qTNtfugtCXViuBEtzKz_xo5Bj3uOMWv-LTsTGPlSPy5Vb26J93gN73OOhVzZbIMCCaB1DrKuiu2tq-1SWg/s320/holiness.jpg" /></a><span style="color:#ff6666;"><strong><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">1 Peter 1:16</span> </strong>is such a small statement, but if I really accepted this statement for what it is, a command, then my life would look contrastingly different. Tonight in our guys campfire group we talked about how disturbingly easy it is to fool ourselves by living halfway in the light. We only expose the part of our lives that we are comfortable letting other people see. This message really hit me between the eyes! Last week the question of the night went something like, "If you knew that every minute of your life would be put on TV for the world to see what would you do different?" Again, the question found its mark directly in the center of my heart! I want badly to be holy, but I feel so very far from it! The awareness of shortcomings in life can sometimes leave me feeling discouraged, but I'm reminded that only through the power of Christ given to me through the Holy Spirit am able to live a life worthy of the calling of Christ. Consider this prayer from Augustine: </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"><strong>Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy. Amen.</strong><br /></span><br /><div><div><div><div><strong><em><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span></em></strong></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">Augustine realized, like we all must, that we are powerless on our own. We must acknowledge Him and His power! Too often I live oblivious to Him and do things on my own. This only leads to failure after failure. We must strive to mesh our lives with Him. <strong><span style="color:#cccccc;">John 15:5</span></strong> reminds us: "Apart from Me you can do <em>nothing</em>."<em> </em></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">Father, thank You for reminding me that I am nothing without you. Thank you for inspiring me through Your Word, my fellow brothers, and those who have preceeded me like Your servant Augustine. Empower me to live a life that reflects my adoption into Your family. Help me to live well. Strip away pride from my life that I would focus on Your plans, Your ways, and Your Love. Breathe in me, act in me, draw my heart, strengthen me, and guard me. Thank You for your neverending compassion and mercy. I love the way You show Your love to me. I love the way You love me. I love You. </span></div></div></div></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-89105258655341674652009-11-03T11:48:00.003-05:002009-11-03T12:00:53.587-05:00Creation VS Evolution: Awesome Video Online!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPJqegtWB42M2_cxroX_wS4eTey_sZY1T479Ceqsh_LKVnj0QpeqXvORKkB_rnaIUQ_aPaXL05yOICdnoJAApEFV5BxnCxLXJ1NwnNFg1r8KZ7qN4cl9MvqHl701i6pnN_DZDIxJzTIk/s1600-h/planet_cover.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 106px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399922903576571906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPJqegtWB42M2_cxroX_wS4eTey_sZY1T479Ceqsh_LKVnj0QpeqXvORKkB_rnaIUQ_aPaXL05yOICdnoJAApEFV5BxnCxLXJ1NwnNFg1r8KZ7qN4cl9MvqHl701i6pnN_DZDIxJzTIk/s200/planet_cover.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">The debate ensues: Creation, Evolution, Both? People arguing from opposite sides of the fence are educated and well prepared for debate so who do we believe? Do we accept the stance of Christianity blindly without "scientific" evidence or do we reason with logic that the scientific community, with all of its conclusions and evidence, must be right? It's a confusing topic that is long from being settled. In the meantime I suggest that you check out this incredible (and FREE!) video:</span> </div><div><br /><strong><span style="color:#3333ff;"><a href="http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5488284265590289530">http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5488284265590289530</a>#</span></strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#33ccff;">It's well worth the time you'll spend watching it as it provides a well-rounded view of the issues at hand from the world's leading experts on the topic. </span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-85814291451091630672009-11-02T14:25:00.009-05:002009-11-02T14:58:23.064-05:00Grace, The Gospel, and Luther<img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399595531303368434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhujX5rMfrCUUYqQgnanoXz47zkCSCGuKoVIxuY7m3le3u1a7SA-O1kAZCtI3zxgltalhYDjeTKMNIjYE7Y22misGKhEhI6EZvQt7GffOJMSlL4e-hyRiGhZFCEbYUL-br5jfvQLxdJYBM/s200/lutherrose.jpg" /><span style="color:#66ff99;">The Luther Rose. This symbol is commonly found in Lutheran churches. As I've been studying the life of Martin Luther and his contribution to the Church I was introduced to the symbolism behind this image. The Yellow Circle surrounding the blue represents the eternal life of all believers. The blue space was Luther's color for eternity spent in Heaven with The Christ. (Sidenote: Heaven is not so much a place but a reality that we will never be physically absent from the Christ). A Christian, because of their redemption, should live with eternal joy, thus the White Rose. The red Heart shows the new life that a person possesses through Christ. And last, but certainly not least, the black Cross. The Cross in the center, thus showing that is central to the faith. Apart from the Cross, everything else represented would not be possible. The new life, the joy, and eternity in Heaven are all dependent on the Cross. Why is it black? To represent the sin that Christ took upon himself to bring the world to the Father. Christ accepted the curse of the Cross as an eternal act of love for us. He did this so that we would become new, joyous creatures elated to live with Him forever. The centrality of the Gospel is Christ and His supreme act of grace demonstrated on the Cross.</span> <span style="color:#66ff99;">It is this same grace that restores all of us. I pray that I will daily live in the grace afforded me through the Cross.</span> <div></div><div></div><div></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-74561965429987976062009-10-29T12:06:00.004-05:002009-10-29T12:19:35.939-05:00Toilets and Blessings<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9ac9xhGrijQMqCkGkyiAr2rjKGdxtKubzePJIILU7JzWEUNBpJp58xjc5FP1L2EEgtc0Ai4wBxN6HwDDGxoGDl7v-0tOD87DjpRKfSAnYmXIrm9tl3nEHMWu-RxT00FIxnwiya4M9u8/s1600-h/toilet.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398069693501956034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9ac9xhGrijQMqCkGkyiAr2rjKGdxtKubzePJIILU7JzWEUNBpJp58xjc5FP1L2EEgtc0Ai4wBxN6HwDDGxoGDl7v-0tOD87DjpRKfSAnYmXIrm9tl3nEHMWu-RxT00FIxnwiya4M9u8/s200/toilet.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#ff6600;"><span style="color:#99ffff;">I just saw this picture on my twitter page from charitywater.org. This organization has a simple mission: give safe drinking water to people who need it. The caption that goes along with this picture says, "this toilet was used by slumdwellers in Monrovia, Liberia." It reminds me that I am blessed. I have never had to use a shack positioned on the edge of a pond to relieve myself. My gut says that if you're reading this from the convenience of your home, office, or school using your computer and high speed internet connection that you rarely, if ever, experience conditions like these. We are blessed. Spend time giving God credit for how incredible your life is.</span> </span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-12119610699611536132009-10-27T11:47:00.003-05:002009-10-27T12:02:01.061-05:00Reach<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl5ZUwI8kp9-6uL-gQRcKtOr169ma8NxOsoYGClvsc2s71psezSdSPnApbUASF9EpaEXdmczsTlF-WWIsSALvmIlHvmlBl2Gz3fR2jabprbjPGwvE3Nivrgkxfl3DHe7EbJ4LGORHr60/s1600-h/Grace%2520of%2520God.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397325988460143282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 152px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl5ZUwI8kp9-6uL-gQRcKtOr169ma8NxOsoYGClvsc2s71psezSdSPnApbUASF9EpaEXdmczsTlF-WWIsSALvmIlHvmlBl2Gz3fR2jabprbjPGwvE3Nivrgkxfl3DHe7EbJ4LGORHr60/s200/Grace%2520of%2520God.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify"><span style="color:#3366ff;">Today as I read Romans I was reminded how marvelous a thing it is to be found in God's grace. It's difficult (if not impossible) to comprehend how God can look upon us with favor, mercy, compassion, love. It is only by GRACE that we can call ourselves sons and daughters of the King. I am thankful that our Father saw fit to reach down into this world and into my life for I know that it is impossible for me to reach Him by any other means. I am thankful that through the Cross God reached to me, a depraved sinner, and saw fit to bring me into a right relationship with Himself. I am thankful that Christ, who was and is God, seeing my desperate need, reached out His arms and completely ended my cursed state. I am thankful that one day Christ will again reach out to me and call me home with Him. Thank You for reaching me.</span> </div><br /><div></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="center"></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-62406769338712997972009-10-26T16:04:00.005-05:002009-10-26T16:43:02.133-05:00Encouragement<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZQW5hizJ0RQanSp64Y5015dMPjkgRFIC-mGpYn620WwWjIijrB9S_WB7hVUONbr5sdquGrmARcY69cVNo0nWo12H6ezxBLq4sLNtBnJCnQTDSRCP6x3IfxSf5SxWgeXvIBT_dZavT9c/s1600-h/Holy+Spirit.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397022177439364434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 141px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZQW5hizJ0RQanSp64Y5015dMPjkgRFIC-mGpYn620WwWjIijrB9S_WB7hVUONbr5sdquGrmARcY69cVNo0nWo12H6ezxBLq4sLNtBnJCnQTDSRCP6x3IfxSf5SxWgeXvIBT_dZavT9c/s200/Holy+Spirit.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;">Personally, there's never enough encouragement. I can always use more, especially from the ones I respect and love. My world can completely change with genuine encouragement. I tend to be my biggest critic. It's commonplace for me to get down on myself and beat myself up over the little shortcomings in life. Often, after trying to live an upright standard of life on my own, I realize the futility of personal effort. While frustrating, this pushes me to the Cross. I must realize that only there will I find the power to be the man God has called me to be. That's good news. He's provided for me. Now if I would live in that realization and forsake living life of my own effort. What's more good news is that He is also an encourager:</span> <span style="color:#ff9966;">John 16:7 & 13 read, "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; bu if I go, I will send Him to you...He will guide you into all truth."</span><span style="color:#66cccc;"> I desperately need the Encourager and maybe you do, too. What would He say? How would He encourage? Maybe like this:<br /></span><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ff9966;"><em>Dear Servant,<br /><br />How are you? I can tell that you are frustrated from all of your up’s and down’s. I can see that you are disappointed with yourself and your inconsistency. Be encouraged. Not because it’s okay to be inconsistent, but because it’s all been handled. You’re trying too hard to do things on your own, can’t you see? This life wasn’t meant to be lived in solitude. You are not designed to fight your spiritual battles in isolation. You are designed to follow me. I will lead you, guide you, and show you the way. I am here to give you assistance every step of the way, not just when you think you need it. So please, stop living as though you don’t need me. Stop waking up every morning with a list of do’s and don’ts – life is more than that. I care more about your heart than your actions.<br /><br />I know it must be difficult to understand. You live in a culture that demands self improvement, self realization, and self centeredness. That’s all the work of the enemy. You must redevelop your entire thought-life in order to gain a better perspective on how to truly be successful. Success is not about triumph, it is about submitting yourself to Me. You need to understand that as long you are the focus of your decisions and actions you will continue staying stuck, or worse. Rather, turn your attention to Me and those around you. It is totally counter-cultural, which may be difficult, but we both know it is the only way.<br /><br />Will, stop worrying about who you are. You are mine and that is enough. I am not concerned about whether or not you make a name for yourself as a preacher or pastor. I prefer that you focus more on getting to know Me instead of telling others about Me.<br /><br />Rest assured that you will have trials in this life. You will experience difficult times and rough moments. Don’t loose it because that’s normal. I want more than anything for you to rely on Me to pull you through those brutally harsh experiences. You are prized in my eyes and I promise that I will screen everything that comes your way. If it’s too big for you to handle, I’ll handle it for you. You can trust me.<br /><br />When temptation raises its head and stares you down remember, I fought the same fight. I experienced the temptation to be lazy, have pride, and lust. I know that you sometimes think there’s no possible way to overcome those things in your life. There is. Or have you forgotten the Cross? Have you forgotten what was accomplished? I set you free to sin no more – live like you know that. I did not die for my sake, it was for you. Carve that into your heart and remember when you feel like giving in that I provided a means for you to honor Me.<br /><br />I am so happy that you are my son. I remember the party we had up here when the eyes of your heart were opened for the first time! Now, my son, take heart in me as your Father and give me more than you think I am capable of handling. I am always here and I will never forsake you.</em></span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-5508955231981507952009-09-30T15:23:00.006-05:002009-09-30T15:48:30.167-05:00My Own Screwtape Letter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7KACWnbAjt17Axwfj4sYWGH8_g2cIWnipOfegpp6165rBy-KEFY2V2R__ib33_39vbTMPK_ZWuSjrL2DuBZI7jAK_ENSPfUv9c0h1dvU9jv011WuQQOqD3DfBFyv7DRZgv5lJjaBWrs/s1600-h/the-screwtape-letters-csl.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387363885694789922" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 133px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7KACWnbAjt17Axwfj4sYWGH8_g2cIWnipOfegpp6165rBy-KEFY2V2R__ib33_39vbTMPK_ZWuSjrL2DuBZI7jAK_ENSPfUv9c0h1dvU9jv011WuQQOqD3DfBFyv7DRZgv5lJjaBWrs/s200/the-screwtape-letters-csl.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">Earlier this week I had the opportunity to write my own Screwtape Letter. If you are familiar with C.S. Lewis' work <em>The Screwtape Letters</em> then this will ring a bell with you:</span> </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#ff9966;">My Own Screwtape Letter<br /><br />My Dear Wormwood,<br />I commend you for your persistent efforts. Our fellow is showing signs of stubbornness to our attacks, but I trust that through continued pressure he will soon be upon the breaking point, making a decision that will cause shame and separation from his King. Keep in mind that you can not afford to be too aggressive in the measures you choose to take. Instead choose attacks of a more subtle, prolonged nature that will prove most beneficial for seasons to come. Of course, you should always be ready to charge without caution, having studied our victim knowing when he is most vulnerable. </span></em></div><em><span style="color:#ff9966;"><div><br />It appears that your increased work of complacency is providing adequate dividends. Our subject is most unaware of the dangers that accompany a tolerating attitude. Through my centuries of experience I have seen many extraordinary men and women crumble with decay as a result of their mediocrity. We know full well, dear Wormwood, their King desires for our patient to experience continued growth and renewal – we must not allow that to happen. Continue your work of whispering in his ear that he has achieved much in the spiritual realm, he will believe it. His satisfaction with current circumstances will allow us to usher in laziness and apathy. We may not possess much influence, if any, over one who is passionate, but much can be done in the life of the complacent. </div><div><br />Similarly, Wormwood, I approve of your crucial timing with the firing of our victim’s lust triggers. You are wise to note that in the company of others our person resists valiantly against our efforts to reacquaint him with his lustful passions. Fortunately for us, few of our Enemies followers truly believe in the power and strength they can harness through sincere fellowship. Therefore be encouraged to persevere in your efforts. When he is alone remind him of the pleasures he will experience through his fantasy world. Coax him down the long, lonely path of selfishness, pleasure, and pride. In the darkness of night he will be most susceptible to your schemes – turn your suggestive whispers to bold commands. You must show some resiliency here, Wormwood, for he will initially put up a bold fight for he knows firsthand how he should behave, but keep in mind the power of perseverance. The longer he is isolated the more prone he is cave in under the pressure. </div><div><br />Lastly, and perhaps of utmost importance when he caves be ready to suffocate with shame. Our fellow is highly prone to wallow in humiliation and guilt. How I desire for all stay in their cages of shame, for there they find no capacity for reconciliation. Howl over our patient and echo words of worthlessness. You know full well the magnitude such words can have over one who has reached their breaking point. Smother out any signs of confession or repentance – we have no hold over the reconciled. Fight with every ounce of energy to defeat our person with a feeling worthlessness. Above all he must never be reminded of the price that was paid for his life, for there he finds the power of humility and grace. </div><div><br />Your affectionate uncle<br />Screwtape</div><div></span></em></div> <div></div><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">I would encourage you to write your own version of a <em>Screwtape Letter</em>. It's an eye opening exercise that is designed to help you understand your personal struggles with obedience to Christ. Let me know how it goes!</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#ffcc00;">If you are interested in getting your own copy of <em>The Screwtape Letters</em> then check out this link:</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Screwtape-Letters-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652934">http://www.amazon.com/Screwtape-Letters-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652934</a></div><div></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-26398993332419368152009-05-13T14:55:00.006-05:002009-05-28T00:48:14.376-05:00Las Vegas<div><span style="color:#009900;">Earlier today my mom read this and sent it to me. I liked it and thought I would put it up here for everyone else. It's pretty thought provoking.</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"><strong><em></em></strong></span></div><div><span style="color:#339999;"><strong><em></em></strong></span></div><div><span style="color:#339999;"><strong><em>Splinters in the soul</em></strong><br />Remember the "What Happens Here Stays Here" Las Vegas campaign? You're going to be seeing a lot more of it in the near future, according to today's Wall Street Journal. The city has tried in recent years to lure you with promises of affordability in a recession, but no more. Now we're going to be told that we can "enjoy some forbidden fun, or indulge in extreme behavior like conspicuous consumption," according to the Journal.<br /><br />A few years ago, our family stayed a night in Las Vegas en route to a vacation in California. We'd never seen the city, and wondered what we'd missed. Turns out, Vegas isn't much interested in catering to a Baptist preacher. I don't know anything about "shooting craps" except that it doesn't sound like something they teach at the seminary. I was equally lost watching the other ways people lose money. For a neophyte like me, it was less fun than a monthly deacons' meeting (something I never thought I'd say).<br /><br />But I am interested in their old/new slogan. The city can promise that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but I'm doubtful. Unless they have invented a way to purge memory banks when we cross the city limits, I'm pretty sure they suffer from the law of unintended consequences like the rest of us.<br /><br />In Numbers 32, the people of Israel are preparing to cross the Jordan River and take their Promised Land, but some of them want to pitch tents and build cities where they are. Their warriors are willing to help the rest of the army conquer the land, but they intend to settle in their current circumstances. Moses gives them permission, so long as their men fight as promised. But if they don't, "you will be sinning against the Lord, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out" (v. 23). What he said to them, he said to us.<br /><br />I have learned the hard way that there is no such thing as secret sin. In four churches I served over 25 years as a pastor, I watched as friends struggled to make peace with their past. Private thoughts and personal transgressions are like splinters in the soul. We can ignore them for a while, but the longer they remain, the more they fester. One of my students at Southwestern Seminary nearly died from a blood infection resulting from an unattended wood splinter in his thumb. I've seen the same thing happen to marriages, families, and ministries. What happens where you are today, won't stay there.<br /><br />The good news is that our Father in heaven is ready to forgive all we confess and forget all he forgives (Jeremiah 31:34). Where has guilt found you today? Name that sin, repent of it, and ask God to forgive it. When guilt pushes on that splinter again, claim the fact that it is gone and God is gracious. Do this every time guilt returns, until it gives up and you are free. Why not start now?</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663366;"><span style="color:#009900;">This is taken directly from Dr. James Denison's </span><strong><em><span style="color:#009900;">GodIssues.org.</span> </em></strong></span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610429346800144120.post-81691920815253151642009-05-11T17:36:00.006-05:002009-06-08T21:50:08.569-05:00Off the Field Antics<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipy_RirIJFQn8WJNBmiueNoOV49ZzqNGn2wB2kVcxfMz__cisnhYR6995sXRe4R118S_aDLe8S3lATDJvHyquhCQoj6v0XX19w1T97Ugqqi1g9wm4jeq1mzSBU3CA9XySTAphdqgd1WGQ/s1600-h/ept_sports_mlb_experts-472535364-1242054527%5B2%5D.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334703397808355714" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipy_RirIJFQn8WJNBmiueNoOV49ZzqNGn2wB2kVcxfMz__cisnhYR6995sXRe4R118S_aDLe8S3lATDJvHyquhCQoj6v0XX19w1T97Ugqqi1g9wm4jeq1mzSBU3CA9XySTAphdqgd1WGQ/s200/ept_sports_mlb_experts-472535364-1242054527%5B2%5D.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;">The Dodgers and Giants are teams that don't like each other too much. This point was made rather boldly last night as Dodger Casey Blake thought it necessary to taunt his opposing pitcher, Brian Wilson. Why was this such a big deal? Well partly because this is the biggest Dodgers news since the Manny suspension, but also partly because the nerve that Blake struck with Wilson was deeply emotional.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;">Brian Wilson has performed a sign with his arms after finishing his work on the mound for a while now, so my sources say. This arm-crossing gesture is done as a tribute to his late father and as a sign of his faith. Well, last night after Casey Blake took one of Wilson's pitches past the outfield wall he also emulated Wilson's gesture - no doubt poking fun at him. Wilson, after the game, was upset and speechless. His emotions were running wild. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#66cccc;"><span style="color:#66cccc;">Is Wilson justified in being so upset? Is Blake really a bad guy after doing this? This makes me wonder how many times I get my feathers unnecessarily ruffled for a mindless joke. I question whether or not it does me any good to get all worked up over the times when other people don't take me seriously. Is it prideful of me to allow such obscure events to control my attitude and impact my response? I think I've got to overcome these little, obscure things and rise above it. Sure, some words and actions may hurt and sting to the core. But ultimately they should never get close to upsetting us. If this was the case then I think Christ would've had more to say when his accusers hit Him in the face, plucked out His beard, and spit in His eyes. He understood that His faith was far more important than their insensitive actions and, maybe, so should we.</span> </span></div>Wilbohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11628677244449995239noreply@blogger.com0