Whistling Past The Graveyard

From My Perspective - - -

Changing times require a change in thinking. When the financial “experts” state that this year the nation will add $1.5 trillion to the national debt that is already more than $14 trillion, one’s thinking needs to change – and – quickly. It is an impossible premise to think that an individual and/or a nation can continue to spend what one doesn’t have and where it is dubious at best to think that such enormous debt can ever be repaid or reduced. One of this nation’s founding fathers – Thomas Jefferson – wrote a letter to Nathaniel Macon in 1821 and stated: "There does not exist an engine so corruptive of the government and so demoralizing of the nation as a public debt. It will bring on us more ruin at home than all the enemies from abroad...I placed the economy among the first and most important virtues, and public debt as the greatest of dangers to be feared. To preserve our independence, we must not let our rulers load us with perpetual debt. If we run into such debts we must be taxed in our meat and drink in our necessities and in our comforts in our labor and in our amusements. If we can prevent the government from wasting the labor of the people, under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy."

Much earlier than Thomas Jefferson, a philosopher who's full name was Marcus Tullius Cicero wrote in 55 BC, "The budget should be balanced, the treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of official government should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt. People must again learn to work, instead of living on public assistance."  Obviously, if “Rome” was removed from that statement and the “United States of America” was inserted, the same truism and reality could be said of us today that was said of Rome in 55 BC. What is true of Public Debt is equally true of Personal Debt. The average debt of individuals in this nation is appalling. Someone has wisely observed, “Sometimes when you whistle past too many graveyards you end up being buried in one of them.”

An underlying issue for the nation is that too many money managers are more willing to wager on failure than they are on success. Just as a case in point, The Wall Street Journal for January 28, 2011 comments in an article headlined: Report Details Wall Street Crisis in which they observed, “In an interview with the commission, former Deutsche Bank AG trader Greg Lippmann—who played a key role in facilitating short bets—told the commission that in 2006 and 2007 he handled trades for at least 50 hedge funds and ‘maybe as many as 100’ betting that mortgage-backed securities would fall.”  Predicting and Capitalizing on failure is difficult to comprehend and digest. It appears as though the financial gurus of this nation have allowed for a deterioration to a point where too many sense the need for greed.

John MacArthur in an online Bible Study on Expensive Blessings makes this observation: “Rich or poor…the Bible warns against the deceitfulness of riches – Mark 4:19,  and exhorts: Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings like an eagle that flies toward the heavens – Proverbs 23:4-5. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus declared, You cannot serve God and wealth, while in Luke 12:15 He warned: Beware and be on your guard against every form of greed.” The word “Money” in the KJV was translated “Mammon.” In The Word Origin and History, Mammon is stated to be “personification of wealth.” Many religious organizations teach the Wealth and Health potential – if only, one sends $1,000.00 as seed money – a sign of your faith, etc. For many, it is appealing – but – is it accurate? Jesus allows it is fraudulent. Why? Because one is to look to Him alone – not to seed appealers or receivers.  The secret of reaping is one’s diligence in sowing – not to man but to God!  Consider these things with me!

Sputtering Sputnik

From My Perspective - - -

It was reminiscent of an old Western on the radio – returning to the days of yesteryear. One could meet all kinds of people in yesteryear – Hopalong Cassidy; The Lone Ranger; Gene Autrey and Roy Rogers, etc. It was an innocent and fun time as the imagination could project one back in time to those “good old days” of yesteryear.

In the State of the Union Address to Congress on January 25, 2011, President Obama raised a point regarding yesteryear – referring back to October 4, 1957, when he said – “Half a century ago, when the Soviets beat us into space with the launch of a satellite called Sputnik, we had no idea how we would beat them to the moon. The science wasn’t even there yet. NASA didn’t exist. But after investing in better research and education, we didn’t just surpass the Soviets; we unleashed a wave of innovation that created new industries and millions of new jobs. This is our generation’s Sputnik moment. Two years ago, I said that we needed to reach a level of research and development we haven’t seen since the height of the Space Race…” Sputnik stayed in orbit until January 4, 1958. As it reentered the earth’s atmosphere, it burned up – but the space race had begun. Now there is a cooperative effort with the orbiting space station manned by both American Astronauts and Russian Cosmonauts.

President Obama went on to make another dramatic reference that was intended to challenge and motivate when he said: “The future is ours to win. But to get there, we can’t just stand still. As Robert Kennedy told us, ‘The future is not a gift. It is an achievement.’ Sustaining the American Dream has never been about standing pat. It has required each generation to sacrifice, and struggle, and meet the demands of a new age. And now it’s our turn. We know what it takes to compete for the jobs and industries of our time. We need to out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world. We have to make America the best place on Earth to do business. We need to take responsibility for our deficit and reform our government. That’s how our people will prosper. That’s how we’ll win the future…”

Speeches are one thing – action is another. All the rhetoric in the world will not lower the $14 trillion national debt, nor will it return 9.4% of the unemployed to gainful employment. It’s one thing to say in a national address: “It has required each generation to sacrifice, and struggle, and meet the demands of a new age. And now it’s our turn.”, but it’s another to lead the way with a plan and action that demonstrates sacrifice. The President could’ve references sacrifice in terms of the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence. They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured. Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War. Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton…These were not wild-eyed, rabble-rousing ruffians. They were soft-spoken men of means and education. They had security, but they valued liberty more.

Jesus states the cost of discipleship in Luke 14:26, 27, 33. One must be willing to let go of everything that is precious and of value – family, possessions, his own life – to follow Jesus Christ and to readily claim identity with The Cross – Luke 14:27, “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” Sputnik illustrated what could be done and spurred a generation to enter the space adventure. We need illustrations and examples of those who paved the way to a life of discipleship. Will you be one of the examples?  Consider these things with me!

Voids And Vacuums

From My Perspective - - -

The manner in which one would describe his world in general and his own life in particular could be summarized with one word – tension. An apt definition and summary for tension is: “the state of being stretched or strained; mental or emotional strain; intense, suppressed suspense, anxiety, or excitement; a strained relationship between individuals, groups, nations…” In some instances, “tension” is both desired and acceptable. Something, or someone, must have the ability and desire to “stretch” without snapping. In human relationships, it is desirable to have those who are able to endure stress and tension without a result snapping and breaking. In Leadership, it is preferable to have those who can maintain a tranquil spirit rather than one who displays erratic behavior. In any learning curve, the quest should be to find those with abilities and skills, as well as those who are striving after and living up to their potential.

When one is in College or Graduate School, “grades” are important. All are striving for excellence and acceptance. If one received a “C” for course work done, while that was a passing grade in most situations, it was also an indication that one was not living up to his/her potential. A good and caring Advisor would (or should) encourage the student to work harder; research longer; and develop the skill to assimilate what one is learning and to have the ability to communicate what has been learned in a discernable and understandable way.  This is foundational for anyone who aspires to make a contribution to the culture and society in which one resides and where one should have an impact. It is applicable also for those who will attain and assume Leadership positions. While a “C” is a get-by grade, it is not the grade with which one should become accustomed or content. However, when it come to Leadership, a “C” classification would be a mark of excellence. 

If one is to be a successful in Leadership, there must be a demonstrated attainment of nothing less than a “C” level. There should be, at a minimum, the following: (1) Competence – the person is able to do the task well; (2) Character – the possession of traits and qualities that allows one to model integrity and authenticity; (3) Commitment – one who is focused and who will carry out to completion the task that needs to be done; and (4) Consistency – one with predictable behavior and work ethic; a person free of peaks and valleys in personality issues and task performance.  This is the only way to be free of the Voids and Vacuums – marked by nothingness - that so often occur. The whole idea of being suspended or floating in nothing is sad and deplorable. One needs to avoid the voids and vacate the vacuums.

The Book of Hebrews covers several important areas of/for life. There are Warnings as well as Calls to Commitment (one would do well to search out the “let us” commitment passages – start with Hebrews 10 and 12).  In Hebrews 2:1-3 is the first of several warnings recorded in the entire book. This passage is addressing – The Danger Of Drifting. Note the words: “…we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?” The picture is clear – drifting away from what we have heard and been called upon to be and do.  One could think of a ship that has been loosed from its moorings during a storm and has become a vessel drifting aimlessly and precariously. The Sons of the Pioneers popularized the song of life from a cowboy’s perspective in their song, Tumbling Tumbleweeds: “See them tumbling down, Pledging their love to the ground, Lonely but free I'll be found - Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds. Cares of the past are behind, Nowhere to go but I'll find, Just where the trail will wind, Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds.” This is life being lived in the Void and Vacuum – aimless, directionless, purposeless. Don’t let that happen to you. Be diligent and a person of purpose. Set Goals and – by God’s Grace - Achieve your Potential. Consider these things with me!

Content Of Character

From My Perspective - - -

From time to time, we read and hear different comments about civil discourse. The obvious is that we need to learn more about how to appreciate one another, as well as how to practice civility while speaking to or about one another. Role Models are hard to find in this regard. The most public people are either performers or politicians. There’s a good chance that what one may hear all too frequently borders either on the profane or that which is purely partisan. Many times one could easily turn off the sound of news interviews and not miss anything at all – what is being said is both predictable and repetitious. It’s easy to conclude that “talking-points” and “spin” are what the public will be subjected to in the present and foreseeable future.

A phrase that is often repeated while being often neglected is the impassioned thought shared  by Martin Luther King, when he said: “I have a dream that my…children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” It is the phrase – “content of their character” – that has somehow been buried in the rubble of the current dialogue and diatribe. The term “racism” is thrown around in situations where it is unfounded and unnecessary. The “content of their character” has been blurred by political ambitions and compromises. It becomes more and more apparent – as our nation spirals downward toward bankruptcy – that part of the trend to bankruptcy is attributable to losing our way with regard to “the content of their character” as a requirement and standard for thought and interaction.

What exactly is “character”? The most definitive idea is: “the combination of traits and qualities distinguishing the individual nature of a person or thing.” If one consults Dictionary.com, one will find there is a list of ten dictionary results and twenty-seven definitive statements regarding “character.” We’ll be content with the idea of “traits and qualities.” A definition for “trait” is: “a distinguishing characteristic.” Two of the more cherished traits in  life should be (a) Integrity – one is committed to honesty in all aspects of life, and (b) Credibility – whether or not one is seen as being authentic, believable, dependable and uncompromising. Both Integrity and Credibility must be guarded and championed. No one should allow for any question to arise whether or not one is “real” and can be trusted implicitly (absolute and unreserved; unquestioning).

When it comes to Christian Character, the definitive statements are several and abundantly clear. One passage is II Peter 1:3-8, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue… knowledge… self-control… steadfastness… godliness… brotherly affection…love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  The Message translates verse 8: “With these qualities active and growing in your lives, no grass will grow under your feet, no day will pass without its reward as you mature in your experience of our Master Jesus.” This is a starting point for what will cause one’s life to be seen as being real, effective, and fruitful. It will set one apart as having authenticity, integrity and credibility. The content of one’s character will begin to gain in stature and maturity. One’s life will begin to exude the content of one’s character in an unscripted way – free from the emptiness and meaninglessness of words – while demonstrating the qualities that can only come from a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s as though Jesus was saying to each one – Isaiah 30:21 - “This is the way, walk in it…”  Consider these things with me!

Hanging On Every Word

From My Perspective - - -

What have we become in this country? Have we become victims of our own vocabulary and grammar? Are we slaves to nuances and idioms, inflections and tone of voice? In the past couple of days, two illustrations have arisen regarding words spoken. The first is in a You Tube remark made by Sarah Palin where she employed a historic term “blood libel” in her statement. The second is in the Memorial Service address made by the President last evening and a news headline reads: “Obama Speech Undercuts Federal Charge For Judge's Murder.”

The term – Blood Libel – refers to “…a false claim or accusation that religious minorities (almost always Jews) murder children – especially Christian children – to use their blood in certain aspects of their religious rituals and holidays. Historically, Blood Libel claims have often been made to account for otherwise unexplained deaths of children…” (See: Wikipedia). The emphasis intended was on “false accusation”! However, the media seized on that phrase as being offensive  and contributing to anti-Semitism.  In the case of President Obama, in reference to U.S. District Judge John Roll, he used the phrase: “He was on his way back from attending mass, as he did every day, when he decided to stop by and say, Hi, to his representative." At issue is whether or not Judge Roll stopped by on a social visit or a business one.

It’s strange how murder can be nuanced in terms of a social visit or a business visit. The article continues its report: “In the complaint supporting Loughner's arrest, federal prosecutors argue that Roll wasn't simply seeking to pay a social call on Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Arizona) when he showed up at the community outreach event where the shooting spree took place Saturday. Prosecutors and the FBI insist that Roll was engaged in official duties because he wanted to talk to Giffords and her staffers about problems with a surging caseload in federal courts in Arizona, particularly along the Mexican border. Loughner's alleged killing of Roll may only be a crime under Federal Law if Judge Roll was on business rather than just stopping by to say 'Hi' to a friend. The death penalty is likely available to the feds anyway, because of the death of Giffords' aide Gabriel Zimmerman. However, multiple murders are an additional aggravating factor that could lead to the death penalty under federal law, as is the killing of a federal judge when carrying out his official duties.” It allows one insight when an argument can be made in terms of what “is” – is!

What about the use of words and their intended meaning? Must they always be construed in terms of their most negative and adverse meaning? Has our nation become illiterate or so totally lazy and/or ignorant that consulting a dictionary is too great of a chore? What about a long held tool to inquire about what was in the author’s mind or speaker’s intent when certain words were used? Is context totally ignored so a particular bias can be championed or a political position taken? One is instructed and cautioned in Scripture regarding the use of words: Ecclesiastes 10:12-14, “Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips. At the beginning his words are folly; at the end they are wicked madness - and the fool multiplies words…” There is an interesting application for the one who has made a pledge, such as being a co-signer on a note owed, in Proverbs 6:2-4, “if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this - to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands: Go and…press your plea with your neighbor!”  One area where there should be constant concern arise from the words of Jesus – Matthew 12:36-37, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless (idle) word they have spoken.For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." This needs to have Alert Status for all who engage in verbal exchanges and reporting of events. While our words should be few, the reception and interpretation of them should be fair and accurate. Consider these things with me!

Colloquial Correctness

From My Perspective - - -

We have been inundated with verbiage regarding Political Correctness. After the tragedy in Arizona this past weekend, we have moved into the arena of Colloquial Correctness. Colloquial means: language that is “characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary or familiar conversation rather than formal speech or writing; informal.” It can involve figures of speech or time-worn references. We use these expressions sub-consciously all the time. If someone is admiring an item they deem as a beautiful work, some one might say: “it’s all in the eye of the beholder.” When it comes to rhetoric, that colloquialism might be: “it’s all in the ear of the listener.”

Why is this being discussed in a Blog? It is based on a News Conference statement made by Pima County, Ariz., Sheriff Clarence Dupnik. He offered his opinion regarding why a 22-year-old would be driven to violence and shoot a Congresswoman and others in the group with her. He said: “I think the vitriolic rhetoric that we hear day in and day out from people in the radio business and some people in the TV business and what (we) see on TV and how our youngsters are being raised, that this has not become the nice United States of America that most of us grew up in…" On Sunday, he didn't back down. "I think we're the tombstone of the United States of America," he said of The Granite State, which a day earlier he called the “Mecca” of hatred and bigotry. "To try to inflame the public on a daily basis 24 hours a day, seven days a week has impact on people, especially who are unbalanced personalities to begin with."

Some Democrats jump at the opportunity to “spin” this event to their political advantage. Their comments were: “The sheriff out there in Tucson, I think he's got it right," Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., the assistant minority whip, told "Fox News Sunday." "Words do have consequences…this is nothing new. I've been saying this for a long time now." "I think the sheriff was right," added Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md., who appeared on CBS' "Face the Nation." "Bob, when you and I grew up, we grew up listening to essentially three major news outlets: NBC, ABC, and CBS. We listened to people like Walter Cronkite and Eric Sevareid, and Huntley-Brinkley, and they saw their job as to inform us of the facts and we would make a conclusion...Far too many broadcasts now and so many outlets have the intent of inciting…people to opposition, to anger, to thinking the other side is less than moral…” Many are/were all-too-quick to imply that Sarah Palin may cause such behavior because of her colloquialism: “Don’t Retreat – Reload.” Also,  the fact of her Political Pac group that listed some who should not be re-elected by putting a Cross-Hair symbol on a political district or Office-holder.

We forget that some of the Colloquialisms we use in everyday language, have Biblical origin:

"Rise and shine" comes from Isaiah 60:1 "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you."

"Tearing your hair out" comes from Ezra 9:3 "This news made me so angry that I ripped my clothes and tore hair from my head and beard."

"Nothing new under the sun" comes from Ecclesiastes 1:9  "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.”

"Reap what you sow" comes from Galatians 6:7  "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."

"Handwriting on the wall" comes from Daniel 5:5  "In the same hour came forth the fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace..."

These statements have crept into our language use and we never give a second thought to them in terms of their origin. Don’t let the opinionated inhibit you. Consider these things with me!

Becoming An Afterthought

From My Perspective - - -

Most people are aware of the cycle of life – you’re born, nurtured, educated, seek a career, seek out a spouse, have a family, see the children marry and begin their family, arrive at a point in life all too quickly when people think one should retire from his/her work skill or where others make it impossible for one to continue in his/her life’s ambition, and essentially turn one out to pasture (or put one into a Nursing Care facility, and – all too soon – seldom think of that person. That seems so bleak and negative – but for an aging population it is all too true. I know of School Teachers, Missionaries, Higher Education Professors, Pastors – while perhaps no longer able to ambulate as rapidly as they once did – continue to have the capacity to share their skills and knowledge and expertise with the contemporary generation. However, they become part of a fading memory, strongly urged to retire, and having to force their way to be heard and allowed to continue to participate somewhere. Don’t let those you know become an afterthought with you!

When the debates occurred and continue regarding a National Health Care Law, discussion keeps including thoughts and suspicions about “death panels” and whether or not that will lead to more severe issues such as “euthanasia”! This had become part of the discussion and theory years ago during the Abortion issue. The argument went something like this: “If one allows for the ‘murder’ of a fetus in the womb - Abortion, what will prevent using medical means to usher the elderly into the tomb – Euthanasia.” The recent discussions on Health Care in this country allows that the elderly are the cause of huge expenditures just to keep them functional for a very few years in the limited future. Life Expectancy – who should determine it? It caused me to think about a statement Coach Nick Saban, head football coach of the University of Alabama is quoted as having said yesterday when he learned three of his star players are entering the NFL Draft and will not be returning to play next season or to complete their college studies: “If they're fortunate enough to play until they're 30 years old, they'll still have 50 more years to live.” His comments indicate his view of life expectancy being 80 years of age.

In terms of becoming an afterthought, I mused about how punctuation and grammatical markings might feel if they were somehow personified. If this was possible, would you wonder how an asterisk might feel – relegated to a brief footnote or passing reference? What if you were and ellipsis – words being left out and/or not significant enough to be included in a sentence? What if you were a foundational principle and/or document – such as, The United States Constitution – and were ignored, how would you feel over time? What if those who framed the Constitution could address the current interpretations of it – what would they say? It is sad that with the passing of time and life, the “out of sight – out of mind” factor becomes an increasing reality.

A classic illustration of an afterthought situation is found in II Chronicles 18:6-7 after Jehoshaphat has agreed to join Ahab in a battle against Ramoth-Gilead: “But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here another prophet of the Lord of whom we may inquire? And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the Lord, Micaiah…; but I hate him, for he never prophesies good concerning me, but always evil." Micaiah will tell of a great defeat if this battle ensues. The “afterthought” now out of the way, Jehoshaphat and Ahab charge into battle. Jehoshaphat almost loses his life and Ahab does lose his. One of the greatest afterthoughts professing Christians often employ is Prayer. After committee meetings, and planning, and decisions are made – someone will suggest: “We ought to pray about this!” In many instances, it is doing the “religious” afterthought with a hope that God concurs with our wisdom and action. Bleak and Negative? Yes!  Actual? In too many instances – Yes!  Let those who are aging continue to do as much good as they can for as long as they can. Consider these things with me!

The First Week Of The Rest Of Your Year

From My Perspective - - -

The first week of 2011 is almost history. How did you do with your resolutions so far? Have you postponed some things until after the College Football Bowls are concluded? After all, attending or watching games requires Grazing Food and Snacks Galore, doesn’t it? What if ones thought or attitude is – things are getting pretty bad in our country – rising costs, uncertain future, inflated deficits, upheaval in the world, possibility of losing retirement savings – I may as well enjoy what I can while I can? Isn’t it understandable if one feels and acts that way?

In reading some Devotionals for the New Year (Day By Day – by - Chuck Swindoll), the following thoughts stood out to me and serve as a reminder for us all in terms of our perspective and cultural obligations. The first thought is:

“Our world has become a large, impersonal, busy institution. We are alienated from each other. Although crowded, we are lonely. Pushed together but uninvolved. No longer do most neighbors visit across the backyard fence. The well-manicured front lawn is the modern moat that keeps barbarians at bay. Hoarding and flaunting have replaced sharing and caring. It's like we are occupying common space but have no common interests…Painful though it may be for us to admit, we're losing touch with one another. The motivation to help, to encourage, to serve our fellow human beings is waning. People have even observed crimes in progress but refused to help so as not to be involved! Our foundational values are getting lost in these confusing days. And yet, it is these things that form the essentials of a happy and fulfilled life.” 

The second thought gleaned from Day By Day is equally significant and perhaps more personal: “Exactly what does our heavenly Father want to develop within us?

• "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Jesus came to serve and to give. It makes sense, then, to say that God desires the same for us. After bringing us into His family through faith in His Son, the Lord God sets His sights on building into us the same quality that made Jesus distinct from all others in His day. God is engaged in building into His people the same serving and giving qualities that characterize His Son. Nothing is more refreshing than a servant's heart and a giving spirit, especially when we see them displayed in a person many would tag as a celebrity…Colonel James B. Irwin, a former astronaut who was part of the Apollo 15 crew that had made the successful moon walk…spoke of the thrill connected with leaving this planet and seeing it shrink in size. He mentioned watching earthrise one day…and thinking how privileged he was to be a member of that unique crew. And then he began to realize en route back home that many would consider him a "superstar," an international celebrity. Humbled by the awesome goodness of God, Colonel Irwin shared his true feelings, which went something like this: As I was returning to earth, I realized that I was a servant—not a celebrity…”

I believe this what led Paul to write in Philippians 2:3-8, “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…who…made himself nothing - he humbled himself…” In Philippians 3:8-11, Paul shares: “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ…” Not a Celebrity – but – A Servant. What a great attitude! What a great potential! What a difference this will make with others and this culture! Consider these things with me!

Let The Games Begin

From My Perspective - - -

The United States Congress is back in Session today. For the House of Representatives, it means a new Leadership and suggested direction for the Nation. It will begin as few other Congresses have – with the reading of the United States Constitution. Next week, there is a planned and scheduled vote on the Repeal of the recently passed Health Care Reform Bill. In a day and hour when the National Debt has just rushed past the $14 Trillion level, the immediate attention is still not on the economy and jobs. After all, there are political games that have to be played – and -  the games have already begun. The Republicans know that the likelihood of Repeal is somewhere between zero and none. The sentiment may be that because of the Tea Party Influence they have to establish this as the priority. Meanwhile, the Democrats who know the same possible result use this as an opportunity to attack the Republican proposal without considering that it represents the view and desire of 60% of the electorate.

The “spin” of a Democratic leader sets the tone of the debate. A Drudge Report item presented the following: “New York Senator Chuck Schumer is pushing Republican members of Congress who oppose last year's health care legislation to decline health coverage for themselves and their families…Will Eric Cantor urge every Republican who is going to be for repeal to not take government health care themselves and to drop their existing health care?” Senator Schumer failed to mention that the electorate provides for his/their Health Care Coverage and Retirement package. By way of response, and in words that crystallize the issue, the report concludes, UPDATE: Cantor spokesman Brad Dayspring emails – “This shows a fundamental misunderstanding of health care in America, which isn’t shocking from people like Senator Schumer who are responsible for the Obama-Care disaster. But if Senator Schumer wants to operate in the world of the illogical, we assume that he, Leader Reid, and Rep. Pelosi will be giving up their own health care since it doesn’t include the public option. We also assume that all three will refuse to accept the extension of current tax rates and volunteer to pay higher taxes for the next two years.”

This type of debate and rhetoric obfuscates a lurking Government possibility, namely, the seizure of IRA, 401(k) and private pension accounts. If those billions of dollars are seized and added into Social Security Funds, how would you feel? What will happen to you and your future? Will you be able to survive? For those who are skeptical, countries in Europe have already taken these steps. In December 2010, Hungary seized private pension funds. An article in the Financial Times states: “Hungary’s parliament has voted to approve the effective seizure of assets held in mandatory private pension funds, a move that reverses a 1998 reform and has unsettled investors…” In Britain, The Telegraph posted a story in October 2008, stating: “Here is a warning to us all. The Argentine state is taking control of the country’s privately-managed pension funds in a drastic move to raise cash…” Then, this lurking question: “Who will be next? Pakistan, Ukraine, Hungary? Switzerland? Australia? Britain?” To that list should we add, the United States? The answer is Yes!

We need to weigh carefully what Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-24, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…You cannot serve God and money.” In Matthew 6:30-34, Jesus says: “O you of little faith…do not be anxious, saying, What shall we eat? or What shall we drink? or What shall we wear?...seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you…Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow…” While one should be prudent with money, spending and savings – one should not neglect faith in God and His promised care and provision for His own. Don’t fear! Have Faith!  Consider these things with me!

Resolution Or Revolution

From My Perspective - - -

A New Year has begun and many have made resolutions for the coming year. What did your list of Resolutions contain? How are you doing so far – keeping them all or promising yourself you’ll begin tomorrow for certain? That’s how it is with Resolutions – easy to make but difficult to begin and maintain. Resolution is more than a list of what one will or will not do. Resolution is much larger in terms of perspective and application. As the Congress of the United States convenes this week, some have been making bold Resolutions about what they will do and - if met with resistance – alternatives that will attain the goal. It will be fascinating and interesting to see how many of these Resolutions will gain traction, and how quickly they will be compromised.

In the world, most people would champion Peace as a worthy Resolution. Can that – will that – be followed through and be an accomplishment. Will Israel and the Palestinians get together and discuss what is in the best interests of all occupants in the Middle East? Will Iran lessen its rhetoric about and pursuit of Nuclear dominance in the Middle East? Will they silence their aspirations regarding Israel’s extinction? Will their be reasonable containment of North Korea? What about Afghanistan – how many more years should the United States pursue nation building in that difficult area? What about Egypt and the view and attitude toward the Coptic Church? Can there be Resolution in terms of any persecution against non-Islamic citizens of that nation? How can those whose objective is Revolution become convinced that Resolution should be the direction and action? How can a people be convinced to change the letter “V” (as in Re”V”olution) to become an “S” (as in Re”S”olution)? It seems so remote and almost impossible.

The culture of the United States has so little understanding about Persecution in the world. We seem so removed and remote to the ambitions of Dictators and other Despotic heads of State and people groups. The news contains stories about the bomb blast that killed 21 and wounded 27 Egyptians while they were attending a Coptic Church Service in Alexandria on New Year’s Day. What we haven’t been told so far is that the word "Coptic" was originally used to refer to Egyptians in general but it has undergone a semantic shift over the centuries to mean more specifically Egyptian Christians. This shift dates back to the time when Christians became an Egyptian minority, after the Muslim Conquest of Egypt in the 7th Century, Copts in Egypt constitute the largest Christian community in the Middle East, as well as the largest religious minority in the region - 10% or less of a population of over 83 million Egyptians. This event occurred at the outset of an important part of Coptic Worship and Ritual, as they approach the day for the Coptic Celebration of Christmas. As an aftermath, it is now reported that Security will also to be beefed up at churches for Coptic Christmas which Copts celebrate on January 7.

A man was called upon to Pray for the Persecuted Church during a Worship Service. He openly prayed that he had no knowledge of what was going on in the world. It might have been wise if the Minister had read a passage of Scripture prior to the Prayer, namely, Matthew 5:10-12, Where Jesus stated in the Beatitudes – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” We have been instructed about Persecution – we just don’t grasp the reality of it – yet! The New Living Translation is – “God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.” As you remember that the ancient Prophets were persecuted, remember that modern day people are also being persecuted because of their belief system and different objective of their faith. The question is: Are YOU prepared to suffer today for righteousness’ sake? Answer Carefully – it could be closer than you think!  Consider these things with me!

From Festiveness To Focus

From My Perspective - - -

There were celebrations around the world to welcome in another New Year. There is always the hope that the New Year will offer hopes and possibilities that will be an improvement over the previous year. When I was a child, churches would gather for Watch Night Services. At the Midnight hour, there would be a time for prayer and a recommitment of life. Sometimes there would be a Communion Service. The idea was to seek the Lord and His direction and blessing for the New Year. Now, the occasions are more festive and oriented to a party that includes fireworks displays, etc.

There are those who remind the nation and world that Festiveness must give way to the reality of Focus for the New Year. A Foreign Policy Paper for the year 2011 begins with this headline summary: “Next Year's Wars - The 16 brewing conflicts to watch for in 2011.” The list contains the names of countries that are familiar and some that are not. The following is their summary: (1)  Côte d'Ivoire   -  Côte d'Ivoire is on the brink of what may be a very bad 2011. After a five-year delay, Côte d'Ivoire held presidential elections on Oct. 31. A peaceful first round of voting was commended by the international community, but the runoff between incumbent Laurent Gbagbo and former Prime Minister Alassane Ouattara was marred by clashes and allegations of fraud on both sides.  (2)  Colombia  -  Despite a series of strategic losses in recent years -- from territory to key leadership -- the country's leftist guerrillas, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), still maintain about 8,000 armed troops and perhaps twice that number of supporters. The rebels killed some 30 police in the weeks after Santos's inauguration, clearly to make a point. Meanwhile, new illegal armed groups have sprung up to capture the drug trafficking market, their ranks filled with former paramilitary fighters. These gangs are largely responsible for the rising incidence of urban violence; homicide rates have gone up by over 100 percent in Colombia's second city, Medellín, last year.  (3) Zimbabwe  -  Keep an eye on Zimbabwe in 2011 as the country's "unity" government -- joining longtime President Robert Mugabe with opposition leader Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai -- will warrant its conciliatory name less and less by the day. The flashpoint next year? Elections. Both men want to hold them -- but they don't agree about what Zimbabweans should be voting on. (4) Iraq  -  The new government, formed in December after nine months of wrangling, is weak and lacks the institutions to rule effectively. Iraq's bureaucracies are nascent and fragile, and its security forces remain heavily dependent on U.S. training as well as logistics and intelligence support. Meanwhile, grievances abound -- from minority groups to repatriated refugees -- and it is unlikely that the state will be able to appease these many political demands. Sectarian violence resurfaces in fits and spurts, and is far from quashed entirely; approximately 300 Iraqis died in violence in November. The other countries mentioned and listed are: Venezuela, Sudan, Mexico, Guatemala, Haiti, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Somalia, Lebanon, Nigeria, Guinea, Democratic Republic of the Congo, All of them have internal frictions and issues that cause them to be considered as being volatile. The United States is no longer in a position where it can send troops, military arms and finances to try and quell the unrest and potential political upheaval. 

If Jesus was physically present and ministering in the world today, we might hear Him say – by way of reminder – Matthew 24:3-10 – “…Jesus answered them, See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, I amthe Christ, and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for thismust take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will befamines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, andyou will be hated by all nations for my name's sake. And then many will fall away andbetray one another and hate one another…” If one takes an intelligent look at our world today, it will reveal we are very close to this description now. The Foreign Policy Report and Paper makes it sound like it could be more immediate than not. Don’t let Festiveness blind your eyes to the needed Focus. The time is short. The need is to be ready! Consider these things with me!