Contending For The Faith Once Given

Maundy Thursday 2011

2011-04-21T23:18:00.006-05:00

This day Maundy Thursday, as we know, commemorates Christ’s Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist. But I don’t want to talk about the institution of the Eucharist. There is something else I wish to briefly share with you. Something has been prying on my mind. It’s only one little word but it affects all of us to some degree. And that word is loneliness.
You see, this night has always been most sobering for me and while reflecting about the events of this night, I am thinking about loneliness.

Is it not reasonable to imagine that all of us at one time have experienced loneliness to some degree? Many of us know all too well the loneliness experienced by the death of a loved one. Also, some of us know the loneliness of sitting alone in the doctor’s office waiting for test results and to be examined. There is loneliness experienced when it is time for children to leave home and live on their own. There is loneliness when a spouse travels to Florida to visit her mom. Yes, we all have our own experience of loneliness.

However, this night should we not be thinking about the kind of loneliness our Lord Jesus experienced on our behalf? Jesus endured a type of loneliness that none of us will ever have to experience. It was experienced in the Garden of Gethsemani, as Jesus was let down by his Apostles when He comes to them from praying and finds them asleep. His loneliness was that of total abandonment. No one cared. No one cared that the weight of the sins of the entire world were upon his shoulders. No one noticed his suffering and anxiety. There was not one person, no not one in the whole world, who shared in and comforted Jesus in his loneliness.

In just a few minutes we will listen closely to Father David as he reads Psalm 69. From the very beginning Psalm 69 has been interpreted in the context as a prayer of the Lord’s suffering and death. “Save me, O Lord, for the waters are come in, even unto my soul.” When the waters of affliction come in to our soul, not only do they threaten our life, but they disquiet our mind and fill our heads with confusion and loneliness. Our hearts become so heavy laden with so much sorrow that we cannot enjoy the very blessings, which God gives to us each and every day.

The suffering and loneliness of Jesus is vividly expressed several times in Psalm 69. When he prays Jesus becomes hoarse. His throat simply becomes as dry as sawdust. But He continues to pray even more fervently so that his sweat became like large drops of blood falling down upon the ground. They that hate Him are more than the hairs on His head. He is a stranger to his brethren, and a stranger to his mother’s children. They that sit at the gate hate him. And the drunkards mock Him. Jesus is totally abandoned and he cries out, “Hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble; hear me speedily.”

We also know that this night, before his arrest, being abandoned and alone in the Garden, Jesus sought out in vain the companionship of his closest friends. “What, could you not watch with me one hour?” Psalm 69 speaks of this loneliness as well. “Reproach hath broken my heart, I am full of heaviness. I looked for some to share my sorrow, but there was no man, neither found I any to comfort me.” This is loneliness.

St. John tells us that Jesus came unto His own, and His own received him not. This is loneliness.

And while on the cross, Jesus cries out, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

Jesus knows loneliness. He experienced it all, like no other ever will. Jesus said that no man takes the Lord’s life from Him, for He has power to lay it down, and to take it up again. And as Hebrews says, this was the Christ, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame.
This is also the Christ who knows your loneliness as well. He truly knows. Jesus will comfort, and protect, and will not abandon those whom God has given Him. Therefore, as children of God, let not your hearts be troubled. Soon we will celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. But for tonight, on this most solemn night ever recorded in human history, let us be ever mindful of the suffering and loneliness, which Jesus endured for our benefit, by humbly declaring, “Yes Lord, we shall watch with thee for one hour.”
Da Deacon - Trinity Anglican Church - Evansville, IN - April 21, 2011

Ash Wednesday 2011

2011-03-08T22:10:00.007-06:00

In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

The words of Genesis 3:19 are indeed sobering when we hear them read. However, this year when I hear these words not only are they sobering to me personally, but they penetrate my inner core.

Like many of you I have experienced death among those closest to me within my family. Authorities discovered that my brother died peacefully in his sleep on November 25, which this year was Thanksgiving Day. Shortly thereafter, I was called on December 9th to my father’s bedside when he had fallen at home resulting in severe brain trauma. He peacefully succumbed to his injuries on December 10th. My brother has died, my dad has died, and now the Church brings me to Ash Wednesday, a time of penitence and for me remembrance.

Shortly we will gather this evening to have ashes imposed on our foreheads; reminding us of our own mortality. Each passing year, and now, for some of us who have experienced the death of some of our family members, continues to affirm the reality of our own mortality and that we are truly but dust.

Tonight we begin a season of penitence, which leads ultimately to the celebration of Easter. We should remember this day that this is not a day of sadness. It should never be understood as a season that is morose; for it ends in Easter and the everlasting joy it brings to Christians. Rather the Church would have us be the realist that she is. The Church reminds us of that mortality and the fact, the simple fact, that we are sinners; that we stand in need of the mercy of God; that without the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross there is no salvation or, as last Sunday’s Collect said, “We are counted as dead.”

Our greatest problem we face as human beings is not mortality but our sin. Almost the root of every sin that we come before God to confess is that one little letter, I. “I have followed to much the devices and desires of my own heart. I have offended against thy holy laws. I have left undone those things, which I ought not to have done; And I have done those things which I ought not to have done. And there is no saving health in me.”

So what can Jesus do about that? Well, in a few minutes He will use the hands of his priest to trace a big letter "I" on your forehead and then making a horizontal line he will cross it. The cross of Jesus is the ultimate prescription for the saving health of our souls. It is by His cross that we are saved.

The prophet Joel proclaims that the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me all your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, mourning. Let your remorse tear at your hearts and not your garments.” Jesus then clarifies how we are to fast and pray when He says, “Don’t be like hypocrites with a sad countenance; they disfigure their faces that they may appear unto men to fast…” Even though we will shortly be looking at each other with ashes imposed on our foreheads, Jesus is saying something quite different. Let what is happening here in this season be something that is within us and these temporary ashes are only temporary and a reminder that something is supposed to happen within our hearts. He tells us to wash our faces and then we would “not appear unto men to fast, but unto the Father which is in secret and thy Father which seeth it in secret shall reward thee openly.” What God sees within us and is hidden to everyone is a contrite heart.

As we begin this season of Lent with remorse for our sins, we can also be joyful when we reflect upon the fact that we do not have to languish in our sins. Instead we can seek the forgiveness of Jesus Christ and be washed in His blood so that we are clean before God. This is what the season is about. We do not abandon hope. The hope is a few days down the road on Easter Sunday, and really now that hope is always before us. We must keep our eyes fixed on the prize. We begin in this somber way but we end in Easter joy and it truly will be joyous if we understand that the “I” in sin has been crossed out and that we are to live in the light of Jesus’ grace, won for us by His suffering and death on the cross.

On a Mission From God

2011-01-24T13:27:00.008-06:00

Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail shall keep Father David nor Deacon Mike from their appointed rounds.” Yes, we were at it again, "On a Mission From God," visiting Christ Anglican Church, O'Fallon, IL. Thanks to the steady hand of Sabrina's driving and the watchful eye of Faith as copilot, we returned safely home. Hearing the Word preached and receiving Holy Communion turns any gloomy snowy day into a bright and beautiful day!

Advent....Happy New Year

2009-11-29T05:30:00.020-06:00

Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put upon us the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which thy Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious Majesty, to judge both the quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen. Book of Common Prayer, page 90.

Happy New Year!

It is Advent and we are beginning a new year in the Christian Church. The above prayer is especially important because it is the first prayer of the new Christian year. It is so important to devout Anglicans that it is required to be repeated for the whole of the Advent season until Christmas Eve. However, I hope that all people this Christmas season, regardless of denominational affiliation, will sincerely pause from their daily routine, the hustle and bustle of the season and earnestly reflect on the words used in this prayer and offered to Almighty God.

As we categorize our gift-giving to those who are under ten dollars and those who are over ten dollars, braving the crowds and traffic to visit the malls, and Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and Sears (which are advertising for those hard earned dollars touting the greatest savings possible), may I offer below some questions for your personal reflection of what should be really important in our lives? Maybe, just maybe we will remember and in all humility be thankful for the greatest gift ever given to mankind in the person of Jesus Christ. Thankfully, Almighty God didn't place mankind on his under ten dollars list. Indeed, the gift of Jesus Christ to the world is priceless!

The magnitude of God's greatest gift to mankind is not always fully appreciated and completely understood as to its significance to us whom God has created. And sadly this gift, which is the light of the world in Jesus Christ, will not be accepted by everyone among us with humbled hearts in thankfulness. Yes it appears from my perspective that not too many thank you notes are being sent to God.

So if you think it's probably time to write a thank you note to God, perhaps a good place to start is by reflecting on the words in the above prayer. Some suggestions are offered below:

1. How does God give us grace?

2. What is grace?

3. What are the works of darkness?

4. What is the amour of light?

5. So your life is mortal? Is there a cure?

6. Who is Jesus Christ that He would actually visit us?

7. How did Jesus Christ exhibit great humility?

8. What is meant by "the last day?"

9. Is Jesus Christ returning to earth a second time?

10. Judgement? Life immortal? What does that mean?

I sense that answers to the above questions are not necessarily discovered over a cup of coffee or in casual conversation. For some of us, such as yours truly, the answers do not always come quickly but requires a study of the Holy Scriptures. Opening our heart in contemplative prayer to the Holy Spirit assures us that we will be taught eternal truth and know the Grace of God. If there is trust in God, then there can be a renewal in our lives. A new beginning. That is the meaning of Advent. A new beginning. And with each passing Christmas, we Christians should look with great anticipation and hope of the second coming of Christ.

Come quickly Lord Jesus, come quickly.

Amen.

Ten Predictions

2009-11-17T23:28:00.012-06:00

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION:

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.

2. Prayer will still work.

3. The Holy Spirit will still move.

4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.

5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.

6. There will still be singing of praise to God.

7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.

8. There will still be room at the Cross.

9. Jesus will still love you.

10. Jesus will still save the lost.

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS STILL IN CONTROL?

The above post is from one of those emails that all of us receive, usually from friends, and with the words, “if you agree pass this along.” Well I usually don’t read them, unless they come from a certain person that I admire for her Christian values, and I seldom forward such emails. But this one speaks to me and I hope it does to you as well.

This email was sent during the summer of 2008 during the presidential race between Barak Obama and John McCain. I suggest that these predictions are still holding true even a year later after the election. In fact, I argue that if we substitute the word ‘election’ with other words one will see that these absolutes actually apply to every problem, or decision, or event affecting one’s life.

So here goes…How about these headlines as a suggestion?

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens to my employment.

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens to my FINANCES.

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens to my HEALTH.

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens to my RETIREMENT PLAN.

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens tomorrow

TEN (10) PREDICTIONS (ABSOLUTES) NO MATTEr what happens to my..........……………………….

Perhaps you can think of something in your own life that worries and distresses you over what the outcome may mean? For some it might be the loss of a dear friend, or spouse, or pet. For some it could be the loss of a business, (true) or even the loss of a Church building and family, (true), or the loss of suddenly not having children in our presence as they grow into adults, (true again) or the loss when someone dear to our heart moves away, (know that feeling all too well). Are you beginning to think of something in your life that really hurts? I bet there is more than one instance, right? You could refer to the list of absolutes for comfort. Personally, I take comfort in numbers 1, 2, 7, and 8. And by the way, each numbered sentence is a theme mentioned numerous times, from the beginning to the end, in the Bible.

And speaking of the Bible, I hope you will read The Gospel of Saint John, Chapter one, verse one through eighteen. I also strongly suggest the King James Version which I have posted below for convenience. Read it often and please reflect and ponder its words. It is the eternal truth.

Here beginneth the Gospel of John

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

Pax Christi

Food for thought

2009-09-14T21:29:00.050-05:00

Like so many typical Saturdays these past 35 years, I spent the entire day photographing a wedding. In my mental preparation of photographing a wedding, and to relieve the stress that I am experiencing, I begin to joke about the typical scenarios that will take place during the wedding day. I say to myself that I have seen it all before, unless of course it is not a Christian wedding ceremony. However I must say in all truthfulness that no wedding is really typical as I usually witness something that touches my heart. And when that happens, when my heart is touched, I begin to ponder and think....

If something touches our heart does it not seem reasonable to believe that it is the work of the Holy Spirit communicating with our conscience?

For instance, when I hear wedding vows I always recall my own wedding vows that I promised to my bride of 22 years. When I saw a bride this summer breakdown in tears of joy when seeing her father, it reminded me of the love that I saw between my wife and her now deceased father. I have seen the joy in grandparents at seeing grandchildren getting married and their determination not to let medical conditions prevent them from witnessing their wedding vows. Seeing a bride and groom at their first wedding dance reminds me of the joys of our youth and the beginnings of a new life together.

All these things that I witness are in my opinion a gift from God. It is the Holy Spirit reminding us that God is steadfast in caring and nurturing us along every step in our lives on this earth. And it doesn't end here when our time on this earth is over. Let me explain.

I like cake, especially wedding cake. I always try to find a quiet place where it is not too obvious that I am having a piece of wedding cake. Saturday was no exception. Seeing that I was sitting on a step alone eating cake, a little boy of four years old asked me, in a startled way, why I wasn't sitting at a table. My first thought was to say that I really wasn't invited to eat. Instead I remarked to him that no one wants to sit with me and there is no place for me to sit. "I can sit with you," he exclaimed. And that we did as he found a place for us to sit and waited for me to finish. About 5 minutes later he was gone and I did not see him the rest of the evening. I thought about our encounter a lot. Why this little boy who has only been on this earth for four years asked me why I wasn't sitting at a table? What does it mean to be invited to sit at a table? What does Holy Scripture say? Well.

In the Gospel of Luke chapter 14 beginning with verse 16, Jesus tells us of the parable of the great banquet.

A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready. But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused. And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room. And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet."

Many interpretations and in depth exegesis have been applied to this scripture passage by scholars more qualified than me. However when reading scripture, my first interpretation is to ponder and to simply and carefully apply it to our present day culture and my daily life in particular.

I seem to think that Christ is inviting all of us, warts and all, to a banquet. I personally think of Holy Communion that is given to us at least every Sunday by Christ through His priests within the church. I am also thinking of the eventual heavenly banquet that will take place at the end times in the very physical presence of Jesus Christ. I am also thinking of the many people that simply don't attend church on Sunday morning for various reasons. Perhaps they are playing golf. Or maybe they are fishing. Or maybe they are working on home improvement and plan to visit Home Depot. Or maybe they are simply drinking coffee at McDonalds. But on the other hand if Emeril were giving a banquet, is that an event to be missed?

Now please understand it is not my purpose in writing this post to be judgmental. My only purpose is in the hope that if the Holy Spirit, (by using whatever means available, even a child no less), strengthens you in your faith or invites you to renew your faith or even places in your heart the desire to discover the richness of knowing and trusting Jesus Christ as Lord in your life, should there be any excuses?

May I offer to you food for thought?

That's the Truth!

2009-09-05T06:29:00.012-05:00

Well I don't know about you, but I must say that I have been there and done that. Especially when I attended the University of Illinois. I chuckle when I think of how the ACLU and secular progressives would attempt to put a stop to such praying.

Think about this. When a student's head is bowed is he praying or is he concentrating on the problem? When a student's eyes are closed is he praying or trying to picture in his mind the textbook page containing the information to answer the question? You know, only God (and for a short while Mel Gibson in the movie, "What Women Want") can read a person's mind. Foiled again ACLU. I like it when God wins! How about you?

If God went on vacation

2009-08-21T20:56:00.027-05:00

I know, I know. It has been awhile since I wrote. You might say I have been on vacation. You see, we all need time for ourselves to relax and refresh. And one of the ways that I relax is to ride my Harley in Southern Illinois enjoying God's creation.

Some people don't understand the joy in riding a motorcycle. But there are things that I notice. For instance, once I went from extremely humid weather and then crossing a bridge I immediately felt cool weather as if going from heat into an air conditioned room. There are also numerous things that stimulates my sense of smell. Restaurants are one of my favorite, but I wonder how many of you have actually smelled corn when it is tasseling? It is a sweet smell and truly speaks summer.

I always notice signs too. One particular sign that I noticed caused me to stop and photograph. Then I spent the rest of my ride thinking about that sign. Posted on the sign were the words: "God never goes on a vacation from you."

So I thought about that. I am sure all of us perhaps at one time have heard our moms say, "I need a vacation from you," or "I'm going on strike." Recently I understand that one mom actually disappeared for a couple of days, (though she was really close by keeping a watchful eye because she is a mom who truly loves and cares for her family).

I am not saying that moms are wrong to have these thoughts or for that matter to seek time for themselves. But rather I am saying that I feel so bad and ashamed that I could treat my mom in such a disrespectful way. As a child, the thought of not having my mom truly terrified me. Who would take me to the doctor? Who would see to it that there is a meal for me? Who would wash my clothes? Who would sit and hold me? The list is endless and the loss would be life threatening.

I started thinking about our relationship with God and what it might be like if God indeed went on a vacation. Could we really blame God? After all, according to the President we are no longer a Christian nation. We know all too well how the news media and the ACLU work constantly at keeping God out of America. Could we blame God if he went on vacation from us? We are no longer allowed to display the ten commandments in public buildings. Try opening a public meeting with prayer. Yes, this list also is endless. So could we really blame God if he went on vacation? I think not. And what would we do if going to Church this Sunday the priest met us at the door and said, "God is on vacation so you won't have your sins forgiven nor receive Holy Communion today?" One could only imagine what this world would truly be like if God indeed went on vacation leaving us without Christian morals directing our lives. Indeed the thought is horrific.

Thankfully we have the words of Christ to assure us. Jesus Christ spoke these words in the twenty-eighth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew beginning with verse eighteen,

"All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."

Even though we are conceited, arrogant, selfish, prideful; well just downright a miserable bunch of sinful people God, in his infinite mercy, still cares for us and protects us. Thankfully, God has yet to go on vacation. Think about it.

Da List

2009-07-05T22:14:00.028-05:00

Recently, one of my favorite bloggers, A, wrote a great post entitled "Go Explore." I've always enjoyed reading his posts but this one in particular has stimulated my thinking. His list still holds my interest.

And speaking of lists, I also recommend the movie "The Bucket List." I am beginning to formulate my own bucket list, mainly for fun, but as I get older perhaps I may get serious about pursuing with vigor those tasks placed on my list. For instance, this September Harley Davidson is hosting a ride which begins in St. Joseph, MO and ends in Sacramento, CA. It is the Pony Express route. What fun it would be to take part. Camping under the stars and looking out for injuns. I can't go, but nevertheless it's on my list.

I also recall what our Lord said about serving our neighbors, especially those who are alone and without. I think we should take seriously the words of Christ as recorded in Matthew chapter 25 versus 34-46.

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

The point of this scripture concerns the final judgement. Thankfully the things we must do are not really complicated. They do not take intellect. A government stimulus is not necessary as the Holy Spirit will stimulate us enough. Our tasks set before us only require a servant's humble heart.

So to that end, I am formulating my list of those things that I ought to do, simply because my Lord requires it. I simply entitle it "Da List." Now most of the tasks that are on "Da List" I have already done. Therefore, I will constantly be adding to the many opportunities coming my way in which I can serve Christ in others that I meet.

Please feel free to comment on "Da List" and add your suggestions. No doubt that Almighty God works in each one of us to accomplish His will. I can only benefit from your suggestions and I thank you for helping. I recall the words of a priest. I pass them along to my readers. When it comes to serving God, leave this world with "no regrets."

Da List

Mentor a child.
Drive someone to the doctor.
Buy a stranger a cup of coffee.
Open the door for a stranger.
Give the Bible to a teenager.
Support a single mother.
Support a needy family for Christmas.
Take someone out to dinner.
Give up your seat to a stranger.
Take care of some one's pet.
Visit someone in the nursing home.
Sit with a dying person.
Listen attentively.
Sit with someone in a surgical waiting room.
Send a card.
Don't be afraid to hold some one's hand when necessary.
Smile often, especially to someone you don't know.
Read to someone that is all alone.
Prepare food for needy people.
Offer to pray.
Give up your place in line.
Help someone with house work.
Pay for some one's groceries.
Help clothe a needy child.
?

Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.

Witness Wednesday

2009-06-09T23:04:00.019-05:00

I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; (Acts 26:16)

Photographs taken while traveling through Southern Illinois depicting how Christians witness and share their faith in Christ. As you go about your daily activities, perhaps you will notice someone who is witnessing for Christ by displaying a sign. If so, maybe the Holy Spirit is attempting to communicate with you through these Christians?

That we all may be one.

2009-05-07T21:00:00.015-05:00

For the past eight years, the White House recognized the National Day of Prayer with a service in the East Room, but this year, President Obama decided against holding a public ceremony. I must admit I'm not really surprised that Obama would take such a position. And once again I quietly shake my head from side to side wondering what is to become of our country when even the most powerful leader of the most blessed country on the planet cannot lead his nation once a year in public prayer.

Is it not reasonable to assume that our country is in a mess? There is anxiety concerning the swine flu, the stock market, 401k plans, the housing market, the national debt being placed on our grandchildren, our borders, Iran acquiring nuclear weapons and did you notice that Air Force One flew over New York City panicking many people? So you see there is tremendous anxiety.

Did you know that scripture says don't be anxious, but pray? "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

So I would like to suggest this prayer for our country. It is found in the Book of Common Prayer on page 36 which we use in our worship in The Anglican Church in America. I hope you take a few quiet moments to read it carefully and reflect on the words of thanksgiving and petitions offered to Almighty God for this nation which has indeed been blessed. I still believe the nation that prays together stays together.

A Prayer For Our Country

ALMIGHTY God, who hast given us this good land for our heritage; We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of thy favour and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honourable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogancy, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in the Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that, through obedience to thy law, we may show forth thy praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in thee to fail; all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

While you were sleeping

2009-04-09T23:59:00.012-05:00

Maundy Thursday, 2009

While You Were Sleeping is a 1995 romantic comedy film starring Sandra Bullock and Peter Gallagher. Sandra Bullock plays Lucy Eleanor Moderatz, a lonely fare collector on the Chicago elevated railway where the highlight of her days is selling a token to a handsome commuter, Peter Callaghan (played by Peter Gallagher), on whom she has a secret crush. Working on Christmas, Lucy witnesses Peter being mugged and pushed onto the tracks, and she rescues him from an oncoming train. Peter falls into a coma and she accompanies him to the hospital, where she fantasizes aloud, "I was going to marry him". Lucy eventually falls in love with Peter's younger brother Jack and the film ends with the two happily married in wedding attire, on the back of a train departing from the station, complete with a sign reading "Just Married." Lucy explains that Peter once asked when she fell in love with Jack, and Lucy replied, "It was while you were sleeping."

This day, Maundy Thursday commemorates Christ's Last Supper and the initiation of the Eucharist. Here also after the Supper, after Judas had gone out into the night to betray Him, is when Jesus prays to the Father what is known as the "High Priestly Prayer." This prayer is recorded for us in John chapter 17.

Jesus’ “High Priestly Prayer” is only about 650 words. It takes only 3 minutes and 30 seconds to read it aloud. Jesus’ high priestly prayer is worthy of our greatest study and can take a lifetime to fully understand it. Here follows the prayer. Read it slowly and often.

“Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.
“I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

After this prayer, Jesus journeys outside the Old City of Jerusalem, crosses the Kidron Valley, and comes to the Garden of Gethsemani. There He suffered in three ways to great to be expressed in words: He knew exactly what would befall Him physically and mentally. He knew that He was taking on all the sins of the world that had ever been or ever will be committed. And Jesus knew that, for some people, this Sacrifice would not be fruitful because they would reject Him. Here He was let down by His Apostles when they fell asleep instead of keeping watch. Jesus was truly all alone. But, nevertheless, Jesus continued to love them that night. Jesus loved you last night as well and continues praying His "High Priestly Prayer" for you, even while you were sleeping!

Reflecting on Lent

2009-02-25T00:00:00.008-06:00

Remember, O man, that thou art dust, and unto dust shalt thou return. Genesis 3:19b

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent, which is the 40 days before Easter. Lent is generally observed as a time of penance by abstaining from festivities, by fasting, by almsgiving, and by devoting more than the usual time to religious exercises. However, in recent years, especially in the Western Church, more emphasis has been placed on religious exercises than on physical fasting.

While trying to discern if God was calling me to Holy Orders, a Bishop once commented that I was “arm wrestling with God.” I thought about that a lot especially when deacon Armie said, “Why don’t you let God win?” That question was like throwing cold water on me. Suddenly I felt like a worm and no man.

I now admit that in my life the Lord Jesus Christ has indeed won. It was a long process though. And for that I am remorseful. To think, of “arm wrestling” with Almighty God over the inner peace and joy of the abiding presence of the living Christ, as opposed, to my own worldly desires and ambitions in thinking, “I have all the answers and I'm in control” is indeed sobering. The thought of what might have been lost on my part for all eternity; that is the separation from knowing Jesus Christ as Lord in my life is indeed sobering.

So my question for you. Are you arm wrestling with God? Why not let God win? If you haven’t already, you could start by reading and mediating on any book of the Bible; and I suggest the Gospel of John. Do you have questions about the Bible and the meaning of some of its passages? That's normal. Personally though I like what Abraham Lincoln said to his friend Joshua Speed in 1864, “Take all of this book upon reason that you can, and the balance upon faith and you will live and die a better man.” Reason and faith is indeed good advice.

Lent is a time for us all to remember that God said to Adam, “dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” And let us also remember that Lent gives us the opportunity to reflect through prayer and fasting, with almsgiving and with penitence, and with thanksgiving to Almighty God that in Christ alone, the second Adam, we are given new life.

Have a blessed Lent.

Can you believe it?

2009-01-31T21:29:00.024-06:00

Many that know me well, are aware that I have played this little game with myself by refusing to patronize our local Wal-Mart store. The reason for my behavior is because the very day in which papers were signed for the purchase of ground in order to build my dream photography studio and one hour photo, headlines appeared in our local newspaper announcing plans for a new Super Center. Suddenly insecurity swarmed all around as I laid awake all night pondering what the future might be and if I could make good on my financial obligations.

Please understand my nervousness and apprehension. A very good friend of mine who had been my accountant and recently had assumed the position of President of our local bank just loaned me forty thousand dollars for the purchase of a lot, while this mega retailer, the world's largest no less, with sales hovering around forty billion dollars was coming to Olney. Their new facility would have a one hour photo and photography studio. I would have a new facility as well. WITH PAYMENTS! To pour salt on my open wound, my brother who was my Fuji service tech, was sent to Wal-Mart to install their photo processing equipment, the newest and best available on the market as well. Oh, and did I mention that he spent his nights at our house!

So, I decided not to patronize Wal-Mart. They don't need my support, right? I'm just one person. Besides, I'm not sure that I even like the people who shop at Wal-Mart. They're hypocrites, right? Is there a reason for my saying that? I don't really have one. I just have to say something.

Well, I did lose twenty percent of my one hour photo business the first month of their opening. And I continued to lose business substantially for the next five years. In January of 2004, we closed our one hour photo business. That was five years ago. And while business isn't what it used to be and profits seem harder to attain, we are still developing. Thanks be to God! So perhaps it is time to go to Wal-Mart.

That is precisely what we did. Returning home from work this afternoon, my wife stated that she needed to go to the store for groceries. Not feeling comfortable with her negotiating the roads with our recent twelve inch snowfall, I suggested we go to Wal-Mart. Can you believe it? The look of surprise on her face was amazing. She didn't believe me. But off we went. And now for the rest of the story.

I was guided by my wife to her favorite parking spot. She knows how to shop and where to park. Upon entering, I was greeted by an associate of Wal-Mart. A lovely lady, who had a smile and appeared kind and gentle. Next, we were greeted by a fellow shopper and her husband, we didn't know who they were, inquiring about our guest house. Then we were greeted by one of Mary Lou's girl scout leaders and her daughter. We were greeted by an electrician, who always speaks and smiles at us no matter where we are. My accountant was there and we were looking at chips and salsa for the Super Bowl. We were greeted by the spouse of our funeral home director. (On a side note, how come funeral directors never say they're happy to see you?) I also spoke with one of our local elementary school teachers. Living in a small town, I saw familiar faces but couldn't place names. I saw very young mothers, one guy with three carts of groceries in a train like arrangement, one man alone in a motorized wheel chair, and several elderly people that were alone. I narrowly averted a head on collision involving grocery carts with one lady. Her smile reminded me of my grandmother.

You know, I kinda like Wal-Mart shoppers. They're good people. They have something to offer. They have smiles and look happy to see you. There is conversation about joys and sorrows and about their children. Then there are the workers who smile and offer assistance in locating products. They try to answer all questions.

Thinking about my experience in Wal-Mart led to my thinking about the Church. I realized by not going to Wal-Mart, I was missing something that is very dear to God. I don't mean low prices but rather community. I was missing true fellowship with my neighbors. People that know me and show interest in what I have been doing. These are my neighbors and my friends.

The Church is just like this. We gather together weekly in a building to worship and pray. We humbly confess our faults to Almighty God and ask for forgiveness for our sins. We pray for one another for many and varied reasons. We hear God speak to us through Sacred Scripture. And we receive the sacrament of Holy Communion in which the real and living presence of Christ, through the Holy Spirit, is among us. Later we gather together for a noon meal, or really I should say mini feast, and fellowship. There are young children among us and elderly people as well. We are a family. We are the church.

Sadly though, there are some among us that do not go to Church. Sometimes they are very dear to us. They might be a family member such as: a brother, sister, son, daughter, spouse or even a good friend. We hope to see them in Church someday. We know what they say about going to Church. But on the other hand, and my closest friends know what I have said all along.... I said I wasn't going to Wal-Mart. Can you believe it?

Witness Wednesday

2009-01-28T00:00:00.006-06:00

I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; (Acts 26:16)

Imagine Life Without Obama

2009-01-19T12:26:00.015-06:00

I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart....Jeremiah 1:5

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

On the eve of the inauguration of President elect Barack Obama, I believe this video will clearly serve to remind everyone of a Divine plan that Almighty God has for each one of us. In thanksgiving for all the many blessings that God has provided to each one of us in our life, this country, and our prosperity, let us continually remind ourselves of what our duty is towards God when Jesus commands us by stating, "thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." Mark 12: 30,31.

NOTE: It is recommended that the sound to Da Deacon's Top Ten All Time Greatest Hits be muted before playing video.

Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are.

2009-01-11T21:45:00.027-06:00

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Luke 19:10

An interesting discussion came up the other day at my local Rotary Club meeting. Somehow we all started discussing and telling stories about being lost. For instance, one person, while rabbit hunting, was talking to his wife who was 120 miles away and forgot to make a turn which resulted in her becoming lost. I jokingly said that once my wife called and said she was lost. I asked her what street corner she was on and she said "the corner of walk and don't walk." Of course we've all heard that the reason Moses wandered in the desert for 40 years is because he wouldn't stop and ask directions.

I think we all can probably recall stories or know funny jokes about being lost. However, I also believe that all of us know something about another type of being lost that could be painful to recall. This type of loss is real. We feel it. It hinders us in our daily living and affects our life and relationships.

A particular type of being and feeling lost that I wish to allude to, is the type that separates one from having and experiencing a personal and fulfilling relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Jesus said that he came to seek and to save the lost. Furthermore, Jesus illustrated in the fifteenth chapter of Luke, the parable of the lost sheep, the parable of the lost coin, and the parable of the Lost Son. As these parables illustrate, there are many, many ways of being lost or losing something that totally has a profound effect on our life. But what is also just as remarkable about these parables is not so much about what has been lost but what happens when something that was once lost is now found!

The parable of the lost coin brings to mind the time my wife lost a valuable cross, worn constantly around her neck, which had been given to her by her deceased father. We were photographing a school when she noticed the cross was missing. Seeing her tears, several of the students went about inside and outside the building looking for the cross. It was found, not at the school, but later that night on the floor of our bedroom closet. The school was called the next morning but the joy on my wife's face is beyond this writer's description. It wasn't the cross so much that she missed, but more of what it stood for; as a deep personal connection between a daughter and a special gift given by her father.

Does it not seem reasonable to assume that all of us have experienced loss in its many varied forms? Should we not begin to reflect on those things that keep us from knowing and having a secure and fulfilling relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior? I would not put it past the Great Deceiver to constantly be meddling and stirring the pot with those things that keep us lost to the unconditional love that Jesus Christ has for each one of us. First Peter chapter 5 verse 8 says, "be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."

Again, there are undoubtedly many ways in which one can become lost and alienated from knowing Jesus Christ as Lord of your life. The following video will illustrate the many ways that people who were once lost are now found. Notice the peace, the calm, and the joy on their faces when they have been found. If from time to time you are feeling or have become lost, Jesus is willing to seek and find you no matter where you are.

Note: It is suggested that the sound to Da Deacon's All Time Top Ten Greatest Hits be muted before playing video. Thanks and enjoy!

Original Intent

2009-01-09T21:26:00.023-06:00

And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (Genesis 2:18-24)

A priest once said that if there is a desire to study theology in depth, one could accomplish that with the book of Genesis. The purpose of Genesis is to show how the world and everything in it came about and to show God's desire to have a people set apart to worship him. The themes that Genesis portrays are: The origin of the world, humanity, sin, and the nation of Israel; the sovereignty of God; and sin, judgement, grace, and promise.

In a careful reading of Genesis specific teachings about the creation of humankind, that is man and woman, are revealed by God. One will notice that both man and woman are made in the image of God. Only human beings are created in His own "image" and therefore, are representational of the invisible God, being set apart from the rest of creation as being placed on a pedestal.

God described the separate and distinct creation of woman as a "helper fit" for Adam. A helper who is normally invoked for assistance, (such as the helper invoked more than any other book in the Bible the Psalms), is stronger than the one who stands in need. While animals certainly could provide help for Adam, and even though God and Adam talked together, the helper for Adam that was needed was one to assuage loneliness. Why else would Adam declare, rather loudly I suppose, after the creation of woman from his rib, his affirmation of loyalty by stating "bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh?"

This week we received a phone call late in the afternoon of a couple who were going together to the doctor's office the next morning at 9am. They wanted to have their picture taken at 9:30 for their wedding anniversary. I was a little frustrated because we are in the middle of remodeling our camera room, installing a hardwood floor and painting as well. Needless to say the camera room was a mess and required my attention before going home for the evening as anniversary couples always show early to their appointment.

While the photography session lasted only fifteen minutes, I discovered through our conversation that this couple was celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary! They met each other at the Clay County Fair working a booth for a Church Youth Group. They had their picture taken together at the Fair and five months later were married. The man, at eighty-two years of age, still carries the original black and white picture in his wallet. There was no hesitation in showing this picture, still in pristine condition, while his bride of sixty years stood by his side. Now while his jacket did not quite button, and she did not hear or see very well, and both wore glasses, their marriage, being sustained by the Holy Spirit no less, is still in pristine condition. Does not their marriage exemplify the original intent that God had for the creation of man and woman?

Therefore, a man shall leave his father and his mother; and shall cleve unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Godly Dreams

2008-12-31T18:54:00.033-06:00

The last time I saw Armie in the hospital he was lying peacefully on his back, resting eternally in the Lord, clutching a palm cross in his hand. This is the memory I was left with, until last night when I had a dream. This is a dream involving the Holy Spirit who guards our lives while we are awake and when we are sleeping; and just as vulnerable to the assaults of the Great Deceiver.

Those who were closely acquainted with Armie knew he had many medical battles over the last several years. For instance it was over ten years ago that we thought Armie might not be able to walk and thus be confined to a wheel chair. He struggled and endured excruciating back pain, but never was he in a wheel chair. There was a time when we thought Armie would not last through the winter. There was a time this past June when we were making plans for Armie's final arrangements only to be surprised by the suddenness of his "bouncing back."

Bouncing back is where we found amusement in Armie's afflictions. Even his doctors commented that he kept beating the odds. Now please don't misunderstand. Armie knew how precarious his situation was and that his time was truly in God's hands. He knew that God had richly blessed him in all ways and even during his final hours of incessant pain, Armie continued to praise God's holy name. This time though Armie didn't bounce back or so I thought until the dream occurred.

In his book, "How to Listen to God," Charles Stanley gives Biblical guidelines for distinguishing God's Voice from the voice of deception. Stanley says, "God still speaks to us today because we need His definite and deliberate direction for our lives." "He knows we need comfort and assurance." And, "God is still talking today because He wants us to know Him." We might hear God's voice through prayer, through reading scripture, through other people's voice, through Angels, and through dreams.

Dreams are mentioned in both the Old Testament and the New Testament about one hundred and fifteen times. Two dreams that are perhaps familiar to every one occur in Matthew chapter one and two. We read about them during Christmastide. First an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph saying, "Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost." Second an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt." In both instances Joseph believed and did exactly what was spoken to him in a dream.

Even though my dream is personal, I wish to share it with you as I believe it is from the Holy Spirit and should be shared to the greater glory of God. As I mentioned earlier the last memory that I have of Armie is after he had passed away and is lying peacefully in bed. This is where my dream begins. I was in a room with others looking at Armie and remembering our times together. I had gone into another room because I sensed nervously something was happening. From this room I heard his voice. He spoke one word only, with clarity, and it was my name. I went back into the room and he was sitting in a chair slightly reclining. I got very close to his face and said, "Armie, you bounced back!" He said nothing more but I remember a smile had come over his face. I said some other personal things to him and then suddenly I woke.

While still groggy I laid awake for another hour. Callie his cat, that I have taken care of since June, was also restless and prancing around in the bedroom. I fell back asleep after mentioning this dream to Mary Lou. It wasn't until later that morning that I believed the Holy Spirit had comforted me in the loss of my friend and assured me, by a calming sense of peace, that Armie has indeed bounced back and is in the blissful joy and presence of Jesus Christ and all the faithful departed.

Perhaps others who read this post might recall dreams in which the Holy Spirit is communicating with you. After all, with all the hustle-bustle of this world, the cell phones, television, radios, cars, text messaging, day to day family and work activities, how else might God communicate with us; when we are the most vulnerable, when we are sleeping?

And by the way, may we all humbly pray that by the grace and mercy of God, find ourselves standing before Jesus where we have just bounced back!

How to Build an Altar in Only Five Minutes

2008-12-28T21:14:00.008-06:00

Way cool. I think the altar guild ladies should know how to do this:)

NOTE:: It is suggested that the sound to Da Deacon's Top Ten All Time Greatest Hits be muted before playing video. Thanks and enjoy!

No, Not One.

2008-12-13T18:18:00.028-06:00

Friday the mailman delivered three cards, which I knew from the return address label, were not from personal friends but business associates. I thought I would share them but first let me say this.

I think we could all agree there is a culture war on Christmas. The discussion on television last week is that our news media, entertainers, and businesses are making a mockery of Christmas. Some of us are beginning to speculate the Federal Government will eventually rescind December 25th as a Federal holiday. Things just seem to be shaping up that this is likely to happen. After all, the majority of people and businesses wish us "happy holidays" with no mention of Christmas. By reading the cards, all of which I received in one day, you'll notice what I am writing about.

SEASON'S GREETINGS: With appreciation for your business and with warmest wishes for a happy Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year.
SEASON'S GREETINGS: For a happy holiday season and a happy new year.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Wishing you a world of peace and happiness now and throughout the new year.

What a shame that there is not one mention of the birth of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate as Christmas. Actually, I am somewhat disappointed with my suppliers. No really I am disgusted. I want to be wished a Merry Christmas. I fully intend to wish everyone I see a Merry Christmas. I don't want to be wished, nor do I rejoice in a "happy holiday." It is not a holiday that we are rejoicing in but the birth of Jesus Christ who is to be the Saviour, and not for me alone, but for the whole world. Luke records for us in Chapter 2 verses 8-11 what we Christians, and the whole world as well, celebrate every December 25th.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

I encourage you to hear and reflect for a moment on these most comfortable words, especially when spoken by an angel of the Lord: Fear not, good tidings, great joy, all people, is born, a Saviour. So you see, for all people, there can be exceeding joy, and merriment, and good tidings, and peace on this earth, not because of some holiday, but because "the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace upon grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."

Merry Christmas!

Well Done Thou Good and Faithful Servant.

2008-11-26T23:00:00.025-06:00

Wilfred Lee "Armie" Armstrong, Deacon

Anglican Church in America

Born April 08, 1923

Died November 26, 2008

Retired Vice President AMF

Retired Major WWII Army Air Corps Pilot

Hospice of Southeastern Illinois Volunteer

May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed

by the mercy of God rest in peace.

Bitter Sweet

2008-11-25T21:34:00.034-06:00

Once again I was comforted and strengthened by the Holy Spirit being reminded of the mercy and goodness of God Almighty.

Last night Armie decided that he should place himself in the care of Hospice. This means that all care, other than pain control and feeding, is now terminated. Comfort and rest are now a priority as this good and faithful servant continues his journey home to his reward.

I say reward because Jesus says in Matthew chapter 25 verse 34, "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." Knowing that the kingdom which the children of God will inherit, was prepared in the beginning during the creation of the heaven and earth, just goes to show how God always in his mercy cares and provides for his flock. (On a side note you can read the rest of the verses (35 to the end) and learn what we should do that is pleasing to God and yes, what is not pleasing to God).

I also prayed with Armie Psalm 121. I list it here and ask that you read it carefully and meditate on its words. Notice that the Lord who made heaven and earth neither slumbers nor sleeps. And have you ever lifted your eyes to the night sky beholding the stars in prayer or praise? Notice that the Lord protects us from evil and preserves our soul, throughout our lifetime by-the-way. And not just while we are living on this earth, but for evermore!

Psalm 121

1. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
2. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
3. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved; he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
4. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber not sleep.
5. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.
6. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
7. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.
8. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

As I quietly left Armie's room tonight while listening to his labored breathing, I entered the elevator with a somber mood at the thought that this could be the last time I see my dear friend on this earth. However, as I left the elevator and turning the corner, I noticed a grandmother and three very young girls literally jumping up and down excitedly waiting for their new arrival to appear in the nursery! I knew what was going on, but for some reason I stopped walking and asked, "Has a baby just been born?" My eyes watered as I saw their smiles and heads nodding while still jumping. I was aware of the big smile on my face all the way out to the parking lot. Another deacon friend of mine once commented that each birth undoubtedly signifies that God isn't finished with us yet and indeed continues to affirm His Creation. Almighty God being Almighty God. Imagine that!

Thank you LORD for what was, what is, and what is to be.

So Long for Just a While.....

2008-11-21T21:48:00.048-06:00

It was Easter Sunday March 26th, 1989, almost twenty years ago that Mary Lou and I attended our first worship service at St. Alban. Thus was the beginning of a renewed walk with God that both Mary Lou and I were desperately looking and hoping for. You see....

Mary Lou comes from a Roman Catholic background whose grandparents were very devout and instrumental in her formation. Her grandfather was one of three men that founded ServiceMaster, a company whose business model was to honor God and to help people grow.

I also come from a Christian background as my grandfather was a Disciples of Christ pastor here in Olney in 1962. In fact he baptized me on Easter Sunday April 22, 1962. I was the last person he ever baptized as PoPo was to die of cancer in July 1963.

When Mary Lou and I met we were each hurting emotionally, each of us had very serious health problems, and we were unchurched. We went to St. Alban on a personal invitation from my mother's friend that had known me since I was a small child. That Easter Sunday was a life changing experience for us. So much so that we have attended church almost every Sunday since.

People say that it is not necessary to go to church to worship God. Well I might agree with that statement as partially true because we are to worship God by prayer and meditating on his word daily. But God created us as social human creatures and there is undoubtedly a desire to be in community. Have you ever been invited to a birthday party, or a bridal shower, or a wedding, or do you belong to a union, or a civic organization? It is in communities such as these that we meet what can become our dearest friends. The church is no exception of where we will meet our dearest friends. In fact our relationships can become so enduring that we refer to each other as "my brother" or "my sister." And when they move away or pass away their presence is sorely missed.

Tonight as I write this my dear brother in Christ "Armie" is nearing his life's end on this earth. Within the last twenty years we have enjoyed life to the fullest together. I was there when Armie was ordained to the diaconate, January 25, 1990, (the Feast of St. Paul). He was there when I was confirmed, December 10, 1989. I was there for the burial service of his wife Martha. I was there for his marriage to Betty, and I was there for the burial of Betty. Armie was the very first to encourage me to discern a calling to ordained ministry. He trained me as an acolyte, a sub-deacon, and the finer points of liturgics. After eight years of preparation, Armie was able to be present and serve at my ordination. We studied and discussed theology together and rather intently I might add these last three years, (Just ask Mary Lou)! Recently we read and discussed the book Surprised by Hope, by N.T. Wright which is about death and the resurrection. And this past October 29th and 30th we, along with Father Robert, took a road trip to Quincy, dined at an Irish pub, (twice!), had a few drinks, (twice!), and were received by the grace and mercy of God into the Anglican Church in America. All these years we have been what I call dancing before the Lord.

We have two more dances yet remaining. One is tomorrow, Saturday the 22nd of November. Armie has requested his final Holy Communion. Father Robert and I will go to his bedside where we will break bread together for our final time and give thanks to Almighty God that through the death and resurrection of his only begotten Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have hope of everlasting life and anticipate the future resurrection of our mortal bodies.

Armie will not be at our final dance. It will be his burial service. I will dance alone. Like the thief on the cross who asked Jesus to remember him, Armie will be in paradise! Armie will be dancing. Therefore, I will not say goodbye to Armie. I can only say so long for just a while.....and dance Armie, dance!

Amazing Grace Dance

NOTE: It is suggested that the sound to Da Deacon's Top Ten All Time Greatest Hits be muted before playing video. Thanks and enjoy!

President Elect Barack Obama! Now What?

2008-11-07T04:32:00.024-06:00

Don't you know, as soon as Barack Obama was elected as the 44th President of the United States, news commentators Charlie Rose and Tom Brokaw began discussing what little we actually know of this person.

They were discussing that we don't know who Obama truly is. We don't know what Obama truly thinks. We do know that Obama was an Illinois senator for 144 days, a little longer than a college semester. We know that his political views are extremely liberal and there now seems to be some concern among many of these news commentators about the future direction of this country. Fox News commentators Billy Kristol and Fred Barnes were discussing by 11p.m. on election night that the United States is a center right country and that Obama will realize this and therefore govern from the middle. But from the tone of their conservation it appears the commentators suspect this to be wishful thinking. And now everyone is saying that we must come together and support Barack Obama. I couldn't agree more! But how and in what ways?

One of the joys of worshipping Almighty God in the Anglican tradition is we have a Book of Common Prayer that is used daily in our corporate worship and private devotions. It is historic because many of the prayers date back to the early Church Fathers. It is biblical because eighty percent of its content is derived directly from Holy Scripture. We call it common prayer because it is common to all people at all times and in all places.

Inside the Prayer Book is the format for what is called The Daily Office or Morning and Evening Prayer. Our daily prayers and devotions always consist of appointed scripture readings, psalms, canticles, and prayers. Within the Daily Office of Morning and Evening Prayer is "A Prayer for The President of the United States and all in Civil Authority."

O LORD our Governor, whose glory is in all the world; We commend this nation to thy merciful care, that being guided by thy Providence, we may dwell secure in thy peace. Grant to THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, Barack Obama, and to all in authority, wisdom and strength to know and to do thy will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness; and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people in thy fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

I suggest one way we can all support the President is by offering daily this prayer to God. For instance this prayer could be prayed with your morning cup of coffee, on your way to work, or perhaps when retiring at the end of your day.

We may not know everything about President elect Barack Obama, only God knows. Only God knows the thoughts and desires of our heart. While we may disagree with his policies and decisions, first and foremost of what we really need to know is that there is a need for prayer for our self, for others, and for President elect Barack Obama. There is a need for prayer for healing for our country. There is a need for prayer for strengthening the family. And there is a need for prayer that we turn again our hearts to Almighty God and to the Lord Jesus Christ. Obama in his acceptance speech declared to the nation that we are no longer red or blue but are Americans. Ever heard of the saying, "The family that prays together stays together?" Well I say, "The nation that prays together stays together!" Imagine that!!

Change

2008-11-03T20:04:00.008-06:00

It is easy to get caught up in the election and all the media hype. I for one have been known to be quite passionate about politics, both on the local and national level. I am now approaching the time in life where I can reflect from personal experience and observation when expressing these opinions of where I sense the direction of our country is headed. However, the purpose of this blog is not to express personal opinions about politics but to do my small part in helping to make Christ known.

"Change" is the current political buzzword. In thinking about change in my life, I can recall when a decision to change resulted in both good outcomes and bad outcomes. How am I to know with certainty that a decision to change something in my life will have a positive outcome? How can I be absolutely sure that a person can promise a change that will affect my life in a positive manner and leave me utterly satisfied?

Once again we are being asked to vote for a candidate for President who promises "change we can believe in," or "I'll really change things in Washington if you elect me." Yes, those are believable statements or at least we all really really want to trust and believe our candidates will do what they say, which is, effect change that is positive and beneficial. Can we trust our candidates this time?

I suggest the one thing we can all believe in with certainty about the election is that change is coming and that we'll be exposed to the same rhetoric during the next election cycle because we put our trust in man to make our lives meaningful and fulfilling.

The only change that really matters is the decision to put away self centered worldly desires and ambitions and to rely on the unchangeable Jesus Christ for a meaningful and fulfilling life. Christ is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Christ is unchangeable. We will know this to be true when we study and take nourishment and guidance from Holy Scripture. In the book of Proverbs, chapter 3 verse 6 says, "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he will direct thy paths." Reflect on this scripture often and you will begin to experience "change that you can believe in." Imagine that!!

Why go to Church?

2008-10-25T19:35:00.011-05:00

The following is a post from one of those Internet stories that circulate. You know the annoying kind that always end with the words "if you agree pass this on to ten of your friends," or something like that. Anyway you get the picture. (photography lingo!) Maybe you have read this before, maybe not, and I won't ask you to pass this on, but I sincerely hope you take a few minutes to read it and ponder its message.

Why Go To Church?

A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. "I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."

This started a real controversy in the "letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:

"I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this.. They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"

When you are DOWN to nothing, God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! (emphasis mine) Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment!

All right, now that you're done reading, if you're of a mind and think everyone should read this... Wait a minute, I'm only kidding. But I do hope you have a Church home of your own. No need to be spiritually malnourished.

In The Beginning....

2008-10-21T21:57:00.023-05:00

These are the first three words found in Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Indeed these are familiar words to most everyone.

The purpose of the first book of the Bible is to show how the world and everything in it came about and to show God's desire to have a people set apart to worship him. The first book of the Bible tells about the creation of all things including man and woman, the first sin, and the first promise of redemption. Genesis tells about Abraham, the first Hebrew Patriarch, and Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. So as the name implies, Genesis is all about beginnings. All things have a beginning. This blog is no different. It has a beginning.

And so the first sentence of the Bible is, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." Do we really need to know anymore than that? For some whose faith in God is solid, firm, and unwavering, this might be all that is necessary in understanding creation. Others though may wish to read and understand more fully the act of creation and the rest of God's story.

There is a desire among many of us to have an intimate and personal relationship with our Creator. We can find that intimacy through reading God's word as found in Holy Scriptures. St. Augustine says, "You have created us for yourself, O God, and our hearts are restless till they find rest in thee." Augustine takes us back to creation when Adam walked intimately with God, now lost through mankind's sinfulness. However, Augustine notes that deep within each one of us the desire to know our Creator is always there. That desire, that small spark left inside each one of us, I believe is a gift from God.

We as believers live out our faith within a community of people. We share our stories, our hopes and desires, sufferings and doubts with one another. And we pray for each other as well. This is the purpose of my blog. To share with people the faith once given by Christ to the Apostles, to listen and pray for others, and to help make Christ known.

I am not sure what I will write about next. But I am sure the Holy Spirit will lead me. So for now I will say, "In the beginning Da deacon created a blog."