HIGH SCHOOL
1960s vs. 2010 Will the pendulum swing back?
HIGH SCHOOL -- 1960's vs. 2010
Scenario 1:
Jack goes quail hunting before school and then pulls into the school parking lot with his shotgun in his truck's gun rack.
1960 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's shotgun, goes to his car and gets his shotgun to show Jack..
2010 - School goes into lock down, FBI called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counselors called in for traumatized students and teachers.
Scenario 2:
Johnny and Mark get into a fist fight after school.
1960 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.
2010 - Police called and SWAT team arrives -- they arrest both Johnny and Mark. They are both charged with assault and both expelled even though Johnny started it.
Scenario 3:
Jeffrey will not be still in class, he disrupts other students....
1960 - Jeffrey sent to the Principal's office and given a good paddling by the Principal. He then returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.
2010 - Jeffrey is given huge doses of Ritalin. He becomes a zombie. He is then tested for ADD. The school gets extra money from the state because Jeffrey has a disability.
Scenario 4:
Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.
1960 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college and becomes a successful businessman.
2010 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy is removed to foster care and joins a gang. The state psychologist is told by Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has an affair with the psychologist....
Scenario 5:
Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school.
1960 - Mark shares his aspirin with the Principal out on the smoking dock.
2010 - The police are called and Mark is expelled from school for drug violations. His car is then searched for drugs and weapons.
Scenario 6:
Pedro fails high school English.
1960 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English and goes to college...
2010 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist. ACLU files class action lawsuit against the state school system and Pedro's English teacher. English is then banned from core curriculum. Pedro is given his diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.
Scenario 7:
Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from the Fourth of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle and blows up a red ant bed...
1960 - Ants die.
2010 - ATF, Homeland Security and the FBI are all called. Johnny is charged with domestic terrorism. The FBI investigates his parents -- and all siblings are removed from their home and all computers are confiscated. Johnny's dad is placed on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.
Scenario 8:
Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee. He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.
1960 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing....
2010 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job. She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.
This should hit every email inbox to show how stupid we have become!!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
An Eclipse Novella!!!!
From Meyer's website: "It's called The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner. Well, it's more of a novella than an actual book—my version of a short story." The book can be bought to add to our wonderbar collections as fans on June 5th, or it can be read online 6-7 through 7-5 at www.breetanner.com. And of course donations will be made from the proceeds. I won't reveal spoilers but will say that it is about some vampires that Victoria creates. YAY!
And on another note, I have been approached to review a set of books by the fabulous P.C. Cast. The Partholon series will be released in the UK shortly by MIRA, priced at £6.99 and I was lucky enough to be asked for my opinion! I look forward to reading them soon.
Lastly, I ask that ya'll sign this petition at www.killbill187.com. They're trying to shut down head shops in all of Florida. Before you rant & rave know the facts please. Thousands of jobs will be lost. Millions in tax revenue will be lost. And if it gets approved in Florida, your state will be next. We don't sell anything illegal and we kick out anyone looking for anything illegal. We are very strict with carding minors and we sell hand made goods by people in our community as well as clothing, stickers, candles, incense, swords, frames, memorabilia, jewelry and so much more than just tobacco pipes.
Shelly
Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’ Hosanna in the highest!" Matthew 21:9
Easter--it's in the air everywhere. The greeting card displays, the Easter egg dye kits, the fashion parade, a visit to see the Easter bunny, and perhaps an annual visit to church...that's Easter!
No, it's not--that's the trappings of Easter as seen through the eyes of earth! Come with me to the Well where heaven's real Easter is in place...and a parade is about to start!
Crowds line the road. There's excitement in the air, for the KING is coming--He who will rule His people with grace, power and majesty; He who will set His people free from oppression, obsession and control. It's a time to praise--deliverance has come! Palm branches wave; people shout, "Hosanna to the King!" It's a moment of majesty--BUT that's all it is--majesty for only a moment.
Many disappointed parade routers just a few days later cry, "Crucify Him, crucify Him!" The fickle crowd didn't really know who He was--we do! He's the eternal Lord of glory and to Him at this glorious season, we lift our eternal praise--for WE know WHO He is!
Please read Matthew 21 today.
Pastor Hersch
Monday, March 29, 2010
Manic Monday???
Yes, yes it is. Again! I was supposed to help Jennie paint the children's room at church today. Instead I have a leaky roof. Dave is of course fuming. It is our fault because we didn't seal it right away like we were advised to. He doesn't see it like that though. I'm actually not worried about it. What good does worrying do? Either we can get it fixed or we can't. It's weird how I can put complete trust in God for big things like the roof but not for little things like more work. Something I need to work on for sure. Well tomorrow I'm working. Wednesday the boys and I will be putting out signs with Rox-Anne (pastor's wifey) to advertise for our Easter Sunrise Service. Thursday is the twins science club and my twilight club. Friday I will be baking at least 5 dozen brownies for said Easter service. Saturday I'm working.
So if you don't hear from me this week, you know why. ☺
Shelly
Holy week
Then Jesus entered Jerusalem, and went into the temple. Mark 11:11
Yesterday in Jerusalem, and all around the world, Christians observed Palm Sunday, the day that commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into that holy city.
Riding on a donkey, he was greeted by ecstatic crowds who waved palm branches in celebration. In a matter of days, shouts of victory, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” gave way to betrayals.
So quickly, Jesus went from being celebrated to being crucified.
Palm Sunday is the first day of Holy Week, a week in which Christian tradition marks the last week of Jesus’ earthly life. It is a week in which we retell and remember a biblical account filled with violence and tension, political intrigue and incredible cruelty.
Holy Week invites us to know the narrative of these final days experientially. It is a week marked by the darkest shadows, the tenderness of a communal meal and the way of the cross.
It is also a week filled with hope, a week that culminates in the mystery of an empty tomb. It is a week in which we know again that God always, mysteriously brings forth life out of death.
By Easter morning, if you have walked through the events portrayed by Holy Week, you will have intimations of hope—real hope. This hope springs from the valley of the shadow of death, from the vast gap where we cannot bring forth anything new of our own power and desire. The hope is known in the frontier of suffering and death, where we least expect it.
Enter the week, enter the story.
Pleae today read Mark 11 as we journey thru this Holy Week.
And listen with your deepest self as the events of the week unfold.
During this Holy Week, may I walk with Jesus as he has walked with me. Amen
Pastor Hersch
So if you don't hear from me this week, you know why. ☺
Shelly
Holy week
Then Jesus entered Jerusalem, and went into the temple. Mark 11:11
Yesterday in Jerusalem, and all around the world, Christians observed Palm Sunday, the day that commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into that holy city.
Riding on a donkey, he was greeted by ecstatic crowds who waved palm branches in celebration. In a matter of days, shouts of victory, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” gave way to betrayals.
So quickly, Jesus went from being celebrated to being crucified.
Palm Sunday is the first day of Holy Week, a week in which Christian tradition marks the last week of Jesus’ earthly life. It is a week in which we retell and remember a biblical account filled with violence and tension, political intrigue and incredible cruelty.
Holy Week invites us to know the narrative of these final days experientially. It is a week marked by the darkest shadows, the tenderness of a communal meal and the way of the cross.
It is also a week filled with hope, a week that culminates in the mystery of an empty tomb. It is a week in which we know again that God always, mysteriously brings forth life out of death.
By Easter morning, if you have walked through the events portrayed by Holy Week, you will have intimations of hope—real hope. This hope springs from the valley of the shadow of death, from the vast gap where we cannot bring forth anything new of our own power and desire. The hope is known in the frontier of suffering and death, where we least expect it.
Enter the week, enter the story.
Pleae today read Mark 11 as we journey thru this Holy Week.
And listen with your deepest self as the events of the week unfold.
During this Holy Week, may I walk with Jesus as he has walked with me. Amen
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
things that make you go "hmm"
I slept until 10am yesterday and 10:30am today. It was great! I don't like working! Actually it's just the times that are so hard. 11am - 8pm makes for a long day when you have to do stuff before and after work. I am grateful to have a job tho. And it's easy and the guy I work for is great. But the hours are crazy! So I've been catching up on my sleep. :)
I think next week I will be going to IKEA again. I will check online for stock availability be fore I leave tho. I was so upset they didn't have what I wanted in stock. I still had fun with Bryan and Kristin and Wyatt so it wasn't a wasted day.
Tomorrow I'm going to see Remember Me with Jennie. YAY!
Well Pastor's devotion is next.
Shelly
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 1st Corinthians 1:27
Writing about his time at a teen Bible camp, a counselor tells this story,
"Teenage boys have a tendency to pick on some unfortunate child. That summer it was 13-year-old Billy, a child who couldn't walk or talk right. When the children from his cabin were assigned to lead devotions, they voted Billy in as the speaker. It didn't seem to bother him. He dragged himself up to the pulpit amid sneers and snickers, and it took him a long time to stammer, "Je-sus loves...me... and...I...love Je-sus."
There was stunned silence, and when I looked around there were boys with tears streaming down their cheeks. We'd done many things to try to reach these boys, but nothing had worked. We'd even brought in famous baseball players whose batting averages had gone up since they started praying, but it had no effect. It wasn't until a special needs child declared his love for Jesus that everything changed.
I travel a lot and it's surprising how often I meet people who say, 'You probably don't remember me. I became a Christian at a camp where you were a counselor, and do you know what the turning point was for me?' I never have to ask. I always know I'm going to hear - Billy!"
The Bible says, "God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise." So when you find yourself focusing on what you can't do, remember His "power works best in your weakness." Just do what you can, and God will do the rest!
He'll crown your efforts with success.
Pastor Hersch
I think next week I will be going to IKEA again. I will check online for stock availability be fore I leave tho. I was so upset they didn't have what I wanted in stock. I still had fun with Bryan and Kristin and Wyatt so it wasn't a wasted day.
Tomorrow I'm going to see Remember Me with Jennie. YAY!
Well Pastor's devotion is next.
Shelly
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 1st Corinthians 1:27
Writing about his time at a teen Bible camp, a counselor tells this story,
"Teenage boys have a tendency to pick on some unfortunate child. That summer it was 13-year-old Billy, a child who couldn't walk or talk right. When the children from his cabin were assigned to lead devotions, they voted Billy in as the speaker. It didn't seem to bother him. He dragged himself up to the pulpit amid sneers and snickers, and it took him a long time to stammer, "Je-sus loves...me... and...I...love Je-sus."
There was stunned silence, and when I looked around there were boys with tears streaming down their cheeks. We'd done many things to try to reach these boys, but nothing had worked. We'd even brought in famous baseball players whose batting averages had gone up since they started praying, but it had no effect. It wasn't until a special needs child declared his love for Jesus that everything changed.
I travel a lot and it's surprising how often I meet people who say, 'You probably don't remember me. I became a Christian at a camp where you were a counselor, and do you know what the turning point was for me?' I never have to ask. I always know I'm going to hear - Billy!"
The Bible says, "God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise." So when you find yourself focusing on what you can't do, remember His "power works best in your weakness." Just do what you can, and God will do the rest!
He'll crown your efforts with success.
Pastor Hersch
Saturday, March 20, 2010
OOOO MYYYYY
So addicted to the Twilight saga. I should shoot myself! LOL least I know I'm not alone in my addiction. :)
This morning I met Jennie at Target before they opened. Of course we had 1 common goal. GET NEW MOON!!!! We would have gone out at midnight last night if we could have found somewhere open with the 3 disc version for sale. I'm glad we didn't because they also had the graphic novel and the newest Vampire Diaries book. It's nice to see hollywood go through another "vampires are hott" phase. I can never get enough! Yeah, I'm weird and I wear it proudly! :)
Well I have watched New Moon twice since 8am and have watched all the bonus features and read through the graphic novel. I'm gonna watch Twilight now and then New Moon once more. I love my job! lolol
Shelly
Here's Pastor Hersch; oh and I am soooo content right now!!!! :)
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 1st Timothy 6:8
In some campgrounds, campsites are assigned when you arrive. The camper has no choice. Some sites have spectacular views or are in secluded areas. Others are crowded together or face trash bins or other unpleasant sights.
It’s tempting to grumble that "theirs is nicer," even though mountain beauty fills the surrounding horizon. Often on life’s trail we overlook the blessings we have, magnify our irritations, and desire what others possess.
The Lord has provided richly for us.
Food and clothing are all we need, writes St. Paul. We have these and so much more. Still better, we have forgiveness because of the suffering and death of Jesus. He paid for our sins of complaining and coveting. How beautifully His blessings surround us!
In lifting our thoughts to these blessings, we recognize that the Lord has acted with love and wisdom to place us where we are. He made us His children in Christ. We can accept and be thankful that He has blessed us, especially in Jesus, even if we don’t always get the campsite with a view.
Lord, thank You for all You have given us, especially for the gift of Jesus. Help us to be content. Amen.
Pastor Hersch
This morning I met Jennie at Target before they opened. Of course we had 1 common goal. GET NEW MOON!!!! We would have gone out at midnight last night if we could have found somewhere open with the 3 disc version for sale. I'm glad we didn't because they also had the graphic novel and the newest Vampire Diaries book. It's nice to see hollywood go through another "vampires are hott" phase. I can never get enough! Yeah, I'm weird and I wear it proudly! :)
Well I have watched New Moon twice since 8am and have watched all the bonus features and read through the graphic novel. I'm gonna watch Twilight now and then New Moon once more. I love my job! lolol
Shelly
Here's Pastor Hersch; oh and I am soooo content right now!!!! :)
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 1st Timothy 6:8
In some campgrounds, campsites are assigned when you arrive. The camper has no choice. Some sites have spectacular views or are in secluded areas. Others are crowded together or face trash bins or other unpleasant sights.
It’s tempting to grumble that "theirs is nicer," even though mountain beauty fills the surrounding horizon. Often on life’s trail we overlook the blessings we have, magnify our irritations, and desire what others possess.
The Lord has provided richly for us.
Food and clothing are all we need, writes St. Paul. We have these and so much more. Still better, we have forgiveness because of the suffering and death of Jesus. He paid for our sins of complaining and coveting. How beautifully His blessings surround us!
In lifting our thoughts to these blessings, we recognize that the Lord has acted with love and wisdom to place us where we are. He made us His children in Christ. We can accept and be thankful that He has blessed us, especially in Jesus, even if we don’t always get the campsite with a view.
Lord, thank You for all You have given us, especially for the gift of Jesus. Help us to be content. Amen.
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Whew!
Been home all day trying to get things done around here. The boys don't like it when I'm home because they have to do "real" school work. Thankfully they don't see reading as real schooling.
This Saturday is the day! New Moon will be released at midnight. Sadly Target will not be open. Yes I know, I called them. I wanted to pick up the movie at midnight because I'm working but alas no go. I could go to Wal-Mart but Target has the 3 disc version. Haven't quite figured out how to swing this one. Maybe I'll go as soon as they open on Saturday...
Brian's service was nice. It wasn't as sad as others that I have been too. I informed Dave that I wanted a party when I die. He said "don't worry, I will be having a party." Not quite sure how to take that one lol. Here's Pastor Hersch.
Shelly
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2nd Corinthians 5:17
I read about a lady who stopped her three-pack-a-day smoking habit.
When she talked over her decision with her doctor, he warned her she might find herself becoming a bit irritable.
With a straight face, she shared that this hadn't been the case at all. She assured him she had remained her normal, sweet, kindly self. Of course, he was impressed - - until she also said that though she remained normal, that was not true of her friends.
During the first weeks of her quitting, she found her friends had become so disagreeable she couldn't stand to be around them. Without realizing it, this lady had discovered a basic truth: people often see their reflection in those around them.
When I'm in a good mood, it seems everyone I come in contact with seems to be happy as well. On the other hand, if I'm a little bit cranky, I can't believe how irritable everyone else seems to be.
I'm forced to confess they haven't changed; it was me. They are only reflecting my attitude.
That's one of the many reasons I love my Savior. He didn't reflect the emotions and feelings others directed toward Him. When He was beaten, He didn't fight back. When He was lied about, He didn't lie in return. When He was hated, He didn't get nasty. Indeed, when people nailed Him to a cross, He forgave them.
All this Jesus suffered for us. All this He did so you and I might be remade, so we might become new creatures. As Saint Paul said to the Corinthian church, we sinful persons, because of the Christ, are transformed into saints. Those headed for hell are redirected to heaven.
Because Jesus loves me, I can reflect His love to others. He cares for me, so I can reflect that concern in the way I live.
Now understand, anyone will tell you I don't always succeed at being sweetness and light. . . . but I do try. And when I fail, it's good to know my Savior won't.
Pastor Hersch
This Saturday is the day! New Moon will be released at midnight. Sadly Target will not be open. Yes I know, I called them. I wanted to pick up the movie at midnight because I'm working but alas no go. I could go to Wal-Mart but Target has the 3 disc version. Haven't quite figured out how to swing this one. Maybe I'll go as soon as they open on Saturday...
Brian's service was nice. It wasn't as sad as others that I have been too. I informed Dave that I wanted a party when I die. He said "don't worry, I will be having a party." Not quite sure how to take that one lol. Here's Pastor Hersch.
Shelly
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2nd Corinthians 5:17
I read about a lady who stopped her three-pack-a-day smoking habit.
When she talked over her decision with her doctor, he warned her she might find herself becoming a bit irritable.
With a straight face, she shared that this hadn't been the case at all. She assured him she had remained her normal, sweet, kindly self. Of course, he was impressed - - until she also said that though she remained normal, that was not true of her friends.
During the first weeks of her quitting, she found her friends had become so disagreeable she couldn't stand to be around them. Without realizing it, this lady had discovered a basic truth: people often see their reflection in those around them.
When I'm in a good mood, it seems everyone I come in contact with seems to be happy as well. On the other hand, if I'm a little bit cranky, I can't believe how irritable everyone else seems to be.
I'm forced to confess they haven't changed; it was me. They are only reflecting my attitude.
That's one of the many reasons I love my Savior. He didn't reflect the emotions and feelings others directed toward Him. When He was beaten, He didn't fight back. When He was lied about, He didn't lie in return. When He was hated, He didn't get nasty. Indeed, when people nailed Him to a cross, He forgave them.
All this Jesus suffered for us. All this He did so you and I might be remade, so we might become new creatures. As Saint Paul said to the Corinthian church, we sinful persons, because of the Christ, are transformed into saints. Those headed for hell are redirected to heaven.
Because Jesus loves me, I can reflect His love to others. He cares for me, so I can reflect that concern in the way I live.
Now understand, anyone will tell you I don't always succeed at being sweetness and light. . . . but I do try. And when I fail, it's good to know my Savior won't.
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
What a crazy couple of days. To start off our weekend, everyone at church received sad news. Brian Fulton passed away last week rather unexpectedly. His girlfriend Joyce was able to put up a brave front at his funeral last night. It's sad because he's gone but happy because he's no longer in pain and is rejoicing in Heaven. Please keep Joyce and the Fulton family in your thoughts and prayers.
I've been working sooo much lately. Shane had a friend fly into town last week and he's playing host until this Friday. Then I go back to working weekends. Kristin's baby shower was Sunday afternoon. So much fun. I loved that I wowed her with the gift I got her. She totally expected to get it from someone else.
Everyone loves my new glasses. Pastor Hersch was funny on Sunday when we walked into church. He greeted Dave & the boys and asked who I was. I guess the new glasses, new hair do and semi new outfit was too much to resist a joke. Speaking of, his devotional is next. Have a great day!
Shelly
For He will deliver the needy when he cries, The poor also, and him who has no helper. Psalm 72:12
Some time ago, a French tourist set out to cross St. Bernard's Pass by himself. When he got caught in the fog near the top, he sat on a rock and waited for one of the famous St. Bernard dogs, which have rescued thousands of lost travelers, to come and attend to him. But none came.
When the fog cleared away, he managed to reach the hospice. There he let it be known that he thought the dog a rather overrated animal.
"There I was," he said, "for at least six hours, and not one came near me." "But why," exclaimed one of the monks, "did you not ring us up on the telephone?"
Then he explained to the astonished tourist that the whole of the pass is provided with shelters at short distances from each other - all in direct phone communication with the hospice. When the bell rings, the monks send off a dog loaded with bread, wine and other comforts.
The dog goes straight to the proper shelter. The system saves the hounds their former duty of patrolling the pass on the chance of a stray traveler being found, and as the pass is under deep snow for about eight months of the year, this entailed hard and often fruitless labor.
Many people in need of spiritual help have not yet realized there is One who will hear and answer directly the troubled cries for help.
Pastor Hersch
I've been working sooo much lately. Shane had a friend fly into town last week and he's playing host until this Friday. Then I go back to working weekends. Kristin's baby shower was Sunday afternoon. So much fun. I loved that I wowed her with the gift I got her. She totally expected to get it from someone else.
Everyone loves my new glasses. Pastor Hersch was funny on Sunday when we walked into church. He greeted Dave & the boys and asked who I was. I guess the new glasses, new hair do and semi new outfit was too much to resist a joke. Speaking of, his devotional is next. Have a great day!
Shelly
For He will deliver the needy when he cries, The poor also, and him who has no helper. Psalm 72:12
Some time ago, a French tourist set out to cross St. Bernard's Pass by himself. When he got caught in the fog near the top, he sat on a rock and waited for one of the famous St. Bernard dogs, which have rescued thousands of lost travelers, to come and attend to him. But none came.
When the fog cleared away, he managed to reach the hospice. There he let it be known that he thought the dog a rather overrated animal.
"There I was," he said, "for at least six hours, and not one came near me." "But why," exclaimed one of the monks, "did you not ring us up on the telephone?"
Then he explained to the astonished tourist that the whole of the pass is provided with shelters at short distances from each other - all in direct phone communication with the hospice. When the bell rings, the monks send off a dog loaded with bread, wine and other comforts.
The dog goes straight to the proper shelter. The system saves the hounds their former duty of patrolling the pass on the chance of a stray traveler being found, and as the pass is under deep snow for about eight months of the year, this entailed hard and often fruitless labor.
Many people in need of spiritual help have not yet realized there is One who will hear and answer directly the troubled cries for help.
Pastor Hersch
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Sometimes...
Life just sucks! I know it's only for the here and now and that we tend to get caught up in that but still. Death is never easy, even when it's someone you didn't know well. Our little church has lost another. Brian Fulton has passed away and now Joyce is hurting. Please keep her in your prayers if you are a prayer warrior. Thanks.
Shelly
I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20
In the early 1980s, a young woman was languishing in deep spiritual, mental and emotional torment. She wrote:
Dear God,
Where are You? How can You watch and not help me? I hurt so bad, and You don't even care. If You cared You'd make it stop or let me die. I love You, but You seem so far away. I can't hear You or feel You or see You, but I'm supposed to believe You're here. Lord, I feel them and hear them. They are here. I know You're real, God, but they are more real to me right now. Please make someone believe me, Lord. Why won't You make it stop? Please, Lord, please! If You love me You'll let me die.
A Lost Sheep
Many Christians, I fear, are filled with such confusion that their daily walk with Jesus is unfulfilling and unproductive.
When they try to pray, they begin thinking about a million things they should be doing. When they sit down to read the Bible, they can't concentrate.
When they have an opportunity to serve the Lord in some way, they are brought up short by discouraging thoughts of self-doubt.
After she was saved and had Jesus in her heart, in her new found freedom, "The Lost Sheep" wrote a response to her own prayer based on her new understanding of God's provision through Jesus.
My Dear Lost Sheep,
You ask Me where I am. My child, I am with you and I always will be. You are weak, but in Me you are strong. I am so close that I feel everything you feel. Be crucified with Me and I will live in you, and you shall live with Me. I will direct you in paths of righteousness. My child, I love you and I will never forsake you, for you are truly Mine.
Love, God
See you in church
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20
In the early 1980s, a young woman was languishing in deep spiritual, mental and emotional torment. She wrote:
Dear God,
Where are You? How can You watch and not help me? I hurt so bad, and You don't even care. If You cared You'd make it stop or let me die. I love You, but You seem so far away. I can't hear You or feel You or see You, but I'm supposed to believe You're here. Lord, I feel them and hear them. They are here. I know You're real, God, but they are more real to me right now. Please make someone believe me, Lord. Why won't You make it stop? Please, Lord, please! If You love me You'll let me die.
A Lost Sheep
Many Christians, I fear, are filled with such confusion that their daily walk with Jesus is unfulfilling and unproductive.
When they try to pray, they begin thinking about a million things they should be doing. When they sit down to read the Bible, they can't concentrate.
When they have an opportunity to serve the Lord in some way, they are brought up short by discouraging thoughts of self-doubt.
After she was saved and had Jesus in her heart, in her new found freedom, "The Lost Sheep" wrote a response to her own prayer based on her new understanding of God's provision through Jesus.
My Dear Lost Sheep,
You ask Me where I am. My child, I am with you and I always will be. You are weak, but in Me you are strong. I am so close that I feel everything you feel. Be crucified with Me and I will live in you, and you shall live with Me. I will direct you in paths of righteousness. My child, I love you and I will never forsake you, for you are truly Mine.
Love, God
See you in church
Pastor Hersch
Friday, March 12, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
HUGS
When someone says they don't like to be hugged, don't hug them. For years I have been plagued with huggy people. I don't like being touched. Don't take it personal just respect my feelings and hug someone else. My hugs are named anyway. Brandon, Brett, Brody and Bryan. OK not just them. If I run into someone I haven't seen in forever, or if I am with my aunt Toni & uncle Joe, then I hug. But seriously, don't hug me unless I initiate it. It's a wonder I survived at my church for so long because they are all huggy people! I just quietly skip outta the room when pastor Hersch says give the person next to you a hug. OK, feel better having said that.
Yesterday was fun!! Kristin and I went to IKEA and we had Bryan and Wyatt with us. It was great. EXCEPT they didn't have my bookshelves. Well they did but I changed my mind there. Bryan spotted these killer cute shelves and they were $20 cheaper than the ones I went to get. Just my luck, they were sold out. The guys is like "Oh just come back tomorrow". Guess he didn't realize not everyone lives around the corner from IKEA lol. I'll try again next week as I have too much to do today. Well I best get to doing or else I'll run out of time.
Shelly
I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 1st Corinthians 15:31
Did you know that you speak over nine million words a year, and a lot of them are 'I', 'me', 'my' and 'mine'? So God's response calls for dying to self. Paul said: 'I die [to self] every day.'
But for many of us, 'Behold I live for evermore' is more in keeping with how we conduct our lives! The Bible says in Galatians 5:24, ‘And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.' But self-interest won't just roll over and die, it must be 'killed off for good'. It's a constant battle because we've a tendency to cling to our own interests with a death grip.
Jesus told His disciples, ‘And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave.” A slave was the lowest of servants. Seasoned followers of Christ are called to higher levels of selflessness than beginners. And when you aspire to lead others, God raises that bar even higher!
Many times He'll leave you with a permanent reminder of how He managed to get through to you in an area where you were stubborn. 'Moses was ... 'mighty in words,’ but he struggled with a speech impediment. A limp became Jacob's trademark. Even the Apostle Paul, 'was given me a thorn in my flesh,' What's your handicap? The habit you battle or the fear that never leaves? 'Why doesn't God just take it away?' you ask. Because anything that keeps you dependent on Him is a plus, not a minus.
Pastor Hersch
Yesterday was fun!! Kristin and I went to IKEA and we had Bryan and Wyatt with us. It was great. EXCEPT they didn't have my bookshelves. Well they did but I changed my mind there. Bryan spotted these killer cute shelves and they were $20 cheaper than the ones I went to get. Just my luck, they were sold out. The guys is like "Oh just come back tomorrow". Guess he didn't realize not everyone lives around the corner from IKEA lol. I'll try again next week as I have too much to do today. Well I best get to doing or else I'll run out of time.
Shelly
I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 1st Corinthians 15:31
Did you know that you speak over nine million words a year, and a lot of them are 'I', 'me', 'my' and 'mine'? So God's response calls for dying to self. Paul said: 'I die [to self] every day.'
But for many of us, 'Behold I live for evermore' is more in keeping with how we conduct our lives! The Bible says in Galatians 5:24, ‘And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.' But self-interest won't just roll over and die, it must be 'killed off for good'. It's a constant battle because we've a tendency to cling to our own interests with a death grip.
Jesus told His disciples, ‘And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave.” A slave was the lowest of servants. Seasoned followers of Christ are called to higher levels of selflessness than beginners. And when you aspire to lead others, God raises that bar even higher!
Many times He'll leave you with a permanent reminder of how He managed to get through to you in an area where you were stubborn. 'Moses was ... 'mighty in words,’ but he struggled with a speech impediment. A limp became Jacob's trademark. Even the Apostle Paul, 'was given me a thorn in my flesh,' What's your handicap? The habit you battle or the fear that never leaves? 'Why doesn't God just take it away?' you ask. Because anything that keeps you dependent on Him is a plus, not a minus.
Pastor Hersch
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
IKEA
YAY! Today I'm going to IKEA with Kristin and her adorable 20month old son Wyatt. I'm getting my book shelves for the dining room. Sooo excited! The house is finally coming along. I will be so stoked when we're no longer living out of boxes and shuffling one mess from this corner to that closet in search of things. I will also be checking out the various storage options they have because I have decided to attempt Sue Patrick's Workbox System. With me working so much lately (again today) I need a better system for the boys to ensure everything is done. I'm looking forward to setting up my own system and getting the boys more organized.
Shelly
Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12
Why does God bring tests into our lives?
Is it because He wants to give us a hard time or embarrass us?
No. It is because God wants us to learn. He wants us to mature spiritually. God wants us to learn to trust Him, even when we don’t understand Him. He wants us to be patient with Him, even when He doesn’t work according to our schedules.
The Bible says, “For whom the Lord loves He chastens . . .” Hebrews 12:6. Although God will discipline you when necessary, the word chasten also means “to train.” God wants to teach you. He wants you to grow.
He loves you so much that He will bring a series of tests and lessons into your life to whip you into shape. Those very tests, those very difficulties, and those very obstacles all can be indications of God’s love for you.
When you start to cross the line and do something you shouldn’t, God's Holy Spirit will be there to convict you. When you try to do something that you know is wrong and God puts an obstacle in your path, it is because He loves you.
The times you should be concerned are when you can do things that you know are wrong and feel no remorse. But when you know something is wrong and struggle with it, that is a sign you are a child of God and He loves you enough to show you when you are going astray.
Instead of seeing God’s chastening as an intrusion in your life, welcome it. And be thankful He is looking out for you.
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12
Why does God bring tests into our lives?
Is it because He wants to give us a hard time or embarrass us?
No. It is because God wants us to learn. He wants us to mature spiritually. God wants us to learn to trust Him, even when we don’t understand Him. He wants us to be patient with Him, even when He doesn’t work according to our schedules.
The Bible says, “For whom the Lord loves He chastens . . .” Hebrews 12:6. Although God will discipline you when necessary, the word chasten also means “to train.” God wants to teach you. He wants you to grow.
He loves you so much that He will bring a series of tests and lessons into your life to whip you into shape. Those very tests, those very difficulties, and those very obstacles all can be indications of God’s love for you.
When you start to cross the line and do something you shouldn’t, God's Holy Spirit will be there to convict you. When you try to do something that you know is wrong and God puts an obstacle in your path, it is because He loves you.
The times you should be concerned are when you can do things that you know are wrong and feel no remorse. But when you know something is wrong and struggle with it, that is a sign you are a child of God and He loves you enough to show you when you are going astray.
Instead of seeing God’s chastening as an intrusion in your life, welcome it. And be thankful He is looking out for you.
Pastor Hersch
Monday, March 8, 2010
I know...
It's been a long week! I worked a lot and had a lot of errands to do. Went to Costco and ordered my contacts and super cute glasses! Stumped the girls on their Twilight quiz. Pancake breakfast at church yesterday was yummi! The AC was installed. I guess you get what you pay for. That's all I have to say about the word they did. And something else....what was it...oh yeah! Now I remember! My kitchen! It is now 1/2 done! YAY! And as soon as I figure out where my boys put my camera, I will post pics...
This week is gonna be crazy too so I apologize in advance if I don't come on everyday. Today the house has to be cleaned. The work done Saturday made such a mess everywhere! It's disgusting! I imagine the cleaning will stretch into tomorrow then tomorrow night it's Ladies night. The ladies from church are going to see Alice in Wonderland. YAY! Well that's all for now. Pastor Hersch's devotional is next.
Shelly
Godliness with contentment is great gain. 1st Timothy 6:6
Some of us are afraid of godliness. Life is so full. Shopping and sports, laundry and television, friends and music. In contrast to this, we set "godliness." It seems to narrow the great range of life and shrink all its bright color.
How wrong an impression!
We don’t need to separate our lives into two parts—the "everyday" and the "spiritual." Life is not to be divided.
Look at Jesus. He was neither a stuffy, straight-laced Puritan nor a frightened recluse. He walked over the open hills and lived with vigorous men. Children flocked to Him. He was eager to feed the hungry. When the pious condemned, He reminded them of their own sin.
Jesus goal was not merely to reform men, to make them kind and decent.
He came to save. His saving love stabs to the heart of our sin.
To lift us, God puts us low.
To give us sight, He first must blind.
To give new life, He must shatter the old life.
Godliness begins with Christ’s victory on the cross. There Jesus broke the power of evil that separated us from Him. Through faith in our Savior, the Holy Spirit fills our heart with true Godliness—piety and loving awe toward God—and with sincere contentment with the material goods and the position in life that God has granted to us.
Pastor Hersch
This week is gonna be crazy too so I apologize in advance if I don't come on everyday. Today the house has to be cleaned. The work done Saturday made such a mess everywhere! It's disgusting! I imagine the cleaning will stretch into tomorrow then tomorrow night it's Ladies night. The ladies from church are going to see Alice in Wonderland. YAY! Well that's all for now. Pastor Hersch's devotional is next.
Shelly
Godliness with contentment is great gain. 1st Timothy 6:6
Some of us are afraid of godliness. Life is so full. Shopping and sports, laundry and television, friends and music. In contrast to this, we set "godliness." It seems to narrow the great range of life and shrink all its bright color.
How wrong an impression!
We don’t need to separate our lives into two parts—the "everyday" and the "spiritual." Life is not to be divided.
Look at Jesus. He was neither a stuffy, straight-laced Puritan nor a frightened recluse. He walked over the open hills and lived with vigorous men. Children flocked to Him. He was eager to feed the hungry. When the pious condemned, He reminded them of their own sin.
Jesus goal was not merely to reform men, to make them kind and decent.
He came to save. His saving love stabs to the heart of our sin.
To lift us, God puts us low.
To give us sight, He first must blind.
To give new life, He must shatter the old life.
Godliness begins with Christ’s victory on the cross. There Jesus broke the power of evil that separated us from Him. Through faith in our Savior, the Holy Spirit fills our heart with true Godliness—piety and loving awe toward God—and with sincere contentment with the material goods and the position in life that God has granted to us.
Pastor Hersch
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Holy Moly!
Well....went to Costco yesterday. That was a waste. I couldn't switch brands for my contacts. Couldn't see out of the stupid things. Waaaah they were so much more comfortable that the acuvue I wear! How annoying! But I did find a super cute pair of glasses. Hopefully I'll be able to get them!
Have errands to run today. And then today at 2:30 the twins start a science class with their friend Justin and his mom. They don't know. :)
After that is Twilight Club then church. Tomorrow I'm not getting outta bed until noon! Next is Pastor Hersch's daily devotional.
Shelly
But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his servants, “Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” And they began to make merry. Luke 15:20-24
When was the last time someone really gave you a hug? Not a quick, “hi-how-are-you” embrace, but a hug. A good, long-lasting expression of just how wonderful, how terrific, how absolutely valuable you are as a human being?
Such moments are moments of grace. They happen because another human being knows how loved he or she is by God. For whatever reason, they have experienced the value of life and is able to convey that love and care to others.
In the willingness of such a companion to share themself with us, we experience the incarnate word of God. The word has been “spoken” within our friend, and knowing that amazing love, they became willing to share it with us, the simple embrace of companionship.
All of us are called to this holy hug! Experiencing the love of God in Christ, we are to share the word that we hear within, and let it go forth as a testimony to the love of God in Christ.
Knowing how loved we are, we are to proclaim that same Good News to all people—“you are terrific, loved, beautiful.”
TODAY-find someone and give them a hug. A real hug! And as you do, remember how wonderful it is to be held, to be held by God, and to let that love surround you in the arms of another.
Amazing—as you give it away, it returns to you tenfold.
Pastor Hersch
Have errands to run today. And then today at 2:30 the twins start a science class with their friend Justin and his mom. They don't know. :)
After that is Twilight Club then church. Tomorrow I'm not getting outta bed until noon! Next is Pastor Hersch's daily devotional.
Shelly
But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his servants, “Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” And they began to make merry. Luke 15:20-24
When was the last time someone really gave you a hug? Not a quick, “hi-how-are-you” embrace, but a hug. A good, long-lasting expression of just how wonderful, how terrific, how absolutely valuable you are as a human being?
Such moments are moments of grace. They happen because another human being knows how loved he or she is by God. For whatever reason, they have experienced the value of life and is able to convey that love and care to others.
In the willingness of such a companion to share themself with us, we experience the incarnate word of God. The word has been “spoken” within our friend, and knowing that amazing love, they became willing to share it with us, the simple embrace of companionship.
All of us are called to this holy hug! Experiencing the love of God in Christ, we are to share the word that we hear within, and let it go forth as a testimony to the love of God in Christ.
Knowing how loved we are, we are to proclaim that same Good News to all people—“you are terrific, loved, beautiful.”
TODAY-find someone and give them a hug. A real hug! And as you do, remember how wonderful it is to be held, to be held by God, and to let that love surround you in the arms of another.
Amazing—as you give it away, it returns to you tenfold.
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
WHEW!
What a weekend! Worked Thursday - Monday. I know some of you think big deal right? But I'm not used to that. And Friday was crazy busy! I was so beat when I got home.
This week is gonna be crazed too. Today I have to take everything out of the kitchen and finish the painting in there. I think Jennie is coming to help so yay! Tomorrow I have to take everything out of the twins room and organize(trash) a lot. The extra closet in there has to be emptied because the AC is getting installed and that's where the handler is going. Then I have to hit Costco cause my contacts came in. YAY
Thursday I think I will try to meet up with Pastor Hersch and plan out the schedule for the next couple months for church activities & meals. Then of course Twilight Club at 4pm. We are having so much fun it's sad when we have to miss a week. The girls hate it! Friday we pick up the kitchen stuff needed to have the next 1/3 of my kitchen done on Saturday. Same day as the AC going in. Glad I'll be at work!
Next week I'm relaxing!!
Shelly
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in Him. Psalm 34:8
It was a Christian family. A little girl was standing next to her grief-stricken mother, whose face was stained with tears over the sudden loss of a loved one. Putting her arm tenderly around her mother, the little one said with all the simplicity of her childlike faith: "Mommy, why don’t you try Jesus?"
Could any words have been more fitting? How often, when a person has been surrounded by problems and perplexities, have we heard him say: "I’ve tried everything—but nothing helped"?
How often have you and I thought or said the very same thing: "I’ve tried everything, but …"?
Everything but Jesus! Yet it is He who stands at every crisis point of our life! He stands with open arms and says: " "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” King David once exclaimed: "O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in Him."
Nor are we to turn to Jesus as our last resort. In every changing scene of life, we are to remember: He "is a very present help in trouble" Psalm 46:1.
Try Him! You will not be disappointed.
Pastor Hersch
This week is gonna be crazed too. Today I have to take everything out of the kitchen and finish the painting in there. I think Jennie is coming to help so yay! Tomorrow I have to take everything out of the twins room and organize(trash) a lot. The extra closet in there has to be emptied because the AC is getting installed and that's where the handler is going. Then I have to hit Costco cause my contacts came in. YAY
Thursday I think I will try to meet up with Pastor Hersch and plan out the schedule for the next couple months for church activities & meals. Then of course Twilight Club at 4pm. We are having so much fun it's sad when we have to miss a week. The girls hate it! Friday we pick up the kitchen stuff needed to have the next 1/3 of my kitchen done on Saturday. Same day as the AC going in. Glad I'll be at work!
Next week I'm relaxing!!
Shelly
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in Him. Psalm 34:8
It was a Christian family. A little girl was standing next to her grief-stricken mother, whose face was stained with tears over the sudden loss of a loved one. Putting her arm tenderly around her mother, the little one said with all the simplicity of her childlike faith: "Mommy, why don’t you try Jesus?"
Could any words have been more fitting? How often, when a person has been surrounded by problems and perplexities, have we heard him say: "I’ve tried everything—but nothing helped"?
How often have you and I thought or said the very same thing: "I’ve tried everything, but …"?
Everything but Jesus! Yet it is He who stands at every crisis point of our life! He stands with open arms and says: " "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” King David once exclaimed: "O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in Him."
Nor are we to turn to Jesus as our last resort. In every changing scene of life, we are to remember: He "is a very present help in trouble" Psalm 46:1.
Try Him! You will not be disappointed.
Pastor Hersch
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)