Mike's Daily Blog: March, 2010
In the Blink of an Eye Ministries, Inc.
Providing families care, comfort and solutions...
PO Box 123
Woodbine, Md 21797
Providing families care, comfort and solutions...
PO Box 123
Woodbine, Md 21797
March 11, 2010 Inherit the Riches by John Michael Weber There is something to be said, at least I am told That life is not measured by riches and gold Gold doesn’t comfort you when it gets cold And riches don’t make you younger when you get old. If you look in the Bible it thus says it to be so The Lord’s words and ways are where a man surely must go Two masters cannot be served choose God or the dough As for me and my house, its the Lord’s seeds I will sew. Nothing wrong with money, be nice to have more As long as I worship God not money, I will be OK for sure. For a rich man struggles to get through a Heaven held door But the meek will inherit all needs and wants much, so much more. There is something to be said, I know it’s true If you follow the Lord then any struggle you’ll get through So when the money might run somewhat short of the due Remember the things, all things, the strength of Christ pulls you through. Bible Says Matthew 6:24-25 24"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. 25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? March 10, 2010 Thought for Today When I take a moment, just a moment, to reflect on the Blessings in my life, it only takes a moment to realize, there are not enough moments in the day to count all the Blessings. I can count my problems on my fingers, and that’s really cool since I only have five of them. Bible Says Deuteronomy 28:1-3 1 If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. 2 All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: 3 You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. Prayer Request: Please pray for my “Favorite Niece” Megan. She goes today for a liver biopsy. They are expecting and hoping to find that her body is rejecting her liver, This would be good news, for then the rejection meds can be changed or adjusted. March 9, 2010 Thought for Today Spring is such a relief. Is it not true that the harder the winter may be, the greater the gratitude when it gives way to spring? Even for the junkie on the streets, spring can be an awakening of the heart. For in the budding of the trees, the singing of the birds and the warmth of the sun, hope springs. Bible Says Colossians 1:4-6 4because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints— 5the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel 6that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth. March 8, 2010 Thought for Today As a Christian, I can tolerate us AND them. What is intolerable, to me, is us AGAINST them. Bible Says Leviticus 19:18 18 " 'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.” March 5, 2010 Thought for Today Sittin’ in Watter’s Road Church of Christ in Pasadena, Texas one day, I had a magnamous epiphany! It suddenly occurred to me that my faith, my belief, my desire to be close to God, would someday be completely fulfilled. More simply put, out of the wild blue, Heaven became real! Since that day, when the hardest of times befell me and best believe they did, I had the comfort that this is but a minute time frame of my eternal journey and that this bad event will pass. And heaven waits. Bible Says 2 Corinthians 5:1-5 Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, 3because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. March 4, 2010 Thought for Today “So we the people have identified these 7 as deadly sins, not because we think they are deadly in Gods eyes, but because when living a life that embraces the 7 dreadful ways of living we will ultimately bring our selves to our own spiritual death.” Excerpt from “The Un- Holy Trinity, Me Myself and I." Bible Says James 4:17 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. March 3, 2010 And the Clown by John Michael Weber And the rains and winds and sun beat down And it seemed as if they focused on this one lonely clown And all the lonely little clown could do was hang his head and frown And just when he thought that it couldn’t be worse He swore to the heavens that he had been cursed And he was beaten down now with the heaviest of snow as down the lonely old road he traversed. And he thought of the Bible and he thought about Job And he wondered if there would be relief anywhere on the globe But relief came not for he found himself there, no matter what direction he probed. The common denominator if you haven’t figured it out Was the clown himself filled with fear, anger and doubt And I bet you could tell him, I bet you could lead him on the one and only way out. But the clown who once wore such a joyful smile Kept up his frowning mile after mile And wouldn’t you think he’d be so sad so tired and need to sit down for at least a little while. Then one day the snow did finally stop And the rain was suddenly stopped on a drop And the sun quit burning till he thought he would most assuredly swell up and pop. It was then and only then that he finally sat And took in his surroundings wondering where he was at In one direction were mountains in the other the land flat. He thought perhaps this is where he should be After all he had traveled every road, hilltop and lee And he looked to the heavens and with one look, that’s all, he felt at last he was free. The clown was still there and really nothing had changed The weather was better but the world had not been rearranged He thought perhaps, from God, he had himself become estranged. The once miserable lonely clown with a frown Was now in the process of turning his frown upside down He laughed at himself, oh how foolishly in self pity he had drowned. He got up, this clown and he was saddened no more He was determined to share his good news to villages , townships and the wayfaring shores He knew not how he came to get the good news, perhaps by being beaten by his sweat, tears and sores. Then he thought it was God that saved him, not thought, he knew And he knew now what to do on those days he became blue Just look up to the heavens and wait just a moment, wait, and God’ s light will shine through. Bible Says Job 3:24-26 24 For sighing comes to me instead of food; my groans pour out like water. 25 What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. 26 I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil." Bible Also Says Job 42:12-17 12 The LORD blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. 13 And he also had seven sons and three daughters. 14 The first daughter he named Jemimah, the second Keziah and the third Keren-Happuch. 15 Nowhere in all the land were there found women as beautiful as Job's daughters, and their father granted them an inheritance along with their brothers. 16 After this, Job lived a hundred and forty years; he saw his children and their children to the fourth generation. 17 And so he died, old and full of years. March 2, 2010 Thought for Today Working as an addictions counselor is the only job I have ever had where I pray that what my experience and instincts tell me are wrong. Bible Says Isaiah 7:15-16 15 He will eat curds and honey when he knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right. 16 But before the boy knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right, the land of the two kings you dread will be laid waste. March 1, 2010 Thought for Today One has to be made aware of a character defect in order to improve upon their character. One does not have to be aware of a defect to worsen their character. When a character defect is identified, God can be asked to help remove the flaw. When unidentified, God still knows it exists but he is patient in waiting for you to recognize your imperfection. Thank God for the 12 Steps! Bible Says Romans 5:3-5 3Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. February 26, 2010 Thought for Today Anyone like me ever felt goose-bumps at a sporting event when the National Anthem was played? Anyone like me that has ever been moved to tears of joy at a wedding or birth and tears of sadness at the funeral of a loved one? Anyone like me laughed out loud so true the laughter that it almost hurt? Anyone like me wonder how this all comes about? Well I submit it is the Holy Spirit and he lives! Bible Says Matthew 18:20 20For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." February 25, 2010 Thought for Today The moment you think you got it all figured out, God reminds you no uncertain terms, you don’t! Bible Says 1 Corinthians 1:20 20Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? And Then I Thought… Once upon a time I was way too intelligent to buy into getting sober and AA and Church and foolish things like that. I am so grateful God dumbed me up enough to listen to Him. February 24, 2010 What I Want I wanna be different But not completely off the mainstream I wanna help others But I want to want to be unseen I wanna be famous If that could happen somehow As long as I face God when I’m taking a bow. I’d like to make a difference And I don’t think a small difference will do So many have invested in me So many prayed my days through I’d like to believe There is hope for mankind And we can join together Lest we completely unwind. Above all and everything I wish others could see How much I love God And how deeply He touched me I’d like to share Every beat of my heart It would not be enough But it might be a start. I wanna be different Cause different’s OK I wanna be always satisfied with me At the end of the day If I want all this for me Then I want it for you too We can make difference Best believe that is true. Bible Says Jeremiah 7:5-7 If you really change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly, 6 if you do not oppress the alien, the fatherless or the widow and do not shed innocent blood in this place, and if you do not follow other gods to your own harm, 7 then I will let you live in this place, in the land I gave your forefathers forever and ever. February 23, 2010 Thought for Today When I was little I was told that there is nothing to be afraid of in the dark. When I get older I was told to be home before dark because it is dangerous to be out alone. Now, I fear not the darkness, because I carry a light inside me. Bible Says 1 John 1:6-7 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. Prayer Request From Lucinda: Please pray for Chad, his mom says he appreciates all prayers as he fights to stay clean and sober February 22, 2010 Thought for Today I watched little kids at church yesterday and that made my heart feel warm A teenager had a great idea on how to teach the Bible and that gave me hope. I observed a teacher that knew he had done well with the youth and that made me happy for him. Then I heard someone on the radio talking about the growth of Atheism and that made me sad for them. for how can I be made to react with warmth and hope and love if not for a compassionate Creator that knew these things we would assuredly need. Just my opinion… Bible Says Psalm 116:4-6 4 Then I called on the name of the LORD : "O LORD, save me!" 5 The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. 6 The LORD protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me. Prayer Request Please join us in prayer for my friend Jenny’s brother Donald. Pray for him in his time of need. Prayer Update: Jeremy is to be released from Texas Children’s Hospital in Texas. Thank all of you for your prayers, they most obviously worked. Please continue to pray for young Jeremy’s complete return to health. February 19, 2010 Thought for the Day If you can bring to mind the most joyous, glorious day of your life and multiply it by infinity, then perhaps you are standing on the first step of the stairway to Heaven. Bible Says Revelation 4:1-2 1After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." 2At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. February 18, 2010 Thought for Today Fear of tomorrow pretty much guarantees a bad today. Bible Says Matthew 6:33-34 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. February 17, 2010 Thought for Today For me, to say “at least” is the beginning of potentially serious compromises. When I first quit drugs and alcohol, “at least” worked during the childlike growth of being a newcomer in AA. Now to say “at least” means that I am becoming complacent in some area of my growth. I cannot go through the day being the same self-centered, old self and then tell God, “Well at least I didn’t drink.” Bible Says James 3:1-17 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. 17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness. Prayer Request: Please pray for Sam and his family. Sam is a young man struggling between getting off drugs and the undeniable grip they hold on him. February 16, 2010 Thought for Today A horse is like a mirror of me, if I show fear, fear is what comes back, if I show anger, then anger will be reflected back to me, if I show kindness and love, then the horse shines kindness and love back on me. Come to think of it, people are like that too. Bible Says Galatians 5:22-23 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. February 15, 2010 The Altar by John Michael Weber Take all your troubles, cares and woes And leave them on the Altar God will deal with each one of them Believe it, in His time He never falters. Why carry on your heart such troubles Heavy laden and oh so stressful When you can give them up to God And He makes your path more restful. Jesus tells us to share His yoke For the weight of His is light And when those troubles and trials are shared, You can face the wrongs and make them right. Lay them down and give them up Let them go and let God Tell the Lord you need His help And you’ll receive his Holy nod. And worry not if when you leave You leave not empty handed For the Lord may take your troubles And give you someone else’s you can lend a hand in. And Praise the Lord and give Him thanks At the altar on bended knees And remember faith, love and hope For our journey is easy when we remember these. Bible Says Matthew 11:29-30 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. February 12, 2010 Thought for Today Are we “Sinner’s in the hands of an angry God?” If we are I am in deep trouble. Kinda like the New Testament and the Truth that tells me Jesus died and rose for our sins. I still try not to sin and if I fear God it is out of respect, not the fear of being cast into Hell. Bible Says Old Testament Isaiah 13:9 See, the day of the LORD is coming —a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger— to make the land desolate and destroy the sinners within it. New Testament John 3:16 16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. February 11, 2010 Thought for Today My last day of heroin abuse ended in the back seat of a broken down Pontiac Grand Am. It was November 18, 2001 and it was cold, but it wasn’t a blizzard. I felt stuck but the roads were clear. I felt so totally isolated from the world and I believe it was the longest night of my life. The car was parked in an alley in a neighborhood where I could have easily been killed and shortened that long night, but killed I was not. God put in my head a memory of sitting in my dad’s lap and him saying, “Someday when you grow up and you’re at war in a foxhole or the world just seems empty, remember sitting here…” I was at war, though the war I waged was with me. I wonder if my dad really thought I would remember that night. At any rate, the power of the Blizzard of 2010 has given me much time to reflect on just how Blessed I am. Thank God for Jesus and thank God for Dad. Bible Says 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. February 10, 2010 On This Day in History It was on this day in history in 60AD, that the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked at Malta. Luke wrote of this in the book of Acts, Chapter 27. I had found this historical date by asking my computer “What happened on this day in Christian history?” That led me to a few websites all confirming the shipwreck of Paul, which then let me to the Bible and into Acts I dove. I use this as my thought for today, but also as encouragement to dig into God’s WORD, for just when you think you know enough, you find something you did not know. For instance, did you know that upon being beached at Malta, in an effort to warm himself Paul reached over a camp fire of sorts and a poisonous Viper bit his hand and hung there. The rest of the crew waited for him to swell up and die and when he didn’t, others came and were cured of different ailments. Check out Acts, Chapter 27, it is the stuff movies are made of. Bible Says Acts 27:22-26 “But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' 25So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. 26Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island." February 9, 2010 Note from God Mike, Need I remind you that some of my children like cold weather? Need I remind you that the youngest of my children get great joy from snow? Need I remind you that I don’t change the weather because it is inconvenient for you? Need I remind you, that I love you and all my children? Spring is not far away my son and summer and the heat that you love and some of my children do not, will follow. Have a good day; I have a reason for everything. God God’s Word Psalm 68:4-5 Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds his name is the LORD— and rejoice before him. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. February 8, 2010 Thought for Today Kind of difficult this year to get wrapped around the idea of Global Warming, is it not? Then, I am not schooled enough on the subject to debate. A lot of smart people have spent a lot of money in their effort to make Global Warming a reality and just as much has been spent to make it a myth. All I know is it has been cold in places it usually is not this year. Perhaps God is reminding us that it is He who controls the Earth’s thermostat. Bible Says 1 Corinthians 1:18-20 18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." 20Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? February 5, 2010 What if I What if I were put to the test And that test was so severe Would I be able to stand the trial Would I cave in with the fear? What if I lived back then In the days of Roman soldiers Would I be able to stand for Christ While eminent death was on my shoulders? What if I had a choice That choice was to live or die Would I have the faith to follow through Or would I save myself and lie? What if I could talk to God About doubting on occasion Would He answer me and comfort me Could I hear the answer with no evasion? I think that is what I’ll do Just hit my knees and pray And ask the Lord that if tough decisions occur That He be there to lead the way. I’d like to think time to time That if push ever came to shove I would have the strength to stand on faith And show my Lord every bit and all my love. John Michael Weber Bible Says Luke 21:17-18 All men will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish.” February 4, 2010 Thought for Today Lay down your worries Lay them down their weight is way too much Shed off the burdens of life All the daily woes of work and bills and such Take a break on the uphill The road you’re on is wrong, but it’s not too late Lay everything at the foot of the Cross And God will make your path narrow and straight. Lay it all down You carried troubles way too long Lay it all down Lift your heart to a heavenly song Lay it all down Jesus came to ease the load Lay it all down The journey to Christ is a wonderful road. Amen and Amen Makes me wanna sing the chorus over and over again Amen and Praise our Holy Christ Sing it once with your heart and then Sing it out loud twice and louder sing it thrice! Bible Says Matthew 11:29-30 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Prayer Update from Claire: Update from my mom's best friend who just returned from Haiti.... thanks for all the prayers. Dear Family and Friends, Paul and I, as you might already know, have just returned from Haiti and experienced the horrors of the earthquake. We also had the privilege of being a part of Fr. Rick Frechette's corporal works of mercy that he goes about going as Fr.( now St) Damien did in Molokai with the Lepers. Fr. Rick is a Passionist Priest who saw the need to treat illnesses of the children and asked his order to send him to Med school; he is now a doctor who is treating those children. Added to that are the recently wounded of all ages who are carried into his hospital. If you can help or if you can't and you know someone who is able to help, go to NPH.org, to get the info necessary. Another address: 8980 SW 56th St. Miami, Fl. 33165 February 3, 2010 Thought for Today On those days when my faith is strong, I cannot wait to be in heaven. Death is but a gateway to my eternal home. Death I fear not. I do fear not doing all that God wants me to while I am here on earth. I don’t want to get “home” and have God ask me, “Why didn’t you do what I was asking you to do?” So on those days when my faith might be less than fortified, I must keep my eyes on Jesus who intern fortifies my faith, which in turn makes me anxious to be with Him in heaven, which in turn allows me to get on with what I think God is asking me to do. Bible Says Matthew 14:29-31 29"Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" 31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" Speaking of Faith… Prayer Warriors, I am calling on you to lift Jeremy up in your prayers once again. He is still undergoing chemo in Texas Children’s Hospital. He is back in the ICU and the doctor’s don’t seem too optimistic. Also lift up Gene, Jeremy’s dad and Twanya as they are at the hospital 24/7. Please pray for Sam, who is in rehab again. Pray that God touches his heart the way he has touched so many addicts and that he comes out ready to life in a new direction. Pray for his parents and their continued strength on this difficult journey. February 2, 2010 Thought for Today I learned very early that when it comes to alcohol, it is quantity not quality that makes the difference. Take the worst scotch and after three shots it becomes Chivas Regal. I am pretty sure that is alcoholic thinking, which makes sense because I am an alcoholic and I don’t recall ever drinking because I enjoyed the taste. I drank simply because I needed the effect. Bible Says Proverbs 23:29-31 29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. 31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! Quotable: William Shakespeare had this to say about alcohol: “provokes the desire but takes away the performance…” Prayer request from a Mother: Thank you for including me in your e-mails God Bless you. I will attend Yes My child next Monday. I have not been since before Thanksgiving. My 21 year old Daughter went missing last mo. for 14 days and I have her 27 mo. old son. Please pray that the lord will put people in her path ~~ Please pray that my painful 43 year old body and wary mind can do what is always best for her child and my Grandson. Thank you! See you next Monday hopefully February 1, 2010 Needle by John Michael Weber You just can’t put the needle down Cause you need to stop the pain Your hand is shaking badly And you can’t find a vein. Parents words echo loudly Inside your hollow brain Know you should go to rehab But you can’t stop the train. A scarlet drop of blood Oh another shirt just got a stain If anyone could see the real you They’d know you are insane. The needle finds its mark Another track of utter shame As the plunger slowly drives home Relief so sweet it can’t be named. A meaningless smile forms On your rapidly aging face For a moment you escape All the pain and all disgrace. No one seems to understand How you can live in misery You don’t understand How they can see what you don’t see. A little voice of a little child Cries’ out deep in recess of your mind. A voice you vaguely recall From a happier place and better time. Rest your head against the cold wall Of a basement in a house that used to be Trying to place rhyme and reason You come up short of sanity. Shake your head and rise up slowly Stand on the weakness of your knees Fall down on the cold floor, needle’s tightly in your hand Cry out in whimper, Oh God please help me, please. Bible Says Job 14:22 “He feels but the pain of his own body and mourns only for himself." January 29, 2010 Thought for Today The more I talk to parents of teens struggling with drugs, the more I realize what havoc, chaos and pain I put on my parents. The sad thing is that even if I knew that back then, it probably would not have gotten me off the path of destruction I was on. Bible Says Psalm 30:2-3 2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. 3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit. Prayers: Please pray for Michelle’s aunt Bobbie, she is critical and currently in the hospital with a number of problems. Continued prayers for Charlotte and her husband as they try and get a grip on addiction of their son. January 28, 2010 Thought for Today Listen to your heart in matters of the mind. Listen to your mind in matters of the heart. Bible Says Psalm 26:2-3 2 Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; 3 for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth. January 27, 2010 Thought for Today I struggle not against the dark alleys of Baltimore I struggle against the dark alleys of my mind. I fear not using drugs I fear the thoughts that lead me there. Bible Says Ephesians 6:12-13 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Prayers: Please pray for Charlotte that her son’s heart be touched by God and that the ties of addiction that bind him be released. January 26, 2010 Thought for Today If I want to, just for a moment, recapture the excitement I felt as a new Christian, I start the morning with Rich Mullins and “Awesome God” playing in my headphones. I did that this morning, so for today I am a reborn, reborn Christian! Our God is truly an Awesome God! Bible Says Psalm 47:1-2 1 Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. 2 How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! Prayers: Young Jeremy is back in intensive care at Texas Children’s Hospital in Texas; please pray for the healing hands of God for this young man. January 25, 2010 Thought for Today I use the word “grace” all the time. “Mercy” I don’t hear as often. “Mercy implies compassion that fordoes punishment even though justice demands it.” I am so glad that God showed me mercy rather that justice. Bible Says Exodus 33: 19 19 And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. Prayers: Please pray for my cousin Debra, that she finds employment in Jackson, Mississippi that she may be closer to her family. Please pray for parents everywhere that have teens in the midst of substance abuse. January 22, 2010 Thought for Today When I was young I played football for the school. I knew full well that if I desired to play on game day, I had to show up and practice all week. When I first came to Christ and started going to Church on Sunday, I always felt like I was sitting on the bench. It occurred to me, if I wanted to be on God’s team, I would have to show up and practice all week. Now I seem to always be saying, “Put me in God!” Bible Says 1 Peter 4:12-13 12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. Then I Thought I serve the Lord out of respect for His love, honor and awesome glory. I do not fear the possibility of hell; I do fear missing out on the glorious Kingdom that awaits. Prayers: Please keep the men of the Sober Homes of the Weber Addictions Group in your prayers. Pray for those who have recently gone out and those who stay and are striving for success. Continued prayers for Elsa and her family, for Dianne, for Lisa and her boys, for Jenn and good health, for Lucinda and her quest, for Christian and his struggle with addiction, for Nanna and employment as well as quick resolve with personal matters, for Lindsey and Eddie for employment and a healthy baby. Please pray for all those who went to bed last night with desperate hearts. January 21, 2009 Thought for Today I talked to God this morning I do that every day Sometimes He makes it clear What He has to say Sometimes He leaves me room To think things through myself Sometimes He simply leads me To my Bible on the shelf. Sometimes he speaks through emails Sometimes through someone’s cell Sometimes He contacts me through Someone just wishing me well. I talked to God today I’m bettin’ you did too And I would not be surprised If you talk to Him the whole day through. Bible Says Genesis 35:13-15 13 Then God went up from him at the place where he had talked with him. 14 Jacob set up a stone pillar at the place where God had talked with him, and he poured out a drink offering on it; he also poured oil on it. 15 Jacob called the place where God had talked with him Bethel. Today’s Prayer Request From Michelle in Texas: Please add Deborah Theriot Eymard to the prayer list. She is in the hospital in Conroe Texas. Haiti: Ongoing prayers for the rescue teams and victims in Haiti. Prayer for Julio who lost his job after many years and has an interview today. He has been unemployed since December 22, 2009. January 20, 2010 Thought for Today The measure of a man is not how tough he is physically or how many fights he has won by beating up another man. Ney, the better measure is how many people a man has helped up after they have been beaten down. When I was weak I would stand opposed and suffered many blows. With God I can walk away and live to help someone another day. Bible Says Matthew 5:38-40 38"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.'[a] 39But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. January 19, 2010 Thought for Today If I start the day with a negative attitude and the day turns bad, I have just amplified the negativity and if the day turns good I run the risk of missing a great day. If I start the day with a positive attitude and the day turns bad, I have lessened the negative spin and if the day turns good I have amplified a good day into a great one! Better, I think, to start out positive. Bible Says Ephesians 4:22-24 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. January 18, 2010 Soldier in the Army of the Lord Back when I was enlisted A soldier I became Never disobey an order Never leave your post unless other orders came. When a Sergeant told you so You dare not disagree You honor, trust and obey When you serve the land of the free. You get them coming at you You may not agree nor understand You only do what is told to you And you do it the very best you can. Now I am a soldier In the Army of the Lord Jesus is Commander and Chief And no request from him will be ignored. I carry no weapon I pick up the Cross and follow where I’m led The Bible is my sword I enter the valley’s with no fear and no dread. I am a soldier I serve with honor God’s Holy Kingdom I have no rank, no promotions But at God’s pleasure I receive His freedom. There is no other Army No one can stand opposed For my Commander is my Creator And His door is always open, never is it closed. Left, right, left, right The enemy runs when I sing Left, right, left, right I salute you my Lord, My Commander, my King! Quotable and Notable: Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends. And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal." Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer request: For my mother Arlene, who lost her father on Friday. He died painlessly and peacefully after a long and fulfilling life. God Bless him, Arlene and her family in their loss. January 15, 2010 Thought for Today One can own the finest car and the auto looks so fine Sitting in the driveway all polished up it shines. Beneath the hood, horses wait to be unbridled and unreigned But stand still forever they must do unless they be fed octane. The pulpit stands empty this Sunday and the congregation wonders why When the news of their great preacher’s illness comes it causes them to sigh Sunday after Sunday he poured out the gifts of his spirit true All week long he’d hold studies and meetings and quickly the week was through. Not once did the preacher have a chance or take it better said To feed his own spirit with truth so that his light could be shed So like the finest car that needs gasoline to run We all need to be fed God’s WORD lest we become undone. Bible Says Deuteronomy 8:3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD January 14, 2009 Thought for Today Financially, I am so broke I cannot pay attention. Spiritually, I am rich beyond my wildest dreams and enjoy spreading that spiritual wealth that comes from investing in the WORD of God. Bible Says Ephesians 2:6-8 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— January 13, 2010 Thought for Today I hear stories all the time and have been involved a few times, when being pulled over by the police, or they knock at a suspect’s door and it warrants as many as three or four police cars. People are always amazed at the number of police dispatched to arrest one person. Thinking of this I recall the arrest of Jesus. One translation of John says that a Roman “cohort” along with the priests and officers were on hand to arrest Jesus. A “cohort” was a word used for a detachment of 600 soldiers. This is quite a hoard sent to arrest the Prince of Peace. So when I hear of a couple of those who “protect and serve” teaming up on a criminal, it doesn’t seem like overkill. Bible Says John 18:2-4 2Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples. 3Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, "Whom do you seek?" In Closing: I am thinking that SWAT Teams are nothing really cutting edge in law enforcement after all. January 12, 2010 Thought for Today Every day is like training for the Superbowl. My coach, God, gives me the plays to work on and even gives me suggestions on the best way to run them. I make mistakes and He takes me aside and gives me encouragement and the desire to drive on and improve. He, on occasion, puts me on the bench to rest or to rethink what I might be doing wrong. One thing I know is that I am on a winning team for with God as the coach, we cannot lose. Bible Says Romans 8:30-32 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? January 11, 1010 Thought for Today I love a church adorned with Christian relics on the wall With lighting that embraces you and friendly smiles in the halls I love angelic choruses and even sing along Loud voices lifted to the Lord even when my key is wrong. I also love the humble churches which border city slums I love to meet and mingle with the junkies and the bums No music accompanies these hallowed halls of the poor But the melody of Gospel hymns can be heard through broken doors. “In my Father’s house there are many mansions…” Jesus tells us true And I hope to visit many churches before my earthly time is through. Sometimes I need to hear God’s Word and other’s He wants me to share Whether a church is rich or poor you can be sure that God is always there. So I think it is not the trappings that make a church a haven I think to enter God’s temples you can be clean cut or unshaven For it is not the outsides that link us to our Lord, our Redeemer, our loving Savior It is the love for one another we can feel when we practice Christ- like behavior. In closing I would add this one opinion that I carry Churches are a gift from God and I should never tarry For from the time we hit the streets and go on about our day It is we that are the church in what we do or do not do and in all the things we say. Bible Says Matthew 18-19 18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." January 8, 2010 Thought for Today Most days I come home a little tired. Some days I come home really tired. I am tired these days because I try to spend the day doing the best work I can do. I am grateful that I have a job that I can try and do the best I can do. I am grateful that I have a comfortable place to come home to that I may unwind from the day and relax. I am grateful that I am no longer worn out at the end of the day with no place to go and only the hope of another shot to get a few moments of chemically induced peaceful misery. I am grateful to the Lord my God for breaking the chains that bound me. Bible Says Colossians 3:15-17 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. January 7, 2010 Thought for Today I adore the quiet solitude of morning I love beginning with God’s Holy word It is winter and its cold that the day is adorning But today I chanced to hear the singing of a bird. So I pondered why this bird would be obliged to sing It is not the time one hears nature’s melodies I thought perhaps this is a bird that wished not to wait for spring And he saw fit to sing to God in a winters morning harmony. Perhaps it was prophetic, a message that I should be aware Don’t wait until the coldness is gone and spring makes it’s way That I should sing now to the Lord without a care And praise shall I sing this very day. Bible Says Psalm 5:11 11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Prayer Request: From Bridget, please pray for her husband Larry who will undergo surgery today. January 6, 2010 Thought for Today When I watch the news and look inside myself, it gives me pause and I think, “Are we to believe that we cannot make God angry?” I know I have a loving God, but just how much will it take before He gets mad and decides we need a little wrath as a reminder? Do I want to witness His anger? I think not. Therefore it is in my best interest to not take for granted that God is a forgiving God, which He is, but that does not give me carte blanche to do anything I want with the thought, “Oh well, I’m forgiven.” Bible Says Deuteronomy 32:35 35 It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them." Prayer Requests: Please pray for Courtney in Texas, she is a sister to my daughters and is struggling with pet issues. I ask for you prayer warriors that have huge hearts for your pets, to pray for Courtney and her dog Charlotte, that they get a favorable outcome with another dog they have found. Please pray for Elsa in Texas, who has become a part of the IBE family over the last few years. She asks for prayers for her daughter and her son-in-law who is still struggling with addiction. Finally, pray for Amy in Maryland, below is her request: I could really use each of your prayers at this time. Yesterday, I was laid off from CTI. As some of you know, I worked there for about 8 years right out of college and left to follow a dream that didn't work out....and went back about 9 months ago. I feel like I grew up at CTI...so it was a very emotional day for me yesterday. But I know that God is good and I know that He is looking out for me. But some prayers from my fellow prayer warriors couldn't hurt, right? Please pray that He would direct my next steps and I would end up just where He wants me to be. Much love, Amy January 5, 2010 Thought for Today The best I can do is the best I can do. The discernment of whether or not I did my best, is between me and God. Bible Says Isaiah 1:17 Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. January 4, 2010 Thought for Today In my first footsteps with God, it was all about, “What can He do for me?” At some point that changed and has become, “How can I serve Him?” Bible Says Micah 6:8 “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Sometimes Sometimes God makes it sound simple, does He not? December 30, 2009 Thought for Today New Year’s Eve is the one day of the year when alcoholics stay home for fear of all the drunk drivers. Bible Says Psalm 107:27-28 27 They reeled and staggered like drunken men; they were at their wits' end. 28 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. December 29, 2009 Thought for Today New Year’s Day can be a lot like recovery. You can look back at the previous year and take an honest inventory of the things on which you can improve and leave behind the things that didn’t work. It is an opportunity to wipe the slate clean and start anew. New Year’s Eve, however, can be a lot like rock bottom, if one is not careful. Bible Says Ephesians 4:22-24 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. December 28, 2009 From: "The Un-Holy Trinity Upon entry to the rehab portion of my Perry Point experience, I had the feeling of being sanctioned to a mental ward and the idea that I was never going to be released. I got checked in, was given something non-narcotic to keep my convulsions to, what is perceived by the medical community as, a tolerable minimum and laid in a room to be sick. And sick I was. Then, some, somebody who worked there, had the unmitigated gall to interrupt my misery and say, “Get up, time for a meeting.” I was livid. That reality I was dodging all my life caught up with me at Perry Point and I must say, it was not the least bit pleasant in its arrival. One of the major challenges in getting sober is dealing with, what you perceive as a painful existence, without the pain medication you so dearly desired. Imagine a wonderful dream where you are on a beach with the love of your life, watching your two adolescents playing in the sand castle you helped them build. You think, what a wonderful day and look at your partner as if to say, “It don’t get no better than this,” then you wake up from this dream to your reality and that is a State Penitentiary. That is what it is like when reality creeps into the fantasy of the life you created and the thought that follows the starkness of it all is, “There is no relief.” I graduated, so to speak, from Perry Point and stepped into a world I truly knew nothing about. I had spent not just most of my days in some kind of mind altering state, but every day since I was 14 years old, escaping from the world I had just stepped into at 34 years of age. So, as they teach in AA, I was a 14 year old in a 34 year old body. To quote a line of Alice Cooper’s song, “Eighteen”, I had, “a baby’s brain and an old man’s heart…” My recovery journey was officially underway. December 25, 2009 Merry Christmas to All! December 23, 2009 Thought for Today My challenge, to myself, is to look past the mask of evil and into the heart of good. Bible Says Proverbs 3:3-4 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Prayer Update I have been a little slow on this and for that you have my apologies. I wish to thank you, on behalf of Gene, Twanya and Jeremy for all your prayers. Jeremy is still at Texas Children’s Hospital but last Saturday morning he was sitting up, eating breakfast and chatting to his friends on the phone. He has a long treatment road, but no doubt God pulled him through the darkside of illness and into the light. Thanks Warriors. December 22, 2009 Thought for Today Before I was a Christian I always felt a little south of being a “part of” during this time of year. Getting together with families was heart-warming but there was a piece of the puzzle missing and a feeling of sadness, in a sense. Maybe God was working on me even then. On second thought, not maybe, definitely. Now that I feel more complete at Christmas time and have a true understanding, I feel for those who don’t, because many (not everyone) are probably like me and all the family and gifts in the world don’t make the puzzle complete. Bible Says John 1:1-5 The Word Became Flesh 1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning. 3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it. My Hope, My Prayer I hope and pray that for anyone anywhere, no matter what you believe, that you have a Christmas/Holiday season that is complete and lacking in nothing. December 18, 2009 Thought for Today I was blessed with the honor, privilege and duty to speak with 40+ men and women at Cenikor last night. Cenikor is a recovery community where they leave all the negatives at the door as part of the behavioral change they are committed to making in their lives over a two year long process. The place was decorated wonderfully, by the residents and the folks were very receptive. One of those rare times when I could speak freely about addiction and Jesus and no one left the room or threatened law suits. God is good to me, no doubt because I might have said something that helped someone and it definitely helped me. I prayed for the words to be His and the voice be mine. Works every time! Bible Says Proverbs 8:33-35 33 Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. 34 Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. 35 For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. December 17, 2009 Mary and Elizabeth Elizabeth was with child Though she was somewhat old Zechariah was speechless When of his wife’s condition he was told. Mary was her cousin Much younger was Mary than she And when they saw each other Liz’s baby jumped with glee These women would be very proud Of both their sons for sure Though John the Baptist was unkempt Jesus was completely pure. Elizabeth’s child spread the word Of the one who would come to save Mary’s child knew his fate But he was peaceful, wise and brave. Their children met up when they were grown They were in the Jordan river John had come to baptize Jesus And Jesus had come to deliver. To mother’s here and mother’s there And to speechless father’s too Your children just might make you proud Before their journeys through. Bible says Luke 1:39-40 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord." December 16, 2009 Thought for Today My daughters have beautiful smiles. When they were little girls they warmed my heart. Now they are grown women and that warmth is not lost for their smiles, to me, are still the smiles of little girls. Makes me wonder how warm Joseph and Mary felt the first time their child smiled. Just guessing, but I am bettin’ there was a lot of warmth going on there. Bible Says Luke 2:13-14 13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." Just So Ya Know: I used Bible gateway and scanned the NIV trying to find verses that contained the world “smile”, oddly I only found three. Stranger still, they were all in the book of Job. December 15, 2009 Thought for Today I’m leaving, on a jet plane It’s Christmas time I must be insane Carry on baggage should be outlawed To get to a seat you nearly get mauled But I am leaving, but I will arrive In Texas if the Lord gets me there alive Southwest Air stewards are out of work comics As they show you humor while showing the bag in which to vomit. And the peanuts are not much of a meal But the coffee’s not bad and the flight price is a steal. And complain I do but I check my gratitude Not easy to do at such high flying altitudes. But I am leaving on a jet plane For to see my loving daughters and I hope it don’t rain. Often thought I would like to have lived way back when Wagons traversed the country, but then I think again. In three short hours I travel the land Back then three months on a wagon before in Texas I’d stand. So bring on the luggage all the hustle and bustle Fly me home to the land where cattle’s still rustled. Tis’ the Lone Star, I wish to behold And leave this north land where the weather’s so cold. I am flying Southwest, hope all the engines are tweaked I’ll enjoy all of my vacation except that… it’s only a week! Bible Says 1 Corinthians 16:5-7 5After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you—for I will be going through Macedonia. 6Perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go. 7I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. December 14, 2009 Mike, I have a reason for all things. Stay with me, for any storm you may face now, is but a cake walk compared to some of your previous journeys. God Bible Says: Proverbs 3:5-6 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Prayers: Please pray for Kathryn. She is a young lady in North Carolina who was recently in a car wreck. She is fine physically but faces the trials and tribulations that come with driving under the influence. Pray for her deliverance from drugs and alcohol. Update: Your prayers are working wonders. Jeremy is still in Texas Children’ s Hospital but is improving. He has a long road of chemo in front of him, but he is young and strong and gaining his senses back. Pray for continued healing. December 11, 2009 Thought for Today “Thy will be done…” That’s an easy thing to pray and sometimes a much harder prayer to accept. I find I have to not just turn a situation over to God’s will, but to also ask Him to make me ok with the outcome. Bible Says John 11:35-37 35Jesus wept. 36Then the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" 37But some of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?" Prayer: Keep praying for Jeremy. Also pray for Twanya and Gene who have both been at Texas Children’s since this ordeal began, meaning they have both been unable to work. Tina if you get an update can I call on you to send it to “reply all”, please. December 10, 2009 Thought for Today If I don’t try and practice humility, God always finds a way to humble me. Bible Says Proverbs 11:2 2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 18:12 12 Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. James 3:13 13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. December 9, 2009 A Star What amazing glory What wonders did occur From shepherds tending their sheep To wise men with gold, frankincense and myrrh. They followed a star and traveled so far To behold the new born Savior A journey led by the brightest of stars that guided them to Christ in his manger. They came to Bethlehem that night So many years ago And had no maps or compasses Just a star and it’s beautiful glow. I look each year at this time Up for the wonderous star And it warms my heart on cold, cold nights And I think it does so for others both near and afar. Merry Christmas my heart does sing When upon this star I gaze And it takes me all the way to Bethlehem And its wonders never cease to amaze. Bible Says Matthew 2:9-11 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. December 8, 2009 Thought for Today Looking at My Youth JMW Oh my heavens, oh my Lord another bad day leaves me restless and bored. I don’t wanna do this and I can’t do that I look at this sofa where all day I just sat. Nothing seems off, nothing really wrong Keep searchin’ the computer just to find the right song I’m only 17, things must get better My girlfriend quit me can’t seem to forget her. Been off illicit drugs, for nearly 7 days Now my parents breathe easy, but I’m in a haze. They say I am depressed, damned straight they’re right I am pressing on to another long, sleepless night I feel worthless, but I know that I’m not I had chills a minute ago now the room seems so hot. I hope what they say, will really come true That there is another side and I'll be better when I get through. I talk a little to God, not sure that he hears For each morning I awake to the same maddening fears. Anxiety maybe, depression I suppose I could be better with a little blow for my nose It takes away the fears, removes all my doubt Just don’t know how on earth I will make it without. I am told that this process does not come with ease Somebody help me, Mom help me, Dad help me, God help me please! Hey folks, not trying to be depressing , just sharing with you how I felt as a teenager and what I see in a lot of the youth I deal with these days…JMW Bible Says Psalm 88 12 Are your wonders known in the place of darkness, or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion? 13 But I cry to you for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you. 14 Why, O LORD, do you reject me and hide your face from me? 15 From my youth I have been afflicted and close to death; I have suffered your terrors and am in despair. 16 Your wrath has swept over me; your terrors have destroyed me. 17 All day long they surround me like a flood; they have completely engulfed me. 18 You have taken my companions and loved ones from me; the darkness is my closest friend. December 7,2009 Thought for Today If you are concerned about someone’s drinking or substance abuse, be they your own child, a child in your neighborhood or a friend or relative, I believe this should be brought to their attention. Most of them will say, “It’s none of you business!” To which I would have to beg to differ. It becomes my business every time someone drinks too much and gets behind the wheel of a car and puts my family at risk. It becomes my business when I know a drug addict is stealing from the neighborhood and running the risk of being shot or shooting someone. It is my business because God told me it is my business. Bible Says James 5:13-16 13Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. Deuteronomy 22: 1 If you see your brother's ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it but be sure to take it back to him. 2 If the brother does not live near you or if you do not know who he is, take it home with you and keep it until he comes looking for it. Then give it back to him. 3 Do the same if you find your brother's donkey or his cloak or anything he loses. Do not ignore it. 4 If you see your brother's donkey or his ox fallen on the road, do not ignore it. Help him get it to its feet. Finally I don’t believe our churches should be waiting on the community to ask for help. I believe the churches should be leading the charge to create a better environment and to do this, churches cannot shy away from those difficult problems. December 4, 2009 Bethlehem Journey 85 miles on the back of a donkey, Mary of Nazareth did ride Bad though that be, Joseph had it hard as He had to walk by her side. To Bethlehem they are summoned Their presence to be counted They were scorned by their village So on the mule Mary mounted. Over rugged terrain, through hot sun and rain Joseph and Mary did travel And they arrived to find no room at the inn And by now poor Mary’s unraveled. Then a kind farmer offered what he could And the best was a barn and a manger Still Mary and Joseph were grateful and pleased To be welcomed by this kindest of strangers. And so ended the journey and turned a new page in the life of Joseph and Mary If they knew what came in the chapters ahead No doubt they would have found it all quite scary. The Nativity we see near Christmas time Is so calm and serene, baby Jesus lies peacefully down Easy to forget the troubles and trials they faced On their journey to Bethlehem town. 21 days to Christmas Y’all! John Michael Weber Bible Says Luke 2:4-7 4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. December 3, 2009 Thought for Today One day when I was a youth minister, I tried to inspire the young people and personalize Jesus for them. I said, “Can you imagine, when Jesus was on earth, he was once your age?” A young lady named Cristina thought for a moment then chimed in, “True Mr. Weber, but he was never your age!” To which I could only smile and say, “Ouch!” Bible Says Luke 2 41Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. 42When he was twelve years old, they went up to the Feast, according to the custom. 43After the Feast was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. 44Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. 45When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. 46After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you." To Parents: You see folks, even Jesus drove his parents nuts on occasion. Prayer: Please warriors, help me pray for all the teenagers and their parents in IOP. These are great kids with troubled minds, ask the Lord to calm their souls. December 2, 2009 Thought for Today True Story: Not every day goes thumbs up for people, not even Christians. Monday night I prayed, and I thanked God for being good to me and my family. With my daughter’s graduation from college, my other daughters baby on the way in April, and of course Christmas, I was feeling stressed and forecasting troubled waters financially. Of late, I have been able to help my girls when they need this or that and don’ have the money. I have been able to keep my bills paid and even have a night out with friends now and again, so when I was talking with God, I wasn’t complaining, just asking to guide me through what I was sure to be the upcoming financial storm. I ended the prayer as always, “Thy will be done…” I awoke Tuesday morning to find that the IRS had levied all the money in my personal bank account, $890. Truth is, according to them, I am in arrears of a substantial amount and they want their money. Mind you, this is of my making and I thought the timing could not have been worse. I immediately got on the phone and worked out a payment plan with them but they said the money they levied will most likely be kept unless I can prove hardship. That is my task today, to prove that I don’t have any money, should be easy but they seem to be sticklers for details. I share this with you because I was wrong, the timing could have been worse. I share this with you because I immediately thought of Job. I share this with you because I thought of James. I share this with you because I am constantly telling my children they must take care of such matters as they present themselves or they will suffer consequences in the long run. I share this with you because it reminded me that I must remain teachable, that getting angry helps nothing and that God has a plan and I am anxious to see how this plan turns out. As we say in AA, “Thanks for letting me share.” Bible Says Job 2:10 Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. Prayer Request: Please keep in your prayers Jeremy. He is a 14 year old boy close to our family in Texas, somewhat of a brother to my daughters, and after three trips to the hospital he has still not been diagnosed for what is ailing him. He was sent to Texas Children’s Hospital today and I pray for a positive outcome, pray with me please. December 1, 2009 Thought for Today When my first child was born my wife and I had a 1976 Toyota Celica. We had approximately 20 miles to travel to the hospital, mostly on good roads but the first couple of miles were on the dirt roads of East Texas. With my wife in labor, every time I hit a bump in the road, and there are many bumps there, I had to pull over and let her compose herself before continuing. I cannot speak for her but for me that was one very long night. Joseph and Mary had a donkey and 85 miles to travel, only to find their “hospital” was a barn. When I think of this, it kind of shortens the long night I thought we had. Bible Says Micah 5:2 2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. John 1:14 14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. November 30, 2009 Opium Poppy Hi there folks, how thee be? Kind of an attractive flower am I, as you can see. So come on take a seat, have a listen and listen well To how I can lead you to the gates bordering Hell. Who would think when looking upon my beautiful petals That I could be insensitive, devilish and cold, as cold as raw metal But I can and I do use my beauty for temptation And become a drug that gives wonderful, deadly sensations. Papaver Somniferum is the Latin they gave me Somniferum means to sleep, it makes sense don’t you see. When my petals fall off they let me rest a few days Then they scrape the gum as it weeps from my bulb in raw and tedious ways. Then the gum lies around just taking in the sun And no longer is being a flower the least bit of fun. Then my tears that have become dried gum Is wrapped in banana leaf until the trader does come. Then it’s off to the refinery where I am boiled and broke down And then become morphine and made into bricks pound after pound. Then another slight chemical step is thrown in Until I reach the finale, 90 percent pure heroin. Then it’s off to the market and the demand is so great Thousands of junkies each morning do wait. They wait with no patience for tis I that they need And that need cannot be lessened no more by alcohol or weed. I arrive in the States and by now my pureness is lost, Though much weaker in potency I have rocketed up in cost. Two types of heroin I have been processed into and potentially fatal Type one is for smoking, type two makes a needle its cradle. I finally arrive so less potent than when I began And I may come from Burma, Laos or Thailand But the folks that have bought me know not of pure smack They need what they need and some never ever come back. So be wary when you approach such a beautiful flower For you know not the horror it can wield in but hours. I can take you higher, much higher than you can imagine Then drop you and watch you fall as you try to hold on to the tale of the dragon. And when they fall I can sometimes be tempted to feel compassion But it is my job now to take as many as my being will ration. I have been the reaper for so many for centuries You can try but you’ll fail, trying to get rid of me Those who don’t die, most days wish they will And it all began with a sweet little flower, growing up in the hills. Bible Says Proverbs 23:31-33 31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! 32 In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things. November 25. 2009 Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving Twas the night before Thanksgiving and all through the house, Excitement was growing and I was slightly soused. Mom was going crazy with new recipes, drinking coffee and getting wired Dad was in his work shop avoiding all lines of fire. My brothers and sisters were all over the place Tommy just called Suzy a name and she slapped his freckled face I was upstairs alone in my fortress, my room Dreading tomorrow’s family invasion of loons. Aunts, uncles and cousins, grandpa and grand ma Headaches abound with proportions of Gran Mal As I was reading my book, I wondered how all this madness began Puritans and Indians joining in food and prayer hand in hand. And I wondered to myself if they knew what they had done By starting a tradition with hours of chaos and a few minutes of fun. But the turkey’ always good and the pies so delicious it’s sinful Not bad if you can handle Aunt Daisy’s stories, she has a whole binful. After all the turkey is gobbled, please excuse the pun It is time now for football and all will be snoring before halftime is done. So on this night before Thanksgiving I thank God for my crazy family Chaotic, dramatic, I wouldn’t change a thing, all is well and the way it should be. Happy Thanksgiving One and All! Bible Says 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 19Do not put out the Spirit's fire; 20do not treat prophecies with contempt. 21Test everything. Hold on to the good. 22Avoid every kind of evil. 23May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. November 24, 2009 Thought for Today If I count all my blessings Take stock of all I am thankful for If I start at home in the morning The list is long for sure. I wake up breathing At times my breath was really gone My feet hit the floor And another day is on. I have a little chat with God For years I knew Him not Then I turn on the TV With a remote! To see if today is cold or hot. First cup of coffee Thank God that I am alive For trust me friends there were times I seemed destined to not survive. Every day the list gets longer The blessings do over flow I cannot wait to see what God has for me In the next act of Life’s great show! JMW Bible Says Ephesians 1:3-4 3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight November 23, 2009 Thought for Today It is Thanksgiving week and you what I thank God for? Everything! Bible Says Colossians 3:14-16 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And then I thought; If I would have been able to Bless myself, I would have missed a whole lot of Blessings that God didn’t. November 20, 2009 Thought for Today God gives us the ability and opportunity to think before we act. Going to God first in ALL situations may prevent damage to another. If I get angered at a loved one and my instinct is to lash out, if I ask God for the words to be His and voice mine, then I can overcome that immediate anger. In dealing with young people, if I lash out and in some way imply they are “no good”, they own it and all my apologies won’t overcome that which was said it anger. Bible Says Proverbs 29:11 11 A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. James 1:19-20 19My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. November 19, 2009 Thought for Today When I think of things that might have been And wonder what would I change if I did it over again Thoughts like that are no win, no win And late is better than never when being delivered from sin. Amen Bible Says Psalm 34:3-5 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. On This Day On this day at about 8am November 19, 2001, I got on a bus that left Edmonson Village and delivered me to the VA Hospital. That afternoon at 4pm, I walked to the Helping Up Mission and my life has been alcohol and drug-free and wonderful since that day! And the Lord delivered me from evil. Thank God for AA, 12 Steps, family and for people like me, that help people like me and thank you Lord, my Redeemer, for welcoming me into your fold. November 18, 2009 Thought for Today I hit a deer. Last night, literally out of nowhere, there he was. I didn’t just graze him or catch his front or hind quarters, the car hit his complete body broadside at 65 mph. These are my thoughts on what I am grateful for: I am grateful there were no cars in my vicinity at the time because I lost control of the car long enough to have hurt someone else. I am grateful that it did not hurt me, for as I am financially going to struggle for new wheels, I simply cannot afford to be laid up for any length of time. I am grateful that this happened on my way home from a wonderful night of celebration of my brother’s 6 years clean and sober and the miracles of AA, for I would have missed out on a great night if had happened on the way. I am grateful for the people I am likely to meet in my search for a new car, who knows, they might need to hear about Jesus. Mostly I am grateful to my Lord and Savior, for allowing me to grow into a person who can find gratitude in a situation that only years ago would have made me angry and because of that anger, I can only imagine the opportunities I missed. Finally, I feel bad about the deer, but given the situation, there was nothing either one of us could do to change the outcome and God has him now. Bible Says James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. November 17, 2009 Thought for Today I walked into the smoky room, filled with angst and fear I knew not what to expect or what I had gotten into I found a seat against the wall in the back of the back of the room. A man was speaking, seemed far away, yet his words found my ears He spoke of things he did back then and things he hoped to do He had a light in his eyes while telling tales of sadness, grief and gloom. Half way through the story turned with words sounding so very dear He spoke of hope and joy and love and how I could have those too The smoke filled halls of AA is where I met myself and God and my seat is saved in those rooms. Congrats!!!! A belated congrats to my niece Megan who celebrated 9 months clean and sober in October and to my brother Pat who celebrated a year last month and to my brother Tim who celebrates 6 years tonight and they all have a seat in a room that saved my life. Congratulations to the wonderful, magical, spiritual program of Alcoholics Anonymous! Bible Says Ephesians 5:17-19 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. 18Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,… November 16, 2009 Thought for Today What you do today can make someone’s tomorrow a brighter day. Bible Says Ephesians 2:10 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. November 13, 2009 Thought for Today Everytime I look upon someone in pain and take on some of their hurt, I am reminded of Jesus on the Cross and I cannot imagine how he must have felt to take on the hurt of the entire world. Bible Says John 11:34-36 34"Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, Lord," they replied. 35Jesus wept. November 12, 2009 Veteran As the Flag was lowered on Veterans Day The Nation’s Capital was cold, wet and gray And I thought perhaps it should be that way In honor of those who serve now and in past days. I was reminded of a cold lonely night I was in Korea on “Hot Status” and I observed a wonderful sight I saw what I believed to be an enemy flight But it was a shooting star, crossing the horizon, with a tail as big as a kite. I thought of home and my girls safely tucked in My wife taking care of them knowing I’d be home but not knowing when And I cried just a bit, as much as a soldier can cry with no chagrin And I prayed God for both sides of the DMZ, lay down arms, so that both sides could win. Then today when I thought what miserable weather I remembered cold Korea and how my platoon always stuck together To protect our families, keep their worries light as a feather Then I smiled and thanked God and my day got much better. Taps is playing right about now There are troops overseas, sticking together, knowing it will soon be over somehow Until that day they will do as duty calls and make us all proud And under the Stars and Stripes tonight, I thank God duly, outloud. November 11, 2009 Thought for Today When I refuse to let go of something, I am trying to keep God out of the picture. I am to do my best then let go, after that it is God’s business to direct, not mine. Bible Says John 14:1-3 Jesus Comforts His Disciples 1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. November 10, 2009 Thought for Today If I had to pick one stand out daily event that I missed the most when I was strung out, it would be hands down, tucking my daughters in at night and hearing, “I love you daddy…” God gave that back to me at me at some point in my sober journey, because I get to hear it every night now. I pray I never, ever take those words for granted. Thank you AA, thank you God for the 12 steps and thank you the Lord my Savior for catching me before I fell completely off the map. Bible Says Colossians 3:15-17 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Final Thought It is a month of Thanksgiving It is a month of gratitude So I pray my Lord, make me strong And that I keep a positive attitude! Request: My publisher has an offer, for every book I purchase, they will match it and donate it to a local bookstore or library of my choice, help me see if we can get From Junk to Jesus in the Howard County Libraries. Your donations are needed. Thanks! November 9, 2009 Hey Y'all, Hope you had a good weekend and I know that some of you did not. I am asking prayers for you. Without listings names and specifics on all the calls received this weekend, I would ask that we pray for those parents on this list and those that are not and for their loved ones strugglng with addictions. It was definitely one of those weekends when more bad news came in than good. To the "Yes My Kid" crowd, you can expect 2 new members to join you if not tonight, very soon. There is also the possibility of implementing "Yes My Kid" at a church in Bowie. Anyway, I did get one good call and it was a woman married to a guy who was in Reality House last year when I spoke there. Long and short of it is, his stay there didn't take and he continued using heroin until he got into the year long program at the Helping Up Mission. He called his wife from there and encouraged her to read From Junk to Jesus, which she did and then she called me and said I had told her husbands story, very similar anyway and that the book answered some questions for her. She will be joining Yes My Kid, so make an exception that her kid, is her husband. All of this prompted me to go to the Helping Up Mission website, www.helpingupmission.org where I ran across an article "Just One Night Can Make a Difference" posted by Pastor Gary, (thanks pastor). I knew he was doing this but totally forgot. Go to http://community. helpingupmission.org/Page.aspx?pid=299, if that doesn't work go to the link above and click on Blog Page. There are lots of good things posted there. Have a great day and please pray. November 6, 2009 Half Mast by Mike Weber Overseas, on the seas and in the air, Pride, honor and duty abound And never has a tear been quicker to fall Than when the last thing heard at night, is taps lonely sound. At lights out a young soldier is rocked to his sleep As the bugler blows the solemn reminder every night He says a prayer and remembers his family Safe at home, under the flag for which he fights. So many brothers at arms he has lost because with freedom sometimes, comes a very high cost It is that way today and it was in the past And as Taps is hauntingly blown round the Nation The Stars and Stripes will remain at Half Mast. And fly it does so low today And I really wish somehow I could Be there for some of those families That lost loved ones at Fort Hood. I served my country there you see Once upon a very proud time It breaks my heart to see a home of mine Be the scene of such a horrible crime. But this I know as I see the Flag Waving proudly halfway down the pole The American soldier will be undaunted And will never fall short of his goal. God Bless the Armed Services around the world Bless them all and touch them with healing hands And perhaps no more will the flag be half mast And the love of God will fill all the lands. November 5, 2009 Thought for Today The I’s are dotted all T’s are crossed The day was long, but finally, it is finished Emotionally drained and physically depleted So tired I wonder how I become so diminished. Then I lay me down, review my day, and talk to the Lord my Savior. I can tell him I am tired and he understands Then look at the day, all actions and behavior. He talks to me on how I did this or that And sometimes recommends a change. I say thank you Lord, stretch out full length and my pillow gets rearranged. I say good night after thanking the Lord For the good things as well as the trials. I thank him for my daughters I hold so close Though we are separated by miles. And then I remember what Jesus did When I think I am so diminished He went to the Cross for me you see And then he simply said, “It is Finished.” Bible Says John 19:29-30 29A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. 30When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. November 4, 2009 Thought for Today God is a great plumber! On the days when I feel completely clogged, He unclogs me. When I feel completely emotionally drained, He undrains me. When nothing is flowing at all, He sustains me. Bible Says Psalm 23 A psalm of David. 1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. November 3, 2009 Thought for Today In a pretty good mood and life is kinda’ cool, I’m in a zone of simplicity, just living the golden rule Wake up and thank the Lord Know that I am really content, when I think that I am bored. Spent years in bondage but Jesus set me free, Got me through all twelve steps, when I always stopped at three, AA, NA, CDA no matter what the scholars say The truth is they showed me the way, to many, many brighter days. Trust God, clean house, help others Simple suggestions that have helped fathers, mothers, sisters, sons, daughters and brothers. One day at a time, one step at a time, put s life in focus with reason and rhyme. On the stairway you learn all about you At the top you learn about God who pulled you through. The stairway to heaven can be scary at times Don’t look down as you make that upward climb What you did before doesn’t have to matter For on this set of steps, people who love you hold the ladder. The twelve steps of AA Gave me a brand new day, Taught me the truth and the way Now I share what God has done for me, in hopes that one life can be swayed. Bible Says Psalm 145:17-19 17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made. 18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. November 2, 2009 Thought for Today Teenagers are the hardest people to read when they don’t want you to know the truth. That being said, when you hit on something that strikes a chord with them, they are the easiest to read. They haven’t quite out grown or learned to control that wide eyed innocence they had as a child. In that blink of an eye moment, it’s as if God is saying, “You got their attention.” Bible Says Hebrews 2:13-15 13And again, "I will put my trust in him." And again he says, "Here am I, and the children God has given me." 14Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. October 29, 2009 Halloween by John Michael Weber Halloween is coming I don’t know what to do Dress up like a scary ghost Jump out and holler BOO! It started out as Pagan A day they called Sow-in It didn’t have a evil meaning It just meant summer’s end. Then the Christians moved All Hallows’ and blessed be the saints Then years go by and millions are made Selling scary costumes and make-up paints. Trick or Treat had a Pagan birth By leaving food on the steps of each door To keep the demons that move about From getting hungrier for more. Jack-O-Lanterns used to be turnips Until someone tried the first pumpkin And the Jack-O-Lantern became an icon Thanks to some country bumpkin. Some churches look upon this holiday With contempt and much scorn I am not sure what I think But I do love candy corn. So Happy Halloween to one and all And no matter how you celebrate Remember all those ghosts and goblins Are kids having fun and they think the night is great. Hallowed be thy name oh Lord Watch over parents, kids and teens And let them Lord have a bit of fun As they enjoy this Halloween. Bible Says Daniel 7:20-22 20 I also wanted to know about the ten horns on its head and about the other horn that came up, before which three of them fell—the horn that looked more imposing than the others and that had eyes and a mouth that spoke boastfully. 21 As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and defeating them, 22 until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom. October 28, 2009 Thought for Today Mind you, I understand the importance of getting kids active in sports. Sometimes I wonder why we overbook them. Perhaps we should check our motives, especially when missing things like church, for a soccer game and other such program sports and activities. I mean, I know, it’s only God we’re missing out on. Bible Says Revelation 7:11-12 11All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12saying: "Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!" October 27, 2009 Thought for Today I thank God He is there every morning, noon and night and all the way I thank God That I can talk to my daughters every single day. I thank God For His trust in me to try and make a positive change I thank God For loving all the people, that people might see as strange. I thank God For the change He made in me I thank God For lifting the veil of darkness that I may see. I thank God For all my family and friends I thank God For His promise that His love will never end. I thank God For bad times, dare I say I thank God For the bad times gotten through, have strengthened my faith today. I thank God There is so much to be thankful for So thank you God You have me in your arms forever more. Bible Says Psalm 30:11-12 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever. October 26, 2009 Thought for Today In decision making I try to ask myself 5 things: Is it going to hurt family Is it going to hurt friends Is it going to hurt anyone Is it going to hurt me Is it going against what God desires? One of those things in life that reads simple and to practice can be difficult. Bible Says 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”- October 23, 2009 Excerpt from The Un-Holy Trinity, Me, Myself and I Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? Matters of the heart, oh my goodness, what do I say? The Bible can make a person crazy, can it not? I mean if you pick out only verses like the last two. At any rate I hope to make a point on the passages throughout this journey through my mind both then and now. Just as a foreshadow, the roads that lead through my mind these days are much easier to navigate and even more fun but no less confusing at times. So my heart, what about it? I have worn it on my sleeve, I have buried it deep inside, it has been crushed and hurt and developed scar tissue and it has experienced great joy and happiness. When I was young it beat for one thing, me. I am glad god spared me the ability to see how selfish was then until now. I don’t know what I would have done with the information, nor do I believe I could have processed it at that age and here is an epiphany, perhaps deep down I did know and there in lay the problem with being me. I know, confusing, but let me see if I can clean that up just a little. I believe we all build up mechanisms or coping skills to deal with our shortcomings. Some are blessed with the ability to hit life where life is and then there are those like me, who in my mind was borderline schizophrenic, in the sense that I wanted to be anybody but who I was. Maybe that is because I knew what a self centered kid I was and who would like such a person. So I began to develop things like a temper, very dramatic emotions and the need to be noticed. Lest my heart would surely break. Here’s My Heart Here’s my heart I give it to you But it ain’t what it used to be It’s been broken in two But God put it back together I think it’s working just fine But now it belongs to you It’s no longer mine Here’s my heart Now it’s your heart too It smiles when you’re happy It cries when your blue It has carried me toughly Through thick and thin At last thank God Almighty My heart’s smiling again. In answer to the proposed question, “Who can understand it?” Not me, that’s my answer. With any luck and good editing you didn’t just read the above run on of confusion. If you did read it, I need to have a word with my editor. copyright©John Michael Weber, 2009 October 22, 2009 Thought for Today One thing that keeps me sober is being constantly bombarded, by those I am trying to help, with the same excuses and logic for getting high I used to put on counselors and those that cared about me. The totality of the ridiculous amazes me. Bible Says 1 Corinthians 1:18-19 18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Prayer Request: From Claire, Please pray for Brad who's in ICU and been on ventilator. He's suffering from renal kidney failure...it's a waiting game at this point. Love, Claire Prayer Update: A very welcomed false alarm came today to my niece Megan. Seems it wasn’t her liver that was a mess, it was a bad blood sample that caused the alarm. Her doctors gave her a thumbs-up when a new blood tests came back normal. Thanks for your prayers. October 21, 2009 Thought for Today I have no thoughts on this fine day No thoughts at all, they just slipped away So I am not really sure what I should say Just let me think a moment if I may. Ok well how about this? When thoughts don’t crowd me it’s really bliss, No chaos, confusion, bad thoughts to dismiss Just fresh paint and a clean palate to address. Or perhaps God cleans the slate When He wants my attention and doesn’t wish to wait. For it is true that I, He did create So if He wishes me to start fresh I dare not debate. Oh who knows, besides God I mean It’s just that sometimes my mind gets clean, And if my day was chaotic and like a bad dream God shuts its down and reboots till it’s a polished sheen. At any rate, having no thoughts sometimes feels like sinking, I guess I could at least it, with at least I’m not drinking One thing I know, well at least it’s an inkling This having no thoughts always gets me thinking. Bible Says Psalm 80:18-19 18 Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name. 19 Restore us, O LORD God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Prayer Request: Please pray for my niece Megan. She has had a less than desirable blood reading. If you recall she underwent a liver transplant and so pray to relieve her fear and for the doctors that care for her. She is waiting on results from another blood test to see if a biopsy is necessary. Keep her and her son Nicholas in your prayers please. October 20, 2009 Thought for Today Mike, When you fall, I will lift you up. When you have cause to celebrate, I will lift you up. When you feel down, I will lift you up. So, when life gets heavy, let me bear the weight. God Bible Says Matthew 11:28-30 (King James) 28Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. October 19, 2009 Thought for Today I see a lot of pain from day to day, It hurts my heart I have to say For we take a share of the pain away Sometimes unknowingly so. So if a sinner like me can feel misery of others If I have such compassion for my sisters and brothers As I witness hearts that are seemingly smothered Imagine what Jesus felt with the pain He took from us. When I think I have had enough When I think my efforts are but futile stuff The Lord will show me a diamond in the rough And the joy outweighs the pain. A flicker of light in a darkened eye A frown turned to a smile as the days go by Then I no longer need to know why It is the Lord showing His hand. So when my heart feels loaded down I talk to God and turn it around Then I tell my fellows God’s love abounds And with that love comes hope. Bible Says Job 30:16-18 16 "And now my life ebbs away; days of suffering grip me. 17 Night pierces my bones; my gnawing pains never rest. 18 In his great power God becomes like clothing to me; he binds me like the neck of my garment October 16, 2009 Ballad of a Cowboy JMW Well bein’ a cowboy didn’t work out at all It ain’t what you thought it’d be Ridin’ the range and playin’ the field Pretending that your life was free You tried not needin’ nobody You tried ridin’ life out alone Till you found out that bein’ a cowboy Ain’t nothin’ like those old country songs Thought it would be easy, to just ride away And leave those damaged memories behind But they followed you and you just can’t outrun them No matter how far you ride on down the line So saddle up your pony, and turn him around Give him plenty of reign Cause he knows the way to get you back home On a trail that leads straight through the pain Then somewhere along the way old friend The misery and pain starts to fade And brighter days lay ahead on the dusty old trail And bright light replaces the jade So bein’ a cowboy didn’t work out at all But God saw you differently He gave you the horse, the broken trail And by His Grace you got serenity. John Michael Weber©2009 Bible Says 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 14But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 15For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. October 15, 2009 Thought for Today Thank Thee oh Lord For the strength ye giveth’ me To do things that once, no doubt Would have been an impossibility To rise in the morn Where a smile and yay, nary a scorn Thank Thee oh Lord Tis comfort on the night, I doth see And comfort thou giveth’ When it is now but Thee and me. Bible Says Psalm 3:4-5 4 To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. Selah 5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. Mike – Hope you are well. Could you put out a prayer request for Shaun & Amanda. Shaun is only a few days away from his departure date (10/22) for the mission trip he and Amanda are making to Peru. Shaun is leaving early to get things going and to locate housing for he and Amanda. Amanda is staying behind to help out her sister, who delivered twins a couple of weeks ago (they were about 10 weeks early). Amanda will be leaving in early December. Of course with Shaun leaving earlier, it leaves Amanda to finish up tasks that were not able to be accomplished before Shaun’s departure, from selling the cars to finding homes for their two dogs. With the economy as it is, selling off some of their possessions to raise money for their trip has not gone as well as hoped. Please pray for Shaun’s safety and a successful trip and that he is blessed to find a place for Amanda and he to live and that the kick off of their ministry trip goes very well. Please pray for Amanda for protection and calm while Shaun is away from her; for things to go well with her sister and the twins so Amanda’s departure is not delayed; and that God will allow the selling off of their things so they have much needed funds for their mission trip. Finally, as they prepare to leave, pray for God to rain down blessings upon them and that they will carry forth God’s word as we are all directed to do and that they will touch the hearts of many in Peru so they will find, accept and become close to God. If any of the readers are interested in receiving their monthly updates online, please send them an email at: calledtoperu@gmail.com . Also, any who may be moved to offer financial support may do so by sending donations in their behalf to Modern Day. Modern Day can be contacted on the web at: www.modernday.org and donations made there online. Thanks! Jack & Jeanette October 14, 2009 Thought for Today Not that there’s not enough grief to go around but here’s some more. If you want to see a child end up on drugs, then prison, dead or worse, start them out poor. This weekend is the National Observance of Children’s Sabbath, sponsored by the Children’s Defense Fund. The weekend is set up so that faith communities all around the world can celebrate God’s gift to us and become their advocates. Why is this advocacy needed? Glad you asked. Of all the counties on god’s green Earth, the United States boast the highest rate of poor children. 1 in every 4 children are poor. 2660 are born each day into poverty and 27 die from it every day right here in the good old USA. Poverty fast tracks kids into drugs as a means of escape and a means to make money. This, in turn, gets the into the prison system early. My request is that this weekend, tell somebody. Tell somebody about the children of the inner cities. Tell somebody about the poor kids in the Appalachians. Tell somebody about the one room shacks that house 8 kids in the Mississippi Delta. Tell somebody about the 12 and 13 year old prostitutes, male and female in Los Angeles. Tell somebody that they can make a difference, as can we all. Bible Says Mark 10:15-17 15I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. Prayer Request: My old partner in youth ministry at Transfiguration, Kathy (The Rock) is in Montgomery General Hospital in Olney, MD. She is awaiting gall bladder surgery as well as treatment of pancreatitis as a result of the gall bladder problems. She is a great woman and dear friend and I ask your prayers for her. October 13, 2009 Thought for Today Through both experience and observation I have come to this realization: One of the worst mistakes made, when dealing with an addict, is to give them a time-line. If you are suggesting rehab for someone and tell them, “It’s only two months long…” To the addict it sounds like, “It’s only an eternity…” 24 hours to a “normal” person is like taking a breath. 24 hours to an addict without drugs and alcohol is an eternity… “One day at a time” truly is the way to salvation for those clamped in the jaws of addiction. Bible Says Matthew 6:33-34 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. October 12, 2009 Be the Light JMW It is easy to fall into the darkness When the world makes it seem so right Justified temptation, gives way to lurid sensations And Satan is the ruler of the night Sometimes it takes much courage And a call to God with all your might To stand alone against the darkness And to overcome and be the light. Sex and drugs and violence All wrong glorified over right More is better, better is more Abusing everything in sight Have we forgotten the flood or Sodom and Gomorrah Or the prophetic tribulation plight? Look to heaven, look there now And look to be the light. Jesus was the light He passed it on to us you know That we may carry His love And have the light continue its glow Shine it must, so in God we trust To give us the strength to fight Against all the madness and all of the darkness And to forever, be the light. Bible Says John 1:5-7 5This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. October 8, 2009 Thought for Today I can guarantee one thing for sure, if it was still fun drinking and using drugs, this thought would not be written. The fun went away years ago. Bible Says Ephesians 5:8-11 8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. October 7, 2009 Thought for Today I think this year for Halloween I am going to dress up as me. It used to be the most difficult costume for me to adorn. Bible Says Proverbs 3:3-4 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. October 6, 2009 Thought for Today In the midst of a field of weeds and thorns stands one beautiful rose. The rose is there for the taking for anyone willing to go through the thorns. Such is life. Bible Says Psalm 119:49-50 49 Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. 50 My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. October 5, 2009 Thought for Today Oh Lord, Oh Beautiful maker of all things You hear my cries in the darkest of night You hear my laughter when funny is just right You see the world and the demons we fight Oh Lord, Oh Beautiful God, my heart to you it sings. Bible Says Isaiah 55:6-7 6 Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. Prayer Request From Elsa in Houston: I have a special prayer request for my nephew Ricky. He was riding his bike this past Wednesday night, September 30th and he was hit by a moving vehicle on Westheimer going to a friend’s house. He suffered many injuries especially to the left side of his body. He had had 2 surgeries to repair a dislocated pelvis and a shattered left lower leg. He suffered a blow to the head and he developed some bleeding. He was immediately taken to Memorial Herman Children’s Hospital trauma unit where he is receiving excellent care and he is recuperating well. He still does not remember the accident. He thought he had been in a fight. He had a hard time remembering anything. He knows who his family is but he is not aware of his injuries except that he hurts a lot. Please pray for him. He is a young boy who recently met some very bad people and we don't want him to go down the wrong path. I am concerned about his future. I know that God has everything under control. There are too many things working against him right now and the closest to him is his father, who in my opinion is mentally ill. (He gave up his parental rights because he did not want to pay child support). They talk about religion and they know what is in the Word but they twist it around and it becomes almost like a cult. All I have to tell you is that David Koresh was his hero. That should tell you everything. I just wished God would remove this man out of his life he is the personification of Satan himself dressed in sheep’s clothing. Please keep him and his mother in prayer. My sister needs a lot prayer. She is not strong enough to stand up against this evil that is coming against her. Thanks, Elsa October 2, 2009 Another Addict’s Tale Her eyes told the whole story Her tears could fill a flask I knew where she had been and done I didn’t need to ask. But ask I did just in case She needed a compassionate ear And then she told me her whole story Of pain and misery and fear. I said it would get better And she said that I should know For even after years without dope My misery, too, still shows. We smiled a knowing smile Kindred spirits, with a common goal To give up our lives to God That He may save our soul. JMW Bible Says Psalm 69:29-30 29 I am in pain and distress; may your salvation, O God, protect me. 30 I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. October 1, 2009 Thought for Today The Gospel today is once again from Mark, and it got me to thinking. So what do we know about Satan? He shows up in Job and he is referred to in the Gospel today by Jesus himself. Is he a real entity or a metaphorical representation of all things evil? Let’s examine today’s reading and see what you think. The verses come from Mark 8:27-38, where we find Jesus and his disciples on the way to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. As they were walking along Jesus dropped a bomb on them with the question, “Who do people say that I am?” They replied that some thought he was John the Baptist while others said Elijah and still others said he was a mere prophet. Then he asked them to express who “they” thought he was. As has become the habit of Peter, he chimed in first by saying, “You are the Messiah.” Jesus then told them to keep it on the DL. Then Jesus started telling of all the suffering the Son of Man must endure up to and including dying and rising on the third day. Peter decided it was time to rebuke his master for openly saying these things. Jesus turned the tables on him by saying, “Get behind me Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.” This little exchange is reason for this article. The question being asked is, was Jesus literally talking to Satan or was he just using Satan as a way to illustrate to Peter that his thinking was off track. If this were the only time you hear Satan referred to in the Gospels, it would be easy to dismiss him as a metaphorical representation of bad things. If we skip ahead, we find Judas and here is what it is written about Satan concerning him: Bible Says Luke 22:3-4 3Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. 4And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. If you use the NIV Bible, there are 47 verses containing references to Satan. At any rate, I offer no right or wrong answer, just food for thought and an effort to make you hungry. September 30, 2009 Be Careful What You Ask; You May Not Like the Answer! My question today would not be, “What do we think about what Jesus said?” It would be along the lines of, “Do we discuss what Jesus said in Mark, or just skip to the next page for the sake of comfort?” The Pharisees asked Jesus his take on divorce and Jesus was very adamant in his answer, which is to say, he doesn’t give much “wiggle room” on divorce. I myself, am a divorced man and I will tell you that these verses make me at least a little uncomfortable. So being uncomfortable, let me skip to the next thing Jesus says in the Gospel of Mark; “Let the children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you; whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, will never enter it.” I would say that, in today’s Gospel, Jesus has decided to shoot straight with the Disciples. He, to coin a phrase, “Is pulling no punches.” What are we to make of this? The last verse, I have no problem with and think I have a pretty good understanding of what Jesus is saying. That being said, there are those that take issue with putting conditions on entering heaven, which Jesus clearly has done. So let’s say you were trying to win somebody to Christ or express your belief and this is the first verse you show them. What do you think the odds of getting their attention will be? So, we cannot just pick out a verse that works for us and we cannot leave out the ones that don’t. At least that is what I believe, how about you? Bible Says Mark 10:2-16 Some Pharisees came, and to test Jesus they asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" He answered them, "What did Moses command you?" They said, "Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her." But Jesus said to them, "Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. But from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female.' 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." Then in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery." People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them. September 29, 2009 Heavenly Reminder Sometimes I need to remember Life on Earth is but a chapter, And that eternity is really a long, long time And it gets great beyond the Rapture. I get caught up, I go to work And try to always do my best And sometimes work comes home with me And invades my time for rest. I love when life’s abundant And God likes that when it happens too But I must remember at the end, there is no end For with Christ I am never through. So I jot down this little note And I’ll mark it in a binder And when I think life is a little tough This can be a Heavenly reminder. JMW Bible Says Psalm 85:10-11 10 Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. 11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. September 28, 2009 Hey Y'all, My publisher has accepted my second effort at a Pulitzer and the contract has been signed. I am still months away from a booksigning but i thought i would give y'all a preview: Un-Holy Trinity Me, Myself & I Preface This book is going to be fun, at least for me. Because, you see, I am my favorite topic. I am self- centered to a huge fault. I want, what I want, and I want it, now! I will help you, but what is in it for me? I like hanging out with me and here it comes, I would have to admit, that I worship me. Because without me, what is there anyway. That’s one vision I have of me, here’s another. I am beyond worthless. Drawing another breath is somehow messing up the entire universe. Nobody likes me and I don’t blame them. I am not totally sure that Vietnam and subsequently Iraq , wasn’t somehow my fault. Everything I touch turns to you know what. I get angry when people talk about me and absolutely livid when they don’t. It is difficult to be me. Are you with me so far? None of the above is my fault because I am obviously a victim. I have a good heart and if only folks could see that, everything would be OK. If we could all hold hands and sing "Lean on Me", the world would be OK with me. Why, oh why, do things have to change? Can’t we leave well enough alone? Oh my goodness gracious, I am rambling. Forgive me, it’s not my fault, but I still need your forgiveness. The above insights to me, describe the addict in me. The me, which used to be. The me, I hope again to never see. It is, dear ones, the same dilemma many, if not all, addicts face day in, day out while in the grips of the ties that bind us, addiction. It is the ultimate description of an egomaniac, with an inferiority complex. It is the Un-Holy Trinity, because it involves only Me, Myself & I. I am going to take you on a journey through a bad neighborhood; my mind. It is not a place you want to travel alone, so bring a friend. I will do my best to lighten the load with funny stories from my life as a drunk and drug addict (of which there are many). Then I hope to take you all the way through to the other side where we will leave the darkness (and it gets really dark) and enter the light. So, lets get started on this journey, shall we? Prologue I was born on May 14, 1958 in Texas City , Texas and on that day, the world was changed forever. Fear not, my arrogance is not rearing its ugly head by any means, for I believe, that on the day each of you were born, the world was changed and never to be the same again. Why is that you ask? Well here’s what. If we are to believe the Lord our God and I do, then we are to believe that He created each of us uniquely and it was His personal design for us that make us unique. Therefore, when each of us is born, there is a ripple in God’s Kingdom caused only by us. He knows the hair on our heads by number (He’s making mine easier to count every day.) We each have a relationship to God, if we choose, that is ours and no one else’s. I don’t know about you, but I like that. I wish that I were a Rhoades Scholar so that I could amaze you with fine tuned wording to express my point. But, I ain’t, so let’s see if I can explain it simply. My Dad has three sons. I am quite sure he loves us all equally and yet we all have different relationships with him. When we were small, and even now that we’re all “growed up”, so to speak, we required different things from our father. We also supplied our dad with different types of joy. We were pretty equal on the disappointments and yet our earthly father forgave us. So God is the same way, but more. He creates us all, loves us all, treats us the same when we disappoint Him and forgives us all our transgressions and still has time and love enough to give each of us a personal relationship that he shares with no other. I don’t know; that’s way I see it. Try to follow me through this folks 'cause there is a point to this compilation of, what may appear at times, to be the ramblings of a dumb-wit. My co-worker tried for a couple of years to edit my writing and finally gave up. She said, “You write like you talk and you’re impossible to edit.” I don’t know if it comes from my addictive nature or just the fact that I am a human being in the grips of trying to keep up with a pace of living that outruns itself, but I must say that my mind, generally, is like a high speed internet without a pop-up blocker. At times I can’t keep up with myself. I am assuming some of you can relate to that because I am self-centered, but not to the point where I believe I can invent new mindsets. Hope I am right. So sit back, relax and please, I beg you, don’t over analyze the musings of a recovering addict, just enjoy the ride. If by chance this book explains anything or even more importantly, raises any questions, then so be it and I have succeeded. If nothing else, I hope you find these pages enjoyable. I feel compelled to lighten up some after my first book, From Junk to Jesus, In the Blink of an Eye, which looked intensely into the insanity of addiction from my point of view. You read that book didn’t you? You didn’t, well it’s not too late. Go ahead and get it now and the rest of us will wait until you catch up. OK, you’re back, good, how’d you like it? Never mind, as I was saying. The difference in that look and the one presented here is that, whereas I am still giving you my perspective (write what you know, I mean how could I write your perspective even if I had the desire, which being a part of the Un-Holy Trinity keeps me from that desire), but I am giving you my look not at addiction, but at me. I think you will find it easier to laugh at my shortcomings than to laugh at addiction. In AA through laughter we heal. Well here we go and keep in mind, it’s all about me! Copyright©2009, John Michael Weber All rights reserved. September 21, 2009 Thought for Today Ever heard the song that goes, “Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world…” Of course you have and in the Gospel today he makes that abundantly clear. When the disciples were arguing, thinking that their teacher could not hear them, they were debating, who was the best. Can you hear what might have been said? Things like, “Well Jesus favors me obviously, he let me wash his feet,” or Jesus likes me best ‘cause my Mom comes from the same neighborhood.” Well you get the idea, but Jesus set them straight, “If anyone wants to be first he must be the very last and servant to all.” Bible Says Mark 9:33-37 33They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, "What were you arguing about on the road?" 34But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. 35Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." 36He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37"Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." September 18, 2009 Thought for Today If they came up with a pill guaranteed to remove all desires to drink and do drugs I would, no doubt, overdose on said miracle pill. Bible Says Deuteronomy 21:19-21 19 his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. 20 They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." 21 Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid. Final Thought The above scripture makes me really appreciate Jesus and the New Testament. Talk about zero tolerance! September 17, 2009 Mike, I gave you a good heart. What you feel now is the damage that my fallen angels have reaped upon you for years. You are with me now and the longer you walk with me, the hardness of the scars will soften. I love you my son. God This was written January 23, 1999 while staying at a Christian Recovery House called the Ranch in Houston, Texas. Bible Says Ephesians 5:1-2 1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. September 16, 2009 Thought for Today I heard a speaker at a meeting, a meeting for NA He was profound, his message not watered down, he had a lot to say. He spoke of church and of God but sadly when he had to say, what he needed to say He felt not comfortable in a church, to speak of pain and drugs and such and therefore he told the truth to those in NA. I got to thinking how sad it is and how our church message is cool and rather handy. But when push comes to shove, we sometimes take tough things from above, and spin them into cotton candy. I have told my story to some church folk and it never seems to be the same for if I told the church, the things I tell fellow junkies, I would be deemed insane. Don’t get me wrong I love my church and all the people there and for their sake, if not my own I just sugar coat what I share. When I want to get downright dirty, meaning when I need to tell the bitter truth I find it better to share with those who are less inclined to find me totally uncouth. That being said I know God listens and isn’t that the point It is not necessary to give those in church, details that might make them out of joint. Still I cannot help comparing the Pharisees and Cotton Candy When I walk in church and it makes you feel as though you are missing what makes everyone’s life seem so dandy. So God allowed us AA, NA, CA and all the programs for us users that we might find him and return to church not feeling like such losers. As my sponsor says and it’s without sugar and perhaps just a little crass, “I go to church to save my soul and to AA to save my ass.” Bible Says James 3:17 17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness. September 15, 2009 Thought for Today Don’t you think that we would better serve Jesus, by sharing with others all the things we CAN do because of His Grace and Love, rather than hammering the things we SHOULD NOT DO. I believe the gift of the Spirit is something we want to share with others because we want to, not because of an obligation as a Christian. Bible Says 1 John 4:7-12 7Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. September 14, 2009 Thought for Today I wonder Lord, why me Lots of people on the planet you see Lots that led better lives with a lot less sin Lots of folks who would have a better grip on how to begin So I have to wonder Lord , why me? How did I earn your trust and love Have you watched my actions from up above, If so then you understand my concern For I knew for the life I led I must surely burn But then you trusted me Lord, why me? I like your love and your trust my Savior But how could you reward such outlandish behavior, But you did reward my King And from out of the darkness my heart learned to sing, So forgive me when I ask you Lord, why me? Bible Says Philippians 2:1-4 1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. And the Lord Said: Why not? September 11, 2009 Video God shows me a video nearly every single day Must be loaded in my heart and mind and God just pushes play. The first scene I am grateful, for the coffee and the car And that I am on my way to work, not on my way home from a bar. Second scene I sign in at the rehab where I’m employed As the first of the clients come downstairs agitated and annoyed. I smile and say good morning and they just nod their weary head, Not realizing just quite yet how close they were to dead. Scene three brings the first of five that day we’ll intake And the fear and pain in their eyes, screams their sure this is a mistake. Some so broken it’s hard for them to even empty their already empty pockets Some so torn apart their eyes barely stay within their sockets. Scene four is usually a happy one for someone is ready to embark On the journey outside the rehab, some sincere, some are a lark. Scene six, I drive 40 miles to another job I hold At this one I try to take the young invincible teens and fit them to some mold. They are so very smart even with the drugs they do day by day And their immune to consultation of where they may end up if they don’t change their ways. Hope still springs in these young minds but it’s getting buried deeper by the minute, And one thing I know for sure about addiction is you don’t plan it, you end up in it. On a good day scene 6 will take me home to reflect upon Gods video Reminding me that all I am is one cowboy in God’s Rodeo. Many more are needed you see, there’s not enough cowboys in all the cities and towns And the insurance companies change language everyday, in Gods Rodeo they are the clowns. But try we must and try we do and we hope and pray and wish And if one shoots into a pond long enough, no doubt he’s bound to kill a fish. The last scene is wrapping up and now it’s just me and my Savior As the credits role I see a time or two where I could improve on my behavior. Then comes the part where the credits say Produced and Directed by And it comes real clear this video does, that the names for those are the Utmost on High. The End Bible Says Psalm 25:4-6 4 Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. 6 Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Prayer Requests We heard an awesome speaker at Grace in Shaun Wissmann. He brought me to tears with his prayers for the parents and their children struggling with drugs and alcohol. So I propose, that everyone reading this, think of one young person you know struggling with the demons of addiction and pray for that person by name along with his family. Honestly, if I were to name names of all that I know, it would be longer than an email could handle. September 10, 2009 Thought for Today By now all the village is well aware of Mary and her hard to explain pregnancy. No doubt Joseph is being counseled to run and if I don’t miss my guess, Mary has been chastised by friends and neighbors, and if I am Mary’s Dad, I am not sure I am buying her story as much as I want to and as much as I love her. Can you imagine being there? Can you imagine if God waited until today for this virgin birth? Would anyone in any neighborhood notice a modern day Mary? I don’t think so, ever reminding me that God knows what He is doing and when to do it. Bible Says Matthew 1:18-19 18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. September 9, 2009 Thought for Today When looking upon our children, the mistakes, the successes, the losses and the wins. The things that make our hearts warm, the things we fear and the things that make us grin. I have to remember that it is God to whom they belong and God has entrusted me, to love and bring them along, And it is that trust God has put in me, that makes my heart sing beautiful songs. Bible Says Matthew 18:5 5"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. 6But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. September 8, 2009 Thought for Today Isn’t it amazing, when you think about it, that we spend a lot of time focused on the differences, when the similarities are so much more evident and far more numerous, when speaking of people. Bible Says Genesis 1:27 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Final Thought Did we not all start as Gods children, or am I missing something? September 4, 2009 Thought for Today I love the way Isaiah, can shout a prophecy He did it so proficiently, that scholars claim him to be three There was the first Isaiah, who stood up against all tyrannical kings The second was a musical wonder who wrote of fields, valleys and the way a bird would sing. The third Isaiah, which was a disciple to the prophet, just mimicked one and two No matter, the book you see, is a good read through and through But scholars figure these things out and it can be a tad confusing But if your faith in God is strong, the whole thing is quite amusing. Say what you want, say whatever is in your will But I say be he one or three, he’s my favorite prophet still He stood for the little guy, folks like you and me He told us how Christ would suffer and hang upon a tree. So perhaps a book so good as the one we call Isaiah Might just take three people to write, I don’t know, what say ya’ One or three don’t matter to me, the whole thing is rather odd For no matter who penned this book or that, the words all come from God. Bible Says Isaiah 1:1-2 1 The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. A Rebellious Nation 2 Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken: September 3, 2009 Thought for Today I am not where I thought I would be, and not where I think I want to be, but I am eternally grateful that I am not where I used to be. Mine is not to spend so much time questioning where I am on this journey, but to faithfully follow God’s navigation, not mine. Bible Says Isaiah 48:17 “This is what the LORD says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” - September 2, 2009 Thought for Today If the people, young and old, that I work with and try to help, could see what I see in them, they would know they are God’s children and worthy of all the love for them that is there. Which leads me to believe that God allows me to see these people, for the good people they are, to ensure me, that on my darkest of days when I could not see it, I was worthy of God’s love. There is no greater thrill than being present when the lights come on, drowning out the darkness of an addict. Bible Says Revelation 5:11-13 11Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!" 13Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!" September 1, 2009 Thought for Today The work that God has graciously allowed me to do, allows me to interact with others all day. There are many, many, many differences between me and a lot of those folks, but the one thing, the one common bond I have with EVERY human being, is that we are ALL children of our Creator GOD Almighty. Bible Says Romans 8:15-17 15For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs— heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. August 31, 2009 Thought for Today Wake up in the morning to a cup of Joe, I know Sit back with the Bible till it’s time to go, for sho’ Not a bad way to start the day at all, I’m sure Touch base with God and see what He’s got in store Outside and I face the day and smile, feels good Turn on the radio while I try to be on time, I should My navigator is Jesus Christ, God’s son Tried other co-pilots but He is the only one I fear no evil when I am with Him, behind the wheel I finally found something that doesn’t change, He’s always real Arrive at work and the smile is still in place My heart is full as each challenge, comes my way to face For I’m not alone I’m with the maker of the entire Human race He’s not a fable nor fairy tale He is real, and joy I no longer have to chase. There’s a place for me, beyond the wonderful stars Where I will find myself someday, free of pain and free of all my scars That place is Heaven sitting with Angels, friends and the Lord, I know I know because I believe, I believe because I was shown, gotta quit now cause it’s time to go… Just one more thought I have told you once or twice or thrice We can do all things through He who strengthens us and that is Jesus Christ. Bible Says Philippians 4:12-13 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength. August 27, 2009 Thought for Today I could never do that, no, no not me I’m afraid of needles just as sure as can be. I’ll never smoke crack that’s the lowest of low Just smoke a bud now and then, that’s as low as I’ll go. Maybe a beer but I’ll never drive and drink, That happens to those who simply don’t think. I’ll be just fine, it’s my life anyway don’t you see, So why do you keep on hounding and pounding on me? I know, I know, but things were different back then, Have mercy we’re much younger and wiser, than you could have been. So preach on if you must, tell us how we’ll certainly end If we keep smoking pot, time and time again. What’s that you ask, would I let my own kids smoke pot? Well that’s a stupid question and I must answer certainly not. (Youthful arguments that I have heard.) Bible Says Psalm 25:6-8 6 Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD. 8 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. August 26, 2009 Thought for Today My life had to become submerged in darkness before the Light was appreciated. I had to witness the Devil before I ran to Christ. Thank the Lord my Savior for His Grace, for if judgment ruled all, I would still be sentenced to darkness… Bible Says Romans 8:36-39 As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. August 25, 2009 I Wanna Cry Sometimes I wanna cry but the tears won’t run They make it to my eyes but get stopped, they won’t come Like the mighty Colorado held back by Boulder Dam The raging rivers of tears run wild on the inside of the who I am. Oh the rivers of tears that run through my heart They seemingly have no end, nor do they seem to have a start And they run silent, most of the time Before flooding the sadness of my heart and my mind And I just wanna cry. Then the Lord hears those rivers of pain And calms them with the love of His reign He knows what will silent the rapids of fear And He knows that when I hold back my tears That I just wanna cry And He lets me. Bible Says Psalm 42:2-4 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng. August 24, 2009 Mike, Keep my will in your heart and I will unclutter your mind then your soul will be at peace. God Bible Says Psalm 94:18-19 “When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.” August 21, 2009 Thought for Today Starting the day with God is cool. Ending the day with God is necessary. Spending the day with God, well that’s just special. Bible Says Psalm 42:8 “By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life.” August 20, 2009 Mike, If you want your obsessions removed, give them to me. First, you have to want them to be removed. God Bible Says Acts 26:12-15 12"On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. 13About noon, O king, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions. 14We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.' 15"Then I asked, 'Who are you, Lord?' August 19, 2009 Thought for Today If I try and see the finished puzzle I can easily become overwhelmed. Best to deal with the piece in front of me. Bible Says Proverbs 16:8-9 8 Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice. 9 In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Prayer Request: Please keep Jeanette in your prayers. She has just had a difficult oral surgery and needs prayer for healing. Announcement: The Golf Tournament is hereby cancelled. August 18, 2009 Thought for Today When I come to a fork in the road, though I can pray and meditate, I still cannot be 100% sure that when I step out, that I am on the path God wanted me to take. If I choose wrongly, however, I can be sure that God will redirect my journey. I have to step out on faith and I am pretty sure that standing still at the fork will avail me nothing. Bible Says Proverbs 3 Further Benefits of Wisdom 1 My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. August 17, 2009 Thought for Today Goodbye Again Said good bye to my girls again today And that little phrase just gets harder to say My heart breaks and shines as if it was an emotion of one Because I am sad to go but so very proud of all the things they have done. So I gave them hugs and told them I loved them so Then sped off down the road before they saw my tears flow. Happens every time, never gets easy and of that I have no doubt But I leave them with my heart and God has them whether I am in Texas or out. They have men in their lives and they are nice enough I suppose You can see they care for my girls and my respect for them little by little it grows. And my girls, well whether I like them or not Their eyes look at them like they used to look at me when they were just tots. God has given me too many blessings to number But every night I thank him for my girls before I fall into slumber. They are my joy, they are my strength, they’re my life And together with God we’ve all shared in happiness and weathered strife. I used to tell them when they were but little girls With ribbons and bows and pretty little curls That no matter where they find themselves on any given day Their dad is never more than a big smile away. Thanks for a great visit Lindsey and Lauren and oh yea, tell them guys thanks too. Love ya, Dad Bible Says Genesis 31:49-51 49 It was also called Mizpah, because he said, "May the LORD keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other. 50 If you mistreat my daughters or if you take any wives besides my daughters, even though no one is with us, remember that God is a witness between you and me." 51 Laban also said to Jacob, "Here is this heap, and here is this pillar I have set up between you and me. Final Thought That verse just reminded me of what the first fathers might have said to guys, since they didn’t have shotguns as yet… August 14, 2009 Thought for Today In 1990 I was privileged to have made the selection cut to go to Ft. Bragg and go through the selection process, to see if I could go through another process to be a Special Forces member. All of these, “processes” were grueling but upon arrival to Ft Bragg, my stay was to be short. In the selection process to be selected, you had to carry a 75lb ruck-sack to points given to you. The cadres and officers made it specifically clear, to stay on the roads and we will have no problems added to the sheer endurance of the course. About three stops and 15 miles into the night, I mapped out yet another course that if I stayed on the roads I was looking at a much longer journey, than if I cut directly through the woods. I got lost. I should have listened to the officers and might have done much better in my efforts at Ft Bragg. My journey to God is similar. He obviously had a direct path mapped out for me, but I chose to cut through the woods, making my journey to God much longer than it need have been. Moral of the story, stay on the road. Bible Says Job 18:9-11 9 A trap seizes him by the heel; a snare holds him fast. 10 A noose is hidden for him on the ground; a trap lies in his path. 11 Terrors startle him on every side and dog his every step. You See: Job just described my walk through the woods of Ft Bragg to a T. Quotable Quotes 'God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill all His promises ... leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself.' Dietrich Bonhoeffer August 13, 2009 Thought for Today Things I have learned: Big difference between waking up and being woke up. Big difference in falling asleep and passing out. Coffee tastes better when you want it than when you need it. Water tastes better when you’re thirsty. Getting to work 15 minutes early is better than one minute late. The wait for getting off a plane seems much longer than the wait getting on. Finally, life is better when I let God handle the details. Bible Says Ephesians 2:6-10 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. August 12, 2009 Thought for Today Jesus loves me I know for sure And in that love we can endure. All the trials, troubles and tribulations. And good things too with jubilation When my heart is happy and when my heart is sad He loves when I am good and even when I’m bad. So at times when I feel I am sinking low I remember Jesus loves me this I know. Bible Says Matthew 19:13-14 13Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Final Thought I punched out that childish piece of poetry and thought, “That is a piece of childish poetry.” Then I remembered the verse above and thought, “As it should be.” August 11, 2009 Thought for Today Change, for the sake of change, is a task of futility. If you grow a little bored of putting tomatoes on your sandwich, so for change sake you put slices of pomegranate in their place, then you have changed. Is it better? I think not. We may see God’s Word differently from time to time but it NEVER changes. Bible Says James 1:16-18 (New International Version) 16Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. August 10, 2009 Felt Like John Michael Weber Felt like writing about love tonight Almost called you, who knows I still might The moon is full and it’s a beautiful night One of those that makes my heart get tight When I think about you. Felt like wishing you were still mine I do that a lot if not all the time And its one those nights I can’t unwind Cause there you are dancing in my mind And I’m thinking about you. Felt like missing you and it makes my heart ache I loved and lost and still love you though it’s a mistake Wishin’ like hell you would call and one call is all I could take My hearts full of scars but no matter, it never does break When I think about you. Felt like reminding you I am still hear Hoping someday you might conquer your fear And knowing you won’t and that brings the tears But I miss you now as I have missed you for years Every time I think of you. So I put what I felt like to paper and pen Wonder if I will ever hold you again Hoping you are happier now than you were back then Because in this love one of us needs to win And I still feel like loving you. Bible Says Song of Solomon 4:9-11 9 You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace. 10 How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than any spice! 11 Your lips drop sweetness as the honeycomb, my bride; milk and honey are under your tongue. The fragrance of your garments is like that of Lebanon. Prayer Request: Please keep Jenny's brother in your prayers. He has contracted shingles and needs prayer for quick healing. August 7, 2009 Thought for Today Adonai Of all the words used for God, Adonai is by far my favorite. There is much written on its literal meaning but to summarize: Adon-refers to men, angels and the true God of Israel “lord, master, owner” Adn- means “lord” or “father” Adannu-means mighty Adon-combines the two Adonai is the word that was ultimately the substitute for all of the above and appears 300 times in the Tanakh, the first in Genesis 15:2 where Abraham refers to God as “Adonai YHWH.” Anyway, that info is cool, but mainly I like Adonai because it is almost like a song in one word containing both lyrical poetry and a melodic quality that is befitting of our Lord. Bible Says Darby Translation 1 Kings 2:26 And the king said to Abiathar the priest, Go to Anathoth, to thine own fields; for thou art worthy of death; but I will not at this time put thee to death, because thou didst bear the ark of Adonai Jehovah before David my father, and because thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted. Confused Thoughts I started out today just wanting to share with you what I thought about the word for God, Adonai, simple right. Not so much. I used 1st Kings because it was the only place I could find the word Adonai without going to the Jewish Bible. In my search I found an interesting study on Genesis which gets in to Adonai and YHWH. My point is, how fascinating it is to dig into the Bible. I have heard songs with Adonai used and just assumed it was all over the Bible. Not so. August 6, 2009 Thought for Today Broken Man There once was broken man, his hope, long gone, made room for despair Shattered dreams of things that once made him smile now cobwebs in his mind he no longer cared. Each morning brought pain that grew and grew, Each morning disappointed that his life was not through. He would do a little of this to get a little of that and a little of the other Had to hurry for thoughts of his family, long lost, crept in, thoughts of his children and their mother. Increasing pain teamed up with misery, beat down his soul day by day Realization of what a lousy game it is his life, but a game that he simply must play. He loads up a dirty syringe with his morning dose and fires it into his system His heart for a moment feels such great relief and its beat slows to a dangerously low rhythm. As the drug winds its way through his veins of decay, he thinks life is an effort in futility Sense of self slipped away, self esteem made way and what was left was a sense of pure humility. In this momentary humble state, he closed his eyes and prayed to a god he was not sure was there Then the Lord spoke softly to him, “I am here my child, and you are in my loving care.” This revelation brought a weak smile to this broken man and he had strength to get up one more day As he walked down the boulevard, he thought , this is going to be hard, but he seemed undaunted and unafraid Then a man walked by him and said “Good morning, my man” and it surprised him no end He looked back as the man walked away and thought that man God surely did send And the broken man, was no longer broken today He passed by a church smiled to himself and went inside that he might pray. Your life can change in the blink of an eye! Bible Says Luke 8:28-30 28When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don't torture me!" 29For Jesus had commanded the evil[c] spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places. 30Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" Final Thought When you clear away the all the therapy, 12 steps, psychiatric help, medical help and all the human love that was needed for me to not be that man in the poem anymore, what is left is Jesus Christ, my Lord my Savior that broke the chains that bound me. Now, for as long as I live, I will point people to therapy, I will demand they take the 12 steps of AA, I will recommend psychiatric help, as well as medical, I will remind people that God loves them and so do I and I will shout the loudest of all, my love for my Redeemer, Christ the Lord. August 5, 2009 Thought for Today Perception can be our greatest ally or our most fearsome enemy. The willingness to view something from another point of view increases our perspective, while the unwillingness to see things from another perspective, keeps us two dimensional. Bible Says Philippians 3:14-15 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 15All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. August 4, 2009 Thought for Today In the group of young adults I work with I am witness to pain, anger, confusion and some days that hurts. On another day I see the same emotions, but if I look and listen close, God allows me to witness hope. Bible Says Romans 5:2-6 And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. 6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Confession: No way do youth I am supposed to guide get as much from me as I learn from them. Hope springs. August 3, 2009 First of the Month The first of the month is kinda’ tough, is it not? Trying to figure which bills get paid and which do not. Gotta’ pay the rent cause I want a roof above my head Tried to call the landlord but my phone just went dead. I got red letter post marked BG & E If I don’t pay them I’ll have no electricity. OH yeah, then there’s gas so I can get to work To make a little money with no frills or thrills or perks. I am grateful that I have a job a lot of folks do not I am grateful that I have a car, no AC, so I am grateful it ain’t too hot I am grateful for the things I have that require electricity Like hot water, lamps, computers and of course my own TV. I am grateful that I know the landlord and for the place that I rent It’s the first thing I pay every month before all my money’s spent. I am grateful for an understanding Lord who forgives me of my sins, who allows me all my rants and raves and then perhaps just gives a grin. He grins because he knows that everything will be alright Truth is, I know this too, because I believe in Jesus Christ. Just finished my first cup of coffee and it reminded me Wasn’t long ago that I couldn’t have a cup unless it was totally free So Lord the little things remind me I have much to be thankful for Still I wish the first of the month easier, that it did the month before. Bible Says Mark 14:4-6 4Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? 5It could have been sold for more than a year's wages[a] and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly. 6"Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. Final Thought I wonder how many think it foolish to give 10% to God and every year give 30% to the government. July 31, 2009 Thought for Today Isn’t it odd, the president makes a less than desirable statement suggesting that the Cambridge police acted “stupidly” and the press, in return, called the president stupid over and over and over and then to fix all this, the men involved sat down and had a beer to fix things. We live in crazy times. Oh yeah, the only citizen of the United States of America, who acted properly, was a woman that called 911. She is a hero and the well trained, well loved president, the heavily degreed professor and the professionally trained civil servant all acted questionably and decided that the way to solve this little racial lack of communication was to drink alcohol in the Rose Garden. Did I mention we live in crazy times? Bible Says Proverbs 12:17-19 17 A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies. 18 Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. July 30, 2009 Thought for Today A “normal” person cannot fathom how totally absurd the idea of not taking a drink is to an alcoholic. It is truly the equivalent of telling someone they can no longer breathe. Bible Says Psalm 4:6-8 6 Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?" Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. 7 You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound. 8 I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. Scripture Reflection An alcoholic can put down the “wine” when he is offered a “new wine” and is convinced it is better than the old. July 29. 2009 Excerpt from the unfinished autobiography, “The Unholy Trinity, Me, Myself and I.” by John Michael Weber from Chapter 1 “In the Beginning” "Woe to the obstinate children," declares the LORD, "to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin;…” Isaiah 30:1 … There is something sacred about being a native Texan and pretty much impossible to explain. My mother was from Mississippi and my father from Arkansas. Truthfully, if I am to believe my father, I was conceived at Virginia Beach. That was a bit of information I don’t think I really needed to know, but know I do and it changes nothing because on the day that I entered this world, my parents were inhabitants of the Great State of Texas, making me a Native. Of that I am truly proud. I have worn the title Native Texan as a crown for all my life. Why, I don’t know, just supposed to, that’s all. I mean, I don’t recall having any say in the matter of my birthplace, anymore than I chose the name John Michael Weber, I am proud of that too. I bring this up to high light the fact that I was born to be arrogant because I was born a Texan. I cannot explain that anymore than I can give you a reason that I have and was born with the predisposition to become an addict. It is one of those top 5 questions for God when I meet him and that question is “Why me?” I am sure his answer will be something like “Why not?” But you understand, I gotta’ ask. First of all Texas is a proud state and has a proud people. Many outside the state would look upon that “pride” and call it arrogance. Arrogance, I view as BIG Pride and as any Texan will tell you, everything is bigger in Texas so it stands to reason, does it not, that arrogance would be considered a compliment. Means we’ re not only proud, we’re big proud and ain’t afraid to shout it from the mountaintop. Just as a side note, an exception to everything being bigger in Texas would be the mountains. Texas Mountains are known as hills to the rest of the world. Forgive me my fellow Texicans. This going to sound kinda like Andy Rooney (forgive me Andy) but why is it that Texans are so proud? “Remember the Alamo.” For those of you who are Texas History challenged, let me enlighten you on the two things I believe led to our arrogance, oh no, I mean pride. The Texas Revolution had been ongoing and then on March 2, 1835 Texas at the Convention held at Washington on the Brazos declared their independence from Mexico. What was already going on was the battle of the Alamo. On February 23, 1835 General Antonia Lopez de Santa Anna and his army of 5000, caught the boys and their families at the Alamo by surprise. Undaunted, they prepared to defend this small mission with their small band of heroes including Colonel Travis, Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett. So the siege began and for 13 days the Alamo held its ground against 5000 Mexican troops. It is recognized as a truly heroic struggle against impossible odds and the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. The Alamo remains hallowed ground in San Antonio, Texas to this day. Now at this time Sam Houston had gathered troops and met Gen. Santa Ana at the San Jacinto River, the battle of San Jacinto is where the phrase “Remember the Alamo!” was birthed. Sam Houston was wounded in the first run of this skirmish and made a command post beneath a tree (also hallowed ground today). Santa Anna was so taken with his defeat of the Alamo and the results of the first run at these Texas upstarts at San Jacinto that he decided that he and his troops would follow their time honored tradition of taking an afternoon siesta. That means afternoon nap for all y’all northerners. This would prove to be a huge mistake because Sam Houston had no problem kicking their proverbial butts while they were asleep. So Texas was born. I will enlighten you with more Texas stuff later, but as you can see, we all got reason to be proud. This is my confession, and I make this at risk of losing my Texas status and being stripped of my snakeskin boots and made to say “you guys” for the rest of my life, so I confess with great trepidation but confess I must. You see I am so glad I wasn’t at the Alamo. Legend has it that Colonel William B. Travis drew a line in the sand and told those who wished to leave the Alamo could cross with no shame. It is written that only one crossed that line. My confession is that had I been there, I fear that there would have been two because one of those would have been me and I would have ridden so fast that before you could say “Remember the Alamo”, I would have been in Corpus Christi sipping margaritas. There I have said it; confession is good for the soul. How come I feel like a coward? 2 Timothy 3:2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy… July 28, 2009 Thought for Today Jesus tells us that in his Father’s house there are many mansions. I just want a condo on the beach. Jesus is preparing it now, so I just wanted Him to know I ain’ t picky about the dwelling but as they say in real estate, location, location, location…I love the beaches on Earth, can you imagine how cool they are in heaven? Bible Says John 14:1-3 (KJV) 1Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. Update: Megan, in Tyler, Texas daughter of Tracy Dayne Weber, my cousin, came through her surgery yesterday and if all goes well, will be home in a couple of days and have a return trip to the hospital to remove a stint. My aunt patsy wanted to thank you all for your continued prayers for Megan. July 27, 2009 Thought for Today Each day comes with a wonderful curiosity, “What does God have in store for me today?” Bible Says 1 Chronicles 16:8-10 8 Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 9 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Good News From a Parent: Dear John Michael, My son now is 7 months clean and sober.....Paul Downey. He did 28 stay at Fr Martins and then resided in Delray Florida, we brought him home due to his failure to work. He has been home almost 3 months....after much strength on my husband and I we pushed for him to either work, enlist or find other housing. He was so lost and not sure what to do.....he lacked any motivation to work and had no desire to return to college. With the support of our family Paul has chosen / did enlist in the Navy....he leaves for bootcamp 7/28. For the first time in 2 years he has some enthusiasm/excitement. He returned to church....Eagles Nest in Milton Delaware and has gotten much support/encouragement from all he has met. We are amazed at the change in him since he made decision to enlist.... maturity and looking at life goals. Please keep him your prayers as he moves forward. Thanks and God Bless........Christine July 24, 2009 Thought for Today There is an old Faces (Rod Stewart) song that has this line in it: “I wish that I knew all I know now, when I was younger….” I got to thinking wouldn’t it be cool to go back to my youth with the knowledge and experience I have now and then I thought how utterly boring it would be. I think God made us to grow “up” not grow “down” and He knew what He was doing. Bible Says Psalm 25:6-8 6 Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD. 8 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways July 22, 2009 Thought for Today If I awaken one Christmas morning or perhaps on my birthday and find a gift for me, wrapped in pretty paper and ribbons and bows, it is truly a warming thing, for a minute. If do not open the gift, it is still a gift, it is just that it is doing me no good for I have not opened it to see what is inside and how it can benefit me. God gave us a gift. He gave us His son and through Him we receive the gift of Grace. Right now that gift is in many homes and remains unopened. How can we enjoy the Lord, if we do not open the gift of the Spirit? Bible Says Ephesians 2:7-9 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. July 21, 2009 Thought for Today Today no thoughts come my way I am at a loss for what to say Writers block? Perhaps that’s true But this has happened, once upon a time or two. When it does I just start to write And hope the Lord will shed some light. When I think of light that sparks a thought Of things I should do and those I shouldn’t ought. No relief can be so great and stark Than when a glimmer of light pierces the dark In my years of darkness it was of light I dreamed And when it shown my heart was redeemed. So as I said I no profound words to share But to all of you please know I care If you find yourself in a place that seems lost Remember that Jesus has paid the cost. Bible Says 1 John 1:6-8 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. July 20, 2009 Thought for Today Is alcohol a drug? Most people would say no and if their kids drink feel relieved and say, “At least they are not doing dope." Did you know? Underage drinking costs the United States 58 billion dollars every year. Alcohol kills 6 times more youth than all the illicit drugs combined. These are the facts and they are undisputable. Bible Says Job 26:1-3 1 Then Job replied: 2 "How you have helped the powerless! How you have saved the arm that is feeble! 3 What advice you have offered to one without wisdom! And what great insight you have displayed! July 17, 2009 Thought for Today Delicate is the human brain but mighty is the heart when filled with the Holy Spirit of God Almighty. I believe that Satan won’t come near our hearts but finds our weakness between our ears. When I absorb the Word, no power can come against me because my heart can overpower the frailty of my mind. All because of the Grace God gave us through Jesus Christ. Bible Says 2 Corinthians 2:10-12 10If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, 11in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. July 16, 2009 Thought for Today In reflection of old photos I am somewhat amazed to find That even in my troubled life God gave me moments so kind Photos of family, photos of friends Pictures that paint thousands of words that seemingly have no end. When I am feeling bad for all the bad I brought on myself I pull down the photos from a dusty old shelf Then I can reckon the good moments with the bad And treasure warm memories of the laughter I had Then I thank God for the gift of my life Who knew that joy would not be appreciated without a little strife I thank him for the moments and glimpses in time When my life, to me, was spinning but God was putting reason to rhyme. As a child I felt such innocence and awe I found amazement in everything I touched or I saw Now half a century later I can feel that awe once again As I take a moment to view old photos of family and friends. Bible Says Psalm 47:1-2 1 Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. 2 How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! July 15, 2009 Thought for Today “There is nothing that keeps wicked men, at any one moment, out of hell, but the mere pleasure of God.” In thinking this morning about what to write, I thought about how “nicely” Pastors present the Word to churches these days. Then I thought about Jonathon Edwards and his infamous sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” I looked it up and the quote above caught my eye and rocked back in my chair a little. It caused me to think how blessed I am for at any given moment when I was running on the dark side of life, God could have should said, “Enough!” and sentenced me to Hell. Thank you Lord! Then I thought how well that sermon might be received from the pulpit today and another quotable quote came to mind from Jack Nicholson in the movie a Few Good Men. So, slightly paraphrased, this is the reason why Edwards would not be well received because, “We can’t handle the truth!” Bible Says James 1:21 “Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” July 14, 2009 Thought for Today I wonder if God makes His bed in the morning. I wonder if he ever considers skipping church. I wonder who cuts His lawn. I wonder if he reads these daily thoughts or spams them. Bible Says Exodus 15:11 11 "Who among the gods is like you, O LORD ? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? Final Thought: I bet God’s bed is truly one comfortable sleeping apparatus. July 13, 2009 Thought for Today If you would have told me eight years ago where I would be today and that it doesn’t require money to be happy I would have told you where you could put such nonsense. I have lived the last years beneath the poverty level yet longing for nothing that money can purchase which is to say, not only have my needs been met, but I am a rich man. I get to have a daily conversation with both my daughters. My dad and brothers and I play golf, for free no less. I get to congregate with fellow Christians, fellow homeless and brothers and sisters trying so desperately to be delivered from the demons of addiction. As I have said many times, I am sitting here in my home with my first cup of coffee and am writing after communing with God over coffee. Not a bad life if you ask me. Bible Says Philippians 3:12-20 12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 15All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16Only let us live up to what we have already attained. 17Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. 18For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. 20But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. July 10, 2009 Thought for Today I am learning a lot of things about the human brain. Things like, what part of the brain does this, which controls that, right brain, left brain, frontal lobe brain, effects of alcohol and drugs on the brain effects of alcohol and drugs on the unborn baby’s brain. The more I learn the more the complexities of the brain become overwhelming. I say all of the above to get to this. How can a non- believer of intelligent design take a look at the brain and believe it was a random grouping of cells that evolved over time. That would take more faith than a belief in God if you ask me and even if you don’t ask me. Bible Says Isaiah 40:12-14 12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance? 13 Who has understood the mind of the LORD, or instructed him as his counselor? 14 Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding? July 9, 2009 Thought for Today Relapse, in the world of addicts and recovery, should be viewed as an opportunity to learn, not as a shameful failure. It is difficult enough for an addict to return to the rooms and people of those recovering, without having to worry about others looking upon them as a failure. With every relapse I suffered self inflicted shame; it was not necessary for friends or family to help with that. Imagine starting a journey across the country. You load up family and things you will need to make the trip a pleasure yet find a few hours into the ride, you left your wallet at home. You have to go back home, no other choice. Do you need your family adding to the embarrassment or anger you already feel? The same is true in recovery, if someone relapses and returns they are doing enough self punishment so it would be best to look at what can be learned, rather than what was lost. Bible Says Job 10:14-16 14 If I sinned, you would be watching me and would not let my offense go unpunished. 15 If I am guilty—woe to me! Even if I am innocent, I cannot lift my head, for I am full of shame and drowned in my affliction. July 8, 2009 Thought for Today Ever wonder what God looks like? It occurred to me that when reading the Bible when I try to visualize God (impossible), I always see Him, in my mind’s eye, as one dressed in the garb of the ancient days. Do you God stays in fashion? If Jesus were to return today, would he be 2000 years behind the fashion designers? Oh yeah, and when people see aliens, do we know for sure that it is not God just getting a visual on us? Is Jesus really coming back on a horse or perhaps the technology in heaven is such that he would arrive in a very powerful star-ship. Oh well, just something to ponder, no message there. Bible Says Revelation 19:11-16 11I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. 12His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. 15Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. 16On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Final Thought: Here’s my Revelation, I like the way the Word of God tells us of the return of Jesus. July 7,2009 Thought for Today Somedays may be diamonds Somedays might well be stones But every day I cherish the morning and a few moments with God alone. The diamond days I sing His Praise The stoney days I pray and pray God listens to me either way. Bible Says Psalm 8:3-4 3 When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, 4 what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? July 6, 2009 When by John Michael Weber When did it become Ok For television adds to become risqué When did we decide That Mary can marry Mary and Clyde could marry Clyde When did it become so very cool To revamp God’s most golden rule When did adultery become the order of the day And it was quite alright as a long as we got our own way When on earth did rape become a date And when did we start allowing the abusers to escape When did I decide jeans and T’s were ok When entering God’s house any given Sunday Did I really think that God didn’t mind Or was it for my comfort that I rationalized When did I decide that to church I could be late When I would never dream of making my boss have to wait When did we decide to lower the bar And when will we decide we have gone too far Nothing wrong with a little compromise As long as it doesn’t offend the Lord’s eyes Offend Him we have, well at least that is me I have offended and continue but His stripes set me free So I think next Sunday small though it is I might leave early to the house that is His I think and this is a small thing too Perhaps I will wear a tie and not loosen it till church is through And then I will spend time thinking of others, not me And begin again taking steps for the true Deity Each journey begins with one step I am told It is a proverb perhaps centuries old So the question is not should this rededication begin The question for us all if not right now, then When? July 3, 2009 Thought for Today Think money can buy happiness? I would encourage you to ask, Michael Jackson, Elvis Pressley, Hank Williams, Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin and Jimmie Hendrix. The toxicology reports will list their cause of death as drug overdose or alcohol posioning, perhaps, but I can tell you the true cause of their death was pain. Bible Says Acts 18-23 18When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money 19and said, "Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin." July 2, 2009 Thought for Today Bad news: I am a sinner Good news: So is everyone else Better news: God loves us anyway Bible Says John 3:16 16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Final Thought “Maybe it’s time we got back to the basics of love…” Waylon Jennings Hi Warriors, This is just in from Crystal Bowen: Please pray for a little girl who just got shot in West Baltimore a block away from Charm City Church. While we're at it lets pray for Crystal Colleen and all those who stay in harms way, in West Baltimore, to bring the Good News of Jesus to those who need it so dearly. An update on Jimmy who went out of the woods and into Howard County General Hospital. His health is good and last night he set up residence with Baltimore Behavioral Health Center. Pray for his recovery from alcohol and also his safety because he is being housed in West Baltimore. Like to give a special thanks to those who helped out this month, looks like IBE Ministries is not gonna go away thanks to all of you. John Michael Weber "They won't care what we believe unless they believe that we care." |
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