Mike's Daily Blog: September, 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
September 10, 2010 Thought for Today I bet Jesus would like coffee. I bet He would like Starbuck’s, though He would probably turn the tables on the prices. I can imagine Jesus at a café with people around listening to His parables. I would like to run into Jesus one morning and buy him a cup of his choice. Jesus probably would like Honky Tonk Bars too, I think it is just that He might feel like He is on the clock at a bar. He loves the patrons of both equally though. Bible Says Luke 15:15-16 15Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Prayer Request: My friend Jude in Arizona asks for prayers for her friend Greg. Greg had the honor and joy of walking his daughter down the aisle to Holy Matrimony in Virginia and the horror of the murder of his 81 year old father on the same day. This man was killed by three teens trying to impress girls. Prophetically, following the wedding of his granddaughter, the man told the pastor, “If I had to die tonight, I would die a happy man.” Please pray for Greg and his family as they try and separate the joy from the loss. Also, pray for our youth that they can be redirected toward God all across America. September 9, 2010 Thought for Today I was thinking. I felt great relief when the snow stopped in Maryland this past winter. Greater relief when it began to warm up. A couple of years ago I felt great relief when Ike had moved on and greater relief when the sun came out and the traffic lights started working. Then, upon my arrival to Austin came the Tropical Storm Hermie or whatever its name was and how relieved I felt when the rain just stopped. I thought, wow, Noah must have been one relieved dude. Then I kept thinking. Would I appreciate the joy I have through Christ had I not known the misery brought on by running with the devil. What about you? Would you appreciate good if you knew not evil? It would be nice to stop thinking now but what about this. God somehow transcends all the above in heaven. Can you imagine not having to feel relief? I find that hard to get wrapped around but I do not find it difficult to believe that God makes it so. Bible Says Genesis 9:12-16 And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth." Prayer Requests: Please pray for 16 year old Ricky in Houston who has discovered drugs and alcohol. Pray for his deliverance. Pray for a young man on his way Pathways Recovery in LaMarque, TX. Pray for his deliverance from substance abuse. September 8, 2010 Thought for Today Sitting in JP’s Java, across the street is the Posse East One has strong, so strong, espresso, the other has hamburger feasts. College students all around roll in from the campus of UT Professors, teachers and theologians gather in the back for very brainy meets. Then there is me Taking in all I can see Wondering why God has blessed little ole me And what plans lay down the road on this awesome journey. I drink my coffee, type away Looking as if I really belong here in some strange way. It is miles and years from the “junk” and the alleys Yet I cannot help recall and be grateful that I no longer travel dark valleys. A student just finished her homework and donned her back pack Tiredly she left JP’s not knowing where the future may track No doubt she has a plan and is dedicated to make it true But God may have a different plan for her today, tomorrow or years down the road He’ll see it through. These young minds and bright eyes, what hope they spring Makes my insides jump for joy and my heart just wants to sing. He had a plan for me and I never saw it coming He has a plan for all no matter which drummer you hear drumming. My coffee is empty here at JP’s, perhaps I will wander to the Posse Or maybe up on campus where I’ll be this spring at the Southwest Seminary. I think I will let the Lord map the course and I will just take the trip Adios to y’all today and until tomorrow, stay in the Lord and do not lose your grip. Bible Says Hebrews 11:39-40 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. September 7, 2010 Thought for Today I was thinking, Jesus really never had the chance to have old friends, did he. I sat talking to an old friend last night about good times and bad and where we are now. Easy to do when you’re 50 somethin’. Jesus just wasn’t around long enough to do that. Do you think he ever had the equivalent of a High School Reunion? 33 years on Earth and a 3 year ministry that impacted the world forever and saved us forever.IBE Ministries is just over three now and I hope will be around for years to come and that it will impact many, but it will never stand up to the Glory of Jesus, but we can strive to do all for the Glory of God. 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? Prayers: Warriors! First the good news. I saw first hand the work of God this past weekend. Remember Jeremy whom you have been praying for over a year now. The bone marrow transplant worked and he is well on the mend and fishing. He caught the biggest catfish Saturday! Also, my granddaughter is surrounded by love and so much fun! Now the bad news. I have a lot of requests and I will protect the people and not post their names but a young woman died from a heroin overdose, a family has one in their midst who needs your prayers. Let me just ask that we all pray for those desperate hearts addicted and the ones who have to bear the pain for them. Amen? Amen! September 3, 2010 Thought for Today One has to be creative when doing a “road trip” alone. I must look like an aged idiot at times. When I hear a song I like I sing out loud and sometimes drum or air guitar, safely of course. I have made this run from Maryland to Texas in both directions many, many times and it never ceases to amaze me the new things I see. By new I don’t mean a new McDonalds, I mean I notice natural things that escaped me before. Always I am reminded that we are blessed with a beautiful, magnificent country, with beautiful and magnificent people. Our God is truly an Awesome God! Bible Says Psalm 119:64 “The earth is filled with your love, O LORD; teach me your decrees.” PS: Due to traveling and bouncing my granddaughter on my knee, and Labor Day, the TfT’s will resume on Tuesday. Till then Peace and God Bless you all. September 2, 2010 Thought for Today It is time to go. There is a certain magic about a car full of your belongings, a tank of gas, and a trip across a large cut of America. On my journey back to Maryland a few years ago it was November, Sunday morning, gray and rainy and I was about halfway across Tennessee and I wasn’t feeling that magic at all. God most surely knew that because for the next three hours I heard some of the best down home preachin’ I have ever heard. When the preachin’ stopped so did the rain and the magic was back. I pray the Lord is my pilot on this long road home and that I don’t miss His works along the way. Bible Says Judges 18:5-6 5 Then they said to him, "Please inquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful." 6 The priest answered them, "Go in peace. Your journey has the LORD's approval." Please Make a Note: New Address is IBE Ministries, Inc. PO Box 143141 Austin, TX 78714 September 1, 2010 Hellos I live no more goodbyes I will live just hellos Hellos make me high Goodbyes sink me low I think Hawaii has it right Whether saying good morning Or saying goodnight Either way you say it feels so right No more goodbyes that only bring fears No more sad so longs that only bring tears Aloha my friends, my loved ones and then No doubt in my mind I will say Aloha to you once again. Bible Says 1 Peter 2:20-21 20But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. August 31, 2010 Thought for Today Gather at the river folks Sing praises to the Lord. Read your Bible now and then If you are feeling bored. Tell a friend what God has done Then you are evangelical. Love your neighbor as yourself For that is truly Biblical. It is simple really but not always Something done with ease. Sometimes a lot of prayer’s required because Being Christian can be hard on the knees. Bible Says Matthew 22:38-40 “This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." August 30, 2010 Thought for Today When your faith waivers, rely on mine, for there will no doubt be a day when I will need to rely on yours. Bible Says Ephesians 2:19 “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household,…” Donations I know I said I wouldn’t ask again but there is today and tomorrow still left in August, so please don’t wait, don’t hesitate, if it’s on your heart then please donate. “Help us, help them!” August 27, 2010 Thought for Today Moving is bitter sweet. There is the mourning of the ones you leave behind and the excitement of the ones you will meet on down the line. Bible Says Ecclesiastes 3:4 …a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance… August 26, 2010 Thought for Today Normal people assume addicts understand things that they don’t. Addicts assume normal people understand things that they can’t. I would like to be a bridge over the great divide of misunderstanding for after all, I am just a normal addict. Bible Says Proverbs 18:8 He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers. Prayer Requests: Please pray for a young man in PA, who is leaving a 90 treatment center and going to a sober home. He needs prayers as he adjusts to new surroundings. And prayers that he continues to make good decisions in his new situation. Please pray for a dear friend who has been found to have a brain aneurism. Surgery will be needed, so pray for the doctors as well as my friend. August 25, 2010 Thought for Today I spent years being way too intellectually superior, in my mind, to those who bought into the illogical idea of God. Over those same years I burned up a lot of those, “superior” brain cells. Just enough brain cells, perhaps, to allow me to see past logic and believe in what I cannot see and allow myself faith. Glad I am not so darned “smart” anymore. Bible Says Isaiah 29:14 “Therefore once more I will astound these people with wonder upon wonder; the wisdom of the wise will perish, the intelligence of the intelligent will vanish.” Prayer Request: Please pray for a young man in Connecticut and his family. He is the son of an old high school friend and is struggling greatly with addiction to oxycontin and heroin. Pray that God touch the young man and that his family finds support as they undergo this battle. Please pray for my friend in Arizona and for a family healing for all her siblings and mother. Pray for peace for them. Please pray for a young man right here in Maryland, he is struggling with his diabetes and much too young to be enduring such pain in his life. Pray that his medications get properly prescribed and that he can properly keep up with the administration of the drugs. Pray for his mom his is a dear friend of mine and I know is in great pain over the pain of her son. August 24, 2010 Thought for Today If God waited on people to choose Him, He would no doubt be a lonely God. Bible Says John 15:15-17 15I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 17This is my command: Love each other. Reminders: Maryland: Monday night August 30 @ 7pm, Grace Community Church I will present a powerpoint presentation on the Birth of Addiction. Texas: Saturday September 11, we are honored to be at New Creations Bookstore in Deer Park at 3pm, signing books. To All: Final week in the fundraising drive to keep IBE fruitful here in Maryland and rooted in Texas. Please help us, help them and every dime helps. August 23, 2010 School Daze School days, school days confusing, unamusing, chaotic haze, those days Up in the morning and taking a pill, a promise not to skip but knowing I will All the lockers, jockers and hallways and freaks, except for the due diligent front row seated and educated geeks I try and try to unfog the haze as I navigate the halls of the scholarly maze My hair wasn’t right, my pants too loose or too tight and all I can dream of is what awaits me that night Man, I missed a test and then of course I just dismissed the rest There’s always tomorrow to deal with today’s sorrow I am short on cash I’ll have to steal or borrow But I will pay back, someday that I swear but for now I need what I want how I get it I don’t care My girl doesn’t like me but no surprise cause neither do I and so I just make her cry and that makes me wonder why. Even my friends from first grade have left me behind and gone their own way, that’s ok, never asked them to stay, cause what would I do if they had, I have nothing to offer nothing good that is only bad. Bad fits me on the outside but inside rips me apart causing nothing but scars where once was a heart. Schools out for real now I can go home, which is cool cause it’s another place I can be all alone. I’ll have to face mom and eventually dad and lately their eyes reflect nothing but sad and that is because they have given up being mad. I love them you know as best as I know, but it is hard to love anyone when you are dragging so low. I hate that they hurt, I hate that I am the cause and I feel lower than dirt. School days, school days I will not miss them and old times I won’t praise That is of course, if there is another side, another side to my life from which I need not hide Oh well, I ramble and no sense do I make, it is time now for me another pill I must take The pills don’t fix me, but make me forget, all the pain and the misery and the things I regret So one drug for this and another for that, one for happy another for sad Up I go, down I go in hope to balance the load and level the journey on my long winding road. Now I lay me down but doubt I will sleep, and I ask the Lord my poor soul would he keep I ask to make me stronger for most surely I am weak Would that I would die sometime in the night, show me a place with no more darkness just light. If I somehow survive again and see the sunlight, I ask for a miracle to make my insides feel right. School dazed, school confused and school without the golden rules I will try it once more and continue the mystery and hopefully relax and learn math and English and history. From the month of September in the book From Junk to Jesus: Ponders, Passions and Poems. Bible Says Proverbs 5:12-14 12 You will say, "How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction! 13 I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors. 14 I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly." August 20, 2010 Thought for Today People are so cool. I not only love people I need them, I thrive upon the energy put forth by those I am around. I could write a book, that would rival the Bible as far as page numbers, about the many and varied ways I get a kick out of people. What was that old song, “People, people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world…” See, I am one of the luckiest people in the world! Bible Says Luke 13:29-30 “People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last." Prayer Request: Please pray for Brian whose tenant has fallen off the wagon and refuses to leave or get the help he needs. Please pray for Craig and his parents, as heroin has him in its grips. In both situations, pray for Gods healing hands of love and that His wisdom prevails. Donations: Just a weekly reminder of the needs of IBE Ministry. Please help us help them…One week to go! August 19, 2010 Thought for Today Lord could you make me a better man? Make me be just the way you planned Teach me love and to understand That you have everything in hand. Could you make me a better dad? A better son than my father’s had Could you stop me short before I am bad Lift me up when I’m feeling sad. Oh Lord please hear me pray Even if I’m not sure just what to say Could you give us all a brighter day And keep all the pain away? Some fine day we’ll all be with you Cause I believe in what you say that’s true You’ll take us home when the day is through I am so glad that’s what you plan to do. Bible Says Matthew 24:30-31 "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” August 18, 2010 Thought for Today I witnessed a miracle last night. I was at an AA meeting for a one year celebration of a young lady. At this meeting, which was full, were young people and when I say young I am not talking about early twenties, I mean young like from 14 years old and up. I have seen many miracles in AA, but this rates very high when I think of my youth and wonder whether or not I could have gotten sober as a teenager and realize, probably not. It gives me hope that right here in our community a movement of sorts is developing. It is great thing to see teenagers that are sober and having fun and talking about bright futures and huge dreams. I thought to myself, “Man I feel like a grandfather in this group.” Then reality caught and I realized, “Hey, I am a grandfather!” Bible Says Psalm 144:12 Then our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace. August 17, 2010 Simple Man I am a simple man with a complicated mind I wish for black and white but the colors intertwine. Don’t want to be so complicated Don’t want my thoughts integrated Wish I could keep them separated I am a simple man with a complicated mind. I am a simple man with a not so simple twist I wish things could be like that, but they always seem like this I like a straight line route but crooked is what I get. I’d like to meet a simple woman but have not met one yet. I’d like to make all my movements count and live with no regret. I am a simple man with a not so simple twist. I am a simple man with a very simple Lord A God that understands while others are busy, I might be quite bored. A simple God with simple love Delivered to me from Heaven above When my simple mind goes chaotic, He gives a loving shove I am a simple man with a very simple God. Bible Says Psalm 116:5-7 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. 7 Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you. August 16, 2010 Thought for Today In looking back, the sadness of my life can outweigh the happiness. In looking presently, no matter the sadness, no matter the happiness, neither outweighs the joy in my heart. Bible Says 1 Peter 1:7-9 These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. August 13, 2010 Reasons to Keep Got a lot of reasons to drink and a lot of reasons to fix dope Got a lot of reasons not to think and I just need something to cope Never deal with today what I can put off till tomorrow I am in no hurry at all to face all the sorrow Got a lot of reasons to get high I don’t know, Lord it helps me to get by. Been a lot years wasted because wasted I was Been a lot of years and tears cried because, well because Never planned to hurt anyone but hurt them did I Never meant to cause my children to cry Been a lot of years and I wore people down Been a lot of years of second chances, now they don’t want me around. Got a lot of reasons to keep doing what I do Got a lot of reasons to keep wishing life was through Not so many reasons to improve that I see No one has any reasons or care left to waste upon me. Do I think I am worthy, well the answer is nope. I find myself void without faith, love and hope. Oh that I could find reasons through the tears that I weep Oh that someone would show me that I have a reason to keep. There are thousands of addicts that woke up, or came to, this morning with the feelings I just wrote down. Added to those thousands, more will be added this morning, more desperate hearts to take the place of the hundreds, that will not wake up this morning, because they tried too hard and their reasons, to keep going, required too much of the drug that kept them going from one day to the next, and they died trying to kill the pain. I dedicate my life, as thousands of others do, to helping those desperate hearts everywhere. I have been Blessed beyond human reason and I do not take that lightly. So from now till the Lord takes me home, I will fight the demons of addiction. I will shout from the highest of mountains, to the lowest of dark alleys, how Christ rescued me and can and will rescue thousands this morning. I will forever be seeking those with passionate hearts, to join forces to combat substance abuse, knowing how badly the odds are against us and knowing also that God is the Commander and Chief and through Him all things are possible. I will dream big, for I believe that to dream small is an effort to limit God who is limitless. I am a soldier in the Army of the Lord along with many others. I beseech you warriors, help us help them! “Thanks for letting me share.” Bible Says Matthew 17:14-20 When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. "Lord, have mercy on my son," he said. "He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him." "O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me." Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” August 12, 2010 Thought for Today Is it possible to be prideful and humble at the same time? I can be proud of an accomplishment and celebrate my self-involvement in the task. The minute I think that I am humble, I am not. This makes me think of balance and balance is a desired element in my life but one that is quite elusive. Bible Says Proverbs 18:12 Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. August 11, 2010 Thought for Today Thinking we have the power to change another human being is much like playing God, is it not? The best we can do is present an example and put our hope for change into our faith in God. “God grant me serenity…” Bible Says 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. August 10, 2010 Thought for Today Getting drunk is mentioned quite a few times in the Bible. When reading about those who got drunk in the ancient days, one does not get a picture of sitting quietly on a beautiful beach with a Corona. That being said, when Noah got drunk it changed the course of mankind. When Lot got drunk he woke up as a father and grandfather to the same children. The only time being drunk is mentioned in a positive light in the Bible, is when one becomes drunk in the Spirit of God. Bible Says Ephesians 5:17-18 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. August 9, 2010 Promised God I promised God I wouldn’t use that day I meant it too, but I did it anyway Couldn’t resist no matter how hard I prayed Stood up the wife and kids on the day I got paid. I promised God never ever again But that very evening I gave into that sin I fought the temptation but I could not win As the needle found my vein just beneath my thin skin. I promised God but never asked for His aid Tried to resist all alone and a heavy price got paid Shot down was every plan that I made To get things together and stay away from decay. Then one day I didn’t promise God I wouldn’t I was on a cold basement floor I wanted a shot but knew I shouldn’ t. I tried to find the words for God but somehow I couldn’t So I cried out to Jesus, hoping He would hear but so sure that He wouldn’t. Then Christ said to, “Come to me, you are tired and need rest, Take my yoke for it is light upon you and you require the best My heart is gentle and with me you’ll find no test Come to me my child and I will fulfill your endless quest.” Now on the morn’ I promise God to seek him first I promise God to call on Him when my spirit is dry with thirst I promise when things go bad I won’t wait until they’re worst Now every day I wake up and seek my Lord and Savior first. Bible Says Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." August 6, 2010 Thought for Today Too far to the left, too far to the right Sitting on the fence or just plain outta’ sight Y’all are all wrong and we are all correct Those in the middle shake their heads and say, “Ah, heck…” Taxes too high, pay is way too low But we’re in the best country in the world so where can we go? Then there are the pundits, who on earth are they? That is a word I know not of nor thought I’d ever say. Democrats, diplomats, Republicans and fat cats Doin’ this to pay for that I wonder where the money’s at. From one election to the next campaigns never end By the way have you seen the tab on the money campaigns spend? I don’t know much at all but something seems amiss Do we remember in the 1800’s when the country divided like this? Where’s Bob Dylan when you need him and his politics with rhyme Where’s Willie and Waylon and Luekenbach cause maybe it is truly time. Time I say to love your neighbor as much as you love you Time to quit campaigning and take some action that is true. Time to not focus on the difference, but on what we have in common Time to put into play some Proverbs laid down by Solomon. Oh say can you see, what we’re liable to be If we do not unite and regain our liberty! Let us remain one nation under God Feeling this un-united split feels quite odd. So if we can get back, to the basics of life Perhaps we can lay down, all this anger and this strife. It is simple don’t you see, but sometimes hard to be free But free we can remain but not as I, not as you, but together as WE! August 5, 2010 Thought for Today Lord, let there be peace for those who war today Let there be hope for those who lost their way. Let there be songs of joy from sea to mountain Let there be waters for the thirsty from your endless fountain. Lord let there be something for you Let us all recognize the good things you do. Let us not quarrel over who knows you best Let us simply agree that Lord you are the Best. Bible Says Psalm 119:26-27 I recounted my ways and you answered me; teach me your decrees. Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders. August 4, 2010 Thought for Today In case you haven’t picked up on this, I love to write. I also love to read. The best book there is, to me, is the Bible, which is odd because I had to be dragged to its first page kicking and screaming. I realize now, that for years upon my shelf, gathering dust, was a mystical magical, wonderful journey waiting for me to explore by opening the leather bound cover. It has it all, suspense, love, murder, war stories, heroes and villains. Who knew? Careful though, take it from a recovering addict, once you get into it, getting out of it takes effort. Bible Says Jeremiah 33:2-3 This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” August 3, 2010 Thought for Today I do not believe I was truly sober until I could genuinely celebrate someone else’s joy or truly feel someone else’s pain. A huge weight was lifted from me when God allowed me to see that it really isn’t all about me. Bible Says Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. August 2, 2010 Thought for Today Opposites may very well attract, at least if you are a magnet. Two negatives, however, will not make a positive. Two positives contrarily, will give you more positive. So, since I am not a magnet, it would be better to be surrounded by positive people, if I want more positive in my life. Bible Says Romans 12:11-13 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. July 30, 2010 Scars Every scar tells a story Some hide shame and some shout glory Wounded flesh and darkened hearts Every scar is the end of a violent start. Every scar has history Some scars recent, some are mysteries Some scarred near death, some skin deep Every scar burns and makes one weep. Every scar turns a page Leaving behind the origin of rage Healed by time are scars of flesh Wounded hearts need longer for the tissue to mesh. Every scar tells a story But no story outshines the King of Glory By His wounds we are healed By His death the deal is sealed. Every scar on Christ was bleeding When He gave Satan what he was needing A stern comeuppance for his insurrection Christ healed His scars and mine on the Resurrection. Bible Says Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. July 29, 20110 Reminder Let me take this opportunity to remind those of you in Maryland, about Sunday’s Pizza Hut Extravaganza at 2pm at the Pizza Hut on Rt 29 and 108 at 2pm. Come help us celebrate the gift of helping families with substance abuse issues. Let me remind all of you that we still need donations to move forward and keep IBE in a position to provide services. Help us help them! Thanks to the few who heeded the earlier request, your donations are greatly appreciated by IBE and the families we help. You can mail checks to: IBE Ministries PO Box 123 Woodbine, MD. 21797 Or online at www.intheblinkofaneyeministries.com Thought for Today The ultimate vision of IBE Ministries is to open an adolescent recovery ranch. This ranch would or will consist of space enough for at least 12 young men, 12 young ladies and six staff member to live. The ranch would also have an onsite church, “The IBE Church of the Lost and Found.” A team of medical volunteers. Finally, 36 horses to be utilized for equine therapy. The cost to parents who have already spent thousands trying to rescue their teens would be $0. One of the most frustrating things I deal with in this ministry is when a parent calls with concern about their child is that I have to say, “Do you have insurance, because that is the only way to get an adolescent inpatient treatment.” Even if they have insurance the odds of finding an empty bed in one of the treatment facilities are slim. That is why IBE Ministries is now and will always be dedicated to providing care, comfort and solutions without parents having to ask, “How much is this going to cost?” Bible Says Isaiah 55:1 "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Just So Ya Know The average salary of an NFL football player this year will be $770,000. That is enough money to provide food, shelter, clothing, life education, spiritual education and other skills to 770 men at the Helping Up Mission for a full year. July 28, 2010 Thought for Today I think it not wise, when someone is in the midst of a struggle to tell them, “It could be worse.” I think perhaps telling them “It will get better,” might be more of an encouragement. Bible Says Romans 5:3-5 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. On the Other Hand… Sometimes when reminded of where I have been, which was far worse than where I am, I know that things could be worse… July 27, 2010 Thought for Today I was never good at math, but I excelled at compounding problems. I am not an interior decorator, but could always make my exterior look suitable, while my interior was crumbling. I made average grades in English, but could manipulate words to fit my needs with a masterful skill. My penmanship was chicken scratch yet I could sign my mom’s name, on school documents, as if I were an expert in forgery. Now, well now I thank God for His Grace! Bible Says Ephesians 4:22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness July 26, 2010 One is Not the Loneliest Number I can live now without the pain From solitude, no longer need I refrain The lonely nights now I embrace I long no more for leather or lace or to touch a tender face. I wait no more for my next fix One is not the loneliest number for there is nothing to mix No fear have I of a broken heart No questions of where to stop and when to start. I am not afraid of my company I can look at me now and like what I see No need for acceptance of another My feelings need not be medicated or smothered. A mere child of yours God is what I am I sleep now in your arms like a gentle found lamb I awake with me and say good morning to Thee And thank you for an evening that was trouble free. One is not the loneliest number for one is never alone I had to seek solitude and embrace it, before I was shown Shown that God is always with me and was there before And will be with me tomorrow, and His love I do adore. Bible Says Psalm 4:7-8 You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound. I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. July 23, 2010 Thought for Today Try as I might, this morning no thoughts of wisdom or whimsy come to mind. I sit quietly drinking coffee and waiting on God to put some thought in my head to pass on, and yet none come to mind. I must draw from this that on some mornings with the Lord, He just wants me to be silent, appreciate the quiet and no that He is there. So good morning all…May God Bless your day! Bible Says Psalm 143:8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. IBE News We have been blessed to have Diane Sinnott join the IBE Team. She will be the Director of Operations and the voice of IBE Ministries in Maryland when I leave for Texas. We are fortunate to find someone with her passion to keep the IBE wheels turning in Maryland. Also two reminders: Don’t forget the Pizza Hut Extravaganza on August 1, 2010 at 2pm at the 108-29 location in Columbia. Second, we still need money! Your donations make the difference and help us help them and like any business, we have operating needs. Have a GREAT DAY! July 22, 2010 Thought for Today I’ve got my Lord on speed dial He’s on my family plan I can talk to him unlimited by minutes Number one of my 5 Favs, I am a huge, huge fan. We talk about the weather We talk about the war He listens when I talk about things That I have talked about before. I always get 3G’s with Him And I don’t know what that means I always get green bars And my calls He never screens. Hey, I gotta run my friends There is a call I need to make Text me if you need me But I’ll be on the phone with God for Heaven’s sake! Bible Says Psalm 17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer. July 21, 2010 Thought for Today I suppose, if one must cry over spilt milk, then one must cry and so be it, as long as one is cleaning up the milk that spilled whilst shedding the tears. Bible Says Proverbs 24:16 …for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity. July 20, 2010 Thought for Today If there is something in my life that I seek council on and I keep seeking said council until I find someone who agrees with me, there are two things I can be sure of: 1. I already had my mind made up to do whatever it was I sought advice on and 2. I shouldn’t hadn’t oughta be doing it… Bible Says 1 John 1:7 “But 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.” July 19, 2010 Thought for Today When life seems tough and you feel much despair Call Jesus, his lines never busy he’ll always be there. When you have a great day and things went your way And you get home alone with no one to share the happiest of days. Call Jesus, he’ll share the joy with you in unfathomed ways. Alone, in a crowd, in the silence and when its loud In the grayest of gray or the silver lined clouds Call Jesus he’ll hear you alone Or in the midst of the crowds. Call Jesus in the morning, call Jesus at night When the day is going badly or the day goes just right Call when you prosper, call when prosperity is out of sight Call Jesus for no matter the darkness, he’ll shed Holy light. Bible Says Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Prayer Request Please pray for the health and well being of our friend John, who is in the middle of the Sudan working. July 16, 2010 Thought for Today I saw a list of the best places to live in the USA. I think the best place to live in the USA is close to your family. I think it a shame that families get scattered across the land in search of better homes, better jobs, more money only to have a gaping hole in your heart where your loved ones used to inhabit. Such is the American way of life, but we should not be surprised that there has been a breakdown in family values. Sorry folks, it is just one of those mornings when I miss my daughters and my new granddaughter. Bible Says 1Timothy 5:7-9 Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. Then I Thought: Sometimes, the choice is not ours on how we provide for our family. If providing food, shelter and security for my family requires me to go to the other end of the Earth, there shall I go. That is if it is God who sends me there. July 15, 2010 Thought for Today In the seasons of change in one’s life, there are times when the words and fellowship of another human being suffice to quell the fear of change. Then there are those times when only the promise of God can bring peace. Bible Says Hebrews 13:5-6 "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" July 14, 2010 Thought for Today At the risk of being so political If not just mad and downright cynical I think I must protest the state of our great nation For we are not so free and it’s a weird sensation. It seems we have a king and not a king of one We have a king called government that’s why we’re so undone America for the people, I heard that once somewhere But these days I fear to write these words, lest a traitor I could be declared. As they sit upon the hill, looking at us and crying ill Can they really sip their scotch as statesmen and conjure up the next new bill The magic bill that’s good for us, cause we don’t know and they know better Have mercy on us one and all ‘cause they’re not reading our letters. America the beautiful has become a little stained And we watch and scream and they listen not to cries of those in pain Republicans, Democrats one is better than the other and that’s just that Which one is better, depends on which four years you’re at. PHD’s, Philosophers, the wisest of the wise Looking upon the masses that they truly must despise, Above us looms a king and the king can be wrong as wrong We over took a king before and I hope they remember freedom songs. So this little rant goes out to all of those on the hill full of gold I bet you don’t walk among us, when the streets have gone bitter and cold It is good you carve out on earth your little piece of heaven For this will be as good as it gets for sins that go beyond the deadly seven. If you are way too smart to believe in God and that is why you reign Let me point out to you, what you know to be insane I refer to those who know better than me and I refer to you all And I refer you, in my intellectual inadequacy, to the great Apostle Paul: 1 Corinthians 1:18-19 For 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. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." I love America and the freedom it provides And I do not want to see it slip away and stand so idly by So I write a word or maybe two And feel a little better how about you? And I know when all is said and all is done America will never really become undone In God We Trust and United We Will Stand And shine the light of freedom On every child, every woman, every man. July 13, 2010 Thought for Today I have found through trial and error, after error, after error, that it does absolutely no good for me to give a problem up to God, and then to keep taking it back from Him. Bible Says Matthew 11:29-30 ”Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." July 12, 2010 Thought for Today Persecution, prosecution, execution Jesus suffered these for me So when I whine about my condition I remember I have suffered none of those three. Alienation, humiliation, aggravation The world took their shots at our Savior And when I stomp my feet to get my way If I remember He suffered, it changes my behavior. Adoration, meditation, congregation These I partake in for my Lord’s sake To keep me close to the Lord My God And when it’s time for me to go, I pray my soul He takes. Bible Says 1 Corinthians 12:9-12 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Prayer Request: Jeremy, whom you have been praying for, had his bone marrow transplant and all seemed well, not so now. He is back in Texas Children’s with liver complications among other ailments and needs our prayers to continue. July 9, 2010 Thought for Today TGIF! “Thank God It’s Friday!” A friend and coworker once pointed out that we should thank “God It’s Any Day” and I concur. Still, there is something about working hard all week and then when Friday comes you know you have a break coming. This got me to thinking that when I was addicted to heroin, I never, ever got a day off. I didn’t even get a few hours off because every moment was spent working towards the next shot. So certainly, now, “Thank God It’s Friday,” but I will add, “Thank God I’m Sober!” Bible Says John 6:27 “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval." July 8, 2010 Thought for Today There is much ado about human cloning, stem cell research and genetic tampering in general. At some point we decided it was ok to tamper with God’s design of the human body and mind. I personally trace this back to the invention of the alarm clock. Think about it, if we have to have a device to drag us out of a restful sleep, we are obviously not finished sleeping. In summation, I have found it much better to wake up than to be awakened. Bible Says Psalm 3:4-5 To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. Selah I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. July 7, 2010 Jabez by JMW When there comes a time that I may have doubt When I don’t think God is listening and I feel I have to shout When I think no difference can I make And I feel rather useless for Heaven’s sake! During times like these God taps me on the shoulder Sometimes He taps a little harder when my heart runs colder He points me to His Word and I look at what he says And when I feel small I always find Jabez. Jabez entered the world through his mother’s pain A nondescript nobody, honorable but plain God squeezed him into 1 Chronicles with only a line or two That little prayer he said, would reach millions the whole world through. He asked God to expand his boundaries and to keep him free from harm And I remember he was but one small man when my doubt sets off alarms. So I wonder if Jabez ever thought, a book he would inspire I wonder what the odds are I would be writing about him this very hour? Can I make a difference, is God listening to me I think I would have to say yes and recite the Jabez plea. “Oh Lord that you may bless me, expand my territory And that your hand be upon me and from harm keep me free.” God granted Jabez this request and all he did was ask So for me to remember that God is listening should not be a wary task. We are all making a difference and God listens to all prayer And maybe there is hope for one and all through God’s loving hand of care. Bible Says 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request July 6, 2010 Thought for Today Can you imagine a world without babies and kids? Me neither. I think God set it up so that when there are kids and babies around, we can revisit the kid in us without looking stupid. Bible Says Mark 10:13-15 People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." July 5, 2010 Thought for Today All immigrants do not bring drugs and mayhem to the United States. Some bring the hope of a new life and the same dream many of us have, that we can provide for our children, so that they have it better than we did. I suppose the trick is to make it easier for those who wish to have a new life and much harder for those who wish to enhance their evil life. The 4th of July made me think, “Who would not want to come here?” Bible Says Deuteronomy 34: 4 Then the LORD said to him, "This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob when I said, 'I will give it to your descendants.' I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it." July 2, 2010 Thought for Today Yesterday I spent 3 hrs in the morning telling guys with various lengths of clean time at the Helping Up Mission, all about how God delivered me from addiction. I always go there because it is my hallowed ground, my ground zero where the lord lifted my shell of a body up and gave it a soul. I go there in hopes of instilling hope in some of these guys and because I don’t believe I was rescued from the gates of Hell to remain silent about the miracle. I go there, with good intentions of giving these guys something, and every time leaving with more than I brought to the table. Is God Awesome or what? Bible Says Acts 20:35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Then I say: OK that verse is a conundrum for me for no matter how much I give, I receive more back, what am I to do. Read on… 2 Corinthians 9:6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Proverbs 11:24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. Finally: OK, my dilemma is relieved and Jesus knew whereof he spoke, it is better to give than receive because both parties win. Jesus is all about “win-win” scenarios. July 1, 2010 Yankee Doodle I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy A Yankee Doodle do or die I get goose bumps when they play the anthem And tears of joy trickle from my eyes. I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy A Yankee Doodle patriot for sure A member of one nation under God Indivisible, proud and pure. I’ve got a Yankee Doodle heartbeat A Yankee Doodle tried and true I defend my Yankee Doodle homeland And I’ll defend her, Yankee Doodle style through and through. I am proud of our Yankee Doodle Soldiers In Iraq and Afghanistan this very day And all the Yankee Doodle Soldiers Stationed here or in countries far away. I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy I salute our Yankee Doodle freedom and I will tell you why Not so very long ago because of Yankee Doodle Soldiers Our sacred freedom was born on the 4th of July! To the men and women stationed here and abroad, please know that your service to your country, to us, is neither forgotten nor unappreciated. Keep waving the Flag for you are those Yankee Doodle Dandies! May God bring peace to the war and you all home to your families. Bible Says Psalm 110:3 Your troops will be willing on your day of battle. Arrayed in holy majesty, from the womb of the dawn you will receive the dew of your youth. June 30, 2010 Thought for Today Hope springs eternal for the faithful. In the worst of times there is a spiritual undercurrent that all will be well. When troubles faced and overcome, that rumbling undercurrent becomes rolling thunder and the joy of the Lord shines. Bible Says James 1:2-4 2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. June 29, 2010 Diamond in the Rough by John Michael Weber The heroin quit working magic At a crossroads I then stood. Living like that was an option no more Dying would be fine, if I could. A pharmaceutical ladder I had climbed And now had reached the very last rung. Every time I tried to escape the pain The same old song was sung. Now at the crossroads My fate spread out before me sure. I could not take a step And wished no more my life to endure. I felt my body weaken like soft clay matter My mind no longer thought or minded. I was falling to the dusty road As my life before me unwinded. Before my knees hit the ground I felt a lifting of body and spirit. And a voice so soft yet heard so loud said “I’ve got you now it is not time for you to quit.” In times of weakening to this day When I believe my life is tough. I just recall the day at the crossroads When my Lord saved a diamond in the rough. Bible Says Psalm 138:8 "The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.”- June 28, 2010 Thought for Today When God gives me an inch I must not try and stretch it to a mile. Bible Says Romans 8: 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. PS: It is time for an IBE Pizza Hut Party! I am taking suggestions on a good weekend or even someone to organize the thing. We have much to report on the past year and the year to come. June 25, 2010 Thought for Today Do you ever get the feeling that God can see you better at church? Do you ever get the feeling that God can hear you better at church? Have you ever left church, then five miles down the road act as if you are far enough away that God cannot see you or hear you anymore? Bible Says Jeremiah 23:24 “Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?" declares the LORD. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" declares the LORD. June 24, 2010 Thought for Today Satan said to me one day, “I cannot tempt beyond your desires See you provide the sparks It is only for me to fan the fires. I cannot make you do anything I can only show you the spoils So don’t blame me dear lad For all your woes and troubles and toils.” When he was through I was stunned My life’s despair became my fault Then from somewhere deep in my mind A scripture was released from my memory vault. So I looked at Satan and said this prayer As it is written in Matthew’s book And at the verse below Satan turned and left Never giving me a second look: “And do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.” Amen. June 23, 2010 Thought for Today When I am weak He makes me strong He steers me right when I go wrong When I am sad He gives me song And He does this all the day long! Bible Says Isaiah 40:31 “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” June 22, 2010 Thought for Today If you can recall the worst day of your life it means that you got through it somehow. Bible Says Psalm 121:7-8 “The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” June 21, 2010 Thought for Today In the pursuit of happiness, it is easy to get so caught up in the destination, that we miss a wonderful journey. Bible Says Numbers 33:2 At the LORD's command Moses recorded the stages in their journey. June 18, 2010 Thought for Today Ever get that exasperating feeling and that seemingly hopeless thought of, “What is it all about and what does it have to do with me?” I believe it is then that I better take a seat ‘cause God is fixin’ to tell me. Bible Says Proverbs 19:21 21 Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. June 17, 2010 Thought for Today As Father’s Day approaches I cannot help but lament over those who never knew their father or perhaps, did not grow up with the best of paternal relationships. To those I can only say, look to the heaven’s this Sunday, you do have a Father. Bible Says 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.” Prayer Request Please pray for Sheila and her daughter Rita in the UK. Rita is a young girl going through some serious heart tests. June 16, 2010 Splendor Lost & Glory Found by John Michael Weber As a child I lost things that I would not miss for years As a child it amazes me how quickly dried were tears As a child it is quite strange how changed became my fears As a child the world was oh so richly sweet and filled with rosy mirrors. Wordsworth would have me learn from things lost to the past Things that filled me up oh so, they did, but never seemed to last Gain strength William said and embrace what thou now hathst Recall perhaps with fond, not painful memories of the splendor in the grass. I have given much of late, time spent to understand The God I know the Savior I love the Spirit so Holy Grand And though understanding escapes me true, the search makes a better man And God’s Divine Providence reminds me that my life was always in God’s hands. So when I think of childhood days and the sunny, funny days of youth When I think of all the things that I did and said uncouth And the splendor lost and glory found and the never ending search for truth I can fear not, nor shed a tear for the Providence of the Lord my anxt it doth surely soothe. Bible Says Job 10:12 You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit. June 15, 2010 Thought for Today After yesterday’s Thought for Today, the struggle of being what God wants us to be surfaced from a friend. This prompted me to pose this question: “If we are to believe in Divine Providence would it not be true that at any given moment, we are exactly what God wants us to be?” Your interaction on this hot topic is encouraged, give us your thoughts. Bible Says Luke 12:24 24Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! June 14, 2010 Thought for Today We teach how important it is to be yourself and yet so many take that step to be themselves and get frowned upon by society, that they may decide being someone else is less painful. It is like saying, “Be you, as long as you are like everyone else.” Bible Says Proverbs 6:5 Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of a fowler. June 11, 2010 Thought for Today There are those mornings when I just and must sit still And wait for God to impose His will For I feel if I move even an inch or too I’ll be out of the way when His message comes through. Bible Says Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” June 10, 2010 Thought for Today Once upon a song my heart did miss a beat Once upon a wandering night a stranger did I meet Once upon a prayer I asked to be complete Once upon a Savior the song sang true and sweet. Bible Says Psalm 42:7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. June 9, 2010 Thought for Today Isn’t it true these days that it is easier to find a bar, pornography and drugs while driving through Anytown, USA, than it is to find a church? Isn’t it true, that traffic jams never occur on Sunday, and 90+ percent of America claims Christianity as their religion? That being the case, are we surprised that sex, drugs and alcohol are much more utilized that the Church? Bible Says Matthew 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Then I Thought: I guess the same held true back in the days when Jesus was here on Earth! June 8, 2010 Thought for Today It is better to act, in any given situation, free of anger and buy time for a just outcome, than to react and feed the anger and waste time, losing the opportunity for growth. Bible Says Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath But a harsh word stirs up anger. Prayer Request and Update: Please pray for Chad, a young man trying hard to stay sober while cleaning up the wreckage of his past. Here’s and update on Jeremy in Texas you all have prayed for through his wait for a bone marrow transplant: Jeremy is engrafting and doing so good. We are waiting for "special" tests to insure this is not Jeremy's marrow growing. We need this to be the "german mans" marrow growing. God Bless this donor in Germany. He is a saint. Saved Jeremy's life.... Thank you for the PATIENCE, prayers . love us June 7, 2010 Thought for Today When the fog lifts and the smoke settles and the damage is so very clear It is amazing how fast a dollar or two can be raised for just one beer! With one beer down you see much better but the pain is stronger than before When one beer doesn’t do the trick, then the obvious solution is more. The morning now has just come to life and you don’t shake quite so bad And the desperate search for the cleanest needle begins from the last shot of dope you had. What scheme, what con will work this day to get the medicine you need Just one last shot, this time you swear, but your heart continues to bleed. At last with you find the boy and girl and mix them both together Heroin and cocaine done just right can make the world seem better. The needle sticks the weathered skin in search of a useful vein When the crimson graces the syringe, instantly subsides the pain. The plunger drives the elixir home and is pulled back once or twice to be sure Within seconds you have washed out the damage, the pain, the chaos and thank God for the instant cure. And though the madness has settled even if for just a while You cannot recall the last time you laughed or even the last effort to smile. And so somewhere between each shot you have one brief hint of clarity And in this moment when things are real you cry out GOD PLEASE HELP ME! Bible Says Psalm 28:1-2 To you I call, O LORD my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who have gone down to the pit. Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place. Prayer Requests: 1. Please pray for “Smitty”, he has been diagnosed with prostrate cancer. Please keep him and his doctors in your prayers. Smitty is a friend and a great servant at Grace Community Church. 2. I received a request form a mother, Karen, to prayer her and her family. Her son is struggling severely with addiction. He was dropped at the Helping Up Mission so pray he gets that moment of clarity. Also pray for his girlfriend Heather who is sharing her fears and concerns with Karen. June 4, 2010 Thought for Today The Paparazzi never catches a star going into or coming out of church, how come? Bible Says John 7:10-11 However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret. 11Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, "Where is that man?" June 3, 2010 Thought for Today Garlic, they say, keeps vampires at bay A smile, I think, keeps anger away As you donne the Full Armor of God, add a smile to the wardrobe today. Bible Says Job 29:24 When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them. June 2, 2010 Thought for Today We approach addiction in America a lot like we are approaching the tons of oil being dumped daily into the Gulf of Mexico. How? Well in the case of addiction, more times than not, instead of rallying those involved to come up with a solution, we look for who or what is to blame. Seems the same thing is going on with the oil spill. When an addict’s blazing fire of dependence is put out, he will take responsibility on the road to recovery and realize that ultimately, he started the fire. Bible Says Ezekiel 23:32-33 "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "You will drink your sister's cup, a cup large and deep; it will bring scorn and derision, for it holds so much. 33 You will be filled with drunkenness and sorrow, the cup of ruin and desolation, the cup of your sister Samaria. June 1, 2010 Thought for Today I find it funny that when I am reading a book, no matter how enthralled I may get with the story line, no matter how long the book is, I would never dream of turning to the last pages to see how it ends. The Bible, however, is a different story. I find myself turning to Revelation often to remind myself how all this ends. Bible Says Revelation 21:3-4 “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” May 28, 2010 Remember Let us remember those who fell To deliver America from Hell Those that left their kids and wives To go to war and give their lives Ah yes, let us remember them well. Let us remember the families of the fallen Those who sat by the phone long after their soldier stopped callin’ And the day the soldiers came to the door And said be proud your hero died at war And the little ones and wives could not stop ballin’. Fly the Stars and Stripes halfway down As a memory of the forgotten laid in Arlington’s ground And as you gaze upon the red, white and blue Remember the men and women who fought for you And hold your head up proud, not looking at the ground. Let us thank God for America the Beautiful And all who fought and died so dutiful Place our hands upon our heart Don’t stop the tears when they do start Let us thank the Lord for a country so proud an bountiful. “Left, left, left right o left, I don’t know but I’ve been told American soldiers are good as gold I don’t care what people say I will protect the USA…” In proud memory of those who fought for the freedom that allows me to sit here and honor them. Bible Says Joel 2:6-8 6 At the sight of them, nations are in anguish; every face turns pale. 7 They charge like warriors; they scale walls like soldiers. They all march in line, not swerving from their course. 8 They do not jostle each other; each marches straight ahead. They plunge through defenses without breaking ranks. May 27, 2010 Thought for Today Here’s a statement I thought I would never hear, “Willie Nelson got his hair cut.” It is rumored by his spokesman that his waist length braids were just becoming too much to maintain. All I can say is, I wonder who Willie’s Delilah was… Bible Says Judges 16:17-19 17 So he told her everything. "No razor has ever been used on my head," he said, "because I have been a Nazirite set apart to God since birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man." 18 When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, "Come back once more; he has told me everything." So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. 19 Having put him to sleep on her lap, she called a man to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. Prayer Request You have been praying for Jeremy through his stay at Texas Children’s. As a reminder he was in need of a bone marrow transplant. I got this last night and am passing it on to all the prayer warriors out there and thanking you for continued prayers: Please put Jeremy on the prayer chain and every other prayer list you can. Really challenging times for him. Thanks, Twanya May 26, 2010 The Mountain John Michael Weber When I’m called to the Mountain Let me go there with great joy When I go where God leads Let me go as a little boy When I follow let me follow For there is much that I don’t know When I’m called to the Mountain Let me question not but just go. When I go to meet my Maker Let Him find me not in sin When I go to meet Almighty Let no needle hang from my skin When I go to meet my Savior Let me hang my head in respect not shame When I go to meet the Lord Let Him please to know my name. When I am called to the Mountain The journey does not end For it is there on the Mountain That my walk with Him begins So when I find that Mountain Let me sing His mighty praise For when I am on that Mountain I begin my endless days. If you cannot find that Mountain Be patient my sisters and my brothers You will be called to the Mountain It’s a Mountain like no others The journey to the Mountain top Begins on your knees The climb out of the darkness Begins with the first light you see Just call upon your Maker Become the child you used to be And in your childlike innocence An Awesome God will set you free. Bible Says Deuteronomy 5:3-5 It was not with our fathers that the LORD made this covenant, but with us, with all of us who are alive here today. The LORD spoke to you face to face out of the fire on the mountain. (At that time I stood between the LORD and you to declare to you the word of the LORD, because you were afraid of the fire and did not go up the mountain.) May 25, 2010 Thought for Today Have you ever thought about Tuesday? It is kind of a filler day, a bridge between the hardness of Monday and the hope that Wednesday brings of being halfway to the weekend. Thursday, in many cases, is really Friday, because on Friday, who is really at work at all anyway. Tuesday can be a lot like a good disciple. It knows that there is no glory in being Tuesday, but it is a necessary and integral part of the week. Sometimes in doing God’s work, one can feel like just filler, necessary but unnoticed by the world. To all the Tuesday disciples of the world I would say, God notices, always. Bible Says Matthew 9:37-38 Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." May 24, 2010 Thought for Today Karen sang about rain and Mondays And who could not be moved Cher made me believe in Gypsy’s, tramps and thieves And man that girl had the groove Janice took a piece of my heart As she wailed from the depths of her soul And Stevie made me love Rhiannon In the story song she told. Patsy made me hurt for her When she sang Crazy so soulfully Loretta aired her dirty laundry Through her songs sometimes joyfully Dolly made me believe in love With her Coat of Many Colors Linda made me relate to Carmelita’s Sad dilemma it was a song like no other. A woman’s voice goes past my ears And lands directly at my heart Perhaps because my mother’s voice Was where the melody had its start. Don’t get me wrong, I am still quite moved When I hear Willie, Waylon and the Boys But there not a sweeter sound Than the music of a woman’s voice. Bible Says Hosea 2:14-16 14 "Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her. 15 There I will give her back her vineyards, and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope. There she will sing as in the days of her youth, as in the day she came up out of Egypt. May 21, 2010 Thought for Today Globalization or a New World Order, if you will, is pretty cool in theory. Kind of gives me the sense of “We Are the World” goose bumpy, fuzzy heart type stuff. My opinion of those mega corporations that push such an agenda is less than warm and fuzzy. I believe it is the ego’s and dollars of those who would like to have more dollars and all power that are the driving force behind globalization. They desire, in my humble opinion, to be Kings! That’s just me, but I really don’t see us as pulling off the “One World United” theory. On the other hand, Alcoholics Anonymous seems to have come as close to globalization and humanitarian success as humanly possible. Oh yea, and then there is the idea that globalization is the first mile on the journey to Armageddon. Ain’t preachin, just thinkin’… Bible Says Revelation 16:16 Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon. May 20, 2010 Thought for Today On the ship of life, my yesterdays are the rudder that navigates my tomorrows. The Bible Says Psalm 107:29-30 29 He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. 30 They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. May 19, 2010 Thought for Today I must enjoy pain to a certain degree. When problems arise I have been known to stress, try to fix things beyond what I can, in my limited skills, fix and whine about the pain while seemingly embracing its misery. What a comfort to know that all I have to do, when I am through playing a god, is call on the God, who immediately comforts me and eventually shows me how to fix what needs fixin’. Bible Says 2 Corinthians 1:5-6 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. May 18, 2010 Thought for Today Though you cannot work your way into God’s Grace or Heaven, He never forgets the work you do for His Kingdom. Bible Says Hebrews 6:10 “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” May 17, 2010 Thought for Today Pilate asked Jesus, “What is truth?” Jesus was standing right there and Pilate still couldn’t grasp Truth and now the same is true. That three word question is asked everyday around the globe and failing to see the answer put before them keeps them in bondage. As the teens I work with would say, “True that!” Bible Says John 8:50-51 50I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge. 51I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death." May 14, 2010 Thought for Today Whose sin is greater; the false prophet who shouts his sermon to thousands, or the true prophet who says not a word? Bible Says Acts 18:19 9One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.” May 13, 2010 Thought for Today I would imagine, being weaned off drugs is comparable to being weaned from your mother. It is difficult to let go of that which keeps you warm and provides a safe zone and makes you feel loved. That is what drugs did for me. Contrarily, there is that excitement of being independent as little by little you let go of your mother or your drug of choice. Bible Says Psalm 131:1-2 1 My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. 2 But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. May 12, 2010 Thought for Today Imagine, if you can, the first second after your eyes open in the morning. Imagine not being at all happy about drawing a breath, much less waking up to draw that breath. Imagine your brain catching up with your eyes and slamming into gear and no matter how tightly you close your eyes and try to recapture the peaceful misery of sleep, you cannot, the brain has control. Imagine searching the files of your gray matter and trying desperately to find one shred of evidence that would allow you to believe you should live. Imagine now, having found a shred, that your physical self, rises to meet the chaos of your mind and pain comes with the joining of the two. Now imagine second number two of your day. You just imagined waking up as a junkie. Now imagine how grateful one is when he/she is delivered from such madness. 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. May 11, 2010 Thought for Today Everybody say AMEN! A little bit louder and sing it again, AMEN! Do ya' feel like singin’ and shoutin’ some praise, To the One who promises brighter days, Sing halleluiah, sing jubilee Let your heart be your voice and sing it joyfully Somebody sing AMEN! Everybody praise the CHRIST! If you’re feeling like me then praise him Twice, If it really feels good then shout praise Thrice, Not a lot to ask for He who died So that the ties that bound us be untied, So everybody sing out love Sing it so loud to heard above And everybody sing AMEN! Everyone put on a smile When you sing with a grin it can be heard for miles! Everybody clap your hands On the Rock of the Lord let everyone stand! All together sing as one When you praise the Lord this way it’s a whole lotta fun What better way to start a beautiful day So Amen! Halleluiah that’s all I’ll say! Bible Says 1 Chronicles 16:23-24 Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. May 10, 2010 Thought for Today I complain about my car sometimes, How blessed am I to have a car to complain about. I don’t feel that I am always 100% at work, How blessed am I to have a job to strive to improve. I don’t always have a great sense of self worth, How blessed am I to have a God who knows I am worthy of His love at all times. 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. May 7, 2010 Thought for Today When thinking of today a thought I search my mind and find thoughts for naught Many times for thoughts I have hoped and thought And many times I wonder should I think not. This is Friday and we should thank God But I think that makes any other day feel somewhat odd So perhaps we should give all of them a nod Then TGIF would be TGIAnyday and 7 days of God. Oh well I am not coming up with words of wisdom But I think survive it will this world of Christendom I am but a simple part of God’s awesome Kingdom That rings of truth and sings of freedom. I will try again Monday to be a worthy scribe For now thank God for today that we are alive And ain’t cool to live so full instead of just survive In Christ we live forever an forever we will thrive. Bible Says Psalm 139 1 O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways May 6, 2010 Thought for Today Confession is good for the soul. Honest confession before God and another human being, fills the darkness of your soul where the darkness of your secrets once kept you in the dark, with light. Bible Says James 5:16 “Therefore 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.” May 5, 2010 Thought for Today When one goes to purchase a horse, one of the major checkpoints for a smart buyer is the horse’s teeth. The mouth of a horse is like the window to the soul of good health. If someone offers to give you a horse, it is rather rude to say, “Thanks but let me check its teeth before I accept this free gift,” hence the phrase, “Never look a gift horse in the mouth.” I wonder how many times the gift of salvation was offered to me during my life, before I quit “looking it in the mouth” and just accepted it when God offered it to me. When people ask me how I was saved, the simple answer is, the gift was offered and I accepted, without looking it in the mouth. Bible Says Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” May 4, 2010 Thought for Today The problem that comes to mind when trying to follow God’s will for me, is that oft times, it conflicts with what the world in general perceives as the right way to live. When a decision defies logic, then one can be viewed as irresponsible, unstable or downright crazy. Not easy being a Christian all the time but the rewards are great. Bible Says 1 Corinthians 2:11-13 11For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. 12We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 13This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. Prayer Request: Please pray for my friend Mercedes and her family. Her mother recently had a stroke and is now in a rehabilitation center. May 3, 2010 Thought for Today When speaking of abstinence from things such as drugs and promiscuity, perhaps we have driven the bad effects to a point of the listener becomes numb. Maybe we should turn our focus to the positive effects of abstinence rather than the highly publicized and, at times embellished, hell fire effects of partaking in such activities. Bible Says Galatians 5:19-26 (Bad News) 19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Good News) 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. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Event: American Association of University Women 2010 AAUW-Frederick Branch Book & Author Forum Cultural Arts Center of Frederick County 15 N. Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701 Saturday May 8, 2010 11am to 3pm, I will be meeting other authors and students and signing books and promoting IBE Ministries, Inc. Hope to see some of you there! April 30, 2010 Detox by John Michael Weber Its 4am and I’m still awake Why can’t I slumber for heaven’s sake I dozed off but not too deep What anxt what fear would rob my sleep Its quiet but for the fan that blows My mind is troubled by God only knows My heart beats, but faster than it should And the sweat would drown me if it could. My legs are acting confused and dazed Can’t settle them at all I am amazed My stomach aches and nausea churns And in my throat the acid burns. I hope and pray for daylight now For the day is easier on me somehow It’s been two days since my last shot I hear the nurses but call them not. They cannot do a thing for me The horror within they cannot see Oh God, get me through this day don’t want to go through this again, no how, no way! Bible Says Proverbs 18:14 14 A man's spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? April 19, 2010 Thought for Today I opened emails this morning and there was a group of them at the top and then one lone message separated from the group stuck in the middle of 20 other messages. I wondered, “Who decided that one went there instead of with the rest of the new messages?” I could never be an IT Tech cause this stuff baffles me. Then I realized, God put that message there and I thought “Why?” God didn’t answer me as yet, but I do know He had a reason for even this tiny piece of confusion I felt this morning. Bible Says Job 19:25-27 I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! April 28, 2010 Thought for Today Drugs and alcohol are dangerous no doubt, but not nearly as dangerous as the pain that addicts are trying to keep at bay. Bible Says Psalm 38:16-18 For I said, "Do not let them gloat or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips." For I am about to fall, and my pain is ever with me. I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin. April 27, 2010 As a Child by John Michael Weber When we are children and we skin our knee We cry out loud to mom and dad to make us pain free. And when at school and good scores we made We could not wait to get home to show them our grade. So in pleasure and pain we cried out to parents In confusion and fear we had them to make sense In times of joy it was with them we would share For we knew that above everyone else, they really cared. Now as an adult I am still quite a child My Father in Heaven knows inside I am meek and I’m mild And when I skin my proverbial knee I cry out to Him to set the pain free. When I have done wrong I seek Him to forgive And when I have joy I will give credit to Him as long as I live. I cry out to Jesus in good times and bad I cry out to God when I am happy or sad. In the world, a responsible adult I try to be But I am a child at night when I hit my knees In the morning as a child I ask, from self to be free Then I take on the day knowing God is with me. Bible Says Psalm 57:1-2 1 Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. 2 I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills his purpose for me. April 26, 2010 Thought for Today Sometimes I dream BIG! When it comes to helping people with substance abuse problems, I realize I have the same thought process as I did when I was drinking and drugging. If helping one person is good, helping 10 must be better. Then I am reminded that, because I follow the Lord, I may very well be instrumental in helping more than one person and never know it. I guess what I am trying to say is, God leads me to a task, I do the best I can and the results are on Him. Still, I dream BIG, because God is BIGGER than any dream I can dream. Bible Says Joel 2:28-29 And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. Prayer Request: Michelle and her son Samuel have a big decision making day, today. Please pray that God guides Michelle in the direction best for her and her son. April 23, 2010 Thought for Today For eight years now we have made a trip to the Helping Up Mission to carry the Good News of Jesus to those men of Baltimore who are homeless. Each visit is unique and all visits rewarding. We go in hopes of giving away and leave with much more given back. It is always, for me, like going home, for the first night I spent at the Helping Up Mission was my last night homeless. And so tonight we go to share the Good News and I guarantee, when we leave, the Good News will have gotten better for us and hopefully for some men that are in need of some good news. Bible Says Mark 16:15 15He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” April 22, 2010 Thought for Today Every day I wake up and every day I don’t drink or do drugs, God continually lengthens the longest period of time in my life without drinking or drugging. Every day I wake up, it seems God removes yet another of my excuses for having done substances in the first place. The more excuses taken away the more I realize how peaceful it is to be free of them. Bible Says Romans 1:20 “For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”- April 21, 2010 Thought for Today If you squeeze your fist really tight and hold it that way, eventually the flow of blood is choked and your knuckles turn white and cold. When you let it go, immediately the warmth of the blood flowing back into your hand brings the color back to its natural state. It is the same with resentments. The longer we hold tight, the longer we choke our flow of spiritual nourishment. The minute we let go, we feel the warmth of the spirit. Bible Says Luke 11:23-25 23"He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me, scatters. 24"When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' 25When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. Prayer Request Request from “Yes My Kid” This past Monday night was a hard one. The struggles some of our kids must endure with the addictions and the isolation they must overcome are difficult. Parents are overwhelmed. But, we have a big God. He has a plan for each of us. Please pray for courage, faith and hope for our kids and our families. God bless, Lucinda April 20, 2010 Thought for Today If you pay your auto insurance and drive as safely as possible and still end up in an auto accident, an assessment is made and the insurance is given to repair the car or, in some cases, they “total” the car, meaning they give you the value of the car before it was wrecked in cash. It is for you to decide how to invest the cash, if you “love” the car then you might rebuild it but if it is really “totaled” you might decide to use the money to get a new car. If you are a human and a drug addict, then it is my belief, you have been “totaled” and insurance companies are far more willing to pay for the repair or replacement of a car than they are a human being. I find something very, very disturbing about that. Bible Says Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Prayer Request Please pray for Michelle in Houston. She has a very difficult decision to make in the upcoming days, that will impact not only her but her toddler, Samuel. April 19, 2010 Elizabeth Renee by John Michael Weber On tax day, April 15th, two thousand ten God breathed life into another of his beloved children And the baby’s momma cried And down the hall we could hear them both cry The momma with relief and the baby wished to fly And the daddy sighed. In a small town in East Texas came another little girl And what a wonderful addition she will be to this world And with joy we all had a tear To see the baby in her mommas arms And the baby knowing she was free of all harm And gone was everyone’s fear. And on this day was born Elizabeth Renee And like everyone we know she is the most beautiful of babies that’ s what we say And we all felt love Her daddies name is Witherspoon and that she shall be But she has Weber blood too from that she can’t flee And we felt grateful for this gift from above. This addition to the family will grow up no fear For we got her back from far and from near And we all vow loyalty to this one. And as her grand daddy now I look at my baby holding her baby And I hold my other baby and I am the most blessed to be sure and I don’t mean maybe And I shed a tear or two of joy and thanked the Father and Son. East Texas is the birthplace of Lindsey, the birthplace of Lauren and now the birthplace of Elizabeth Renee And as long as I go there and as long as I leave it gets so much harder to stay away. But I go where God leads And though miles may separate me from all my girls Our hearts are connected through the miles and the makeup and curls And my heart for ever smiles it does not bleed. So thank you kindly Lord for Elizabeth Renee And thank you for allowing me to be a small part of that day And I am forever yours My girls are truly yours and I know that to be true And I have not always been a good steward but you saw them through And I am forever grateful Lord for sure. Amen Bible Says John 16:21 “A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world.” April 13, 2010 Thought for Today If I try to rush God two things happen: 1. I get impatient 2. He does not Bible Says Romans 8:25 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. April 12, 2010 Howdy Howdy y’all from Texas There are so many things to see The blue bonnets are in bloom And then there is Blue Bell Ice Cream. I am down here with my daughters One is a mother soon to be The other is a graduate from Sam Houston University. The men in their lives Ain’t really all so bad That is as long as my girls are happy Otherwise they will be sad. As is a tradition A great BBQ feast we all partook The sausage, chicken and burgers Made me eat until my belly shook. Now its time for bed Blue bell capped off a beautiful day And we all keep a wondering When the baby will be here not on her way. So adios from Tejas From the Weber’s all down here We wish you all could share the joy That God has made to us quite clear! Bible Says Acts 10:2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. April 9, 2010 Thought for Today On a jet plane I am leavin’ No, no, no y’all, don’t be grievin’ Through the friendly skies I’ll be weavin’ By tomorrow I’ll be short sleavin’. From the east I’m going southwest To fulfill a family quest As a father to do my best Always at home with my kids, not a guest. Gotta’ run now time to pack Then put in order and clean my shack Don’t want a mess when I get back God has blessed me and there is nothing, nothing whatsoever, that I lack. Bible Says Judges 18:5-6 5 Then they said to him, "Please inquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful." 6 The priest answered them, "Go in peace. Your journey has the LORD's approval." April 8, 2010 Fear not the Night by John Michael Weber Fear not the night though darkness falls Stand brave, empowered embrace the foe Fear not the shadows that invade the walls Hold high your head on broad shoulders then go, Go bravely against the spirits of evil Full armor donned stand courageously opposed Fear not what you perceive to be chaotic upheaval Brand the sword of Almighty and victory is supposed. Fear not the legions, the cries and wailing of death No numbers, outnumber, the power of One Back down not one inch as you inhale the hounds breath Fear not, for with each darkness there will come the Son. Bible Says 1 John 2:7-8 7Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. 8Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining April 7, 2010 Thought for Today On contemplating the upcoming birth of my first grandchild, I realized that I am able to appreciate the miracle that I was too young and scared to realize at the birth of my girls. With my girls I was truly mesmerized if not hypnotized. With my granddaughter coming I am amazed, that as much as I believe I have learned about God, it still gently blows me away to observe His hands at work. Elizabeth Renee Witherspoon will be born and just like every baby born, God will have made her exactly, the way He wanted just her and her alone to be. Isn’t that cool? It also is a reminder that, when I am down on myself, God designed me too, just the way He wanted me to be. Bible Says Psalm 139:13-14 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. April 6, 2010 Thought for Today To drink “responsibly” one needs to know exactly how much alcohol it takes to put his/her frontal lobe on temporary vacation and stop one drink shy of that. Bible Says (Also what my dad said for years) 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." April 5, 2010 Thought for Today Heroin always gave me a warm fuzzy feeling like I was going home. Christ gives me a never ending warm and fuzzy feeling that I am always home. The first, I chose, the second , chose me and for that I am eternally grateful to my Lord! Bible Says John 15:16-17 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. 17 These things I command you, that you love one another. April 4, 2010 Easter Sunday Lucifer (From the mouth of Jesus) I left the tomb, carefully folding my burial garb so that it would be evident the Master is returning. I found myself facing the fallen Angel, Lucifer. He was one of our favorites, so beautiful such a great musical wonder. We had made the line, not to be crossed, just as the Tree of Knowledge in Eden was not to be molested for fruit and woe be it to Satan, for he crossed that line. It is difficult to look upon him for he still carries the physical attributes of a beautiful creation yet his eyes are those of death. Emptiness engulfs his presence. He noticed my scars, healed over but still evident and he smiled a smile that only the greatest of evil can produce. He takes something as beautiful and innocent as a smile and turns it wicked. He commented on my people and how it must be painful to have them turn on me and how much a failure I must feel at this very moment, to be in “his” kingdom prepared to bow to him. Bow my head I did, but not for his delight, but because my father was instructing me on what to do with his fallen one, so I was listening. An evil laugh filled the chasms of Hell when he saw me bow but when I raised my head and my eyes caught his, echoes of the laughter were all that remained and fear filled the space that was once long ago inhabited by a heart that God the Father had given him. His eyes now pleaded for mercy but none was to be given his choice was made in the beginning and as any father loves his own, we love Lucifer, but also any father must allow the consequences of his son’s actions, so must we hold this fallen one accountable for his evil deeds. He fell to his knees trembling. He bowed his head and it lay on the ground in front of his bended torso and my foot found his head and pressed hard and he knew he could not move. I said, “Oh Morning Star, your music turned to sour notes and you have wrong your father and all the heavens. I leave you now, do what you must but you may not create temptation. Put the children of earth through trials but not without permission. Roam the earth to and fro but know this, I will return and you will spend eternity where you now lay prostrate beneath my heel.” I put much force from heel to head and bruised him badly. I then awaited Father’s instruction for the time to return to our children, for they now know I did not stay in my tomb, and there are those who still doubt. I will seal our new covenant upon my resurrection. Yeshua April 2, 2010 Golgotha by John Michael Weber The nails found their mark on the hill that they called Golgotha And the blood of the Son like rivers did run on the hill known as Golgotha. Named for the skulls that dwell, as if monikers of hell, was the hilltop Golgotha And all the sins under the sun, fell on the shoulders of one, on that day at Golgotha. Two thieves were there in crucified despair, as they hung on the hill Golgotha. “Save us!”One cried, while the other one sighed, at the other ones innocence at Golgotha. Remember me was the other ones plea and paradise was found for he on Golgotha. “Forgive them” cried the third but his voice was barely heard on that day at Golgotha. A mother and friends wept until the end of that darkest of days at Golgotha. Soldiers galore took his clothes and they tore and divided them up on Golgotha. They laughed and spewed and the cross read “King of the Jews” on the hill named Golgotha. And the light was devoured as they reached the sixth hour on the hillside of Golgotha. “It is finished,” said with his last breath, the one before death, on that darkened hill Golgotha. Temple curtains were torn and the masses and many would mourn, on that day at Golgotha. A Centurion saw the light through the darkness with such sharpness on the side of Golgotha. And dead did rise and the multitudes were surprised, on that historical day at Golgotha. Death it is said, found itself to be dead, because of that day at Golgotha. Eternity reigns and the spirit here remains all because of the happenings on Golgotha. They crucified a man, at least that was their plan, for the day spent on the hill of Golgatha But that wasn’t God’s plan and that was no man, that they nailed to the cross on Golgotha. And on this day, thousands of years away, we remember that day at Golgotha. And we know now the whys and salvation never dies, because sin died that day at Golgotha. And we bow to the Son, for He is the One who saved all our lives at Golgotha. Jesus Christ is his name and He forever remains, though he gave up his life at Golgotha. Bible Says As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. 33They came to a place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). Matthew 27:32-33 April 1, 2010 Thought for Today Why did God forsake Jesus in the final hour? Theologians agree to disagree and have for centuries. The apostle John wrote, “Now we know that God hears not sinners: but if any man be a worshiper of God, and does His will, He hears him” (John 9:31). So perhaps, as Jesus took the full weight of our sins, God could not hear Him. He allowed Jesus to die to himself and resurrect to God. Hard to imagine the purity of Jesus being weighed down with the sin of the world and not being able to get God’s attention. My flipside thought of this is that God did not forsake Jesus at all and did hear his cries, but Jesus’ connection or circuit if you will, was scrambled with sin and he could not hear God. Bible Says Matthew 27:45-46 45From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. 46About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi,[a] lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" March 31, 2010 Thought for Today Ever felt alone? Yeah, me too. Then when this time of year rolls around I cannot even imagine what it must have been like for Jesus. I remember, November 18, 2001, my last night in Baltimore and my last shot of heroin and as I tried to curl up in an abandoned car I felt so utterly and totally alone in the world. It occurred to me that if anyone understood that feeling, none would understand it more than Jesus and perhaps that is why He lifted me up. Perhaps that is why, he takes some of us home, because in these last few days before the world completely turned on Him, Jesus understood how it felt to be alone. Bible Says Isaiah 53:5-6 “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” March 30, 2010 Holy Week From Palms to Passion In one week’s time My Lord, my Savior Gave His life for mine. From Praise to Punishment Though there was no crime Jesus Christ, Gave His life for mine. From Preaching to Praying For He knew he’d die On his knees in Gethsemane To his father He cried. From Heaven to hell All eyes were on Him From the Cradle to the Cross He conquered our sins. From Palms to Passion We remember each year This Holiest of time, And we hold it oh so dear. Bible Says Matthew 26:36-39 36Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." 37He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me." 39Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." March 29, 2010 Thought for Today If I keep God the center of my life above all else, then Hope is never farther away than a prayer. Bible Says Psalm 33:21-22 21 In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. 22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you. March 26, 2010 Prosper America Feed the poor, and then teach them to farm Support the military that keeps us from harm. Heal the sick and those impaired Pain and joy are better when shared. Keep America’s strong incentive to thrive Competition is healthy so keep it alive. Love your neighbor with all of your heart The way to recovery needs a first step to start. The basics of life cannot be forgotten nor lost If we lose faith, hope and love we can’t afford the cost. Keep God centered not to just serve as you please The road to prosperity begins on your knees. Bible Says 2 Chronicles 31:20-21 20 This is what Hezekiah did throughout Judah, doing what was good and right and faithful before the LORD his God. 21 In everything that he undertook in the service of God's temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered. March 25, 2010 Thought for Today The world, and my part in the world, can sometimes become just a bit overwhelming, making me question, what on earth am I doing and what difference does it make. It is in those moments I realize that perhaps I was trying to God’s job. In those moments I look to the heavens and feel really small. In those moments God always reminds me that there is nothing so small in His world that He doesn’t have time for and He loves the part in the world in which He casted me. In those moments I can find peace and purpose. Bible Says Matthew 10:29-31 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penn? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. 30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. March 24, 2010 Thought for Today Everyone wants to help those in need, do they not? Those who cannot help themselves truly need our help. We however get so deeply entrenched and argumentative in how to help these folks, that months and years go by while the argument continues. Meantime, those in need are still in need. Bible Says Luke 12:32-34 32"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Prayer Request: From Alli Huggins: I was wondering if you could please pray for my friend Laura Williams, she suffered a serious seizure and is still unconscious from it. Thank you so much. From Cousin Debra: Good morning. I went to Mississippi for the second interview yesterday. I thought they were going to offer me the job but they had an internal person want to apply so they are going to interview this person this week. They took me on a tour and said they would let me know on Friday. The other person is qualified. I humbly request that you pray for me today Mike. I absolutely know when we get in agreement and pray God hears us. Please pray with me that God pours out his favor on me and that the University of Mississippi Medical Center wants me for the position. Thank you. March 23, 2010 Thought for Today Self-Pity is like a hot bath. When you first submerge yourself in its water, you are wrapped in warmth and comfort. If you stay in too long, it becomes cold and eventually you will shrivel up. Bible Says 2 Peter 2:22 22Of them the proverbs are true: "A dog returns to its vomit," and, "A sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud." March 22, 2010 Thought for Today Working with unbroken horses is a process. The horse is stubborn and stuck in his old ways. When you finally break his old spirit, he is then able to follow instructions. One thing is for certain, by the time the horse is broken both the cowboy and the horse are worn out. The same is true in drug counseling and working with addicts. The client and the counselor are both spent before progress can be made in a new direction. Bible Says Ephesians 4:22-24 You 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. March 19, 2010 Thought for Today When God takes a soul and to us it seems untimely, it is hard to guess how someone’s untimely death fits His plan. It is for us to trust, the He does have a plan. Bible Says Psalm 23:1-6 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. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, [a] I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Prayer Request: Please pray for Diane and her daughter Skylar. Christian, husband and father, died due to an overdose last week. Pray for their comfort in this time of deep sorrow and mourning. Pray also, for the desperate hearts still struggling with drugs and alcohol. March 18, 2010 Thought for Today God does not stop us from doing things that will be detrimental to our health and well being. I would say that God feels sorrow when we turn away from Him and choose our own path, as does a parent who has high hopes for their child’s success in life, only to have the child take off in the opposite direction. It is not easy to be a parent and I would allow, it is probably not easy to be God. Bible Says Luke 15:11-13 Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them. "Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. “Let Go, Let God…” March 17, 2010 Thought for Today I do not like green eggs and ham, nor do I like green beer. That is not what St Patrick had in mind when he delivered Ireland from fear. Bible Says Psalm 23:1-3 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake Interesting Trivia: St. Patrick was not Irish. St. Patrick was never canonized so he was not a Saint. ST. Patrick used the clover as was way to explain the Trinity, three leafs, one plant. Three bodies, one God. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! March 16, 2010 Proverbial Poetry by John Michael Weber When life throws you a curve Go ahead and swing away The game of life has its highs and lows But to win you have to play. If with a friend you argue Over something too mundane to disagree Swap places with your friend And perhaps it is his view that you’ll see. If you don’t like the gun laws Punishments not harsh enough, violators learn not their lesson It is fine to hate guns themselves But wrong to hate the people with Smith and Wesson’s. If one should encounter A person who is truly gay Though you may see it as out of bounds You should love them anyway. If a religion does not meet your standards Or they don’t believe in God at all I am pretty sure Christ would have you love them, Love all people if you hear God’s call. An when you run across a homeless soul And the first thing that crosses your mind is dope Get past that first reaction you have And linger longer and think of hope. We are all God’s children on this Earth Short, skinny, chunky or tall Red, yellow black and white We are precious to God one and all. When questions arise about anything Refer to the WORD for it is true. Smile at a stranger on this day And let God’s light come shining through. Bible Says Colossians 3:12 12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. March 15, 2010 Thought for Today Even when I commit an unselfish act, I feel selfish because of the way that moment of selflessness makes me feel, which is good. But if it is true that, even for a moment, I got out of self for another, it is a win-win, because the recipient of the act is better and so am I. Just another example of the Awesomeness of our Creator. Bible Says Philippians 2:3-4 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. Prayer Update From Cousin Debra: Mike thank you so much for praying for me you must have done so yesterday and thank you for sending out a prayer request this morning please feel free to share tomorrow that God is good and he hears us when we pray. I got a call at 7 this morning that the University of Mississippi Medical Center wants to interview me this coming Tuesday for a position as Educator for the Clinic healthcare staff developing training programs. I have an undergraduate degree in training and my master's is in adult education. I don't think God could have more closely matched a job to my education. I am very nervous I don't like to interview but God will give me a way in to good things happening in my life. Please continue to pray that University of Mississippi Medical Center wants to give me a chance. This opportunity is a result of you praying for me and others you invited to pray for me so please be vigilant. I absolutely know when one or more prays together God hears and is happy when he sees his children praying for each other. I have asked God to bless me so that he might be glorified. Love your cousin Debra Debra goes on an interview tomorrow morning at the University of Mississippi, please pray that it be God’s Will for her to receive this position. March 12, 2010 Thought for Today I have often heard that God provides a “way out” of any given bad situation. I think a more positive way to view it is that Gods provides a “way in” to any given good situation. Bible Says 2 Peter 1:4 “Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” Prayer Request: Please pray for my cousin Debra. Pray that God gives her employment in her chosen field in which she has been educated and that Beau is delivered to her home through the court system to live with her. 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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