From My Perspective - - - -

In the ebb and flow of life, interruptions are a reality we all experience. No one is ever adequately prepared for the interruptions – they just occur. We might call these the unplanned encounters in life. In our lifetime, many of us can remember some of the major interruptions (and unplanned encounters) that have occurred – Pearl Harbor in 1941; World Trade Center in 2001; Assassinations – John F. Kennedy in 1963; Martin Luther King in 1968; Robert F. Kennedy in 1968; Hurricanes such as – Camille, Andrew, Ivan, Katrina, Gustav, Ike; Wars – World War II, Korean War, Viet Nam War, Persian Gulf War, Iraq/Afghanistan Wars – interruptions that changed our lives and lifestyle.

It’s easy to recognize that our lives are filled with interruptions – some very small ones (like a telephone call or someone unexpectedly stopping by our home), whereas others have greater impact and require much more attention (a sudden illness and hospitalization; a death in the family; etc.). It’s how one responds to the interruption that is important and fascinating. One can respond with annoyance and frustration when an unplanned event/encounter occurs, or with a broader view of A Hand of Providence intervening and guiding us to some other focus and involvement than the one we had planned. Many can relate to being a personal part of an interruption that has occurred in the life of a family member or a friend – a sudden sickness, a death, an accident, an incarceration, etc. Sometimes – it’s just a matter of being there to support, encourage, or to let another know we really care. I have been in situations that were an interruption in the life of another where I have not known what to say or do. But then – the caring hug; the tear; a spoken word (albeit faltering), the touch of the hand – all seemingly unimportant actions – but – vital nevertheless in living out a commitment to love, mercy and compassion.

Not too many years ago, we gathered as a family in the Cancer Intensive Care Ward where our 30 year-old son-in-law was being treated. After all kinds of treatments had been tried, and after several weeks – the gravity of the situation was obvious. The moment had come to disconnect the life-support system! We stood in that room watching as the last signs of “life” ebbed from his body. In such a moment, words just don’t seem to come as easily as the tears. This prolonged “interruption” had come to an end – the end much differently than we had hoped and prayed. In the midst of this with all the scurrying of hospital staff and family members, there came the moment when our daughter wanted to be alone in the room with the man to whom she had been married, and with whom she had two children. A final interruption within a life! A change that would impact the life of a wife and two young children. An interruption that would change their lives forever. Who is ever prepared for such an interruption and moment? Where does one go? What does one do from that point forward? Lives are irretrievably changed!

The words of Scripture can almost sound hollow at such a moment. I’m certain when one passes through “the valley of the shadow of death” – God understands the feeling of emptiness one has and how hollow the words of Romans 8:28 may sound – “For we know that ALL THINGS work together for good to those who love the Lord, to those who are called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” All Things? God’s Purpose? Two little children looking forward to their Daddy’s coming home to be with them? A wife who has done everything humanly possible in behalf of her loved one? Yes! In all things – even in the midst of one’s sorrow and time of emptiness – God is understandingly whispering – “My grace is sufficient for you!” You’ll see! I will comfort you in your sorrow! I’ll provide for you! Circumstances may change in your life – but – I remain the same – yesterday, today, and forever! I’ll give you peace and wipe away your tears! I’m faithful and I care about you now and forever! There is never an interruption in my love and care for you!

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that our God is never annoyed or frustrated by our times of “interruption” when we cry out: “Lord - Help!” Try Him – I know that you’ll like Him!

From My Perspective - - - -

On the basis of “…out of the overflow of the heart his mouth speaks…” one could conclude there is something more to be said about what is expressed  than to relegate it to “a slip of the tongue” or a statement is the product of one “thinking on his feet…” Great care has to be exercised to prevent jumping to wrong conclusions. Keeping that firmly in place and mind, it does give one pause when a candidate is asked about his view in terms of when life begins. After verbal meandering, he finally responds to arrive at a firm conclusion is – “above my pay grade.” This is not an acceptable answer or even a valid excuse. What YOU believe should receive a definitive answer. This same time of verbal evasiveness is present when he was being interviewed about his view of the Iraq War and the recent effort of the surge. He cannot get himself to admit that the surge was an excellent military strategy that has brought about a positive result and may very well lead to redeployment of troops because of a greater possibility of peace and democracy in Iraq.

The more telling “slip of the tongue” may have occurred while this candidate was “thinking on his feet” and made the following statement on “This Week with George Stephanopoulos”: “Let's not play games…What I was suggesting -- you're absolutely right that John McCain has not talked about my Muslim faith. And you're absolutely right that that has not come.” Mr. Stephanopoulos interrupted with, "Christian faith."  "My Christian faith," Mr. Obama said quickly. "Well, what I'm saying is that he hasn't suggested that I'm a Muslim. And I think that his campaign's upper echelons have not, either…” To be fair, anyone who does public speaking is aware that there are moments when a misstatement can and will be made. One’s hope is that people will grant “the benefit of the doubt” for the speaker and allow for a clarification – not political spin – of his views on the War in Iraq, Abortion, and matters of “Christian” Faith. Fight The Smears (http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/christian) is an Obama Website where the following statements appear: “Senator Obama has never been a Muslim, was not raised as a Muslim, and is a committed Christian…Barack Obama was sworn in (the US Senate) using his family Bible.”

Consider these things with me - - - and remember the words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 12:36-37, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." The candidates should be precise and honest in what they represent, and others need to be careful and guarded in terms of judgments reached and shared. President Theodore Roosevelt once said regarding foreign policy: “There is a homely old adage which runs: 'Speak softly and carry and big stick; you will go far.' If the American nation will speak softly, and yet build and keep at a pitch of the highest training a thoroughly efficient navy, the Monroe Doctrine will go far.” The “speak softly” is always beneficial. We need to have as the goal and commitment of our lives the words found in Psalm 19:14, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” I hope this is your concern and commitment.

From My Perspective - - -

Inasmuch as this nation declares “In God We Trust” and pledges that we are “One Nation, Under God”, one would have the impression that foundational to our heritage would be a strong belief system that embraces a power greater than ourselves Who controls the affairs of mankind in the world. In a Presidential contest, we want to know the “church” a candidate attends and what an individual believes.

It’s no secret that “religion” has been in the spotlight of the current Presidential contest. Of the four nominated candidates, we know that one is from a Roman Catholic background; another attended a church for more than 20 years where Liberation Theology was championed; another chooses to be vague but for a brief moment accepted endorsement by some “evangelicals” before disagreeing with some of their stances; and we have one who is from an Assembly of God background. Earlier on, there was one candidate who was marginalized by the media because his primary support was from the “evangelical (right) base” of which he was a part.

The Pastor’s Weekly Briefing references some recent research done by the Ellison Group regarding the question: “What Is an Evangelical?” America's Definition…reveals that 36 percent of all Americans say they have no idea at all what the definition is of an evangelical Christian. The most common perception is that "evangelical" has to do with spreading ones faith or trying to convince someone else to become a Christian. The research also revealed thatLa) Nine percent believe that evangelicals are just a specific type of Christian such as born-again or non-denominational; (b) Nine percent believe that evangelicals are Christians who are particularly zealous or devoted to their faith; (c) Eight percent feel evangelicals are defined largely by their focus on the Bible: their reliance on it and their belief in it; (d) Six percent define evangelicals by their world-view or politics.

When the media reports something about evangelical leaders like Rick Warren or James Dobson, or describes a political candidate as meeting with an evangelical group, or polls likely voters and reports that evangelicals are backing a particular candidate, many Americans honestly don't have the faintest notion of just who belongs to that group that is being described, while others are completely off-base in their assumptions of who the report is describing…Yet Americans usually don't define 'evangelicals' by their voting habits or politics. There's at least some basic understanding among the American population that evangelicals are defined by religion rather than by politics, even if many people don't really know just what that religious definition is…

Evangelicals used to be characterized or defined by certain foundational beliefs. These were known as: The Five Fundamentals of the Faith which are essential for Christianity, and upon which there is unwavering agreement: (1) The Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:1; John 20:28; Hebrews 1:8-9); (2) The Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:27); (3) The Blood Atonement of Jesus Christ (Acts 20:28; Romans 3:25, 5:9; Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 9:12-14); The Bodily Resurrection of Jesus Christ (Luke 24:36-46; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, 15:14-15); and (5) The inerrancy of the Scriptures themselves (Psalms 12:6-7; Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20). This is a clear set of core values in a defined belief system. Does it define you? Is it a foundation upon which your life and values are based?

Consider these things with me - - - we should know What we believe and Why we believe it. We should know that True Liberty and Freedom comes from a relationship with The One Who stated: “If the Son shall set you free, you will be free indeed.” And He also said: “You shall know the Truth and the Truth will make you free.” Do you know, and do you have an on-going relationship with The One Who stated: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life…”  Be certain today!  

From My Perspective - - -

In the 1960s, a popular situation comedy caught the attention of Americans; it was Gomer Pyle, USMC. The description of the program is: “Gomer Pyle was the simple-minded gas station attendant and later auto mechanic in the American TV sitcom The Andy Griffith Show, played by Jim Nabors. He continued the character in Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. from 1964-69. Gomer Pyle was a good-natured, naive country-boy, characterized by his childlike innocence and his pronounced accent. He lived in the fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina and worked at Wally's Filling Station where he took up residence in the back room. He was often awestruck by the simplest of things, resulting in the exclamation of his catch-phrases, Shazam!, Gaaw-aawl-ly and Surprise, surprise, surprise!”

In our rapidly moving world, it hardly leaves any room for the Gomer Pyle types today – innocent, simple, naïve, easily surprised… The newsmakers and the muckrakers stay busy churning out their view of life and the world with their long-standing biases and pontifications. Scandal is great for the news cycle. It gets the attention of the Media (scandal becomes the lead story) and it sells magazines and newspapers. There is also the speculative scandal that proves to be merciless and relentless. Truth is not the issue! Smearing an Opponent or an opposing view is the objective! The lead listing on a Google Search about Sarah Palin is: “Palin pregnancy news knocks GOP team off-message.”  

And the link takes one to Newsday.Com where they write: “Sarah Palin was on a roll, fresh-faced and fiery, just the boost of energy John McCain's slow-but-steady campaign needed. Now that's over. So far anyway, it doesn't look as if news that Palin has a pregnant teenage daughter is enough to knock her off McCain's ticket. But the news does seriously knock Palin and McCain off-stride and off-message - just as they were trying to introduce her to a broader audience - and just as the public was trying to fix an image of Palin as a would-be vice president in their minds. No matter how sympathetic voters are to her plight or how much parents might believe it could happen to their daughters, this is not what McCain's camp wanted people to hear in the first 72 hours after introducing Palin. It changes the story line from [Republicans] cheering to “let’s look at the real Sarah Palin”… It puts a stall in her momentum." The prognosticators would love to pretend that this is a damaging surprise and a shocking event rather than the realities of life are no respecter of persons.

In the spiritual realm we are cautioned and warned about the forces and purposes of evil. I Thessalonians 5:14, “But you are not in darkness…for that day to surprise you like a thief.”, and in II Corinthians 11:14-15, “…Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.” In other words, don’t be among those who feign innocence and who cloak themselves with naiveté.

From My Perspective - - - -

In Jeremiah 17:9, the Prophet wrote: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know (understand) it?” This reality can be seen in many facets of life as people and organizations try to be “politically correct” to serve their own best interests and to achieve a desired goal. In some instances, this appears to be more subtle than others.

In the area of politics during 2004, an interesting phenomenon has taken place that epitomizes SUBTLETY. On the webpage of ChristianPost.org, in an article entitled: “Speaking the Language of Zion While Supporting the Agenda of Babylon” Dr. Tony Beam has written the following: “They (Democrats) replaced the haranguing of religion with the hiring of consultants who could teach them the language of Zion while many continue to support the agenda of Babylon. The Democrat National Convention…in Denver looked and sounded more like a tent revival than a political stump meeting. Rev. Leah Daughtry led what was billed as the first ever Convention interfaith gathering. Rev. Daughtry demonstrated the “big tent” atmosphere of the meeting by greeting those in attendance in the language of the Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Christian faith. Four years ago the Democrats could boast only one meeting during the convention that dealt with the topic of religion. This year’s convention includes ecumenical prayers offered at the beginning and ending of each session along with a plethora of discussion groups led by Left leaning religious organizations that didn’t even exist prior to 2004…”

Another way of referring to this activity could be the evolving desire to be more inclusive and enlarge the base. It would be wrong to conclude there are no evangelicals in the Democratic Party. It would also be wrong to conclude that everyone who prefers a Democrat to a Republican is “Left” oriented. We need to be alert to the nuances (a very slight difference or distinction in expression, meaning, and response)that are employed and the definitions that are intended. Thus – the Subtlety. The labels that some utilize may achieve a political purpose and reference point but in and of itself it can be equally deceitful. It is a reasonable axiom that those who get the most attention and who speak the loudest usually do not accurately represent any constituency except for their personal agenda and limited perspective. For an example, consider the issue of drilling for oil. Even though almost 80% of people polled believe we should be doing offshore drilling along the coasts of our own nation, the “leaders” refuse to let that be a singular issue upon which the Congress can vote.

There are valid principles that should guide on in all areas of life. When Jesus Christ was preparing to send out His Disciples, he instructed them (Matthew 10:16): “I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” The principle is to be aware of the thinking, subtleties and nuances of the world in which one lives and functions. Don’t be gullible! Always be focused and alert! Know the facts! Increase wisdom! Be shrewd! There is a truism that states: “If we don’t stand for anything, we will fall for everything.”

Consider these things with me - - - If there is any credible evangelical and conservative Christian base, then it ought to a have a clear and precise expression. Too much of it has been shrill – and thus – ignored or viewed as radical, extreme, out of the mainstream. There must be a focused and concise expression of what one believes and desires. Don’t be among those who speak on and on until they can think of something to say!

From My Perspective - - -

It’s an old tradition that is quoted by many when a Bride is about to be married: “Something Old, Something New; Something Borrowed, Something Blue, And a silver sixpence in her shoe.” The idea is that this combination as part of the Bride’s attire will assure happiness, success, and good luck in her marriage.

The History of this tradition states: “Each item in this poem represents a good-luck token for the bride. If she carries all of them on her wedding day, her marriage will be happy. "Something old" symbolizes continuity with the bride's family and the past. "Something new" means optimism and hope for the bride's new life ahead. "Something borrowed" is usually an item from a happily married friend or family member, whose good fortune in marriage is supposed to carry over to the new bride. The borrowed item also reminds the bride that she can depend on her friends and family…In ancient Rome, brides wore blue to symbolize love, modesty, and fidelity…Before the late 19th century, blue was a popular color for wedding gowns…a silver sixpence in the bride's shoe represents wealth and financial security…For optimum fortune, the sixpence should be in the left shoe…In modern times, a dime or a copper penny is sometimes substituted…”

As we take note of the political current events, we find now “Something Old” (McCain, aged 72 [R] and Biden, aged 66 [D] – both with years in the US Senate) and “Something New” (Obama, aged 46 [D] and Palin, aged 44 [R] both with relatively little executive and administrative background). This is Balancing A Ticket run amuck (In or into a jumbled or confused state). Most of those entrenched in Government certainly know the meaning of “Something Borrowed” inasmuch as uncontrolled spending has this nation with huge deficits. It is borrowing against the future! The idea of “Something Blue” doesn’t apply because the appropriate color – based on the financial condition of the nation is “Red”! One interesting thought that comes from the Political ambition of some of these aspirants for office is their desire to increase the tax rate for the “rich” and to give tax relief to the “poor”! One never hears the Political Aspirant acknowledge that nearly one-third of our population (over 100 million people) pay no taxes at all. An Analyst stated it this way: “…the bottom 50% of income earners in this country pay only about 3% of all individual income taxes collected by the federal government. When you get to the bottom 40% that percentage figures drops to zero…”

The greater concern is for the individual. God created a human being with a body, soul and spirit; and with a mind, emotions and a will. The “Something Old” is the fact of original sin – “all have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3). The possibility for “Something New” is “except a man/woman be born again, he/she cannot enter the Kingdom of God” (John 3). Once this spiritual resolve is reached, the challenge and opportunity for an individual is summed up in these words: “walk in newness of life…” (Romans 6). And then in Galatians 5:1 [The Message]: “Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you….” More than 50 years ago, a popular Christian Camp Chorus was: “Get the New Look, From the Old Book; Get the New Look from the Bible…The inward look, the outward look, the upward look, from the Old, Old Book; Get the New Look…from God’s Word!”

Consider these things with me - - - "Something Old" - “and let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily holds us back; - - - "Something New" - "and let us run with patience the race set before us; Looking unto Jesus…” (Hebrews 12).  This is an important “change” that should be sought and pursued.

From My Perspective - - -

People love to coin phrases that don’t always hold up under scrutiny. It is common-place to hear the expression: “Perception Is Reality”!  Wikipedia indicates: “In psychology and the cognitive sciences, perception is the process of attaining awareness or understanding of sensory information.” Objects and Ideas can mean different things to different people. A test that is often employed is the use of objects or ink blots (The Rohrschach Test). The person taking the test has to give interpretation and/or definition to what is being observed. Such interpretation or definition does not mean that is the reality.

This week we observed the Democratic National Convention. The final night of the convention was held in Invesco Field. At the 50 yard line a large stage Facade had been erected. Some thought it had the idea of the White House Portico, whereas others felt it represented an Athenian Temple. The point is that it was a prefab Facade that very quickly was disassembled for the next big event to be held in the stadium. What needs to be remembered is that a “Façade” is merely “a superficial appearance or illusion of something…an artificial or deceptive front…”

When this concept is applied to political rhetoric by any party or candidate, if a list was kept of everything that was stated would be provided by “my administration”, one would find that hopes would quickly fade behind a mountain shadow of impossibility. It is one thing to “Think Big” and that is a worthy motivational tool. However, too much of the rhetoric fades in one’s memory and the realities of life are still there – dreams not realized and hopes dashed. Perhaps that is a reason why in the latest Real-Clear-Politics Poll the Congressional approval rating is at 17.4 % and the Presidential Approval rating is at 30%. We seem to be paralyzed in and by the political rhetoric that speaks what people want to hear, but the reality of it (thankfully) is Facade.

The greater concern is in regard to the lives we live regardless of the political dialogue or the ambitions of the one elected to office. The Perception regarding a Life – is it Reality or is it Façade (appearing to be something grand when it is only a prefab representation that is as quickly disassembled as it was assembled)! For instance, there are some Marks of the Basic Christian Life that demonstrate “Reality” versus “Facade”! Colossians 2:6 through 8, the beginning point states: “as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.  See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”

The Reality Factor takes us a step further to Colossians 3:5 through 15, “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness…In these you too once walked, when you were living in them…Now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator…as God's chosen ones… Model By Your Life compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you…above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… These are the minimum Marks and Reality.

Consider these things with me - - - Walk In Reality and Remove All that is Facade!

From My Perspective - - -

As Ms. Noonan continues, she makes a transition to include the Republican myopia when she states: “Democrats show little expressed sympathy for those who work to make the money the government taxes to help the beset-upon mother and the soldier and the kids. They express little sympathy for the middle-aged woman who owns a small dry cleaner and employs six people and is, actually, day to day, stressed and depressed from the burden of state, local and federal taxes, and regulations, and lawsuits, and meetings with the accountant, and complaints as to insufficient or incorrect efforts to meet guidelines regarding various employee/employer rules and regulations. At Republican conventions they express sympathy for this woman, as they do for those who are entrepreneurial, who start businesses and create jobs and build things. Republicans have, that is, sympathy for taxpayers. But they don't dwell all that much, or show much expressed sympathy for, the sick mother with the uninsured kids, and the soldier with the shot nerves…”

Who is right here? Or, is there enough blame to go around? Are our politicians just using words to stir emotions and rally people to vote for them? Do they really have genuine concern for sick mother or marginalized warrior? And, what about those who claim relationship to Jesus Christ? The Evangelical base wants to have a voice and influence in the politics of our day – but – how much is their talk demonstrated by walk - - how often are their words put into action?

Consider these things with me and if those who do Extrapolation project the productivity and achievement of our lives, may they have evidence that we have put feet to our faith, and action to our affirmations.

From My Perspective - - -

A Prognosticator is one who will “forecast or predict something future from present indications or signs; prophesy...” A Pundit is “a person who makes comments or judgments, in an authoritative manner; a critic or commentator…” This is where we find ourselves today as the political conventions are held and predictive and authoritative commentary will rain upon us. Will there be some inspiring and motivational presentations? Yes!  Will there be negative, anti-opponent rhetoric and linkage to everything that appears to be wrong? Yes! Will there be Media Bias in terms of Candidates and Parties? Yes! For instance, Time Magazine has had Obama on the cover seven times so far this year, whereas McCain has been on the cover twice.  In a special forum over the weekend, Governor Ed Rendell (D-PA) stated: “MSNBC was the official network of the Obama campaign…and who called their coverage absolutely embarrassing. Chris Matthews, loses his impartiality when he talks about the Clintons.” The Forum Moderator condescendingly stated: "Why don’t we let Governor Rendell sit down." That was met with applause by some lackey-types who were there. And so, a contrary voice was silenced!

It is interesting that Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary makes use of Isaiah 47:10 through 13 to illustrate the meaning for Prognosticator: “You felt secure…you said, No one sees me; your wisdom and your knowledge led you astray, and you said in your heart, I am, and there is no one besides me…You are wearied with your many counsels; let them stand forth and save you, those who divide the heavens, who gaze at the stars, who at the new moons make known what shall come upon you…” Inasmuch as the Prognosticator wishes to make predictions and tries to foretell the future, and whereas the Pundit is almost a parrot for the Prognosticator, one should observe the cautionary statement about such types in Deuteronomy 18:18 through 22, “I will raise up for them a prophet…And I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him. And whoever will not listen to my words that he shall speak in my name, I myself will require it of him. But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name that I have not commanded him to speak…that same prophet shall die. And if you say in your heart, How may we know the word that the Lord has not spoken? When a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the word does not come to pass or come true, that is a word that the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously. You need not be afraid of him…”

Consider these things with me, and try to remember that Presumptuous Prophets, Prognosticators and Pundits will fail. They are making from their own devices and for their own causes predictions based on their own preferences. It would be refreshing to have someone proclaim reasonable and achievable goals for our nation. It would be beneficial for there to be a national referendum to stop spending; to reduce the national debt; and to promote personal responsibility and industry. If change is what is being promoted, then let us Change Our Focus so we will once again be “One Nation, Under God” that has fully embraced: “In God We Trust.”

From My Perspective - - -

I was just reading a Review about the book: “Knocking Over the Leadership Ladder” by Paul R. Ford. The Reviewer observed from Chapter 2: "It is difficult to find the communion of the Holy Spirit when the spotlight is on the self…Narcissism, exaggerated self-concern says, 'It's all about “Me”… Entitlement says "I deserve it."  We feel “We” deserve what we have, what we want and what we need. “We” look and act much like our unhappy culture… God's design…is for relationships to have priority over position or results. But it is hard to live "We" when our culture thinks and lives "Me"…God has designed us with strengths to offer others and areas where we need others…Individualism encourages “Me” to exhibit my strengths and hide my weaknesses.  Community encourages “Me” to share my strengths and acknowledge I need you because of my weaknesses.  It's not about “Me”; It's about “We”."

Our national news cycle has us focused on the Presidential candidates and their utterances. During the recent Saddleback Presidential Candidate Forum, a question posed by Rick Warren to both candidates pertained to “at what point a human being gets human rights”. The nuanced answer by one candidate was: "Whether you're looking at it from a theological perspective or a scientific perspective, answering that question with specificity is above my pay grade…" Ironically, this answer was given shortly after he made a statement about his personal faith in Christ as his Savior and Lord. I could not help but think of the issue of the “Me” versus the “We” at this point. One should be able to have the expectation that a well-educated candidate who projects himself in an authoritative manner should have knowledge of Psalm 139:13 through 16, “For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in Your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them…”. To an average person, that sounds like a meaningful life is being created by God at the moment of conception.

One would also think that a person with a legal education and background would surely grasp the significance of the words of wisdom in Proverbs 24:11-12, “Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter. If you say, Behold, we did not know this, does not He who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not He who keeps watch over your soul know it, and will He not repay man according to his work?” This does not square with the advocates of Planned Parenthood, nor the Pro-Choice minions. When the focus becomes “The Presidency is for “Me” rather than a desire to be concerned for the “We” factors, such a candidate is short-sighted and chooses to be ignorant about the basic human rights and value of life for the “We”! This appeals to the Pro-Choice individuals – but – the greater concern should be, What is in accord with God’s views and desires for the “We” versus the narcissistic focus on “Me”!!

The “Me” factor has to be refocused onto the “We”. The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States is clear: “We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” The emphasis is on the “We” rather than on the “Me”!

Consider these things with me and let us decide to implement a passage that will benefit the “We”, such as, Psalm 82:3-4,“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” The change that is needed is a return to the Biblical foundations for the “We” rather than the aspirations for a “Me” type!

From My Perspective - - -

It seems as though “amelioration” should have a central place and function in all of ones efforts and engagements. Ours is a world of flux and people need and long for some semblance of stability. Just think of the result if we entered into situations – even if there is a degree of risk – to try to ameliorate rather than ignore. The purpose would be to make something better, or to bring about improvement.

 he political candidates for President of the US offer interesting perspectives. One wants to bring about “change”!It is fair to ask: Change from what to what! If we alter Foundational Values the change could be chaotic and devastating. Another wants us to strive to leave the country and world better than how we found it. The idea is to be more self-giving than self-receiving! It is fair to ask him: Where do we start this reclamation of values and how sincere is this expression!For both candidates, is it merely rhetoric?Wendy’s some time back had an attention-grabbing commercial when an elderly Lady would ask: “Where’s The Beef?”

If one looks at the Congress that either candidate will have to work with, the track record is dismal. In a recent Wall Street Journal Editorial, the following is stated under the heading: “As U.S. Economic Problems Loom, House, Senate, Sweat The Small Stuff!” Some of what the 110^th Congress has (or hasn’t) done: “The 110th Congress, whose term officially ends in January, hasn't passed any spending bills or attacked high gasoline prices. But it has used its powers to celebrate watermelons and to decree the origins of the word "baseball… Barring a burst of legislative activity after Labor Day, this group of 535 men and women will have accomplished a rare feat. In two decades of record keeping, no sitting Congress has passed fewer public laws at this point in the session -- 294 so far -- than this one. That's not to say they've been idle. On the flip side, no Congress in the same 20 years has been so prolific when it comes to proposing resolutions -- more than 1,900, according to a tally by the nonpartisan Taxpayers for Common Sense…Congress has saluted such milestones as the Idaho Potato Commission's 70th anniversary and recognized soil as an "essential natural resource…Sen. Saxby Chambliss, whose home state of Georgia has 24,000 acres planted in watermelon, pushed a resolution establishing July as National Watermelon Month." The list goes on and on and on!

The needed focus on both Energy and the Economy – well – Congress decided they needed a 5 week hiatus rather than address the issue of drilling for oil off our shorelines. Do we need “change”? Do we need to be “self-giving”? Do we need to ask our Congress: “Where’s The Beef?”

In The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ spoke of the importance of Foundations. In Matthew 7:24 through 27, Jesus instructed: “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” As we hear the rhetoric of the Candidates, we need to make certain they know the difference between rock and sand. The lofty words quite often are sand – no place for a suitable foundation…

From My Perspective - - -

There is another dimension to the subjects of jocularity, humor, jokes and happiness, namely, the Therapeutic. The idea is gleaned from Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” A similar thought is shared in Proverbs 15:13, “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” There is a connection being made between the psychological and the physiological. It is not an artificial “feel good” response following a “pep talk” but it is the product of a positive lifestyle that basks in a truth shared in Nehemiah 8:9-12. After the wall to The City has been rebuilt, the Law of God is brought out and read. Will they listen to it? How do they respond to the Word of God? How much of it will they remember after years of exile? Will it matter at all to them?

Nehemiah records: “Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, ‘This day is sacred to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.’ For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. Nehemiah said, Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. The Levites calmed all the people, saying, "Be still, for this is a sacred day. Do not grieve." Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.” In verse 4, the text states: “…all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law…”

After working so hard for so long, they heard the words: “The Joy of the Lord is your Strength!” They become exuberant and begin to celebrate with Great Joy. This same principle is employed in the ministry of Jesus Christ. If you scan through the Gospel of Matthew and the scenes where Jesus shows compassion toward the sick and infirm, He usually stated: “Be of good Cheer, your sins are forgiven you.” When the Disciples are in the boat and a storm unleashes all of its fury, Jesus says to those fearing for their lives: “Be of good Cheer, do not be afraid!” Why did Jesus say these words? What truth was He seeking to convey? It should translate into – the closer one is to Jesus, the greater should be one’s Joy and Cheer!

The Sermon on the Mount begins with a section known as the Beatitudes. A Commentary on this section has indicated this teaching could be known as: “The Be-Happy-Attitudes”! Others have translated the word “blessed” as “Happy”! The NLT renders the text (Matthew 5:3-12): “God blesses those who realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them. God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven.”

The self-deprecating and angry soul weighs down his/her mind and it soon affects the physical well-being. Such a person “drags” around and has a sense emptiness and uselessness. In time, the soul that is seldom Happy and rarely allows itself to enjoy God and His Creation will have mounting miseries of both mind and body. Such a person can and will impact others with such constant negativism. An old-time evangelist wrote the words to a Chorus: “Cheer Up! Ye saints of God, There’s nothing to worry about – Nothing to make you be afraid – Nothing to make you doubt! Remember! Jesus Never Fails! So why not trust him and shout – you’ll Be Happy you did tomorrow morning.”

Consider these things with me – and – let the Joy of the Lord be your Strength!

From My Perspective - - -

The idea of jocularity is understood by the definition, namely, “Characterized by joking; Given to joking.” Humor is part of our total being.  We have an emotional range that enables us to move from weeping to laughter depending on the circumstances surrounding one. And indeed, the Bible allows (Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 states some obvious contrasts in life): “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…” The thought behind this is to realize the balance between the range of emotions and experiences so ones actions fall within the perspective of the “time” for such an expression.

When one comes into Church Settings, there needs to be an understanding and refinement of what separates one thing from another. For instance, there is often some confusion regarding Joy on the one hand with Happiness on the other. In pausing to reflect on the possibilities here, one can readily determine that much of what we intend by “happiness” is dependent on the experiences and circumstances of the moment. If one receives an unexpected gift, it results in happiness; if one expects a gift – but doesn’t receive one – then it results in unhappiness. A simple way for a Church-Oriented person to understand this is basically – Happiness usually comes as a result of ones experience/circumstance, whereas Joy always comes as a result of relationship with Jesus Christ. John 15:1-11 gives as clear a statement about this relationship when Jesus summarizes in verse 11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

In Ephesians 5:3 through 7, the Apostle Paul establishes parameters and guidelines for the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. He couches it in terms of what is “…fitting for saints…” And then, he states there should be “…neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks...” In understanding and applying the Bible, it needs to be done with a gracious spirit. There are any number of people where one would come to the conclusion that if they ever smiled in Church their face might crack! By the same token, there are those who feel jokes and humor will hold the attention of the people and develop rapport. There needs to be great care exercised to remember one is coming to a Church – not a Comedy Club. We need to give people credit for their basic desire to gather with God’s people to Worship God – not to be entertained by men or musicians.

When people come to Church, they should find it to be a place where there is: (1) Reverence – we are coming to Worship The Holy God; (2) Prayer – we are to enter His gates with Thanksgiving, and His courts with Praise; (3) Singing – Psalms, Hymns, Spiritual Songs that focus upon The Holy and Sovereign God and His Grace, Mercy and Truth; (4) Fellowship – we have come to commune with God and to focus upon Him with those of like precious faith; (5) Instruction – we need to hear God’s Word accurately proclaimed so we can be exposed to “the whole counsel of God” – and can sense the Holy Spirit guiding us into more of God’s Truth and wonderful plan for our lives.  We don’t need artificial distractions! We don’t need an effort to make me feel good! We don’t need snacks and informality! We get that all week long in the places we frequent. The Church is sometimes referred to as being “The Sanctuary” – a Holy, Sacred Place of refuge and quiet. The Book of Psalms is a model for us to be always focused upon the Living God.

Consider these things with me and let us study and put forth the sincere effort to implement Hebrews 10:23 through 25, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near…”

From My Perspective - - -

Reality and Integrity are two worthy aspirations. Most people are weary of the façade approach to life and the inability to be straightforward in responses. If one asks a politician a “Yes” or “No” type question, it seldom is the response. There is usually several sentences shared and the point of the question is obscured by intentional vague rhetoric.

It is interesting to note in an editorial comment by Peggy Noonan in the Wall Street Journal Online for August 08, 2008 – Political Cycles – where she states: “…Mr. Obama got tagged the past month as something new, not the candidate from Men's Vogue but arrogant, aloof and somehow ethereal. There is no there there…The daring and exciting European trip was probably a wash, and possibly a mistake in the bridge-too-far sense…Mr. Obama consistently shows that he doesn't know what he doesn't know. It's a theme with his talented, confident staff. They don't know what they don't know either. Because they're young and they've never been in power and it takes time to know what you don't know. The presidential-type seal with OBAMA on it, the sometimes over-the-top rhetoric about healing the earth and parting the seas. They pick the biggest, showiest venue for the Berlin speech, the Brandenburg Gate, just like a president, not realizing people would think: Ya gotta earn that one, kid. Going to Europe was fine, but they should have gone in modestly, with a modest venue…”

Peggy Noonan is allowing that people are hungry for Reality and Integrity – not Public Relations success stories, or showy events, or rhetorical performances. While Ms. Noonan has been employed by Republicans over the years, her analysis seems balanced. Her summary statement would apply to all evenly, when she notes: “Does he have real greatness in him? Or is he, say, a product of the self-esteem campaign, that movement within the schools and homes of our country the past 25 years that says the way to get a winner is to tell the kid he's a winner every day? You can get some true people of achievement that way, because some people need a lot of reinforcement to rise. But you can also get, not to put too fine a point of it, empty suits that take on a normal shape only because they're so puffed up with ego.”   

The statement – “empty suits that take on a normal shape only because they're so puffed up with ego” – is an apt summary for all too many. If in the midst of personal ambition, we could get across a basic premise for life – DON’T FAKE IT! – it would bring refreshment to many because the road of Reality and Integrity would be viable once again. The impression that people have regarding a cross-section of professions in this country is negative. It was interesting to read on the Christian Post Website yesterday about the Jury Selection for the trial of Victoria Osteen, where a potential Juror echoed the thoughts of others when she said, “I don’t trust preachers – they all lie!” One must ask: Why do people feel this way? What has happened to cause their disillusionment and negativity? Who/What has proven to be their defining moment? Did they observe a “preacher(s)” more focused on self-adulation rather than focusing people upon Jesus Who they should love with all their heart, soul, strength and mind?

It is obvious that one’s life must be lived with a particular commitment that reflects the great benefit for one to implement Hebrews 12:1-3 (NLT), “since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith (Hebrews 11), let us strip off every weight that slows us down - the sin that so easily hinders our progress….We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish…We should be more disciplined in terms of how our lives are lived so we do not become a stumbling-block to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Our lives must direct the attention of all to Jesus Christ Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He IS the reality – He IS the Integrity for which people seek.

Consider these things with me – and let us walk Humbly and Modestly with the Lord God!